> Three Is Not Better Than One
>  by That Drunk Pony
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Chapter 1
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Three is not better than two



By: That Drunk Pony


It was a glorious morning in Ponyville. All the ponies were slowly getting up as the sun began its rise over the horizon. The start of a brand new day. The sun shone inside of each and every home to welcome everypony to a new start. The sunlight however had no effect on one pony who had been staying up late almost every night for the past few weeks reading an endless amount of books. She also pulled an all nighter the past night and now can't even be awoken by a shout of the Royal Canterlot voice.

Spike, however, didn't have the same luxury as Twilight and had to wake up early to clean all the messes that Twilight had generated. It seems like the only time she ever cleans is when Celestia or her friends come to visit. Truly a lazy pony, but I suppose messes are signs of genius. Anyhow Spike had started the chores of cleaning and reorganizing.

When Spike had finished the room just shined. Everything looked perfect, that was until a loud yell that said, "LOOK OUT!!!" followed by a cyan pegasus that came through the window. Luckily the window was open so the glass was not shattered, nevertheless the library was an even bigger mess than Spike had started. Most of the books were now on the floor and the couch was flipped over hiding a certain cyan pegasus.

Spike had his mouth to the floor in shock. All of his hard work was instantly undone and worse than before. Eyes full of rage he looked toward the flipped over couch, not even caring about the safety of the cyan pegasus that flew through. He lifted off the couch and saw that it was Rainbow Dash, unconscious and unmoving, who had messed up the library. He suspected it was her considering she has a knack for running into the library, it often makes him wonder if she intentionally runs into the library.

Spike then spoke softly to the pegasus as she laid their, "Hey, Rainbow Dash. Wakey wakey. It's time to get up now."

Rainbow Dash, who was still on the ground replied, "Nooo, give me five more minutes."

Spike then picked up a bucket and got a spoon. He softly placed it over Rainbow's head and starting banging on it as hard as he could saying, "WAKE UP" over and over.

The alarming noise instantly shocked Rainbow that she was flying around not knowing what was going on as Spike held on the bucket handle riding the pegasus. He eventually fell off after a few spins around the library and was dizzy. The pegasus now with eyes of fire, glared at the dragon in a heat of blazing fury. As she charged at Spike to tackle him to the floor, but since Spike was now older and more agile, just missed Spike and crashed into a bookshelf.

Spike was now on the ground laughing like crazy, until Rainbow had put the bucket on his head and started smashing it with the spoon. Spike nearly got a heart attack from that. They both glared at each other, but then started to smile and laugh at the whole situation.

After the laughing had subsided, Spike then got into a more serious tone and began to question Rainbow, "So Rainbow, what brings you to crash in my humble abode?"

Rainbow then remembered what happened, "Well I was doing this new trick and it went well. So well in fact that I came here to show you, but I tried doing it again and instead ran into the library... again."

Spike had a smirk on his face, but tried to hide it and continue, "Well you know I just fixed this place up and now look at it."

Rainbow looked around and saw the destruction of so many books. It was a mass murder of so many books, some might even say it was a genocide of literacy. She then turned her head at spike, ears down and ready to be scolded. As Spike was about to speak, however, Twilight came down the stairs only to see the destruction.

"SPIKE!" she yelled, not knowing of what happened, "You are supposed to clean and take care of the books! I told you the floor was not a bookshelf."

"But Twi-" Spike started, but was cut off.

"Spike. I wasn't finished yet. I mean look at this mess. All the books are on the floor." Twilight said, but then noticed the bucket on the floor how it looked like it was beaten and trampled mercilessly. "Spike. What happened to the bucket!? It looked as if it was run over by a stampede."

Before Spike could give his, anger filled, reply to Twilight, he was stopped by Rainbow. "Sorry Twilight. It wasn't Spike's fault, but my own. I crashed into the library and messed up the library that Spike cleaned." Spike then smiled at the pegasus until she continued. "The bucket thing however was totally on Spike. He beat it with a spoon to wake me up." She said as she pointed to Spike.

"That was your fault. I tried to peacefully wake you up. Besides, you were the one who beat it the second time much harder than I did." Spike said, trying to save himself.

Rainbow and Spike went back and forth with the blame until Twilight had magically levitated both of them. Her eyes said they were both in trouble. Spike and Rainbow both gulped at the punishment that was going to happen. "Spike and Rainbow, you both are gonna clean this mess and clean EVERY corner of this house." They both groaned at the idea and Twilight quickly reacted, "What was that!?"

They both looked down and replied, "Nothing, we will clean the place." They both started picking up books while Twilight nodded and went back upstairs. Spike then said, "You know this is all your fault right?" Rainbow gave a quick glare, and they both started working on opposite sides of the library.

As they were putting away the books, Rainbow was getting bored and tried to start a conversation, "You know Spike. I haven't seen Twilight this mad in a long time."

Spike then replied, "Well you know she is very serious about books. I wonder if she would save a book or me if she had to choose."

Rainbow then turned to Spike, "Don't even joke about that. You know that she cares about you more than anything. You both are very close to each other."

Spike was a little taken back by this, "Sorry. I know Twilight cares a lot for me. She would protect me from anything. Even though now I am bigger, stronger, and more mature than before she still treats me like a child."

Rainbow looks at Spike for the first time and really does notice he was much stronger, and more well toned, more muscular and ... she was drooling, until Spike said, "Rainbow you alright?"

She snapped back into her normal self, "Yeah yeah I'm alright" she said as she hastily put more books up so Spike couldn't see the blush on her face. She thought to herself 'What am I thinking? Why was I staring so much at Spike's body so much' She shook her head to get rid of any after thoughts.

Spike remembered he needed to go to Applejack's home to help around the barn, but was stuck here. He then noticed  that Rainbow seemed a bit distracted and tried a clever way to get out of doing extra chores. "Hey Rainbow, are you sure your alright?"

She replied again, "Yeah"

Spike then asked one more time, "Are you sure?" As Spike creeped towards the door

She then said, "Yeah"

Spike then changed the question, "Will you finish the work?" Spike was now opening the door.

She said, "Yeah... wait."

But before she could turn to look, Spike was already out the door and flying away to Applejack's barn. All Spike could here in the background was, "SPIKE I'M GONNA KILL YOU!!!" He just laughed the whole way to Applejacks barn.

Spike then began his descent to the barn, when he saw Applejack was already taking out the baskets where the apples would fall in. He then began sneaking slowly to Applejack until he was right behind her. "Good morning Applejack" Spike said in her ear, which caused her to jump and toss all the baskets as she bucked at Spike. Spike was now on the ground grabbing his stomach in pain.

Applejack then turned and saw Spike on the ground and her face was full of worry. "Spike! Are you okay?" she said as she held his head.

Spike only smiled and said, "Worth it" before passing out right there. Applejack just dropped his head and let it hit the ground. Spike then got up and said, "Oh come on. That was good acting."

Applejack then just stared down Spike, "Look are ya here to help or not. Today we are gonna be very busy and I cant have any distractions today."

Spike then replied, "Sorry, I won't make anymore dumb jokes. So whatcha need me to do today?"

"Well, since you have wings and all can you place these baskets around the area so we can start harvesting. You would probably cover more distance faster with those wings and all the training you do with Rainbow." Applejack had said while leaving a large amount of baskets in Spike's arms.

"Alright, I will be back in a jiffy." Spike hurried off placing 3 baskets around each tree. After he finished his stack he returned to the barn to get more and dropped them off. He was going really fast. Back and forth the earth pony watched Spike. She was gazing at him at his amazing speed and his determination to get the job done. She hadn't realize how long she stared until Spike flew to her saying, "So what's next."

Applejack shook her head and regained her demeanor. "Huh? You done already?" Applejack questioned Spike as he nodded. "Hmm well I don't suppose you want to try bucking today? This will be your first time and I suppose you cant really buck, but I am sure with your strength you can do it."

"Sure I can." Spike said as he cracked his knuckles. "I can probably do it faster than you." Spike challenged the earth pony.

Applejack just started laughing. "Yeah right. The day you beat me at applebucking is the day where Twilight will give up reading. You don't know the proper technique or where to even strike the--" but she was cut off by Spike as he quickly rushed past her as he struck three trees back to back dropping all of the apples from them into the baskets with one strike each.

Spike then asked, "Are you so sure I can't beat you?"

Applejack just sat there in a bit of amazement, but she then played it off "Well that was a bit impressive, but you aren't better than me."

Spike then provoked the orange pony "Well then how about you accept my challenge or are you chicken?"

Applejack never backed down from a challenge. She was gonna put that dragon in his place. "Alright Spike, you're on, but lets make it a bit more interesting. If you loose you will do me any favor I want for the rest of today."

Spike's confidence went down a little. "What do I get if I win?"

Applejack pondered for a second then she got an idea. "Well if you win then you can get a gallon of our Apple family's Special cider."

Spike's eyes then flared as he loved that cider nearly as much as Rainbow did. Well close enough to Rainbow at least. Spike then said with excitement and confidence, "Alright, lets get started."

Spike and Applejack stood at the barn entrance while Applejack's big brother was outside holding a flag. Applejack then restated the rules to Spike, "Alright so the rules are simple. The first to buck all of the trees and return back to the barn with all the apples wins. No cheatin and no outside help. We both have 50 trees each to cover. Are you ready Spike?"

Spike said while smiling, "I'm ready." He then thought to himself 'To wipe the floor with you.' "On your mark"

Applejack continued, "Get set"

They both then yelled, "GO!" and they both stormed off into the trees. Applejack was going faster than she ever did before. She hit one tree and then two. Soon she was already finished 15 trees and started taking the baskets back to the barn. When she returned the first set of baskets she looked over to Spike's side and saw that he didn't even come close to her progress. He doesn't even have a single basket inside the barn.

It was now 2 in the afternoon and Applejack was already at 40 trees finished. She saw or heard nothing from Spike's side. It made her a little worried, but she continued. As she finished the last tree, she then started bringing back the baskets back to the barn, but she dropped the basket. Spike was already inside sleeping with all of his baskets inside the barn. He awoke when he heard the apples fall.

"Oh hey there Applejack. Nice of you to join me. Did you just finish?" Spike said with a smile on his face that Applejack would have loved to buck off his face.

"H- ho- how did you beat me so fast? You weren't even close to me before." Applejack said still with her face in shock and disbelief.

"Well I just focused on getting the apples to the baskets at first until I finished all the trees. Then I quickly put the baskets here. Its much easier with claws to hold more." Spike explained. 

Lyra and Bonbon walked by until Lyra watched in the distance, Spike as he was showing off his claws to Applejack. It made her jealous and she questioned Bonbon, "See he gets fingers, why can't I get some."

Bonbon just looked at Lyra. She then put a hoof to her face while shaking her head and then continued walking. Lyra was confused by her reaction and followed behind saying, "Wait up."

Back to Applejack. She was shocked that she lost to Spike at something that she has been doing for years. She tried to deny his victory by saying "Beginner's luck. Anyways i'll go get your prize." Applejack angrily walked into the barn and came back with a small barrel full of the cider.

"Ooo I can just taste the cider already. This will also make a nice apology gift for a certain pony." Spike said as he grabbed it with one claw. He then petted Applejack, which caused her to blush. "Well AJ, its been fun, but i have to go to my next appointment. I will see ya later." He then flew off, but before he sped away, he turned and waved good-bye to Applejack.

Spike then Sped off to his next destination near Ghastly Gorge to meet Rainbow for their regular flight lessons. Spike was preparing for the wrath of Rainbow Dash after ditching her at the library, but it was her fault for ruining the library. Spike kept debating about what happened in his head until the moment of truth came.

Spike heard from a far distance that gradually came closer, "SPIIIIIKE!!!! YOU ARE SO DEAD." Spike thought to run, but decided against it as he had a secret weapon.

As Rainbow drew closer he finally said, "Rainbow Dash!" She stopped nearly one meter from him. She was still breathing hard and angrily she stared at the dragon. He then offered to her the barrel.

"What is this?" Rainbow asked still angry obviously.

"It is my peace offering. Some of the Apple family Special Cider." Spike said in a stance that most people would think he were proposing to the pegasus, but that didn't register in her mind for once she heard "Apple family" and "Cider". She was jumping around like crazy at that moment saying "YES."

If anypony was watching, they would have thought there would be a wedding soon. Luckily for them none were watching... from what they know.

Rainbow and Spike then opened the barrel and began sharing the drink. First Rainbow took a sip and then Spike. As Spike took a sip she was thinking 'an indirect kiss' and her face blushed but she shook it off and just drank as much as she could and gave the rest to Spike. 

Spike said in a refreshed way, "There is nothing better than the Cider of the Apple family. They make the best in the world."

Rainbow continued, "Yeah. Well we should get started then. We have a lot of work today." She then bucked the dragon. "Also that is payback."

Spike fell over and glared back at rainbow who was giggling. 'Well it would probably have been worse if she was still angry.' Spike thought to himself as he got up and ready for the lesson.

After training with Dash the whole day they said their good-byes. Rainbow went to her home and Spike left for the library. When he got home it was already night and Twilight was passed out on a mountain of books. "Seriously why was she so upset when we messed up the place." He picked up Twilight and took her to her bed. He then went downstairs to clean as much of it as he could before heading to bed.

As he laid on the couch, he looked out the window and saw Canterlot. Before he went to bed he said "I wonder how Rarity is doing in Canterlot." He went to sleep with this thought.

-At Ponyville Train Station-

"It has been so long since I have been in Ponyville. I wonder how everypony is doing" a white unicorn with a beautifully done purple mane said to herself.
> Chapter 2: Enter Rarity
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------



Chapter 2: Enter Rarity


Spike has pleasant dreams of ice cream. An endless sea of Ice cream in shapes of small hills filled with Gem Sprinkles. The frozen wonderland was beautiful. He dived into the first ice cream only to collide with the first gem head first. He passed out in his own dream if that were even possible. When he woke he heard some noises of ponies who were playing around in the wonderland.

It was Pinkie on top of a giant pony shaped Ice cream with Twilight and the rest at the bottom of the colossal structure having a snow ball fight with ice cream. Rainbow snuck behind Pinkie with a dark cloud. Pinkie was too busy claiming she was the queen of the Ice cream land to notice and was scared her off with a loud crackling thunder. The Pegasus had now claimed that she was the new queen.

Twilight then came to Spike with a hoof out, “Spike, wanna join in the fun?”

Applejack then added, “Yeah, lets show the new ‘Queen’ who is the real boss around these parts.”

Spike was excited to hear the invitation and replied with a grin, “Sure, I’d love to join.” Spike looked down and grabbed the mare’s hoof. Just as Spike took the hoof, however, he noticed the coat was not Twilight’s. It had changed to white. Her mane was now a pure different shade of purple. It was Rarity. He stopped for a quick second until he saw the other five stood behind her with smiling faces. It reassured him and he took her hoof once again.

When he got up, Rainbow Dash had thrown an ice cream ball and said, “Spike, think fast.”, but it was too late. BLAM!

Spike then woke on the floor groggy and in a small puddle of drool, which is expected considering how Spike had such a delicious dream. He was dazed, but then started hearing some voices coming from just outside the library. He was still wobbly from falling off the couch, but was still conscious enough to recognize Twilight’s voice through the door.

“I am worried more about how Spike will react than her returning. I hope he doesn’t go crazy again or worse.” Twilight said. Once Spike heard his name, he immediately was investigating and eavesdropping on the conversation.

“It worries me too, but it’s not like we can exactly keep it a secret from him. I just hope Spike will be alright. I myself was surprised to see her walking in town.” He heard from another voice that he couldn’t make out too well.

Spike then began to ponder, ‘Who were they talking about? Who is that pony with Twilight? Why does it concern me?’. He then started listening in again.

“Well if anything happens to Spike, I will be sure to help him as best I can.” He heard the mysterious Pony once again.

“I wish I could be there for Spike if anything goes wrong, but I have to leave to Canterlot once more. I wish I could stay here to protect him. I am putting my trust in you--”, but before Twilight could say the name of the mysterious pony a loud obnoxious pony which was obviously Pinkie Pie came.

“Hey girls! You should get ready for the welcoming party for Rarity!” the Pink one said.

The look on Spike’s face went from curiosity to a devastating and shock face. ‘Did she really say Rarity? Am I still delusional from the dream?’. Spike could not comprehend it and was going on and on in disbelief and denial.

“Well, Spike is going to have to face her sooner or later. I guess at the party he will have the support of his friends.” Twilight said. All the alarms in Spike’s head rang. “I guess I will go wake him up and get him ready. He may have matured, but he is still a baby when it comes to cleanliness.”

Spike didn’t have time to react to Twilight’s comment with all that was going on in his head. He thought about escaping but remembered that there was only the main door to escape from. Then he remembered the upstairs balcony. ‘Yeah I can fly out of here’, but as Spike started to walk to the stairs, Twilight had entered.

“Oh Spike! Your up. We have a party to get ready for. It’s for a special friend of ours. A homecoming party.” He was caught. He couldn’t run now. Twilight would have stopped him from getting even to the borders of Ponyville. After the last time he ran away, she put a tracking spell on him so she wouldn’t loose him and with her teleporting, she could easily find him.

Spike was defeated and now is going to be forced to face the music. Even he did not know how he would react to Rarity’s return. He wanted to tell Twilight that he didn’t want to see her, but that would reveal he was eavesdropping and he didn’t want to get punished. He just kept quiet and replied to Twilight, “Okay.” and began to get ready for the impending party.

The walk to the party was like walking on glass. It hurt each step he took. The walk was silent and he made no eye contact to any pony. Not even to Twilight who tried to start small conversations even though it was clear on her face that she was worried as well. The questions were flaring in his head ‘Why is she here? Why now?”. Then they stopped at Sugarcube Corner, where the party was planned at.

Spike looked at Twilight and noticed she wasn’t even attempting to open the door. He decided to take charge since she wouldn’t and he didn’t want her to see that he knew. He opened the door while having a fake smile that was so well done that no pony could have ever noticed.

Spike then said, “Hi everypony!” As he said it, his eyes quickly glanced around to see if Rarity really was there, but there was no sign of her. He sighed a deep relief in his mind as he only saw Applejack, Pinkie, and Rainbow.

“Hiya Spike, cheerful as ever I see” the happy pink pony happily replied as she poured a drink for him. “Your still a little early. Fluttershy is coming with--”, but she was stopped by Applejack who quickly covered her mouth.

Applejack then pulled her to the side and whispered, “Are you crazy!?”. As Pinkie was about to reply, Applejack put a hoof on her mouth expecting her to say ‘No, I’m Pinkie’ “Don’t answer that. Did you forget what we talked about already!?”

Rainbow tried to distract Spike while Applejack was giving Pinkie a stern talking to. “So Spike, did you see the Wonderbolts race last night?”

Spike then put a claw on his face. “No. I forgot all about it.”

“Well Spike, I still have it saved on PVR” Rainbow said to the dragon to make him forget his worry of the races. “Maybe we can watch it later or something.”

Spike was a big fan of the Wonderbolts, but no one was a bigger fan than Rainbow herself. “Really!? Thanks so much!”. Rainbow’s cheeks blushed as she just thought how this was probably the first time she invited him to her home.

Spike then went to the punch bowl and got a drink. As he took his first gulp of the velvet red punch, he heard Fluttershy’s voice “H- Hi everypony”.

Spike already knew what that meant. Twilight, Applejack, and Rainbow all said “Surprise!” only to be followed by a late Pinkie “SURPRISE! Oh darn it.”

“Why thank you. I missed you all so much” Rarity said with her usual grace. Spike started choking on the punch in the background. As he finished his coughing he looked to see Rarity.

Nothing really seemed much different about her. Her mane was the same as before. She still had her snow white fur and graceful look about her, but Spike noticed something. He didn’t feel all that different. He didn’t feel the need to impress her, nor did he feel infatuated in her as he was in the past. Maybe it was just a small crush in his past. With this, he felt a bit more confident.

Spike thought to himself ‘Maybe I really have gotten over her. I guess that means I can put what happened in the past behind me now.’ Spike then walked to Rarity who was talking to Twilight. The room got quiet as all eyes were on Spike and Rarity who were finally face to face. Well Rarity now had to look up at the dragon, but only slightly.

Spike then started, “Welcome back Rarity.”

Rarity then replied “Thank you.”

The entire room was in shock. Nothing happened. It was like so much suspense for nothing. Rainbow, Twilight, and Applejack were all relived a bit, but Pinkie was kind of hoping for a little more. In Pinkie’s head it was ‘OH COME ON!’ similar to Sweetie Belle.

Spike then continued, “Well lets enjoy the party.”

The party then went on without worry. They played many party games. It seems like every party, Pinkie always had some new games to play to never let her party guests be bored. This time she had a dunk booth and put Twilight in the chair first. Rarity went first and just missed the target. Fluttershy was after and threw it, but didn’t put enough power into it. It fell to the ground before even getting halfway to the target.

Then it came to Spike’s turn. Twilight wasn’t scared of the first two, but when Spike was up, things changed. Spike still remembers Twilight accusing him of making the mess in the library. “So Twilight, are ya feeling lucky” Spike said while grinning.

“Spike, lets be reasonable.” Twilight pleaded.

“As I recall, you blamed me for wrecking the library. Say your sorry.” Spike could only smile as he said it.

Twilight got upset and apologetic, “I’m sorry Spike. I won’t accuse you or any pony ever again”

Spike wasn’t satisfied. He then pulled back his arm and took aim. “Sorry Twilight, but your going down.”

Twilight then got angry, “Spike! I said I was sorry. What more do you want?”, but seems as though her messages weren’t getting through to him. “Spike. If you throw that--”, but she was cut off by Spike who threw the ball and hit the target, sinking Twilight in the dunk chamber.

When Twilight got out of the tank, soaked in water, she was getting ready to charge, but was stopped by Pinkie. “Twilight calm down. It’s just a game. Besides it’s his turn.” The idea of Twilight getting revenge this early satisfied her.

Spike sat where Twilight was sitting. First to throw was Pinkie. She powered her hoof and threw, but clearly missed at heard something break in the background. “Oopsie” was all she said as she went to whatever broke.

Now it was Rainbow’s turn. The competitive and aggressive side of the pegasus took over. Spike was a little taken back by it. Rainbow was good at games like this so he put his claws together and prayed to Celestia. “Well Spike. It was nice knowing ya.” She threw as hard as she could, but she managed to miss worse than Pinkie. Her ball went clean out the open window.

Spike could only laugh at how bad it was. Rainbow pouted and went to the back of the line. Applejack said while laughing, “Woo Rainbow. You couldn’t hit the broad side of a barn with that throw.” 

Next up was Applejack. Spike’s laughter was now cut short as Applejack was probably better at this game than anypony. “Sorry Spike, but your luck has just ran out.” She powered her hoof and took aim.

Right when she was about to throw, Rainbow shouted “DON’T MESS UP!” and Applejack missed her shot and actually hit Spike in the chest. Rainbow then laughed at Applejack who was chasing her yelling “Consarn it Rainbow! You messed up my throw!”

Twilight then asked Spike, “Spike. Are you alright?” Spike nodded while still holding where Applejack had got him. “Well then get ready to swim!”. It was now Twilight’s turn and revenge was all over her eyes. Spike knew pleaded meant nothing so he braced for it once again. He closed his eyes so he wouldn’t see. All he heard was a whoosh sound wiz by his head. He felt the wind from the ball.

“Jeez, Twilight. Are you trying to kill me?” Spike said with a quick fury.

“Sorry! That was by accident.” Twilight said while still snickering. It really was an accident however.

Now Rarity was up. Things got serious once again. Rarity was now there last hope in taking down the overconfident dragon. Everypony started cheering for Rarity. “Come on Rare. You got this.”

With eyes full of determination to not let her friends down she got ready once again. Besides Spike, she was the closest to the target, excluding Applejack who was of course cheated out of her shot. She got ready and took aim. Spike, however, didn’t seem at all scared.

Spike said with a smug look “Good luck Rarity!”. She threw the ball and Spike’s eyes widened as he saw it look as if it was going to hit. In slow motion he was thinking to himself, ‘Nooooo’.

The ball grazed the top of the target. There wasn’t enough force for the target to dunk Spike. He was safe from the water. “I WIN” Spike said with so much excitement. He felt triumphant for the first time in a long time.

Twilight then cut his victory short. “Wrong Spike. There is still one pony who hasn’t gone yet.”

Spike with a confused look. “Who?”

Twilight then narrowed her eyes. “Fluttershy.”

Spike was just laughing even harder. Harder than the element of laughter ever could. Even all five of the other ponies were not confident either about Fluttershy being the last hope.

Fluttershy then took position, but looked so scared as all the pressure was on her.

“It’s okay sugarcube. You don’t have to do this.” Applejack said to calm Fluttershy.

Rainbow added in her raspy voice, “Yeah, we will get him next time.”

Spike then added in a caring way, “Yeah, its alright. You don’t have to. I will let you choose someone to throw for you.”

But Fluttershy wouldn’t stand down. “No. I have to do this. For everypony!” The fire in her was a bit shocking to everyone. Spike still didn’t seem to phased by it. He felt his victory was set in stone now.

Spike opened his mouth to say “Good luck”, but was instantly denied. Fluttershy threw the ball at the target right in the middle with such great force. She shattered the target completely and Spike sank. The fact that Spike sank was great, but his face afterwards was priceless. Everypony was just shocked.

They all cheered for Fluttershy. Spike then crawled out of the tank soaked. He walked to Fluttershy who at first was happy, but then got quiet. She then saw the smile on Spike’s face and he held out a hand.

“Congratulations, it was a good game” was all he said. She then put out her hoof and shook his claw with a smile.

The party continued well into the evening. The sun was already setting and now they were saying there goodbyes to each other. Spike was then pulled out to the side by Rarity. “Um, Spike can you come help me tomorrow? I still have a lot to unpack and I need help.”

Rainbow took quick notice of Spike and Rarity chatting and began to eavesdrop.

“Sure Rarity. I don’t have anything really planned tomorrow.” Spike said with a smile. Rarity noticed something different. Spike then ran out following behind Twilight.

Rainbow was thinking to herself ‘Was she trying to use Spike again?’ Rainbow would not stand for it and began planning for tomorrow.

As Rarity walked home she was wondering what was different. She obviously knew he physically changed, but something about how personally acted. It was as if she was just another pony to friend to him. She felt something when she thought about it. She tried to play it off as she entered her home.

Twilight had then began to question Spike, “Spike. I am surprised at how you reacted today at Rarity. We were all worried for you. How was it?”

Spike answered with an honest truth, “Well I kind of overheard you when you were talking outside the library. I was trying to escape cause I didn’t know how I would react, but when I saw her I guess it wasn’t as scary with everyone being there.” Twilight smiled when she heard that until Spike continued “That party was actually much more fun that I thought. Especially when I got you good.” 

Twilight gave a glare, but then started to laugh and Spike soon followed in laughter. “Yeah, but the expression on your face after Fluttershy broke the target was even better.” They both laughed all the way to the library. “Well it’s time to rest.” Spike got on the couch and Twilight said in a soft voice, “Good night my child.” and gave a small kiss on his forehead. She then trotted to her room to go to bed herself. Twilight was now sure that Spike would be fine as she left for Canterlot tomorrow.

Morning has come and Spike is having a dream of being the hero once again. He wakes up by the cracks of light that shines through the curtains of the windows. Spike then rubs his eyes and gets off the couch to get ready for his daily cleaning duties. He picks up a few books and notices that some are a few are missing. He doesn’t mind it so much now and continues to the next room. 

He finally got to Twilight’s bedroom and as he entered, he noticed that Twilight was missing. Before he could really think on it he found a note that was signed off to him.

To Spike

Sorry for not telling you sooner, but I have to go to Canterlot for a few days because the Princess needed my assistance. I was worried about leaving you alone, but I think you’re old enough to handle it. If your wondering how I wrote this, I used magic hehe. Remember Spike to do your chores and don’t bother anypony. If I so hear that you did anything wrong, you are going to get it. Also keep the pets fed. Well I better wrap this up before I start rambling on. So I will see you in about a week or two.

Sincerely,
Twilight Sparkle

“Jeez Twi, even your notes are lectures.” Spike said and sighed. Then Spike put his claws together and rubbed them deviously. “Well Spike, seems like you got vacation time.” After he said that Spike remembered a little quote from the note. ‘If I so hear that you did anything wrong, you are going to get it.’ “Right, I forgot about that. Well what she doesn’t know won’t hurt her.”

Spike then continued to clean the house until he remembered that he had to go to Rarity’s place to assist her again. He was glad he didn’t have to help at the farm today so he wasn’t pressed for time. He got himself ready for the day ahead and started heading toward Rarity’s boutique, however he was stopped by a curious Rainbow Dash.

“Hey Spike!” Rainbow Dash had said with in an overly happy way.

Spike was a little caught off guard. “Oh hey Rainbow, everything alright?”

“Of course everything is alright. I am just happy to see my pal Spike. I was hoping to come by and visit since it is your day off so we could have fun.” Rainbow Dash replied.

“Sorry Rainbow, but I already made plans to help somepony already.” Spike said as he continued to head towards Rarity’s home.

Rainbow then flew at his speed slowly and began questioning him. “Who is it? Where are you going? Does it have to do with any heavy lifting? Can I join you?”

Spike answered, “In order, it’s Rarity, I am going to her boutique, knowing Rarity’s luggage it may be heavy lifting, and if you want to.”

Rainbow Dash paused when she heard that it was Rarity for a second. “You’re going to go help Rarity?”

Spike simply replied “Yep.”

“But are you sure? I don’t want to have to dig you out again.” Rainbow said as a warning.

Spike tried to reassure her by saying, “Don’t worry. I was scared at first, but after meeting her I feel like she is just my friend and don’t worry about Rarity replacing our fun time. Just think of it as another pony that I want to help.”

“I’m not worried about Rarity, replacing me” Rainbow said with a slight blush.

“Well do you still join in then?” Spike asked as they neared the boutique.

“Uh.” was all Rainbow could say as she thought to herself ‘I don’t want to set foot in that boutique, but I have to make sure Spike will really be alright.’ “Alright!” she said excitedly.

Spike thought to himself as they stopped right outside the boutique. ‘I think something is seriously wrong with Rainbow today. She hardly ever seems excited to do work. What’s she planning?’ Spike then asked before he knocked, “Are you sure that you’re alright?”

Rainbow nodded with a seemingly fake smile. Spike decided to overlook it and knocked on Rarity’s door. They both heard from inside. “Come in.” As they opened the door, they saw Rarity already using her magic to arrange a few things. “I am glad you got here Spike. Can you help put all the mirrors and ponnequins around the display area?” She asked.

“Sure Rarity.” Spike said getting straight to work.

Rarity then looked toward Spike and noticed that Rainbow was there. “Rainbow Dash? Why are you here?”

Before Rainbow could say anything, Spike said, “She wanted to join in so she is going to help as well.” Rainbow already regrets asking to join.

“Well then, Rainbow can you move the gems in the chests and try to organize each kind of gem in each chest?” Rarity said as she continued what she was doing.

“Alright.” Rainbow said with a bit of an irritated way.

As they fixed up Rarity’s shop, Rainbow noticed something odd. Spike was doing his work fine and not glancing at Rarity like he usually did in the past. That was expected, but what really got Rainbow was when she noticed Rarity giving Spike a couple of glances instead. She thought she was just imagining things, but it was still nudging at her.

Rarity then out of nowhere screamed. “Rainbow Dash! What are you doing!?”

Rainbow looked down at the gems and noticed that a few were mixed up. “Oops”

Rarity then said in a worried tone “Oops? You have to organize them, not just dump them in!”

Rainbow then got angry “What? It’s just a simple mistake. I was just a little distracted.”

Rarity then continued “No I will fix your mistake. Just go.”

Rainbow steamed up and blurted out “Why are you trying to get me out so bad!? Are you just gonna hurt Spike as soon as I turn my back!?”

Rarity then gave a confused look, but then it quickly turned to her own rage. Spike however stopped the verbal war from escalating by getting in between both. “Calm down ladies. Look how about Rarity goes and finishes the upstairs while Rainbow and I finish down here. We will go after we are done.”

They both were still angry, but agreed and Rarity stormed off upstairs while Rainbow pouted. Spike then put his claw on Rainbow’s shoulder “Hey Rainbow Dash. You alright?”

“No.” Rainbow said and then paused. She turned to Spike with her head down to hide her teary face. “I think I should go.” Before she took off however, Spike grabbed her hoof. “Let go Spike.” Rainbow demanded.

Suddenly he pulled her and gave her a hug. He then whispered into her ear, “I’m not gonna let my good friend be sad. Thank you for worrying about me.” Spike then gently let her down as she kept her head down this time hiding a her blushing face. Spike then put a claw on her chin and rose her head up. “You should look up instead of hanging your head.”

Rainbow was just at a lost of words. Her body was almost overheating from the situation as she stared into his eyes. Her legs were feeling weak and she almost felt as if she was flying without using her wings.

Just then Rarity said from the upper floor, “Spike, can you come help me move my bed and dresser?”

Spike then replied, “Yeah, give me a sec.” He then turned to Rainbow who was looking odd to him. He then put his forehead on hers. “Jeez you’re burning up. I think you should go home and rest before you get sick.”

“But Spike” Rainbow said before she was cut off.

“Not another word. Go home and rest. I will come and check on you later after I finish.” Spike said with a smile on his face.

Rainbow couldn’t say no to him. She tried to regain her embarrassing moment and answered Spike “Alright, I was getting tired anyways. I’ll see you later” Rainbow said as she Dashed away.

Spike then continued to help Rarity until the horizon started turning yellowish and orange. Rarity had asked him to do many tasks throughout the day. Spike was exhausted after all of that work. After he put down the last of the ponnequins, he then told Rarity “Alright, Rarity I’m all done. Is there anything else you need?”

Rarity came downstairs wearing a well made white dress that had purple Amethysts all around the dress and a wonderful pattern that all complimented her natural colors. She then began, “Spike, thank you so much for being so helpful. I kind of missed your assistance. It makes me happy that you’re able to help me again.”

Spike then replied, “Well Rarity, I also help other ponies so be mindful when you schedule things. I have been getting busier and busier recently for my strength and claws. It gets tiring often, but I am glad to do it.”

“Oh Spike, well how can I at least make it up to you tonight for helping so much.” Rarity asked while posing in front of a mirror. She looked at the mirror’s reflection to Spike rather than herself. Spike however didn’t even seem to be mesmerized by her appearance. It almost feels like he was treating her like a normal pony or just another friend.

“It’s fine. I need to see Rainbow Dash anyways. She seemed a little sick and I want to make sure everything is alright.” Spike said smiling. He then turned around and tried to head for the door, but was stopped by Rarity.

“Spike! What do you think of this dress?” Rarity said giving a more seductive pose.

Spike said, “It looks nice. It really matches your colors.”

Rarity thought to herself, ‘It looks nice!? Is that all he can say? He used to go on and on whenever I wore anything. Why am I getting so worked up anyway? I don’t usually go fishing for compliments.

Spike then said as he walked out the door, “See ya later Rarity.” Spike then spread his wings to get ready for flight.

Rarity tried to stop him again, but he already took off before she could stop him. She put her hoof to her chest as if she was struck by a sharp nail through it.

Spike then began to think about all that happened as he flew to Rainbow’s home in cloud. He was confused beyond belief. He had no idea how to respond to anything that happened. First Rainbow who was trying really hard to do something with him, then the fighting between both of them over something so simple, then how Rainbow’s random high temperature, and finally Rarity who was acting weird as he left. 

Today has just been full of weird things. Spike just thought that maybe it was something in the air or they were at that time. Whatever it was, it wouldn’t bother Spike too much. He just continued to Rainbow’s place. As he arrived, he saw Rainbow already waiting on the edge of her home as if she had been waiting for awhile.

“Hi Rainbow.” Spike greeted.

Rainbow shook her head and then replied, “Oh hey Spike. All done?”

“Yeah, It was really exhausting.” Spike said sighing.

“Well Rarity does carry a lot of junk. Hard to believe that she calls those ‘Necessities’.” Rainbow and Spike then shared a good laugh together.

Spike then goes to sit next to her. “So Rainbow, are you feeling better?”

Rainbow replied, “Well I wasn’t sick.”

Spike then asked, “Well why were you on fire then and your face was getting a little red too.”

Rainbow blushed once again, “Well maybe I was a little sick, but I am all better now.” Rainbow then flew off and did a few flips and tricks to show how good in health she was. “See I’m all better.”

“Alright, alright. Don’t go showing off.” Spike said reassured. “Well now what should we do? We can’t really do much training since most of the day is over.” Spike’s stomach started grumbling.

Rainbow started laughing until her own stomach started growling. They both then started laughing. “Alright well I guess we should go get something to eat. Maybe at Sugarcube Corner.” Rainbow suggested.

“Alright. At least they bake gemstone cupcakes for me.” He happily said. He then said quickly as he took off, “Race ya there!”

Rainbow didn’t hesitate and immediately dashed after him saying “You’re on!”
> Chapter 3: Dreaming Up A Storm
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Chapter 3: Dreaming Up A Storm


Spike wakes up under some tilted over table that had half eaten cupcakes and icing next to it. He looked around and saw that he was inside Sugarcube Corner. Before he had a chance to really think about what happened, he grabbed his head from what felt like a hangover. He looked to his left and saw Rainbow was clinging on to him. 

She then slowly began to wake up herself and looked around. She had not even noticed she was still clinging on to Spike until she looked up. Spike and Rainbow’s faces got red and they soon separated.

Spike then asked the question, “What happened last night?

“I don’t know darling.” Rainbow said with a shrug.

“Hmm well something must have… wait did you call me darling?” Spike’s face went from a confused one to a shocked face.

“Of course. We are married” Rainbow said happily like it were a fact.

‘Married!?...’ Spike’s face was one of fear.

“Yeah this was our anniversary party” She says with a big smile on her face.

‘Anniversary!?…’ Spike was losing it in his head.

“I wanted to surprise you at the party, but I guess we just partied too much. Spike I am carrying your child.”

“MY WHAT!?” Spike’s reaction was priceless.

Spike then awoke again, this time on Twilight’s bed back at the Library. “Oh it was just a dream. One crazy dream.” Spike first noticed something on his upper right arm. There was a tattoo on it. It was a heart with the name Rarity in it.

He then turned to his left to see that there was another pony in the bed. He first suspected Twilight, but she was supposed to be away. Who could it be? He slowly lifted the covers. All that was in his mind was that it would be Rainbow Dash, but what he saw shocked him even more. ‘RARITY!?’ Spike shouted in his head. He almost passed out right then and there.

He held on and tried to get out of the bed without waking her, but she was holding on tightly to his left arm and her hind legs wrapped around his left leg. It seemed like an impossible escape. It was still night, but he could see that the dawn was slowly approaching. He did his best to wiggle and slowly escape her grasp, that by the time the sun began to rise he had already escaped her grasp. Now all that remained was that he sneak out of the bed and get out of there.

He took his first step and made a loud creak. Each step after sounded even louder as he approached the door. When he grabbed the door he felt something on his back. The shock caused him to yell loudly in horror. He then looked behind him and saw that it was Rarity grabbing onto his back.

She then said in a sad voice, “Don’t go.” Spike looked at her face and there were tears running out her eyes.

Spike had no idea what was going on, but his instinct to try and make ponies feel better kicked in. “I wasn’t leaving forever. I was just... going to the bathroom. I didn’t want to disturb you in your sleep.”

“Oh, well come back soon then darling.” Rarity said smiling, but the tears were still on her face.

‘Darling... no way.’ Spike thought to himself with such a stressful look. He then rushed to the bathroom and just sat down to think. ‘What happened last night!? Why is she calling me darling!? Don’t tell me I got married to Rarity. This has to be some crazy dream. Why do I have her named tattooed to my arm!? Twilight is going to KILL ME when she finds out about that! Come on Spike you just need to wake up. Come on, WAKE UP!”

And Spike finds himself awake at Sugarcube Corner again, but this time he is outside and deep into the ground. He looks behind him at what looks like a trench dug by him. He looks up and sees Rainbow’s face, but can’t hear a sound she is saying. It slowly starts to come back to him. He tried to fly past Rainbow when she made her legendary Sonic Rainboom. He was close to mimicking it, but messed up and crashed into the ground.

He slowly regains his ability to hear as Rainbow is crying over his head. “Well I never thought I’d see the day that you cried so much.”

“SPIKE! You’re ok!” Rainbow excitedly reacted, but then it took her a second to process what he said and she then bucked him on his arm. “That was for scaring me”

“OW!” Spike yelled. ‘I guess I kind of deserved that’. Spike then asked, “How long was I out for anyways.”

“About an hour now. Pinkie went to the hospital to get help. I wonder what’s taking her so long.”

“Why didn’t you go? You are clearly the fastest pony ever.”

“Well, um...” Rainbow’s face started blushing, but she tried to hide it by turning around. “Well I felt it was my fault that you were in that ditch so I wanted to make sure you were alright. I felt obligated to.”

“Obligated? Maybe you are turning into an egghead.”

“Hey!”

“Well come on. We still haven’t got our meal yet.”

“Are you even ok to do anything. That was a hard crash and I know a lot about bad crashes.”

“I bet you do.” Spike chuckled. Rainbow was about to buck him again, but stopped as Spike continued, “I am fine. Remember I got thick scales. Besides the dreams I had while I was knocked out were much scarier.”

The idea of scary dreams got Rainbow curious. “What kind of dreams are we talking about here?”

“Uh well um... just some scary impossible stuff.” Spike said trying to be vague and to avoid answering.

Instead however, he just poked her curiosity and peaked her interests. “That sounds exciting. You should tell me.”

“I’d rather not” Spike said, fearing since those dreams weren’t exactly as exciting as she was thinking.

Rainbow tried to provoke Spike. “What are you scared? Is it like a fear you have that you’re too scared to share?”

Spike was a bit angry at being called scared by Rainbow, but let it slide cause he kind of was scared at her reaction. “Lets just drop it. I am hungry and I really don’t want to talk about dreams on an empty stomach.”

Before Rainbow could respond her stomach growled again. “Fine lets go eat, but afterwords you will tell me about those dreams.”

Spike was worried cause when something has Rainbow’s interest, she can become very persistent. He would have to distract her while they ate. Before they entered Pinkie came back with the entire staff from the hospital.

Pinkie was yelling, “EVERYPONY CALM DOWN! WE ARE HERE FOR THE DRAGON!” She then started putting police barriers around and put on her detective hat. “Okay, Private Eye Pinkie is on the case.” She then turned to Spike who was totally confused and asked, “So Spike. Who did this to you!?”

Spike answered, “I messed up? So me I guess?”

Pinkie then continues, “Aha, so you admit to hurting Spike. I knew it. Take him in boys.”

The head doctor said, “We aren’t the police miss Pie. We are here just to check on what happened. Clearly this wasn’t as severe as you said. He is perfectly fine. Lets go back everypony.”

The nurses and doctor headed back to the hospital. Spike and Rainbow were a bit confused at what Pinkie was going on about, but that distraction seemed to have made Rainbow forget so Spike was thankful to Pinkie. 

After they finished their meal, Rainbow and Spike were slurping on milkshakes. Rainbow finished hers really fast and started getting brain freeze. Spike was laughing at her face, but his laugh didn’t last too long. Rainbow asked, “So Spike, how about those dreams?”

“You’re not gonna let that go are you?” Spike replied.”

“Of course not. I really wanna know. So tell me or I will have your milkshake.”

“Yeah like you’re going to get my milkshake.”

Rainbow then took out her straw and put it in his milkshake and started drinking it. Spike tried to pull it away from her but she wasn’t letting go. All of his precious milkshake was being taken by the vacuum that is Rainbow Dash so he tried to drink as much of it as he could from his own straw. They glared at each other, eye to eye.

What happened next was only to be expected. A quick yell came out of no where and stopped the two. As they turned to look rainbow got another brain freeze and started grabbing her head again while wobbling her head to shake it off. Spike saw that it was Rarity.

Spike quickly imagined what it looked like they were doing. “Rarity, that wasn’t what it looked like. She was stealing my shake! I swear!”

Pinkie then intervened before it escalated any further noticing how events were turning. “It’s true. Rainbow was being a meanie pants and tried to take Spike’s shake so he would talk about some secret.”

Rainbow finally got her head back in order while listening to the whole thing. She then thought to herself ‘Well Spike was quick to react. Why is Rarity even here anyways? I was hoping to get some lone time with Spike... not that I like him or anything. He just owed me this.’

Rarity then let out a sigh. Without Spike explaining and Pinkie’s witness support, she may have taken it the wrong way. ‘So Spike and Rainbow were just having fun as usual.’ she reassured herself in her head. “So Spike and Rainbow Dash, what brings you here anyways and what is this secret that Pinkie was talking about.”

Rainbow then added, “Yeah Spike, tell us about that dream of yours before we got here.”

Spike was put into a corner. What was he to do? Tell the truth and make it even more awkward since both mares were present? Avoiding it doesn’t seem to be an option anymore and there doesn’t seem to be a chance that another distraction will appear. ‘Curse you Pinkie for reminding Rainbow and now even peaked Rarity’s interests.’

Rainbow and Rarity then said, “Well Spike, we are waiting.”

Now other random ponies were listening in on this situation, but they try to hide it. Spike was now stuck between a rock and a hard place. He just wish he could wake up from this nightmare, but this was as real as it was going to get. ‘Or was it’ Spike thought. He then kept telling himself in his head it was a dream and he needed to wake up in his head, but nothing. That was reality and he was doomed.

Just then his luck changed. Applejack came in. “Hey Rarity, Pinkie, and Rainbow. Oh and hi Spike. I almost didn’t see you with all them mares surrounding you.” Rarity and Rainbow backed up a bit when they realized that. Applejack then continued, “I am just messin with y’all. Say Spike can you help me out with taking some sweets back to my farm. It might be too much for me to carry all alone and you owe me.” She went to the front desk to get 2 boxes from Mrs. Cake.

Spike was thinking to himself again, ‘What could I possibly owe her?’ He then noticed that she winked when the others weren’t looking and realized she was saving him. “Oh of course.” Spike then quickly got up and rushed to her Applejack’s side. “Well sorry ladies, but I am needed. I’ll see you later.” Spike said as he quickly rushed out carrying both of the boxes and Applejack.

Spike kept running until Applejack finally got his attention. “Hey Spike! We are going the wrong way!” Spike stopped running and started gasping for air while still holding on to the boxes and AJ. “Spike. Could you at least let me down. I can walk just fine.” Spike was embarrassed to have carried her so far, but AJ was even more embarrassed. They both were blushing hard as Spike put her down gently.

There was an awkward silence between the two until Spike finally said, “Thanks for saving me back there.”

Applejack looked back at Spike “So Spike, what happened back there. Why were they corning you.”

“Oh they just wanted to know about some dreams that I had when I passed out in a racing accident just before I got to Sugarcube corner.” Spike said as quick as he could so she wouldn’t hear it while quickly picking up the boxes again and began walking. “Come on we should get to the farm.”

AJ then lassoed his tail to get him to halt. “Hold on there partner. What you mean by passin out in a racing accident? And what dreams?”

“Uh” was all Spike could get out as he started thinking to himself for a quick escape, but AJ was too good at telling when Spike tried to lie. He just gave up knowing that there was no way he was going to get away. She lassoed him and she can tell when he lies. What other option did he have?

“Spike, just tell me the truth. I can handle it.” Applejack said to help him lower his guard.

Spike then pondered about whether to talk or just try to avoid it. ‘Well AJ wasn’t exactly in the dreams and maybe she could even help out or something.’ “Alright AJ, I’ll tell you everything IF you promise to never tell another living soul.”

“Ah promise.” Applejack excitedly replied. ‘I will finally share a secret with him that nopony else, not even Twilight, knows about.’

“I need a Pinkie Promise.” he said with a grin.

“Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye.” she said as she performed each of the motions. “There was that good enough for you.” 

“It didn’t feel like you meant it”

“Just tell me already!”

“Alright, alright. Calm down.” Spike said as he led her to a quiet place so they could talk in private. “The dream began...” Spike then began to tell Applejack about both dreams and she seemed less than pleased.

‘Spike was dreamin bout those kinds of things with both Rainbow and Rarity. He didn’t even seem like he was hidin anythin. Does that mean that he doesn’t even remotely care.’ AJ was trying her best to keep a straight face, but the longer she thought about it and hear Spike’s story she was starting to lose it.

After Spike finished he noticed that something was wrong with Applejack. He started waving his claw in front of her face to get her attention, “Hey, Equestria to Applejack. Anypony home up there?” 

She finally realized that she spaced out for a moment and hid her face away. “Sorry Spike, I got a little distracted.”

Spike then looked confused. “Well that’s unlike you. You’re usually really focused, but I guess it is late and you’re probably tired.” He then went back to the dreams, “So AJ, what do you think those dreams are about.”

Applejack didn’t really want to answer. She sort of knew what it meant, but she herself didn’t want to. “Well Spike. Considering what happened in your dreams. I would have to say...” She paused and looked down for a sec. She then continued, “that you are scared of commitment. I mean just look at how you reacted. You were terrified about hearing any of those things, especially from those two.”

Spike then thought about it. “Yeah, maybe you’re right.” He then rose up off the ground and patted himself a bit. He then grabbed both boxes again “Well lets get you home. I’m sure your family must be worried for how long I kept you.”

“Yeah sure.” was the last thing Applejack said the entire way back to the farm. ‘I can’t believe I just lied to Spike. It seems obvious that he has conflicting feelings for them.’ They both arrive at the front door of her home. “Well Spike, thanks for the help.”

“Are you kidding? You have helped me so much today. I almost can’t thank you enough.” Spike put down the boxes and began to hug Applejack. All AJ could do was blush. He eventually set her down and she couldn’t really say anything. She could barely stand as her legs felt so wobbly just from the embrace.

Just then a sudden cold breeze kicked in. Spike had a small shiver, “It’s already getting to the cold time of the year. I may ask Rarity to make me a scarf or a sweater.”

Applejack quickly responded, “Wait Spike, I could make it for you.”

“Why? Do you even know how to knit?”

“I have been gettin a few lessons from Fluttershy and want to make one. Since you want a scarf, I can make one for you and practice it at the same time.”

“Well alright, I guess it does save me a few bits even with friendly discounts.”

“I’ll be sure to make it nice and warm for you.”

“Thanks. Well see ya later AJ.”

“I’ll good night Spike.” She picked up her boxes and headed inside.

Spike headed for home while keeping a sharp lookout for Rainbow Dash in the sky. He sneaked all around Ponyville until he reached the Library. He was home free until he saw that Rainbow was in the tree keeping watch.

Spike wasn’t surprised. ‘I wonder if she remembers she has cloud duty in the morning.’ He waited until finally she flew off for home. ‘Finally. I am gonna wake up so late tomorrow and I have to help at the farm. Tomorrow is going to suck, but at least I am safe until I can come up with something.’

As Spike headed toward the house, he felt a hoof tap on his back. He quickly yelped, but was quieted when the hoof went around his mouth. He turned to look and feared the worse, but it was just Pinkie.

“Are you crazy Pinkie!?” He shouted with a whisper voice.

“Lets go inside so you can tell me about those dreams.”

“I’ll tell you tomorrow. I am really tired right now and I have work early.”

“Pinkie Promise?”

Spike does the Pinkie promise. Pinkie then started hopping around the Library, “Alrighty Spike. I will see you tomorrow after your work and I want to know with excruciating details.”

“Yeah, now can I get some sleep.”

“Oh sorry, good night.”

As soon as Pinkie left he just laid down on the couch and instantly fell asleep. With all the things that may happen tomorrow. He felt he could sleep there for an eternity.
> Chapter 3 Special: Applejack's Memories
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Back at Applejack’s home in her room. She is in her bed, but is stuck thinking about past events. She then begins to remembers the time when ‘Spike was still heart broken as he told how Rarity had left late at night while leaving messages for all of her friends. Spike caught her as she was waiting for the train and he told her that liked her a lot, but instead of facing it head on, she just told him to wait for when she returned and then she will give him her answer.

Spike waited so long after that. Almost every day he just sat on the bench by the trains hoping she would arrive with an answer. Instead one year later everypony got invitations to her wedding ceremony in Canterlot. When Spike caught wind of it... well I don’t want to remember that ever again.

When the day of the wedding came, Spike had planned to make a scene, but when he saw how she smiled at the altar, he just walked out. If it weren’t for the fact that I was one of the bride’s girls, she would have gone after him. Somepony did go after him at least. Spike’s depression lasted for months. I was worried Spike would never get out of it or do something worse, but over time Spike finally got better one step at a time. 

Twilight monitored him since she was not expecting that this would leave such an impact. Like a mother protecting her child. Everypony wanted to help Spike get better and we eventually got through to him. We couldn’t hate Rarity for liking another pony, but how she handled the problem was what got us. Only Rainbow, Twilight, and I really know what happened to Spike.

Even after he got better, I looked out for Spike. I made sure that when he was looking for work, that he would work for me so I could keep a close watch. Everything was going great until she returned. I was so worried that Spike would go berserk or break down again upon seeing her return. I even went to Twilight early in the morning to express my concerns. I am glad that nothing happened.

When Rainbow told me that she thinks Rarity was going to use Spike again, I got worried. Both of them alone and Rarity didn’t even seem to mind so much. I am glad that Rainbow went to watch over him. I had to do my secret lesson with Fluttershy. After the lesson, I had to see how things were going and I saw Rainbow and Rarity fighting about something. I was about to break in there, but then Spike stopped the fighting and then Rainbow flew out the door. 

I kept watching all the way to the end in secret and noticed how Rarity was trying to seduce Spike. That got me furious, but if I had entered, that would have made things awkward. I am glad that Spike was as dumb as a rock to not notice what she was doing. I lost track of time from spying so long that I had to rush to do a delivery. 

After the delivery, I had to go to Sugarcube corner to pick up some ingredients and noticed Spike being stared down by Rarity, Rainbow, and Pinkie. That was a hairy situation, but then... those dreams Spike had. Why wasn’t I in them. I had done so much for Spike. I just wished that he noticed me as well.’
> Chapter 4: Love Within Every Stitch
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Chapter 4:Love Within Every Stitch



It is the dawn of the next day. Everything was quiet and peaceful, until there was *EXCESSIVELY LOUD KNOCKING*

Spike finds himself on the floor again. He looked in a nearby mirror and examined his eyes. They were bloodshot and a little dark. It looked like he had a rough night and turned into a grumpy dragon. His tiredness was rewarded with *EXCESSIVELY LOUD KNOCKING* again.

“Alright! I’m coming.” Spike said while yahwning the whole way. He was so grumpy it blew past his head that it may have been Rainbow Dash or Rarity at the door. Spike opened the door quickly and saw it was Fluttershy outside his door.

“Oh. Hi Spike.” Fluttershy could see that he didn’t look so good. Spike however calmed his rage since he knew that Fluttershy was too nice to be mean to. It is just impossible for Spike to be angry or even a little grumpy around her. “Spike are you alright? You don’t look well.”

“Well I had better nights I guess. I found myself on the floor again arched this time. That couch may be getting too small now. I just roll right out of it.” Spike groaned while rubbing his back to help the pain decrease.

“They say that those who roll around a lot when they sleep usually have a lot of problems and stress in their life.” Fluttershy didn’t realize how right she was, but who wouldn’t have problems when friends are fighting around him and his crazy emotions that he can’t seem to understand nor control very well.

“Yeah. Well I just had a bad dream. It’s silly that as old as I am that I still have scary dreams.”

Fluttershy did her best to comfort him, “Oh! Well Spike. This may come as a shock to you, but I sometimes have scary dreams too.” Spike wasn’t surprised. “Pinkie told me a way to beat the dreams and that is to laugh when things get too scary.”

“Yeah I don’t think that will keep my problems at bay.” Spike said aloud without realizing it.

“Oh. Well how about talking about these problems?”

“Nononononono! I don’t want to push my problems on you!” Spike did his best to convince her, but she was the element of kindness. How could she just walk away from a friend in need of help?

“Spike. Don’t worry.” A fire in her heart and eyes then flared. “I can help ANYPONY!!” Her hoof now shaking at the sky. She then quickly reverts back to timid Fluttershy, “That is if you want help of course.”

“No! I am fine.” Spike went to the bathroom, rubbed his eyes, wiped it with cold water, got some eye drops, and then rushed back to Fluttershy. “See. I am perfectly fine. I got no worries in the world!” He does his best to show an upbeat behavior, but Fluttershy wasn’t fooled. Spike then drooped down a bit. “I’m sorry Fluttershy.”

“It’s ok.” Fluttershy then guided Spike to the couch so he could lay down. “Now Spike. Just empty that little head of your troubles.”

“Alright, but don’t say I didn’t warn you.” Spike warned, but Fluttershy was not shaken as her desire to be kind to all creatures *except scary dragons* protected her decision. “Well it all started around the time when Twilight left…”

*Some time later* “And now I have these weird dreams with Rainbow and Rarity. I also told Applejack about those dreams and she helped out a little, but now I don’t know how to face Rainbow or Rarity. Now even Pinkie wants to know.” Spike then breathed in and out. “So that’s what has been going on for the past few days.”

Fluttershy face was bright red from hearing in detail about the dreams. Spike didn’t even look at her the whole time since he was so ashamed the whole time, but he wanted to get it off his chest so badly.

After a few minutes of awkward silence Fluttershy gave her advice, “Oh… um… Spike?”

“Yeah?” Spike turned to Fluttershy to hear her words of wisdom.

“Just don’t give up.” She said with a smile.

Spike mentally hit himself. He avoided being mean however, considering that he doubts there is anypony that can give him advice on this whole matter. “Well thanks… I guess.”

“Spike just remember to be honest and true to everypony, but also yourself.” Fluttershy then saw on the clock that it was getting close to noon. “Oh I have to go! Here is the book I wanted to return. Sorry for leaving so abruptly.” Fluttershy flew off.

Spike got off the couch to close the door, but then a pink blur rushed past him. Spike fell down at the sudden intruder. Once he saw Pinkie, his claw and face got reacquainted. “What do you want Pinkie?”

“You Pinkie Promised to tell me that juicy secret.” The Pink one said as she got herself comfy on the couch with popcorn ready.

“Buck. Fine, but you have to promise not to tell anypony or anything for that matter.” Pinkie did her signature promise, while Spike had the blessing to tell his story all over again to Pinkie Pie.

*It is now noon*
“Are you satisfied?” Spike asked with an obvious annoyed expression. Pinkie just sat there with her mouth open. Spike didn’t know what to do nor did he really care since he was more scared of finding Rainbow and or Rarity. Spike decided the best course of action was to avoid those two at all costs. He was just glad that all he had to do was help at the farm. He can find safety with Applejack around. Spike then left Pinkie with her mouth still open.

Spike snuck around town, but was actually attracting more attention himself than sneaking. When he got to Sweet Apple Acre’s his Sneaking rose to 5. He saw only Big Mac who was taking a large carriage of apples.

“Hey! Big Mac!! Is Applejack around?” Spike waved to get his attention. Spike knows all too well that Big Mac was the strong silent type, a stallion of few words, and sleeps with a doll. Spike kind of found out through Applejack, but he promised he wouldn’t tell Big Mac he knows.

“Nope”

“Where is she?” Spike asked desperately as his defender wasn’t around.

“She’s with Fluttershy”

“Oh. I guess that’s why Fluttershy was running late.” Just then the wind blew again. Spike had a quick shiver from the cold it brought. “I really hope she makes that scarf soon.”

Spike was still worried if either Rarity or Rainbow came by, but still pressed on to work. It beats staying locked up in the library. Also the library would probably be the first place they would come to look.

Spike continued to work on the farm collecting the last few apples they had since it was getting near the end of harvest and for the fall season to come in. Spike looked over his shoulder anytime he heard a branch move or some leaves blow. His paranoia grew with each gust of wind until he finally told himself, “Alright Spike. Nothing is going to happen. Stop getting so worked up over nothing.”

Just then a branch barely grazed his back, but in his mind it was one of the two mares he had hoped to avoid. He turned around quickly to see who it was, but didn’t see anypony. He thought his mind was playing tricks and that he was going insane. Spike continued working, until he was hit on his back again. He ignored it, but then it was followed by a voice.

“Heyah Spike!” the mysterious voice said. Spike jumped at hearing it. He then turned to see who it was. It was the Cutie Mark Crusaders, although they had long gotten their cutie marks. They still have the club for other ponies who have yet to discover their talents and help any pony who needs it. They made it into a small organization that has branched around Equestria to help all ponies no matter what age to discover themselves. A noble venture indeed.

Spike was now wrapped around one of the highest branches of an apple tree. The girls just laughed at him. “Spike! Come down.” Spike then realized who it was and slid down the tree.

“Thank Celestia, it’s just you three.” Spike felt relieved at the sight of the three until the next question.

“Hey Spike. Do you know why Rarity is looking for you?” Sweetie Belle asked. This sent Spike’s head spinning.

“Yeah. Rainbow Dash also was looking around for you too.” Spike’s head felt like it imploded when he heard that from Scootaloo. All of his worries were coming true. It was only a matter of time before they found him. Spike was losing it again and began hyperventilating. Once Spike began doing this, the CMC tried their best to calm him down.

“Spike! What’s wrong!?”

“MY LIFE IS OVER! MY DAYS ARE NUMBERED!! THIS COULD BE MY FINAL HOUR!!!”

Spike was yelling and running in circles until he blacked out. When Spike woke up, he was inside the barn and noticed a first aid kit next to him. He then saw the CMC surrounded him with worried looks on their faces. Spike tried to move his body, but he soon realized that he was practically taped all around like a messed up mummy. He thought to himself ‘No wonder these three didn’t get cutie marks for being nurses.’

“Hey! Can you three get me out of this mess?”

“Spike! You’re awake.”

They cut Spike loose from the entanglement. Spike then asks “What happened?”

“Uh…” The three paused a second and then Sweetie Belle answered, “You hit a stray branch.” What really happened was seeing Spike panic randomly caught them off guard, so Scootaloo struck him down on the back of his head to quiet him. Spike bought it so it is a secret that those three will keep to their graves. “So why did you freak out like that anyways?”

“Well… let’s say I know something that they want to know and I don’t want to tell them. It’s one of the ‘Curiosity killed the cat’ scenarios.” Spike explained while being as vague as he could.

“Oh! Can we get to know your secret!?”

“Well if I told everypony, then it wouldn’t be a secret anymore.” This only peaked their curious states more, but then Spike got serious. “Besides it will probably end up breaking our friendships if they ever found out. I really don’t want that to happen.” 

The three then kind of understood where he stands and decided in unison to help him out. “Don’t worry Spike. We will do our best to distract and mislead those two or any other pony who wants to know your secret.” Scootaloo thought it would be a good opportunity for her to get some time to be with Rainbow Dash and Sweetie Belle wanted more sister time. Applebloom would be the last line of defense if either got past. This was their new mission and they accepted.

Applebloom then slyly asked, “But after you will tell us your secret right?”

Spike really needed the help so he confided in defeat. “Fine.”

The three mares then left with a new purpose of protecting Spike’s juicy secret. Spike was beginning to think ‘At this rate. Everypony, but those two will know.’ Just then Spike was saw the most reassuring thing. Applejack was returning from Fluttershy’s place, but then it turned sour for him. He saw Rarity and Rainbow Dash tagged along with her. He instantly froze and took cover inside the barn inside a pile of hay.

Spike was literally losing it again. He had nowhere to run either since they entered the barn talking about him. He eavesdropped on the conversation and noticed that it seemed that they were sort of interrogating Applejack. 

Spike first heard Rainbow Dash’s voice. “Come on Applejack. You have to know where he is!” 

Applejack replied “I don’t know where he is. I was with Fluttershy all morning.”

Spike then heard Rarity being rather suspicious, “And what were you doing with Fluttershy?”

Applejack started to fumble over words. “Uh well… I was doing uh…” Applejack was known to be a bad liar. It makes sense since she did represent Honesty. Luckily for Applejack, there was a distraction. Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle entered the barn.

They both yelled “Rarity! Rainbow Dash! We found Spike!” Spike’s scales turned white. Were they really going to rat him out like that? “Spike’s trying to board the next train to Canterlot!”

Rainbow Dash declared, “Spike is not getting away that easily!” Spike then heard the sound of hooves running off. Applejack let out a sigh of relief. “That dragon is going to be the death of me.” Spike then let out a sigh of relief. He didn’t realize however that Applejack had heard him. “Who’s in there!?”

Spike let out an “eep” and tried not to move, but she knew something was hiding in the hay. She grabbed the pitchfork and gave a final warning, “Look Ah’m warning you! Come out with y’er hooves or whatever you have up!” Spike then came out of the hay pile and surprised Applejack. “Spike! But I thought you were on a train to Canterlot!?”

“Yeah, I can explain that.” Spike tried to say something, but was cut off by Applebloom who appeared out of nowhere. “The area is secured Spike. We won’t let those two cause any more problems.” As quickly as she appeared, she left outside of the barn to who knows where. Spike then turned back at Applejack who was waiting for an explanation of the events that just occurred. “I sort of promised something for the Cutie Mark Crusaders in exchange for protection from Rarity and Rainbow Dash.” Spike said sheepishly. Normally Applejack would scold the dragon for doing that, but seeing first-hand his situation, she was willing to let it slide.

“I understand, but what did you promise them anyways?” Applejack was very curious and as we learned from before. She could get anything out of Spike. ANYTHING!!!

“Well um… they wanted to know about the secret that I told you, so I promised I’d tell them.” Spike was unsure how she would react, but when he was pinned to the wall, he kind of knew what she was going to say next.

“Are you CRAZY!!?” Applejack exclaimed. “Applebloom and the rest of them are too young for that kind of thing!”

“Relax! I wasn’t going to tell them THOSE parts! Just the general idea yah know.” Spike tried to play it off, but Applejack wasn’t giving in so easily.

Applejack started out quiet, then changed to a much louder and menacing voice. “Spike. If I so hear ANYTHING about it from those three, I will tie you to the bulls and let them have at you.” Applejack’s threat got to Spike. He didn’t really imagine the scenario, but the look in her eyes said, ‘That’s the honest truth’.

Spike looked away and said “I promise okay!?”

Now that she had set the dragon straight she could get down to her next question. “Alright Spike. I trust yah enough, but why are you here on the farm today?”

“Oh I was here to lend a hand, but only Big Mac was here. Truly I wanted some protection from Rarity and Rainbow Dash, but they are even giving you a hard time. I don’t want to add more stress in your life either.” Spike put his head down and turned like he was headed out the barn door.

Applejack was a bit shocked. In her mind, she thought Spike considered her as a guardian or an adult figure. Her face turned a little red because she was hoping that Spike wouldn’t see her as an adult figure, but as a stallion sees a mare. She then saw Spike was going out the door and stopped him. “Spike! Don’t worry. You aren’t causing problems for me. The problem makers are Rainbow Dash and Rarity. They’re acting like immature children. They should let you have your privacy.”

Spike felt a little better. “Thanks Applejack. You are truly the most dependable of ponies.”

As Applejack and Spike exited the barn, she asked, “Say Spike? How about staying over for dinner. Seems like you worked hard today and I want to repay yah.”

Spike’s mouth watered and his stomach rumbled, “I would love that. I can already taste those desserts already.”

Spike and Applejack then noticed the sky above was getting dark. It looked like it was going to be a real doozy of a storm. She then gave Spike and offer. “Hmm, maybe you should stay here tonight Spike. I don’t want yah getting sick or anything.” Before Spike could reject her offer, it started raining. “Exactly like I thought. So how about it Spike?”

“Well…” The rain then turned into a downpour. “Not like I have much of a choice now do I.”

“Alright then Spike.” She then entered the rain. “Come on Spike! We still need to get inside the house!” Spike followed Applejack while trying to shield himself from the storm. They finally entered the home drenched and out of breath.

Spike said as he shook off some of the water, “Well at least I won’t need a bath after this.”

Applejack turned to him and came out with a serious voice, “Spike. We may live on a farm, but we do not behave like pigs. We take showers before and after working.” Spike wanted to say something back, but something was distracting him. Her wet mane started getting to him. He then looked away and shaking his head. Applejack took it as he was saying ‘no’ to her. “Spike! You are going to take a shower right this minute whether you want to or not.”

Spike had no idea what just happened. He was still confused at what happened. He was then dragged all the way to the bathroom. He thought he was going to wash himself, but Applejack was going to make sure he took his bath. She entered along with him, which surprised him.

“Applejack! Why are you in here!?” Spike for some reason instinctively grabbed a nearby towel.

“I am here to make sure yah take a proper bath.” She then pulled out a brush. “Now sit on the stool so I can soap up y’er back.” Spike wanted to protest, but the look in her eye and facial expression said, ‘If you don’t sit down, you won’t see tomorrow.’ Spike obeyed to every command she said. At first it was uncomfortable, but then it became soothing and relaxing for Spike. When she finally finished, Spike entered the large warm bath and was at peace.

When Spike looked to the side however, he saw Applejack was putting soap on herself. Spike’s face turned red and he looked away. Applejack was confused, but she just ignored it and continued. Spike, of course, was freaking out. Applejack was a friend, probably the best one outside of Twilight. He almost considered Applejack as his older sister, but tonight he saw her in a way he was not expecting.

Spike just closed his eyes and tried to imagine other things. ‘Gems, Captain Rubber Ducky, the sweet smell of apple pies, something entering the water… wait WHAT!!!?’ Spike’s eyes shot wide open. He saw that Applejack was also getting in the bath. “AJ! What are you doing!?”

“Um, taking the soap off? What’s the matter with you?” Applejack was used to bathing with her family members at random times when they didn’t want to take a bath.

“It’s nothing! I think I am plenty clean now so…” Spike began rising out of the tub to leave, but was grabbed by Applejack.

“Hey! Don’t try to weasel your way out of being clean!” What happened next must have either been a miracle or bad luck, but Spike blacked out.

He woke up a few mins later in the guest bed with Applebloom, Applejack, and Big Mac around him. In a groggy way Spike said, “What happened?” Spike then grabbed his head in pain. He had a massive headache along with a sharp pain on his forehead.

“Oh Spike! I am glad y’er okay!” Applebloom jumped around the room with her excitement.

Applejack was constantly apologizing to the dragon. Spike asked again, “So what happened?”

Applebloom answered, “We found yah on the bathroom floor. We think you slipped on a bar of soap.”

Applejack then quickly headed for the door while changing the subject, “So Spike! Are yah hungry?”

“Yeah! I’m starving over here.” He tried to get up, but when he stood, his legs felt wobbly and his head was still dizzy. Applejack sat him down and responded with a worried expression, “Spike. Just sit here and I’ll bring the food up to yah. Yah took a mighty blow to the head.”

“Fine.” Spike laid down and awaited his meal. It was quiet for a little while. Spike’s stomach began roaring for food. “Jeez. What’s taking so long?” Spike finally heard some hoofsteps followed by a knocking. “Finally. Come in!”

Applejack entered the room with a large plate on her back with a signature Apple Pie. Spike could already taste the Apple Pie with its thick scent. Before Spike lunged at Applejack however, she raised a hoof. “You just stay in bed and I’ll feed you.” Spike was alright with this. He nodded in agreement and waited for his first bite. She sat down next to him and got comfy, cut a slice of the pie, then began to serve the dragon.

Once Spike had that first bite, it was like he was in heaven. Applejack continued to feed him. Each bite brought a smile to both of their faces. Once the pie ran out however, Spike was stuffed, but Applejack looked a little sad. Her face then lit up again, “Oh Spike! I almost forgot! I finished y’er scarf!”

Spike was happy to hear that. He was surprised at how fast she got it done. “Wow! That’s great!”

Applejack blushed a little and looked away a little, “Well. It’s not on Rarity’s or Fluttershy’s level, but it should keep you plenty warm through any weather.”

“Don’t worry about quality. I am just happy to have a scarf for the cold weather we are in.”

“Alright Spike. I’ll go get it. Just wait here.” Applejack then got up and headed out to retrieve the gift. She was grinning the whole time. When she returned, Applebloom was in the room. “Applebloom!? Why are you in here?”

“What? Can’t I tend to Spike too?” Applebloom looked like she was interrogating him rather than helping.

“Applebloom. Why is there a spotlight to his face?”

“Well… it’s a secret!”

“Now you know you don’t keep secrets from the family!” Applejack kind of guessed what she was trying to get out of Spike.

“But I promised I wouldn’t tell anypony!”

“Applebloom. I don’t have time for this so go take a bath or do I have to MAKE you take a bath!” Applejack’s threat instantly shocked Applebloom and she ran out like a bat out of hell. She then noticed Big Mac by the door. It looked as though he was trying to eavesdrop on things. “Big Mac!” Spike and AJ heard a stumble of hooves. “You take a bath too!” All that was heard after was a bunch of running.

Spike thought to himself ‘Well at least we know who's in charge of the Apple family here.’ Spike then looked at the present on AJ’s back. “So… can I see the scarf?”

“Oh. I almost forgot.” She put the gift on Spike’s lap. “Have at it.” And with AJ’s approval, Spike tore away at the present while being careful not to harm the gift itself.

When Spike looked at the scarf, it looked decent. There were no major errors in the stitching and it felt really warm. There were apple designs along the scarf and when Spike smelled it, it reminded him of apples. “This scarf is great. I guess the apples were expected.”

Applejack gave a sigh of relief. “Alright Spike. How about I put it on yah?”

Spike then protested, “No. I can do it.”

Applejack insisted on doing it, but Spike kept protesting. The dragon and the mare began a crazy battle of the scarf, until things became silent. Nothing was moving in the room. Spike was blinded by the scarf. All he could feel was something soft touching against his lips and the taste of apples? Spike realized what was taking place right in front of him. He was kissing Applejack!
> Chapter 5: Two small problems are not better than one BIG problem
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Chapter 5: Two small problems are not better than one BIG problem


Applejack finally broke the kiss, which seemed to last an eternity in both of their minds. Spike still had his mouth open as the scarf slowly fell from his face to reveal Applejack’s blushing face. There was an awkward silence between the two. Spike didn’t know how to handle this at all.

Applejack was a little shocked herself. She acted on impulse. Her body was telling her to do this for hours now. She saw how Spike couldn’t react either and it got her worried. She decided to save their friendship by playing it off as an accident. “I- I am so sorry. I just fell over and…”, but Applejack was known to be a bad liar under pressure.

Spike didn’t catch much of it however, as his body collapsed from all the rapid thoughts that entered his head, lack of sleep, and the constant rude awakenings. They finally caught up to him and the extreme shock of Applejack’s kiss sent him over the edge. The last thing he saw was the ceiling of the room he was in as he blacked out.

Spike wakes up with the sun shining brightly at his face. The first thing he notices is Applejack next to him passed out in a chair while her face was on the bed sheet covers. Applejack looked like she had been crying the whole night. She still looked upset, but as Spike gently caress her head, she began to smile. Spike then smoothly got out of bed without waking Applejack and headed downstairs to see Applebloom and Granny Smith working hard on breakfast while Big Mac was setting down some plates.

Applebloom was the first to notice Spike as he entered the kitchen. “Good mornin Spike!”

Spike returned with an awkward waving like he was nervous or something, they were too busy to notice it however. Spike then said as he motioned towards the door outside, “Well, I think I should get going. I don’t want to overstay my welcome and I still have morning chores to take care of.”

Applebloom stopped what she was doing and stopped Spike before he continued further. Her eyes were so enormous and full of sparkles. The eyes that would make anyone feel guilty. She said in the sweetest voice, “Aren’t ya goin to stay fer brunch?” Spike’s body was stabbed with guilt all over. He couldn’t say no to her.

“Alright.” Spike said as he was defeated by her guilty eyes and sweet voice combo. Spike then thought to himself, ‘If I eat fast enough, I can probably escape before Applejack has time to wake up.’ Spike helped set up the rest of the table and sat ready to eat. Before he ate something, Granny Smith had smacked his claw with a wooden spoon. Even with dragon scales, that still smarts.

Applebloom told him, “We don’t begin eatin until everypony is at the table.”

As usual though, Spike’s plans didn’t go the way he wanted. It’s like a curse from up above. Applejack came running down the steps looking really worried to find Spike eating some breakfast with the rest of her family. “Oh hi Spike…” Spike waved awkwardly to her, which unnerved Applejack. 

When she sat down at the table, both Spike and she were caught staring down their plates and utensils. One of the other Apple’s wanted to talk, but couldn’t find the courage to ask what happened or to even start a conversation. The meal was eaten in silence. Suddenly, Spike rose from the chair.

“I finished my meal.” Spike said quickly. He then brought his food to the sink in the kitchen then went back to the family. “I really must be going now.” Spike then motioned towards the door.

Before Spike exited, Applejack cut his escape off by saying, “NO!” The loud exclamation shocked everypony and Spike. “I mean I will escort you home…” She looked back down with a blush upon her cheeks. “What if those two are still out there? You will need somepony to defend you.”

Spike hates to admit it, but what she said was true. Spike looked as if he was going to go on his own, but Applejack’s sister began pleading that Spike take her with him. Spike had no choice, but to agree or face off against two persistent ponies. “Alright.” Spike was defeated once again, by the Apple family. He thought to himself, ‘Those two sisters work like a team.’

Ponyville looked empty. Applejack took the lead as Spike trailed behind her looking everywhere for signs of Rainbow Dash or Rarity. If it wasn’t for Applejack reminding him, he would have probably waltzed right into one of them, however, Applejack wasn’t really worried about them at all. She was worried about how is she going to explain anything to Spike and wondering if he remembers, what he feels about her, and what will happen to their friendship. 

All of these worries weighed down on her and she was losing it. In her mind she was thinking, ‘Why did I go and do such a dumb idea like that. Spike never liked me that way. I tried so hard yesterday to get him to notice me and then I just go right up and kiss the guy while he was blinded. *mental sigh* I just wish Spike would notice me. I’ve tried so hard to make sure he was happy after that whole Rarity incident.’

Before Applejack’s thoughts continued any further, they were closing in on the library. She realized that she hasn’t once talked to Spike. It was now or never.

Applejack then stopped suddenly. “Um, Spike?”

Spike stopped and answered, “Yes?”

Applejack then turned to face Spike. Her eyes were really focused. She was going to question him and she was going to get an answer. “Do you remember what happened last night?”

Spike rubbed the back of his head and gave a general answer, “Well I sort of remember, it is a little hazy though.”

Applejack wasn’t playing games, “Spike, don’t dance around the truth.”

Spike sighed and began to blush, “I remember that you and I… ki- kissed.”

Applejack blushed as well, “Well… how was it?”

“Well. I don’t really know what to make of it.” Spike noticed Applejack reacted a little hurt. “I- I mean it wasn’t bad or anything or good. I mean I’m not saying you’re a bad kisser or anything.” Spike continued rambling, but just kept digging himself further down.

Applejack stopped him by planting her hoof in his mouth. She was as red as an apple as she told Spike “Spike, calm down.”

Spike removed her hoof and continued more calmly, “Sorry. I just don’t know what to say.”

“Spike. I’m sorry.” Spike noticed in Applejack’s eyes that she began forming tears. “I really am sorry Spike. I don’t know what I’m doing either. I mean I really want you to notice me, but I’m just so scared.” She turned away to wipe away her tears while continuing her pleas, “Spike, I was so scared that if I tried to get closer to you that we might not be friends anymore. That you might hate me. I was also scared that you were going to be taken away by any other mare. I just couldn’t bare it any longer and no I’m just another burden on you.”

When Spike heard that, it was the last straw. He quickly hugged her and with tears of his own being shed. “Don’t ever say that Applejack. You’re always helping me. I’m sorry too Applejack. I always came to you for problems, but I never knew you were suffering this much.”

Applejack then reacted on her instinct once more, and gave Spike another kiss. Spike initially was shocked, but this time returned it. It made each other feel warm inside, but the feeling was short lived for Spike. They eventually broke the kiss and now just staring at each other’s eyes. The loving daze they were in was finally broken when they noticed that it wasn’t so early in the morning so other ponies were now up and about. Some walked away with red faces as they noticed in which gave them blushes. They then headed to the library which wasn’t so far away now.

When they entered they found Pinkie still having her mouth wide open from the shock.

Spike reacted, “Pinkie!? You’re still here!?”

Pinkie shook her head like she just got back to reality, “Oh hi Spike.” She then gave a long yawn.

“Pinkie. Go home. You’re clearly tired and probably hungry and the cakes are probably worried that you were gone for a day without telling them.” Spike directed Pinkie towards the door.

“What do you mean for a day?” Pinkie tilted and scratched her head.

“Pinkie. Don’t you realize that you have been here for about a day now? Just look at the calendar!” Pinkie then walked up and saw that it was indeed tomorrow.

“Oh no! I got to go! See you guys later!” Pinkie looked like a pink blur as she exited the library. Now only Applejack and Spike were left in the library.

Spike tilted his head in confusion. “Man, Pinkie sure is a weird one. You’d think I would have learned that by now.” They both chuckled together until they heard a knocking at the door.

Spike went to go answer the door, “It’s probably Pinkie. She may have forgotten something,” but what he saw was Rainbow Dash at his door. He nearly had a heart attack as he fell back to the floor. Just then Rarity appeared behind Rainbow. It was Spike’s worst nightmares coming true. Applejack then got in front of Spike to defend him.

Before Applejack said anything, Rarity spoke first, “We mean no harm.” Spike and Applejack gave a confused look. “We are here to apologize to Spike.” Rarity then gave Rainbow Dash a quick glare.

Rainbow Dash then gave her apology first. “Yeah. We are sorry for trying to pry at your secrets.”

Rarity then continued with her own apology, “Spike. We both don’t want you to avoid us for something like this. We hope you can forgive us for being so rude to you.”

Applejack went from a defensive position to a more welcoming one as Spike got up. All of Spike’s worries were finally gone. Rainbow Dash and Rarity weren’t after him anymore and were friendly with each other. He was so happy that the troubles are over and he can enjoy his vacation while Twilight was still away.

Spike gleefully responded to the two apologetic mares, “Of course I forgive you both! You don’t know how happy this makes me!”

The two mares were smiling now as the both said, “Thank you Spike.”

Rainbow continued, “So Spike. You won’t miss out on practice anymore right?”

Rarity added, “And you will help me again won’t you? When you have the time of course.”

Applejack responded for Spike before he could, “Well Spike might have less free time for y’all.”

Rarity questioned, “Why would that be?”

Applejack blushed and turned away as she answered, “Because he has a special somepony.”

All three had the same shocked reaction. Rarity and Rainbow added to their reaction, “WHAT!!!?”

“Y’all heard me.” She continued to blush without even noticing Spike’s reaction.

Rainbow then asked the obvious question, “WHO!?”

“Me of course.” Applejack was proud to admit that.

Rarity then questioned Spike directly, “Spike! Is this true!?”

All the attention was on Spike again. Problems just naturally come to Spike as usual. Spike decided to go along with Applejack for now. Truly he didn’t exactly hate the idea. It was just a bit shocking to him since they hadn’t made anything official yet.

“Yes. It’s true. I am with Applejack now.” After Spike said this a book fell on his head. The title was ‘The Black Omen’. It became dark outside as dark cumulus clouds quickly swept through the skies. They spiraled around the library. Thunder roared as lightning bolts hit the ground. Spike did not realize what he just started.

Spike looked out the window and asked Rainbow, “Hey Rainbow, I thought today was supposed to be clear skies.” He turned back to rainbow, who could not believe what just happened. Her eyes were practically pure white as her pupils were so tiny. Spike looked at Rarity and noticed she was practically the same. “You girls alright?”

They finally regained their senses, but were still appalled at what has been said. Rainbow Dash felt defeated. She was not used to that feeling and never wanted to. Rarity heard a snap in her head before coming back to reality. 

Rainbow responded first, “Yes Spike… I’m fine. I think I’ll go home now.” She left quickly out a window before the tears showed.

Rarity reacted a bit differently. She seemed even more calm and collected than usual. Applejack felt a cold chill creep up on her back. “Well Spike. I guess I will be off as well.” She then turned her gaze to Applejack. “Oh and Applejack. I was going to your farm to ask for your help, but since you’re here, can you help me?”

“Oh sure Rarity.” Applejack waved bye to Spike.

Before Rarity left, she said to Spike, “If anything happens. My boutique are open doors for you.”

Spike just scratched his head, but felt happy. Everything seemed to work out fine. Now he can go goof off the rest of the day. It is still only noon after all. Spike decided to go pay Fluttershy a visit and tell her the good news. He noticed as further away he got from the library that the clouds just disappeared. He just thought it was odd weather.

When Spike reached Fluttershy’s place, she was feeding some of her avian animals. Spike landed abruptly and disturbed the birds from feeding time. Fluttershy was a little shocked herself when Spike landed. He then began hugging her round and around telling her, “My problem has been SOLVED.”

When Spike finished her eyes and the world was spinning for her. “I am happy for you Spike.” She grabbed her head until the world stopped spinning. “So Rarity and Rainbow Dash aren’t after your dreams?”

“Yeah!” Spikw quickly replied.

“And they are friends again?" Fluttershy continued with her questions.

“I think so.” Spike was still unsure, but he could tell they were better around each other than before.

“And there are no other problems then?”

“Well…” Spike was now thinking about how Applejack sort of unofficially made them an official couple. He wasn’t against the idea, but it seemed a little underhanded. The reactions the other two had were questionable too. More Rainbow Dash than Rarity. He felt worried for her now that he thought about it. She left so quickly. He would have the chance to talk to her about it later since they had practice in a few hours.

Spike told Fluttershy, “I am dating Applejack… apparently.”

Fluttershy was a bit taken back. “Are you really going out with her?”

Spike hesitated for a short, but noticeable moment.“Yeah it’s true.”

“I am a little shocked. She seems more like a big sister than a marefriend to you.” Fluttershy was being very blunt about the situation.

Spike thought of Applejack in the same way before, but with recent events he wasn’t sure of many things now. Nopony ever gave him a proper explanation about his dreams. Spike really wasn’t sure who to ask anymore. Twilight was out of town, Applejack didn’t give a desired answer, Fluttershy and Pinkie were both unable to answer properly, and there was no way Spike was going to ask Rarity or Rainbow Dash. There was only one other pony he could ask. Princess Celestia.

“Thank you again Fluttershy.”

“Oh. For what?” Fluttershy had no idea what Spike was going on about.

“For helping me once again."

“Huh?”

Spike waved goodbye and left a confused Fluttershy behind. He raced to the library and quickly began writing a message to Celestia to ask her about the dreams he had. She has to know with all the thousands of years of experience.

Dear Princess Celestia,

I need your help badly. I asked many ponies about certain dreams I had and nopony gave a proper answer. Can you explain what they are?---
--- And that was what happened in my dreams. Please help as soon as you can. It is really a distraction to me and there is nopony I have left who I can rely on. 

Your student’s assistant,
Spike

“Well that’s that.” Spike burns the message to Celestia. “I hope she can give a proper answer. Well I guess I should fix up this place. It’s getting dusty around here.” Just then a return message burped out of Spike. “Well that was faster than I was expecting.” Spike then open the letter and began reading.

Dear Spike,

You are just growing up. It is nothing to worry about. You’re in love Spike. You just have feelings for both Rainbow Dash and Rarity. I thought you always had a crush on Rarity though. Maybe since she was your first crush is why your love for her still lingers. I am surprised that you didn’t figure it out already. It does frighten me a little that you put a little too much detail in your report. I wish you the best of luck.

Your assistant’s teacher,
Princess Celestia

P.S. Don’t be so formal all the time.

Spike let the letter slip out of his hands as he read the last line. He was in love with those two? And with Rarity once more? That can’t be! Spike tried to deny it, but the more he did, the more he realized how true it was. How could he have been so stupid… Just then Spike realized that he is also with Applejack so what now!? He can’t just leave her high and dry now. Spike now realizes that things only got worse, but what Spike doesn’t know is how deep the problem lies.
> Chapter 5 Special: Rarity's Memories
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Chapter 5 Special: Rarity’s Memories


We turn back time to where Rarity has just exited the library with Applejack. The walk to the boutique was silent, but in Rarity’s mind it was all, but quiet. ‘I cannot believe Spike is with her. She must have tricked him or forced him to do this. Applejack and Spike don’t even match, I mean Spike is so dignified and refined, while Applejack is a brute and always messy. Why did he choose HER.’

Applejack was happy that Rainbow and Rarity were seemingly friends again, but how is Rarity and her friendship? She wondered about it throughout the whole walk. She probably wasn’t too happy like Rainbow Dash probably wasn’t, but eventually it will just be one big thing to laugh at. As her Granny says, ‘Time heals all wounds.’

Once they entered the boutique, Rarity snapped back out of her internal rambling and told Applejack that she needed a model. Applejack looked a little disgusted by the idea and a little scared with Rarity having a bunch of needles so close after the news that just happened, but she accepted it and trusted her friend.

Rarity begun with setting up Applejack in a basic sitting pose. She then put on Applejack really frilly dress and begun putting the thread in the needle. As she began hemming the dress, she slowly drifted back into past memories of Spike. All the times Spike had helped her and easily sacrificed anytime he had for her. The time when Spike turned into a giant rampaging dragon and ruined her dress she was making.

Applejack yelped in pain as one of the needles poked her. It didn’t pierce her luckily, but now it scared her. Rarity then began apologizing to her, and they continued. Rarity began her descent back into her flashbacks. She began remembering the fall that Spike and Rarity were going through when Spike shrank back down again. The scariest moment for her that day wasn’t the dragon, but what Spike was about to say. 

She kind of knew his feelings, but she was unsure of how to respond. To just suddenly do that, she couldn’t bare it. She didn’t know where her feelings were at the time, but shortly after she wished he just asked again. When he did ask again, it was a little awkward at the time. She was going to Canterlot and already some ponies were there. She thought she would be ready for Spike, but not with her image on the line. 

She regrets the decision she made where she told Spike to wait for her to come back for her answer. Especially what happened later at the marriage she secretly tried to have just one year after her departure. If it wasn’t for Derpy, she may have still kept her promise to Spike. She thought she was marrying a princely stallion in the beginning, but it turns out he wasn’t as princely as she thought. With the wedding slowly creeping up, she found herself thinking of Spike often. She then had the mail service send out invitations to all of Canterlot, but one pony name Derpy got a hold of a handful of invitations and sent them over Ponyville too.

When she saw Spike at the ceremony, she began to cry. She tried to hide it as tears of joy and had everypony fooled. She frequently found herself looking in Spike’s direction throughout the whole ceremony. She just wanted it to end and for Spike to scold her. What she got was much worse in her heart. When the father had asked, “If there is anypony who would object to the marriage of these two. Speak now or forever hold your peace.” Spike rose up from the chair and walked out right in front of everypony. Rainbow Dash went after him and so did Twilight, but Twilight came back in the room with her head down.

To see Spike just leave the room like that shattered what was left of my heart. It was worse than any words he could have said to her. She wished Spike did object and yelled at her for her mistake. Now he was gone. She wanted to leave, but her legs wouldn't move. She was scared to see Spike again. She decided to stay with the stallion and avoid returning to Ponyville. 

She wore everyday ever since she left Ponyville the fire ruby that Spike gave her, until after that day. She kept it in a special box after that marriage. It wasn’t until one year later that the stallion had enough of her that they had a divorce. Unfortunately for the stallion, she was awarded a lot of his shares, but Rarity didn’t care about that. She just wanted Spike back.

She tried to forget Spike many times, but so many thing reminded her once again of Spike. She opened up a shop and it was successful, but still it couldn’t get her mind off of Spike. It wasn’t until a dream she had that she decided she must go back. The dream was like most of her dreams where Spike just walked away from the altar. She tried to chase him, but he always vanished no matter how hard she tried. This time however, Spike stopped and turned to her.

His mouth moved, but she didn’t hear what he said. She could read the lips as him saying, “I’m sorry.” Rarity then walked slowly to him as he didn’t move. She hugged him and cried out to him, “NO! I’M THE ONE WHO IS SORRY!!” She then repeated in an endless wailing, “I’M SORRY!!!” When she finally stopped, Spike was crying himself. He said, “I forgive you.”

She knew she had to return home and make things right. She got on the first train back to Ponyville that next day and made arrangements so that she would live in her Boutique again. By the time she got to Ponyville, it was pretty late. She walked all around Ponyville and saw the library. She peeked through the window and saw Spike had grown since she last saw him. She didn’t notice the wings, but she did notice he was larger than before.

He looked so peaceful. She decided that her talk with Spike would have to wait. Besides it seems all of her courage had dropped when she saw Spike. It wasn’t because he was larger, but because she was afraid of how he would react to her. She decided to just return home. Before she reached the boutique, she saw Pinkie Pie. When she saw Rarity, she gasped and sped off. Well there goes her big surprise return.

She then just went to rest for the upcoming day and the obvious party Pinkie was going to plan. She was a little excited at the idea, but at the same time worried. What if Spike was there? After waking up from a bizarre ice cream dream, she was escorted to the party. Luckily for her everything turned out fine. She was also happy that Spike accepted her help. What she wasn’t expecting was a certain rainbow maned pegasus interfering in her alone time with Spike. She was hoping to apologize, but Rainbow was going out of her way to make sure he wasn’t alone with her.

She didn’t have a single chance to apologize and it got her steamed up. After Rainbow left, she lost all her nerve anyways. After Spike left, she was all alone again. All she could do was get mad at herself. After she put the finishing touches, she decided to go to sugarcube corner to calm down. She then saw Spike in the window and immediately rushed to him only to find Rainbow Dash was there. She would have left right after that, but when she heard about that there was a secret about her that Spike was keeping. She HAD to know.

Spike was lucky Applejack was there, but they didn’t give up. Rainbow and Rarity made a momentary truce to find out what Spike was hiding. She was supposed to watch Spike at the farm while Rainbow guarded the library, but she dozed off and missed Spike. It was lucky of her that Big Mac caught her. She may have caught a cold. The next day Rainbow and Rarity woke up late due to staying up the night before thinking about the secret. When they both arrived at the library, Spike was gone. They searched all over Ponyville, but didn’t find him anywhere. They even asked Pinkie then Fluttershy, but didn’t find him there. Applejack had just left and Fluttershy directed the two mares to Applejack.

They pestered her to reveal the answer, but nothing. They were beginning to feel bad. What if Spike had skipped town? Just then the crusaders came out of nowhere saying he was headed to Canterlot. They immediately boarded the train to Canterlot. They spent the entire day there only to find out that they had been tricked, when Rarity discovered a note placed in her pocket with an apology from the crusaders. They decided to stay the night with the Princess, since they really had no other place to stay as every place was booked.

The Princess was generous enough to let them stay the night. They learned that Twilight was unavailable as she was in some meditation where her concentration cannot be broken for a full day. She must be one hungry pony when she gets out of there. They both decided it was best that Twilight never knew they were there. Before going to bed, the two decided to discuss some things.

Rainbow wanted to know why she returned. Rarity gave her honest answer of wanting to apologize to Spike. She would do whatever it took to get his forgiveness. She also knew she would have to earn some other ponies trust once more even if she didn’t directly hurt them. Rainbow saw how sincere she was, but wasn’t fully convinced. She told Rarity how bad Spike was scarred. It was all the more reason for her to apologize to Spike.

They agreed that the next time they catch Spike. They would both apologize for everything. When they returned to Ponyville, they first went to the library once more. Everything else was history. As Rarity’s flashbacks ended, she realized she was done the dress. It was a blue monochromatic dress with turquoise and sapphires of many colors all around. It looked beautiful, but sad.

“Alright Applejack. You may go now. Thank you for your help…” Rarity put her things away and levitated the dress off of Applejack.

“Um, okay. I guess I’ll see you later then.” Applejack left the boutique.

Once the door closed. Rarity heard a snap in her head once more. “Spike will be MINE!”