A Dragon at War

by The Howling Behemoth

Rating: mature
Tags: Sex, Main 6, Gore, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Dark, Sad, Other, Romance, Spike, Gilda, Rarity, Tragedy
Length: 8894

The Changelings have invaded. What's a dragon to do. Join the Army! 'Dragon Wars' remade.

This is 'Dragon Wars' remade.
The Changelings have declared war on Equestria. With them low on soldiers, they take volunteers. Spike is one.
Now he must wage war with a near infinite army. All in the hopes of protecting his home and his ponies.
He must properly mix strength and knowledge in hopes of survival. And coping with the loss of those around him.
And deal with his struggling heart.

Published 2013-08-18 22:30:02 UTC
Last updated 2014-04-04 23:51:55 UTC

Let there be War

Author's Note

Please go and read the blog I posted before the story. It will help put things in context. Here
This is my remake of a remake because the other was full of things like reviews and errors I couldn't get rid of, so I'm restarting fresh. Still same story. No more redo's or anything.
There are a few Spike war stories. But none are from beginning to end. I intend to fix that.

Let there be War

It was another beautiful day in the land of Equestria. The sun was shinning, the grass was green, and there was life. No one knew of the horrors that awaited them over the horizon.

But they would, and soon.

"Spike, are you ready?" The purple Princess asked. "We have to meet the others."

"I'm ready Twilight." Spike assured.

"Do you have the snacks?"

"Check." Claw baked this morning.

"Both Pinhole projectors?"

"Check." Claw and hoof crafted.

"Blanket?"

"Check."

"Scrolls and quills?"

"Check and check."

"This will be amazing." Twilight cheered. "Both a magical and scientific phenomena."

"It's just an Eclipse." Spike spoke with a roll of his eyes. "What's the big deal?"

"Oh Spike, it's more than a big deal." She stated. "There hasn't been an complete solar Eclipse since Princess Luna was banished and..."

She never had a chance to finish because of a pink pony. This pony went by the name Pinkie Pie.

"Are you two ready, because I'm ready and..." She took a sharp gasp of air. "Is that a homemade Pinhole projector?"

"Ye-"

"That's amazing, does it work, how long did it take to make, will you..."

"Pinkie, we have to meet the others." Twilight spoke cutting her off.

"You're right!" Pinkie agreed "Let's go."

A little later and they were in Sweet Apple Acres. It had a nice open field were they could watch the Eclipse in peace. They decided to meet early and hang out like friends should. They talked, mostly Pinkie, and ate, mostly Pinkie.

"Well ah'll be." Applejack spoke. "That there was a great apple fritter you made Twilight, you sure there ain't no Apple family blood in you?"

"I'm sure, but-"

"It's true Twilight." Pinkie bounced as she spoke. "I don't think I could bake anything better.

Now that was a compliment. Both Pinkie and Applejack were two of the town's best bakers.

"Thanks girls." Twilight spoke. "But I didn't bake them, Spike did."

All eyes turned to the baby dragon who was happily munching on a ruby. When he realized they were staring he paused and stared back.

"What?"

Pinkie Pie jumped into his face. "Spike these cookies are delicious, how long did it take to make, will you give me..." She was silenced by a well placed apple to the mouth.

"Woe there partner, let the little guy breath." Applejack spoke as she pushed the mare away. "Spike ah tip my hat at your skills."

"Spike these cookies are positively divine." Rarity complemented. "Truly delectable."

Just hearing her say that brought a blush even his thick scales couldn't hide.

"Thank you." He spoke with pride.

"Look." Pinkie pointed in wonder.

The Solar Eclipse was starting, five minutes at most to go. The mares and Spike each grabbed their Pinhole projector for the event, except one.

"Oh dear." Rarity whispered to herself.

"What's wrong Rarity?" Fluttershy asked softly. "If you don't mind telling."

"It seems that I have, uh misplaced my Pinhole projector." Rarity spoke in disappointed. "It seem's I'll miss the glorious Eclipse."

Each mare would have happily offered the unicorn their projector. Luckily or unluckily they never had the chance to offer theirs, Spike beat them to the punch.

"Here you go Rarity." Spike held the projector out. "I hope you don't mind a claw made projector."

"Spike I couldn't take it." She spoke. "You enjoy the Eclipse."

"I will." Spike assured.

"Oh, do you have a second?" she asked looking around.

"No."

"Then how?"

"I'm going to stare at the Eclipse." Spike announced.

"Now hold on there partner." Applejack announced. "No need to go messing up your eyes."

"Yeah." Rainbow Dash agreed "Even some pony as awesome as me wouldn't try that."

"No, you see I have brille."

This brought looks of confusion from the ponies, minus Twilight and Fluttershy. Twilight from all the books she's read and Fluttershy from all her experience with animals. Even the scary ones like dragons.

"Um, what are brille?" Rainbow Dash asked.

"Look deep into my eyes and you will see." Spike ordered.

After rolling their eyes they did.

Spike opened his eyes wide and stared back. A greenish-yellow like transparent caps closed sideways over his eyes. They were like a pair of see through eyelids.

"Whoa!" Rainbow Dash shouted as she fell back. "Dude, that's creepy."

"Don't be rude Rainbow." Rarity scolded. "Especially to such a nice gentle-drake."

"Anything for you Rarity." He spoke dreamily.

"Hey, Gummy has those." Pinkie exclaimed. "He uses them when we go snorkeling."

"They aren't meant to be used like this." Twilight spoke in annoyance. "They are meant to keep dirt and water out." The purple mare explained. "Not the rays of an Eclipse."

"I'll be fine." Spike spoke confidently. I hope.

"It's starting." Fluttershy spoke.

"Don't complain if you go blind." Twilight stated.

The ponies turned to their projectors. The dragon looked directly at the upcoming Eclipse. He didn't know if his brille would work like he said. They were made to keep dirt out and see underwater, not through an eclipse. But he wanted Rarity to see it more than himself. Let's hope being a dragon gives me a bit of Eclipse immunity.

Spike had to admit, Twilight was right. This was an amazing event, a work of nature. He wondered why the princesses didn't do it more often. Doing this rarely keeps it special I guess.

As they watched he felt a familiar sensation in his stomach. It was like his fire was being gently forced out. A letter.

As silently as possible belched the parchment out. He would usually tell Twilight immediately, but not now, for now he just wanted them to enjoy themselves.

He watched them as they gazed in wonder. He loved them, they were his best friends, his family and his very hoard. To a dragon the hoard is their very pride, that was everything.

All too soon it was over.

"That was amazing." Spike announced.

"It was nice." Fluttershy agreed. "Too bad Angel wasn't here."

"Thank you Spike." Rarity spoke giving him a kiss on the cheek "I truly enjoyed the Eclipse."

Pinkie began shuttering, it was her Pinkie senses.

"I feel a doozy!" She announced "And it's a big one!" She eyed the letter in Spike's claw. "And it's coming from there!"

"What's that Spike?" Twilight asked cautiously.

"A letter from the Princess." Spike answered with caution to Pinkie's statement. "I thought it wasn't that important during the Eclipse."

Twilight practically snatched the letter from Spike's claws and began reading. She, like every pony else, had learned never to question Pinkie's senses. If she said it was a doozy then was, this was a big one.

As she read her purple mane began to untidy itself and her ear began twitching. These were the signs that she was stressed and near a breakdown. What scared them the most was that she didn't have her crazed smile. She had a frown on her face that spoke more than any crazed smile.

"Twilight?" Spike called cautiously. "Are you okay?"

"...No."

"What's wrong dear?"

"The Changelings." she answered. "They've just declared war on Equestria."

The mares wasted no time in running toward the town hall. They had to inform the Mayor immediately, and the rest of Ponyville. It wasn't long before a meeting was underway and news spread.

The ponies didn't take it too well.

"Please stop!"

"We're doomed!"

"Every pony..."

"Ahh"

"If you would please..."

They were in the town hall were the announcement of war with the Changelings was announced.

Practically every pony was in a frenzy of panic. They were running around screaming in despair. The only ones who were calm were the mane six, Spike and the mayor. They were in the process of trying to calm the panicked citizens.

"STOP!" Twilight shouted in 'The Royal Canterlot voice'.

The ponies froze.

"I know that you're all afraid." Mayor Mare spoke "We all are, but everything is under control."

"How?" one Pegasus asked.

"Allow me to explain." Twilight stepped forward. "An army is being built as we speak. The Princesses are sending a Calvary to take in any volunteers."

"When?" The same Pegasus asked.

"We're already here." A voice spoke.

"Shining Armor!" Twilight called in joy.

"Hello Twili!" He returned.

After embracing in a quick hug they began the business. Twilight watched as he became a soldier before her very eyes.

"I am Shining Armor, former Captain of the Canterlot Royal Guard and Prince of the Crystal Empire." He announced. "I am here for any pony willing to assist in the war." He eyed the crowd. "We mostly need soldiers and ponies for the medical field, no training is necessary. It will be provided for you once you join the ranks." He eyed them again. "Any pony?"

It was obvious many were reluctant to step forward.

"Any pony who joins will be paid well." He spoke. "You're families will also gain a large...compensation in case you...don't return."

"I'd like to volunteer." Mr. Cake stated.

"Honey, no!" Mrs. Cake cried. "Think of your kids!"

"I am." He answered. "That's why I'm doing this."

A soldier stepped up and began to ask questions.

"Name?"

"Carrot Cake."

"Position?"

"Soldier."

"Are you sure about your decision?" The soldier pony asked. "Any pony able to take your responsibilities?"

"I can." Pinkie announced. "I can help with the babies and shop."

"Are you sure on your choice?"

"Yes."

"Welcome to the army." He pointed opposite Fluttershy. "Stand there."

"I volunteer." Big Mac spoke.

"Name?"

"Macintosh Apple."

"Position?"

"Soldier."

"Are you sure about your decision?" The soldier asked. "Any pony able to take your responsibilities?"

"Ah can take care of the farm." Applejack announced. "If'n y're sure you want to do this."

"Eeyup."

"Welcome to the army." He pointed to Mr. Cake. "Stand there."

"I volunteer." A feminine voice spoke. "To be a soldier."

"Lyra!" Another spoke. "You can't be a soldier!"

"Of course I can." She stated. "Can't let all of the stallions hog the glory."

"Then I vol..." Bon-Bon didn't get to finish, she was silenced by a well placed kiss.

"Who's going to take care of our home?" Lyra asked. "You're the only one who can ."

"Fine." Bon-Bon conceded. "Just come back to it."

"I will." Lyra assured before gaining a lustful look. "Just be ready to give me a good horn waxing when I get back."

The blush Bon-Bon had was amazing.

"I hope that you'll accept one of zebra kind." A smooth voice spoke. "For I heal and only battle with my mind."

"...I assume you want to join the medical field?" Shining asked, not familiar with Zecora's speech. "Any experience?"

With a simple nod of the head she was in.

From there on there where no more volunteers. The Cutie Mark Crusaders tried but that was quickly shot down. No pony else wanted to step forward. Shining Armor did his best trying to coax out a few more to join, none did.

A scaly claw went into the air.

Pinkie began to shake.

"I feel another doozy."

"I volunteer."

There was a short pause and gasp of surprise.

"Name?"

"Spike."

"Wha-Spike no!" Twilight spoke frantically. "You can't join a war."

"Twilight I need to." He stated seriously. "No pony else will."

"Well I'm sure one of these able bodied ponies will volunteer." Rarity spoke before turning to the citizens. "Any pony?" She eyed the masses. "Come on, any pony!" There was silence. "Your all really going to let a baby fight!?"

"Well, why don't you volunteer?" The Pegasus from earlier challenged. "Your one of those Elements aren't you?"

Shining Armor stepped forward to his sister's friend's defense.

"As one of the Elements of Harmony." He stated. "She has already been drafted, as have the rest."

"We are?" Fluttershy asked frightened.

"Yes, but not as soldiers." He spoke. "You all will be working directly under Princess Celestia, Luna and Twilight from here."

"See that Spike." Twilight spoke happily. "You don't have to volunteer, you can just assist us here."

"No." He stated without meeting her gaze. "I...want to be a soldier."

"Don't be ridiculous!" Rarity begged. "War is no place for you Spikey-wikey."

Usually Rarity would have had Spike as putty in her hooves. Not now, he was too determined to let his love stop him. It was the very thing pushing him forward.

"I'm not Spikey-wikey." He stated shocking every pony and himself. "I'm a dragon and I have to protect my hoard."

"Then you have nothing to fear Spike." Twilight spoke relieved. "The Changelings don't want gems but..."

"No, you." He spoke, trying to get her to understand. "All six of you, you're all my hoard."

They were touched by the sentiment. They knew that to a dragon, the hoard is everything. It was more to them than even their very lives, it was already greater than the lives of others.

But they couldn't just let him go into a war. It was far to dangerous for a baby, dragon or otherwise.

"Spike..." Twilight faltered looking for an answer. "You're too young."

"Dragons age and mature differently." Shining stated.

"Shining" Twilight shouted in disbelief. "How could you?"

"Who will help Twilight?" Fluttershy tried.

"Owlicious." Spike answered.

"How would we send and receive letters from Princess Celestia?"

"Owlicious." Spike answered again.

"What about your pet Peewee?"

"I trust you all." He answered.

"Why must you do this?"

"I need to do it!" Spike shouted. "I need to do something meaningful in my life." He sighed "I can't just assist you forever you know, besides, you'll learn everything eventually."

"Spike..." The girls eyes began to water.

"Spike I forbid you from doing this." Twilight stated as her wings flared.

"You can't stop me." He stated painfully.

This was killing Spike on the inside. They've always protected me. He wanted to protect them, keep them safe, not hurt them. Why won't they let me protect them?

"I can." Her horn began to glow threateningly.

Shining Armor stepped forward. He took a spot in between Spike and Twilight.

"Twili, we need him." The older Unicorn spoke. "We need all the soldiers we can get."

"But he's just a baby!" She cried. "You don't have to take him!" She spoke desperately. "Do this as a favor to your little sister." Another thought. "You and Cadence must have some pull..."

"Princess! Twilight! Sparkle!" He shouted in a tone she wasn't familiar with, not from her brother. "Are you asking a soldier and a Prince to break the law in a time of war?"

"Shining?" She was intimidated.

"We are heavily outnumbered." He continued. "Our forces have already been stretched thin." He pointed to Spike "He wants to fight for Equestria just as much as them." pointing to Big Mac and Mr. Cake. "He wants to fight for you."

This was no longer her big brother speaking to her. This was the Prince of the Crystal Empire. The Captain of the Canterlot Royal Guard. A soldier.

"Then let me go with him." Twilight begged.

"As a Princess you have other responsibilities then fighting." He eyed the other elements. "You all do."

Twilight bowed her head in defeat. The hot tears in her eyes finally broke free.

"I hate you Shining." She whispered just loud enough for him to hear.

That cut Shining Armor deep, deeper than any sword could hope to cut him. He wanted to beg his sister for her forgiveness but he couldn't, he was a soldier first.

"I'm truly sorry." He stated monotonously.

"Buck your apology!" She shouted.

The stallion looked down at his sister and knew she wouldn't budge on the subject.

"I'm sorry Spike, but I legally can't allow you to join." He stated. "Twilight is right, dragon or not, you're still a baby. Unless she allows you to join, their's nothing I can do."

"Okay." Spike mumbled.

"Say your goodbyes, tomorrow you'll be shipped of as soldiers of Equestria." Shining ordered to the soldiers. "If any pony changes his or her mind, we will be taking these ponies away tomorrow, come and register then."

There were no more volunteers.

Spike had tried everything he could think of to convince Twilight to allow him to enlist. He tried from a patriotic point of an Equestrian trying to defend his home. He tried to tell her his very instincts were telling him to enlist to protect his hoard, them. He even tried to ask the other mares for assistance, but they decided not to get in the middle of it.

"No Spike!" Twilight stated for the umpteenth time.

"I given you over a dozen good reasons on why I should enlist Twilight!" Spike spoke in frustration. "Give me one on why I can't!"

"Spike, I can give you several good reasons." She spoke without looking at him. "But now is not the time, we have a lot to prepare for."

"I just want to hear one!" He demanded.

"So would we, Twilight." A regal voice spoke.

The ponies and dragon turned to the voice in shock. It was Princess Celestia and Luna.

"Princesses!" Twilight spoke in shock. "When did you-How long have you-"

The Princesses shared a small chuckle at the young Alicorn's expense.

"I didn't think any pony but Pinkie could sneak up on a pony like that." Rainbow Dash whispered.

"Old habits." The Princess stated. "Now, onto Spike."

"You don't honestly think he should enlist, do you?" Twilight asked in shock.

"He would be a great asset." Princess Luna spoke.

"He's just a baby?!" Rarity exclaimed.

"His scales are tougher than any pony hide and his claws can rend flesh." Luna took a moment to look at his claws before adding. "When sharpened."

"Plus his fire." Celestia spoke. "It can work both offensively and as a vital source of information transportation."

"So you want him to be courier?"

"When necessary."

"And a fighter when necessary." Luna added. "Twilight, war is upon us and we can not keep making decisions based on personal feelings. That will cost more lives than could have been saved through sacrifices of the heart."

"It's a painful reality." Princess Celestia stated. "But we must think of all our subjects before we ever make a decision regarding one."

"So you want me to let Spike go into a war?!" Twilight asked without meeting their gaze.

Princess Celestia knew how much her student regarded her, just her opinion was like law to her. If she said 'Yes' to her, then she would allow Spike to join the war. Princess Luna knew this as well, she also knew that Twilight held her in high regards as well, though not as high as Celestia. If she told the mare to let the dragon join, she would. Neither of these were good in the end. The decision had to be solely Twilight's and uninfluenced.

"It is your choice." Celestia spoke. "Spike is your ward."

Twilight was conflicted, she wished one of the Princesses had just gave a direct answer. It would make everything much more bearable for her, if only just.

"Why don't we just use the Elements to blast those bugs away?" Rainbow asked. "The Elements are in the Tree of Harmony, we can go get them and..."

She was silent when the Princess of the Sun and Moon turned their gaze to her. It was unnerving how their gaze pierced through her.

"Even if thou were to retrieve the Elements, it would do thee no good." Princess Luna spoke. "Tis not a weapon, but an instrument to keep a certain balance."

"Nightmare Moon, a corruption of the mind and heart." Celestia stated. "Discord, a being of unbalance. They would have worked on Tirek because of the unbalance in magic he wrought."

"But not a war." Twilight whispered.

"No." The Princesses answered.

"Why not sick Discord on them?" Pinkie asked. "I'm sure he'd love to go all chaos on their flanks."

"We do not wish to...over stimulate him into his old ways." They spoke uneasily. "He will serve where can."

"Excuse me, Princesses." Rarity spoke. "If you don't mind me asking, how did this war situation come about? Surely this isn't something done on a whim."

"You're right Rarity." Princess Celestia spoke. "This isn't out of the blue. The Changeling Queen met us and...

~Flashback

Princess Celestia and Princess Luna sat on their respective thrones. Their guards at the ready for anything, as were they.

Before them was Queen Chrysalis, ruler of the Changeling hives. Her Hive-lings, but guards and children to her, stood as ready as the ponies.

"Why has thou come here Queen of Changelings?" Princess Luna asked. "It should be clear that your presence is unwelcome."

"I have come here for negotiations." The Changeling Queen spoke in her echoed voice.

"Why should Equestria negotiate anything with those who once tried to invade?" Luna asked coldly.

"I did what I had to do to feed my children, no matter the costs." The Queen answered.

"So an invasion?" Celestia asks calmly.

"My kind are starving in the Badlands and your Kingdom is literally overflowing with love." The Queen stated calmly. "It was an act of desperation."

"You still haven't told us why you've come."

"I've come seeking seeking one thing, or rather one pony." She spoke. "We come for Princess Mi Amore Cadenza."

"What?!" The Princesses of the Sun and Moon exclaimed.

"The Princess of love personified." The Queen spoke. "Unlike Shining Armor, she is an Alicorn, she is immortal. With her, the Changelings will never go hungry again. My children and those of any and all Queens after me will have no reason to go against Equestria."

"No." Princess Celestia stated with finality.

"Then we will take her!" Chrysalis shouted.

"Thou art mad!" Luna shouted. "Your Changelings are weak, starving and have little to no resources. You and your kind will be crushed under Equestria!"

"That was true, some time ago, before the wedding." The Queens stated with a smirk. "We are stronger than then and our numbers are immeasurable and can easily be replaced with little time. As for resources, we require nothing like the items you ponies need, we are our own weapons and your ponies will be our resources, our food."

It was a dark truth, any pony captured by the Changelings would be nothing but livestock.

"And where pray tell tell did you suddenly get such strength?" The Night Princess asked.

"I must thank the lovely couple." She stated, confusing the Alicorns. "We were hit by pure love, did you honestly think it would have no affect on the Changelings?"

Her statement was pretty sound. It was something that they should have looked into.

"Enough of these games." Princess Celestia spoke, finally losing her patience. "We will not give away a pony to be used as a livestock and we will not be intimidated."

"Then let there be war." The Queen spoke before disappearing in a flame.

~End Flashback

"That was several months ago and we have been fighting ever since." Princess Celestia stated sadly.

The ponies and dragon sat in silence to absorb what they had heard. It was hard to believe that a war could be declared over a simple meeting.

"How come nopony has ever heard of the war?" RD asked.

"We've been trying to keep the citizens from panicking and keep the peace." Princess Luna answered. "A happy community is a successful community."

"Wait a second." Pinkie Pie spoke, breaking the silence. "You said that as a Princess, you had to, and I quote- 'We must think of all our subjects before we ever make a decision regarding one' right?"

"I did."

"Then why didn't you give them Princess Cadence?" Pinkie asked. "Where you trying to call her bluff?"

"No Pinkie, I would never make a bluff or any kind of joke when war is involved." There was a flash of pain across her eyes that showed her age. "I've seen to much war to ever find humor in it." Princess Luna nodded in understanding. "I can not simply give a pony away, they are not items." Princess Celestia spoke. "I'm sure she would have made the sacrifice, but that would have brought about problems of their own." She turned to her former student. "Can you tell me what they are?"

Twilight wracked her brain for any of the suitable answers the Princess was looking for.

"The Crystal Ponies would no doubt be upset about the loss of their Princess who helped save them from Sombra." She answered. "It would have caused a stir, which...could have grown into a full out rebellion, which could have led to a civil war."

"And?" Luna pressed.

"Other nations would no doubt take notice of our situation and would try to take advantage of it." Twilight continued. "It could lead to war against them."

The Princesses nodded in agreement.

"There was also no proof that the Changelings would have kept their word and not attack." Pinkie stated. "They didn't Pinkie promise."

"Either way, a war would have ravaged these lands." The Sun Princess sighed. "That is the opposite of what Equestria represents. It is a place of freedom, equality and prosperity."

"Does thou not think that is worth fighting for?" Princess Luna asked. "Spike does."

All eyes turned to the baby dragon who had been forgotten. He had been silent while he listened to the ponies and Princesses talk.

"Shining Armor said that we were already recruited, what did that mean?"

"You ponies, and dragon, have faced off against beings that threatened our home." Princess Luna stated. "Did you not think we wouldn't call upon you for this?"

There was a moment of silence as they considered the words. Shining Armor and his soldiers came for volunteers, for them to be drafted was a shock.

"We are all going to have to do our part." Princess Celestia stated. "Ponies will have to have their lively hoods changed for the sake of a better tomorrow, these are the sacrifices of war."

"What sacrifices?" Rainbow asked. "Just point me in the direction of those bugs and we can crush them like we did in Canterlot! Seriously, we took out a hundred of them easy."

"Do not be cocky Rainbow Dash!" Princess Luna ordered. "It will get thee or those considered friend killed. What thou faced were but starving children while you were at your peak, what is coming will not be that easy."

"What we will be facing are armies of Changelings that outnumber us a dozen to one, at best." Her sister spoke. "For every pony we lose there forces can replace and we cannot."

"Whoa."

"If it's any consolation, you all will not often be placed on the front lines like soldier, but in places were you can be of the most use." Princess Celestia spoke with a small smile. "Maybe healing or commanding, someplace of where you will do the most good."

"And Spike?" Twilight asked, hoping he would be placed beside her.

"The choice is still up to you."

Everypony and dragon watched as the mare struggled with herself. They knew it was one of the, if not the hardest, decision, she had ever made. She was basically deciding between her family and her country.

"Fine!" She shouted. "He can join!"

There was no jumping for joy or cry of celebration. They all knew what was at stake, even Pinkie kept with the respectable silence.

All Spike did was embrace the mare with an emotional hug which she returned.

"Thank you." He whispered.

Recruitment

Recruitment

Spike awoke early the next morning. So early, that even the sun had yet to arise.

He looked over from his basket to see that Twilight was still sleeping. This was a rare thing, him awakening before she did. Her face contorted into worry and discomfort. It made him feel bad that he was partially the cause of it.

Since he was basically alone with his thoughts, he decided to contemplate. His thoughts wondered to the choices he has made, as well as the ones he will make.

It's all for them. He thought in the end. As if those four words were all the reason he needed for the choice he made.

As silently as possible, he crawled from his basket.

The baby dragon took one last look around the room for anything to take. Spike knew that whatever he needed would be provided. But there was nothing against taking something of sentimental value.

He only took a picture of the mares, nothing else.

Spike looked over at the resting mare once again.

"Goodbye mom." He whispered so low, he knew she'd never hear while asleep. "I love you."

Spike arrived at the meeting post for the volunteers. He saw that the mares and stallions were still waiting idly for the arrival of more volunteers.

"Hello Spike." Shining Armor greeted. "Here to see the soldiers off?"

"Actually I'm here with permission from Twilight to join." He spoke with pride. "I can officially enlist as a soldier of Equestria!"

"Really?" Shining asked in shock. "You actually convinced Twilight?"

Spike lost the pride and began rubbing his neck bashfully. "Well...the Princesses showed and...." Spike began trailing off, hoping Shining wouldn't press the issue.

Luckily he did.

"Where is everypony?" Shining asked as he looked around. "Any of them to see you off?"

"No, I left while Twilight was still asleep." Spike answered as he looked away in sadness. "Didn't want to cause her any more stress than she had from last night."

Shining Armor nodded in understanding. He remember when he left to join the Guard, while his dad and sister had been watching pride, his mother was more...watery.

"I guess that's why we had to come as a surprise." A voice spoke from behind.

Shining Armor and Spike turned to see the main six, minus Applejack, who was seeing her brother off.

"What are...?"

"You didn't honestly think we'd let our little hero leave without a proper goodbye, did you?" Rarity asked.

Spike didn't say anything, he just smiled and rubbed away the tears that were forming in his eyes.

"Since we can't have a farewell party I made a farewell cake!" Pinkie spoke as she presented a whole chocolate cake. Grabbing a chunk with her hoof, she shoved it into his mouth. "Now make sure you listen to your Drill Sergeant and play nice with the other soldiers." She stated as she fed him another slice. "Unless of course the other soldiers want to cause trouble, then you have to kick their flanks."

"Alright that's enough cake for Spike." Rarity spoke as she pulled him away and began washing the chocolate off of him. "You're representing Equestria so make sure you're always at your finest."

"Enough of the mushy stuff." Rainbow groaned as she snatched Spike away. "He's off to be a soldier, not his first day of school." She turned to the baby dragon. "Make sure you come back at least twenty percent cooler, or I'll put you under my training."

"Don't try and scare him now." Twilight stated as she pulled Spike into her hooves. "I love you too." She whispered as she gave him a tight hug.

The ponies and dragon were all lined up in a single line, not like they needed another. No pony else decided to volunteer, not a good sign.

"Alright ponies!" Shining began loudly. "And dragon!" He added. "As I mentioned yesterday, all necessary items will be provided for you!" His horn began glowing and moved several booklet towards the soldiers in waiting. "This is one such item, this booklet contains the basics that you will be needing to know." They began reaching for the booklets, only for them to be pulled out of range. "This is your last chance! Go home now, or get on those chariots!"

Hesitantly, the stallions and mares began climbing into the chariots.

"Spike, you come sit with me." Shining called as he made his way towards another chariot.

The one they entered was empty, minus them. The pony pulling didn't count, he was too focused on his task.

"This is it." Spike said slightly nervous.

"So Spike, what do you know about the military?" He asked. "Not the stuff about it's purpose, I mean the fundamentals, the mechanics."

Spike wracked his brain for an answer, but he couldn't come up with what the stallion was asking for.

"Nothing." He answered.

"Well, unlike other nations, there is only one branch of Equestrian military." Shining began. "There used to be three branches, but they have not been used since the peace Equestria has been in under a united rule." He paused to rethink his statement. "Minus the odd, evil creature here and there. I won't bore you with the details of those branches you won't be entering, so I'll just give you the rundown." His horn began to glow as he summoned one of the booklets he had handed out.

Equestrian Army Ranks - Lowest to Highest

Regular soldiers -

Private-A hoof soldier.

Private First Class-A semi-experienced hoof soldier. No real authority, but shows exceptional skill.

Sergeant-Commanded squads made up of nine troops.

Sergeant First Class-Second in command of a Lieutenant with no Second Lieutenant present.

Junior Officers -

Second Lieutenant-Lieutenant in a mandatory tour of duty before completing his training. Second to a Lieutenant.

Lieutenant-Second in command of a platoon, squad leader. Commanded platoons composed of four squads (36 troops).

Commander-Commanded companies made up of four platoons (144 troops).

Captain-Commanded regiments made up of four battalions (2,304 troops).-second in command of a specialized platoon.

Officers -

Master Sergeant - (For specialized units.)

Warrant Officer - (In charge of logistics and armament for a battalion)

Senior Officers -

Major (Second in command of a colonel, or in charge of a specialized platoon)

Colonel (In charge of a Battalion - 4 in each brigade)

General (In charge of brigades - There are 3 for each force.)

Critical Officers -

High Commander (Master of Force - Air Force, Land Force, Magic Force, Copper Force - pony reserve force.)

Chief of Arms (Master of the Equestrian Armed Forces)- Role of Princesses, or Prince in rare cases.

Field Marshal (Optional Rank, awarded for extraordinary feats. This rank is the highest in Equestrian Military.

"The way you move through rank is with experience and with your actions during each task." Shining explained. "Though a field promotion or one personally granted by Royalty is the exception. Still, a pony can be a soldier for several years and not move a single rank. Or a recruit can move through several ranks in under a year."

"How is that fair?" Spike asked.

"It's not, but you won't put someone good with a sword but dimwitted in charge of another would you?" Shining asked. "A soldier has his place. Be it a fighter, a leader, or just a extra pair of hooves." He motioned towards the volunteers. "Ponies like them, who have no call for fighting, don't usually move higher than Private First Class. Can't put a baker in the army and call him an Officer, though it's not impossible."

Spike thought this new information over. It was simple, yet so effective.

"Why are they called regular soldiers?" Spike asked. "Does it have to do with the Royal Guards and Wonderbolts?"

"Yes and no. The Royal Guards are just that, protectors of royalty, not that they really need it." Shining answered, while whispering the last part. "And the Wonderbolts are actually more like show ponies, though many have enlisted. There skills will be well used as a Special task force, such as search and rescue."

"The Shadowbolts?"

"The same, but more for subterfuge based tactics."

"Who are the High Commanders?" Spike asked.

"Currently, there are only two." Shining answered. "Spitfire, former head of the Wonderbolts, has been chosen as the High Commander: Master of Air Force. It was an easy choice seeing as she trains the greatest flyers in Equestria."

"Is the other magic?" Spike asked.

A single thought flew threw both their minds at that moment. I'm sure Twilight would love to meet him or her.

"Yes actually." Shining chuckled. "Sir Fancy Pants. The only High Class Arch-Mage in all of Equestria." (I'm not sure why I chose him, people usually pick him as some former high level magic user, retired from active duty. It was easy to go with.)

"Huh." Was all Spike said. "Would have thought it'd be Twilight herself, or even Discord."

"Well, Royalty have there own positions." He answered. "And Discord..." The Prince didn't know what to say until something caught his attention. "We're here."

"Where is here?" Spike asked as he looked from the other side.

"Tarturas on Earth."

The place that Shining Armor was talking about, the training grounds, was not what Spike had imagined.

Spike and crew were now arriving at the camp like base were they would be training. The fly had been silent for the other volunteers since there was not much to talk about.

As they landed Spike saw more chariots, full of what he assumed were more volunteers from the other cities and towns. There were some ponies he recognized, and same he didn't.

Once every pony had finally arrived they were instantly lined up.

"WELL LOOK AT WHAT WE HAVE HERE!" A strong voice shouted. "YOU HAVE TO BE THE MOST PATHETIC BUNCH OF RECRUITS I'VE SEEN YET!" Every pony and dragon turned to see the one who was shouting. A green Unicorn in the standard armor outfit walked and studied them. He was bigger than Big Mac and had an angry look to him. His cutie mark was a muscle rippling foreleg. "I AM YOUR DRILL SERGEANT, YOU WILL CALL ME SIR, AND NOTHING ELSE!" He stated. "DON'T BOTHER TRYING TO TELL ME YOUR NAMES BECAUSE I DON'T CARE, YOU'RE WHOEVER AND WHATEVER I CALL YOU." He paused to gouge their reaction."MY JOB IS TO TURN ALL YOU FILLIES INTO SOLDIERS OF EQUESTRIA, IS THAT UNDERSTOOD?"

"SIR, YES SIR!"

"NOW I ALREADY DON'T LIKE YOU BUNCH AND WHEN THIS IS OVER!" He had a cruel smile. "YOU WILL HATE ME." He lost the smile. "I DON'T CARE ABOUT YOUR OPINION OF ME!" He stated. "MY JOB IS ONLY TO MAKE SURE YOU ALL MAKE IT THROUGH, IS THAT UNDERSTOOD?"

"SIR, YES SIR!"

"NO, IT IS NOT!" He snapped. "AS YOU ALL KNOW, EQUESTRIA IS SO OUTNUMBERED IN THIS WAR THAT WE HAD TO TAKE IN YOU STRAYS AND WE'RE STILL OUTNUMBERED! I DON'T EXPECT MANY OF YOU TO SURVIVE THIS WAR AND I DON'T EXPECT THOSE THAT DO TO COPE WELL." He began marching up and down the ranks as he eyeballed the recruits. "HOW MANY OF YOU KNOW WHAT YOUR GETTING YOURSELVES INTO?" He asked. "HOW MANY ARE WILLING TO SACRIFICE LIFE AND LIMB? I BET SOME OF YOU JOINED FOR SOMETHING LIKE GLORY OR RESPECT!" He continued. "IF YOU STILL HAVE LEGS TO WALK, WINGS TO STILL FLY, STILL HAVE YOUR HORN, THEN YOUR LUCKY." He looked away. "BUT MOST OF ALL, IF YOU STILL HAVE YOUR WITS...then you are blessed."

The recruits didn't know what to say, they had a feeling that 'nothing' was appropriate.

"Sir?" Somepony spoke up, bringing him from his thoughts.

"ARE YOU ALL READY TO WHATEVER EQUESRIA ASKS OF YOU, EVEN SACRIFICE LIFE AND LIMB?!" He asked.

"YES SIR!"

"ARE YOU READY FOR ANYTHING?" He asked.

"YES SIR!"

"ARE YOU STILL READY FOR ANYTHING?"

"YES S-"

"WRONG!" He shouted as he smacked the nearest pony, a stallion Spike didn't recognize, he fell and didn't get back up. "YOU'RE NEVER PREPARED FOR ANYTHING UNLESS YOU PREPARE FOR EVERYTHING, UNFORTUNATELY WE CAN'T DO THAT." He sighed. "THE TRAINING HERE WON'T BE WHAT THE FULL COURSE IS FOR THOSE WHO SPENT THERE LIVES TRAINING FOR MOMENTS LIKE THIS." He began explaining. "I almost feel sorry for you." He whispered. "YOUR TRAINING WILL BE RUSHED, BUT IT WILL COVER THREE BASICS OF OUR MILITARY. COMBAT, SURVIVAL, HARMONY!"

The ponies and dragon tried to piece the last one together. They understood the combat and survival, but Harmony? War was the opposite of that, the Princess had told him herself.

"EACH OF YOU WILL BE ORGANIZED AND EQUIPPED WITH THE NECESSITIES, THE STANDARD TOOLS AND ALL THAT." He stated. "ANYTHING ELSE IS A LUXURY AND WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED, THIS IS TRAINING FACILITY, NOT A SPA RESORT." He stopped his march and turned to them. "NOW LET'S MAKE YOU ALL PRESENTABLE."

Spike was in line with a bunch of other stallions and mares.

"ALRIGHT PONIES, JUST BECAUSE WE'RE IN DESPERATE NEED OF YOU DOESN'T MEAN WE NEED TO LOOK IT." T

Each of them were placed in a chair with a pony behind them with a pair of clippers. Everypony had their mane cut very low, but left enough on the side to look like a miniature Mohawk.

"What am I supposed to do with this?" A stallion behind Spike asked. "Oh, I know."

The stallion's horn began to glow as the scissors enlarged until they were shears. He placed them onto Spike's top spine and clipped it. The dragon watched as it fell to the ground.

That don't feel right. He thought.

It didn't hurt, there were no nerves in his spines, but he did feel it...leave him.

Each of them were lined back up.

"NOW THAT WE HAVE YOU ALL LOOKING PRETTY, WE'LL BE GOING TO THE PLACE YOU ALL WILL CALL HOME FOR THE NEXT SIX MONTHS."

They were brought to a strong looking barrack. It was large and...sterile, there were no defining features to the place other than it's emptiness. It was obviously designed as a necessity with no comfort in mind, maybe to motivate the ponies to do their best as leave as soon as possible.

There were a total of twelve bunk-beds, six on both halves of the barrack. In the far back was a door that led to the bathroom which held one shower head and toilet for each of them.

"Excuse me, sir?" One of the mares spoke. "Where will the ladies be bunking?"

"YOU WILL ALL BE BUNKING UNDER THE SAME ROOF, KEEP YOU ALL EQUAL AND ALL THAT MESS." He answered as if he hadn't cared and he probably didn't. A few stallions began leering at the mares in the room, some of which returned with obvious bedroom eyes. "THERE WILL BE NO HANKY-PANKY UNDER THIS ROOF, UNDERSTAND." It wasn't a question. "YOU GOT AN ITCH, WELL TO BAD FOR YOU THERE AIN'T AN OINTMENT."

That caused a few stallions to snicker, bad idea. The Drill Sergeant turned a cold eye to each of them, shutting them up fast but not fast enough.

"Oh, somepony must think I'm a comedian huh?" He asked only to be greeted with silence. "What, none of you think I'm funny?" He asked almost sincerely, none took the bait. "Here's a riddle, what wishes it was dead but doesn't have the luxury?"

"Ugh, is it-" The stallion never finished.

He was headbutted by the Drill Sergeant and fell to the ground unconscious.

"THE NEXT ONE OF YOU THAT OPENS HIS BUCKING MOUTH!" He answered. "GOT IT?"

"SIR, YES SIR!"

"LISTEN AND LISTEN GOOD." He ordered. "YOU WILL NOT LAUGH UNTIL I SAY SO. YOU WILL NOT CRY UNLESS I SAY SO. YOU WILL NOT SO MUCH AS BLINK UNLESS I GIVE THE OKAY, UNDERSTOOD?!"

"SIR, YES SIR!"

"YOU WILL HAVE THE REST OF THE DAY TO YOURSELVES." He shouted. "SOCIALIZE WITH YOUR NEW COMRADES OR WHATEVER, I DON'T CARE, EVERYTHING WILL BE PROVIDED TO YOU SO DON'T BOTHER ME, UNDERSTAND?"

"SIR, YES SIR."

"DISMISSED!"

The Drill Sergeant left the barrack, making sure to slam the door on the way out. Everypony, Spike included, let out a sigh of relief.

"I call top bunk!" Lyra stated as she made her way towards an empty bunk.

Spike had tried to socialize with a few ponies but many were too... focused. All he could get were simple answers or ones involving military.

"SURPRISE!" A voice shouted as a pair of hoofs wrapped around him.

Spike felt as if his heart was about to pop. He turned and saw a pony he didn't recognize, a Pegasus. From the colorful badges she wore, she had rank. Private First Class.

"Yes sir, ma'am?" Spike asked.

If it wasn't from her differences, Spike would have sworn he was staring at Pinkie Pie. Her coat was all white, but her mane was yellow. Her cutie mark was three balloons, just like Pinkie's, but they were all purple.

"I'm Surprise." She introduced. "I've seen that you're having trouble so I'll help you." She spoke. "You are to head there to get your supplies." She pointed. "After that, you are to get acquainted with... whoever, you'll need all the friends you can get." She warned. "They could be the ones that save your life, or let it end."

With that the Pegasus flew off.

Shows out of nowhere, gives vague but helpful advice, then leaves as if nothing happened. He thought. Either Pinkie grew wings or multiplied...again.

Spike was about to do as he was told but was stopped. Not by a pony, but by a sight, but a griffin.

He was doing incredible and complicated looking routines. They were very graceful but each move looked calculated to the second. Even the heavy armor did't seem to make much of a difference. Spike hadn't been this mesmerized by an air trick since he met Rainbow Dash.

Once the tricks were finished the griffin came down and Spike went meet him. Up close Spike saw the armor was just a helmet and breast plate. Spike also saw that 'he' was a 'she', a she that he was familiar with.

"Gilda." He spoke aloud, this caught her attention.

"What do you want dweeb, I..." She paused as she scanned him. "Wait, you look familiar, have we met?"

That's right He remembered We never met personally.

"I'm Spike." He put his claw out to shake. "We haven't been introduced, but we've met."

"Where?" She asked, ignoring his claw.

"In Ponyville." He answered.

"Your from that place?" She asked in disgust. "Nothing but dweebs there."

He ignored the insult. "I'm Twilight's assistant and a friend of Rainbow Da..."

He was cut off by the sudden lack of air. Gilda had grabbed Spike by the throat and lifted him from the ground.

"Listen dweeb." She growled. "I don't want to hear about those ponies and especially not Rainbow Crash, got it?" He struggled, but he got the 'yes' out. She dropped him when he did. "What are you doing here anyway?" She asked. "Did they send you over for that friendship crud?"

"No." He answered sorely as he rubbed his neck. "I joined the Equestrian army, I want to fight."

"They let a baby fight in the war?" Gilda asked skeptically. "I'm starting to think I chose the wrong side."

"I came here to train like you." He stated slightly offended. "That way I can help."

"Like me?" She asked. "Please, I'm Private First Class." She spoke, laughing. "I'm just here to teach these dweebs a few routines before heading back into the field." She motioned to the Pegasi scattered watching them. "You on the other hand are just a newbie dweeb."

"Oh." He sighed. Spike wanted to make a remark about her rank being at the bottom, but decided against it. "Well...why did you join?"

"What is this, an interrogation!?" She asked tensely. "I joined the pony army, big whoop!" She snapped. "You all should be happy to have me on you side!"

Gilda's out burst had gained the attention of a few ponies around. They began surrounding the two expecting a fight to break out. One of the ponies happened to be the Drill Sergeant.

"WHAT'S GOING ON HERE?" He asked

Both Gilda and Spike froze.

The Drill Sergeant eyed the two, he focused on Gilda. She flinched under his gaze, Spike noticed. She must not be on their good side at the moment he thought.

"WHY AM I NOT SURPRISED THAT YOU ARE IN THIS?" He asked as he glared at the griffon. "AT THIS RATE..." Spike began to tune him out as his advice assaulted him.

He remembered Surprise's words. 'They could be the ones that save your life, or let it end.' Spike involuntarily grabbed the black gem hanging around his neck.

I need friends, not enemies. He thought.

"It's my fault sir." Spike stated cutting the Drill Sergeant off. "I caused this."

This caught both by surprise. The Drill Sergeant knew it was Gilda and was confused, so was Gilda. She was sure he'd let her take the heat, it's what she would have done.

"WELL THEN ROOKIE!" He bellowed. "YOU NEED TO BE PUNISHED!"

"Punished?" He asked terrified.

"YOU DIDN'T THINK WE'D GIVE YOU SPECIAL TREATMENT DID YOU?" He asked. "Oh I know exactly who you are, Spike, hatched by Twilight Sparkle, the former student of Princess Celestia and now a Princess herself. WELL THAT DOESN'T MEAN ANYTHING HERE!"

Spike gulped, he knew he was in trouble.

Spike was exhausted, the Drill Sergeant had made him do several strenuous training exercises. Running, push up, pull ups, et-cetera. As soon as he had finished one he was put on another until he collapsed. They only let him rest while in the up of a push up position.

Now he was in the bunker, he was to stay in there with the rest of his platoon. His bed was uncomfortable and he was lonely. They even told him that he would get no supper.

Every pony was now asleep but him.

Well, no time like now. He thought as he pulled out a quill and piece of paper.

"SURPRISE!" For the second time that day Spike almost jumped out of his scales. "How are you doing...Spike was it?"

"Yes, it's Spike." He answered as he held his chest. "I think you'll finish me before those Changelings get the chance."

There was a pause before they shared a grim and awkward laugh. Poor choice of words.

"I saw what you did." She stated kindly. "It was a nice thing to do."

"Thanks." Spike said. "I just remembered what you told me about needing friends."

"Make friends, a comrade can harm just as much as they can help." Surprise spoke.

"Yeah, I..." He didn't get to finish.

The barrack doors burst open as Gilda barged in. She gave a glare at Surprise before ordering her out. The griffon turned her attention to Spike.

What is she...?

His thoughts were cut off by her assault. The griffon clamped a claw over his mouth and held him down. The strength was enough to both silence and freeze him in fear.

She leaned in showing a angry face.

"Listen dweeb." She growled silently. "I don't know what you're pulling but don't think I owe you anything!"

With that she released him and left. He watched her leave and she hadn't so much as looked back.

What was that about? He thought.

Deciding not to focus on the griffin, he went back to his letter. He looked over on the bed and felt something, looking at it he saw two large objects.

Two large diamonds.

They were still covered in dirt. Obviously a sign of just being dug up. He didn't care, they were food, they were something to eat.

"Like I said." Surprise spoke as she leaned into the barrack. "They can help or harm."

He quickly and silently ate them, they weren't enough to satisfy him but they would hold him over.

It was time for him to finish his letter.

Dear Elements of Harmony

I have began the training of a soldier and I hope you aren't still upset Twilight. I want to make you proud and protect you all. The Drill Sergeant is a slave driver but I feel he means well. I...

I think I've made a friend... He thought about it. And something at least something close to one.

Love Spike.

Spike let out a small breath of green fire and turned the letter to ashes. He gave a small smile as he watched the ashes fly to their destination.

Now it was time to sleep.

Author's Note

1) Once again, I know little about the military. These ranks are from a fanmade MLP website, though I did add on some extra to them. Here. It was either that or Star Wars, easier to follow, but very little ranks.-Like six of them.
2) If you have anything to say, let it be constructive or nice. Anything else, you can keep to yourself.
3) If anyone can come up with a proper training regime for Spike, that would be greatly appreciated.