Rum, Powder, and a Scarred Drake

Chapters

Sunk, Captured and Rescued
"Let's get one thing straight."
Learning the ropes
Supply run
Tales from a Drake's crew
Sea Pepper

Sunk, Captured and Rescued

Out in the tropical sea, as waves crashed and Ships sailed. A lone galleon was out at sea, headed to the Capital of the Equestrian colony Mamajia. This galleon was named the ERN Trottington. It was one of the normal standard class brigs of the Equestrian Royal Navy, but was certainly nothing like the navy’s huge flagships, the ERN Princesses Pride and the ERN Shining Armour. But the brig was carrying far more important cargo than any other ship in the sea.

The Brig had passengers on board. Very special passengers, since it was none other than three princesses of Equestria, the former bearers of the elements of harmony, and to have more pressure, three sisters of the Bearers also came along for the ride. That’s some pretty important people to protect, especially with threats from not only the Gryphon’s Navy and their colonies; even though the two have finally come to a truce. But diseases, rats, horrible ship food and sleeping conditions. And worst of all, Pirates.

Yes, Pirates stroke fear in the heart of any sailor of any navy of any species. Whether they be Pony, Gryphon, or any other in the two rivalling naval powers. These bands of species would attack any ship for ether gold or merchandise to sell to fulfil their desire for alcohol and coitus. Showing no mercy to those who opposed them, and where the lowest form of scum on the planet. That’s what the Ponies and Gryphons in power thought of anyway.

But Celestia herself did fear they would be attacked by pirates but as they were soon to arrive in Port, she felt that the cruellest of the cruel wouldn’t be able to hurt her or her little ponies.

She was on deck right now, along With Princess Luna, Princess Twilight, the former bearers and the Cutie Mark Crusaders. “Have you enjoyed the trip so far?”

“Eeyup, nice to get off of tha farm from time ta time.” Applejack said.

“Of c-c-coarse I’ve h-had a wonderful-“Rarity was cut off as she placed a hoof on her mouth and her cheeks turned green. She quickly ran to the side and threw up over the sick.

“Sorry Princess, My sister’s not used to the ocean.” Sweetie Belle said. Now seven years had gone by since the Cutie Mark crusaders were the little fillies that always got into trouble. Although they still do, they were nearing adulthood. Sweetie Belle’s mane and tail had gotten longer but stayed the same style. She had gotten her cutie mark in singing, which was a clef note surrounded with a ribbon of music bars. She was nearing the height of her sister.

Rarity groggily came back, hiccupping little.

“I must apologise your majesty. P-please forgive me.” Rarity bowed.

“It is quite alright. I know how the sea can affect others. On many trips like this there is always at least one who cannot take the motions.” Celestia said.

“Hey Princess. I’m just curious but why do you have to go to Mamajia?” Scootaloo asked. Like Sweetie Belle, she had also grown, and surprisingly at the same height. She still kept her purple mane messy and ruff, her wings had grown out a lot better, no longer the little wing she had seven years ago. She had also earned her cutie mark. It was a red scooter wheel that was on fire.

“The governor of Princesston wanted to talk to me and Luna about more Guards for the colony, and possibly more Money in the budget.” Princess Celestia told her.

“Is that all? Then we won’t be there for long will we?” Applebloom asked. She has also aged and gotten taller. She was Also taller than her older sister, although she no longer was wearing her pink bow. Her mane did still seem to be in the same style, and had gotten her Cutie mark. It was a picture of a hammer and a spanner crossed over a red apple.

“Yes, but this is manly for business. But you still get to see another land, and what life is like in Mamajia.” Princess Celestia replied.

“Don’t ‘cha worry Applebloom. We’ll be back in Ponyville before ya know it.” Applejack said. Applebloom smiled, knowing her sister was right.

“Ship off the Port bow!” the group looked up to see the sailor in the crow’s nest shouting down to the crew. Princess Celestia was the first was to walk over to see what it was, the rest soon following. They gasped as they saw what seemed to be a frigate slowly approaching them. The frigate then turned sideways, its starboard cannons aiming at the Equestrian brig. Celestia herself gasped as the Gryphon flag could be seen flying over the masts. The captain of the brig soon came up to the group with a worried expression.

“Princess, I ask of you to seek shelter in my quarters. Please! Before one of their cannons hits one of you." The group didn’t need any more persuasion, as they bolted for the cabin. Scootaloo and Applebloom closed the doors but not before seeing the deck get blown to pieces and the shrapnel hitting some of the panicking sailors.

Now all the group could here was gunfire, cannons, screaming, yelling and explosions. They were shaken left and right as the brig was torn apart. All were cowering as they fear one of the cannonballs might hit them.

“Rarity, I’m scared.” Sweetie Belle said as she held onto her big sister.

“So am I Sweetie Belle.” Rarity said as the two siblings hugged each other tight.

Soon the gunfire stopped and the boat stopped getting shocked with cannon fire. The group could hear cheers coming from outside, and the double doors opened to reveal the captain standing there with his head down. The group slowly got up thinking that the enemy ship had been taken care of.

“Well done Cap-“

Princess Celestia stopped talking there and then when the captain fell to the floor, blood slowly flowing onto the floor. A hole in his spine. Behind him was a gruff looking Gryphon holding a sword, with a whole bunch of other gryphons cheering on deck. But none of the ERN sailors were standing or breathing.

“Well, looks like we found the jackpot.” The Gryphon said as he laughed, the group shivered, and chattered their teeth with fright. Not knowing what these gryphons planned to do to them.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Soon the group of ponies were forced onto the ship, and watched as the ERN Trottingham was finally sunk before them. As they were forced into the Gryphons quarters, which had a strangely fancy desk and a huge Gryphon navy flag behind it. The group soon saw the gryphon captain walk back in, now wearing very formal clothing and sitting down at his desk. He rang a bell and a gryphon waiter then came in carrying a tray of tea and a meal that any of the ponies would love to have.

“Who are you?” Twilight spoke up.

“Well, that really doesn’t concern you does it? You my captives and have to do what I want.” The Gryphon said smugly, trying to knock them back down.

“Why do you have a Gryhpon Navy flag hanging up if your pirates?” Twilight asked again. He again laughed.

“Pirates? Those rats? No, no, no, we are buccaneers. Working for our country but under the disguise of pirates.” He responded. Celestia herself had heard of stories of these tactics but had never actually seen it written down in the Royal archives or the Equestrian Royal Navy’s tactics.

“…What do you plan to do with me and my little ponies?” Celestia asked.

“It’s quite simple your ‘majesty’. The truce between both of us agreed to stop trying to fight for control of this sea. But if I bring the rulers of Equestria, we Gryphons could make any deal we wanted.” He said as he temptingly took a bit out of his meal, but since it was meat, most of the ponies nearly gagged, fainted or threw up. The Captain then called for some of his crew to take them to their cells.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

The next week was living Tartarus. The food they were given was crust, black bread and weak ale. They were cramped into two

different cells just outside of the captain’s quarters. These cells there were for the captain’s delicate and special prisoners, but the group were taking turns as to who would sleep on the wood bench and who would sleep on the floor. The bars had been sprayed with a potion to make it anti-magic, so the princesses and unicorns couldn’t escape. But the captain understood the importance of the day and night, so every morning and evening, the Gryphons took ether Luna or Celestia, put them in magic and wing restraints. And took them on the deck so they could change the day and night. Each of the group having a different experience.

Rarity herself was about to break, her fur was dirty, she had barely gotten any beauty sleep, and her normal clean, curly mane was messy and tattered. She was just about ready to break the cages down to get a hair brush.

Rainbow Dash tried all her might to fight against the Gryphons from since they were captured, but ultimately failed. She was also dealing with a more personal matter. She hadn’t stretched her wings and had a good flight in days, and it was starting to worry her. What if by the time she got out of here, her wings would be nothing but limp bones?

Fluttershy was so scared of what the gryphons would do to her and her friends. But she was more concerned about her animals back home. She had asked ponies to look after her animals, but if she goes, they might wonder where she’s gone and go loose onto the citizens of Ponyville. But there has also angel, he was a handful and the other ponies might decide to get rid of him if she doesn’t come back in time.

Applejack herself put up a fight, but the slow energy in the food they were given was slowly picking away at her. She thought that if she was save, at all, then she wouldn’t be able to help on the farm anymore because her legs would be down to the bone.

Pinkie Pie’s mane had gone to the straight hair when she thought her friends were sending her away, she had a thousand thoughts going through her at once. Would she see the Cakes again? Would she see her family again? Would she be trapped in the ship forever? Would she ever see the two Cake twins grow up? And the most important one. Would she be able to through a party for anypony ever again?

Princess Luna was trying as hard to not look beaten, but on the inside, she was slightly scared. She knew the relationships between the two species and nations hadn’t been the strongest. But she didn’t know what the gryphons would do if they were able to get their way.

Scootaloo looked at her wings regularly, thinking that at the rate they were going and the food they were receiving. Her wings would get smaller again. Which reminded her of all the years of bullying and teasing from ponies. She had started to have nightmares again, at first it wasn’t as often but they slowly became frequent.

Sweetie Belle’s main fear wasn’t the food, or the conditions of the cell. But the captain had been eyeing her a lot. And feared that he might have his way with her.

Applebloom was usually thinking of how she may never be able to live her life like she wanted. Open up a workshop, make a decent job, and maybe meet someone and get married. But the marriage was for later in her life. She mainly wanted to do what she wanted to do. But something else dragged her down. Ever since she was a filly, she wanted to get her cutie mark. And now she finally got it, it would go to nothing if the gryphons would take her and the ponies away.

Princess Celestia constantly thought about her kingdom and her subjects. If she and her sister and former student were forced into handing over their kingdom, what would the gryphons do to her little ponies? And how long would they have to suffer because of this.

And finally, Twilight Sparkle. She herself was the most scared. She thought the gryphons would do horrid, terrible things to the ponies around her. And also all the other ponies in Equestria, thinking of all the horror and destruction that would be caused. She also thought that these Gryphons would also try to…get them in bed. She tried her hardest to fight against these thoughts but they all came back, torturing her.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

At the beginning of the new week, the day started out like it would on the ship. The group sat in their cells. The captain watched on deck as his crew slaved over the ship, heading for their destination. The captain was thinking all morning if to finally…unstress himself. He finally decided enough was enough and began to walk to the cells with his two guards. A yell was screamed from the crow nest.

“Ship off the Stern!”

“Someone get me a spyglass!” The captain yelled. A sailor soon came up and held the spyglass in front of the captain. He quickly swiped the spyglass out of the sailor’s talons and quickly zoomed on the ship. He saw what looked like a brig of some sort, and was waving the gryphon navy’s flag. He turned towards the sailor and hit him on the head with a spyglass.

“You idiots! That’s one of our own!” The captain yelled. He groaned and continued on his path to the cells.

Meanwhile on the other ship, a tall figure wearing a shirt and a leather robe, with leather pants and boots. Wielding a sharp sword, two pistols, and a rifle slung on his back, looked through his spyglass and watched as the Captain yelled at his crew and walked on. The figure grinned and put his spyglass away, before looking down at the crew.

“It’s working! Full sail! We need to get close fast!”

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Meanwhile the ponies all tried to stretch in the limited room they had, before the captain barged the double doors open. The ponies covered their eyes from the blinding light, slowly adjusting to finally seeing the sun’s rays after a day without it.

The Captain pointed to Sweetie Belle and whistled, the two guards opening the cell door and grabbed Sweetie Belle. She immediately struggled against the grip, with the ponies getting up to grab her back, but the guards had already locked the cell door on them. All the ponies got up and looked in worry as to what the captain would do to her.

“What are you doing!?” Sweetie Belle asked, still struggling.

“Well, when a male like me is out at sea for a long time. He needs to fulfil certain…desires.” He said with a grin. Sweetie Belle screamed and kicked rapidly. The guards now having troubles to even hold her straight.

“Oh shush, when you’re on my ship, you follow my orders. So save your enegy for the bed, because-“.

A large boom went off as the ship was pummelled from the Port bow, causing the ponies and gryphons to all fall down. Gunshots and screaming could be head outside. The captain quickly got up and shouted.

“You two! Put her back in the cell. And you, I’ll be back for you so don’t think this is over.” The captain pointed at Sweetie Belle. The guards quickly opened the cell and threw her in before quickly closing.

The captain and the two guards barged out to see his crew being overtaken by ponies, Gryphons, and many other races in tattered and normal clothes. The Captain heard two thuds and a shot, he turned to see his top two guards dead on the deck while a sailor was looking worried.

“They have scouts!” the sailor yelled.

The captain then saw a gryphon swing on a rope and landed on two of his sailors. The gryphon then pulled out a pistol with two barrels and shot the two. As some sailors surrounded him. He quickly out two swords and slashed them all. Not without breaking a sweat.

The captain started to worry, and was even more scared when a huge Zebra crashed onto his deck, shaking some of his sailors off of their feet. The zebra pulled out a huge hammer, and smiled and the sailors surrounded him. He laughed and started to pulverise them with his hammer cracking bones and skulls.

The captain slowly started to walk back, scared that he might be next. Soon explosions rocked the boat as a mare with googles came onto the deck, pulling out three pistols and killing the three sailors around her. She then pulled out a sword and charged at more of the sailors.

Two sailors walked up and grabbed the captain’s shoulder. The captain snapping out of his trance and looked behind him.

“Sir! Let’s get you onto the rescue boat!”

But before anything, a sailor went up and stabbed one sailor, before pulling out a pistol and shooting the other in the head. The captain jumped back as the sailor was engulfed in a green flame to reveal a changeling.

“You slimy-“The captain was about to reach for his pistol until he heard a voice behind him.

“I wouldn’t do that if I were you.”

He turned to see the gryphon, pony and Zebra standing there all smiling. The gryphon swinging his swords, the mare aiming both her pistols, and the zebra spinning the hammer in its hooves. He soon found himself surrounded by the four different creatures.

He then saw his ship and almost fainted. His masts on fire, his crew either dead or on their knees while the pirates cheered, smoke emiting from a gap the four creatures had made. He was praying to get back to his country.

But he saw something he had never seen, a phoenix literally flew past his face and back into the air. He looked at it with aw as it flew around a burning mast before finally swooping down towards him. He saw the bird fly over and go over the smoke.

The last thing he ever saw was a figure and a purple sword right between his eyes.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

The group of ponies heard the cries of victory, thinking the gryphons had beaten whatever had attacked them. Sweetie Belle grabbed the nearest pony next to her. Which was Rainbow Dash.

“No. please, don’t come in.” She whispered quietly.

Rainbow soon wrapped her hooves around the teen, clenching her tight. But the group heard a different voice outside this time.

“Alright, be ready for anything behind those doors. And fire only when I say or if they fire back.”

The voice seemed familiar, but it also had gotten more deeper.

The double doors flunge open as they saw a group of different species holding pistols. But one stood out from the rest. In the middle, was the figure that had been on the pirate boat earlier. Slowly lowering his rifle.

“Holy Hell.” The figure said.

The group of ponies stood shocked, total silence fell, before Twilight slowly jittered out the words.

“S-S-Spike.”

"Let's get one thing straight."

In the golden oaks library, as the morning began with the sun rising. A smaller purple and green dragon just started to arise, rubbing his eyes and crawling out of his basket. As he stretched a tiny orange bird flied down towards the dragon. The dragon saw the little bird chirping on his bed and held one of his claws down for the bird to jump onto. He soon raised the bird up to his eyes.

“Morning Peewee, you sleep okay?” the dragon asked.

The little bird responded by looking up chirping happily.

“Well I had a good one, some issues like-“

“Spike! Can you come down here please?” a voice was heard from downstairs. The dragon named Spike sighed and set the bird on one the drawer before making his way downstairs.

“No rest for the wicked, as they say.” He said to himself.

As he reached downstairs, he saw a purple unicorn reading a book with her magic, with a finished plate of breakfast in front of her. She moved the book out of the way to see the drake.

“Morning Spike.”

“Good morning Twilight.” Spike said as he made his way to the kitchen to make breakfast for him and some food for Peewee.

“Be sure to get ready straight away, we have to go and help Fluttershy with her animals today.” Twilight yelled from the table before using her magic to chuck her dishes in the sink and walked away to gather stuff for the day.

Spike meanwhile made a quick breakfast and some food for Peewee, ran back to his room and set the two plates down. Peewee flied down and dove into the food.

“He, at least you’re there for me Peewee.”

The phoenix tilted his head in confusion.

“Oh, it’s nothing. Come on, let’s finish this and head off.” Spike said. The bird agreeing, both of them digging in. they both finished, grabbed a bag full of backup supplies. Even though Twilight said was unnecessary. Spike, With Peewee sitting on his shoulder, walked downstairs, ready for the job he had today.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

As the powerful Gryphon ship was blown apart and was sunk to the bottom, the crew cheered as they relaxed in their plunders with rum and coin. The group of ponies were brought onto the ship, with unhappy banterer from the crew of this new ship they knew not the name of. As they were directed to the captain’s quarters by the Earth pony with goggles, they had a slight feeling of relief. They had been taken away from the cruel Gryphon captain, but were now in the presence of not only pirates, but an old friend who they had no idea of what he had done since…then.

They entered the cabin and was amazed. On one wall was an array of weapons, some that they had never seen before. Mainly swords and firearms. On the other side, an array of flags where hanging up. One was the Equestrian Royal Navy flag, another a Gryphon Navy flag. And an arrange of other flags, possibly for other Powerful Navies. All over the floor and desk were books, lots and lots of books. And a huge map in the middle of the desk with some ink and a feather.

But the one main obvious thing, was an angry looking drake. Rifle along his back, sitting in his chair. With a phoenix next to him looking equally angrily.

“Spike…” Twilight tried to come up with something to ask. But she had nothing. Not after what happened.

“Well great. As my life is going well right now. The past keeps coming back to haunt me. Fate really hates me doesn’t it?” Spike said out loud.

“…is this is what you have become? A pirate? A thief, a murderer?” Twilight asked.

“Well, what did you except for me to do? Dance like a bucking idiot in the street for money in front of the greediest bastards? Not for me thanks.” Spike responded.

“Well, you wouldn’t have had to go if you didn’t-“Twilight said.

“Oh, this brings back memories. Being told what I should have done because little miss princess knows all so bucking much. I’m not a little baby dragon any more. Hell, I was nearly you guys age and I was still treated like I just learned what 2+2 is.” Spike pointed out, the grown up Peewee nodded in agreement.

Now to the Cutie mark Crusaders and the Princesses, they sensed Spike was mainly letting out his anger at the mane six. The Cutie mark crusaders were told a safe version of what had happened, the princesses knew what had happened from Twilight’s eyes.

Although, they always had some doubts about it. Princess Celestia decided to break it up before the argument ended them up in dinghies in the middle of the ocean.

“I believe we have some bigger matters to discuss. Like where what we shall do.” Spike calmed down and got serious.

“Okay. So where do you think you need to be dropped off?” Spike asked.

“Mamajia is where we were headed. Where are we currently?” Celestia asked.

“Right here.” Spike pointed to the right side of the map, slightly north of a Gryphon colony. Mamajia was on the opposite side of the Sea. Celestia paled when she saw how close they were to the colony. She started to breathe faster when she saw how far Mamajia was. She slowly calmed down and asked.

“Spike, I normally don’t negotiate with pirates. But if you help us get to Mamajia, then you and all your crew will be rewarded.” She said, this got Spike’s attention. He pondered before coming up with an answer.

“Alright, I’ll take you to Mamajia.” Spike said.

“Oh, Spike, thank-“Twilight was interrupted.

“But let’s get one thing straight. If I hear anything from the crew or my band about you attacking them verbally or physically, and all fingers point guilty to you. I will not resist to leave you in a boat or an island and sail away.” He said, pointing mainly at the mane six.

The six gulped in fear and nodded quickly.

Now the CMC watching this all noticed something. Not only had Spike changed, but he must have been hit hard to threaten the elements of harmony in front of the princesses. Maybe it had something to do with what happened.

“Alright. Now I’m going up to man the wheel and explain to the crew what’s happening. I’ll ask one of my band to help you to your new quarters. And don’t think you getting anything special because you’re wearing a crown. If you want to get to Mamajia, then you’ll have to follow the rules and the conditions the crew has to go through. Including beds and food. Although do feel free to come on up to the top deck if you’re not tired. Get to see what life on the other side is like.”

Spike finished before getting up, leading the group to the double doors and leading them outside. Peewee taking this chance and lying out of the cabin and up to the crow’s nest. While the Gryphon with the swords was waiting.

“Guerrier, can you show our guests to the beds? I have to go and address the crew.” Spike asked.

“Of Course.” Guerrier said with a slight Prench accent.

“Thanks.” Spike said as he walked up to the wheel, leaving the group with the Gryphon.

“If you would follow me.” Guerrier said as he opened the hatch which lead below deck. He held it open as the group all walked down and entered the lower deck. Guerrier lead them to some hammocks and wooden bunks with mattresses on them.

“Have a good rest ladies, you probably deserve it after staying on that ship for so long.” Guerrier said as he left the group be.

The mares where left alone inside the wooden sleeping areas, with Princess Celestia soon addressing to all.

“Well, it seems we are stuck here. But do not fear, we shall be home soon, if Spike keeps his word. Let us rest our backs now, the floors where not the best to sleep on back there.” Celestia said as she herself laid on one of the beds and stretched herself out. The Mane Six soon followed ether choosing the blankets or Hammocks. While Luna and the CMC where still up.

“Well, I shall see to top deck, and see if the Moon needs to be lifted.” Luna said as the left the CMC by themselves.

“So what do you girls wanna do?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“I say we should go top deck, have a look at what real pirates are like. Plus I get to stretch my wings.” Scootaloo asked.

“Ah’ll go up, but to see if they need any help. They may be pirates but it don’t mean they don’t need help.” Applebloom said.

“Okay, let’s go.” Sweetie Belle said.

As the three pushed the hatch open, they looked around to see most of the crew paying attention to Spike.

-And if anyone of you are caught trying to have your way with the guests. Rese here has agreed to teach you some manners.” Spike yelled, the giant zebra from before nodded and smirked, sending shockwaves of fear throughout most of the crew.

“Alright then, why are you still standing around? We’ve got some passengers who need to be delivered.” Spike said.

Most of the crew dispersed and went back to many of the jobs aboard the ship. Adjusting the sails, checking the cannons, scrubbing the decks, all that. The CMC soon left there little hiding spot and walked up to the wheel where Luna and Spike where currently talking.

Spike pointed to the crow’s nest and Luna nodded before flying up to raise the moon. Spike then noticed the three Mares that had just arrived.

“Hey girls. Wanted to see what it’s like on a pirate ship?” Spike asked.

“Well, yeah. But also some other things.” Scootaloo said.

“Oh?” Spike became curious.

“Yeah, we wanna help ya’ll out around here.” Applebloom said.

“Hmm…alright then. I see no harm with that.” Spike said.

“Cutie Mark Crusader Pirates!” the three girls announced. Spike just chuckled, they may have gotten older but something’s never change.

“Okay. Scootaloo, how about you help with the rigging up top? There’ll be a Changeling up their named Viva. Go ask her what you can do and say Spike sent you up.”

“Roger.” Scootaloo saluted before flapping her wings and flying into the sails.

“Applebloom, one of my first mates could use an assistant to help with her machines and designs and all that. She should be below deck but you go right instead of left and find a door with some wrenches on it. Her name is Gear Wrench and tell her I sent you down to help.”

“Alrighty then.” Applebloom said as she ran off for the lower decks.

“And Sweetie Belle, do you know any maritime songs?” Spike asked.

“Yeah, I learned some before we were captured. Why?” Sweetie asked.

“How about you start up a tune to get the crew going? Nothing gets them working faster than a catchy tune.” Spike said.

“Alright, I’ll try. Just don’t expect any miracles.” Sweetie said as she cleared her voice and started the song.

I thought I heard the Old Stallion say:

"Leave her, Johnny, leave her."

Tomorrow you will get your pay,

And it's time for us to leave her. The old Stallion say:

Leave her, Johnny, leave her!

Oh, leave her, Johnny, leave her!

For the voyage is long and the winds don't blow

And it's time for us to leave her.

By this point as Sweetie sung loud, some of the crew had noticed. And not only did they think it was sung beautifully, they soon joined in with Sweetie Belle.

Oh, the wind was foul and the sea ran high.

"Leave her, Johnny, leave her!"

She shipped it green and none went by.

And it's time for us to leave her.

I hate to sail on this rotten tub.

"Leave her, Johnny, leave her!"

No grog allowed and rotten grub.

And it's time for us to leave her.

By now the entire crew was singing, creating what seemed like a positive atmosphere as the crew sailed for Mamajia. Spike smiled to himself from behind the wheel. The ship soon slowly sailing into the now lifted Moon, finishing the song.

We swear by rote for want of more.

"Leave her, Johnny, leave her!"

But now we're through so we'll go on shore.

And it's time for us to leave her.

Learning the ropes

Spike was walking next to Twilight with Peewee on his shoulder. They were walking through the town on their way to meet the rest of the bearers. It seemed like a normal walk for Spike, ponies saying hello to the two, but mainly saying hi to Twilight. Innocent acts or going about their business, the population of Ponyville was peaceful.

Spike looked around to see if there was anything really interesting to look at. But it just seemed like a normal, not crazy day in the little town. As he started to just look at his feet and count his steps in his head. He looked up and saw something which immediately drew his attention. He walked over to the building and looked up.

It was a poster, one that had the picture of a Stallion on it. He seemed to be wearing a vest and had a giant hat, his grin symbolising all evil in Equestria. Below his picture it said wanted and 10,000 bits under it.

“Spike! What are you looking at!?” Twilight asked as she walked over before noticing the poster. She gasped as Spike asked Twilight a question.

“Who is he?”

“…He’s no one Spike. No one important. Now come on, we have to get to Fluttershy’s.” Twilight said as she dragged Spike away. Although Spike still had the picture of the stallion in his mind.

Scootaloo flapped her wings past the sails and crew that were tending to the ropes. The sea breeze passing through her feathers and fur, her messy mane shaking on her head as she got higher and higher.

She didn’t know what to think of the situation. She was relieved that she would no longer be in chains, but the group she was with now didn’t make that much of a good impression. She didn’t fully trust Spike since from what she had heard. But he didn’t kill or shot them so there was something that gave a good impression. Spike was much mature and awesome looking, as Rainbow Dash would say, then when she last saw him. But she still wasn’t sure about the rest of his crew, and what seemed to be his new group of friends hadn’t really split themselves from the rest to her.

She soon found herself above the ship, and looked around to see nearly nothing but ocean. She could only faintly see the smoke from the ship wreckage that she was glad was sinking to Tartarus. But the faint image became fully black as the moon raised into position.

Scootaloo could still see the crow’s nest as the Changeling lit a lantern. Scootaloo saw Princess Luna and the Changeling nod to each other before Luna descended to the deck of the ship. Scootaloo remembered that her name was Viva and slowly flapped down to the Changeling.

“Hey, Spike sent me up here to help you.” Scootaloo said as she landed down in front of Viva. Viva smiled at Scootaloo as she landed.

“Well nice to see you. You know how to tie rope?” Viva asked her.

“Umm, I know a couple of knots. They only taught us the basics in school.” Scootaloo said.

“Well then. Let me show you how to do a few more,” Viva said as she grabbed a spare piece of rope.

“K…thanks.” Scootaloo said. She felt really arkward right now. She had only met Changelings all those years ago during the Changeling invasion of Canterlot. She knew nearly nothing about Changelings like the majority of ponies in Equestria.

“What is your name?”

“Huh?” Scootaloo asked, knocked back into reality.

“I asked what your name was.” Viva asked.

“OH. It’s Scootaloo.” She said.

“Scootaloo...You must be a fast flyer with that name.” Viva pointed out at her wings.

“Yeah, I’m second best in Ponyville.” Scootaloo said proudly

“Who is the fastest?”

“Rainbow Dash.”

“Ah. The captain has only mentioned few ponies from his past. I believe he said something about a Rainbow once but I’m not sure he went into much detail. Now pay attention.” Viva spoke as she begun to tie the rope in her hooves. Scootaloo paid attention as Viva tied the first knot.

Viva went on for a while until she had taught all the basics. Scootaloo practised the knots, usually messing up on the first go but then nailing it on the second attempt. Viva placed the rope down and flapped her insect wings up into the air.

“Okay, our first job is to light the lanterns so we can see what exactly we’re doing. I can see fine in this dark sky, but you on the other hand...” Viva said.

Scootaloo was about to argue back but she realised that she actually could only see the mast’s outlines and the deck below her light up by its own lanterns.

“Yeah, your right.” Scootaloo said as she also took to the skies.

The two flied above the ship together, although it was really Viva guiding Scootaloo through the darkness as Viva lit the lanterns. The ship looking much more orange then black now to Scootaloo.

“Can you see now?” Viva asked.

“Yeah, I can see fine.” Scootaloo said.

“Good. Then follow me.” Viva said as she flew to the mast closest to the Stern, Scootaloo followed.

“We’ve got to tie up the masts so there at half sail!” Viva yelled to Scootaloo as she landed on the mast and began to tie the sail still. The crew below were pulling on ropes so the sail would stay in place. Scootaloo landed on the other side of the mast and tied her end of the sail.

Scootaloo and Viva were quick to tie the sails and secure them into place for the night. The Ship ready for the smooth sailing it would do for the night. Scootaloo and Viva retreated to the crow’s nest to rest.

“Not bad for a newbie.” Viva said.

“Thanks…So, Changelings have night vision?” Scootaloo asked, remembering Viva’s statement from earlier.

“Yeah, it’s one of our many talents.” Viva said.

“What else can you do?” Scootaloo asked.

“That’s for me to know and you to never know.” Viva said.

“Really?” Scootaloo asked.

“Yep, even the Captain doesn’t know.” Viva said.

Scootaloo kept silent; the situation very awkward for the pony. The only time she had meet Changelings was in the Canterlot Invasion, back then she was only a filly.

“What do you do Scootaloo?”

“Huh?”

“At you home. What is your hobby?” Viva asked.

“Oh, I usually do tricks on my scooter or test my flying skills.”

“Are you good?”

“Are you kidding? I’m the best in all of Ponyville, no one can beat me on the Scooter!” Scootaloo said proudly. Viva chuckled.

“You proud of your title?” She asked.

“Yep.” Scootaloo said. She was about to say something else but she was cut off by a yawn.

“Sorry, I’m probably more tired than I thought.” Scootaloo said.

“You should rest. You and your group have had a tough time.” Viva said.

“Okay; what are you going to do?”

“I’ll stay up here. I usually stay up here on night duty anyway.” Viva said.

“Alright…see ya.” Scootaloo said as she flied down to the deck while Viva scanned the beautiful night sky.

Meanwhile, as this scene was happening.

Applebloom walked through the ship, trying not to lose her balance as the ship slightly wobbled on the sea. She looked around to see the crew being what she expected a crew to do. Poker, drinking, sleeping or just chatting, Applebloom tried to ignore the looks some of the male crew were giving her as she saw the zebra on the ship and she had to tell Big Mac he wasn’t the largest pony she had seen.

She soon found a door were noise emitted from behind it and it had a wrench nailed on the door. She walked up and knocked on the door. She was greeted by the mare from before called Gear Wrench who had a light brown coat with a darker mane and tail.

“Howdy, Spike sent me down here ta help ya.” Applebloom told the mare.

“You know how to use a tool?” Gear Wrench asked.

“Eeyup, all the time.” Applebloom answered.

“Right, come on in then.”

Gear Wrench stepped aside for Applebloom to walk into her workshop, which had a benches all around and a main table in the middle. The room filled with weapons, metal, tools, wood and numerous other pieces of technology.

“Welcome to my little cove.” Gear Wrench said as she closed the door.

“Wow, ya sure got alotta neat stuff here.” Applebloom said.

“Thanks, made all of it myself.” Gear Wrench said back.

“So what can ah help ya with?”

“You can first help me by grabbing that bag over there and bringing it to me.” Gear Wrench said pointing to a small bag in the corner.

Applebloom gladly grabbed the bag with her mouth and walked over to Gear wrench who was holding on a ranged blunderbuss. Applebloom placed the bag on the counter and Gear wrench reached in with a hoof to pull out hoof full of purple powder before throwing it in the barrel, she then grabbed a huge cartridge and loaded the blunderbuss. She then placed it in a container in the back which had a lot of other guns and swords inside.

“Ya make the guns?” Applebloom asked.

“Special ones, not the ones the crew uses, there standard muskets.” Gear Wrench answered.

“So ya make anything else?” Applebloom asked again.

“Yeah, gadgets and such to use. In fact you can help me with a project I’ve been working on. “Gear wrench said.

“Sure, what is it?”

“Well before that I’m going to teach you how to use some of this stuff.” Gear wrench reached for a wrench and held it in front of Applebloom.

“You know how to use this?”

“Yeah, ya just twist tha bolts to screw ‘n’ unscrew” Applebloom said.

“But do you know how to use it with different bolts?”

“Sure.”

“Prove it to me then.” Gear Wrench said and pulled out a piece of wood with and some bolts.

“Screw all these bolts tight and I’ll trust you with a wrench.”

“Alright, this’ll be easy.” Applebloom said and got to work.

It took her three minutes to screw all the bolts in; Gear wrench checked each individual one and smiled.

“I’ll be damned, you did good kid. You might just help me finish the project.”

“What is tha project?” Applebloom asked.

“Ah, ah, ah. I’ve got to make sure your familiar with ALL the tools.” Gear Wrench said with a smile.

“Ok, how many are there?” Applebloom asked.

Gear wrench smiled and pulled out a giant tool box, filled with hundreds of tools and equipment. Applebloom jaw just dropped.

“How many tools do ya have!?”

“Lost count after hundred and fifty, so you’ll have to wait some time until you can help with the project.” Gear wrench said.

“Why do ya need so many tools?” Applebloom said still amazed.

“I’m the ships engineer, never know when you’ll need the right tool. Some I’ve bought, some I’ve stolen, and others I’ve made myself. Now come on, you’ve got some training to do.” Gear Wrench said and began to search for a tool, Applebloom sighed and looked at the tool box.

“Hopefully this doesn’t take too long.”

By the end of the night, she had gotten used to seventy five tools. Some familiar, others new and generally draining on her mental state slowly.

Sweetie Belle walked down the stairs to below the decks, she said goodbye to Spike before going to bed herself. She walked the halls before stumbling on a drowsy Applebloom.

“Hey Applebloom, you get along with that mare?”

“Ya, Gear Wrench made me use and remember how to use seventy five tools.” Applebloom said holding her head.

“Seventy-five? How many tools does she have?”

“Ah don’t know and don’t care right now, I’m more beat then Applebucking before cider season.”

“What’s with Applebloom?”

Sweetie Belle and Applebloom looked to see Scootaloo join them.

“She’s had to remember how to use seventy five tools a once.” Sweetie Belle said.

“Oh, you okay Applebloom?” Scootaloo asked.

“Defiantly not, let’s just get some sleep.” Applebloom said as she opened the door to their rooms.

“Applebloom! Where tha heck have you been!?”

Applebloom cringed from her sisters yell, her mind already deprived.

“We were just helping ‘round the ship AJ, no biggie.” Applebloom said as the three walked in and closed the door behind them.

“Why were you helping them out? Their pirates!” Rainbow Dash said from her hammock.

“But its Spike, and unlike the last ship we were on, none of them locked us up.” Sweeite Belle said.

“Yeah but-“

“Girls, just leave them alone. And get some sleep yourselves, I really don’t want to deal with this right now.”

Applejack and Rainbow looked to see Twilight looking at them with baggy eyes and an irritated look. The two mares grumbled before they and the Cutie Mark Crusaders all jumped into the spare beds and hammocks. Twilight lied back down to sleep, trying to ignore recent events for some good rest.

Supply run

Spike and Twilight were walking on the only pathway to Fluttershy’s house, the image of the stallion still in Spike’s head. So many Questions still through his head. Who was he? What did he do? Why was he wanted? What was his story? Twilight told him it his nothing but he knew better, he knew she was hiding something from him to protect his innocence.

He sighed, PeeWee noticing his master’s sadness and nudging his cheek to try and cheer him up. The dragon smiled and petted the little bird's head, giving him thanks for trying to cheer him up.

“Spike, wake up, where here.” Twilight said.

Spike suddenly noticed they were in front of Fluttershy’s house, and Twilight began to knock.

*Knock* *Knock* *Knock*

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

*Knock *Knock* *Knock*

“Oi! Rise and Shine ya mongrels! Capt’n wants ya on deck!”

The former captives began to wake up to the wooden beds and the shaky floor, the knocking finally stopping and the crew member walking away. The mane six and the cutie mark crusaders each getting out of their respective beds, and noticed both princesses were gone.

“Where’s the princess?”

“Probably up deck with Spike. Let’s go.” Twilight said as she opened the door.

“You okay?” Rainbow asked.

“Not really, let’s just go.” She said as she walked out.

Rainbow and the rest kept silence as they followed her outside to the deck. They walked through the crew’s activities below, either cleaning the cannons or falling face first after a massive hangover.

The group found the stairs and walked up them to be exposed to the daylight, causing many eyes to cringe, becoming blind for a few seconds before the world returned to them. The waves calm and the crew starting their naval duties, they saw the two princesses behind Spike as he held onto the wheel. Their horns glowed as the moon was lowered and the sun was being set in place.

Celestia finished setting the sun into place and looked to see the rest of her group.

“Good morning all.” Celestia said.

“Morning.” They all responded.

“I hope you each got some rest last night. We all deserve it after staying in those cells.” Celestia said as she and Luna walked down to the group.

“Well I try to give my crew the best.” Spike said with a small smile, indulging in himself a little.

“So Spike, you know what we could have for breakfast on this ship?” Scootaloo asked, her stomach rumbling.

“Well, you could have some moldy cheese or bread with maggots. And if you’re extremely lucky, you’ll get some actual bruise fruit.” Spike said in a deadpan manner, needless to say, the group was greatly disgusted by what he said. Rarity turned green and grabbed her head.

“I do believe I’m going to be sick.”

Rarity was hunched over the ship's side and projectile vomiting in less than three seconds after that sentence.

“That joke backfired. Although seriously, all we’ve got left is scraps though.” Spike told them. Although he wasn’t really keen about the elements, he did feel sympathetic for Rarity being seasick.

“And how do we survive on scraps all the way to Mamajia?” Twilight asked.

“Simple. We dock into a harbour and get supplies.” Spike said simply.

“And what’s tha closest harbour?” Applejack asked.

“Well its good news and bad news. Good news for us because we get to resupply and get good food. Bad news, it’s Nahvaa.” Spike said, pulling his spyglass out.

The ponies immediately shot straight up, memories of what could have been haunted inside their minds. This didn’t help Rarity either, she was already sick but memories of that…devilish Gryphon caused her to keep vomiting. Rainbow came up and patted her on the back and tried to help her friend.

“Couldn’t you try and dock in a more friendly harbour?” Twilight asked.

“My crew was already just getting by when I found you. And it’s either dock into harbour or loot Gryphon naval vessels, and I assume none of you want to die?” Spike said. The group slowly nodded, although slightly reluctant.

“Good. Okay I can see the harbour, we should be docking in a few minutes. Now the Gryphon Empire is probably still out for you, or they might not but either way, Pony Princesses aren’t really welcome in gryphon colonies because of nationalism and crap. So you need to stay below deck while I get supplies for the ship, unless you want to die or be captured again. We clear?” Spike said to them. Rarity got up and finally stopped vomiting, not without help from Rainbow and her sister. All the ponies nodded, although Rarity just slightly moved her head.

“Hey Guerrier! Can you come over here?” Spike yelled, The Prench Gryphon landing next to Spike.

“Yes Spike?”

“Get a bucket and help the poor mare over there, she’s absolutely sick.”

“Of course.” Guerrier walked over and guided Rarity and the rest of the group down below deck. Spike looked through his spyglass to see the town start to take shape. And to see PeeWee come back into sight with a piece of paper in claw.

“I wonder how much money those ponies will cost me.” Spike said to himself.

Guerrier got some of the crew and instructed them to get certain supplies while Rarity was laid down in bed. Her friends stayed by her side until Guerrier came back with some buckets, a towel, a glass of water.

“Don’t worry, we’ll be docked soon and hopefully your sea sickness should wear off. “ Guerrier said as he placed the bucket next to the bed on a towel, and gave Rarity the glass of water. She took a sip before vomiting into the bucket again.

“Do any of you have any spells to help with seasickness?” Guerrier asked.

“We would, but we don’t have enough energy to cast a spell right now.” Twilight explained.

“Ah, I see. I am personally embarrassed that a gryphon would stoop to such a level, he was scum and glad he is gone.” Guerrier said, rage in his voiced.

“Oh thank you dear for helping me.” Rarity told him.

“It is no problem miss. I simply do what my captain asks of me, no more.” Guerrier said.

“Excuse me.”

The group turned to see Gear standing there, now equipped with a strange gun and a sword.

“We’re about to dock but the captain wanted to know if anypony wanted to read anything while we’re getting supplies for the trip. I think he was hinting towards you, Twilight.” Gear said.

“Read? Oh yes please! I haven’t read anything since we got captured!” Twilight said as she got excited.

“My sister and I shall join you Twilight, I am curious as to see what a collection of books Spike has earned over the years.” Luna said, this made Twilight even more excited.

“Alright, you three follow me. Also Applebloom, can you make sure the workshop is ready to go when I return? Cleaning up the place or getting rid of the spare wood.”

“Sure, no problem.” Applebloom said proudly.

“Okay, anypony else want to come?”

“No, I’m going to stay with Rarity to make sure she’s okay.” Sweetie Belle said.

“I’ll help to…I-If that’s o-okay with you.” Fluttershy said.

“I would be glad to have your help.” Gurrier said to the two of them.

“Yeah, the rest of us are good.” Rainbow said.

“Okay then.” Gear soon left the room with Twilight, Celestia and Luna behind her. Twilight’s excitement causing Gear to smile.

“Wow, I knew Spike said you loved books but I didn’t think you loved them that much.”

Twilight lightly blushed from embarrassment, but then picked up on something. Spike talked about her to his new friends? She thought he wanted to keep everything in the past, but this seemed now not to be the case. Twilight pondered over this as they walked to the cabin.

Meanwhile, back in the living quarters, The rest of the ponies decided what exactly to do.

“Need some help Applebloom?” Scootaloo asked.

“Yeah thanks.” Applebloom said, the two leaving the room and heading for the workshop.

Now all that was left was Rainbow, Applejack and Pinkie who had nothing to do.

“Well now what do you want to do?” Rainbow asked.

“Oh! I know!” Pinkie said.

“What?” Rainbow said.

“Watch!”

Pinkie bounced out of the room, Rainbow and Applejack following her to see what she was doing. They saw her bounce over to a table that had about four crew members playing poker, One Gryphon, One Unicorn and two Pegasus; one a stallion and another a mare. They all looked to see the bouncing pink earth pony with a giant smile on her face.

“Hi! My name is Pinkie Pie!”

“…Hey.” The unicorn said

“Whatcha playing?” Pinkie asked as her head loomed over one of the pegasus's cards, who brought the cards closer to her chest.

“Poker.” The Gryphon simply said.

“Oh, I’ve never played Poker before, can I play?” Pinkie asked.

The Four poker players looked at each other and talked to each other, trying to at least not let Pinkie hear any of the details.

“Should we let her in?” The Unicorn said.

“We did just start, no harm in restarting.” The Pegasus Stallion said.

“And the captain told us not to hurt them, nothing against interacting with them.” The Gryphon said.

“So yes’s all around?” The Mare asked.

“Yep.”

“Hey.”

“Sure.”

The four got out of their huddle, the Gryphon grabbing all the cards and shuffling the pack again.

“Okay, you can join in.” The Mare said.

“Yay!” Pinkie said as she moved at neck break speed, coming back with a chair before sitting down on it.

“Well go easy on you since it’s your first time.” The Unicorn said as he dished out the cards.

“Okie Dokie Lokie!”

Rainbow and Applejack didn’t even question Pinkies actions as they had already known, don’t question Pinkie Pie. The two then heard a familiar noise, their stomachs growling.

“Oh man, I haven’t eaten a full meal since we got captured.” Rainbow said.

“What ah wouldn’t do ta have a fresh Apple right ‘bout now.” Applejack said.

“Do we even know how long Spike will be?”

“No idea sugarcube.”

“Great, so we’re stuck here starving for Celestia knows how long.” Rainbow complained.

“You got another idea?” Applejack asked.

Rainbow Dash looked around, taking in her surroundings, a plan beginning to formulate into her head. The voice saying ‘Drop Anchor!’ above deck giving the final confrontation of the plan.

“How about we sneak out and get something to eat?”

“WHAT?” Applejack said as her eyes opened wide.

“Shh! Keep it down Applejack! You want to get locked up?” Rainbow said, putting her hooves over Applejacks mouth.

“Have you lost ya mind Rainbow? Ya want to go out into the town that’ll either capture or kill us? And try to get food when we have no bits.”

Applejack said as she took Rainbow's hooves off of her mouth.

“That’s just it Applejack, we’ll disguise ourselves with these rags.”

Rainbow said as she walked over to a box and pulled out two cloaks, throwing one to Applejack.

“We still don’t have tha bits to buy any food.” Applejack said.

“Don’t worry, I’ll just try to scavenge around; this is a pirate ship, there’s bound to be some gold laying around. Meanwhile you look for a way to sneak off of this ship.” Rainbow told her as she put her cloak on, leaving the Earth pony to look for some cash.

Applejack just sighed and put the cloak around her, tightening the hood so she couldn’t be seen. She checked herself to make sure she was covered before looking for an exit.

“Now where in the hay can I find a way off this tub?” She said to herself.

Her answer came when a door opened and the zebra known as Rese walked past her to on top of deck, forgetting to close his door. Applejack waited for the zebra to get out of sight before taking a look into his room. It was a small simple room but what really got her attention was the large window at the back. Applejack slowly walked to it and tried to see if the window would open, making sure to keep an ear out in case Rese came back.

She pushed the window and found that there was enough space for her to jump out of the ship.

“Nice work Applejack.”

Applejack jumped high and saw Rainbow Dash behind her. She gave the rainbow mare a glare as she took a deep breathe while Rainbow quietly laughed.

“Don’t scare me like that again!”

“Sorry Applejack, but your reaction was priceless.” Rainbow said, still slightly giggling.

“Hardy ha, ya got tha money?” Applejack asked.

Rainbow just smiled and pulled out a bag of what Applejack could guess was coins.

“How’d ya get that?”

“Couple of ponies were passed out on the floor, found this next to one of them.”

“Ya stole from a pirate!?” Applejack said, her mind questioning Rainbow’s sanity.

“Relax, we’ll just walk into town, find a quick bite to eat and then hurry back before they know what happened.” Rainbow said.

“…Okay, ah’ll trust ya. But if this stuffs up, ah’m blaming you for it.”

“Don’t worry, I’ve got it under control.”

Rainbow grabbed Applejack by her shoulders and took flight before heading out of the window. She flew low to the water to avoid detection, much to the dismay of Applejack.

“Don’t ya dare drop me,” Applejack warned her.

“I won’t, just gotta land somewhere so we don’t get caught.” Rainbow said, who eventually found a small abandoned jetty. She was quick to fly to the jetty and land, the two ponies making a final check so they couldn’t be identified before walking into the town.

The two strongest and stubborn ponies of Ponyville we’re very close to making a mess of themselves as they walked the street. They saw hundreds of gryphons walk the streets with them; some in military uniform, others with no clothes, and others who were sitting on the streets drunk or begging for money.

Rainbow tried to avoid eye contact with any of the gryphons but struggled to find somewhere they could eat. But a majority of the buildings seemed to be slums or homes. Applejack just kept her head down, trying to ignore any of the gryphons.

The two eventually found a place, a small pub made of brick instead of wood, a small sign that couldn’t be read and was about to fall. The two disguised ponies walked into the sound of talk and music that seemed very weird to them, they had never heard it before.

“This doesn’t feel right.” Applejack said.

“Come on, we’ll just grab something small then get the hay out of here.” Rainbow said, walking up to the counter and knocking on it to get the attention of the bartender. Said bartender walked over with a look of uninterested.

“Yeah?”

“Could we get something to eat here?” Rainbow asked.

“Sure, what you want, chicken, pig, cow, lamb?” The bartender asked.

Rainbow Dash felt like the biggest idiot of all time right now. She was so caught up about getting something to eat she forgot what gryphons liked to eat, meat. Being a pony eating meat was a taboo and wasn’t natural as they were herbivores. She looked back, unable to see Applejack’s face but knowing it was one of complete frustration.

“Well?”

Rainbow looked back to see the bartender slightly irritated.

“What will you have?” He asked again.

“Um…I’m suddenly not hungry, sorry.” Rainbow told the bartender, who just rolled his eyes and went over to another customer.

Rainbow turned fully to face a dark hood but one emitting disappointment. She just lowered her head, and Applejack just sighed.

“Let’s just go.” Applejack said.

“Yeah, sorry.” Rainbow apologised.

The two we’re about to leave but was blocked by a drunk gryphon.

“Hey sexy, ya want *hic*…this body?” He asked.

“Um, no.” Applejack said, pushing him out of the way before walking through.

“Oh come on babe!” He yelled, grabbing the cloak and pulling it off before hitting his head on the floor and passing out.

Needless to say, all the noise stopped as soon as the gryphon smacked his head. All the gryphons staring down the bright orange pony who had just been exposed. She looked back to see some reach for knives or prepare their talons to probably knock HER out.

“Rainbow?” Applejack said, her voice cracking slightly.

“Just run!” Rainbow yelled, pushing Applejack out as the two ran out of the bar, and into the heavily populated streets of Nahvaa.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

“More supplies than usual Spike. You’re boyfriend leave you so you need to eat to feel better?”

“Ha ha, very funny.”

Spike was currently discussing with a gryphon while his crew carries several crates and began to walk back towards the ship. Rese and Gear Wrench standing next to Spike while Peewee sat on his shoulder.

“So you want those receipts?” The gryphon asked.

“Yeah, one of the usual receipts and one with today’s costs included.” Spike reminded her.

“Yeah, Yeah. Just because I’m getting older doesn’t mean I’ve gone mad yet.” The gryphon replied, chuckling as she handed Spike two pieces of paper.

“Thanks again for this-“

Spike was cut off as he heard a scream came from nearby, he and Rese looked around to find the source.

“What was that?” The gryphon asked.

“Peewee, find out where those screams are coming from.” Spike told the phoenix, who nodded before taking off and flying and taking flight. Spike and Rese waited for the bird to answer before it squawked in a direction, which the two turned to and saw Rainbow Dash and Applejack run through the street, follows by several gryphons with knives.

“What are they doing off the ship?” Spike asked, his teeth grinding against one another.

“No clue captain.” Rese said.

“I take it those two are with you?” The gryphon asked.

“Unfortunately. Gear Wrench, you stay here and load the rest of the cargo onto the ship. Rese, Peewee, you follow me.” Spike said.

“Aye, aye, Captain.” Gear Wrench said.

Spike then turned around and ran down the street, his loyal zebra first mate and deadly phoenix behind him.

Rainbow and Applejack ran as fast as their hooves and wings could carry them, trying to outrun the xenophobic gryphons. They puffed what they could, their malnutrition affecting their speed greatly.

“Just keep running!” Rainbow yelled.

“What do ya think ah’m doin’!?” Applejack replied.

“Run, run, run little ponies!” one of the gryphons said.

Rainbow looked behind her and yelped as a gryphon was flying right behind her, swinging his knife around, attempting to stab her. The two turned another corner, and ran through to a jetty, their legs and wings almost about to pass out. They were waiting for pain but instead heard a shot behind them.

Rainbow looked behind her to see the gryphon so close to stabbing her now on the jetty, laying still as blood spilled from his head. She also looked up to see the gryphons focusing on the intrusion, which turned out to be Spike holding his rifle, Rese holding his hammer, and Peewee in the air above the two.

Applejack and Rainbow watched in anxiety as they feared what would happen to the three. The gryphons looking eager to end them so they could chase down the ponies again.

Spike put his rifle away and pulled his sword out as he blocked a shiv from one of the gryphons. He knocked the gryphons arm away and punched him right in the beak, knocking the gryphon out.

Rese laughed as he swung his hammer and knocked three in the head simultaneously, all of them knocked out.

Peewee fought an aerial battle with one of the gryphons, pecking at its face and eyes as it struggled to swat the phoenix off his face, but no luck. The bird too quick for him to it.

Spike blocked another attack from the gryphons, although this enemy was smarter than the previous; with him actually deflecting attacks from the dragon. Spike was focused on the gryphon but out of the corner of his eye could see a gryphon pull out a sword and charge at him from behind. Spike reacted quickly, getting the upper hand of his current foe, knocking the knife out of its talon and pulling out a pistol, shooting his foe into the sea to sink. Spike then threw his sword to his left claw before slicing the throat of the charging enemy, and stepping out of the way as he joined his friend in the sea.

Spike looked to see Rese and Peewee finish the last of the gryphons, and sheathed his sword before looking over to the two mares on the jetty, scared out of their minds at the spectacle.

“Rese, hide these bodies. I’m going to have a talk with these two.” Spike said.

“Yes Captain.” Rese said, as he started to push the dead bodies into the sea.

“Peewee, head back to the ship, I’m going to talk to them alone.”

His phoenix nodded before flying off towards Spike’s ship, the dragon now fully focusing on the mares. He walked up to the two as they stared I fear at the dragon.

“T-thanks for the help Spike-“

“I gave you one order. One simple order for you to follow. Don’t leave the ship unless you want to die…What part of that is hard to understand!?” Spike yelled, causing the two ponies to jump.

“You may be able to do what you want back in Ponyville, but as long as you’re with me, when I give you an order, you follow the order! Is that clear to you two?” Spike asked the two.

“Yes!” both ponies said, fear deep in their voice.

“I don’t even want to know why you wanted to come out here, but I don’t care right now. When we get back to the ship and I’ve calm down, you’ll both get your punishment.”

“Punishment!?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“Yes. When I took you on board, I said you would get the same treatment of my crew. You disobeyed an order, you get the consequences.” Spike said.

Spike took a deep breath before standing tall and walking back towards the ship, Rainbow, Applejack and Rese joining him all the way back.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Twilight couldn’t believe it! She had spent the whole time looking at the collection of books Spike had, and there was still so much more left to read! Twilight thought she had read every book known, being a princess of a nation and all, but now she had a whole new world of books to explore.

Celestia and Luna were entertained by the antics of Twilight, the excitement of a child inside the body of one of the most powerful beings on the planet was something that brought charm to the sight. Although they were intrigued by the books, being thousands of years old they had read several texts and books, and had lost the excitement of new books.

Twilight was ready a gryphon book on the history of the colonies, noting certain points of the gryphons expansion and comparing it with Equestrian expansion.

“I take it you’re enjoying yourselves.”

Twilight yelped and dropped the book she was levitating, and looked over the pile of books she had created to see Spike smiling at her. She pouted at Spike while he just laughed.

“Don’t scare me like that!” Twilight said. Spike stopped laughing and wiped a tear from his eye.

“I was just checking in on you, making sure you girls were comfortable.” Spike said.

“We are fine Spike. I must say this is an impressive range of books.” Luna said.

“Well you spend some time on the high seas, you find something new or two.” Spike said. He then walked up to Celestia and put a piece of paper in front of her.

“What’s this?” Celestia said.

“The bill.” Spike said, Celestia’s eyes widening at the sight, watching in shock as Spike walked away.

“Never said this was free Celestia.” Spike said as he left the three to read.

Rarity felt tired, even though she hadn’t moved all day. Her sea sickness sticking to her like barnacles on ships. Fluttershy, Sweetie Belle and Guerrier tried what they could with what they had but nothing worked. Rarity once again blew chunks into the bucket, which had gone many trips to the upper deck and then once again back below.

“It’s no good I’m afraid, we’ve tried all we could with what we have yet it is simply not enough.” Guerrier said, his Prench accent clearly noted in his sentence.

“O-Oh dear, w-will she’ll be okay on-n this ship? N-not saying I-it’s a-a bad s-ship.” Fluttershy asked.

“As long as we’ve gotten enough fresh water, we should be fine. I hope the captain’s got enough for the trip.”

“Maybe I can help you Guerrier.”

The three looked up to see Rese there, holding a bottle of mysterious liquid.

“Rese, is that what I think it is?” Guerrier asked.

“Yep, sickness potion.” Rese says, as he walked up to rarity and lifts her head from the bucket, holding the potion.

“Drink this and you should be fine.”

Rarity groggily picked it up with her magic, popping the cork before slowly drinking the potion. She felt strange for a while before she began to feel a sense of relief.

“Better?”

“Oh much better. Thank you darling for that potion.” Rarity said, feeling relaxed for the first time since she got onto this ship.

“Do not thank me, thank my sister for her gift.” Rese replied.

“Your sister?” Fluttershy asked.

“Yes, Rese here has a sister that makes potions for him so he’s healthy on the high seas. She also gives a few extras just to help the rest of us.” Guerrier explained.

Rarity began to stretched before beginning to stand up, although being on her back and sick for most of the day, she did so slowly and wobbly. She struggled to stand, being caught by Fluttershy and her sister, before finally standing at her usual height.

“Thank you. All of you. I sincerely appreciate your assistance.” Rarity told them all.

“Guerrier! Rese!”

The group turned to the door to see Applejack and Rainbow walked in the room, followed by Spike who just stood in the doorway.

“I’d like you two to keep an eye on these two. They are to stay here until I think it’s appropriate for their punishment.” Spike said to his crew, who nodded at their captain.

“Punishment? For what darling?” Rarity asked.

“These two left the ship and disobeyed an order I gave you this morning, and since their one my ship, they get punishment for disobeying orders.” Spike explained, Fluttershy, Rarity and Sweetie Belle all looking at Rainbow and Applejack in shock while Applejack looked down in shame and Rainbow looked slightly pissed.

“But as a positive from all this, it’s good to see you up and standing Rarity. You give her the potion Rese?”

“Yes Captain.”

“Good, that should probably last the whole trip. Nice work Rese.” Spike congratulating Rese.

“Thanks captain.”

“Oi captain! We got the stuff you wanted.” A crew member said outside the room.

“Ah, good. Pass it here then.”

Spike was then handed three boxes, each box the rough size of two shoeboxes together, and all three stacked atop each other. He then placed the boxes in the room.

“Alight, here’s some food and water for you.” Spike said, opening each of the boxes, revealing water, apples and oranges. The ponies each going for the fruit, Rarity mostly taking water instead of food. They bit into the food and was relieved to have fresh food in their stomachs.

Applejack bit into the apple, and got a taste of familiarity.

“Hang on a minute! This is from Sweet Apple Acres!” Applejack stated, her friends all looking at the bitten fruit and realizing she was saying the truth.

“Of course, I always get the best for my crew.” Spike said before he left the ponies to head back to the wheel. Along the way, he spotted Pinkie Pie with a huge stack of bits in front of her, his crew mates probably losing their salaries each hand. Spike chuckled to himself and walked back up top.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Spike felt calm as he felt in a familiar setting once more. His grip on the wheel relaxed as his ship sailed out of Nahvaa, The wind across his scales. He looked down as his crew carried some boxes to his cabin, allowing food for the ponies inside his library. He sighed as he looked out into the sea.

“Hey Spike.”

He looked over his shoulder to see Sweetie Belle there.

“Hello Sweetie Belle.” He said.

“So I take it their not having fun.” Sweetie Belle said, pointing to the deck.

Spike looked down to see Rainbow and Applejack Scrubbing the deck with toothbrushes while Rese stood as guard.

“Probably not, feel free to join them.” Spike said.

“Nah, I’d rather sing instead.” Sweetie Belle said.

“Well what are you waiting for then?” Spike replied.

He looked back out to see, smiling as he looked over the horizon as Sweetie Belle sung once more, the crew almost instantly caught up in the tune.

Oh, don't yiz hear the old stallion say say?