MARKEDby HillbeChaptersCourts & bitsIt smellsSpiked timePinkdozerbonus camp firesEpilog BonusCourts & bits//------------------------------// MARKED// by Hillbe//------------------------------// "The Superior Court of Equestria has come to it's decision. You Spike the Dragon is hearby ordered to pay for the damages of Poneyville property and loss of business from your rampage on or about the times and date listed. The court also recognizes your services to Equestria in it's time of need. All other charges are suspended and removed from the record. Mr. The Dragon will not be remanded into custody and he has forty-five days to pay the debt off unless other arrangements can be made with the Superior Court Clerk. The superior Court of Equestria is recessed next case please. " ... Out on the court house steps Spike waddled along looking at the bill for the damages. "How in Celestia can I get enough bits to pay this off?" AJ looked at the bottom line and rambled "Yep, sure a heap of bits there" Rainbow put a hoof to her head "Maybe the Wonderbolts could do a benefit show?" Twilight peeked at the parchment "Don't think so, The order states he has forty-five days to pay, You can't even organize your closet let alone a benefit show" Dashie hovered replying only with a silent stink eye. Fluttershy squeaked "Perhaps a silent auction, If you don't mind, If it's not too much?" As her voice faded to that of a butterfly. ... Rarity sang out "We could dig for gems, It's not like we can't deal with the dirt in a too fashionable way" Twilight calculated "If we work together we will take five and a half days to find that amount needed to pay off the debt and then some" They all let out a collective nod on agreement. Rainbow crossed her hooves "That's all good for you earth ponies digging, But what about us flyers?" Twilight smiled as gears in her head started to spin to life. "We all have our parts to do, Rainbow & Fluttershy can fly in supplies and fly out the trash. Pinkie, myself and Spike will dig while Rarity hunts for the gems." Twilight whips out a book. 'A Gem hunters guide to untold riches ' "Follow this and we'll work together more efficiently." Twilight lectured on and on , I'll set up the schedules. Plan on meeting up at sun rise day after tomorrow. North side of town, Mare Belle street." ... Lone figures walked the streets in the cool of the morning, The sun just peeking over the hills of Canterlot. They gathered at the edge of Ponyville and headed for the gem fields. The big hunt begins. Rarity had her deluxe fold-a-mansion 'camping set', Ordered from an old Mares and Robucks catalog. AJ ,Twilight and Spike had simple ruck sacks and bed rolls. Rainbow with Fluttershy had their clouds. Pinkie pie bounded along pulling her wagon with balloons and streamers flowing in the wind. One hoof after another they clopped and trotted along the trails and paths. ... After a few hours and some horse play they arrived at the gem fields, A barren area of stones ,dirt ,scrub brush ,edged by a few rolling hills on the edge of nowhere special. Twilight called to Rainbow "Check out the area for any diamond dogs, We don't need to be wasting any time with them" Rainbow snapped a salute and launched into the blue "We had enough drama the last time we were here!" Glowing eyes watched from afar as AJ, Twilight and the rest set up camp. Spike laid out the fire ring, stones of different sizes forming a pit filled with sticks and wood, Around the ring were the bed rolls , ruck sacks ,a wagon and opposite of the rustic camping gear was Raritys mini palace so large and fabulous it brought it's own zip code. ... AJ snickered "Gosh darned castle has plumbing and an indoor tub with a shower. Spike huffed a small emerald flame and the camp fire came to life. Spike looked up at the group of Equestrias best and cleared his throat. "I'ed like to thank you all for helping me in my hour of need "Spike paused "It really means a lot to me" AJ smiled " No sweat Spike I know you would do the same for me" "Not a problem Spike "Twilight mused " You've helped all us girls from one time to another, Apple Jack at her farm, Pinkie at Sugar Cube Corner and don't forget all those long hours at Raritys Boutique" AJ winked and slyly said "We all know about those countless late night hours Spike spends at Raritys." Rarity let out a gasp "Apple Jack How dare you..." "Where's the grub!" Yelled Rainbow as she zoomed in for landing. Dashie trotted up to Twilight "Didn't see anything during the patrol" The minutes dragged along. Spike and AJ cooked over the fire as Twilight explained the details of her plan, They settled in afterwards to beans, biscuits, hay hash ,grits and mud black coffee, ... Rarity was aghast of the rustic field rations and hard tack listed as this mornings menu. "Spikey dear, Can you please bring me some of my private stock if you may?" Laughter erupted as they enjoyed their evening meals and fancy feasts. The fire glowed as the campers secured for the night, Cook gear put away, bed rolls laid out and an escort to her palace by the neighborhood drake. The roll call of good nights echoed under the stars. "Good night, MiLady" "Good night, My Spikey Wikey" "Good night, Ya' all" "Good night, AJ, Rariry, Rainbow, Pinkie , Spike get over here!" "Good night, We have an awesome day tomorrow!" "Good night, TwilightRaritySpikeAppleJackRainbowGummyLuna And Maud Where ever you are!" "Good night, everyone." The night was quiet and sleep came easy. The eyes from afar still watched and waited. ... "Git up everypony!" AJ bellowed "Biscuits, Coffee, Hay browns and WE'RE BURNIN DAYLIGHT!" They all opened their eyes to the new day. Rainbow squinted from her cloud above. "Raise and shine!" AJ roared. Dashie grumbled in reply "You rise You shine!" Pinkie popped into Rainbows view "Potato chips?" Her manic face smiled "Breakfast of champions". Rarity raised her sleep mask from her eyes to find a daisy resting on her pillow. They all prepared for the day, Ate some ash and grit encrusted breakfast and carried out Twilights instructions. Raritys gem spell worked wonders . Spikes claws dug along with Pinkies combat spade and Twilights shovel. Rarity marked places to dig as the others dug out jewels like the Equstrian Corps of Engineers. ... Mark after mark, hole after hole. They worked "Twilight my dear, We need to talk about Spike". Twilight giggled "I know where this is going" Rarity marked several other finds "You do?" Twilight popped the dirt out with the magic from her horn. "I saw him put that daisy on your pillow" Twilight said. Rarity looked at Twi "Why a daisy?" Twi continued "He improvised, You don't see any roses growing anyplace close do you? You're worried about his little crush going too far?" Twilight felt she was in a pickle of a spot. Raritys horns magic faded "He's such a dear" She looked at the cold earth at her hooves. "and yet it's so difficult for..." Twilight put a hoof on her side "Give it time I'm sure he'll grow out of it" Rarity bit her lower lip and sighed "think so?" Twilight shrugged her withers and continued digging. ... By lunch time they had piled a small hoard of gems by the camp site. Twilight lectured as they ate lunch. "At this pace we'll be adding another two days, So I'm going to be pairing up everypony differently, Rainbow fly back to Ponyville and get some extra hooves. Spike and Rarity hunt and pre-dig the holes, I'll use a gem finding spell with AJ and Pinkey digging. When we get the extra hooves they can collect the jewels from the holes it might save a little time, Pinkie less bouncing and a little more shoveling" Pinkie spun her hooves raising a dust cloud and rolling her eyes "Okey dokie, smoking holies!" They resumed the hunt ,The field was now an enormous pock marked territory almost the size of Ponyville. Pinkie. AJ and Twilight were finding ,marking and digging and enjoying a little gossip talk. "You're tellin me after all this time he still takes out her garbage as well?" AJ looked at Twilight "Ya let him?" Pinkie swung her combat spade and sighed "Can't be as bad as having him model her new line of infant ware" She giggled "Poor Spikey has it bad and that's good isn't it?" Spike and Rarity were finding, marking and digging. Well he was doing the digging anyway. Raritys horn sparked , sputtered and pulled the mare along in a cloud of dirt and dust. "Wow, Rarity you've got something big!" Spike set off after the out of control Hay puff marsh mellow mare. ... Her horn lead them to a small path high above a river on the edge of nowhere, Rarity marked the spot with an X with her hoof. Stepping back she sat on her haunches. As Spike dug Rarity softly spoke "Ah Spikey ,I've been thinking about your ah em..." Spike continued digging launching clods of dirt and sod over his head. "Well Spike it's about us..."Raritys voice trailed off. Spike piped up "Twilight knows about the daisy, I just wanted to let you have something nice to wake up to" He dug his hole deeper and deeper. An astonished Rarity looked at the digging drake and started to rip him a new one by announcing "It's not proper to enter a ladys room, Even to leave such a gift and what I need to say to you is...". "JACK POT!" Yelled Spike. Rarity looked down at the gems as Spike Excavated the hole even further. Spike looked up his eyes met hers all he could say was "Wow What a haul" and he mused ' She's so dazzling!' ... Rarity used her horns magic to pull the gems from the hole. Stacking them ever so neatly. Spike scampered up to the edge of the trail and plopped himself down. Wiping off the dirt and debris. Spike and Rarity looked at each other , A shared blush ignited across their cheeks like a growing wild fire, They said together "We need to talk" Their eyes blinking shyly ,Beads of sweat forming in the cool air. That pregnant pause before the tempest slowly grew. He leaned in .in a little more, A small bit more. . . 'CRACKEL' The sound of splitting branches and falling dirt caught them by surprise, Spike fell backwards sliding down the far side of the path, Rarity gasped and charged her horn. She raised up off her cutie marked flank. But Spike tumbled and rolled too far out of range, "Spikey!" She called out. .... 'Thud, thud, Thump! splash' A dirt covered Spike tumbled in the river that went to no place special. "You can do this! Swim" He told himself. and he thought 'Dog paddle ! Pony paddle ! Dragon paddle !' He looked up to see Rarity on the path above running after him, "Spikey" She called out, "I'm OK Rarity!" Spike spat out. Gasping for breath And splashing his claws he continued down stream. "Spikey" She screamed as the mare continued to run above the river following the path after him. Spike crawled to shore ,wet, cold. Covered in mud bugs. Moving on all fours he made it up the river bank. Then 'whomp' Everything faded to black. The last word he heard was "Spikey" ... Rarity looked down at the river where she last saw Spike, Down stream was open water. The river banks sparsely covered in scrub brush left few places to hide, Her eyes searched the muddy edges for a speck of purple and green. The dragon was nowhere to be seen. Her fire quenched. But the storm in her grew. She called her drakes name, With no answer she felt a frozen hole where her heart was. " Spikey where did you go?" Rarity whimpered , anxiously prancing in place. The mare paused pondering on her next course of action when a brown form grabbed her from the flank. The pressure on her neck caused everything to go gray, Unable to breath, unable to think. She stumbled to her knees and as the gray turned to black she heard voices. "I smell her fear" "She's been marked" Another said "Let's take her..." Author's Note This is a first It smellsSpike was seeing dancing stars. His splitting headache drummed, Right now he could hear snails scream. He had seen better days. Mumbling has to be a good thing ,For now it was the only thing he could do. "Can you get the number of that carriage that hit me?" He grunted. Spike rolled over onto his back looking up. He saw smooth stone walls that circled up further than he could jump. It was dark where he was . Gray stones accented with browns and black. He thought it could use a bit of slate to break up the mood what a fashionable nightmare. He face clawed for the moment of dumb, I must be hanging out with rarity too much. He was in the bottom of a pit with no light below only from the hole above did torch light reflecting from the cave roof high above show the vague shadows his environment. Looking in the dark Spike rubbed the bruise on his head and squeaked "Rarity?" ... Rarity awoke in a noisy arena . The torches were shielded so only the center area was illuminated. The chaotic din flowed. Her head spinning as the assault of her senses grew. Noise, dirt ,smoke and B.O. She could see glowing eyes watching her from the shadows of the cavern . Eyes of anger, Eyes of hate. Eyes of greed. Eyes of lust. The noise settled a little when a set of red eyes to her left hushed the crowd . "Who are you , What are you doing here?" The red eyes questioned with a profane tone. Rarity gathered her wits and took a breath, "Please, I need help finding my friend" The red eyes rolled with no reply. Her eyes pleaded "I'm Miss Rarity, Please help me find Spike" , "YOU LIE" a set of yellow eyes jabbed sniffing the air loudly. She turned her head to see the yellow eyes repeat "You LIE" Rarity stood upright saying "Why should you doubt me?" Yellow eyes quizzed her "Where's your mate?" Miss Blue eyes answered "I have no mate" Yellow sniffs again "Is that so?" ... Rarirys eyes looked around at the multicolored eyes in the shadows of the cavern ,Little eyes , Big eyes, Blood shot eyes All uncaring. Yellow eyes broke the silence "Who do you think you are to ask of anything!" Rarity then pleads to the wall of eyes. "I need help finding my friend, Please" Red eyes answer "Your friends are of no concern to us, Why are you in our territory?". She asked again "Please can..." "Help your self !" Red said "We do not approve of your transgression" Rarity looked at her hooves" We didn't intend on disturbing anyone" Yellow piped up " You are disturbing us, Where's your consort?" Rarity raised her head batting her eye lashes "I told you before ,I have no pony" The yellow eyes glared at her. "I CAN SMELL HIM!" Rarity cocked her head in confusion "I don't understand" ... Rarity trembled and wanted if she could to shrink into her own shadow "What is it you want from me?" The voices in the arena increased from all over, A cascade of harsh hungry noises. "I need a slave" "She would make a fine meal" "It would make a nice pet" "I'm all for a snack" "A slave first, Then eat it" "I've got other ideas" "A slave" "A snack" "A toy for my child" "ENOUGH" A feminine voice rang out. "Can't you see that you're scaring her" The riot of noise faded to a low virulent grumbling in the shadows of the gallery. The feminine voice spoke through the thorns "Father, Is she what my mother looked like?" A faint whispering flowed through the crowd like blood dripping from a sponge. "freak" "That one" Voices in the dark. " It's her" "Such a monster" " A mockery of our race" "Hideous half breed" "gross" ... A commanding voice rang out through the dark "ENOUGH, I will have none of that! Order, I tell you ORDER!" The new voice eyed the White unicorn in the lit center of the chaos." Will the gallery please vacate... NOW!" Quiet returned to the cavern as the assortment of colored eyes left leaving the little echo. "Father? Is she what my mother looked like?" His voice now had a gentle royal tone "No, Not exactly dear, Your mothers fur was as dark as Lunas night. And she was Not a unicorn" Rarity sat in the circle of light she was still in the dark Would it be prudent to interrupt the voices?. Rarity took a slight nervous breath and asked her question "Who are you may I ask?" "I am ambassador Kull" He said from the safety of the dark with the glint of spears at his side. Raritys mouth and heart opened up. 'At last resemblance of a civil society !' She took a deep breath "If I may introduce myself I am Miss Rarity from Ponyvi..." Kull continued "Yes. you are one of the powerful ones, Who have the resources to take over my world" ... Rarity gasped and got off her plot to face her accuser in the dark "I assure you we have no such plans ." Kull interrupted her to continue "Miss Rarity ,Here in the bad lands survival is not measured in bits. I've been witness to it's harsh requirements, Raw power is respected and often abus..." Kull was now interrupted . "Father?" she asked "May I take a closer look, Please?" "Rarity , Please excuse my daughter if you may , She's a bit forward as you can hear" Kull sniffs the air and his green eyes nod the spears in the dark retreat. Rarity in return curtsied exclaiming " I have no objection if it pleases you" Two flame orange eyes fixed on Rarity and the form came into the light. It shimmered and flowed, Scales of emerald green framed in jet black fur. Fur so black it shined blue in the torch lights glow. It's hooves ended in small black claws, Her tail was that of reptiles , She was topped with a flowing black mane from the top of her head to the tip of her tail. She walked with a fluid grace unknown to the likes of the fashionesta but for her friend FlutterShy . Rarity awed in her wake and said "I've never seen such a fashionable creature, Oh Celestia! By what name do they have for such a breath taking being such as yourself?" ... The creature smiled a toothy fanged smile. "I am what I am, Those in the peanut gallery call me, Fuzz ball. Freak, Dork, Kulls half breed, Black sludge..." "Coaline !" Kull voiced his disapproval . Rarity looked into the dark asking "Sir? If I may ask, She said I looked like her mother" Kull took a breath and spoke softly "She, Her mother was a Canterlot mare" I met her at a royal function years back, We were so different yet it was a happy time" His voice cracked but he continued. "I was young and just starting my position as ambassadors assistant, My precious Coaline arrived shortly there after a surprise for everyone involved". ... Rarity studied Coaline and wondered out loud "So she's the love child of a pony and..." As if she didn't know the answer already . , Kull spoke kindly, Softly " Dragons my dear Rarity" He Paused "A pony and a dragon" The green eyed form stepped from the dark to the light and Raritys eyes were slammed with an overload of information. Coalines father stood proud. .... "SPIKE?" Gasped Rarity his name popped out in an automatic reaction to what she saw. A small purple dragon, 'Spikes' twin. Other than the scares and deeper voice. He was the splitting image of her Spikey Wikey in every way. Kull looked over at Raritys scrunched muzzle . "Spike?" He came closer to the stunned mare and sniffed "Spike?" Kull snickered "So that's who marked you, Isn't it?" Raritys eyes met his and she turned to Coaline "Marked?" Rarity was clueless "By what ever do you mean?" Coaline giggled with a toothy grin "No? Father she doesn't know, How Sweet" Rarity in the torch light was still truly in the dark. ... Spike stared up to the light above his hole. "Hello, Anypony up there?" Spike almost spoke his thoughts 'How the heck did I get down here? 'The last thing I can remember is that cold water' "HELLO?" A voice above calls out "Hay the whelps awake" A gravely voice answers "What do you want?" "Out of this hole for starters" Yells Spike. Voices full of laughter reply "What do you think we are ,Stupid?" Spike rolled his eyes and crossed his arms "Well Duh.." The voices collectively answer "Were not the one stuck down a hole, Ha Ha Ha Ha " Spike sighed " Well if you don't mind , I could use a few gems or an oat burger" A roar of laughter filled the holes top "Oat burgers? What do you think you are ? A pony?" Gravely spoke "Hay, Guys we've got a ponyphile in our pit!" The voices vacillated about "So that's the stink in our pit" "Where's your mane and cutie mark?" "We got a filly fluffer Boys," " Don't you know it's rude to play with your food?" Gravely yelled down the hole "Don't you know dragons EAT ponies !" ... Spikes claws clenched into little balls of rage "Not all dragons eat ponies" Mr. Gravely taunted "So, So , Next , Next you'll ask us for some ice cream, Ha Ha Ha , Here's some left overs Pony boy" Something lands at Spikes feet. Some bone, meat bloodied with fur, Spike looks at the mess, It's a hoof. His body goes into dry heaves, His world spins "Nooooo" He holds back a scream, He kicks the bloody hoof off into a dark corner and he goes to his knees. His mind and stomach rolling at the thought. "Not all dragons eat ponies" Spikey laid on the cold stone floor and cried to himself " I could never do that" His thoughts race and his panic flared "Gosh ,I hope Rarity's safe." Spike looked up at the light "I hope they didn't find her" Rarity looked at Kull and Coaline "What's so funny?" Coaline giggled "Father ,She really doesn't know" Kull smiled "We dragons mark our family" Kull held up a claw " It's probably why you didn't end up as you would say 'Drake chow". Rarity still oblivious to the words. Marked? Drake chow? Family? Kulls smile flattened out. "Miss Rarity, Do you remember the remarks you heard as you were held here? The unkind remarks and taunts?" Kull lectured on "Dragons thou a noble race harbor a darker side. Slaves are made of other species and rouge clans still eat ponies" Rarity gasped "EAT?" Kull sighed "yes, Eat! Some dragons respect the mark, Rouge dragons respect none. That's how I lost Coalines mother, How I lost my mate." Kulls eyes welled up. ... "That's what some dragons are, Remember not all dragons are.." ."Savage brutes!" Rarity injected. Kull smiled weakly "Miss Rarity , you have the same spirit much like she had" Kull rambled on "It's a hard life here in the lands of the dragon. You breed early or your blood line faces oblivion. Only the few strong or lucky beasts will ever live long lives. Even fewer learn to love outside the family clan" Kull waddled to the center of the arena and sat down. "Some dragons have harems , Others have hoards of treasure." He looked up to the ceiling and sighed "I have my precious Coaline and the memories of her mother" The last words made Rarity blush. Coaline laughed "Rarity? Did your Spike mark you?" Rarity gasped "Spikey! Oh dearest Spike, I need a little help" She took a pause. "I've lost Spikey. Please, The last moment I saw him was in the river by the gem fields" Kull listened and summoned another drake in armor, He spoke to it and quickly the armored sentry slithered into the dark. ... Kull raised a brow "You called me 'Spike' when you first saw me, Is your companion a drake?" Rarity looked down at her hooves and a faint "yes" passed her lips. She thought to herself. ' Why am I answering like Fluttershy?' Coaline teased her "Do you like your Spikey Poo?" Rarity in a flustered answer stumbled with her words "He's a wonderful friend and a gentle colt,ah dragon" Coaline nudged her "Come on now. Just a friend?" Rarity fully blushed as Coline continued with a whisper " He-Marked-You!" A pause after each word. ... Raritys eyes popped open her pupils just pricks of blue "My Spikey Wikey marked Oui? How? When? He's not that type of pony er dragon , ah drake, My Spikey?" Coaline looked in amazement at Raritys drama , She placed a claw on the white mares withers. "Even I smell your Spike" Rarity calmed down. Her head cocked to the side her eyes looking for an answer. " Coaline ,How do you mark your family?" The half breed, Pongon , Dracony, what ever answered with a turn "Here's how" She approached her father ,They came together and rubbed cheek to cheek. They looked over at a very confused marsh mellow studying the moment . "Is that it?" Rarity whimpered. What ? Nothing more? ... Coaline rolled her eyes at the mare and said "No? This is what it is!" She strutted up to Rarity and spoke softly "Your Spikey is the lucky one" Coaline nuzzled Raritys cheek and gave it a hard rub. The unicorn blushed at her words. Was this a mark? What scent is that? No. . . What do I smell? She took her hoof across her cheek and took a whiff. "Coaline was that a mark?" Coaline nodded with amusement and looked at the purple drake sitting in the torch light. Raritys brain popped into overdrive stripping a few gears 'My Spikey? That scent! I know it !'Nooooo ... Strawberries ! Spikey? Raritys mind raced back through time... Oh no! The MARECYS Department store! "I'm returning my Palmare number five for a full refund! This perfume is obviously defective ! My purchase was for vanilla number five and NOT Strawberries number TWO ! The clerk at the counter shook his head and told the irate mare "All of our products go through the highest standards in quality control". "But SMELL this!" She huffed. Rarity popped the top and sprayed her defective spritzer . The clerk was a true agent of the corporation. Gagging on the stink of strawberries and vanilla he said "Madam , If you PLEASE, All products are to be returned to the main office in Mare-Belle Rue Prance. We only sell the stuff, I can't help you, It's MARECYS policy with special order foreign products" Rarity whined on. "This continuing issue you have with defective stock and customer disservice is such a bothersome affair. Where's your manager in CHARGE ! ,, I insist on...." ... Rarity snaps back to the scent just seconds ago . "My Spikey? Strawberries!" Back in the light Coaline looked at Rarity snapping a clawed hoof in front of Raritys eyes"Are you OK?". Rarity stared back with a blank look of a thousand hooves, All the hugs, All the snuggles. All the times she was close to him, Her Spikey Wikey of all ponies er ah drakes. Kulls voice tapped into the silence "Ahem" Rarity snapped out of her trance and breathed once more. "You are free to go Miss Rarity" Kull continued "I have other business to attend to, A guard and Coaline will see you out" Rarity nodded numbly and asked " Have they found Spike?" Kull laughed "Your Spike IS my other business" Ambassador Kull bowed his head. "A pleasure to be at your service Miss Rarity , I bid you fare thee well and Coaline dinner is in the evening please don't come late" "Yes , Father" Coaline pointed her clawed hoof to the way out. Author's Note [ YOUR TAX DOLLARS AT WORK ] ////////// DANGER FALLING ROCKS \\\\\ Spiked timeThey strolled along exiting the caverns. Coaline, Rarity and the usual no named guard in shining armor took a slow pace. Raritys mind raced as her visit was too short and she wished Twilight was with her . Of all the mares that she knew of she too needed to learn of Spike and his kind. Rarity wanted more. Rarity asked "Coaline? If I might ask, How old was your father when you were born?". Rarity took a small breath." I don't mean to be so bold" She held on to the air in her lungs. ... "I was a yearling when my mom died" Coaline paused in thinking. "Sixteen years solar" She replied. Rarity stopped and shook her head thinking. 'Losing her mother at such a young age, How tragic' Coaline mused "Not all dragons are bad and we have no choice to what clan we're born into, But we can still make a difference in who we are and who are friends are" . Rarity glanced up to see Coalines fangs and toothy smile shimmering in the sun light. Raritys eyes stung in the mid day sun and then it hit her like Toms exit from the Golden Oaks Library. She vapor locked and gasped "SIXTEEN SOLAR YEARS!" Her jaw hit the ground . As her eyes popped out and back into her sockets and a voice that resembled a screaming butterfly. "Sixteen solar years!" She thought a bit Spike's much older than Coaline Almost as old as Twilight, Oh my... " Oh Spikey, Here's some more divine pleasure for my brave noble dragon" He could only answer "Hummmm" Raritys horns glowing increased and Spikes rapture brought shivers up his spine , Rarity spoke in his ear "I don't want to go any faster my Spikey wikey , It could get painful " Spike said "Bring it on" Her horn glowed even brighter as another scoop of vanilla oat swirl ice cream filled his mouth . "Hay Dork, wake up" Gravely called. Spike was asleep in the pit. Heck, Why not? He had nothing else to do. A small rock bounced off Spikes noodle. 'DOINK' "Ouch!" Spike awoke and rubbed his head. "What was that for?" He sputtered. He fumbled around and grabbed the rock and in a fit threw it up aiming at his captors. It sailed up , Bounced on the walls and ricochet from its intended mark. Gravity sucks. The drake covered his green spines and scampered around avoiding the falling stone. "Should of paid attention to Twilights physics classes " 'THUD' Spike squinted at the light above. A voice called down "You awake there stinky?" Spike grumbled "Yeah and I'm still hungry" A black sack landed at his feet. A rope uncoiled next to him from above. "Put the bag on your head and grab the rope Pony boy ,vacations over" . A gravely voice huffed "I don't like your kind and don't come back". ... Spike did as he was told and under breath said "Glad to see you jerks never". The guards grabbed him and as he was lead away the purple drake had one last thing to say "I'm so outa here". Raritys shock wore off as she walked along the path , Coalines scales shimmered . Her coat held the fire of the sun. Her orange eyes shined like flaming embers. She looked at the clawed hooves and the graceful sway of her tail, Swishing , Half dragon half pony. The mare continued to quizz her toothy friend " What is it you normally eat?" Coaline beamed "Anything ! But I love Oat burgers, Hay Fries, Maretalian food and Ice cream, Gems are fine But I find them a little hard to pass". ... Rarity and Coaline continued to chat and walk till the nothing special no named guard in shining armor interrupted them. " This is far as we go" He informed them. The no named as usual guard in shining armor pointed down the path. "Your friend is that away" . Coaline and Rarity said their good byes . "I'll have father contact your Embassy ponies in Canterlot". She nuzzled Raritys cheek and returned from where she came. A Strawberry scent following the winds. ... Raritys walk continued and she saw an odd but familiar sight, Up ahead on the path sat Spike on a flat rock with a black sack covering his head. "Hero of the Crystal Empire, Messenger to Princess sun butt and Princess Twilight friggin Sparkle, Savior of the Equestria games" Spike grumbled " Don't take it off or else" . "What a bunch of jerks, I must be related to the Flutters family" Spike continued to rant. " Now I sit here for what ever with a stupid bag over my head. Gosh I'm such a dor..". His ear flukes perked up as he heard a muffled snicker. " Oh ..No ,Lets make fun of the idiot with a bag over his head". "Oh My, Spikey Wikey" She pouted. Placing a hoof over her mouth to stop a laugh or two. Spike whipped the bag off his head and saw her eyes locked with his. He hopped off the rock running and reaching out to hug his marsh mellow mare. Tripping together they collide with a muffled thump Rarity could smell the strawberries as she rubbed her cheek with his. At the same instant they sighed "Glad your OK" They locked hooves and claws in a binding embrace. ... Rarity looked across at Spike with his big dopy smile. "Spikey?" She quizzed. She was looking for that unanswered question of the scent of strawberries. His eyes looked at her unchanged . "What?" He answered . Tilting his head and raising a single brow. She just gave him a little kiss and said lightly "I'm so glad my Spikey Wikey is back" She could smell his mark. "I'm happy to see you too Rars" He swooned and fell limp in her hooves. She sniffed and thought with a little giggle. 'He doesn't know, How sweet it is ! ' "We have got to get back and tell Twilight about the dragons " She sure had a tale to tell. They started back to the fields and she watched their shadows wrap around and glide beside them. Two forms moved as one. Swaying and prancing with a waddle put in for good measure. Spike thinking of her last words about the dragons asked " Do we have to tell her about the sack?" Rarity lightly put a hoof to his head spines and gave them a rub. "That will be our little secret Spikey Poo, Twilight doesn't need to hear everything" ... They stopped at the spot where their little dragon trek started. They took in the view of the river, The warm sun gave warmth from above and their hearts warmed them from within . Spike and Rarity looked at each other, In general at first. Scales of purple fur of white. Then up to each others muzzles and now the eyes of Deep blue, Emerald Green. He stuttered as she cleared her throat. Rarity looked in his eyes and she knew what was to come. "Rarity, " Spike paused as usual " I , I- you know I've had a crus..." "Wow! look at Those gems you two found !" Pinkie bounded into and around the hole "Hey , Lookie what I found , It's handy dandy like cotton candy!" The pink whirl wind produced a black sack and she loaded it to the hilt with the dug up booty. Spike could only think ' Wham ! To the moon Pinkie, To the moon ! What wasn't in the bag was quickly tossed into her mane. Spike could only look and face claw . Pinkie was after all , Pinkie. ... The three bounced, trotted and waddled back to the camp. Pinkie was all abuzz like a nightmare night filly on a major sugar high with ten cups of AJs mud black coffee. 'Bouncie bouncie Wheeeee Weeeeee' " So Pinkie , how was your day, My dear?" Rarity asked in a bit of small talk. Pinkie rolled her eyes and replied in a nonstop monolog - " Digging is Boring ,boaring ,Sleepy snoring ,boring !, Not like you two getting trapped by a secret clan of dragons and Spikey getting teased and called a stinky pony boy by a bunch of meanie no pants poopies, And how Rarity saw a cool , nicey nice little purple dragon who was telling you about how dragons are just bad nasty. But a few are sweet like your Spikey Wikey. And his love child was a super pretty Pongon ,Dracony, Aww whatever , And the guards name was Curly. You and Spikey make the cutest little couple . Your secrets safe with me and I won't never ever say anything about that nasty black bag you had on your head . But it sure was handy dandy. You two will have sweet dreams tonight and see Luna too ! And I saw a butterfly that looked like a giant chocolate cookie . Just like a giant flying moon pie ! Yep Just another boring day in Ponyville, Strawberries? yummy!" - End of monolog or is it? ... Spike looked at the Pink cyclone. Put his claws on his hips and rolled his eyes "Did you forget anything?" Pinkie with out losing a bounce "Well Duh, You don't want me to be a spoiler, Do you?" .' With a Boing and a zip , She was off in a streak of pink. AJ was prepping the cook fire and saw the two stragglers out in the field. " Come on ya two love birds" The Orange mare teased " Gota quit takin them long walks. Ya done burned through the day!" Twilight called out to the pair "We've got more spots to dig for tomorrow". Rarity happily called back "X marks the spot darling". Her heart swelled with the treasure she had. She thought to herself ' X marks the spot Spikey' "Wait till I have a chat with Twilight" ... Rainbow rolled to a dive and flared to a stop. Hovering she looked at the setting sun in a cloudless sky. Yellow faded to orange melted to violet and ended in a twinkling of stars in the velvet of Lunas mane. Everypony and dragon were around the camp fire winding down from the days events. Rarity and Twilight were talking about the discovery of Ambassador Kull and Coaline. The days load of sparkling gems were piled high ready for the morning wagons arrival. Dashie landed with the touch of a feather unloaded her saddle bags and strutted up to Twilight. "I dropped off the supplies and we have extra hooves coming in at first daylight, Looks like I'll be sleeping here tonight" Twilight looked up at Rainbow and glanced at Rarity "Would you mind if Dash shared a space with you?" The fashionesta looked up from the hoofacure she was receiving from Spike. "Of course she's welcome darling Twilight, I'll have Spike unpack the extra cushions and comforters " ... AJ dished out the left over grub "Here Rainy this will put some meat on yer bones" Rainbow dug in , She eyed the crowd around the fire, Pinkie was playing chess with gummy. AJ was field stripping the cook ware. Rarity and Twilight were gabbing and taking notes. Dashie was wondering how Spike had become such an expert at hoofacures. Not that she wanted one herself. But with his skills and soft touch the drake could give Aloe and Lotus a run for there money. "Yo Spike? plan on opening your own hoofacure shop? You sure could rake in the bits". Spike continued to work on the white mares hoof not even a glance up "You want one too?" Dashie recoiled "You know I don't go for all that fru fru stuff". AJ popped a shot at the Blue one " You should try one of his famous back rubs fly gal !" Rarity looked up with a glow and batted her lashes "He's such a handy gentle drake, You have my word" Pinkie gasped "Gummy's done it again! I don't believe it, Check mate in ten moves!" All eyes turned to the pink one. ... The bed rolls were rolled out by fire ring the flames slowly dying . Twilight, AJ and Spike started to snooze. Pinkie squiggled up in her wagon singing Gummy to sleep with an old Pie family lullaby. Dashie was snoring up a storm driving Rarity to the far side of her palace of outdoor fabulous De La Rue. The night was deadly clear and cold. A chilled wind snapped across the field. Putting a shimmering layer of frost on everything under the stars. 'Spiff ' the fire was now dead and snuffed out cold. Ice and cold covered everything. Grass, Dirt ,Bushes, Bed rolls, Wagons, Fur, Scales, Eye balls and Ears. .,. AJ awoke with her teeth chattering "Guys and Gals ,I think it's getting a little nippy out here" They had to get out of the deep freeze and into proper of not a more fashionable shelter. A call was heard above the wind. "Hay Rarity, The wind and cold are getting a might testy out here mind if we come in?" Rarity popped open the door, And she ushered the ponycicles in out of the weather. They all huddled together as hot tea was passed around. Rarity saw Spikes lethargic form in Twilights now sputtering magic. "Oh dear" The white mare said seeing the frozen bunch come in. A shivering Twilight laid Spike on Raritys cushion in a bid to keep him warm. She saw her friends a purple alicorn and dragon in shivering fits. Rarity cuddled them both. Their eyes frosted over. .,. Pinkie shook as she sat on the floor. AJ and Dashie helped her lay down "SNAP !" a piece of Pinkies mane snapped off , Streamers and confetti bursting out of the wound in her cotton candy mane. AJs eyes just glossed over "How is this possible?" Pinkie smiled and said "Easy just do this" Miss Bubble gum mare reached up and "SNAP" Pinkie snapped off a piece of the brim of AJs frozen solid as a rock hat. "Hay ! What in tarnation ! Pinkie what do you think you're doing? That was ma favorite hat!" The farmer rolled over in a fit. Her eyes going twicha twich as her nose scrunched up. The pink one bounded on the orange ice cube on the floor and held her in a warm embrace . The Fashionesta hotel was at full capacity . A Purple book worm and a marsh mellow drake sandwich. An orange rancher and a frozen pie on the far side topped with a snoring rainbow noisemaker. The sun broke the horizon over the cratered and frosted landscape it's lone palace soaking in the rays. The morning's warmth thawing out the previous night of reefer madness. .i. AJ was the first to stir that morning . She crawled over to Twilight and wondered at the sight below. Spike was cuddled tightly with Rarity her hooves and his claws intertwined like wild ivy, Her tail and his wrapped up like a maypole on hearths warming day. His head was tucked under her chin ."purrrr purrrr." With each breath he was purring softly like a giant cat. With a hushed voice AJ woke Twilight and the others. Spike and Rarity fidgeted and spoke in their sleep as one. Pinkie crossed her hooves "That's just creepy pasta cute without the spaghetti sauce." Spike watched the dream play out. He witnessed Raritys life as he knew it flashed before him. Date after date fumble and failed, Her dreams of Royal life dashed to pieces like a smashed slipper. Spike in anguish yelled at the ghosts of her past "How could you hurt her like that!" He hated the stallions who wanted only to bed her or use her like a stepping stone for their own fallacious desires. Spike watched the white mare crying in her pillows and concealing the pain in her fabulous creations. He saw countless nights when he and Rarity worked through the wee hours of the morning. And then another dream passed, The one he feared most of all. Rarity was dressed in her wedding gown and bouquets of flowers filled his eyes. Spike turned away and saw Luna watching with him. "Spike ,Why do you turn away on her wedding day?" Spike looked at her majestic form and pouted. "It's the greedy dragon in me, I want her to be happy, But I want her to be happy with me!" Luna watched the scene unfold and covered Spikes eyes. He balled his claws into fists and sighed "Tell me when it's over, I can't watch it." .*. Luna motioned to Spike as the dreams flowed to better times. Rarity was a little older her hair up in a tasteful bun. She was calling her children to breakfast " Ruby, Jade ,Garnett get your pancakes" Spike saw the happy vision of what could be a so called normal meal take a nasty twist. Rarity turned around as the little monsters destroyed the kitchen ,Hay browns ,Eggs , juice and pancakes sailed to the four winds sticking to any surface that was horizontal , vertical and inverted. The future Rariry yelled "Stop it right now! Don't let me get father after you!" Spike watched the comic horror continue till the future Rarity screamed. "SPIKE ! Come in here and stop your childrens insurrection, NOW !" A stunned Spike looked at Luna "Whoa, How is that future Spikes problem?" He shook his head." How did I dream that up?" Luna looked at him and asked "Your dream?" Rarity awoke with an uncouth "SNORKLE" and after a drowsy launch into the day she looked up to see all her friends smiling at her like she was the main attraction in a circus. She looked down and saw her purple precious scales asleep. Embarrassment flooded her thoughts. "Excuse me , I must be a dreadful sight, How did Spikey sleep? Is he all right?" She fumbled and paused. AJ and Twilight helped her untangle from Spikes embrace and Rarity gently stood up on her own power, AJ whispered " Real good from what we saw, The strangest thing, It's like you two had the same dream" Spike continued to slumber and mumble. AJ turned away winking at Rarity and nodding at the sleeping drake. "You and lover boy were talking like you was in one of your fancy romancing novels and everything" Twilight rebuffed the farmer mare "Apple Jack !" .?. Author's Note //////// WATCH OUT FOR HEAVY EQUIPMENT-----UNDER CONSTRUCTION \\\\ PinkdozerSpike walked with luna through an empty Ponyville. She put away her royal we for a more familiar tone. "When Equsetria was young wars between species were the norm. dragons, unicorns, ponies all fought . Even I went to battle against my own sister. Beasts of all kinds struggling for power just for the sake of power. When I returned from banishment my battle continued on." Spike sighed "We all saw how that went" "Indeed Spike, My eyes that were shielded by my vanity were opened. My sister still loved me. and the world I left had changed, Not for the better and not for the worse. Just different. Like I and you." Spike looked down fumbling with his claws "You saw the dreams, You think I've got a chance?" Luna yawned and gave a quick answer "We all have a chance, Will you be strong enough to chose?" ... Spikes dream decomposed to sounds, Sounds of wagons being loaded ,sounds of cookware shuffling around, fillies laughing , ponies talking ,even a "Eeyep" punctuated the air. Spike felt a soft warm blanket above and a soft warm cushion below. Another day had blossomed and he was still half asleep. Spike laid on his back stretched out his limbs and tail. First up to the air then out to his sides. As the blanket flung off in a heap to his left, Spike rolled right and stood up on all fours before he opening his eyes. He let out a final yawn and saw black ! Black as coal as in no light ! The drake panted and let out a scream. ... "I'm BLIND ! Twilight ! Rarity I can't see ! ,I can't see nothing Help ! Help ME!" Spike scampered to the voices beyond the confines of the mobile palace . His advances suddenly stopped as Twilights aura of magic cradled the fleeing drake. "Spike what's wrong !" Twilight cried out. Spikes answer was brief "COLD ! LUNA !DREAM ! RARITY ! BLIND !" Floating in her grasp had his claws, nose and tail pointing to all sections of the compass. His spade tail pointing due Twilight. " I can't see anything!" Spike said coldly . Twilight slowly turned Spike around and spoke to him slowly in a calming voice "Yes Spike, It was freezing last night, Rarity and I kept you warm, And You did have a strange dream with Luna, And What's this about Rarity making you blind?" _._ Spike heard a little giggle slip from Twilight with the last words. Flustered He asked "Now how would Rarity make Me go blind?" Twilight teased the sightless drake "Lots of ways Spike, Like..." Spike spat out "No ! Twilight! Don't even go... " She continued "Like taking Raritys sleep mask off!" Spike went limp with relief and removed the pink mask with red hearts and white fringes. "Whoa, Don't I look silly." He said a little sheepishly as he was deposited back to solid ground. Her magic placed the sleep mask to its spot and Twilight said with a soft laugh "You might be Raritys Spikey Wikey but you'll always be my baby dragon and a national treasure" Spike hugged the boss-sister-mom BBBFFs little sister and room mate. "Come on Spike AJs got lunch going" Twilight said with a grumble in her belly. _,_ They exited the portable palace looking forward to lunch. Out past the fire ring was a bench full of mouth watering munchies, pies, cakes, burgers ,beans. Main courses and side dishes , salads ,ciders and more. Along with the added hooves came the added stomachs. " Twilight ,Twilight Sparkle ! " Wailed Mayor Mare. Her thoughts of a quick Hay burger vanished as the Mayor informed the princess of the violations that were piling up with the excavation and unpermitted modification of the land scape. She studied the area. Raritys portable palace, bed rolls, wagons being loaded by Big Mac ,Pinkie , The Cutie mark crusaders and assorted back ground ponies. A big piece of real estate was pock marked and scared like a no ponies land from the First Equestrian War. The war to end all wars. Twilight looked at her number one assistant and said "Spike take a note" _j_ ___________________________________________________________________________________ "Dear Princeaa Celestia, Bla bla bla bla bla La Spike Bla bla bla bla Bits Bla bla bla Dragons Bla bla bla Dig dig Bla bla Me Bla la la la la Pinkie Bla bla Rarity Bla bla bla Everypony Bla bla trouble Bla bla AJ ,Pinkie Bla bla Bla Cold, Luna, Dream, Rarity BLIND Ha Ha Ha Bla bla bla Mayor Mare Bla Big Trouble Bla Real Hungry. The Princess of Friendship Always your Student Princess Twilight Sparkle _______________________________________________________________________________ _j_ Spike rolled the scroll and with the usual blast of green flame sent the note. Derpy just watched in awe as the letter was sent with postage due. The Mayor and Twilight debated the finer points of government, Spike sat himself down to a Hay burger and fries. The crusaders grouped around the bench chowing down after a hard morning of "CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS EXCAVATOR CONSTRUCTION SPECIALISTS" All mouths were full as Sweetie Belle asked a loaded question "Spike I see you always helping around the boutique and stuff why don't you ask my Sis out on a real date?" Spike and Scootaloo both gaged except Spikes was a real deep choking gag . Applebloom charged and gave the drake a good back thump sending the plug of half chewed hay burger into the air with a pop of green flame. It vanished in the cloud of smoke. He coughed and looked at Sweetie "What? - hack-What did you say Sweetie?" His eyes bugging out. Applebloom looked at the startled drake "Everypony in town knows you're like a love sick puppy following Rarity like she has a pork chop strung around her neck" Everypony at the bench nodded. Spike sighed and buried his snout in his claws , He thought 'Is it that noticeable?' _l_ The crusaders watched Spike for the answer to Sweeties question. Spike took a breath and looked at the prying eyes of the fillies, How can't you answer after seeing the little urchin faces. He again took a deep deep deeper breath . He slowly let it out bit by bit. "Sweetie? Have you ever seen Rarity come back after one of her so called dates?" Sweetie looked at her hooves and nodded silently. Spike saw and continued "It's not a pretty sight" Spike sniffed a little "One disaster after another, I can't see how she doesn't see through the jerks and douche-bagels" Two fillies giggled at the last words. Sweetie could see the hurt in Spikes eyes and she reached out and gave him a hug. "Try and ask her Spike" she whispered in his ear fluke, Spike sighed and whispered back to her"I don't want to be another of her has been failures" Spike excused himself and waddled away into the crowd feeling a bit alone and asking "Why me?" _I_ The mob had shifted from lunch right into high gear toting bags of gems and lifting bales of whatever. Flutters was huffing and puffing trying to fly a bale if trash from the work site. Dashie was coaching her on as she too was hauling a load, Other Pegasus joined in the work with a few mouthy pudd knockers. "Hay ,Rainbow trash Time to trade in your Rainboom for a Rain broom." Before the offending Pegasus had finished his untimely rant Dashie saddled him with a big load of his own. "Here ya go sport you're now twenty percent heaver" Dashie shagged him. The Brown Pegasus grunted "Thanks" Rainbow returned with her trade marked "Don't mention it" It looked as the fields were picked clean, Only empty craters dotted the landscape like Lunas old prison. Twilight, AJ and Rarity were now arguing with the Mayor as to where Ponyville stopped and Equestria unincorporated territory began. _qp_ As the work wrapped up for the day Spike noticed that the calculations Twilight had, did not take into account the added hooves of the good citizens of Ponyville taking an unscheduled job fest in Spikes honor. He waddled on and saw all the happy folks helping. Helping not because he was a hero of the crystal Empire, Or the number one assistant of a Princess. But helping a nice drake because he had been nice and helpful himself. They were giving not to be rewarded but helping as he did. Without expecting payment, no reservations. He continued along avoiding the multitude of holes seeing the whole affair wind down. Waddle walk waddle. He felt a swelling in the pit of his belly, Was it pride? Was it the Lunch he had? It continued to grow till... "BELCH" A letter from Princess Celestia ! He was feeling better even with what little lunch he had. _**_ "Twilight ! Twilight !" Spike yelled as he delivered the scroll from a higher authority. The Mayor ,Princess, and the rest waited for the reading. Spike cleared his throat "A hem A hem", He took a small breath. ________________________________________________________________________________ From the office of Princess Celestia Office of Accounting #1121 Canterlot Castle Route 1 A OBM # C1-001 EQUESTRIA GOVERNMENT BUSINESS CENTER Sun Drive Dear Princess Twilight Sparkle As you know Ponyville laws and Ordinances need to be followed and even a princess must set an example to her subjects, We in Government have to work hard to win the public trust. Please follow any requests the Mayor or any other public official might have so we can service everypony with equality and dignity. Please vote in the next election and buy municipal bonds. All Equestria correspondence is written on recycled paper. Please write wisely Sincerely your Princess Celestia cc: CB Hamster cc: RT Fink form 8130 rev a-1 _________________________________________________________________________________ ** Spike just looked at the scroll and muttered "That's totally messed up" Twilight just stood with a ' WHAT the HAY ' look frozen with disbelief. Everypony other than the Mayor mare thought Celestria had gone over the brink and entered Equestria Weight Watchers and Cakes Anonymous . The clean up continued, Raritys portable palace the bed rolls and gear was loaded on the wagon with care. Twilight still was talking to the Mayor in hopes of negotiating a settlement in the so called violations. The cutie mark crusaders ganged up on Spike and were pushing him along past Big Mac, past AJ, past Twilight and the rest. Rainbow and Fluttershy flew in for another garbage run, when they saw the drake being pushed along hoof by hoof, Step by step :The two hovered. Dashie could see what was going on with Spike Rarity and the CMC, She hoofed out and pulled Fluttershy close and spoke softly "Watch,This is going to be fun !" ** Rarity watched her little sister, Scootaloo and Applebloom push Spike towards her position. She could only laugh at the sight of the fillies over powering the Hero of the Crystal Empire. The defeated knight stood in front of the Lady. The fillies poking and prodding him. The gals said in a unlikely concord "Spike has something to say to you" Rarity looked into his emerald green eyes and spoke "Well what is it you need to say? Sweetie what is this all about young lady?" Sweetie nudged Spike a little more. Spikes vision collapsed and all he saw was her baby blues, He couldn't hear thundering roars beyond his beating heart, This was it. Luna had asked him if he was strong enough for it. For the longest time he had a nice speech planed for just the right time. "Rarity?" he asked like a drunken sailor on a binder. "Rarity?" The white mare asked "Yes Spikey?" "Raritywillyoubemymare?" He had messed it up big time ! He thought 'I'm so hosed ! -Noooooooooo !'. __ Raritys eyes twitched her nose scrunched up and her ears laid back on her mane, That look, That wild look. She was prancing around in circles, Looking like she did in Shining Armors wedding when she pounced on those poor flower foals diving for the tossed bridal bouquet. Sweetie Belle remembered that day with her big sister and yelled "She's going cray cray!" Twilight charged her horn ready to protect her number one assistant. Rainbow roared with laughter, Flutters hid behind a cloud, Pinkie spun around into her tail and vanished in a puff of pink dust. Spike trembled as his enraged marsh mellow approached him . She's taking it rather good so far. She looked into his soul and asked one long question. Here it comes "Can you even find it conceivable that you can furnish this ladys requirement as a consort?" Spike put a claw to his snout and humbly looked up at her, Thinking 'I'm dead already, Oh well. "I can only try my best Lady Rarity" Can it get any worse? The crusaders scrambled for cover as Rarity stomped her hooves and reared up .Spike closed his eyes accepting his doom, Everfree Forest Lawn here I come. Waiting the few microseconds felt like hours, Twilight watched Spike get picked up by his overjoyed white mare in a tight hug. "I thought you would never ask ,You silly Drake!" YES YES YES YES She happily exclaimed as tears fell through her painted eyes . 0.o She smothered the purple drake in kisses kicked up her hooves and pranced around floating him aloft in a blue aura of her horns magic. The sight was a circus of micro proportions AJ ,Big Mac and the crusaders climbed aboard the wagons and set off to town laughing at Spikes plight. Shy giggled and joined Dashies fun flight over the field. Twilight was in tears sitting on her plot holding back snickers. Spike took his claw and fist pumped up to the wild blue. As they passed his purple sister-boss-roommate the butterflies in his belly rumbled, and roared. "belch !" . Out popped a Scroll and it floated into Twilights hooves. ___________________________________________________________________ Dear Princess Twilight Sparkle Please Disregard the previous letter. ( Numbered 1121) I have looked into the mineral rights as out lined in the treaty of the Diamond dogs v Rarity Royal Court case EQ 23146 Dog vs Pony. The land in question has been subcontracted for strip mining by the PFRF corporation. Please inform Mayor mare all regulations will be followed as required by Equestrian laws. I am informed by Princess Luna about Spike and Raritys happy situation and wish them all the best. (Now when are you going to step up to the plate?) PS. Tell Spike to chew his food better before swallowing ,The janitorial staff would appreciate it. Don't be such a stranger and come out for a visit some time, Cakes and tea on the house. Princess Celestia (Tia) ______________________________________________________________________ '''' Twilight looked at Mayor mare and smugly remarked "Looks like it's out of your hooves now Mayor!" The Mayor looked at the scroll and rolled her eyes " R-H.I.P. Princess , Rank Has Its Privileges. See you at the next meeting at city hall" The bi-spectacled mare exited field left. Twilight looked at the scroll and asked herself out loud " I know about the diamond dogs- but what's this PFRF corporation ?" She looked at the late day sun and turned to see Spike and Rarity strolling back to Ponyville. " Wait up you two ! You both have a lot of explaining to do!" Twi galloped off after the couple. She followed the scent of strawberries and the sound of laughter. ... The sun glistened off the chrome and pink behemoth sitting off in the distance, It loomed larger than life made of iron and steel the dirt yielded under it's unloaded weight, It chugged to life belching flame and smoke puff, Chug puff chug PUFF CHUG CHUG. It ROARED to full power. Hideous forces driving pumps and pistons. It's studded treads moving over massive rollers. The links straining as giant drive sprockets turned. The beast clawed over the pock marked earth the shiny blade lowering and cutting fresh gashes into the ground. The operator yelled a mighty "Wooo Hoooo!" As she pushed and pulled the levers . It raged on with it's attack. Rainbow Dash flew down to confront the machine and it's destructive power. The driver saw her coming. "Hay ! Pinkie ,That's an awesome ride you've got ! Can I have a go at it?" Dashie beamed her bud a grin. Pinkie smiled wildly "Sure Dashie! My Pinkdozer's always open for business ! Wooo Hoooo !" Painted on the side was PIE FAMILY ROCK FARM CORPORATION. D - 10 Cat-A-Pie-r . End? Author's Note I just don't know what happened It looks so bold. //////////// DANGER EXPLOSIVES USE CAUTION BLAST AREA \\\\\ bonus camp firesThe Annual Foal Scouts Jamboree A week of outdoor fun and adventure comes to an end . Spike and the usual gang did what they could to keep all the colts and fillies safe and happy. Night had fallen and everypony was gathered around the campfire, The Mane six, The cutie mark crusaders and a whole troop of colt and filly Scouts. The fire flickered in the night sky as the smores and stories came to a close. The next game was truth or dare, Twilight asked the questions from her three by five index cards. The game continued counting down as the players were eliminated, Round after round till the last couple were standing. Spike & Rarity "Truth or Dare, Spike." Twilight called out. Spike asked quietly "Gosh. Twilight, How about a truth?" Twilight loudly asked "Spike, Who's your crus. . ." "FOREVER!" Screamed Pinkie, The whole crowd giggled and hooted as the couple shared a blush. Twilight spoke with authority "All right everypony , Shish! , Moving on." "Rarity?" Twilight asked "Truth or Dare?" Rarity smiled "We all know the truth darling, How about a dare to liven thing up?" The silence was only broken by the crackling fire and the challenge of Twilights dare. "Rarity, Kiss Spike right on the lips" Twilight started with a giggle. It grew from a single giggle to a roar of laughter that rippled through the bunch watching the roasting couple. In the center was a scaley purple ball and a blushing marsh mellow. She started with a little peck, Her face took on a devilish smirk.'Mine' Spikes eyes went wide'I want' Rarity and Spike leaned in, They wrapped their hooves and claws around each other in a serious lip lock. Hearts flooded the air and the two fell over. Twilight laughed out of control at the sight. Scootaloo sighed "Oh no ,mushy stuff." Sweetie beamed "I'm getting my cutie mark as Auntie Belle!" Apple Bloom said "Ah don't think so, Sweetie." Pinkie giggled "Forever." AJ watching the sight said "Now hold on there lover boy." The smooching continued. The flickering of the fire went from red to a green glow. Twilight and the others gasped together "Spike!" The fire grew "Rarity!" Some ponies turned away, Others ran and covered their eyes. AJ stared at them and screamed "LOOK OUT EVERYPONY, HE'S ABOUT TO BLOW" Everypony scattered in a panic, Hooves and plots heading for all points of the compass' Luna and Tia were sipping tea on a balcony over looking the kingdom when a blast rang out with a raising green mushroom cloud . Tia looked at Luna and asked "Dear Sister are we under attack?" Luna calmly took another sip of her tea and grinned "Wild oats, Sister, Wild oats." Rarity sat up in the crater , Wisps of smoke rolling from her muzzle and she simply asked "Oh Spikey? Precious Scales , Where did everypony go?" Author's Note Epilog BonusWing Bonus Spike had finally asked Rarity out after all the months of plotting and planning they sat cozily in the dark at the Ponyville cinema II the only movie theatre with two screening rooms outside of Canterlot. Pop corn? check. drinks? check. Rarity? double check. Spike knew tonight was the night where he was going to turn on the charm and hug and smooch his lady in waiting and Rarity was waiting long enough she wanted romance she wanted snuggles and she wanted her Spikey to be her knight riding his mighty mare. But a lady surely rides sidesaddle and she laid out the rules. But of course the foal play was coming on the third date and she was ready and wanting to start with the first base of the game. Smooching. --------------------------------------------1st Base?------------------------------------------ The starting credits finished minutes ago and the movie started it was a "Shadow Spade Mystery" Rarity no doubt knew the plot from the novel and was now grumbling how any film artist would take liberties of her favorite character, Spike took her hoof in his claws and comforted her "Yea what does a Hoofywood director know anything about Shadow Spade" Rarity took notice and snuggled closer to the dragon who raised his arm over Raritys neck. She smiled at his slow carful reach, "Mmmmmmmmmm" "haaa ha ha haaa ha ha" A fillys laughter cut through the dark causing Spike to look around and retract his advances, His shyness coming back to the surface. The movie continued on...Rarity and Spikey waited as the flicker show had the hero embracing the refined Lady Diamond their moans on screen mirrored the couples musings. Rarity reached around Spikey and drew him into a fine under the chin snuggle and the dragon put his claws lightly on her one free hoof and the other behind her head, Raritys locks were running through his hands. She was in pure delight as Spikey massaged her mane stroking and combing until he found a little puff then another and a few more puffs of pop corn. Spike was confused at first when he felt a soft hit of a hot buttered delight. Rarity looked for the reason of Spikes pause of her pampering when the giggles of some local filly trouble makers filled their ears. "Sweetie Belle what are you doing... Doing? Spike?" He showed her the now pile of pop corn in his claws and the speckles of pop corn decorating Raritys mane. The Cutie Marked Crusaders howled with laughter as the lady excused herself to the mares powder room. Spike watched his date storm off and crossed his arms eyeballing the three little hooligans "Come on you guys a little help here? I know it's funny as all get out but It's our first time here, can you cut us a little slack?" "Mom wants her to have a good time . . . But not "that" good you know what I mean". Sweeties tone was adult serious with a capital "A" even if she was giddy about the possibility of becoming an aunt. Apple Bloom and Scootaloo were murmuring a bit until they spoke up "What's in it for us?" Spike rolled his eyes as he reached into his bag of bits. Rarity returned to her place a victorious Spike the Great and Honorable Brave and Glorious was waiting with fresh refreshments. The CMC 'Date Crashers!' now nowhere to be seen. If anything he was a handy little bundle of scales. --------------------------------------------------------------2nd base-------------------------------------------------- Shadow Spade was again in danger as our intrepid couple ignored the plotline and made their own story. Spike and Rarity were caught up in the heat of the moment as they necked and kissed with cautious abandon. Snuggly goodness and passion was on Raritys menu and Spike was eager to please. "Smack - Snort - Giggle - Snogger" The noise echoed through the theatre stopping every pony in their tracks. A situation causing the ushers to beam their flash lights on the offending R rated couple. All eyes were focused on the two offending lovers including Spike and Rarity who knew the soon to be shagging couple. "Pinkie!?" Rarity blurted out as Spike uttered "Shining Armor? What about your wife and Flurry Heart!" Pinkie opened one eye then her other eye and looked at her audience as if nothing was going on as Shining Armor dissolved in a green flame into a blushing changeling "I'd get a hotel room but the theatre's cheaper" the skittle bug joked as Pinkie fixed her mane, "Hi Rarity how's it doing? This is Doomie met him in Canterlot...Are you going to finish that?" Rarity in a fit of exasperation gave Pinkie her refreshments and taking her dragon in tow made way to the exits as Pinkie smiled "I bet they have enough bits for a great room". Shadow Spades words echoed as Doomie watched the two leave "So you think you've seen the last of me you've got another thing coming!" -----------------------------------------------------3rd base------------------------------------------------------------- As the two exited the theatre it was obvious that the evenings pranks were in the air as with tons of rain. Rarity stood under the entrances awning as Spike grabbed a lid off a local garbage can and used it as an improvised cover from the falling wet. But all that stopped as she glared down at him, then motioned with her eyes under no uncertain terms was that filthy lid going nowhere near her. He tossed it back and with her eyes now approving of his thoughts behind his action she coxed "Come Precious Scales it's only a little rain". They ventured out only to hop back quickly as they heard a carriage speeding along the street. What they got was brown lots and lots of brown sticky mud. One blue eyed mud figure and another squatty mud figure stood in the pouring rain. All they could do was watch the pelting drops wash away of all the goo. As it did little by little they walked along quietly picking out odd debris by magic or claw, Raritys mane and tail hung limp her makeup washed off and Spikes spines wilted. All was bare to the world as they looked at the castle far across town and with a shrug they both started the wet voyage "What would Shadow Spade do?" "Trot with style my silly dragon". After a short time the two arrived at Twilights Castle where Spike noticed that the rain was quite selective of what did or didn't get wet. "Ah Rarity is it just me or are we the only things getting wet around here?" Rarity eyed the now obvious dark puffy rain cloud hovering above them "Rainbow Dash we've seen through your little subterfuge, You can come out now!" A snicker floated on the wind as the cloud piloted away "Have fun, But not too much fun. Hope you two love birds don't mind me raining on your parade. Good cider doesn't pay for itself" From Dashies snickering smile there was no doubt Scootaloo paid a few bits for her watery services. -------------------------------------------------home------------------------------------------------ Spike and Rarity stood watching the little black rain cloud with the colorful prismatic tail skitter off and now that the movie date was cut short Spike thought of what his date needed at the moment. Dried off warmed up and pampered. "My lady may I invite you in for a warm toweling and a hot chocolate with those tasty little marsh mellows bits?" "Spikey dear, Precious Scales are you trying to bribe me with hot chocolate with itty bitty marsh mellows?" "It was worth a shot don't you think?" Rarity took Spike in her hooves and when they were eye to eye "and the warm towel?" "I spent all day cleaning the castle floors and it sort of sucks having to do a job twice". "Some jobs are worth doing over and over and over". "Yea, over and over". Rarity began to nuzzle and lightly peck Spikes snout and lips his eyes closed as his claws lightly rubbed her cheeks soon she also closed her eyes and her hooves became limp. Rarity was floating in the moment when a buzzing caught her ears and was it her imagination or was Spike getting taller? Rarity peeked with one eye, Her dragon was hovering his wings a blur and he had a look that said it all Rarity my dear you've got him good. Then again he's always been my Spikey Wikey. Spike opened his eyes his lips parting from hers and becoming his signature dopy grin. His wings buzzed and they closed in for another smooch when the castle door opened surprising them both Spike would of face planted if not for Twilights quick actions of horn and spell. "Don't just sit there wet and freezing you two get yer cabooses in here" AJ called out her knowing smile welcomed them in. Twilight carried them both from the steps to the waiting foyer of the castles keep. --------------------------------------------foul play---------------------------------------- Spike dozed off after his multiple doses of hot chocolate kicked in. His pampering of the lady Rarity was a feat all in itself, well done with claws and help from Twilights magic. Rarity and the gals had a nice off the record meeting about Fluttershy and Apple Jacks adventure with the Kirin Village. Spike dozed off mid way through and was snuggled along Raritys side. "So I take it your movie date didn't go so well?" AJ quizzed her. "It went quite well with the exception of some saboteurs, But my Spikey Wikey handled the Cutie Mark Hooligans very well as for my sister I'm sure we'll have a little talk later". Twilight looked at Fluttershy and coxed her to join in the round table giving her a knowing grin. I seduced Discord "What did you say dear?" I seduced Discord! Apple Jack was the only one surprised as Fluttershy spilled past her self imposed prison. I have a crush on Discord! Oh! I'm sorry I didn't want to wake up Spike there! Spikes answer was "ZZZZZZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzz mumble mumble Rarity ZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzZZZ". "Twilight dear we all know about Miss Shys little romantic nuance. All except our hard working farmmare, No offense". "None taken". Twilight looked a little miffed as to her botched surprise. Only Apple Jack didn't know? "Don't look so put out Twilight. we talk all the time at the spa, You should get out more often". "I do get out!" Twilight squeaked "Really I do". It was getting late in the castle friendship as Twilight the others had ventured to their homes and Rarity became the vanguard of dragon snuggles. Twilight and Rarity conspired to be at Spikes side in the morning even if the question was rather awkward "Twilight would you mind if I slept with Spikey tonight?" Her pause was short "I mean not in a ... Oh that didn't come out right at all" Rarity was on the spot. Twilight jumped at the chance "Wow I always wanted to observe and take notes on..." "I just wanted to see his precious expression on his face when he sees me snuggled with him when he wakes up". "Nothing more?" Twilight teased "Like maybe just a little bit?" "I didn't take you for the voyeuristic type" "Only for the science!" "How about we just sleep here in the couch tonight dear and finish your plans of your little debauchery in the morning". Twilight rolled by her two best friends as Rarity hugged her drake, The lady felt the warmth of the dragon as her Alicorn besty covered them with her wings. Twilight mused "So was this how Celestia felt when Spike and I stayed up too late all those years ago?" ----------------------------------------------Wakey wakey ------------------------------------------ The morning came all too soon for the three as the castle doors banged open and a conversation started to intrude on the still sleeping dream voyagers. "Father I hope we're not late it's nearly noon". "My daughter dear I'm sure out invitation had us scheduled for the day and we've wasted nearly half of it at that corner café eating most their bake goods even the new Dragon Lord gave us a budget to adhere to". "Oh there's Rarity" A sniff was followed by "So that's her Spike! Father your description was exactly as you said". "I'll assume the Princess of Friendship is the one on top, I'll have to assume that's the dominate position". Rarity opened her eyes to see two familiar faces from the resent past and let out the most ladylike yawn in Ponyvilles history. Coaline sat contented by her fathers side and raised a clawed hoof wiggling her digits. "Toodles, Good afternoon Rarity is that Spikes mom, Did you and you Spike finally get to making little ones? Where's the little dragons room I'm so excited I got to go pee". The half breed trotted away after Rarity pointed her the way to the little fillys powder room. Rarity now had one job to do. Just one job. Twilight the zombie nerd felt a nudge "Spike can you answer the door?" she mumbled. Then another nudge answered likewise and then a slug to the withers as she hard booted into the land of the living. "Oh! who? What time is it? What day is it?" Twilight crashed to the floor in a heap her bed head taking revenge as fur and feathers shook out of sync. "How grand it is to see the care taker of the once Dragon Lord Spike and his Dame Dragon Rarity". "Kull the Ambassador pleased to see you again, Kull meet Princess Twilight Sparkle, Twilight, This is Kull". "Oh wow nice to put a face to all those letters we've exchanged, Wow I'm such a mess excuse me for a moment" A bright purple flash and a pop of ozone the Princess was gone. "Your Princess of Friendship, I like her already, and I see Dragon Lord Spike is well as is you my Dame Dragon Rarity". Kull bowed to the two with flourished claw movements. Rarity was confused at all the bowing and formal addresses even when it was expected from another to a proper lady of style. But this screamed too much like a botched puppet theatre. "Kull dear no need to bow here were all friends" "Dragon protocol demands it for the mate of a Dragon Lord". "Isn't Ember the Dragon Lord and Spike and I have been only on our first date as of late". "As you must know" Kull sat on his tail for this was going to take a little time to explain "After correspondence with your Princess I've come into some interesting facts about your courtship as it pertains to dragon laws and customs Dame Dragon Rarity, Spike and yourself exchanged gifts and after his birthday he forcibly took you to a mountain cave where he confessed his attraction to you...." Rarity interrupted with a chuckle "But really" Kull smiled "And now look at you two, Even his hatch mother approves, Even after Spike abdicated the throne to the Dragon Lord Ember just to be at your side, you two move like a pair of cave sloths...No offense". "None taken dear". --------------------------------------->O.O<-------------------------------- Spike heard a delightful conversation as he awoke, Rarity? Kull? and an older Scootaloo? His eyes opened to see Coalines big ol orange eyeballs framed in emerald green scales and glossy black fur with cute little pony ears looking back with a fang filled toothy grin No not creepy at all! Maybe? , Spike rubbed his eyes and focused on the half breed "Ok what Twilight do now?" His eyes became clear as he saw Kull beside the dracony a big smile on his snout too "Let me introduce ourselves, I am Ambassador Kull retired and my daughter Coaline I'm her to meet with the Princess of Friendship". Spike looked a Rarity and then Coaline "So this isn't Twilights work?" Rarity bowed down to Spikes ear fluke and whispered "This is Kulls child from an earth pony more like pleasure then work wouldn't you say?" Spikes response was a not so ground shattering "Cool" as the idea then seeped into his brain... Seriously COOL! Twilight came prancing down the crystal stairs all covered in her Royal trappings, A Twili-cane, golden shoes, that goofy crown and her lengthy Rarity custom designed Princess dress 🇹🇲. She hit the landing nearly stumbling and face planting in front of her gusts. Kull and Twilight bowed to each other and started to stroll out the castle with Spike and Rarity following until a magical wall stopped them. "Coaline's here to bird sit Owlowicious in the Library and we're going out tonight and don't expect us back until late tomorrow and this is for you two newlyweds" A flash of purple flames resulted in a parchment in front of Spike and Rarity when it unrolled the flustered pairs jaws came unhinged as their eyes bugged out. "Spikes new word for the week reciprocity that's your certificate of dragon marriage it's as good as the one you'd get from the Mayor" Twilight giggled "Get busy Romeo". Kull laughed as he escorted Twilight away "I've always liked the nerdy types well played Princess, Well played, Take care Coaline foods in the galley ask the owl where". Rarity bristled and yelled "I shall not be bred like one of Apple Jacks farm animals Twilight you will rue the day!" The fashion mare looked at her Spikey Wikey "It's not the same without the romance". They watched the Princess with her date exit the castle and lock the door while Coaline went for her reading area Spike looked at Rarity with lustful eyes and asked his Dame Dragon lady "Are you thinking what I'm thinking?" "Yes Spikey shall we?" The two darted off with a devious plan... To devour all the goodies and Ice cream their bellies could hold. After all romance can take a lot out of a couple.
Courts & bits//------------------------------// MARKED// by Hillbe//------------------------------// "The Superior Court of Equestria has come to it's decision. You Spike the Dragon is hearby ordered to pay for the damages of Poneyville property and loss of business from your rampage on or about the times and date listed. The court also recognizes your services to Equestria in it's time of need. All other charges are suspended and removed from the record. Mr. The Dragon will not be remanded into custody and he has forty-five days to pay the debt off unless other arrangements can be made with the Superior Court Clerk. The superior Court of Equestria is recessed next case please. " ... Out on the court house steps Spike waddled along looking at the bill for the damages. "How in Celestia can I get enough bits to pay this off?" AJ looked at the bottom line and rambled "Yep, sure a heap of bits there" Rainbow put a hoof to her head "Maybe the Wonderbolts could do a benefit show?" Twilight peeked at the parchment "Don't think so, The order states he has forty-five days to pay, You can't even organize your closet let alone a benefit show" Dashie hovered replying only with a silent stink eye. Fluttershy squeaked "Perhaps a silent auction, If you don't mind, If it's not too much?" As her voice faded to that of a butterfly. ... Rarity sang out "We could dig for gems, It's not like we can't deal with the dirt in a too fashionable way" Twilight calculated "If we work together we will take five and a half days to find that amount needed to pay off the debt and then some" They all let out a collective nod on agreement. Rainbow crossed her hooves "That's all good for you earth ponies digging, But what about us flyers?" Twilight smiled as gears in her head started to spin to life. "We all have our parts to do, Rainbow & Fluttershy can fly in supplies and fly out the trash. Pinkie, myself and Spike will dig while Rarity hunts for the gems." Twilight whips out a book. 'A Gem hunters guide to untold riches ' "Follow this and we'll work together more efficiently." Twilight lectured on and on , I'll set up the schedules. Plan on meeting up at sun rise day after tomorrow. North side of town, Mare Belle street." ... Lone figures walked the streets in the cool of the morning, The sun just peeking over the hills of Canterlot. They gathered at the edge of Ponyville and headed for the gem fields. The big hunt begins. Rarity had her deluxe fold-a-mansion 'camping set', Ordered from an old Mares and Robucks catalog. AJ ,Twilight and Spike had simple ruck sacks and bed rolls. Rainbow with Fluttershy had their clouds. Pinkie pie bounded along pulling her wagon with balloons and streamers flowing in the wind. One hoof after another they clopped and trotted along the trails and paths. ... After a few hours and some horse play they arrived at the gem fields, A barren area of stones ,dirt ,scrub brush ,edged by a few rolling hills on the edge of nowhere special. Twilight called to Rainbow "Check out the area for any diamond dogs, We don't need to be wasting any time with them" Rainbow snapped a salute and launched into the blue "We had enough drama the last time we were here!" Glowing eyes watched from afar as AJ, Twilight and the rest set up camp. Spike laid out the fire ring, stones of different sizes forming a pit filled with sticks and wood, Around the ring were the bed rolls , ruck sacks ,a wagon and opposite of the rustic camping gear was Raritys mini palace so large and fabulous it brought it's own zip code. ... AJ snickered "Gosh darned castle has plumbing and an indoor tub with a shower. Spike huffed a small emerald flame and the camp fire came to life. Spike looked up at the group of Equestrias best and cleared his throat. "I'ed like to thank you all for helping me in my hour of need "Spike paused "It really means a lot to me" AJ smiled " No sweat Spike I know you would do the same for me" "Not a problem Spike "Twilight mused " You've helped all us girls from one time to another, Apple Jack at her farm, Pinkie at Sugar Cube Corner and don't forget all those long hours at Raritys Boutique" AJ winked and slyly said "We all know about those countless late night hours Spike spends at Raritys." Rarity let out a gasp "Apple Jack How dare you..." "Where's the grub!" Yelled Rainbow as she zoomed in for landing. Dashie trotted up to Twilight "Didn't see anything during the patrol" The minutes dragged along. Spike and AJ cooked over the fire as Twilight explained the details of her plan, They settled in afterwards to beans, biscuits, hay hash ,grits and mud black coffee, ... Rarity was aghast of the rustic field rations and hard tack listed as this mornings menu. "Spikey dear, Can you please bring me some of my private stock if you may?" Laughter erupted as they enjoyed their evening meals and fancy feasts. The fire glowed as the campers secured for the night, Cook gear put away, bed rolls laid out and an escort to her palace by the neighborhood drake. The roll call of good nights echoed under the stars. "Good night, MiLady" "Good night, My Spikey Wikey" "Good night, Ya' all" "Good night, AJ, Rariry, Rainbow, Pinkie , Spike get over here!" "Good night, We have an awesome day tomorrow!" "Good night, TwilightRaritySpikeAppleJackRainbowGummyLuna And Maud Where ever you are!" "Good night, everyone." The night was quiet and sleep came easy. The eyes from afar still watched and waited. ... "Git up everypony!" AJ bellowed "Biscuits, Coffee, Hay browns and WE'RE BURNIN DAYLIGHT!" They all opened their eyes to the new day. Rainbow squinted from her cloud above. "Raise and shine!" AJ roared. Dashie grumbled in reply "You rise You shine!" Pinkie popped into Rainbows view "Potato chips?" Her manic face smiled "Breakfast of champions". Rarity raised her sleep mask from her eyes to find a daisy resting on her pillow. They all prepared for the day, Ate some ash and grit encrusted breakfast and carried out Twilights instructions. Raritys gem spell worked wonders . Spikes claws dug along with Pinkies combat spade and Twilights shovel. Rarity marked places to dig as the others dug out jewels like the Equstrian Corps of Engineers. ... Mark after mark, hole after hole. They worked "Twilight my dear, We need to talk about Spike". Twilight giggled "I know where this is going" Rarity marked several other finds "You do?" Twilight popped the dirt out with the magic from her horn. "I saw him put that daisy on your pillow" Twilight said. Rarity looked at Twi "Why a daisy?" Twi continued "He improvised, You don't see any roses growing anyplace close do you? You're worried about his little crush going too far?" Twilight felt she was in a pickle of a spot. Raritys horns magic faded "He's such a dear" She looked at the cold earth at her hooves. "and yet it's so difficult for..." Twilight put a hoof on her side "Give it time I'm sure he'll grow out of it" Rarity bit her lower lip and sighed "think so?" Twilight shrugged her withers and continued digging. ... By lunch time they had piled a small hoard of gems by the camp site. Twilight lectured as they ate lunch. "At this pace we'll be adding another two days, So I'm going to be pairing up everypony differently, Rainbow fly back to Ponyville and get some extra hooves. Spike and Rarity hunt and pre-dig the holes, I'll use a gem finding spell with AJ and Pinkey digging. When we get the extra hooves they can collect the jewels from the holes it might save a little time, Pinkie less bouncing and a little more shoveling" Pinkie spun her hooves raising a dust cloud and rolling her eyes "Okey dokie, smoking holies!" They resumed the hunt ,The field was now an enormous pock marked territory almost the size of Ponyville. Pinkie. AJ and Twilight were finding ,marking and digging and enjoying a little gossip talk. "You're tellin me after all this time he still takes out her garbage as well?" AJ looked at Twilight "Ya let him?" Pinkie swung her combat spade and sighed "Can't be as bad as having him model her new line of infant ware" She giggled "Poor Spikey has it bad and that's good isn't it?" Spike and Rarity were finding, marking and digging. Well he was doing the digging anyway. Raritys horn sparked , sputtered and pulled the mare along in a cloud of dirt and dust. "Wow, Rarity you've got something big!" Spike set off after the out of control Hay puff marsh mellow mare. ... Her horn lead them to a small path high above a river on the edge of nowhere, Rarity marked the spot with an X with her hoof. Stepping back she sat on her haunches. As Spike dug Rarity softly spoke "Ah Spikey ,I've been thinking about your ah em..." Spike continued digging launching clods of dirt and sod over his head. "Well Spike it's about us..."Raritys voice trailed off. Spike piped up "Twilight knows about the daisy, I just wanted to let you have something nice to wake up to" He dug his hole deeper and deeper. An astonished Rarity looked at the digging drake and started to rip him a new one by announcing "It's not proper to enter a ladys room, Even to leave such a gift and what I need to say to you is...". "JACK POT!" Yelled Spike. Rarity looked down at the gems as Spike Excavated the hole even further. Spike looked up his eyes met hers all he could say was "Wow What a haul" and he mused ' She's so dazzling!' ... Rarity used her horns magic to pull the gems from the hole. Stacking them ever so neatly. Spike scampered up to the edge of the trail and plopped himself down. Wiping off the dirt and debris. Spike and Rarity looked at each other , A shared blush ignited across their cheeks like a growing wild fire, They said together "We need to talk" Their eyes blinking shyly ,Beads of sweat forming in the cool air. That pregnant pause before the tempest slowly grew. He leaned in .in a little more, A small bit more. . . 'CRACKEL' The sound of splitting branches and falling dirt caught them by surprise, Spike fell backwards sliding down the far side of the path, Rarity gasped and charged her horn. She raised up off her cutie marked flank. But Spike tumbled and rolled too far out of range, "Spikey!" She called out. .... 'Thud, thud, Thump! splash' A dirt covered Spike tumbled in the river that went to no place special. "You can do this! Swim" He told himself. and he thought 'Dog paddle ! Pony paddle ! Dragon paddle !' He looked up to see Rarity on the path above running after him, "Spikey" She called out, "I'm OK Rarity!" Spike spat out. Gasping for breath And splashing his claws he continued down stream. "Spikey" She screamed as the mare continued to run above the river following the path after him. Spike crawled to shore ,wet, cold. Covered in mud bugs. Moving on all fours he made it up the river bank. Then 'whomp' Everything faded to black. The last word he heard was "Spikey" ... Rarity looked down at the river where she last saw Spike, Down stream was open water. The river banks sparsely covered in scrub brush left few places to hide, Her eyes searched the muddy edges for a speck of purple and green. The dragon was nowhere to be seen. Her fire quenched. But the storm in her grew. She called her drakes name, With no answer she felt a frozen hole where her heart was. " Spikey where did you go?" Rarity whimpered , anxiously prancing in place. The mare paused pondering on her next course of action when a brown form grabbed her from the flank. The pressure on her neck caused everything to go gray, Unable to breath, unable to think. She stumbled to her knees and as the gray turned to black she heard voices. "I smell her fear" "She's been marked" Another said "Let's take her..." Author's Note This is a first
It smellsSpike was seeing dancing stars. His splitting headache drummed, Right now he could hear snails scream. He had seen better days. Mumbling has to be a good thing ,For now it was the only thing he could do. "Can you get the number of that carriage that hit me?" He grunted. Spike rolled over onto his back looking up. He saw smooth stone walls that circled up further than he could jump. It was dark where he was . Gray stones accented with browns and black. He thought it could use a bit of slate to break up the mood what a fashionable nightmare. He face clawed for the moment of dumb, I must be hanging out with rarity too much. He was in the bottom of a pit with no light below only from the hole above did torch light reflecting from the cave roof high above show the vague shadows his environment. Looking in the dark Spike rubbed the bruise on his head and squeaked "Rarity?" ... Rarity awoke in a noisy arena . The torches were shielded so only the center area was illuminated. The chaotic din flowed. Her head spinning as the assault of her senses grew. Noise, dirt ,smoke and B.O. She could see glowing eyes watching her from the shadows of the cavern . Eyes of anger, Eyes of hate. Eyes of greed. Eyes of lust. The noise settled a little when a set of red eyes to her left hushed the crowd . "Who are you , What are you doing here?" The red eyes questioned with a profane tone. Rarity gathered her wits and took a breath, "Please, I need help finding my friend" The red eyes rolled with no reply. Her eyes pleaded "I'm Miss Rarity, Please help me find Spike" , "YOU LIE" a set of yellow eyes jabbed sniffing the air loudly. She turned her head to see the yellow eyes repeat "You LIE" Rarity stood upright saying "Why should you doubt me?" Yellow eyes quizzed her "Where's your mate?" Miss Blue eyes answered "I have no mate" Yellow sniffs again "Is that so?" ... Rarirys eyes looked around at the multicolored eyes in the shadows of the cavern ,Little eyes , Big eyes, Blood shot eyes All uncaring. Yellow eyes broke the silence "Who do you think you are to ask of anything!" Rarity then pleads to the wall of eyes. "I need help finding my friend, Please" Red eyes answer "Your friends are of no concern to us, Why are you in our territory?". She asked again "Please can..." "Help your self !" Red said "We do not approve of your transgression" Rarity looked at her hooves" We didn't intend on disturbing anyone" Yellow piped up " You are disturbing us, Where's your consort?" Rarity raised her head batting her eye lashes "I told you before ,I have no pony" The yellow eyes glared at her. "I CAN SMELL HIM!" Rarity cocked her head in confusion "I don't understand" ... Rarity trembled and wanted if she could to shrink into her own shadow "What is it you want from me?" The voices in the arena increased from all over, A cascade of harsh hungry noises. "I need a slave" "She would make a fine meal" "It would make a nice pet" "I'm all for a snack" "A slave first, Then eat it" "I've got other ideas" "A slave" "A snack" "A toy for my child" "ENOUGH" A feminine voice rang out. "Can't you see that you're scaring her" The riot of noise faded to a low virulent grumbling in the shadows of the gallery. The feminine voice spoke through the thorns "Father, Is she what my mother looked like?" A faint whispering flowed through the crowd like blood dripping from a sponge. "freak" "That one" Voices in the dark. " It's her" "Such a monster" " A mockery of our race" "Hideous half breed" "gross" ... A commanding voice rang out through the dark "ENOUGH, I will have none of that! Order, I tell you ORDER!" The new voice eyed the White unicorn in the lit center of the chaos." Will the gallery please vacate... NOW!" Quiet returned to the cavern as the assortment of colored eyes left leaving the little echo. "Father? Is she what my mother looked like?" His voice now had a gentle royal tone "No, Not exactly dear, Your mothers fur was as dark as Lunas night. And she was Not a unicorn" Rarity sat in the circle of light she was still in the dark Would it be prudent to interrupt the voices?. Rarity took a slight nervous breath and asked her question "Who are you may I ask?" "I am ambassador Kull" He said from the safety of the dark with the glint of spears at his side. Raritys mouth and heart opened up. 'At last resemblance of a civil society !' She took a deep breath "If I may introduce myself I am Miss Rarity from Ponyvi..." Kull continued "Yes. you are one of the powerful ones, Who have the resources to take over my world" ... Rarity gasped and got off her plot to face her accuser in the dark "I assure you we have no such plans ." Kull interrupted her to continue "Miss Rarity ,Here in the bad lands survival is not measured in bits. I've been witness to it's harsh requirements, Raw power is respected and often abus..." Kull was now interrupted . "Father?" she asked "May I take a closer look, Please?" "Rarity , Please excuse my daughter if you may , She's a bit forward as you can hear" Kull sniffs the air and his green eyes nod the spears in the dark retreat. Rarity in return curtsied exclaiming " I have no objection if it pleases you" Two flame orange eyes fixed on Rarity and the form came into the light. It shimmered and flowed, Scales of emerald green framed in jet black fur. Fur so black it shined blue in the torch lights glow. It's hooves ended in small black claws, Her tail was that of reptiles , She was topped with a flowing black mane from the top of her head to the tip of her tail. She walked with a fluid grace unknown to the likes of the fashionesta but for her friend FlutterShy . Rarity awed in her wake and said "I've never seen such a fashionable creature, Oh Celestia! By what name do they have for such a breath taking being such as yourself?" ... The creature smiled a toothy fanged smile. "I am what I am, Those in the peanut gallery call me, Fuzz ball. Freak, Dork, Kulls half breed, Black sludge..." "Coaline !" Kull voiced his disapproval . Rarity looked into the dark asking "Sir? If I may ask, She said I looked like her mother" Kull took a breath and spoke softly "She, Her mother was a Canterlot mare" I met her at a royal function years back, We were so different yet it was a happy time" His voice cracked but he continued. "I was young and just starting my position as ambassadors assistant, My precious Coaline arrived shortly there after a surprise for everyone involved". ... Rarity studied Coaline and wondered out loud "So she's the love child of a pony and..." As if she didn't know the answer already . , Kull spoke kindly, Softly " Dragons my dear Rarity" He Paused "A pony and a dragon" The green eyed form stepped from the dark to the light and Raritys eyes were slammed with an overload of information. Coalines father stood proud. .... "SPIKE?" Gasped Rarity his name popped out in an automatic reaction to what she saw. A small purple dragon, 'Spikes' twin. Other than the scares and deeper voice. He was the splitting image of her Spikey Wikey in every way. Kull looked over at Raritys scrunched muzzle . "Spike?" He came closer to the stunned mare and sniffed "Spike?" Kull snickered "So that's who marked you, Isn't it?" Raritys eyes met his and she turned to Coaline "Marked?" Rarity was clueless "By what ever do you mean?" Coaline giggled with a toothy grin "No? Father she doesn't know, How Sweet" Rarity in the torch light was still truly in the dark. ... Spike stared up to the light above his hole. "Hello, Anypony up there?" Spike almost spoke his thoughts 'How the heck did I get down here? 'The last thing I can remember is that cold water' "HELLO?" A voice above calls out "Hay the whelps awake" A gravely voice answers "What do you want?" "Out of this hole for starters" Yells Spike. Voices full of laughter reply "What do you think we are ,Stupid?" Spike rolled his eyes and crossed his arms "Well Duh.." The voices collectively answer "Were not the one stuck down a hole, Ha Ha Ha Ha " Spike sighed " Well if you don't mind , I could use a few gems or an oat burger" A roar of laughter filled the holes top "Oat burgers? What do you think you are ? A pony?" Gravely spoke "Hay, Guys we've got a ponyphile in our pit!" The voices vacillated about "So that's the stink in our pit" "Where's your mane and cutie mark?" "We got a filly fluffer Boys," " Don't you know it's rude to play with your food?" Gravely yelled down the hole "Don't you know dragons EAT ponies !" ... Spikes claws clenched into little balls of rage "Not all dragons eat ponies" Mr. Gravely taunted "So, So , Next , Next you'll ask us for some ice cream, Ha Ha Ha , Here's some left overs Pony boy" Something lands at Spikes feet. Some bone, meat bloodied with fur, Spike looks at the mess, It's a hoof. His body goes into dry heaves, His world spins "Nooooo" He holds back a scream, He kicks the bloody hoof off into a dark corner and he goes to his knees. His mind and stomach rolling at the thought. "Not all dragons eat ponies" Spikey laid on the cold stone floor and cried to himself " I could never do that" His thoughts race and his panic flared "Gosh ,I hope Rarity's safe." Spike looked up at the light "I hope they didn't find her" Rarity looked at Kull and Coaline "What's so funny?" Coaline giggled "Father ,She really doesn't know" Kull smiled "We dragons mark our family" Kull held up a claw " It's probably why you didn't end up as you would say 'Drake chow". Rarity still oblivious to the words. Marked? Drake chow? Family? Kulls smile flattened out. "Miss Rarity, Do you remember the remarks you heard as you were held here? The unkind remarks and taunts?" Kull lectured on "Dragons thou a noble race harbor a darker side. Slaves are made of other species and rouge clans still eat ponies" Rarity gasped "EAT?" Kull sighed "yes, Eat! Some dragons respect the mark, Rouge dragons respect none. That's how I lost Coalines mother, How I lost my mate." Kulls eyes welled up. ... "That's what some dragons are, Remember not all dragons are.." ."Savage brutes!" Rarity injected. Kull smiled weakly "Miss Rarity , you have the same spirit much like she had" Kull rambled on "It's a hard life here in the lands of the dragon. You breed early or your blood line faces oblivion. Only the few strong or lucky beasts will ever live long lives. Even fewer learn to love outside the family clan" Kull waddled to the center of the arena and sat down. "Some dragons have harems , Others have hoards of treasure." He looked up to the ceiling and sighed "I have my precious Coaline and the memories of her mother" The last words made Rarity blush. Coaline laughed "Rarity? Did your Spike mark you?" Rarity gasped "Spikey! Oh dearest Spike, I need a little help" She took a pause. "I've lost Spikey. Please, The last moment I saw him was in the river by the gem fields" Kull listened and summoned another drake in armor, He spoke to it and quickly the armored sentry slithered into the dark. ... Kull raised a brow "You called me 'Spike' when you first saw me, Is your companion a drake?" Rarity looked down at her hooves and a faint "yes" passed her lips. She thought to herself. ' Why am I answering like Fluttershy?' Coaline teased her "Do you like your Spikey Poo?" Rarity in a flustered answer stumbled with her words "He's a wonderful friend and a gentle colt,ah dragon" Coaline nudged her "Come on now. Just a friend?" Rarity fully blushed as Coline continued with a whisper " He-Marked-You!" A pause after each word. ... Raritys eyes popped open her pupils just pricks of blue "My Spikey Wikey marked Oui? How? When? He's not that type of pony er dragon , ah drake, My Spikey?" Coaline looked in amazement at Raritys drama , She placed a claw on the white mares withers. "Even I smell your Spike" Rarity calmed down. Her head cocked to the side her eyes looking for an answer. " Coaline ,How do you mark your family?" The half breed, Pongon , Dracony, what ever answered with a turn "Here's how" She approached her father ,They came together and rubbed cheek to cheek. They looked over at a very confused marsh mellow studying the moment . "Is that it?" Rarity whimpered. What ? Nothing more? ... Coaline rolled her eyes at the mare and said "No? This is what it is!" She strutted up to Rarity and spoke softly "Your Spikey is the lucky one" Coaline nuzzled Raritys cheek and gave it a hard rub. The unicorn blushed at her words. Was this a mark? What scent is that? No. . . What do I smell? She took her hoof across her cheek and took a whiff. "Coaline was that a mark?" Coaline nodded with amusement and looked at the purple drake sitting in the torch light. Raritys brain popped into overdrive stripping a few gears 'My Spikey? That scent! I know it !'Nooooo ... Strawberries ! Spikey? Raritys mind raced back through time... Oh no! The MARECYS Department store! "I'm returning my Palmare number five for a full refund! This perfume is obviously defective ! My purchase was for vanilla number five and NOT Strawberries number TWO ! The clerk at the counter shook his head and told the irate mare "All of our products go through the highest standards in quality control". "But SMELL this!" She huffed. Rarity popped the top and sprayed her defective spritzer . The clerk was a true agent of the corporation. Gagging on the stink of strawberries and vanilla he said "Madam , If you PLEASE, All products are to be returned to the main office in Mare-Belle Rue Prance. We only sell the stuff, I can't help you, It's MARECYS policy with special order foreign products" Rarity whined on. "This continuing issue you have with defective stock and customer disservice is such a bothersome affair. Where's your manager in CHARGE ! ,, I insist on...." ... Rarity snaps back to the scent just seconds ago . "My Spikey? Strawberries!" Back in the light Coaline looked at Rarity snapping a clawed hoof in front of Raritys eyes"Are you OK?". Rarity stared back with a blank look of a thousand hooves, All the hugs, All the snuggles. All the times she was close to him, Her Spikey Wikey of all ponies er ah drakes. Kulls voice tapped into the silence "Ahem" Rarity snapped out of her trance and breathed once more. "You are free to go Miss Rarity" Kull continued "I have other business to attend to, A guard and Coaline will see you out" Rarity nodded numbly and asked " Have they found Spike?" Kull laughed "Your Spike IS my other business" Ambassador Kull bowed his head. "A pleasure to be at your service Miss Rarity , I bid you fare thee well and Coaline dinner is in the evening please don't come late" "Yes , Father" Coaline pointed her clawed hoof to the way out. Author's Note [ YOUR TAX DOLLARS AT WORK ] ////////// DANGER FALLING ROCKS \\\\\
Spiked timeThey strolled along exiting the caverns. Coaline, Rarity and the usual no named guard in shining armor took a slow pace. Raritys mind raced as her visit was too short and she wished Twilight was with her . Of all the mares that she knew of she too needed to learn of Spike and his kind. Rarity wanted more. Rarity asked "Coaline? If I might ask, How old was your father when you were born?". Rarity took a small breath." I don't mean to be so bold" She held on to the air in her lungs. ... "I was a yearling when my mom died" Coaline paused in thinking. "Sixteen years solar" She replied. Rarity stopped and shook her head thinking. 'Losing her mother at such a young age, How tragic' Coaline mused "Not all dragons are bad and we have no choice to what clan we're born into, But we can still make a difference in who we are and who are friends are" . Rarity glanced up to see Coalines fangs and toothy smile shimmering in the sun light. Raritys eyes stung in the mid day sun and then it hit her like Toms exit from the Golden Oaks Library. She vapor locked and gasped "SIXTEEN SOLAR YEARS!" Her jaw hit the ground . As her eyes popped out and back into her sockets and a voice that resembled a screaming butterfly. "Sixteen solar years!" She thought a bit Spike's much older than Coaline Almost as old as Twilight, Oh my... " Oh Spikey, Here's some more divine pleasure for my brave noble dragon" He could only answer "Hummmm" Raritys horns glowing increased and Spikes rapture brought shivers up his spine , Rarity spoke in his ear "I don't want to go any faster my Spikey wikey , It could get painful " Spike said "Bring it on" Her horn glowed even brighter as another scoop of vanilla oat swirl ice cream filled his mouth . "Hay Dork, wake up" Gravely called. Spike was asleep in the pit. Heck, Why not? He had nothing else to do. A small rock bounced off Spikes noodle. 'DOINK' "Ouch!" Spike awoke and rubbed his head. "What was that for?" He sputtered. He fumbled around and grabbed the rock and in a fit threw it up aiming at his captors. It sailed up , Bounced on the walls and ricochet from its intended mark. Gravity sucks. The drake covered his green spines and scampered around avoiding the falling stone. "Should of paid attention to Twilights physics classes " 'THUD' Spike squinted at the light above. A voice called down "You awake there stinky?" Spike grumbled "Yeah and I'm still hungry" A black sack landed at his feet. A rope uncoiled next to him from above. "Put the bag on your head and grab the rope Pony boy ,vacations over" . A gravely voice huffed "I don't like your kind and don't come back". ... Spike did as he was told and under breath said "Glad to see you jerks never". The guards grabbed him and as he was lead away the purple drake had one last thing to say "I'm so outa here". Raritys shock wore off as she walked along the path , Coalines scales shimmered . Her coat held the fire of the sun. Her orange eyes shined like flaming embers. She looked at the clawed hooves and the graceful sway of her tail, Swishing , Half dragon half pony. The mare continued to quizz her toothy friend " What is it you normally eat?" Coaline beamed "Anything ! But I love Oat burgers, Hay Fries, Maretalian food and Ice cream, Gems are fine But I find them a little hard to pass". ... Rarity and Coaline continued to chat and walk till the nothing special no named guard in shining armor interrupted them. " This is far as we go" He informed them. The no named as usual guard in shining armor pointed down the path. "Your friend is that away" . Coaline and Rarity said their good byes . "I'll have father contact your Embassy ponies in Canterlot". She nuzzled Raritys cheek and returned from where she came. A Strawberry scent following the winds. ... Raritys walk continued and she saw an odd but familiar sight, Up ahead on the path sat Spike on a flat rock with a black sack covering his head. "Hero of the Crystal Empire, Messenger to Princess sun butt and Princess Twilight friggin Sparkle, Savior of the Equestria games" Spike grumbled " Don't take it off or else" . "What a bunch of jerks, I must be related to the Flutters family" Spike continued to rant. " Now I sit here for what ever with a stupid bag over my head. Gosh I'm such a dor..". His ear flukes perked up as he heard a muffled snicker. " Oh ..No ,Lets make fun of the idiot with a bag over his head". "Oh My, Spikey Wikey" She pouted. Placing a hoof over her mouth to stop a laugh or two. Spike whipped the bag off his head and saw her eyes locked with his. He hopped off the rock running and reaching out to hug his marsh mellow mare. Tripping together they collide with a muffled thump Rarity could smell the strawberries as she rubbed her cheek with his. At the same instant they sighed "Glad your OK" They locked hooves and claws in a binding embrace. ... Rarity looked across at Spike with his big dopy smile. "Spikey?" She quizzed. She was looking for that unanswered question of the scent of strawberries. His eyes looked at her unchanged . "What?" He answered . Tilting his head and raising a single brow. She just gave him a little kiss and said lightly "I'm so glad my Spikey Wikey is back" She could smell his mark. "I'm happy to see you too Rars" He swooned and fell limp in her hooves. She sniffed and thought with a little giggle. 'He doesn't know, How sweet it is ! ' "We have got to get back and tell Twilight about the dragons " She sure had a tale to tell. They started back to the fields and she watched their shadows wrap around and glide beside them. Two forms moved as one. Swaying and prancing with a waddle put in for good measure. Spike thinking of her last words about the dragons asked " Do we have to tell her about the sack?" Rarity lightly put a hoof to his head spines and gave them a rub. "That will be our little secret Spikey Poo, Twilight doesn't need to hear everything" ... They stopped at the spot where their little dragon trek started. They took in the view of the river, The warm sun gave warmth from above and their hearts warmed them from within . Spike and Rarity looked at each other, In general at first. Scales of purple fur of white. Then up to each others muzzles and now the eyes of Deep blue, Emerald Green. He stuttered as she cleared her throat. Rarity looked in his eyes and she knew what was to come. "Rarity, " Spike paused as usual " I , I- you know I've had a crus..." "Wow! look at Those gems you two found !" Pinkie bounded into and around the hole "Hey , Lookie what I found , It's handy dandy like cotton candy!" The pink whirl wind produced a black sack and she loaded it to the hilt with the dug up booty. Spike could only think ' Wham ! To the moon Pinkie, To the moon ! What wasn't in the bag was quickly tossed into her mane. Spike could only look and face claw . Pinkie was after all , Pinkie. ... The three bounced, trotted and waddled back to the camp. Pinkie was all abuzz like a nightmare night filly on a major sugar high with ten cups of AJs mud black coffee. 'Bouncie bouncie Wheeeee Weeeeee' " So Pinkie , how was your day, My dear?" Rarity asked in a bit of small talk. Pinkie rolled her eyes and replied in a nonstop monolog - " Digging is Boring ,boaring ,Sleepy snoring ,boring !, Not like you two getting trapped by a secret clan of dragons and Spikey getting teased and called a stinky pony boy by a bunch of meanie no pants poopies, And how Rarity saw a cool , nicey nice little purple dragon who was telling you about how dragons are just bad nasty. But a few are sweet like your Spikey Wikey. And his love child was a super pretty Pongon ,Dracony, Aww whatever , And the guards name was Curly. You and Spikey make the cutest little couple . Your secrets safe with me and I won't never ever say anything about that nasty black bag you had on your head . But it sure was handy dandy. You two will have sweet dreams tonight and see Luna too ! And I saw a butterfly that looked like a giant chocolate cookie . Just like a giant flying moon pie ! Yep Just another boring day in Ponyville, Strawberries? yummy!" - End of monolog or is it? ... Spike looked at the Pink cyclone. Put his claws on his hips and rolled his eyes "Did you forget anything?" Pinkie with out losing a bounce "Well Duh, You don't want me to be a spoiler, Do you?" .' With a Boing and a zip , She was off in a streak of pink. AJ was prepping the cook fire and saw the two stragglers out in the field. " Come on ya two love birds" The Orange mare teased " Gota quit takin them long walks. Ya done burned through the day!" Twilight called out to the pair "We've got more spots to dig for tomorrow". Rarity happily called back "X marks the spot darling". Her heart swelled with the treasure she had. She thought to herself ' X marks the spot Spikey' "Wait till I have a chat with Twilight" ... Rainbow rolled to a dive and flared to a stop. Hovering she looked at the setting sun in a cloudless sky. Yellow faded to orange melted to violet and ended in a twinkling of stars in the velvet of Lunas mane. Everypony and dragon were around the camp fire winding down from the days events. Rarity and Twilight were talking about the discovery of Ambassador Kull and Coaline. The days load of sparkling gems were piled high ready for the morning wagons arrival. Dashie landed with the touch of a feather unloaded her saddle bags and strutted up to Twilight. "I dropped off the supplies and we have extra hooves coming in at first daylight, Looks like I'll be sleeping here tonight" Twilight looked up at Rainbow and glanced at Rarity "Would you mind if Dash shared a space with you?" The fashionesta looked up from the hoofacure she was receiving from Spike. "Of course she's welcome darling Twilight, I'll have Spike unpack the extra cushions and comforters " ... AJ dished out the left over grub "Here Rainy this will put some meat on yer bones" Rainbow dug in , She eyed the crowd around the fire, Pinkie was playing chess with gummy. AJ was field stripping the cook ware. Rarity and Twilight were gabbing and taking notes. Dashie was wondering how Spike had become such an expert at hoofacures. Not that she wanted one herself. But with his skills and soft touch the drake could give Aloe and Lotus a run for there money. "Yo Spike? plan on opening your own hoofacure shop? You sure could rake in the bits". Spike continued to work on the white mares hoof not even a glance up "You want one too?" Dashie recoiled "You know I don't go for all that fru fru stuff". AJ popped a shot at the Blue one " You should try one of his famous back rubs fly gal !" Rarity looked up with a glow and batted her lashes "He's such a handy gentle drake, You have my word" Pinkie gasped "Gummy's done it again! I don't believe it, Check mate in ten moves!" All eyes turned to the pink one. ... The bed rolls were rolled out by fire ring the flames slowly dying . Twilight, AJ and Spike started to snooze. Pinkie squiggled up in her wagon singing Gummy to sleep with an old Pie family lullaby. Dashie was snoring up a storm driving Rarity to the far side of her palace of outdoor fabulous De La Rue. The night was deadly clear and cold. A chilled wind snapped across the field. Putting a shimmering layer of frost on everything under the stars. 'Spiff ' the fire was now dead and snuffed out cold. Ice and cold covered everything. Grass, Dirt ,Bushes, Bed rolls, Wagons, Fur, Scales, Eye balls and Ears. .,. AJ awoke with her teeth chattering "Guys and Gals ,I think it's getting a little nippy out here" They had to get out of the deep freeze and into proper of not a more fashionable shelter. A call was heard above the wind. "Hay Rarity, The wind and cold are getting a might testy out here mind if we come in?" Rarity popped open the door, And she ushered the ponycicles in out of the weather. They all huddled together as hot tea was passed around. Rarity saw Spikes lethargic form in Twilights now sputtering magic. "Oh dear" The white mare said seeing the frozen bunch come in. A shivering Twilight laid Spike on Raritys cushion in a bid to keep him warm. She saw her friends a purple alicorn and dragon in shivering fits. Rarity cuddled them both. Their eyes frosted over. .,. Pinkie shook as she sat on the floor. AJ and Dashie helped her lay down "SNAP !" a piece of Pinkies mane snapped off , Streamers and confetti bursting out of the wound in her cotton candy mane. AJs eyes just glossed over "How is this possible?" Pinkie smiled and said "Easy just do this" Miss Bubble gum mare reached up and "SNAP" Pinkie snapped off a piece of the brim of AJs frozen solid as a rock hat. "Hay ! What in tarnation ! Pinkie what do you think you're doing? That was ma favorite hat!" The farmer rolled over in a fit. Her eyes going twicha twich as her nose scrunched up. The pink one bounded on the orange ice cube on the floor and held her in a warm embrace . The Fashionesta hotel was at full capacity . A Purple book worm and a marsh mellow drake sandwich. An orange rancher and a frozen pie on the far side topped with a snoring rainbow noisemaker. The sun broke the horizon over the cratered and frosted landscape it's lone palace soaking in the rays. The morning's warmth thawing out the previous night of reefer madness. .i. AJ was the first to stir that morning . She crawled over to Twilight and wondered at the sight below. Spike was cuddled tightly with Rarity her hooves and his claws intertwined like wild ivy, Her tail and his wrapped up like a maypole on hearths warming day. His head was tucked under her chin ."purrrr purrrr." With each breath he was purring softly like a giant cat. With a hushed voice AJ woke Twilight and the others. Spike and Rarity fidgeted and spoke in their sleep as one. Pinkie crossed her hooves "That's just creepy pasta cute without the spaghetti sauce." Spike watched the dream play out. He witnessed Raritys life as he knew it flashed before him. Date after date fumble and failed, Her dreams of Royal life dashed to pieces like a smashed slipper. Spike in anguish yelled at the ghosts of her past "How could you hurt her like that!" He hated the stallions who wanted only to bed her or use her like a stepping stone for their own fallacious desires. Spike watched the white mare crying in her pillows and concealing the pain in her fabulous creations. He saw countless nights when he and Rarity worked through the wee hours of the morning. And then another dream passed, The one he feared most of all. Rarity was dressed in her wedding gown and bouquets of flowers filled his eyes. Spike turned away and saw Luna watching with him. "Spike ,Why do you turn away on her wedding day?" Spike looked at her majestic form and pouted. "It's the greedy dragon in me, I want her to be happy, But I want her to be happy with me!" Luna watched the scene unfold and covered Spikes eyes. He balled his claws into fists and sighed "Tell me when it's over, I can't watch it." .*. Luna motioned to Spike as the dreams flowed to better times. Rarity was a little older her hair up in a tasteful bun. She was calling her children to breakfast " Ruby, Jade ,Garnett get your pancakes" Spike saw the happy vision of what could be a so called normal meal take a nasty twist. Rarity turned around as the little monsters destroyed the kitchen ,Hay browns ,Eggs , juice and pancakes sailed to the four winds sticking to any surface that was horizontal , vertical and inverted. The future Rariry yelled "Stop it right now! Don't let me get father after you!" Spike watched the comic horror continue till the future Rarity screamed. "SPIKE ! Come in here and stop your childrens insurrection, NOW !" A stunned Spike looked at Luna "Whoa, How is that future Spikes problem?" He shook his head." How did I dream that up?" Luna looked at him and asked "Your dream?" Rarity awoke with an uncouth "SNORKLE" and after a drowsy launch into the day she looked up to see all her friends smiling at her like she was the main attraction in a circus. She looked down and saw her purple precious scales asleep. Embarrassment flooded her thoughts. "Excuse me , I must be a dreadful sight, How did Spikey sleep? Is he all right?" She fumbled and paused. AJ and Twilight helped her untangle from Spikes embrace and Rarity gently stood up on her own power, AJ whispered " Real good from what we saw, The strangest thing, It's like you two had the same dream" Spike continued to slumber and mumble. AJ turned away winking at Rarity and nodding at the sleeping drake. "You and lover boy were talking like you was in one of your fancy romancing novels and everything" Twilight rebuffed the farmer mare "Apple Jack !" .?. Author's Note //////// WATCH OUT FOR HEAVY EQUIPMENT-----UNDER CONSTRUCTION \\\\
PinkdozerSpike walked with luna through an empty Ponyville. She put away her royal we for a more familiar tone. "When Equsetria was young wars between species were the norm. dragons, unicorns, ponies all fought . Even I went to battle against my own sister. Beasts of all kinds struggling for power just for the sake of power. When I returned from banishment my battle continued on." Spike sighed "We all saw how that went" "Indeed Spike, My eyes that were shielded by my vanity were opened. My sister still loved me. and the world I left had changed, Not for the better and not for the worse. Just different. Like I and you." Spike looked down fumbling with his claws "You saw the dreams, You think I've got a chance?" Luna yawned and gave a quick answer "We all have a chance, Will you be strong enough to chose?" ... Spikes dream decomposed to sounds, Sounds of wagons being loaded ,sounds of cookware shuffling around, fillies laughing , ponies talking ,even a "Eeyep" punctuated the air. Spike felt a soft warm blanket above and a soft warm cushion below. Another day had blossomed and he was still half asleep. Spike laid on his back stretched out his limbs and tail. First up to the air then out to his sides. As the blanket flung off in a heap to his left, Spike rolled right and stood up on all fours before he opening his eyes. He let out a final yawn and saw black ! Black as coal as in no light ! The drake panted and let out a scream. ... "I'm BLIND ! Twilight ! Rarity I can't see ! ,I can't see nothing Help ! Help ME!" Spike scampered to the voices beyond the confines of the mobile palace . His advances suddenly stopped as Twilights aura of magic cradled the fleeing drake. "Spike what's wrong !" Twilight cried out. Spikes answer was brief "COLD ! LUNA !DREAM ! RARITY ! BLIND !" Floating in her grasp had his claws, nose and tail pointing to all sections of the compass. His spade tail pointing due Twilight. " I can't see anything!" Spike said coldly . Twilight slowly turned Spike around and spoke to him slowly in a calming voice "Yes Spike, It was freezing last night, Rarity and I kept you warm, And You did have a strange dream with Luna, And What's this about Rarity making you blind?" _._ Spike heard a little giggle slip from Twilight with the last words. Flustered He asked "Now how would Rarity make Me go blind?" Twilight teased the sightless drake "Lots of ways Spike, Like..." Spike spat out "No ! Twilight! Don't even go... " She continued "Like taking Raritys sleep mask off!" Spike went limp with relief and removed the pink mask with red hearts and white fringes. "Whoa, Don't I look silly." He said a little sheepishly as he was deposited back to solid ground. Her magic placed the sleep mask to its spot and Twilight said with a soft laugh "You might be Raritys Spikey Wikey but you'll always be my baby dragon and a national treasure" Spike hugged the boss-sister-mom BBBFFs little sister and room mate. "Come on Spike AJs got lunch going" Twilight said with a grumble in her belly. _,_ They exited the portable palace looking forward to lunch. Out past the fire ring was a bench full of mouth watering munchies, pies, cakes, burgers ,beans. Main courses and side dishes , salads ,ciders and more. Along with the added hooves came the added stomachs. " Twilight ,Twilight Sparkle ! " Wailed Mayor Mare. Her thoughts of a quick Hay burger vanished as the Mayor informed the princess of the violations that were piling up with the excavation and unpermitted modification of the land scape. She studied the area. Raritys portable palace, bed rolls, wagons being loaded by Big Mac ,Pinkie , The Cutie mark crusaders and assorted back ground ponies. A big piece of real estate was pock marked and scared like a no ponies land from the First Equestrian War. The war to end all wars. Twilight looked at her number one assistant and said "Spike take a note" _j_ ___________________________________________________________________________________ "Dear Princeaa Celestia, Bla bla bla bla bla La Spike Bla bla bla bla Bits Bla bla bla Dragons Bla bla bla Dig dig Bla bla Me Bla la la la la Pinkie Bla bla Rarity Bla bla bla Everypony Bla bla trouble Bla bla AJ ,Pinkie Bla bla Bla Cold, Luna, Dream, Rarity BLIND Ha Ha Ha Bla bla bla Mayor Mare Bla Big Trouble Bla Real Hungry. The Princess of Friendship Always your Student Princess Twilight Sparkle _______________________________________________________________________________ _j_ Spike rolled the scroll and with the usual blast of green flame sent the note. Derpy just watched in awe as the letter was sent with postage due. The Mayor and Twilight debated the finer points of government, Spike sat himself down to a Hay burger and fries. The crusaders grouped around the bench chowing down after a hard morning of "CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS EXCAVATOR CONSTRUCTION SPECIALISTS" All mouths were full as Sweetie Belle asked a loaded question "Spike I see you always helping around the boutique and stuff why don't you ask my Sis out on a real date?" Spike and Scootaloo both gaged except Spikes was a real deep choking gag . Applebloom charged and gave the drake a good back thump sending the plug of half chewed hay burger into the air with a pop of green flame. It vanished in the cloud of smoke. He coughed and looked at Sweetie "What? - hack-What did you say Sweetie?" His eyes bugging out. Applebloom looked at the startled drake "Everypony in town knows you're like a love sick puppy following Rarity like she has a pork chop strung around her neck" Everypony at the bench nodded. Spike sighed and buried his snout in his claws , He thought 'Is it that noticeable?' _l_ The crusaders watched Spike for the answer to Sweeties question. Spike took a breath and looked at the prying eyes of the fillies, How can't you answer after seeing the little urchin faces. He again took a deep deep deeper breath . He slowly let it out bit by bit. "Sweetie? Have you ever seen Rarity come back after one of her so called dates?" Sweetie looked at her hooves and nodded silently. Spike saw and continued "It's not a pretty sight" Spike sniffed a little "One disaster after another, I can't see how she doesn't see through the jerks and douche-bagels" Two fillies giggled at the last words. Sweetie could see the hurt in Spikes eyes and she reached out and gave him a hug. "Try and ask her Spike" she whispered in his ear fluke, Spike sighed and whispered back to her"I don't want to be another of her has been failures" Spike excused himself and waddled away into the crowd feeling a bit alone and asking "Why me?" _I_ The mob had shifted from lunch right into high gear toting bags of gems and lifting bales of whatever. Flutters was huffing and puffing trying to fly a bale if trash from the work site. Dashie was coaching her on as she too was hauling a load, Other Pegasus joined in the work with a few mouthy pudd knockers. "Hay ,Rainbow trash Time to trade in your Rainboom for a Rain broom." Before the offending Pegasus had finished his untimely rant Dashie saddled him with a big load of his own. "Here ya go sport you're now twenty percent heaver" Dashie shagged him. The Brown Pegasus grunted "Thanks" Rainbow returned with her trade marked "Don't mention it" It looked as the fields were picked clean, Only empty craters dotted the landscape like Lunas old prison. Twilight, AJ and Rarity were now arguing with the Mayor as to where Ponyville stopped and Equestria unincorporated territory began. _qp_ As the work wrapped up for the day Spike noticed that the calculations Twilight had, did not take into account the added hooves of the good citizens of Ponyville taking an unscheduled job fest in Spikes honor. He waddled on and saw all the happy folks helping. Helping not because he was a hero of the crystal Empire, Or the number one assistant of a Princess. But helping a nice drake because he had been nice and helpful himself. They were giving not to be rewarded but helping as he did. Without expecting payment, no reservations. He continued along avoiding the multitude of holes seeing the whole affair wind down. Waddle walk waddle. He felt a swelling in the pit of his belly, Was it pride? Was it the Lunch he had? It continued to grow till... "BELCH" A letter from Princess Celestia ! He was feeling better even with what little lunch he had. _**_ "Twilight ! Twilight !" Spike yelled as he delivered the scroll from a higher authority. The Mayor ,Princess, and the rest waited for the reading. Spike cleared his throat "A hem A hem", He took a small breath. ________________________________________________________________________________ From the office of Princess Celestia Office of Accounting #1121 Canterlot Castle Route 1 A OBM # C1-001 EQUESTRIA GOVERNMENT BUSINESS CENTER Sun Drive Dear Princess Twilight Sparkle As you know Ponyville laws and Ordinances need to be followed and even a princess must set an example to her subjects, We in Government have to work hard to win the public trust. Please follow any requests the Mayor or any other public official might have so we can service everypony with equality and dignity. Please vote in the next election and buy municipal bonds. All Equestria correspondence is written on recycled paper. Please write wisely Sincerely your Princess Celestia cc: CB Hamster cc: RT Fink form 8130 rev a-1 _________________________________________________________________________________ ** Spike just looked at the scroll and muttered "That's totally messed up" Twilight just stood with a ' WHAT the HAY ' look frozen with disbelief. Everypony other than the Mayor mare thought Celestria had gone over the brink and entered Equestria Weight Watchers and Cakes Anonymous . The clean up continued, Raritys portable palace the bed rolls and gear was loaded on the wagon with care. Twilight still was talking to the Mayor in hopes of negotiating a settlement in the so called violations. The cutie mark crusaders ganged up on Spike and were pushing him along past Big Mac, past AJ, past Twilight and the rest. Rainbow and Fluttershy flew in for another garbage run, when they saw the drake being pushed along hoof by hoof, Step by step :The two hovered. Dashie could see what was going on with Spike Rarity and the CMC, She hoofed out and pulled Fluttershy close and spoke softly "Watch,This is going to be fun !" ** Rarity watched her little sister, Scootaloo and Applebloom push Spike towards her position. She could only laugh at the sight of the fillies over powering the Hero of the Crystal Empire. The defeated knight stood in front of the Lady. The fillies poking and prodding him. The gals said in a unlikely concord "Spike has something to say to you" Rarity looked into his emerald green eyes and spoke "Well what is it you need to say? Sweetie what is this all about young lady?" Sweetie nudged Spike a little more. Spikes vision collapsed and all he saw was her baby blues, He couldn't hear thundering roars beyond his beating heart, This was it. Luna had asked him if he was strong enough for it. For the longest time he had a nice speech planed for just the right time. "Rarity?" he asked like a drunken sailor on a binder. "Rarity?" The white mare asked "Yes Spikey?" "Raritywillyoubemymare?" He had messed it up big time ! He thought 'I'm so hosed ! -Noooooooooo !'. __ Raritys eyes twitched her nose scrunched up and her ears laid back on her mane, That look, That wild look. She was prancing around in circles, Looking like she did in Shining Armors wedding when she pounced on those poor flower foals diving for the tossed bridal bouquet. Sweetie Belle remembered that day with her big sister and yelled "She's going cray cray!" Twilight charged her horn ready to protect her number one assistant. Rainbow roared with laughter, Flutters hid behind a cloud, Pinkie spun around into her tail and vanished in a puff of pink dust. Spike trembled as his enraged marsh mellow approached him . She's taking it rather good so far. She looked into his soul and asked one long question. Here it comes "Can you even find it conceivable that you can furnish this ladys requirement as a consort?" Spike put a claw to his snout and humbly looked up at her, Thinking 'I'm dead already, Oh well. "I can only try my best Lady Rarity" Can it get any worse? The crusaders scrambled for cover as Rarity stomped her hooves and reared up .Spike closed his eyes accepting his doom, Everfree Forest Lawn here I come. Waiting the few microseconds felt like hours, Twilight watched Spike get picked up by his overjoyed white mare in a tight hug. "I thought you would never ask ,You silly Drake!" YES YES YES YES She happily exclaimed as tears fell through her painted eyes . 0.o She smothered the purple drake in kisses kicked up her hooves and pranced around floating him aloft in a blue aura of her horns magic. The sight was a circus of micro proportions AJ ,Big Mac and the crusaders climbed aboard the wagons and set off to town laughing at Spikes plight. Shy giggled and joined Dashies fun flight over the field. Twilight was in tears sitting on her plot holding back snickers. Spike took his claw and fist pumped up to the wild blue. As they passed his purple sister-boss-roommate the butterflies in his belly rumbled, and roared. "belch !" . Out popped a Scroll and it floated into Twilights hooves. ___________________________________________________________________ Dear Princess Twilight Sparkle Please Disregard the previous letter. ( Numbered 1121) I have looked into the mineral rights as out lined in the treaty of the Diamond dogs v Rarity Royal Court case EQ 23146 Dog vs Pony. The land in question has been subcontracted for strip mining by the PFRF corporation. Please inform Mayor mare all regulations will be followed as required by Equestrian laws. I am informed by Princess Luna about Spike and Raritys happy situation and wish them all the best. (Now when are you going to step up to the plate?) PS. Tell Spike to chew his food better before swallowing ,The janitorial staff would appreciate it. Don't be such a stranger and come out for a visit some time, Cakes and tea on the house. Princess Celestia (Tia) ______________________________________________________________________ '''' Twilight looked at Mayor mare and smugly remarked "Looks like it's out of your hooves now Mayor!" The Mayor looked at the scroll and rolled her eyes " R-H.I.P. Princess , Rank Has Its Privileges. See you at the next meeting at city hall" The bi-spectacled mare exited field left. Twilight looked at the scroll and asked herself out loud " I know about the diamond dogs- but what's this PFRF corporation ?" She looked at the late day sun and turned to see Spike and Rarity strolling back to Ponyville. " Wait up you two ! You both have a lot of explaining to do!" Twi galloped off after the couple. She followed the scent of strawberries and the sound of laughter. ... The sun glistened off the chrome and pink behemoth sitting off in the distance, It loomed larger than life made of iron and steel the dirt yielded under it's unloaded weight, It chugged to life belching flame and smoke puff, Chug puff chug PUFF CHUG CHUG. It ROARED to full power. Hideous forces driving pumps and pistons. It's studded treads moving over massive rollers. The links straining as giant drive sprockets turned. The beast clawed over the pock marked earth the shiny blade lowering and cutting fresh gashes into the ground. The operator yelled a mighty "Wooo Hoooo!" As she pushed and pulled the levers . It raged on with it's attack. Rainbow Dash flew down to confront the machine and it's destructive power. The driver saw her coming. "Hay ! Pinkie ,That's an awesome ride you've got ! Can I have a go at it?" Dashie beamed her bud a grin. Pinkie smiled wildly "Sure Dashie! My Pinkdozer's always open for business ! Wooo Hoooo !" Painted on the side was PIE FAMILY ROCK FARM CORPORATION. D - 10 Cat-A-Pie-r . End? Author's Note I just don't know what happened It looks so bold. //////////// DANGER EXPLOSIVES USE CAUTION BLAST AREA \\\\\
bonus camp firesThe Annual Foal Scouts Jamboree A week of outdoor fun and adventure comes to an end . Spike and the usual gang did what they could to keep all the colts and fillies safe and happy. Night had fallen and everypony was gathered around the campfire, The Mane six, The cutie mark crusaders and a whole troop of colt and filly Scouts. The fire flickered in the night sky as the smores and stories came to a close. The next game was truth or dare, Twilight asked the questions from her three by five index cards. The game continued counting down as the players were eliminated, Round after round till the last couple were standing. Spike & Rarity "Truth or Dare, Spike." Twilight called out. Spike asked quietly "Gosh. Twilight, How about a truth?" Twilight loudly asked "Spike, Who's your crus. . ." "FOREVER!" Screamed Pinkie, The whole crowd giggled and hooted as the couple shared a blush. Twilight spoke with authority "All right everypony , Shish! , Moving on." "Rarity?" Twilight asked "Truth or Dare?" Rarity smiled "We all know the truth darling, How about a dare to liven thing up?" The silence was only broken by the crackling fire and the challenge of Twilights dare. "Rarity, Kiss Spike right on the lips" Twilight started with a giggle. It grew from a single giggle to a roar of laughter that rippled through the bunch watching the roasting couple. In the center was a scaley purple ball and a blushing marsh mellow. She started with a little peck, Her face took on a devilish smirk.'Mine' Spikes eyes went wide'I want' Rarity and Spike leaned in, They wrapped their hooves and claws around each other in a serious lip lock. Hearts flooded the air and the two fell over. Twilight laughed out of control at the sight. Scootaloo sighed "Oh no ,mushy stuff." Sweetie beamed "I'm getting my cutie mark as Auntie Belle!" Apple Bloom said "Ah don't think so, Sweetie." Pinkie giggled "Forever." AJ watching the sight said "Now hold on there lover boy." The smooching continued. The flickering of the fire went from red to a green glow. Twilight and the others gasped together "Spike!" The fire grew "Rarity!" Some ponies turned away, Others ran and covered their eyes. AJ stared at them and screamed "LOOK OUT EVERYPONY, HE'S ABOUT TO BLOW" Everypony scattered in a panic, Hooves and plots heading for all points of the compass' Luna and Tia were sipping tea on a balcony over looking the kingdom when a blast rang out with a raising green mushroom cloud . Tia looked at Luna and asked "Dear Sister are we under attack?" Luna calmly took another sip of her tea and grinned "Wild oats, Sister, Wild oats." Rarity sat up in the crater , Wisps of smoke rolling from her muzzle and she simply asked "Oh Spikey? Precious Scales , Where did everypony go?" Author's Note
Epilog BonusWing Bonus Spike had finally asked Rarity out after all the months of plotting and planning they sat cozily in the dark at the Ponyville cinema II the only movie theatre with two screening rooms outside of Canterlot. Pop corn? check. drinks? check. Rarity? double check. Spike knew tonight was the night where he was going to turn on the charm and hug and smooch his lady in waiting and Rarity was waiting long enough she wanted romance she wanted snuggles and she wanted her Spikey to be her knight riding his mighty mare. But a lady surely rides sidesaddle and she laid out the rules. But of course the foal play was coming on the third date and she was ready and wanting to start with the first base of the game. Smooching. --------------------------------------------1st Base?------------------------------------------ The starting credits finished minutes ago and the movie started it was a "Shadow Spade Mystery" Rarity no doubt knew the plot from the novel and was now grumbling how any film artist would take liberties of her favorite character, Spike took her hoof in his claws and comforted her "Yea what does a Hoofywood director know anything about Shadow Spade" Rarity took notice and snuggled closer to the dragon who raised his arm over Raritys neck. She smiled at his slow carful reach, "Mmmmmmmmmm" "haaa ha ha haaa ha ha" A fillys laughter cut through the dark causing Spike to look around and retract his advances, His shyness coming back to the surface. The movie continued on...Rarity and Spikey waited as the flicker show had the hero embracing the refined Lady Diamond their moans on screen mirrored the couples musings. Rarity reached around Spikey and drew him into a fine under the chin snuggle and the dragon put his claws lightly on her one free hoof and the other behind her head, Raritys locks were running through his hands. She was in pure delight as Spikey massaged her mane stroking and combing until he found a little puff then another and a few more puffs of pop corn. Spike was confused at first when he felt a soft hit of a hot buttered delight. Rarity looked for the reason of Spikes pause of her pampering when the giggles of some local filly trouble makers filled their ears. "Sweetie Belle what are you doing... Doing? Spike?" He showed her the now pile of pop corn in his claws and the speckles of pop corn decorating Raritys mane. The Cutie Marked Crusaders howled with laughter as the lady excused herself to the mares powder room. Spike watched his date storm off and crossed his arms eyeballing the three little hooligans "Come on you guys a little help here? I know it's funny as all get out but It's our first time here, can you cut us a little slack?" "Mom wants her to have a good time . . . But not "that" good you know what I mean". Sweeties tone was adult serious with a capital "A" even if she was giddy about the possibility of becoming an aunt. Apple Bloom and Scootaloo were murmuring a bit until they spoke up "What's in it for us?" Spike rolled his eyes as he reached into his bag of bits. Rarity returned to her place a victorious Spike the Great and Honorable Brave and Glorious was waiting with fresh refreshments. The CMC 'Date Crashers!' now nowhere to be seen. If anything he was a handy little bundle of scales. --------------------------------------------------------------2nd base-------------------------------------------------- Shadow Spade was again in danger as our intrepid couple ignored the plotline and made their own story. Spike and Rarity were caught up in the heat of the moment as they necked and kissed with cautious abandon. Snuggly goodness and passion was on Raritys menu and Spike was eager to please. "Smack - Snort - Giggle - Snogger" The noise echoed through the theatre stopping every pony in their tracks. A situation causing the ushers to beam their flash lights on the offending R rated couple. All eyes were focused on the two offending lovers including Spike and Rarity who knew the soon to be shagging couple. "Pinkie!?" Rarity blurted out as Spike uttered "Shining Armor? What about your wife and Flurry Heart!" Pinkie opened one eye then her other eye and looked at her audience as if nothing was going on as Shining Armor dissolved in a green flame into a blushing changeling "I'd get a hotel room but the theatre's cheaper" the skittle bug joked as Pinkie fixed her mane, "Hi Rarity how's it doing? This is Doomie met him in Canterlot...Are you going to finish that?" Rarity in a fit of exasperation gave Pinkie her refreshments and taking her dragon in tow made way to the exits as Pinkie smiled "I bet they have enough bits for a great room". Shadow Spades words echoed as Doomie watched the two leave "So you think you've seen the last of me you've got another thing coming!" -----------------------------------------------------3rd base------------------------------------------------------------- As the two exited the theatre it was obvious that the evenings pranks were in the air as with tons of rain. Rarity stood under the entrances awning as Spike grabbed a lid off a local garbage can and used it as an improvised cover from the falling wet. But all that stopped as she glared down at him, then motioned with her eyes under no uncertain terms was that filthy lid going nowhere near her. He tossed it back and with her eyes now approving of his thoughts behind his action she coxed "Come Precious Scales it's only a little rain". They ventured out only to hop back quickly as they heard a carriage speeding along the street. What they got was brown lots and lots of brown sticky mud. One blue eyed mud figure and another squatty mud figure stood in the pouring rain. All they could do was watch the pelting drops wash away of all the goo. As it did little by little they walked along quietly picking out odd debris by magic or claw, Raritys mane and tail hung limp her makeup washed off and Spikes spines wilted. All was bare to the world as they looked at the castle far across town and with a shrug they both started the wet voyage "What would Shadow Spade do?" "Trot with style my silly dragon". After a short time the two arrived at Twilights Castle where Spike noticed that the rain was quite selective of what did or didn't get wet. "Ah Rarity is it just me or are we the only things getting wet around here?" Rarity eyed the now obvious dark puffy rain cloud hovering above them "Rainbow Dash we've seen through your little subterfuge, You can come out now!" A snicker floated on the wind as the cloud piloted away "Have fun, But not too much fun. Hope you two love birds don't mind me raining on your parade. Good cider doesn't pay for itself" From Dashies snickering smile there was no doubt Scootaloo paid a few bits for her watery services. -------------------------------------------------home------------------------------------------------ Spike and Rarity stood watching the little black rain cloud with the colorful prismatic tail skitter off and now that the movie date was cut short Spike thought of what his date needed at the moment. Dried off warmed up and pampered. "My lady may I invite you in for a warm toweling and a hot chocolate with those tasty little marsh mellows bits?" "Spikey dear, Precious Scales are you trying to bribe me with hot chocolate with itty bitty marsh mellows?" "It was worth a shot don't you think?" Rarity took Spike in her hooves and when they were eye to eye "and the warm towel?" "I spent all day cleaning the castle floors and it sort of sucks having to do a job twice". "Some jobs are worth doing over and over and over". "Yea, over and over". Rarity began to nuzzle and lightly peck Spikes snout and lips his eyes closed as his claws lightly rubbed her cheeks soon she also closed her eyes and her hooves became limp. Rarity was floating in the moment when a buzzing caught her ears and was it her imagination or was Spike getting taller? Rarity peeked with one eye, Her dragon was hovering his wings a blur and he had a look that said it all Rarity my dear you've got him good. Then again he's always been my Spikey Wikey. Spike opened his eyes his lips parting from hers and becoming his signature dopy grin. His wings buzzed and they closed in for another smooch when the castle door opened surprising them both Spike would of face planted if not for Twilights quick actions of horn and spell. "Don't just sit there wet and freezing you two get yer cabooses in here" AJ called out her knowing smile welcomed them in. Twilight carried them both from the steps to the waiting foyer of the castles keep. --------------------------------------------foul play---------------------------------------- Spike dozed off after his multiple doses of hot chocolate kicked in. His pampering of the lady Rarity was a feat all in itself, well done with claws and help from Twilights magic. Rarity and the gals had a nice off the record meeting about Fluttershy and Apple Jacks adventure with the Kirin Village. Spike dozed off mid way through and was snuggled along Raritys side. "So I take it your movie date didn't go so well?" AJ quizzed her. "It went quite well with the exception of some saboteurs, But my Spikey Wikey handled the Cutie Mark Hooligans very well as for my sister I'm sure we'll have a little talk later". Twilight looked at Fluttershy and coxed her to join in the round table giving her a knowing grin. I seduced Discord "What did you say dear?" I seduced Discord! Apple Jack was the only one surprised as Fluttershy spilled past her self imposed prison. I have a crush on Discord! Oh! I'm sorry I didn't want to wake up Spike there! Spikes answer was "ZZZZZZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzz mumble mumble Rarity ZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzZZZ". "Twilight dear we all know about Miss Shys little romantic nuance. All except our hard working farmmare, No offense". "None taken". Twilight looked a little miffed as to her botched surprise. Only Apple Jack didn't know? "Don't look so put out Twilight. we talk all the time at the spa, You should get out more often". "I do get out!" Twilight squeaked "Really I do". It was getting late in the castle friendship as Twilight the others had ventured to their homes and Rarity became the vanguard of dragon snuggles. Twilight and Rarity conspired to be at Spikes side in the morning even if the question was rather awkward "Twilight would you mind if I slept with Spikey tonight?" Her pause was short "I mean not in a ... Oh that didn't come out right at all" Rarity was on the spot. Twilight jumped at the chance "Wow I always wanted to observe and take notes on..." "I just wanted to see his precious expression on his face when he sees me snuggled with him when he wakes up". "Nothing more?" Twilight teased "Like maybe just a little bit?" "I didn't take you for the voyeuristic type" "Only for the science!" "How about we just sleep here in the couch tonight dear and finish your plans of your little debauchery in the morning". Twilight rolled by her two best friends as Rarity hugged her drake, The lady felt the warmth of the dragon as her Alicorn besty covered them with her wings. Twilight mused "So was this how Celestia felt when Spike and I stayed up too late all those years ago?" ----------------------------------------------Wakey wakey ------------------------------------------ The morning came all too soon for the three as the castle doors banged open and a conversation started to intrude on the still sleeping dream voyagers. "Father I hope we're not late it's nearly noon". "My daughter dear I'm sure out invitation had us scheduled for the day and we've wasted nearly half of it at that corner café eating most their bake goods even the new Dragon Lord gave us a budget to adhere to". "Oh there's Rarity" A sniff was followed by "So that's her Spike! Father your description was exactly as you said". "I'll assume the Princess of Friendship is the one on top, I'll have to assume that's the dominate position". Rarity opened her eyes to see two familiar faces from the resent past and let out the most ladylike yawn in Ponyvilles history. Coaline sat contented by her fathers side and raised a clawed hoof wiggling her digits. "Toodles, Good afternoon Rarity is that Spikes mom, Did you and you Spike finally get to making little ones? Where's the little dragons room I'm so excited I got to go pee". The half breed trotted away after Rarity pointed her the way to the little fillys powder room. Rarity now had one job to do. Just one job. Twilight the zombie nerd felt a nudge "Spike can you answer the door?" she mumbled. Then another nudge answered likewise and then a slug to the withers as she hard booted into the land of the living. "Oh! who? What time is it? What day is it?" Twilight crashed to the floor in a heap her bed head taking revenge as fur and feathers shook out of sync. "How grand it is to see the care taker of the once Dragon Lord Spike and his Dame Dragon Rarity". "Kull the Ambassador pleased to see you again, Kull meet Princess Twilight Sparkle, Twilight, This is Kull". "Oh wow nice to put a face to all those letters we've exchanged, Wow I'm such a mess excuse me for a moment" A bright purple flash and a pop of ozone the Princess was gone. "Your Princess of Friendship, I like her already, and I see Dragon Lord Spike is well as is you my Dame Dragon Rarity". Kull bowed to the two with flourished claw movements. Rarity was confused at all the bowing and formal addresses even when it was expected from another to a proper lady of style. But this screamed too much like a botched puppet theatre. "Kull dear no need to bow here were all friends" "Dragon protocol demands it for the mate of a Dragon Lord". "Isn't Ember the Dragon Lord and Spike and I have been only on our first date as of late". "As you must know" Kull sat on his tail for this was going to take a little time to explain "After correspondence with your Princess I've come into some interesting facts about your courtship as it pertains to dragon laws and customs Dame Dragon Rarity, Spike and yourself exchanged gifts and after his birthday he forcibly took you to a mountain cave where he confessed his attraction to you...." Rarity interrupted with a chuckle "But really" Kull smiled "And now look at you two, Even his hatch mother approves, Even after Spike abdicated the throne to the Dragon Lord Ember just to be at your side, you two move like a pair of cave sloths...No offense". "None taken dear". --------------------------------------->O.O<-------------------------------- Spike heard a delightful conversation as he awoke, Rarity? Kull? and an older Scootaloo? His eyes opened to see Coalines big ol orange eyeballs framed in emerald green scales and glossy black fur with cute little pony ears looking back with a fang filled toothy grin No not creepy at all! Maybe? , Spike rubbed his eyes and focused on the half breed "Ok what Twilight do now?" His eyes became clear as he saw Kull beside the dracony a big smile on his snout too "Let me introduce ourselves, I am Ambassador Kull retired and my daughter Coaline I'm her to meet with the Princess of Friendship". Spike looked a Rarity and then Coaline "So this isn't Twilights work?" Rarity bowed down to Spikes ear fluke and whispered "This is Kulls child from an earth pony more like pleasure then work wouldn't you say?" Spikes response was a not so ground shattering "Cool" as the idea then seeped into his brain... Seriously COOL! Twilight came prancing down the crystal stairs all covered in her Royal trappings, A Twili-cane, golden shoes, that goofy crown and her lengthy Rarity custom designed Princess dress 🇹🇲. She hit the landing nearly stumbling and face planting in front of her gusts. Kull and Twilight bowed to each other and started to stroll out the castle with Spike and Rarity following until a magical wall stopped them. "Coaline's here to bird sit Owlowicious in the Library and we're going out tonight and don't expect us back until late tomorrow and this is for you two newlyweds" A flash of purple flames resulted in a parchment in front of Spike and Rarity when it unrolled the flustered pairs jaws came unhinged as their eyes bugged out. "Spikes new word for the week reciprocity that's your certificate of dragon marriage it's as good as the one you'd get from the Mayor" Twilight giggled "Get busy Romeo". Kull laughed as he escorted Twilight away "I've always liked the nerdy types well played Princess, Well played, Take care Coaline foods in the galley ask the owl where". Rarity bristled and yelled "I shall not be bred like one of Apple Jacks farm animals Twilight you will rue the day!" The fashion mare looked at her Spikey Wikey "It's not the same without the romance". They watched the Princess with her date exit the castle and lock the door while Coaline went for her reading area Spike looked at Rarity with lustful eyes and asked his Dame Dragon lady "Are you thinking what I'm thinking?" "Yes Spikey shall we?" The two darted off with a devious plan... To devour all the goodies and Ice cream their bellies could hold. After all romance can take a lot out of a couple.
