Wings Of Icarus

Chapters

Episode I: Flight
Episode II: Getting Paid
Episode III Part I: Follow The Rules
Episode III Part II: Game Over
Episode IV: Sphere
Episode V: Bonding (NSFW)
Chapter VI: Rare Specimen

Episode I: Flight

“Listen, if you want to put a bounty on someone you HAVE to fill out the required forms.” The mare at the counter said calmly.

“I don’t HAVE that kind of time.” I grumbled. “This is too important to be wasting time filling out forms on!”

“Listen ma’am, you came to us. The bounty hunting business might be slow, but it’s effective. If you don’t have the time then go catch whoever you’re putting a bounty on yourself.” She said dismissively.

I stared silently at the mare for a few moments, “I will then. It’d be a lot faster then you lot are.” I stated as I turned around and walked away from the counter, my anger at their stupidity almost boiling. How the hell could they not see this was important!?! There are a lot of lives at risk if he’s not caught right away!

“Hey.” A rather masculine voice said. I blinked a few times and turned to the source, seeing a large stallion, muscles practically bursting from his chest and abdomen, complimenting his white skin and blonde mohawk. The thing I also noticed were the piercings he had on his ear, nose, lip… Oh god. “I heard you’re lookin for someone.”

“Yeah… I am.” I nodded slowly.

“Call me Bulk. Nice to meet you marshmallow.” Bulk chuckled, holding his hand out.

“It’s nice to meet you too.” I said a little hesitantly as I reluctantly grabbed his hand. “My name is Sweetie Belle.”

“So you’re going to look for this guy all by yourself? It’s a dangerous galaxy. Do you know how to shoot a gun? Or even use that thing?” Bulk questioned, flicking my horn.

Oh boy this guy’s going to be a real treat. “I can handle myself better then you think.” I stated as I slapped his hand away.

“Oh really? Tell me, do you have a ship?” He inquired, crossing his arms.

“No.” I said.

“Then you don’t have a choice do you? Unless you have the money to get one.” He said, grabbing my shoulder and turning me to face the window. He pointed to a moderately decent sized ship, more of a cargo ship than anything.

I grumbled quietly, “And that thing can survive out in the ‘dangerous galaxy’?” I questioned.

“Don’t judge a book by its’ cover. Now c’mon, your chariot awaits!” He laughed, patting me on the back and chugging a drink I previously hadn’t noticed before heading out the door. My lip curled up slightly as I followed him out. I saw him hauling two heavy looking boxes onto the ship, giving me a wink as he disappeared up the ramp. My eye twitched slightly before I followed him up. Dear god why do I have to be stuck with this guy? “Don’t worry about the boxes, they’re not that heavy. Make yourself at home.” He called back to me as the ramp slowly closed and sealed. The aroma of sweat immediately hit me along with whatever was in the boxes (which wasn’t much better).

I barely managed to stop myself from gagging as I covered my nose. The rumbling of the engines rattled through the ship and I could see the ground outside the windows move away slowly. The ship was simple, large room for storing cargo, followed by a bathroom and bedroom. The cockpit was in front, where Bulk was sitting, busy at work getting us further into the air. “So who’s this guy you’re after?” He called back to me.

“It’s two guys. They stole a lot of money from me and there’s no telling what they plan to do with it all.” I said.

“So… why are you after them?” Bulk questioned.

“They stole from me. Isn’t that enough of a reason to go after them?” I snapped.

“Yeah no, I get that. But if they were some thieves you would have just put a bounty on them and went on with your life. So tell me… What are YOU after?” He repeated.

“I don’t know.” I said.

“It sounds like revenge to me.” He said.

I grumbled quietly, “Fine. I’ve gotten sick of everything they’ve constantly done to me and I want to make sure they NEVER do it again.” I stated.

“So you’re going to kill them?” Bulk asked, pressing a few buttons and making the engine start to hum louder.

“If it comes to that, then yes.” I said.

“And I’m sure you’ll be the one to pull the trigger.” Bulk sighed. I glanced out the windows and saw the blackness of space slowly turning a bright white.

“Maybe… Maybe they won’t have to die and I can get them to just stop.” I said quietly. Bulk stood up and looked at me.

“Well so long as I’m here, I’ll make sure you stay safe.” He said, changing the subject with a smile.

“Thanks.” I said with a small smile.

“So where are we going?” He asked.

I paused for a few moments as I contemplated the question. “I don’t know.” I said calmly. Bulk raised and eyebrow and stared almost questioningly at me.

“So let me get this straight. You went with some stranger on a ship with no weapons, or even a battleplan, to find TWO people that could be anywhere in the galaxy with MONEY they stole from you, and a bad mutual history between you and them.” Bulk finished.

“Yes.” I nodded. There was a long pause between the two before Bulk spoke up.

“Great!” He laughed, playfully slugging me in the shoulder. “Can’t wait to get started.”

I rubbed my shoulder a little bit, “Yeah. Neither can I.” I mumbled.

“So any ideas or are we just going to aimlessly wander.” Bulk asked as he stared out at the whitespace they were traveling through.

“I don’t have very many clues as to where they’d be going. So I guess we’re wandering.” I shrugged.

“Well congratulations kid, you’re a bounty hunter now. And I guess this isn’t a cargo ship anymore.” Bulk chuckled, taking a seat on one of the crates behind him.

“I guess now is as good a time as any. What sort of defences does this thing have?” I asked.

“Well, the metal is special. Protects against certain spells, makes it more likely to survive an attack from a unicorn.” He started.

“And against weapons?” I pressed.

“Well that’s why I have engines silly.” Bulk laughed.

“All ships have engines.” I said.

“But a lot of ships don’t use them properly.” Bulk said. “If you know how to use them, they’re the best defenses you could ever have.”

“Okay. What weapons do WE have?” I asked.

“Don’t you worry about weapons.” He reassured, standing up and heading to his room.

“I have full right to worry about weapons!” I shouted.

“You have full right to sit down and relax.” He shouted back as he closed the door and left me alone in the cargo area.

I sat down against a wall with a huff. “Fine. Be that way.” I grumbled. My stomach groaned as the realization that I hadn’t eaten anything today hit me. “Hey! You got any food?” I called.

“Check the crates, there should be some dried stuff in one of them.” He replied from his room. I stood up and approached one of the crates, grabbing the top and heaving it off with a groan. What was inside certainly caught me off guard. It was entirely full of stuffed animals. I started to giggle a little.

“That’s so cute.” I said a little louder then I intended too. I glanced back at the door to make sure he hadn’t come out.

“What’s cute?” He called.

“Nothing!” I called back. I giggled quietly again and put the lid back on the crate so I could go check another one. I walked over to a second and found a mix of dried fruits, canned food, and something metal sticking out in the center. I reached down and grabbed it, pulling it out to see it was a gun, looking like some sort of pistol. And it was loaded with a full clip… I dropped the gun back in. “What the hell?” I questioned.

“Say again?” Bulk called.

“N… Nothing!” I managed to stammer out.

“Oh yeah I think the food is in the crate with the red paint on it.” He shouted. I glanced down slowly at the crate I had just opened and saw a streak of red along a part of it. It certainly didn’t look like paint…

“Yeah… I f… found it.” I squeaked out.

“What’s wrong? You sound like an autotuner went haywire.” He asked.

“Um… Nothing’s wrong!” I said back quickly as I managed to sound calm again. I picked the gun up out of the crate and made sure I wouldn’t shoot myself with it as I hid it in my pants. There was a long moment of silence.

“So.” Bulk said, coming out of his room in a new outfit to match his white skin, wearing a clean T-shirt and jeans. I saw his eyes look at the red stain on the crate before turning back to me. “You find anything good in it? I hadn’t checked.”

“Just food.” I said quickly.

“You don’t say?” He said, slowly approaching the crate. He glanced inside and smiled, pulling out a box of chocolates in a heart shape. “Better see if these are poisoned.” He chuckled.

“You go do that.” I nodded. Bulk turned and walked back to his room, stopping in the doorway and doing an immediate 180. “What’s wrong?” I asked quickly.

“I’m going to take a nap, tell me when we get out of whitespace.” Bulk said before closing the door.

“Will do.” I nodded as I took in a few quick deep breaths. I quickly walked into the cockpit. Who the hell is this guy? Just what the hell is he planning and why is there blood on a crate in a cargo ship? Nothing’s make sense about him! Though… I’m armed now… Even though I don’t… No I’ll cross that bridge when I come to it. Until then I’m just going to bide my time and try to get more answers. I don’t have much else choice. A few minutes later the engines started to slow, the blackness of space starting to return, and with it a new sound. There was the small crackle of static coming from the cockpit. I walked into the room and sat down in the pilot’s seat. I looked down at the source of the static and realized it was coming from the radio. A surge of hope filled me as I discovered that I could possibly call for help with it. I reached down and was about to grab it when a voice rang from it.

“Bulk, you there?” The voice said. It was a lot more soothing that Bulk’s, a lackluster tone that was more bored than anything.

I hesitated for a moment and thought about going to get Bulk. I shook that thought from my head and decided to just listen. “Are you asleep again? For a bodybuilder you spend a lot of time in dreamland. You really need to teach me your secrets.” The voice joked.

I chuckled quietly. “Anyway… I can see you got the ship. Don’t open the crates, and for god sakes leave the food alone this time.” The voice said in a slightly annoyed tone. “Who am I kidding, it’s probably all gone by now. That food is money ya know.”

I blinked slowly. This isn’t his ship, and he’s not a freight hauler. What the fuck did I get myself into? I heard footsteps behind me, slowly approaching the cockpit. I turned around to face the door. My heart skipped a beat as I hid myself inside a large pile of… clothes. They certainly didn’t smell clean. I held my breath as best I could so I wouldn’t get found. The door slid open and Bulk walked in, plopping down in the seat and grabbing the radio. “Spike you there?” Bulk said into it.

“Oh you’re awake. I was starting to think you suffocated in your own neck muscles.” Spike joked.

“Funny. I got the ship and the stolen cargo. I also got a hitchhiker too.” Bulk said, leaning back into the crappy leather seat.

“Did you bang her yet?” Spike asked.

“Also funny.” Bulk rolled his eyes.

“But not entirely out of the question with you.” Spike said.

“Just pick me up already, the guy who took this cargo is an absolute slob. Who even leaves pizza out like that? It’s got flies.” Bulk sighed.

“Yeah… Just let me clean my room.” Spike teased.

“I swear if you touch my stuff I’m going to get a lock.” Bulk groaned.

“And clean for fingerprints.” Spike continued.

“Just hurry the hell up!” Bulk shouted, clicking the radio off. “You know if you want to hide you really shouldn’t choose to be the best smelling thing in a pile of week old underwear.”

“Oh god!” I nearly shouted as I threw myself from the pile of clothing. Bulk just started to laugh, and turned to face me. I backed away from him.

“Were you planning on stealing my ship?” Bulk raised an eyebrow.

“It isn’t YOUR ship.” I stated.

“Finders keepers?” Bulk suggested. My eyes narrowed as I stared at Bulk. “It was already stolen, I’m repossessing it.” He said in a more serious tone.

“Sure you are.” I said slowly.

“You wanted a ride, you got one. There’s plenty of room in the airlock if you don’t like it.” Bulk said sternly.

I scowled slightly but didn’t move. “Or maybe I shoulda left you back at registration for you to get kidnapped.” He said.

“What… huh?” I mumbled, a sudden dread filling my stomach.

“I saw some stallions eyeing you. And take it from a pony who knows people, they didn’t look friendly.” He said. I could tell there was sincerity in his voice and he meant what he said. Either that, or he was a great liar.

I was silent for a few seconds, “Thank you then.” I said.

“Now I assume you heard everything we just said, so Spike should be on his way to pick us up.” Bulk said, patting the co-pilot’s chair next to him.

I continued to watch him as I sat down in the co-pilot’s chair. “So anything interesting in the crates?” Bulk asked.

“Stuffed animals.” I said.

“That’s it?” He raised an eyebrow.

“Yeah. An entire crate of them.” I nodded.

“That is strange.” A familiar voice said, my heart practically stopping as I snapped around. There was a decently tall purple dragon in front of me, his hands in his black slacks pocket and a trough of green hair down the center of his head. I saw the green spikes down his back and around his waist.

“Hey Spike.” Bulk chuckled, shaking his head.

“Yeah… Hi.” I said uncertainly.

“So who’s the cream puff?” Spike asked, glancing to Bulk.

“The mare I was talking about.” Bulk said.

“I’m not a cream puff.” I stated as I glared at Spike.

“So we bringing her along?” Spike asked.

“Up to her.” Bulk shrugged, the two turning and staring at me.

“I’m not going back if I’m just going to get kidnapped.” I stated.

“Then it’s settled.” Bulk said, taking a deep breath in and walking to the door but immediately being stopped by Spike.

“For how long?” Spike questioned.

“Until we get the two she’s after.” Bulk said.

“You… what did you do?” Spike said, the disdainful tone really expressing the annoyance in his voice.

“The right thing. Try it sometime.” Bulk laughed, shoving Spike before heading out. Spike just watched him walk away for a moment before sighing. He turned to me and stared at me.

“Don’t get any funny ideas, just sit down and don’t touch anything when you get on board.” Spike said, walking out of the cockpit and onto the airlock (which was now acting as a bridge between ships.) I sighed and followed him onto his ship.

I glanced around at the ship, “Mm.” I mumbled quietly. This one was a bit tidier and didn’t reek of trash. It was almost three times the size of the cargo vessel, and this one looked a little more armored, but still no visible weapons. “Still no weapons how do you survive out here?” I questioned.

“Just because it doesn’t look intimidating doesn’t mean it doesn’t have bite.” Bulk stated.

“We’ll see.” I said.

“Welcome to Icarus.” Spike said. He couldn’t have less enthusiasm in his voice.

“Nice name.” I said with equal enthusiasm.

“Just don’t get too comfortable kid.” Spike said, disappearing down one of the halls.

“Don’t worry about him, he just doesn’t like passengers.” Bulk reassured, patting me on my back and climbing the ladder to an upper portion of the ship.

“I’m sure that’s it.” I sighed. My ear twitched as the sound of something grinding against metal echoed lightly down the hall to my right. I followed the noise to a medium sized room full of mechanical things. It looked like an engine room if I had to guess. I glanced to where the noise was and saw a pair of brown feathered legs sticking out from under a big… engine machine… thingy. Yeah, that’s it. The sound of a wrench turning something became more obvious as I stared down at him. “Hello?” I asked. The sound stopped immediately. “Ookay.” The legs moved closer to me as the person scooted out, lying on a small wheeled thing to help him with it. I saw he was an owl? And he was quite bewildered by my presence. ‘I’m new here.” I stated. He blinked a few times and continued to stare at me. “I’m Sweetie Belle it’s nice to meet you…”

The owl stared at me for a moment before rolling back under the engine.

“Why are you ignoring me?” I questioned, a slight anger entering my voice. The sound of the wrench started again, causing my eye to twitch. My magic gripped his legs and started to pull him out. He stopped suddenly as something held him still. I yanked him harder and he slid out, the wheeled cart he was on rolled him across the room until his feet hit the wall, kicking off it and sliding him right back under. I groaned loudly and grabbed his legs, pulling as much as I can. I saw he was slowly losing his grip and being slightly dislodged from his position. With one last tug he was pulled out from under it, but a loud snapping along with it. The two of us froze, staring silently at each other. He had something in his hand that wasn’t there before. Moments later the engine started to make a groaning sound. The owl stood up and stared wide eyed at it, his hands clamping onto his head in panic. “Oh shit…” I mumbled quietly.

The ship made a low groan before all noise in the engine room stopped. The owl turned to me and held his hands out as if he was about to strangle me before letting his arms go limp.

“Umm… Sorry.” I said. “I um…” There were loud footsteps as Spike appeared in the doorway.

“Why did the ship stop?” Spike asked quickly. The owl pointed directly to me. “What did you do?”

“I just pulled him out! He was ignoring me!” I said defensively.

“He doesn’t talk!” Spike stated.

“I didn’t know that!” I retorted.

“So you break the engines?” Spike stared wide eyed at me.

“It was an accident!” I said.

“You think you can fix it?” Spike asked, turning to the owl. He stared back at Spike before looking at the pipe like object in his hand and nodded. “Get to it. You, come with me.” Spike growled, grabbing my arm and practically dragging me out of the room.

I pulled my arm out of his grip and followed him, “I wasn’t aiming to break your ship.” I said in a more apologetic tone. Spike stopped and spun around to face me.

“You don’t seem to understand. Breaking the engine wouldn’t have been a problem any other time, but we just ‘repossessed’ a ship and large amount of stolen cargo. How do you think the person who took it is going to react?” Spike started, giving me a more serious look.

I looked away, “We’re going to be killed.” I said.

“Probably. But I’m going to do the best I can to make sure that doesn’t happen.” Spike said reassuringly, turning and heading down the hall to the bridge.

I followed behind him for a few moments. As I was walking the ship shook violently, knocking me to the ground. “Great… Thought we had more time.” Spike sighed, rushing to the bridge. I shakily pushed myself up and ran after him. Spike sat down in the pilot’s seat and pressed one of the many buttons. Immediately, one of the screens clicked on and… Snips and Snails appeared on it, smirking at the screen.

“You got somethin of ours.” Snips said.

“No idea what you’re talking about. I’m just returning stolen cargo… Are you admitting to theft?” Spike chuckled, leaning back in his seat.

“Just release the ship and we’ll let you go.” Snails said loudly.

“Promise?” Spike asked in a more curious tone.

“Promise.” Snips an snails said after a short pause, their smug grins returning in full.

“Well alright.” Spike smiled, clicking the screen off.

“Those smug… shit eating… cock goblin sons of bitches!” I nearly shouted as my anger boiled over. Spike turned to me, the shock obvious on his face from my language.

“You… know them?” Spike asked.

“Yes I know those two lying sacks of dog shit.” I growled.

“Annnd… how do you know them?” Spike asked, still slightly wary by the sudden change of tone.

“They stole a LOT of money from me.” I stated. “And now I plan on getting every single cent back.”

“Small galaxy.” Spike chuckled.

“We’re going to die if you let go of that ship.” I stated.

“Well since someone broke the engines, probably.” Spike nodded, seeming extremely calm for what is happening.

“Why are you so calm about this?” I questioned. Spike stared out the at the moderately sized ship that Snips and Snails were in, their guns primed and ready. Spike reached down and clicked on the radio.

“Bulk, you done yet?” Spike said.

“Yep, we a go?” Bulk called through the radio.

“What are you planning?” I asked a little warily.

“Giving the ship back.” Spike smiled. “Brace yourselves.” He grabbed the flight stick and pulled back, the sudden shifting nearly made me fall to the floor. Icarus started spinning in circles faster and faster.

“Oh god I’m going to get sick…” I muttered. Spike just stared out the window in front, watching as Snip’s ship came into view, then off, then on, then off. “You’d better no-” I stopped as I started to gag. Spike’s smile grew as he flipped a switch. The cargo ship immediately detached and was flung towards Snip’s ship. Spike grabbed the controls again and brought the spinning to an immediate stop. Snip’s ship immediately started to turn to avoid it when I noticed something different about the cargo ship, something was attached to it. I glanced back to Spike and saw a button in his hand. He teased his thumb over the button slowly. Before I could say anything, he pressed it. The cargo ship immediately was engulfed in flames, bits and pieces flying in each direction as it exploded. Snip’s ship was violently thrown in the other direction, sparks and flames leaving their ship as it powered down. “YOU COULD HAVE KILLED THEM!” I nearly shouted as I climbed back to my feet.

“Relax, they’ll be fine. Probably.” Spike said, relaxing more into his seat.

“I want my fucking money back before they die!” I stated.

“You are very impatient.” Spike said, shoving me into the co-pilot’s seat. “Sit. And don’t touch anything.”

“Fine.” I huffed. Spike stared at their ship for a moment before the power flickered back on. Spike pressed a button and Snips and Snails came back onto the screen.

“So here’s what’s going to happen. You’re going to eject all the money and valuables from your cargo, and you’re going to fly away. Are we understood?” Spike said factually. There was a long pause before the screen clicked off. I saw several crates released from Snip’s airlock moments later. “Happy?” Spike asked, turning to me as Snip’s ship started to fly away.

“Maybe.” I said. A smaller ship came into view and started to bring the cargo into Icarus. “I’d question that if I had the ability to care right now.” I said.

“So you got your money, anywhere in specific you want us to drop you off?” Spike asked, eyeing me quietly.

“Actually…” I said quickly. Spike just groaned and let his head fall back. “What? I don’t want to get kidnapped!” He just looked at me for a moment before leaning in, staring silently. “What?”

“Why you?” Spike pondered, looking me up and down with genuine interest.

“I’m a mare and I’m alone.” I said quickly.

“No…” Spike said seriously, staring almost coldly at me. “It’s more than that. There’s a reason you’re here, on this ship. THIS ship. The people we were after just happened to be the ones you are after. Who are you?” He asked.

“I already told you who I am.” I stated.

“I know your name, that’s not what I’m asking.” Spike said, standing up and approaching me slowly.

“Why does it matter?” I questioned as I stood up and backed away from him.

“If you’re not behind this, then someone else is. Someone wanted us to be together because they know me.” Spike said, still walking towards me.

“What the hell are you talking about? I wanted to pull a bounty on those two idiots and Bulk offered to help!” I said defensively.

“Why were they on your planet? Of all places it was you. They happened to have the stolen cargo there, the stolen ship there. Someone wanted me to run into you, and they knew Bulk wouldn’t let you get hurt.” Spike said.

“You’re crazy.” I said.

“Crazy from experience.” Spike joked. He stared at me for a few more moments. “Maybe I am overreacting, but maybe I’m not. Either way…”

There was a knocking on the door. Spike turned and saw the owl peek in and nod. “Well the engines are fixed. You know what else?” Spike asked.

“What?” I asked.

“I think you might be trying to kill me.” Spike said calmly.

“Why would I be trying to kill you?” I asked.

“Simple… You infiltrate my ship and break my engines just in time for Snips and Snails to catch up. Do you see where I’m going with this?” Spike said, eyeing me suspiciously.

“One. I’m not going to kill you. Two. You’re fucking crazy. And three. I’M NOT GOING TO FUCKING KILL YOU!” I shouted.

“I’m sure.” Spike smiled, turning and taking a seat again in the pilot’s seat. A few buttons later the blackness of space began twisting into a sea of white again. “Even if you are, the people who sent you know me well enough to know that I’m not going to let anything happen to you.”

“What are you going on about now?” I questioned as my curiosity peaked.

“Because if something happened to you then I don’t get paid.” Spike said after a short pause. “Casualties n’ all…”

“You haven’t answered my question. What the hell are you talking about?” I stated.

“I just told you… No civilian casualties. If you got hurt then I wouldn’t get my money for the cargo.” Spike repeated.

“Why would that... “ I started.

“Unless you’re not a civilian.” Spike suggested, turning to me.

“I didn’t say that!” I said quickly.

“If you’re unarmed, you’re a civilian. So why don’t you give me the gun?” Spike asked calmly, holding his hand out.

I stared blankly at him for a few moments, “How…” I started to mumble.

“If someone is playing me, you’re definitely not part of it. You don’t even know how to use one of those do you?” Spike asked.

“I do!” I said quickly.

“Oh really? So you’re not a civilian then?” Spike raised an eyebrow. “So not only did you get onto my ship, you broke my engine and almost got us killed, and now you’re alone with the captain in the cockpit with a gun that you ‘know how to use’.” Spike questioned. “That sounds like an assassin to me.”

“If I’m an assassin then why didn’t I kill you earlier when everyone was distracted?” I questioned.

“That’s a great question. You might want to check the gun.” Spike said.

I pulled the gun out of my pants and noticed that it felt a little lighter than before. I saw the clip had been taken out. I stared wide eyed at the empty gun. My mind reeled, how could anyone have gotten it out without me noticing? “You know it’s easy to make mistakes when the ship is rattling and shaking about.” Spike said. “You had the gun in the back of your pants, handle out. The clip goes into the bottom of the handle, into the chamber. You didn’t see me come in when you were in the cargo ship with Bulk, and I can tell when there’s an outline of a gun in someone’s pants.” He smiled. “So if you tried to kill me, I would have heard a click. And guess what? I didn’t.”

“So why exactly were you questioning if I was an assassin? That seems like a complete waste of time.” I stated.

“Because I wanted to see what you’d do.” Spike said. “If you WERE an assassin, the time to kill me would have been when I was questioning your identity, and I’m sure you’d try it.”

“I have one question now.” I said.

“What would that be?” He asked.

“Why the hell would you stare at a mare’s ass perv?” I questioned.

“Well you could have had an extra clip…” Spike started, scratching his neck.

“Mmhm. Nice excuse.” I said with a sly grin.

“And you know, people can hide those things anywhere. Hell you might have a grenade in there!” Spike said, pointing to my crotch.

My grin grew even wider. “I’m sure you’d just love to check wouldn’t you?” I asked coyly.

“I like having my genitals not exploded.” Spike chuckled.

“I’m sure that’s it.” I nodded. The whiteness outside the ship slowly faded to black, and I saw the surroundings had changed. There was a large green planet in front of us that we were heading towards.

“Well it looks like we’re here.” Spike said, staring at the many stations and ships in orbit above the bustling planet.

“I noticed.” I said. Spike glanced back at me and started laughing. “What?” I questioned stepping up to him.

“Nothing.” Spike shook his head, turning back to the planet. “Welcome to the crew kid.”

Episode II: Getting Paid

“What do you mean it’s not registrated?” Spike questioned, the annoyance clear in his voice.

“Sorry sir, your ship just isn’t in the system.” The dock worker said apologetically. Spike turned and saw men unloading the ship.

“What the hell! Put those back.” Spike shouted angrily.

“We have to check all cargo for illegal or stolen contraband.” The worker reassured. “I’m sure you have nothing to hide.” I bit down on my lip and looked away.

“And how long does this process usually take. You know… checking cargo.” Spike asked calmly.

“About three hours. There’s already a lot of work today so you’re pretty high in the queue.” The worker said. “Really sorry.”

Spike nodded and pulled me back onto the ship. “So what’s the news?” Bulk asked.

“I’ll tell you it’s not good.” I said quickly.

“Looks like we’re re-repossessing some cargo.” Spike laughed.

“I don’t even want to guess what that means.” I said.

“Well first of all… We need a distraction.” Spike said, glancing at Bulk who nodded and walked further into the ship. Spike motioned me to follow him as he walked out of the ship. We attempted to walk past the worker, who stopped us immediately.

“Sorry sir but you can’t just leave. If you’re ship isn’t registered then…” He started. A small grinding was heard atop Icarus. Everyone turned and looked, seeing that the right wing was twisting slowly.

“What is he doing…” I started slowly.

“Distraction.” Spike smiled. Moments later the wing detached, hovering gently. The wings were… fighters?

“What the hell?” One of the workers said aloud. The fighter fired a shot at one of the many crates in the loading dock, causing everyone to scatter.

“Annnd run.” Spike whispered, tugging me along as we bolted past the guards, who now had something new to focus on.

“Do you even know where the crates are being held?” I questioned as I tried to keep pace with him.

“Not a clue.” Spike said, leading us into one of the warehouses. My eyes widened at the large amount of crates littered throughout the area.

“How are we supposed to find them in this mess?” I mumbled as I looked around. Spike approached one of the crates and put his ear up to it, knocking on the top. “What are you doing?” I questioned curiously. Spike ignored me and approached another, repeating the process. “HELLO!” I nearly shouted at him. Spike turned to me slowly and shushed me before continuing. I started to tap my foot impatiently as I stared at him. “This is going to take forever if you plan on doing this to every crate in the warehouse.” I grumbled.

“It wouldn’t if you helped.” Spike said as he turned back and smiled.

“What am I supposed to be listening for?” I questioned. Spike continued ignoring me and knocking on the crates. I sighed and joined him in knocking on the crates. I approached one and put my ear up to it, tapping it with my knuckles. I was greeted by a loud, returned knocking from inside it. “Spike.” I said loudly. The lid popped off and there was a blue circle on the underside of it. “Found something.” The owl from the ship popped his head out of the stuffed animal filled crate and stared at me. “Hi.” I said. The owl blinked a few times, seeming caught off guard by my presence. He seemed slightly off, seeming slightly drunk in his… everything. “Spike! Get over here NOW!” I said. Spike was by my side in almost an instant. He stared at the owl and narrowed his eyes.

“Hey Owlick, you okay?” Spike asked. Owlick looked at the two of us before smiling and falling back into the stuffed animals. Spike glanced down, seeing that one of them had fallen out and was torn open. He grabbed it and reached inside, pulling a small bag out of one. “Oh. Ohhh…” He started, nodding slowly.

“What?” I questioned.

“He’s high, and we are now drug smugglers.” Spike said.

“That’s great.” I sighed, “Just… great.”

“Now we just need to get the crates out.” Spike said, looking around the warehouse.

“And how are we going to do that?” I asked.

“How much can you carry?” Spike asked, turning to me.

“I don’t know!” I said quickly. Footsteps were heard just outside the warehouse. “We’ll find out though!” I quickly attempted to lift one of the nearby crates. I struggled futilely and panted as it escaped my grip.

“Owlick, you know what to do.” Spike said. Owlick nodded and hopped out of the crate. Spike took two of the stuffed animals and took a breath in, breathing fire on the two of the stuffed bears and illuminating them in its’ green hue.

“What the hell do you think you’re doing?!” I questioned. Owlick grabbed the two bears, holding them by the parts that hadn’t lit up yet. Two men walked in and froze, staring at the three of us. Owlick held the bears above his head and screeched, bolting towards them. The two ponies practically screamed in fear at the owl wielding two flaming teddy bears and stormed right back out as Owlick chased them.

“And while he does that.” Spike started, walking off to the side and grabbing one of the dollies to help move the crates. I quickly grabbed another one and wheeled it over. The two of us moved the crates out to the entrance and set the dollies down. I looked around at the edge of the dock and at the water that many sea-bound ships were docked at as well.

“What now?” I asked. Spike turned and sat down, leaning back against one of the crates and relaxing. “We’re just going to relax?”

“Mmhm.” Spike nodded.

“What… Mm… Fine.” I muttered. Spike patted the ground next to him and looked up at me. I sighed and sat down beside him.

“So.” Spike said.

“So what?” I asked. Spike smiled and continued to stare at me.

“Tell me about yourself.” He said.

“Why do you care to know?” I asked defensively.

“I like to know the people that will be sleeping on my ship.” Spike started.

“I’m no one.” I said.

“Well that’s not true. You’re a pony, with white skin, and you’re a unicorn. That’s a good enough foundation.” Spike laughed.

“Let me rephrase that. I’m no one important.” I said. “There isn’t much to tell.”

“That’s not true. Everyone’s important. You went out to find two jerks who were stealing from you. You found me, and I found them. I’d say if anything that you’re very good at something. And that’s important.” Spike said, turning to me and smiling.

I smiled slightly, “Thanks for that. But I really don’t have much of a story to tell that you don’t already know.” I said.

“Well, you helped us get the cargo out… I’d say that’s a good second chapter.” Spike said.

“A little short for a chapter.” I shook my head and laughed.

“True.” Spike shrugged.

“I can tell you it was even more interesting then my first chapter ever was.” I said as I leaned back. Spike’s expression stayed frozen for a few moments, seeming lost in thought. “Spike?” I asked.

“Did I ever tell you my favorite chess piece?” Spike asked.

“No.” I shook my head.

“It resembles me the best.” Spike said, glancing over at me.

“Well what is it?” I asked. Spike just stared at me, his smile growing.

“I’ll tell you when we get back to the ship.” He said.

“Fine then.” I grumbled. “Don’t tell me.”

“You are the most impatient pony I’ve ever met.” Spike said, standing up and glancing out to the waters.

“No I’ve just gotten to the point where I understand that means you WON’T tell me.” I sighed.

“I’ll tell you.” Spike said, the sound of an engine slowly rising to our ears.

“Mmhm. I won’t hold my breath.” I nodded as I stood up. The fighter from earlier was now acting as a boat, pulling up to the dock and opening, Bulk piloting it.

“About time.” Spike said, wheeling one of the boxes into the fighter.

“Not much room in here, I’ll have to make a couple trips.” Bulk said.

“We’ve got the time.” I said as I wheeled the next crate in. “I doubt the guards are still going to be looking for us. Especially after… burning bear attack.”

“A day to remember.” Spike laughed, hitting the edge of the fighter and signaling the first load was in. Bulk nodded and the hatch closed, the fighter keeping low and flying out of view.

“Yep, and I can tell it’s only going to get better.” I chuckled. I stepped back and smiled slyly as I leaned against him. “Right?” I asked coyly.

“I’ve heard of sex on the beach, but this is ridiculous.” Spike joked.

“Pervert.” I laughed.

“Says the one coming onto me.” Spike said. He paused a moment. “That sounded better in my head.”

I laughed again, “You really need to calm down.” I said as I punched him in the shoulder.

“I’m calm, you’re the one trying to get into my pants.” Spike teased, slipping a hand around my waist.

“Who says I’m trying?” I said, “And look at you right now. Just finding a reason to touch my ass now aren’t you?”

“Oh I need a reason?” Spike questioned, squeezing my backside tightly.

I slapped him across the face, “Hands off. I didn’t say you could touch me like that.” I scolded. Spike put a hand to his cheek and nodded slowly.

“Right… got it.” Spike groaned.

“You managed to make it an even longer wait.” I said jokingly.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Spike asked curiously.

“You don’t need to worry about that anymore.” I said as I stepped away from him.

“So an arm around your waist is fine but if it so much as touches your ass it’s a crime? Women…” Spike sighed.

“You’re the one who grabbed me like I belonged to you.” I retorted.

“It’s a sign of trust! Go on and grab mine, I won’t complain.” Spike smirked.

“So grabbing and groping is a sign of trust now? Men…” I shook my head.

“Oh good.” Spike said, seeming distracted.

“What now?” I asked. Spike pointed down at the end of the warehouse. I looked and saw Owlick in cuffs, being dragged away. “Oh. We should free him.” I said.

“Yeah. You stay here.” Spike said, striding off away from me and following the guards.

“Fine. Leave me here alone.” I sighed as I glanced around. After a few moments I ran after Spike. “I said WE.” I stated as I caught up to him.

“Yes, and you’ll be helping by not getting in the way.” Spike said, speeding his pace up slightly.

“I’m not useless!” I said angrily.

“Okay, then go be ‘not useless’ near the crates, I’m sure you’ll do great.” Spike suggested, stopping at an alley and peeking down it in time to see Owlick be dragged around the corner at the other end.

I stopped and stared at Spike. “If you’re just going to treat me like I’m useless then I’m done.” I stated. Spike’s head slammed into the wall of the building.

“Fine, come on.” Spike sighed, rushing off down the alley. I ran after him and stayed close behind.

“I didn’t know you had a marefriend Spike.” A male voice said from behind us. I jumped and spun around, seeing a rather short stallion, a shaved head with tan skin.

“I’m not his marefriend.” I stated.

“Do you have my merchandise or what?” The short stallion asked.

“Nice to see you too Dark.” Spike sighed. “Yeah, I got your stuff. It’s just uh…”

“It’s just uh?” Dark questioned, tilting his head.

“We have… half of it.” Spike continued.

“Half?” Dark said quietly.

“The other half is currently on its’ way to my ship. The rest is still at the docks.” Spike said. I glanced nervously between them and stepped back.

“Ah, that’s good.” Dark said calmly.

“Why is that good?” I asked.

“For a second there, I thought you lost it.” Dark laughed, making me feel even more uneasy.

“Okay…” I mumbled as I looked to Spike.

“Yeah, we got it don’t worry.” Spike said, pushing me back gently.

“Only… why are you transporting it off the cargo ship to your ship?” Dark asked, cocking his head and staring silently at us. “You do have my ship… don’t you?”

I glanced nervously at Spike. “It got a little damaged. Bulk is repairing it don’t worry.” Spike said reassuringly.

“Oh? What happened?” Dark asked curiously.

“Engine troubles…” Spike said, pushing me further behind himself to protect me. I hid behind him and remained motionless.

“Really? Because… I could have sworn that you blew it up.” Dark said coldly.

I gulped quietly. “Well we couldn’t exactly destroy the drugs you’ve had me smuggling, so I had to get the cargo out of the ship.” Spike said. I could feel he was shaking slightly.

“What… what’s going to happen…” I mumbled quietly.

“Listen, I can get you a new ship. We have your cargo I swear, just let her go and I’ll take you to it.” Spike said quickly. Dark approached the two of us and looked up at me. I stared down at him.

“You, stand over there.” Dark said, pointing to me and then motioning a few feet away.

I looked to Spike. “Listen, no matter what happens, just find Owlick okay?” Spike said, grabbing my hand and squeezing it. I nodded slowly and started to step backwards, my hand slipping from his so slow it was almost painful.

Dark reached into his pocket and pulled out a yellow remote with a metallic fork looking thing at the end. He jabbed it against Spike’s scales and pressed the button, immediately sending currents of electricity through him. Moments later Spike went limp and fell to the ground.

I stumbled back a little more and held back my tears as I bolted from the alleyway, both fear and anger tearing through my mind. I needed to find Owlick and make sure that both he and Bulk know what happened to Spike so we could… do something… No… So we could get him back. I ran and looked around for anything that resembled a police station. My eyes caught the sleek white vehicles outside a rather busy looking area, all of them with the word ‘Enforcers’ written on the side. I rushed towards the cars and saw what I assumed was the station, hurrying inside. The station was full of people and looked as bustling as any other part of the city. I noticed the thin grey pegasus at the front desk, writing out forms and sorting them. “Hello?” I said. She looked up at me for a moment before returning to the paperwork.

“What is it?” She asked.

“I’m looking for someone who was just taken here.” I stated. The mare simply looked up at me and glanced around at the several cells full of people in the back and the many officers either interrogating or transferring criminals. “An owl.” I said. “And I need him released.”

“That’s going to be difficult. You’re going to need the right paperwork, and that’s if it’s a minor crime, a misdemeanor. If he’s committed a felony or anything serious, he’ll have to go through court.” She assured.

I face palmed. “I don’t have any TIME to do that! My friend is in serious danger!” I nearly shouted at the mare.

“Well I’m sorry. If you can find him you can talk to him, but he’s not getting out.” She said calmly before returning to her work.

I walked away from her, “Piss poor excuse of a fucking cop…” I grumbled quietly as I set to work searching for Owlick. I spotted the familiar brown feathers trailing to the back in one of the cells. I approached the small room locked with bars and saw Owlick sitting on the bench in it. He looked up at me and waved. I waved him over to the bars. He stood up and approached the bars, staring at me for a few moments before waving again. I waved back before getting serious again. “Spike’s been kidnapped.” I started. “By a stallion named Dark Shadow.” Owlick blinked a few times before tapping the bars. “I can’t get you out…” I sighed. Owlick stared at me for a moment before returning to his seat. “I’m sorry.” I said. Owlick shrugged and waved me off dismissively. I looked away as a small feeling of hopelessness came over me. My heart skipped a beat as I felt his arms wrap around me through the bars. I sniffled quietly and looked up at him. A squeak escaped my mouth as he spun me around, holding my back tightly against the bars. “What are you…” I muttered quietly. One of the arms around me moved and pointed to a guard, a set of keys jingling on his waist. I nodded slowly. Owlick pointed at the guard again and motioned me to bring him over.

“H… help…” I squeaked loud enough for the guard to hear me. The guard looked up wide-eyed at me and slowly walked over.

“Just let her go.” The guard said. Owlick motioned the guard closer, who immediately obliged. Owlick’s grip loosened and he grabbed his chest, falling to his knees in pain.

“Oh god he’s having a heart attack!” I said quickly. The guard rushed over to the cell and reached for his keys, pausing and staring down at Owlick.

“Wait… you’re… what are you doing back he-” The guard started. Owlick’s hands shot forward and grabbed the guard’s feet, yanking them towards himself and causing the guard to fall onto his back. He pulled the guard’s legs through the bars and the metal bar immediately hit him in the groin. “Hhgh...phnngohh…” The guard sputtered, going quiet immediately and curling up. I quickly grabbed the keys and unlocked the door to the cell. “If this is going to go any further we need a distraction.” I stated. Owlick stepped out and looked around. He grabbed the keys from me and nodded. “Let’s do this.” I said. “First off, I think we should… what are you doing?”

Owlick moved to another cell and unlocked it, then another… and another. All the prisoners thanked him and rushed out as each cell opened. Several cops shouted and tackled the prisoners, only for more to come and start fighting. The entire station went up in a large riot.

“Come on lets’ go now!” I said as I grabbed Owlick and yanked him out the currently unwatched front door. Owlick looked around and glanced back to me as if waiting orders. “We need to get back to Bulk and tell him what happened. Then we can go get Spike back.” I stated. “You got any idea how to get to Bulk?”

Owlick scratched his head an nodded. He pointed over to where Icarus was docked and then to himself.

“Okay… Just make sure you come back.” I said quietly as I ran off to go locate Spike. There was something that caught my eye. There was a white trail on the ground, and it looked like stuffing that you’d have in a… stuffed animal. I slowly followed the trail, hoping that it’d lead me to wherever they took Spike. The trail ended at a door to a lighthouse at the corner of the docks (which wasn’t very populated). I approached the door and pressed my ear to it, hearing chatter, along with pained grunts inside. I gritted my teeth as I tried to quickly think of a plan, then I remembered I still had the gun in the back of my pants. I knew it wasn’t loaded and Spike was the only other person who knew. I grabbed the gun with one hand and then opened the door. I pointed the gun at the first person I saw. There were two male pegasus sitting at a table, one had a donut stuffed in his mouth, the other had a TV remote in his hand. I glanced up at the TV, where one guy was being tortured. I quietly stepped back out and shut the door.

“Fuck.” I muttered quietly. My eyes wandered down to the trail I had followed, and noticed that it didn’t stop here, and trailed around the lighthouse. I didn’t notice because it had gotten thinner, but it was definitely there. I moved around the lighthouse to another door that lead to a stairwell, spiraling up to the top. I held the gun tightly and slowly climbed the stairs. I tried my best to remain quiet so I’d be able to surprise whoever was at the top. The closer I grew to the tip of the iceberg, the more I heard talking, and one of the voices sounded VERY familiar. I got to the top and crouched down, my hand gripping the gun even tighter as I walked slowly to the door. I turned the handle and threw it open, pointing it immediately in. Spike was in the center of the room, tied to a chair. Dark was next to him, along with a few thuggish looking earth ponies. I stood up and gripped the gun with both hands and aimed at Dark.

“Well I can say with absolute sincerity, I didn’t expect that.” Dark chuckled, staring at the gun in my hand.

“Get down on the ground and put your hands behind your back, you’re under arrest.” I said firmly, trying my best to act like a cop. I glanced around at everyone else in the room and remained firm.

“You’re a cop? Interesting…” Dark started. “Why don’t you show us your badge Ms. Law.”

“And drop my guard? What do you think I am an idiot?” I questioned.

Dark raised an eyebrow and raised a hand, motioning everyone back. The other thugs moved back and took a seat in whatever chairs there were in the room. “So, any more guard I have to let down for you to feel safe?” He smiled. I stared at him through narrow eyes, my heart starting to beat a little faster. “Well? We’re waiting.”

“If she’s undercover, why would she have a badge on her?” Spike said aloud, his voice cracking an sounding very weak. Dark glanced at Spike and thought for a moment.

“Point taken.” Dark nodded.

“Get on the ground now.” I ordered.

“Or you’ll shoot us?” Dark questioned, getting a laugh from one or two of the other ponies.

I choked up for a moment, “Yes. I will.” I stated calmly. My eyes shifted to Spike, and something seemed off. The spikes around his waist that were there previously were gone, and replaced with small holes instead.

“Well, prove it.” Dark challenged, jumping to his feet and walking towards me slowly.

“Get back!” I ordered.

“Shoot me go on. But think of what’ll happen to your friend back there.” Dark said, a couple thugs moving to either side of Spike.

“You think I’d come in alone?” I questioned, a small smile coming across my face.

“Yeah, I do.” A voice from behind me said. My eyes widened as I turned, seeing the guy from downstairs that was eating a donut.

“Oh, it’s not loaded.” Dark said. My head snapped back and I saw he was directly in front of me and analyzing the gun, a smile on his face. I felt a hand wrap around my horn as the pony behind me gripped it. My magic attempted to spark to life but sizzled immediately.

“Let go of me!” I shouted. I struggled in the stallion’s grip as he groped my chest with his other hand.

“You have fun Butch.” Dark chuckled, turning and walking back to Spike. I slammed the gun I was still holding as hard as I could into Butch’s crotch. Butch had almost no reaction, smirking down at me.

My heart stopped as fear consumed me. My eyes shifted back up to Spike, and the green spikes around his waist had returned, along with the ropes looking to have shifted slightly. I stared at him as I was beginning to hope he had some sort of plan. My eyes widened and a smile formed on my face. “Hey dick!” I shouted. Dark stopped and turned to me, raising an eyebrow. “You’re as short as it after all.” I stated. A few thugs laughed, getting a glare from Dark immediately shutting them up. “You gonna let all your friends fight your battles for you? That’s what you are, a small midgety bitch.”

Dark clenched his fists and motioned Butch to back off. The pony behind me released me from his grip and crossed his arms, a devious smile on his face. “Okay you little brat, you wanna fight?” Dark questioned.

My smile widened and I stepped towards him. “Yeah I do.” I stated. I looked over at Spike and saw the same smile on his face. Spike threw his arms out, revealing the ropes had been cut. He wrapped one part of the rope around the goon to his left’s neck. The thug on the right moved to attack, but the green spikes around Spike’s waist shifted, revealing his sharp spikey tail, whipping it around the goon’s leg and digging the barbed whip around it. I threw the gun to Spike, who threw the strangled guard over his shoulder into the one whose leg was trapped, sending them both to the ground. Spike caught the gun and reached into his pocket quickly, pulling out the clip from before and loading it into it, aiming it at Dark immediately. I stared at Dark and my horn began to glow. Butch grabbed my horn again, an icy chill striking my spine as my head was yanked back and something sharp was put to my neck.

“Easy you two.” Dark said calmly. I stared fearfully at Spike. Spike sighed and shrugged, tossing the gun to Dark and leaning back in the chair. Butch released me and pointed to one of the empty chairs. I slowly walked over to the chair and sat down in it. Spike glanced towards me, something catching his eye and enlarging his smile further, making him relax entirely. I stared curiously at him for a moment.

“So, what do you want to talk about?” Spike said, resting one leg over the other.

“Finally, some civility.” Dark grinned, pulling a chair in front of the two of us and sitting down. I glanced to my right at Spike, hoping he had something up his sleeve. “Where’s my stuff.”

“What stuff?” Spike cocked his head curiously. I glanced over at Dark and waited silently.

“Let’s try to be sensical alright? Just tell me where my merchandise is and we’ll let you go, simple as that.” Dark asked.

“If it was as simple as that you wouldn’t have kidnapped us.” Spike chuckled.

“Mm, true. But honestly, I do like money, and those drugs are worth a lot.” Dark hummed.

“Well I did say they were being transferred to my ship, go on and check.” Spike said confidently.

“Oh I know, I just needed some leverage incase your friends decide to pull anything.” Dark said, pointing to the two of us.

“Very clever. You just seemed to forget something.” Spike said. Dark smiled a little more and opened his arms as if challenging Spike.

“You’re both trapped in this tower, full of my gang. A gang that I lead, and I get so much money from idiots like you who want a dime to get by, they’ll steal or take anything I want. So tell me Spike, what did I forget?” Dark questioned. There was a long pause.

“There’s a transmitter.” Spike smiled. Dark stared at him for a moment, a cold realization hitting him. Dark snapped his head to Butch, who ran behind Spike and checked him.

“I don’t see anything.” Butch stated.

“You’re bluffing.” Dark said threateningly. There was a pause as everyone in the room turned to me. Butch walked up behind me slowly and brushed my hair away, a small pain as if a band aid had been torn off on the back of my neck. I looked and saw a small green patch that had been there the whole time. My eyes widened and I smiled. I heard the sound of something in the distance.

“So here’s what’s going to happen.” Spike started, leaning back further. “You’re going to drop the gun and walk away, and you’re going to leave any money you happen to have in this lighthouse, which I assume you’re using as your base.”

“What’s to stop us from just killing you now and getting out of here?” Dark questioned. Spike stared at him for a moment before standing up and snatching the transmitter from Butch.

“Attention, this is Papa bear, do you read me Buffy?” Spike said extremely confidently. There was a click as Bulk’s voice came from the transmitter.

“Loud and clear Papa bear.” Bulk’s voice rang out.

“Let’s rattle em Buffy.” Spike stated. The sound was heard again, this time closer. It sounded like... Music?

There was a small shaking as the entire lighthouse started to rumble, getting more and more violent. I grabbed the chair almost out of instinct as it was shaking just as much as everything else was, providing no support to stop myself from shaking. Everyone but Spike covered their heads as the windows blew out. My eyes snapped to the now windowless holes in the wall. Icarus, looking massive from my point of view, was hovering just outside, all its’ guns aimed at Dark, now realizing IT was the source of the music. “Now… what say you?” Spike asked, crossing one leg over the other.

Dark stood absolutely silent for a solid thirty seconds before him, Butch, and the other thugs rushed out the door and down the stairs. “And that’s how it’s done.” Spike smiled. He shifted his weight and groaned in pain, slumping back down in the chair.

I rushed over to him and pulled him up against my body to support him. “Thank you…” I said quietly as I hugged him. There was no response from him, which sent a small surge of panic through me. I looked down and saw he had his face shoved in my chest. I sighed and pushed his head out, “Perv.” I smiled.

“To be fair, I…” Spike started. I cut him off as I shoved his head back in between my breasts.

“Just enjoy the moment. You won’t be getting to do this often.” I laughed. A voice came out from the transmitter again.

“You two okay?” Bulk’s voice called. Spike’s arms shot up and his thumbs extended, giving Icarus two thumbs up.

I laughed a little louder, “We’re fine thanks to you guys.” I said. A small twinge of curiosity hit me. “Hey… How did that get on me anyway?”

Spike looked down at the transmitter and chucked it out the broken window. My eyes tracked it and saw Owlick leaning out of the now open lift and caught it, throwing me a thumbs up before dodging back inside.

“And I thought he was trying to comfort me.” I sighed quietly.

“Well he trusted you to go alone. You know, the transmitter is two way. Icarus coming was plan B.” Spike said in absolute honesty. I stared silently down at him before looking up at Icarus. “Let’s get inside, something I want to show you.”

The two of us hopped out the window and onto the ramp that slid out from Icarus’ cargo bay, walking inside and watching it close behind us.

“So what is it?” I asked in a coy and sly tone as I stared at him innocently.

“Is sex all you think about? Pervert.” Spike joked, turning and heading up to the cockpit.

“Says the man who shoved his head into my breasts.” I said as I followed him.

“Well then stop putting them on display.” Spike teased. I simply stared at him. “I mean, they look good on you, really.” Spike said, scratching his chin, his eyes locked on my chest again.

“Do you want me to slap you again?” I asked. “Because I will.”

Spike turned and continued to the pilot’s seat, motioning me in and to sit down. I walked up and sat down beside him. Icarus flew higher to a city view, now able to see the many electronic billboards, televisions, and advertisements attached to the tall skyscrapers.

“Okay?” I questioned. “Is this it?”

“Like I said before, it transmits both ways.” Spike smiled, flipping a switch. All the TVs and billboards turned white with static. Moments later a picture of Dark appeared on all of them, and I could make out some audio.

I started to laugh. “Bulk, get us the hell off this planet.” Spike said, standing up and heading to the door to the hall outside the cockpit.

“Hey.” I said, stopping him immediately. He turned back and stared tiredly at me. “You never told me your favorite chess piece.”

Spike smiled widely. “I don’t have one.” He said. I blinked a few times and stared bemused at the beaten up dragon. He walked out the door. “I don’t like chess.” He called as the door shut, leaving me alone in the cockpit. A smile spread on my face and I just started to laugh.

“Wait, what about the crates of drugs?” I called. I opened the door in time to see Owlick with a large handful of the stuffed animals, taking them into his room and disappearing. I slumped back in the chair and sat silently for a few moments. My eyes returned out the front window, watching Dark’s faces grow further as we drifted higher, flying away to another chapter of the story I’m now a character in. And to be honest… I’m starting to like this book.

Episode III Part I: Follow The Rules

Spike and I took a seat at a table of rather… different. One was formal, in a suit and tie, with a bodyguard in equally as formal clothes. There was another man that wore casual clothing, and another with that of a soldier. “So, what’s the job exactly?” Spike asked.

“Well first off, It would be appropriate for everyone to introduce themselves, don’t you think?” One of the formal ponies suggested. “I am Suno, and this is my bodyguard, Chey.”

“Spike.” Spike nodded.

“Sweetie.” I said.

“Silver Hood.” The poor looking man said with a smile.

“Is this all of the people?” Spike asked.

“No, there should be two more.” Suno said.

“That sounds like an engine.” Spike said, glancing back at the door to the small room. Two people entered, one younger boy and an elderly pony with a cane.

“Everyone’s here now.” I stated. The younger child attempted to close the door, but was thrown to the ground as it swung open. A larger blue minotaur walked in and sat down without a word. The colt looked up at the minotaur with anger, balling his fists before calmly standing up and sitting down next to what was presumed to be his grandfather. I glanced to Suno and patiently waited for the meeting to start. Suno sat quietly, staring at the three new guests.

“This is my grandson Sen.” The elderly earth pony said, his gray hair covering practically his entire body. The sixteen year old boy took a bow and stayed quiet, his clothing seeming torn and as old as his elder. I looked to the elder and waited for him to give his name. “Oh sorry dear… My memory gives out sometimes. I’m Alfred.”

“Interesting… Sounds familiar.” Spike said.

“Mmm…” Chey mumbled, shrugging and glancing to Suno.

“Since everyone’s here…” I started, not wanting to sound too impatient.

“Yes. What are we meeting about exactly?” Spike asked. I glanced to Spike as a sudden nervous feeling overcame me. Why exactly would he bring us somewhere where he had no idea what could happen?

“I dunno.” Alfred shrugged.

“One of us has to know.” The minotaur snorted.

“Does anyone know anything?” I asked. Everyone silently stared at each other.

“I’ll take that as a no.” Spike said.

“Oh this can’t be good.” I sighed.

“I’m Iron Will, you’ve probably heard of me.” The minotaur chuckled, extending his hand to me. “No need to be scared pretty lady.”

I stared at Iron Will and reluctantly took his hand. He gripped my hand tightly and stared at me with a smirk on his face. “What’s that smirk about?” I questioned.

“If I were a mugger, you’d be dead.” He said. “I can teach you to protect yourself but… It’ll cost.” He scooted uncomfortably close to me.

“I’m fine.” I said as I moved away from him. Iron grabbed my hand again and yanked me closer.

“Where you going? You could get some protection if you want.” Iron snickered.

“Let go of me or I WILL make you regret it.” I growled. There was a tap on Iron’s shoulder. Everyone turned to see the still unnamed soldier standing there.

“Can you leave her alone?” The soldier asked.

“Or else what? You gonna do something shrimp?” Iron laughed. The soldier kneed Iron in the crotch and shoved him onto the table, making him tumble to the other side. Suno slid his chair casually out of the way as Iron flew past, watching in his usual elegant manor.

“How crude.” Suno huffed. Alfred smiled and started to laugh.

“Thanks.” I said, glancing up at the soldier.

“It’s people like that, that made me join up.” The soldier nodded, taking a seat again. Iron stood up and snorted, glaring at the soldier.

“That was really violent…” Silver Hood started.

“It wasn’t like he didn’t deserve it.” I said.

Everyone heard a click, but no one was able to determine where it originated.

“Um…” I started. Spike glanced at Sen and stared.

“You okay kid?” Spike asked. Sen blinked, his head snapping up to Spike.

“Yes, he’s fine.” Alfred reassured.

“I still have a bad feeling about all of this.” I said. There was a louder click, followed by a thump. Everyone’s head turned, seeing Iron Will was on the ground.

“Hello? You alright sir?” Silver Hood asked curiously.

“Um… I think he’s dead.” I muttered as I stood up quickly. A pool of blood started to pool, and everyone saw a small hole on the left side of Iron’s chest. “He’s been shot!” I stated loudly.

“Yep.” Spike nodded, his eyes locked on something else. I turned and tracked what he was looking at and saw a bullet hole in the window.

“We need to get out of here.” I said, “It’s pretty damn obvious someone’s trying to kill us.”

“If someone wanted us dead, we’d be dead.” Spike said, pointing out the window. Our heads turned and saw the flash of light on a scope atop the building across from ours.

“Then… why call us all here in the first place?” I asked.

“Because someone wants to play.” Spike said.

“Well… Mm…” Suno mumbled. Chey stepped between Suno and the window. “Thank you.”

“Mmhm.” Chey nodded.

“Yeah that meatbag will protect you against that high powered sniper rifle.” Spike chuckled.

“Well… I don’t think whoever invited US here invited all of us. Didn’t you say there were only supposed to be two more people joining us and he walked in behind them?”

“Maybe we just didn’t get all the information.” Suno suggested.

“That would make sense.” Silver nodded.

“So we’re on the top floor of an office building, and we just happen to have a sniper watching us. Boy we sure got the right job.” Spike chuckled, nudging me.

“Never a dull moment.” I shook my head.

“Well maybe he wants us to do something?” Alfred suggested.

“Well if this is a game, I suppose he wouldn’t want us to just sit here.” Suno nodded.

“Maybe there’s something in the room that’ll tell us what to do?” Spike said. Everyone turned and started to browse the office, except for Spike. Spike seemed to have his attention somewhere else.

“Spike?” I asked curiously.

“Something’s off…” Spike said, approaching the window and glancing up to the roof of the opposite building.

“What’s off?” I asked quietly as I approached him. There was another click, and another hole appeared in the glass. I jumped backwards with a small yelp.

“He’s just trying to scare you.” Spike dismissed, continuing to observe the rooftop.

“A bullet is still a bullet!” Suno stated. “What if it had ricocheted? Someone could have died.”

“Someone is already dead sir.” Chey whispered. Suno looked over at Iron Will.

“Ah, right…” Suno nodded.

“Why would he be trying to scare us? I mean killing someone is already enough. That just shows he could take any of us down at any time.” I said in as calm a tone as I could muster with my pounding heart.

“Because he doesn’t want any of us to find out his secret.” Spike said factually.

“Very observant.” A male voice called out from somewhere in the room.

I glanced nervously around for the source of the voice. “So what do you want?” Spike called out.

“What does someone who burns ants with a magnifying glass want?” The voice said.

“Power?” I questioned.

“Entertainment.” The voice corrected.

“So we’re ants?” Suno questioned.

“Figuratively speaking.” The voice confirmed.

“Well this is outrageous! I will not stand here and be insulted with childish nonsense.” Suno said, walking to the door.

“Don’t!” I said quickly. Chey ripped Suno away from the door in time as another click was heard, and a hole was seen in the wall opposite the window.

“I’m going to have to ask you to not do that again.” The voice said calmly.

“You’re going to pay for this.” Suno stated angrily.

“When it’s over maybe… But I haven’t been caught before.” The voice laughed quietly.

“There’s a first time for everything.” I said.

“You are not allowed to leave until you listen to the rules.” The voice started.

“Then tell us the rules already.” I stated.

“You’re very assertive. Has she always been like this?” The voice mused.

“She’s learning.” Spike chuckled. I glared at Spike.

“Everyone kindly take a seat.” The voice said. Me and the others pulled up a chair around the table. “Good. There should be a watch under everyone’s seat, please put it on.”

I reached down and sure enough, there was a watch attached to the bottom of my chair. It looked strange, and was larger than the average. It wasn’t analog, it was digital. I nervously glanced up at Spike. “What other choice do we have?” Spike shrugged, putting the watch around his wrist as the others did so. I uncertainly put my watch on too. The moment everyone had one on, they tightened around our wrists and a sharp pain spiked through my hand. I yelped and gripped my hand tightly.

“What in the world!” Suno snapped, tugging on the watch.

“I wouldn’t do that.” The voice suggested.

“I don’t even want to know why not.” I said as my mouth went dry.

“Oh but I went through all the work, it wouldn’t be any fun if you didn’t know what was going on.” The voice cooed.

“Just get on with it.” I stated angrily.

“You see, those watches have an I.V. in it, and are now connected to your radial arteries.” The voice said.

“And what’s in the I.V.’s?” I questioned.

“Water.” The voice said plainly.

“Water?” Chey questioned.

“Well I could have used saline, it would have been healthier, but I was lazy.” The voice said defensively.

“What the hell is water going to do?” I snapped.

“Nothing, it just wouldn’t have been very good if nothing was in it. Air in your artery isn’t very good for you.” The voice said.

“You’ve already shown that you want us all to end up dead.” I stated.

“Oh you’re so naive. If I killed you quickly that wouldn’t be fun… But I won’t have you breaking the rules either.” The voice said in a more cold tone.

“Then get on with the damn rules already!” I said angrily.

“You see, now that the watches are on you, the I.V. seeks your artery. Once it is in, it creates a circuit. A circuit that now establishes a connection between the machinery in the watch. As you’ve probably noticed, they are now functional.” The voice said. I saw the watches all said 3:01. I silently stared down at the watch. “So technically, your circulatory system is indeed turning the gears in the watch that help it run. It is battery powered of course… But it needs a little more to help with the trigger.”

“Alright… and why are they needed?” Suno questioned.

“He’s going to tell us why.” I sighed quietly.

“Well you see, if you take the watch off, the circuit stops, and so does the watch.” The voice continued.

“And what happens if the watch stops?” I asked.

“Well then the bomb goes off.” The voice said.

“What… bomb?” I asked nervously.

“Oh relax, it’s not in the building you are in… It’s in mine.” The voice said. Everyone glanced to the rooftop, staring at the glimmer from the shooter’s scope again.

“And… that’s bad… how?” I asked. Spike pointed to the sign on the lower part of the building that read ‘Children’s Hospital’. “Oh fuck all.” I groaned.

“Now that I have your attention.” The voice laughed.

“So what do you want us to do?” Suno asked.

“It’s simple. The mechanics in your watch are linked to the bomb, and they must all be in sync in order to stay connected. And you can imagine what will happen if one goes out of sync…” The voice continued.

“So taking them off is a bad idea, got it.” Spike said.

“Not just that. But there are certain areas in the building that have… how should I say this… Bad reception?” The voice suggested.

“And that’s why you put us here.” I said. “So we can try to get out without setting off the bomb?”

“Now you’re getting it.” The voice cheered.

“There are only two ways to safely take the watch off. One, is to beat the game.” The voice said.

“And the other?” I asked.

“There is an extra watch under the empty chair, and there is one person that this watch will not activate on.” The voice said. Everyone turned to Iron’s body. “I assume you understand.”

“So our only option is to play your sick game?” I questioned.

“Well I said there were two. I wouldn’t suggest the other though… That’s simply bad for your health.” The voice said.

“I’m not dying just to get this stupid watch off.” I said.

“Then it’s settled.” The voice said excitedly. Spike glanced over to the child.

“Why doesn’t Sen have a watch?” Spike asked. Everyone turned and saw Sen wasn’t wearing one.

“Oh I’m not a monster… I hate seeing children get hurt.” The voice said

“Says the man who has a bomb in a children’s hospital.” I rolled my eyes.

“I’m not blowing it up… You are!” The voice laughed. “And it would be a shame if the police found the trigger in your watches now wouldn’t it?”

“And how would they connect it back to any of us?” I asked.

“Well you see, there is the first part of our game.” The voice giggled.

“Of course it is.” I grumbled. “Fucking psycho…”

“Oh now let’s not lose our sense of decency, there’s no reason to start throwing names.” The voice said in an almost hurt tone.

“Just get on with it.” I sighed.

“There’s a tape recorder somewhere in the building, attached to one of the many, many phones. And at 3:52, the message will play and the phone will dial a number.” The voice said.

“The police…” Spike sighed.

“Correct. And you can imagine what the police will want to do when they think there is a bomb.” The voice said.

“They’ll want to evacuate…” Suno continued.

“And that would be bad for everyone’s health.” The voice hummed.

“And why would that be?” I questioned.

“What happens if we leave the building?” Spike questioned.

“Did I mention the message isn’t the full truth?” The voice said apologetically.

“They’ll think the bomb is in THIS building…” Silver said quietly.

“So we need to find the phone and disable the tape.” I said.

“I should also mention that you will simply have to pick the phone up to disable it. When the recorder comes within reach of your watch, it will disconnect.” The voice said.

“That sounds too easy.” I said.

“Do you know how many phones are in this building?” Suno questioned.

“It is an office building, and we’re on the 47th floor.” Spike said.

“Damn it all... “ I groaned.

“Oh my, it’s 3:21 already. Time flies when you’re having fun doesn’t it?” The voice said. I growled quietly.

“Just… let my grandson go.” Alfred pleaded.

“Well he has a watch, he’s free to leave at any time.” The voice said. Sen looked up at Alfred and shook his head, grabbing his hand tightly.

I slowly stood up. “You may leave at any time… The clock is ticking.” The voice said.

“He’s not going to leave and you knew that.” I said in a cold tone.

“I never said I didn’t.” The voice laughed quietly. “Also… The reception I talked about earlier.”

“What about it?” Spike questioned.

“I’ve marked the areas where there is no reception in black tape.” The voice said reassuringly. “So no accidental children need to die. I just hate seeing little colts hurt...”

“Coming from you I’m going to call bull shit.” I stated.

“Tick, tock, tick, tock.” The voice hummed.

“So before we get started, what can we call you?” Spike asked.

“I like to call myself the Ragman.” The voice said calmly.

“I don’t get it…” The soldier questioned.

“Don’t worry about it, you don’t need to.” The Ragman said. Spike glanced to the soldier and stared.

“I don’t think you ever introduced yourself.” Spike said.

“I’m Bolt.” The soldier said in a disheartened tone.

“Come on. Let’s go find this phone we don’t have all that much time left.” I ordered.

“Let the games begin.” The Ragman said, an excitement in his tone that previously hadn’t been there.

Episode III Part II: Game Over

“Anything?” Spike shouted, finishing checking one of the many phones in the room.

“I’ve got nothing.” I shouted back.

“No sense in all of us checking the same room.” Suno said, straightening his suit as he and Chey left and entered another of the rooms on the same floor.

“Thats a great point.” I nodded. “We’d cover more phones if we all checked separate rooms.”

“Good point. I’ll finish this room up and move on.” Spike nodded. Bolt and Silver walked out together, then Alfred and Sen.

“I’ll go too.” I said as I started to walk out of the room. I nearly screamed as Spike grabbed me. “Don’t do that!” I said angrily as I turned to him.

“Keep an eye on them.” Spike said quietly.

“You don’t trust any of them?” I asked in the same quiet tone.

“I don’t know who to trust, and that’s what gets me. I have a feeling at least one of them is in on it.” Spike said.

“That’s great I’m not the only one that feels that way.” I sighed. “Don’t worry I’ll keep an eye on them.”

“Good… And Sweetie…” Spike started.

“Yeah?” I asked quietly.

“Be careful okay?” Spike said in a more concerned tone.

“I will.” I said with a reassuring smile. Spike smiled and nodded, giving my hand a squeeze before heading back to the search. I headed out the door and walked down the hall. The first room I saw Bolt practically flipping tables over to find anything out of the ordinary, while Silver was nervously doing the same (but much less violence mind you). I sighed and continued on to find at least one unoccupied room so I could search. “That’s not going to do anything.” I mumbled to myself. “We need to search for phones just pick them up! Not flip everything over!”

“I told him that.” Silver said quietly.

“There is a message attached to it and it’s probably not going to be visible on the top.” Bolt stated.

“And our watches deactivate it when they get close enough to PICK the phone up.” I retorted. Bolt just stared at me for a moment before flipping another table. I groaned and moved on to the next room. I saw Suno sitting down, casually watching as Chey ran around the room and checked phone by phone.

“Great job… Jolly good, keep it up!” Suno said in an effort to pep his guard up.

I put my head in my hands and groaned into them. “Nn… I don’t even…” I muttered. I didn’t even bother to ask as I moved down. In another I saw Alfred slowly picking up and checking the phones, shaking one next to his head and putting his ear up to one. Sen seemed to be doing it right, picking a phone up and then moving on to the next… But he was going almost as slow as Alfred. “Okay… Better. But… you could you know… move a bit faster we do have a time limit for this.”

Sen looked over at me, his eyes seeming to glisten with apology. “He’s a bit slow… He has a rare condition that hurts to move too fast. It’s like a form of arthritis.” Alfred said.

“Oh… I didn’t know.” I said quietly. “That’s fine then.” I smiled reassuringly.

“Hi.” Spike’s voice said from behind me, making me jump almost a foot into the air.

“Stop scaring me!” I said quickly as I glared at Spike. When I turned to him, his attention seemed to be on something else. “Spike?” I asked. He moved past me and walked up to Sen, staring down at the child. Sen looked curiously up at Spike as he kneeled down to his level. “What are you doing?” I asked. Spike lifted a hand and poked Sen in the eye. Sen flinched a moment or two later, blinking twice and staring wide eyed at Spike. “Spike.” I stated, getting a little angrier. Spike stared at Sen for a few more moments before standing up and moving to the doorway next to me. “Answer me.” I nearly growled as I glared at Spike.

“Did you notice anything strange just then?” Spike asked, glancing back at Alfred and Sen.

I glanced at the two other in the room and slowly walked out and down the hall. “I’m being serious.” Spike said, quickly catching up with me.

“I know.” I said in a quiet voice. “And I did.”

“What did you notice?” Spike asked.

“His reaction time. If you had poked me in the eye I wouldn’t have waited two seconds to hit you.” I stated.

“Good, just asking.” Spike said, moving on to another room. I sighed and shook my head.

“God damn it.” I muttered as I to continued to another room. I looked in, seeing it was empty. I walked in and checked each phone one by one, making sure to leave every phone that I had checked off the ringer. My eyes glanced to a door at the far end labeled ‘Administrator’. I walked over and opened it. There was a single desk surrounded by windows, with one phone on the desk. I saw something that seemed off. There was a recorder on the table next to the phone, and I have a feeling I knew what was in it. “Spike! I found it.” I called.

“Just a second!” Spike returned. I looked back to the phone and took a step, quickly being yanked back roughly.

“What the hell?” I questioned loudly. I snapped around and saw Spike holding on to me. He pointed down to the ground, and I saw a line of black tape in the doorway. I quickly glanced down at my watch, then I realized I hadn’t heard any explosion.

“Maybe we shouldn’t rush inside.” Spike suggested. I nodded quickly and glanced around.

“I think we should find something to knock the phone over with.” I said. Spike’s eyes darted around as a thought occurred to him.

“But what if someone without a watch went in?” Spike suggested.

“We need to find Sen.” I nodded. The two of us returned to the hall and back to the room that Alfred was in, seeing Sen had disappeared. “Alfred?” I asked. Alfred turned to me.

“Is something wrong? Did you find the tape?” Alfred asked.

“We did. But none of us can get it, Sen’s the only one who can.” I said. “And he’s not here.”

“He said something about checking the lower levels.” Alfred said reassuringly. Spike glanced at his watch.

“We don’t have time for this.” Spike said, scratching his head nervously.

“Well. We could always throw something at it.” I started.

“But what if it plays the message? We don’t know how it works do we?” Spike said.

“I could you know…” I started, pointing up to my horn. A speaker clicked on.

“No magic.” The Ragman added.

“Nnn. Fuck you.” I grumbled as I looked away.

“I didn’t make the rules.” The Ragman said before the speakers clicked off.

“Sure.” I sighed. “We need to find Sen then.”

“No… we just need a watch.” Spike started, turning to me and smiling.

My eyes widened and I smiled too. “I know right where one is.” I said.

“Go get it quick!” Spike said, rushing to the black taped doorway. I ran back to the room we had started in and rushed the chair Sen had sat in at the beginning. I saw the watch right where we left it, snatching it and hurrying back to Spike. “Thirty seconds.” He said.

“Then catch!” I said as I threw it at him. Spike caught it and spun to the door, tossing it into the room. The watch landed on the desk next to the phone and both of us stared silently into the room. A moment passed and a click was heard. My eyes widened fearfully as the thought that we had failed entered my mind. The gears in the tape started turning.

“Well if you’re hearing this, that means you beat my first puzzle, congratulations!” A voice from the recorder said.

I let out a small sigh of relief.

“Don’t get too relaxed though, now please gather everyone and return to the main room, where Iron’s body is.” The tape said before clicking off. Spike narrowed his eyes and stared at the tape.

“What?” I questioned.

“That’s a pre-recorded message. How did he know Iron was going to die? Did he plan it? Or was it recorded after?” Spike asked.

“I don’t know. But, our best option for now is just to listen… It’s either that or blow up a children’s hospital.” I said. Spike nodded and walked back to the main building. Speakers all over the floor clicked on.

“Please return to the beginning please.” The Ragman’s voice rang out. “Thank you.”

When we returned, I saw that Alfred and Sen were already there. Sen was helping Alfred into a chair before he sat down next to him. Silver and Bolt walked in shortly after. “So… you found it right? Did anything blow up?” Silver asked quickly.

“Look outside.” I said. Silver turned his head and stared out at the hospital.

“Oh.” Silver said quietly.

“Just sit down.” Bolt stated, pushing Silver into a chair and plopping down next to him.

“Is everyone here?” I questioned, looking around and noticing we were still missing Suno and Chey.

“I didn’t see them in the hall, or any of the rooms.” Silver said. Everyone turned to the hospital, seeing it was still alright.

I put my head in my hands and groaned, “They better get here soon…” I muttered angrily.

“You’re probably wondering where Suno and Chey are… Well so am I.” The Ragman said, clearing his throat.

“That’s great. Even you don’t know where they are.” I sighed.

“Which brings us to our next game. Find Suno and Chey.” The Ragman said as a click was heard. The end of the table shattered, wood exploding in every direction. Everyone covered their heads, quickly standing up.

“I’ll give you a ten second head start.” The Ragman laughed. All of us bolted out of the room and scattered into the hall. Spike turned to me.

“Okay, he has view of the south side of the building, just make sure you don’t get seen by any of the windows there.” Spike said sternly.

“Right I nodded. Avoid any windows on the side of the building.” I nodded.

“Also I might want to mention that the fire department will be notified in about ten minutes.” The Ragman said.

“God damn it! Where the hell could they have gone?” I questioned as I ran for the stairs, doing everything I could to stay out of sight of the windows.

“Why the fire department?” Silver asked curiously. Spike sniffed as the small hint of smoke was detectable.

“Because there’s a fire!” I said quickly. “We need to put it out and find the two of them!”

“Put it out with what? We’re in the top of an office building, not the side of a lake!” Silver panicked, falling to the floor. “Stop drop and roll!” He shouted, rolling down the hall back and forth.

“THERE IS A THING CALLED A BATHROOM!” I nearly screamed. “GOD DAMN IT! I CAN BARELY TAKE ANY MORE OF THIS STUPIDITY!”

“Sweetie listen to me.” Spike said, grabbing me and holding me against the wall.

“What?” I questioned.

“We are on the 47th floor. We don’t know how far the fire has spread, and we certainly don’t have the time to put out every floor. We just need to find Suno, got it?” Spike said quietly.

I stared at him for a moment before nodding. “Got it.” I said as I calmed down slightly. “My bet is that they’re trying to get out. So they’re going to be somewhere below us.”

There was a flushing sound from the bathroom. Suno casually walked out and looked at us. “What?” He questioned.

“Or not.” I said. Chey walked out behind him and stood guard once again.

“Thank you again Chey, I don’t know what I would have done without you.” Suno said as formally as possible.

“Zippers are tricky sir.” Chey nodded.

“Okay… Well we found them.” I said, looking over at Spike.

“Yeah… I expected that to be difficult.” Spike said, scratching his neck.

“Maybe it wasn’t planned…” I started. “Or it’s not over.”

“Great, you found them! I’m proud of you. What’s your prize…” The Ragman drifted off into thought.

“Stop stalling.” I stated.

“Oh right, everyone please gather into the hall.” The Ragman said. We stood there for a minute as everyone gathered around us, staying away from any windows.

“We’re here.” I said.

“Cool! Ready for the next step in our game?” The Ragman said joyfully.

“The one where we all get pulled out by firemen? Or will the building fall before then?” I asked sarcastically.

“I don’t know. Isn’t it exciting?” The voice laughed.

“No.” I said dryly.

“Anyway… I’ll let you all choose a room to keep away from the smoke.” The Ragman said. Everyone glanced around the hall, finding a room with no windows and was decently sized. We all walked in and closed the door. Bolt took off his uniform and stuffed it under the door. “Good, now sit down while I think.” The voice said, trailing off.

“This is getting really old.” I sighed as I leaned back against a wall.

“I’d watch out, those walls might be…” The Ragman started. I yelped as my back touched it and burned. I jumped away from the wall.

“Nn…” I grumbled quietly as I gently rubbed my back.

“You okay?” Spike asked, rushing over to me and checking my back.

“I’m fi…” I trailed off as a thought hit me. “Spike.” I whispered as quietly as I could.

“Yeah, what is it?” Spike asked.

“How would he have known I was going to lean against a wall if he can’t see us?” I asked in the same whisper. Spike’s eyes widened slightly and he glanced around the room. Suno and Chey were casually talking as Bolt made sure no smoke could get in. Silver nervously sat in one of the chairs, his hands in his lap. Alfred was sitting, taking a nap as Sen played with some of the things on the table.

“I think I know at least two people we can trust in here.” I whispered, shooting a glance towards Suno and Chey.

“Why them?” Spike asked curiously.

“The Ragman didn’t know where they were since no one else did either.” I started.

“True…” Spike nodded. “So that leaves Silver, Bolt, or Alfred.”

“No… Alfred’s asleep.” I said. “And Bolt’s been occupied since we entered.” I continued.

Spike stared silently at Silver, who was staring at the two of us.

“I have a…” My face blanked as a new realization slowly dawned on me. “Spike…” I said quietly. “I need you to think about a few things for me.”

“Go for it.” Spike said, turning back to me and leaning in.

“Who conveniently disappeared when we needed him?” I asked quietly. Spike turned to Sen.

“He’s just a kid.” Spike said quietly.

“Yeah. And he also had that extremely delayed reaction when you touched his eye.” I continued. “And he didn’t put on a watch. Yes I know what The Ragman said, but why didn’t he even have it in his hand when the rest of us got ours out?” I stared intently at Spike.

“Well…” Spike said, the gears in his head turning as he thought.

“Why should we be trusting the fact that he’s ‘just a kid’? I’d think that’d be the perfect cover.” I finished.

“So, what do we do?” Spike asked. I stared blankly at him.

“Wh…” I started to mumble for a second. “You’re… serious right?”

“About what?” Spike tilted his head.

“Wanting a plan from me.” I said quietly.

“And what’s wrong with that? You’re smart… Too smart. Maybe you’re with the Ragman.” Spike joked.

I laughed quietly. “Fine… Fine. I think we should just play along for a little longer. I have my doubts anyone else has been paying attention as much as we have… so we’re on our own.” I whispered.

“Yeah, we shouldn’t tell anyone.” Silver whispered. The two of us practically fell over as our head snapped to Silver, who was standing right next to us.

“Where did you come from?” I questioned. Silver stared at me for a moment before pointing to the seat he was previously in. “Why did you feel the need to listen in on our conversation?” I questioned.

“Because he’s smart?” Bolt said. I turned and saw he was still fiddling with the door, not even looking at the three of us.

“Point taken.” I sighed.

“Do any of you by chance happen to have something to drink?” Suno called.

“No.” I said.

“Well if we’re going to do something we should do it now.” Spike said. Silver turned and charged at Sen. Sen’s eyes widened and he fell to the floor. Silver’s attempt to tackle Sen sent himself into the wall.

“Nnrf… What’s going on?” Alfred grumbled, yawning and looking down at Silver.

“What are you doing?” Suno questioned.

“He’s working with the Ragman!” Silver said, pointing at Sen. Sen hid under the table and avoided Silver.

“That’s my grandson!” Alfred growled, standing up and looking as if he was about to throw a punch.

“Calm down old timer.” Chey said calmly, approaching Alfred.

“I am still spry enough to kick your butt!” Alfred declared.

“This isn’t going to get us anywhere!” I shouted, “Everyone CALM down NOW!”

“Yeah, what she said.” The Ragman’s voice rang out. “Or don’t, either way works.”

My eye twitched.

“For all we know, you could be the one working for him!” Alfred stated, poking Chey’s chest.

“Leave my pecs out of this.” Chey stated.

“Don’t get any blood on my suit please.” Suno asked.

“I’m sick of people.” I grumbled quietly. I felt a tugging on my pant leg, and looked down to see Sen staring up at me in a prone position. I sighed and despite my reluctance, helped him up. Sen smiled and hugged me. I sighed quietly again and glanced to Spike. Spike shrugged and glanced back to the others feuding. “No one ever listens anymore.” I said quietly.

“Okay I’ve had enough.” Bolt said, standing up and approaching the others.

“Are you here to compare dick sizes t-” Chey was cut off as Bolt lifted him up and threw him into the wall.

“Nothing’s going to stop them now.” I muttered. I looked down at Sen and it looked like he was staring at something. I looked up and couldn’t find what had his attention. I kneeled down and waved a hand in front of his face, not getting any response. “Hello?” I asked. Sen jumped, blinking once and snapping his head up to me. “You alright?”

Sen nodded and smiled again. There was a slight bit of static heard from Spike’s coat. Spike quickly opened his coat and pulled out a small transmitter. “Bulk? That you?” He said quickly.

“Spike? Where are you?” Bulk’s staticy voice rang out quietly.

“We’re in an office building in midtown at the 47th floor.” Spike said quietly.

“You want me to come get you?” Bulk asked.

“No.” Spike said bluntly.

I glanced at Spike for a moment before returning my gaze back down to Sen. Sen was aware of the conversation, seeming focused on Spike. “There’s a children’s hospital across the street. I want you to evacuate it immediately.” Spike said into the small device. Sen simply smiled and walked back over to Alfred, clinging gently to him.

“What’s next then.” I said loudly.

“Then I uh… I guess I’ll get you.” Bulk said uncertainly.

“No you won’t.” I said.

“After you evacuate the hospital I want you to check the roof… Bring a gun.” Spike said.

“Roger that.” Bulk said as the transmitter clicked off.

“I think the fire is getting close.” Suno pointed out, feeling one of the walls and yanking his hand back. “Yes, yes it is.”

“For a game that we can ‘win’ you’re sure good at trying to kill all of us with something we can’t stop.” I commented.

“You’re so boring. I thought you’d think out of the box, that’s why I chose you lot.” The Ragman’s voice rang out.

“I’m sure.” I nodded. “Well you’ve trapped us on a high floor with a fire right below us. What are we supposed to do?”

“Well if I told you that, then it wouldn’t be a game would it? No tutorials!” The Ragman laughed.

“It’d be helpful if everyone would stop acting like children and man the fuck up.” I stated, glaring at everyone in the room. Sen simply giggled at the statement. I turned to Spike and stared at him. Spike reached into his pocket and pulled out a revolver, shooting one bullet into the ceiling.

“EVERYONE SHUT UP AND SIT DOWN!” Spike shouted. Everyone including me froze and took a seat in the many chairs.

“Oh a gun! I never expected that from the bounty hunter.” The voice mused.

“I don’t know how you’re seeing us, but there are no cameras in this room. One of you dumbasses has something on you, so speak up.” Spike stated, pointing the weapon at the lot. Sen hid behind Alfred, Chey stepping between Spike and Suno.

“Thank you Chey.” Suno said.

“Anytime boss.” Chey nodded.

“Yes… a body can stop a loaded gun.” I sighed, putting my head in my hands. My eyes shifted back to Sen and I saw he was staring at me. Sen pointed to the corner of the room, where a ventilation shaft was seen. That’s new.” I said.

“What?” Spike asked. I pointed to the vent and Spike simply blinked. “Oh.”

“Though chances are with the fire nearby all metal’s going to be hot.” I said.

“It should be… But don’t you think it’s strange that there’s no smoke pouring in from it?” Spike added.

“Yeah I do…” I nodded slowly. “It’s almost like it either leads outside or…” I started.

“Good show Chey!” Suno cheered as Chey spotted the vent and attempted to pry it open.

I glanced to Spike to see if he caught my train of thought. Spike stared up at the vent silently. “None of this makes any sense.” Spike said.

“Yeah… I’d expect we’d hear sirens by now.” I nodded.

“So why are the walls hot?” Spike questioned, grabbing the door handle.

“Wait!” Bolt shouted. Spike yanked the door open and stepped out. The hall was absolutely silent, and there was no smoke.

“It was just a little play.” I said as I followed him out.

“Finally!” The Ragman sighed. “Man you people are slow.”

“No it’s just this is all stupid.” I stated.

“To you maybe. But this is absolutely hilarious! Watching you run around in circles, thinking of a way out of the maze that doesn’t exist.” The voice laughed.

“I’m beginning to wonder just how much of the other things you’ve told us are true.” I said slowly.

“Spike?” Bulk’s voice called out from the transmitter. I looked over at Spike.

“Are you going to answer him?” I asked.

“The hospital you wanted me to check… It’s empty.” Bulk said. Sen covered his mouth, giggling absurdly.

“i’m sick of all of this.” I stated as I turned to Sen and glared angrily at him.

“There’s a sniper rifle on top of the building, but…” Bulk started.

“No one there.” I finished.

“Not just that but… It looks strange. There’s some kind of machinery on it.” Bulk said. Sen blinked once. “And now it’s turning…”

“Destroy it.” I stated calmly.

“Damn!” Bulk shouted as several clicks were heard. I slowly walked towards Sen. Sen’s smile faded slowly. Alfred stood up and stepped in front of him.

“Get out of my way. I’m done with his little games.” I stated. Everyone turned to Alfred and Sen.

“Oh well. It was fun.” Alfred sighed.

“So you are with the Ragman?” Bolt questioned.

“No you idiot. He IS the Ragman.” Alfred said, glancing back at Sen. Sen simply smiled and waved.

“And you let him do this? To how many people?” I asked.

“Well It’s not as if I have a choice.” Alfred smiled.

“Oh really?” I asked. “Why is that?”

Alfred looked back at Sen, who nodded. Alfred turned back to me and stared for a moment. “I’m sorry.” He said. My eyes narrowed as I stared at him.

“For what.” I said slowly. Before I knew what hit me, Alfred’s hand was around my throat, lifting me up with a strength that I never would have expected from him. Sen bolted away and into the vents. My horn lit up and slammed Alfred to the ground. I bolted after Sen and my horn again lit up. As I crawled in, a hand grabbed my foot and yanked me out. Spike tackled Alfred into the wall and held him tightly. A large burst of green fire spit out and seared the elder pony’s face.

“STOP IT!” I shouted as my magic forced Spike into the air and off of Alfred. When the flame cleared, I saw that large portions of Alfred’s face was burned off, and it was… metallic underneath.

“Oh darn.” Alfred sighed. I let Spike down only to pick up Alfred and throw him even harder into another wall.

“Bulk if you can hear me make sure NO ONE leaves this building alive until I say so!” I ordered.

“Sorta pinned down at the moment!” Bulk stated, more clicks heard over the transmitter.

“Spike you think you can destroy the rifle?” I questioned, glancing over at him.

“Easier said than done.” Spike started. He turned in time to see Bolt get tossed at him, sending them both to the floor. Chey headbutted Alfred, freezing in a daze immediately as the sound of metal clanked through the room. Alfred chuckled and punched Chey, sending him to the floor with a groan.

I stared at Alfred for a few moments before I again seized him with my magic and threw him down the hallway. “All of you take care of Alfred I’m going after Sen.” I stated as I climbed into the vent and crawled through it. I heard the faint echoing of metal as someone crawled away, a quiet giggling heard. I used my magic to muffle my own movements as much as I could manage as I crawled after the sounds. I followed it up to the roof, hopping out and looking around. I saw Sen sitting on the edge of the building, kicking his feet back and forth off the edge. He turned to me and smiled, waving slowly. I glared angrily at him and remained where I was. Sen motioned me over. I slowly walked over my magic at the ready if anything happened. Sen showed me a small square box and handed it to me.

“What is this?” I asked, as I glanced between the box and him. He pressed a button and a gentle static was heard from the box.

“Hi.” A familiar voice rang from the box.

“Hi.” I said slowly.

“I can’t talk normally. Sorry.” The box said.

“Why did you do this?” I asked cutting straight to the point.

“Will you be my girlfriend?” The box asked.

“Wh… Why should I after everything you’ve done?” I questioned.

“Because you’re pretty. And I like you. And you’re smart.” The box said. I was simply unable to get used to THAT voice talking for the teenager in front of me.

“Flattery won’t go anywhere after you tried to kill two of my friends today.” I said.

“If I wanted them dead, do you think they would be here?” The box said, Sen rolled his eyes.

“That doesn’t excuse the fact that what you did. You lied and that gives me more than enough reason to not want to be your girlfriend. Why should I trust you after all the lying you did? You haven’t given me any reason nor want to.” I stated. “Let alone out right murdering someone.”

“He was a sexist and a bad man. All of you are. I’ve done my research.” The box stated firmly.

“What?” I questioned, a little more curiosity entering my voice.

“Suno is the head of a bureaucratic, and may I say very large company on this planet. He steals from the poor and middle class… He forces those who don’t have an education or any talent to work for him. And Chey? He’s a convict. Suno kept him out of jail as a bodyguard because they have a history together.” The box continued.

“Okay.” I said slowly. “Bolt and Silver?”

“What needs to be said about Bolt that you don’t know? Oh right… He’s a murderer. A SOLDIER. He kills for fun because the government says it’s for a good cause, long live our GLORIOUS nation!” The box said in a more annoyed tone.

“So we just shouldn’t have soldiers then?” I questioned, raising an eyebrow.

“You don’t need soldiers if there is peace… But if there’s peace, then there’s no soldiers. And if there’s soldiers… The government can’t handle that. You want you know why?” The box asked.

“Why.” I said.

“Because the companies own the government. And if there aren’t people dying, paying for funeral services, paying for medicine and artificial limbs… They aren’t making money. And that isn’t acceptable.” The box said.

“People aren’t indestructible or immortal. We aren’t perfect either.” I stated.

“But we could be.” The box said as Sen hopped back onto the roof and walked up to me, motioning me to kneel down.

“No.” I said bluntly. Sen frowned, tugging on my shirt. “I’m not moving.” I said in a firmer tone.

“I want to show you something.” The box said.

I grumbled and reluctantly kneeled down. Sen opened his eyes wide I saw something in them flicker. “What the…” I started. The white and pupils disappeared, replacing with what looked like a camera. I could see Bulk in his eyes, along with the barrel of a sniper rifle. I grimaced as I watched. “Yes… I already figured out that you can see through the rifle.” I muttered.

“Not just the rifle.” The box said. His eyes changed to a street view, now looking through a security camera. I could see people and ships moving about the busy city.

“So… you’re connected to the entire city.” I started.

“And with connection… You have power.” Sen said. There was a buzzing as the power to the entire city flickered several times before returning to normal.

“And just because you have power means you should abuse it?” I questioned.

“I’m trying to make you understand the good I can do. I want you to help me.” The box said as Sen grabbed my hand.

“So it’s alright for you to kill but when others do it’s wrong.” I stated. “It’s wrong for others to use their power outside of your view but instead of actually helping people you want to kill.”

“Only those that deserve death.” The box said casually.

“And what give you the right to judge a life for its’ worth? What gives ANYONE that power?” I questioned angrily.

“That power is already here. I’m just the one using it for the right cause.” The box said.

“No. No you aren’t.” I stated as I yanked my hand back and stood up. “You think of your power as a game. You’ve already proved that. You don’t care for anyone unless they can help you, do you?”

“DON’T JUDGE ME!” The box screamed, catching me off guard. Sen looked absolutely angry. A click was heard and a bullet whizzed past my head.

I fell to the ground and stared up at Sen. “Then… stop judging everyone else.” I said shakily.

“I’ve paid for this. I made my way here, I deserve this power! Everything else was taken from me… It’s people like your friend Spike that took my parents from me.” The box said, going absolutely silent.

“You can’t ever change the past. But what you’re doing is the wrong thing. You’re tormenting others and making them suffer… When you should be helping the people they’ve forced to suffer. Good doesn’t come from suffering, it comes from healing.” I said quietly. There was a small whirring around me. Slowly, I saw the two fighters that acted as Icarus’ wings hover up from the edge and aim their guns at Sen. I slowly stood up. “The only thing we have left is the future. And the only way to it is to forgive and move on, never forget the past though it made you and shaped you. Just like we can shape the other’s futures with a single action.” I said as I stood in front of Sen and faced both the fighters. There was a long pause before Sen spoke again.

“You’re different.” The box said.

“And I’m proud I’m different. It’s what makes me, me.” I said with a small laugh. Sen smiled and hugged me gently. I smiled a little and patted his hands. I looked back up at the fighters and waited calmly for them to do something other then hover uselessly.

“Hey… Anyone there?” Bulk’s voice rang out from inside my shirt.

“Yeah. And you guys need to stop hiding things on me or in my clothes.” I said.

“Okay I got some good news and some bad news.” Bulk said.

“Go ahead.” I said.

“Good news, the sniper has stopped shooting at me.” Bulk continued.

“The bad news?” I asked.

“The fighters on Icarus have launched by themselves.” Bulk said. Sen giggled quietly.

I looked back at Sen and stared silently at him. One of the fighters landed and Sen climbed aboard, waving at me.

“Where are you going?” I questioned. Sen threw the box at me as the door closed and I caught it.

“My city, I can go where I want.” The box said.

I sighed. “Nothing I said did anything did it?” I questioned.

“Nope! But it was fun talking. Can we still be friends?” The box asked.

I remained silent as I turned away and my horn lit up. “Please?” The box said in a softer, almost pleading tone.

“Can you stop being something you aren’t?” I questioned. “Can you try helping instead of harming?”

“You know…” The box started.

I silently stared at the box. “Suno is going to be very unhappy.” It said.

“Why?” I questioned.

“Well… He’s going to probably have a fit once he realizes all the money in his company was just donated to every children’s hospital on the planet.” The box said.

“Yes. We can be friends. Just keep up the good work.” I laughed. A giggling was heard over the box as the fighters hovered higher and flew away.

“Those are MY fighters!” Bulks voice rang out angrily.

“I’m sure we can get new ones. Eventually.” I chuckled. There was a small grinding as the door to the rooftop stairwell tore itself open. Alfred walked out, Spike and Bolt clinging tightly to him.

“We got him, don’t worry!” Bolt grunted. Alfred smiled at me and bowed slowly.

“Get off of him you two. It’s over.” I sighed, smiling back at Alfred. The other fighter that was previously unused returned and opened. Spike and Bolt let go of Alfred as he climbed into it. “If we meet again do NOT choke me again. Next time it won’t be such a nice ‘let down’.” I said.

“Well to be fair, I was trying to kill you.” Alfred laughed as the door shut and the fighter lifted off.

“And to be fair I could have turned you into a pile of rubble at the bottom of the he’s gone isn’t he?.” I said.

“Yep.” Spike nodded. I sighed.

“Well…” I said.

“You wanna get something to eat?” Spike asked.

“Yes. I do.” I laughed as I walked over to him, I slipped the box I was holding into the bag I had on my hip. “You’re paying right?” I said.

“That’s a good answer, I’ll take it.” Spike nodded.

“Good. Let’s go somewhere good then.” I said. After Spike and I returned to the ship, we noticed that the wings had returned… And they looked polished and shiny. I smiled. “I need to use the bathroom.” I said as I walked away from Spike. When I passed my room, I saw something gleaming inside. When I entered, I saw a sniper rifle sitting on my bed.

“Spying on me are you?” I laughed as I sat down beside the gun and pulled the box out of my bag.

“What makes you say that?” The box rang.

“Well you left a sniper rifle in my room.” I started.

“Well I couldn’t leave it on that roof now could I? Think of it as a gift… You’re leaving aren’t you?” The box said quietly.

“Yeah. We are… Don’t worry though. I’m going to make sure we come back. I’m not one for leaving my friends behind forever.” I smiled as I looked into the scope. “You’re no exception to that rule.”

“So does that mean I get a kiss?” The box laughed.

“Well does having a camera in my room mean you’re going to watch me dress and strip?” I laughed. There was a long, looong moment of silence.

“No.” The box said.

“Oh I’ll make sure you don’t get the chance.” I chuckled as I covered the scope with a pillow.

“I can only use it so far. Once you leave the planet you’ll be safe… I promise.” The box said.

“Oh. I was hoping I’d get to talk to you face to… well scope sometimes. I just don’t want you watching me while I’m naked.” I said.

“I’d like that. And I promise… no more killing.” The box said with absolute sincerity. My hand moved the pillow from the scope.

“Mm.” I hummed, I pulled my shirt up so my bra was revealed and I uncovered the scope, and used my magic to aim it right up at me. There was no response. “That’s what I thought.” I chuckled as I lowered my shirt again. I stuck my tongue out teasingly. “I hope you enjoyed it because that’s just about all anyone’s gotten to see.”

There was again no response. The box clicked and both it and the sniper seemed to power down.

“Oh so that’s how it’s going to be.” I pouted as I picked them both up and set them down on the drawer in my room. “Fine.” As I sat back down I just started laughing.

“I think you broke him.” Spike whispered into the room from the doorway.

“God damn it! I said stop sneaking up on me!” I nearly shouted as I again glared at Spike. Spike walked in and plopped down on the bed. “What do you want?” I asked.

“Can’t I just say hi to my crew from time to time?” Spike questioned.

“Mm. No. But still you were spying on me.” I said as I scooted beside him.

“Yeah… Sorry.” Spike apologised.

“You’re making it hard to dislike you, you know that right?” I said jokingly as I smiled at him. Spike just stared at the floor without a word. “Hey. It’s fine.” I said reassuringly as I grabbed his hand and squeezed it.

“It’s not that...” Spike said. I smiled a little more.

“Oh?” I hummed.

“I could care less if I saw your boobs.” Spike chuckled.

“Well what about this?” I asked softly as I kissed his cheek. Spike blinked a few times, his face turning a color I’ve never seen it turn before. I laughed a little. “You’re cute.” I smiled.

“I don’t want you to come on anymore missions.” Spike said bluntly.

“What… Why not?” I questioned. Spike sat silently, refusing to look at me. “Spike. Answer me. Why am I not wanted on missions anymore?”

“Because I don’t know what I’d do if anything happened to you.” Spike said, looking up at me. I saw his eyes seemed almost glossy, sad.

“Then you can’t go on anymore either.” I said quietly. Spike’s stare turned to more surprised.

“Sweetie?” Spike said slowly. I glanced over at my dresser and slowly stood up and motioned for Spike to follow as I walked out of the room. I lead him down to the currently unoccupied cargo hold and sat down on a crate. I patted the spot beside me and looked up at Spike. Spike sat down beside me, never taking his eyes off mine.

“You’re worried about me… and I’m more worried about you.” I said quietly. “You haven’t coddled me, you’ve only protected me when I wasn’t able to do it myself. No one’s done that for me. The only reason Bulk offered me a ride in the first place was because stallions were eyeing me up. But every time I’ve gone somewhere with you, you’ve held your own and let me alone. I like that… I like being able to show people I’m not weak and helpless.” I continued as I scooted right against him and hugged him tightly.

“Heh… You’re not useless. And you’re anything but weak.” Spike smiled, returning the warm embrace.

“Why is it that only you saw that right away?” I asked, more to myself then to him. “And… Spike…” I said quietly.

“Yeah?” He said.

“I’m sorry I’ve been teasing you constantly.” I said. “And, well I’m sure you’ve figured it out by now.”

“I’m not an idiot… But just in case, you should tell me.” Spike joked. For the first time since I got here I giggled. I smiled widely up at him and gently placed my hand to his cheek. I slowly leaned up and planted a small kiss right on his lips.

“That.” I said quietly as I pulled back and looked away, I could feel my face start to burn.

“Sweetie…” Spike started. I slowly turned back to him and opened my mouth to speak when his attached to it. I shivered and squeezed him closer as I held myself in the kiss. Our lips were together for what seemed like days before we pulled away and simply stared at each other.

“Wow…” I said quietly.

“I know… You’re really soft.” Spike said. My eyes slowly moved down and I saw he had a hand on my breast. I pulled his hand off.

“Ask first.” I stated as I glared at him. The two of us turned and saw Owlick peeking at us, giving Spike two thumbs up. Spike immediately just started to laugh.

I just shook my head and sighed. “Owlick…” I started. I felt Spike’s hand again, but this time it was squeezing mine. I glanced back to Spike and smiled a little. Spike’s face twisted up slightly as a thought obviously hit him. “What?” I asked.

“What happened to Silver?” Spike asked curiously.

“What?” I questioned, taken completely off guard by the random question.

“Well… When you went after Sen, and we were left with Alfred… Silver just disappeared. What happened to him?” Spike asked.

“I don’t know.” I said. “I didn’t see him on the roof…”

Spike scratched his head. “It’s probably nothing…” He reassured. A moment passed before he looked at me again. “So about that kiss.”

“You want another kiss right after you groped my breast?” I asked, raising an eyebrow.

“I didn’t hear a no.” Spike grinned. I just stared at him. “I mean of course not, that was a horrible thing to do that I won’t do again.” He corrected.

“Just shut up.” I sighed as I kissed him again.

ELSEWHERE:

“So they’re still on the planet?” A female voice hummed.

“Yes, but not for much longer.” The smaller stallion said. “What should we do?”

“Just keep following them… Update me if you see anything interesting.” The female said. The stallion nodded and turned, walking away from the bridge. “Oh… And good work Silver.”

The stallion stopped and turned back to her. “Please… Call me Triton.”

Episode IV: Sphere

“So what are we doing?” I asked, glancing out at the white space we were traveling through.

“Well we have a mission that should be less exciting. We’re picking up some scientist to examine a strange system.” Spike said.

“Mmm you never know.” I chuckled.

“We’re almost there.” Bulk called down to us.

“Let’s get ready then.” I sighed as I stood up. “No matter how boring it is a mission’s a mission.”

The whiteness faded to the black space as normal, and a planet came into view. It looked uninhabited, mostly large forests and the such. The only noticeable sign of life was the small station orbiting the green planet.

“That’s where we’re heading?” I asked.

“Mmhm.” Spike nodded, heading to the airlock as Icarus grew slowly closer to the station. Our ship docked, several clamps holding our ship in place as the airlock attached to theirs. I entered the airlock and stood beside Spike. The door behind us shut as it pressurized. Moments later the second set of doors opened and we were greeted by a white hallway with several doors. The entire place seemed absolutely spotless.

“Oh this should be fun.” I chuckled. A speaker clicked on.

“You can head up to the observatory at any time.” A soft female voice rang.

“I guess that’s where we’re supposed to go.” I said as I pulled Spike along with me. When we entered what we assumed was the observatory, it was a large room that was well decorated, several terminals and devices lined up, along with a very large window looking out onto the planet below. “Where is everyone?” I asked looking back to Spike. “You did say we were escorting scientists and not a ship.”

“Incorrect.” The voice from earlier said. We turned and saw a purple unicorn in a white lab coat. She approached us and smiled, extending her hand. “I’m Twilight Sparkle.”

“Okay… I’m Sweetie Belle.” I said as I shook her hand.

“Spike.” Spike said, still looking around the clean ship.

“Well your information might have been slightly off.” Twilight said apologetically, returning to the window and looking at the planet.

“Okay. That’s not too bad then.” I shrugged.

“So what are we doing?” Spike asked, approaching the window with me.

“Observation and experimentation.” Twilight said.

“On the planet?” I asked.

“No no no.” Twilight shook her head.

“Okay then. On what?” I asked. Twilight’s horn lit up and the ship shook slightly as it started to turn, the planet slowly disappearing out of frame. The window stopped moving as the sun came into view. “On a star.” I said almost in disbelief.

“A star that doesn’t make sense.” Twilight said, turning to us with an almost excited smile.

“How doesn’t it make sense?” I asked.

“The heat shielding is off… So why aren’t we burning to a crisp right now?” Twilight asked, looking directly at the sun without any problems.

“That’s a great question… I don’t know.” I said.

“Now you see… If we were on the planet, it would be no different. Only one thing.” Twilight continued.

“What’s the one thing?” I asked.

“The reason it isn’t hurting our eyes or burning us is because there are no UV rays… But there are.” Twilight continued, her smile growing. I just stared at her. “You see, the computer has scanned the light that the star is emitting, and it is indeed sending out UV rays, but only to the vegetation and plants on the planet. It is strictly ignoring us.” Twilight said.

“How could a star being ignoring anything? It’s just superheated gases with a nuclear core.” I questioned.

“Not entirely. A star is like what you said, but as if millions and millions of nuclear explosions are going off all across it. It doesn’t discriminate where the light goes, or the harmful UV rays… But something is redirecting the harmful and possibly deadly parts of the light away from any life, except of course… The life that needs it.” Twilight said, pointing to a plant near the edge of the window.

“And what could do that?” I asked.

“I have absolutely no idea!” Twilight squealed happily.

“Mm this is going to be really fun…” I mumbled.

“Now… I didn’t just come to throw you into a sun.” Twilight started.

“Why would you say that?” I asked, simply staring at her. There was a long pause from Twilight.

“So the planet below…” Twilight continued.

“Okay.” I said. “Just go on.”

“I have been getting several strange readings. The light seems to be avoiding one spot in specific.” Twilight said as the station slowly turned back towards the planet.

“And what spot is that?” I asked. Twilight pointed to the white tip of the planet.

“The north pole.” Twilight said.

“That’s more then a little strange.” I said. “And you want to go down and see why.”

“Yes, which is why I requested the support of you two.” Twilight nodded.

“Okay.” I started. Spike wandered back to the entrance to the observatory.

“So we going or what?” Spike questioned.

“Just one moment.” Twilight said quickly, running out of the room and disappearing into another.

“Am I the only one who’s feeling like she knows more then she’s letting on?” I asked, looking to Spike.

“Nope.” Spike shrugged. “Not our job to know, it’s our job to help her.”

“Yeah. I know.” I sighed with a small nod. “Let’s do this then.”

Twilight returned wearing a large white fur coat that covered practically her whole body (except for her eyes, which were covered with a large pair of goggles). “Rphdy!” Twilight said. Spike stared at her for a minute before sighing and heading back onto his ship. Twilight and I followed him back onto Icarus as the airlock closed behind us. The ship detached and we entered one of the small transports within the cargo hold. Spike strapped himself into the pilot’s seat and glanced back to us.

“Get strapped in, we’re about to enter atmosphere.” Spike said, not wasting any time as he lifted off from the hanger. Twilight dropped all her bags and bolted to one of the seats. I went to one and quickly strapped myself down. The ship shook lightly as the darkness of space slowly faded to an almost green ocean as the sky surrounded us. I laid back against the chair and sighed. The turbulence slowed to a stop and Spike sighed.

“Ohhh… I’ve never been this far north. I didn’t know the skies were green here!” Twilight said, mesmerized by the sight out the windows. I still couldn’t see the ground as we were still above the clouds.

“Yes. It’s wonderful.” I said.

“We’re about to pass through the clouds, prepare to get a little wet. I know that’s no problem for Sweetie.” Spike joked. I silently glared at Spike.

“If you weren’t flying this ship…” I started.

“I was just…” Spike started, being cut off as the ship was rattled violently.

“What’s going on?” I questioned frantically.

“I don’t know… There’s something in the clouds.” Spike groaned, attempting to stabilize the ship.

“Is it possible there’s an ice build up in them?” I asked.

“Possibly. It is the coldest part of the planet.” Twilight nodded, seeming entranced by the blur of effects outside the window. The ship shook once more, this time even more than before.

“Well we aren’t going to get down safely if the ice rips our engines apart!” I stated.

“Ice wouldn’t do this.” Spike called back. Twilight’s expression changed to surprise, her eyes never leaving the window.

“Then what’s doing it?” I questioned. The ship’s power just shut down, leaving them in darkness except for the light from the windows. “That’s… not normal.” I started.

“We’re not moving.” Spike said.

“That’s not possible.” I stated. “Unless something’s holding us up.”

A low groan broke the gentle silence, sounding almost like a whale. Spike turned to me, his eyes wide with uncertainty.

“What the hell…” I mumbled, the same uncertainty entering me.

“Something is LIVING in the ice storms! Fascinating!” Twilight said, her face pressed against the window and her eyes scanning the storm clouds we were within.

“Yes. Something living in the storm that could kill us is fascinating.” I grumbled.

“Well we’re not going anywhere.” Spike sighed, unstrapping himself and moving to the seat beside me.

“Yep.” I sighed as I laid my head on his shoulder. “This is just the greatest day ever.”

Twilight was unloading her back, setting up equipment around the transport, giving a glance to the window occasionally.

“At least one of us is actually enjoying being trapped in a tin can.” I said, rolling my eyes. Spike tightened an arm around me and kissed my cheek. “Mm I was wrong.” I laughed quietly as I hugged him tightly.

“Fascinating…” Twilight continued, reading some sciency mumbo-jumbo off a scanner.

“Yes, yes you are.” Spike said softly, pressing his muzzle into my neck. I sighed quietly and nuzzled my own face into his neck.

“So are you.” I whispered, squeezing him a little more. Twilight ran to the ship entrance and seemed to be searching for something. “What are you looking for?” I asked as I looked over at her.

“The button that opens the ramp.” Twilight said.

“We’re thousands of feet up!” Spike shouted.

“There’s a damn storm just outside of the ship!” I added, “You are NOT opening the ramp, that’s pure suicide for all of us!”

Twilight’s eyes locked onto the control panel to the left of the ramp. “We didn’t accept to escort you just so we could die because you decided it was a SMART idea to open the ramp.” I stated as I glared at her. “And if you open that how the hell are you going to get any information back to your ship or anyone else if we all die?”

“We’re not going to die.” Twilight reassured, approaching the panel and pressing random buttons.

“Stop it.” Spike said quickly.

“You don’t even know what you’re doing!” I said. Spike yanked me to the cockpit and pressed a button, causing a door to lock us inside. We could see out the small glass pane at the top, watching Twilight. I glanced at Spike, “As much as I don’t want to be out there with her right now we DID accept the mission to make sure she remains safe.” I said a little reluctantly. There was a small grinding as the ramp lowered. The outside slowly looked at a raging blizzard amidst a sea of black clouds that were not only above us, but looking almost like a floor below the ramp.

“She’s… not actually going to leave the ship is she?” I asked a little hesitantly. “I mean… she’s a scientist… that means she’s not stupid enough to do that right?”

“I’m sure she doesn’t want to fall thousands of feet.” Spike nodded slowly.

“Yeah but she opened the entire ship up to a blizzard.” I said. “And she was pretty sure that was the best idea ever.”

Twilight sat down at the edge, slowly sticking a foot into the clouds.

“And she’s trying to commit suicide.” I grumbled. “We can’t let her do that.”

Spike opened the door and marched out towards her. The moment the door opened a large gust of icy wind hit us. I followed him out. I saw the tiniest of a smile on Twilight’s face before she lept out of the ship. I gasped, my magic about to spark to life… But she stopped, as if standing on something. “I knew it!” Twilight cheered, up to her waist in the clouds but still standing regardless.

“Oh my god.” I said. Spike just stared in disbelief at the sight. Twilight hopped up and down, as if testing the strength of what she was standing on. “What are you doing? What if it give way under you?” I questioned quickly.

“It’s holding this entire ship up, I’m sure it can manage me.” Twilight dismissed, starting to walk out into the foggy black storm. I glanced to Spike and motioned that we needed to follow her. Spike opened one of the lockers in the corner and pulled out two suits that looked designed for this kind of weather. I grabbed one from him and put it on before I shakily walked out onto the cloud. My feet stepped onto a rather firm, but still flexible surface. What the hell?

Spike hopped down beside me and quickly strode after Twilight. I followed right behind him and glanced around at the white abyss around us. “Well I gotta admit, I’m kinda curious now.” Spike said, seeming genuinely interested in why we were able to walk here.

“So am I.” I said. “But I’m still a little worried that we aren’t alone in here.”

The loud but somehow calming wail from earlier echoed through the skies.

“Yeah…” I mumbled. “We aren’t alone.”

Twilight had something in her hand, looking intently down at a device.

“What’s that?” I asked, taking the chance to take my mind off of the noise we had heard.

“Interesting…” Twilight said, gazing in awe up at the skies.

“We’re never going to get any answers out of you.” I sighed.

“It’s connected to all the equipment I set up in the ship, which records and does all the things I need.” Twilight said.

“That’s good.” I said. “So what did you find that was interesting other than EVERYTHING in this damn cloud.”

“I heard some strange noises over the scanners on the station, but I wanted to come down to be sure it wasn’t just my machinery. And It wasn’t! Something is alive and within the clouds!” Twilight said with more awe in her voice.

“That’s great, I love being bait.” Spike chuckled.

“Don’t we all.” I joked.

“Maybe if we find the source of this storm, we’ll find some answers.” Twilight suggested. Spike approached me and hoisted me over his shoulders, continuing to walk beside Twilight.

“Um thanks.” I said staring down at Spike. My legs dangled over the front, my heels just in front of his stomach. His hands held my feet, squeezing them as tenderly as he could through the boots I was wearing. I smiled and hugged the top of his head as best I could through the thick material of the parka he had on.

“Well this is certainly interesting.” Twilight said aloud.

“What is?” Spike asked.

“There seem to be vibrations from the ‘ground’ we are standing on. Just barely noticeable.” Twilight continued, her eyes focused on her device.

“My guess is we should follow them to the epicenter and whatever is making them will be there.” I said. It might just have been my imagination but… It looked like something moved off in the distance. “I think I just saw something.” I said quietly.

“Like what?” Spike asked, looking up at me.

“I… I don’t know.” I said, narrowing my eyes and looking into the blinding abyss. There was a small rumbling that made both Twilight and Spike stop. “I think it’s noticed us though.”

The blizzard grew quiet, and the snow stopped, allowing us to see a little more into the calming storm.

“Um…” I started.

“I don’t know.” Spike said. There was a light hissing sound from behind me. I couldn’t see due to the hood I was wearing, but whatever it was was growing closer.

“We should move. Now!” I said quickly.

“Wait!” Twilight started, turning to face us. She immediately seemed entranced by something behind us. “Oh my goodness.”

“What?” I asked. Twilight made a circular motion. Spike nodded slowly and turned around. I saw what looked like a… snake? It was small, about as thick as my finger, but it was completely white with no features to represent a mouth or anything, but it was very long and floated gently above the whitened clouds we were standing in.

“Wow.” I said quietly, my eyes widening a little out of curiosity. The snake slowly approached me, the same curiosity seeming to be in it as well. “Any idea what it is?” I asked shooting a glance towards Twilight.

“No idea, but it’s giving off some strange reading.” Twilight said, aiming her device at the creature. Spike took a step back. The snake moved back, copying Spike.

“Well it doesn’t seem too bad.” I said. Spike slowly walked towards it, and it mirrored, moving closer to us. The snake slithered through the air, pausing directly in front of me. “Hi.” I said uncertainly. The snake touched the end of my snout, sending a tingling static through it. “That tickles.” I giggled a little. The snake moved around my waist and coiled up my body slowly, making every inch it touched tingle (even through my clothes).

“You okay?” Spike asked cautiously.

“Yeah. It just tingles a little.” I nodded. Twilight approached it and poked it.

“Wow!” Twilight said excitedly. “It seems to be made out of some kind of… energy.”

The snake moved up to my hood and slid into my clothes, wrapping around me as if to stay warm. “I think it likes you.” Spike chuckled.

“I noticed.” I laughed.

“You wanna come with us little guy?” Twilight asked. The snake poked it’s head out my collar and stared at Twilight for a moment before nuzzling back inside.

“That’s a yes.” I smiled. Spike started walking again, continuing forward with Twilight. “So are we heading towards the source of the shaking?” I asked.

“Probably.” Twilight shrugged.

“Ookay then.” I shrugged. Twilight paused, glancing upward. Spike and I looked up and saw what looked like thousands of the white snakes drifting through the air. “That’s… a lot.” I mumbled in awe. Several brushed against me as they floated by, a couple wrapping around my arms and clinging to me and Spike, and Twilight. “They really like us.” I chuckled. The snakes tugged on us gently, pulling us towards the direction they were all flying. Twilight eagerly followed, but Spike still had some reluctance. “Come on they want to show us something.” I said egging him to move a little faster.

“What if they hurt you?” Spike questioned.

“They haven’t so far.” I said. Spike sighed and continued on. Twilight approached a wall of clouds, seeming almost too smooth to be natural. “Any idea what it is?” I asked. Twilight walked over and touched it, her hand going right through it.

“Whoa!” Twilight squealed as she was yanked through. Spike’s eyes widened and he looked up at me.

“After her!” I said quickly. Spike bolted forward and burst through the clouds. We were greeted by all the thousands of snakes flying in circles around something, and Twilight was directly in front of the white tornado. “Wow.” I said. The snake inside my coat slithered up out of my hood and into the rest. Twilight reached a hand out and touched the whirlwind, stepping in and disappearing as if they had simply become energy.

“You still wanna go after her?” Spike asked slowly.

“We have to keep her safe…” I started. Spike sighed and slowly walked towards the white vortex in front of us.

“Ready?” He asked, gripping my legs tightly.

“As ready as I’ll ever be.” I nodded. Spike took a deep breath and walked through. We were immediately surrounded in silence. We were no longer in the clouds, and I could see what we were actually standing on. Twilight was ahead the scaley black road that sent a chill down my spine. “What is this thing?” I asked uncertainly. The whale-like groan from earlier echoed through the silent air. Some sort of orb seemed to glow a dim blue towards the end of the path. Spike followed it with Twilight and stopped, seeing the two large orbs, seeming almost as large as me. “What the hell?” I asked.

“It seems the cornea is… Interesting.” Twilight said almost to herself.

“Cornea?” I questioned.

“Oh! Yes, sorry. It’s an eye. Or rather, they’re both eyes.” Twilight nodded.

“So… we’re on its’ nose or something?” I asked.

“It would seem so… Oh?” Twilight hummed, kneeling down next to the eye and looking at it intently.

“What?” I questioned.

“If I’m reading the movement and light reflections correctly… It’s staring at us.” Twilight smiled. Spike stared blankly at Twilight.

“Um…” I started. The orbs grew clearer, and amidst the blue I saw a white pupil appear, looking about the same as the snakes from earlier. “I think it’s been watching us.” I said.

“Ya think?” Spike stated. The eyes slowly shifted to me.

“Um… Hi.” I waved. A gentle glow appeared behind me. I turned and saw several of the white snakes from earlier come from the clouds that we had just left. “Twilight.” I said. Twilight turned and stared at the snakes.

“What do you want me to do?” Twilight questioned.

“I don’t know.” I said quickly. The snakes slowly started wrapping around every limb of my body.

“Um…” Spike stammered. My eyes widened as I was slowly lifted off Spike and into the air. Spike jumped up and grabbed my feet, hanging on tightly. “Sweetie!” He shouted fearfully.

“I don’t think they’re going to hurt me.” I said. Spike tightened his grip on me, not wanting to let go. “I have a feeling I’ll come back.” I said calmly, as I looked down at him. Spike’s face blanked as he started to grow closer to me, the snakes pulling him up as well. “Or we’re all going.” I laughed.

“I have so much to study!” Twilight called, floating up off a ways from us. Spike wrapped his arms around me and hugged me to him tightly. The warmth of not only him, but the soothing tingling of the snakes washed over me, canceling out the cold of the sky. The warm clothes we were wearing started to grow a bit too hot.

“Oh my god…” I started to pant as I began to sweat heavily.

“Magic stuff… do magic.” Spike suggested, breathing a little heavier. I nodded and my horn flashed, the extra layer of clothing instantly vanished. The snakes pulled us higher, the storm we were in growing further as we saw the full length of the clouds.

“Wow…” I said, awestruck by the sheer size of the creature we were just on. The miles of clouds stretched on as a sudden stillness filled the air. Glowing streaks spread across the clouds. “What’s that?” I asked. The cloud started to disperse and I could see countless numbers of the energy snakes flying alongside the large creature as it became fully visible. It had wings swayed back, as if to help turn, and a tail near the end looking like that of a shark’s. The movement of it was slow and sluggish, looking like one of the most majestic creatures I’ve ever laid my eyes on. “This is absolutely amazing.” I said giddily. Even Spike seemed to be immersed in the situation, but in all the chaos, even though he knew I was safe… He never let me go. I hugged him back and squeezed him tightly. Spike looked down at me, smiling lightly and bringing his lips close to mine. I smiled back and put my lips to his. Spike’s tongue surprised me as it forced it’s way into my mouth, coiling around my own. I sighed quietly and playfully ran my tongue as best I could against his. Spike’s arms ran across my back and tenderly caressed my skin under my shirt. I shivered at his touch and squeezed him closer. Spike’s tongue retracted, along with his mouth and stared almost lustfully into my eyes. The utter surprise was clear on my face. He leaned in and I could feel his breath on my neck as he seemed like he was about to whisper something.

“Sweetie.” He said softly.

“Yeah?” I asked hesitantly.

“The things I want to do to you…” He breathed, kissing my neck gently. “The things I’m GOING to do to you…”

“Hold on there.” I said quickly. A finger pressed itself to my lips.

“When you’re ready.” He reassured, nuzzling my cheek.

“Okay.” I smiled as I hugged him tightly again. His tongue licked at my neck, continuing to tease me gently.

“But until then… I can think of all the ways to make you scream.” He whispered, nipping at my ear.

“Spike… what’s gotten into you?” I asked, shivering slightly at his affection.

“Oh.” Twilight’s voice rang out. Both Spike and my attention shifted to Twilight, seeing she and several other snakes were staring at the two of us.

“I… I’m sorry. I don’t know why I…” Spike stammered quietly.

“Yeah… I can tell.” I nodded slowly.

“It’s these… things. They’re um… Yeah.” Spike said, glancing to the snakes.

“Mmhm. And they affected only you like that.” I nodded with a grin. The snakes seemed to tighten around us, pressing us closer together. I could immediately feel the large bulge in Spike’s pants press against my own crotch. “No.” I stated. The snakes slowly loosened their grip back to its’ original strength.

“Well I dunno… I kinda like it.” Spike said, pulling me back to his crotch and smirking. A snake passed by Spikes face, zapping him gently. He went cross eyed for a few moments before snapping out of it.

“That’s better.” I said. Spike chuckled, looking down at the sky snake thing…

“So what are we going to call it?” Spike asked.

“I think it wants to talk to us!” Twilight called.

“How would you guess that?” I called back. Spike and I were moved back down to the creature, but this time it was carrying us to to front, hovering us in front of it’s head. We all saw its mouth open slowly, exactly like a whale’s as we saw the black abyss of it’s interior. “Or… it could be trying to eat us.” I said slowly. We were slowly brought inside, its mouth staying open to illuminate the front for us as the snakes set us down gently. Twilight seemed fascinated (as always), running up to one of the sides.

“Strange… It has no teeth.” Twilight said, glancing around the toothless mouth.

“Yeah. I noticed.” I nodded. I saw a few of the many snakes die down to almost an ember before flickering away. “What are they doing?” I asked. Twilight looked down at the device, noticing it had disappeared. She went wide eyed, seeming about to panic before two snakes found it for her.

“Oh, thank you…” Twilight smiled, patting one of the snakes before looking down at her equipment. Her expression turned more to surprise and… pain.

“What’s wrong?” I asked.

“It’s gone… It died.” Twilight said, glancing up at us.

“Oh…” I mumbled.

“They’re its food.” Twilight said, glancing around at the snakes.

“They must give each other something if the snakes hang around it.” I said. Twilight had a light bulb moment as she seemed to understand.

“Oh… Oh oh.” Twilight repeated.

“What is it?” Spike asked.

“The snakes are energy that the sun gives off. The whale in a way is… Solar powered, like a plant.” Twilight said, her mouth wide open.

“Wait if the snakes are the energy the sun give off…” I started slowly.

“Then…” Spike continued, leaning in towards me.

“Doesn’t that mean they’re harmful to us?” I asked.

“Not necessarily. They are concentrated yes, but touching them would be like… Eh… You ever put your hand on a plasma globe?” Twilight asked.

“Yes.” I said. “And I know what it feels like. One’s been wrapped around me since we first saw them.”

“Well whatever it is seems to have it contained like one. You don’t get the deadly zap, just a feedback of the static.” Twilight continued.

“The sun doesn’t zap.” I stated.

“Hence the storms. It transfers the light into a form of energy it can use.” Twilight said with a widening smile.

“Electricity.” Spike finished.

“So, this is a large plant.” I said.

“Sort of yes.” Twilight nodded. “But something is killing its food… When I was in the station I saw the readings, which I now know was the creature and its food, but the electricity spikes I saw on my reports was dying off. But what…”

“Either something’s destroying the sun or it’s dying.” I said.

“So I guess I know what I’m going to be doing for the next few hours.” Spike chuckled.

“Wasn’t that already settled when our shuttle stopped working?” I joked.

“Whatever these snakes are, aren’t physically alive. This creature traps energy from the sun and stores it in these things. They’re almost like blood cells.” Twilight said, poking one of the snakes and smiling as it wrapped around her finger.

“What kind of blood cell?” I asked.

“Well judging by the numbers, I’d say they’re simply just red. But something the sun is doing is no longer providing energy for it to get it’s food… Ohh!” Twilight started.

“What?” I asked.

“The UV rays are only targeting the plants, but it must not read this creature as one…” Twilight said.

“So what do we do?” Spike asked. Twilight scratched her head and pondered.

“I don’t know.” She shrugged.

“Why don’t we you know… try to get it to another system?” I asked. “It seems like it wasn’t born here.”

“Well it does seem to survive only on this energy. I’m curious as to how it does this too… These things in fact ARE the creature. Or at least it makes them by choice. But why doesn’t it just… Hm.” Twilight mumbled.

“Maybe it can’t.” I said.

“What do you mean?” Twilight asked.

“Oh. We weren’t thinking the same thing.” I said.

“So why don’t we get back to the ship?” Spike suggested.

“How would we do that?” I asked, turning to him.

“Hey snake thingies.” Spike said aloud. The snakes slowed and turned to Spike. “We need our ship.”

The snakes coiled around us once more and lifted us up. Before I knew it, we were in front of the shuttle we came in on and they had released their grip on us.

“Okay…. But what makes you think our ship will work?” I asked. Spike ignored me and continued onto the ship. Twilight looked as confused as I did but followed him. I sighed and followed them both in.

“Okay creature thing!” Spike shouted. “You obviously want our help with something. You were scared, so you drained the power from our ship.” I stared at Spike for a few moments. Not ten seconds later, the power to the ship returned. I walked over to a seat and sat down in it.

“Alright that confirms my theory.” Spike said, scratching his head.

“What theory?” I asked. “That they understand us?”

“IT understands us, yes.” Spike nodded.

“Okay. Now what?” I asked. Twilight’s eyes seemed locked on her equipment she had set up in the ship.

“What is it?” Spike asked.

“It’s… I didn’t…” Twilight said, trailing off into a mumble.

“You didn’t what?” I asked curiously.

“I had been recording the pulses that this creature has been giving off and… When I look at it in full, it looks almost like… Morse.” Twilight said.

“What?” I asked.

“Morse code.” Twilight turned to me.

I grumbled. “Okay, what is it saying?” I questioned.

“I had been receiving the same pulse since before you arrived, but hadn’t considered… When we were in the station, it was giving an S.O.S., hoping someone would hear it.” Twilight said, seeming surprised.

“Well, now we can help it.” I said.

“There’s another message. This one is longer. It’ll take a little bit to translate.” Twilight said, looking up at Spike. He nodded and sat down, the ramp closing and the engines heating up. I sighed and leaned back in my chair. The soothing sound of the whale rang out as we flew up into orbit. Once the shuttle landed, we entered Icarus again and were greeted by Owlick. He smiled and waved to us. I waved back at him. Twilight rushed back to the airlock and onto the station, Spike calmly walking after her. I followed the two back to the lab and watched Twilight work on her terminal.

I sighed quietly and leaned against a wall. Twilight’s movement stopped, seeming to have her interest caught in something. “Did you find out what it was saying?” I asked.

“Yeah…” Twilight said in almost a mumble.

“So what is it saying?” I asked. Twilight looked almost as if she was about to cry. “What is it?” I asked a little hesitantly.

“It’s um… Well you want me to read it or…” She asked quietly.

“Go ahead.” I nodded slowly. Twilight just stared at the screen for a moment in silence before rushing out of the room. Spike blinked a few times before moving over to the computer and reading. I walked up behind Spike to read the message too.

‘I was born on this planet, watching peacefully as the creatures grew and flourished. There was peace and serenity, and I was happy. I met many travelers from worlds beyond, some tried to kill me, others just wanted to see me. But now it seems that my time is becoming thin, and it’s getting harder to hang on. The sun has stopped giving what I need to live, and I don’t know why. I could just leave the planet, find a new home… But I won’t. This is where I have lived my entire life, and this is the place I will stay. Like a mother to it’s child, I will never stop caring about it. It is the only home I have ever known, and I am glad I didn’t have to die alone. Thank you for staying with me, Unicorn White as Snow, Unicorn of Twilight, and Warm Dragon.’

Spike just stared silently at the screen, unknowing what to say. I could barely hold back tears. The groan from the whale echoed lightly through the speakers as a familiar white snake slithered from my shirt. I looked down at the snake and shakily hugged it. The snake slowly wrapped around me, giving the warm tingling from earlier again and nuzzling my body. I began to softly cry as I squeezed it tightly. Spike hugged me gently and stared out the window to the planet below. Twilight burst into the room and stared wide eyed at us. “I’m going to need to borrow your ship.” She stated.

“For what?” I asked quickly, staring up at her with tears still streaming down my face.

“So long as I’m still standing, I’m not going to let it die, now come on!” Twilight said, rushing back onto Icarus. I glanced to Spike before I rushed after Twilight. Spike and I entered Icarus and we followed Twilight to the cockpit.

“Detach from the station now!” Twilight stated. Bulk turned back to her from the pilot’s seat.

“Alright…” He said uncertainly. He pressed a few buttons and the ship was left adrift.

“What do you intend to do?” I asked. Twilight shoved Bulk out of the pilot’s seat and sat down. She analyzed the controls and started mumbling to herself as she took the steering wheel.

“Don’t break my ship.” Spike stated. Twilight engaged the thrusters, nearly knocking us all over as she turned the ship.

“What the hell! Give us all a little warning!” I said a little angrily. My heart sank as I realized where we were heading.

“We’re getting a little close to the sun.” Spike said nervously.

“Twilight what are you doing? Just because the UV rays won’t hurt us doesn’t mean we won’t die if we get to close!” I said.

“It doesn’t mean we will either.” Twilight continued.

“That still doesn’t mean we should go into it!” I retorted.

“My scans of the star are saying strange things, things that a star shouldn’t be giving off.” Twilight said.

“And??” Spike said in a slight panic.

“And that’s not a sun.” Twilight stated.

“Then what is it?” I questioned.

“That’s what we’re going to find out.” Twilight said bluntly, the sun growing ever closer and brighter. I covered my eyes to block out as much of the light as I could. Twilight however, was staring directly at it.

“What are you doing? It’s giving the same light that a star would give off?!? It’s dangerous to look right into it!” I said fearing her safety.

“It was safe to stare at from my station, it’s safe to stare at it now.” Twilight said. Spike gripped my hand and squeezed it.

“Well at least we’re together.” Spike said reassuringly. I nodded slowly and hugged him tightly, burying my face into his neck. The ship started to shake gently, increasing in intensity slowly.

“I’m just going to sit here.” Bulk shrugged, crawling over to one of the sides. The shaking grew more and more violent.

“I love you Sweetie.” Spike said softly.

“I love you too Spike…” I said quietly as I hugged him tighter. He slowly moved his head closer and touched his lips to mine, seeming to be the most tender and loving one he’s given yet. Spike held me tightly against him as if it were the last time he’d ever be able to touch me again. I closed my eyes and held in the kiss. By the time we came back to reality… The shaking had stopped. Spike and I looked out the front window, and the sun was very, very close, and practically taking up my entire vision. Something DID seem strange… It wasn’t acting like a sun would, there were no sun spots… It was smooth. Perfectly smooth. “Wh..at?” I muttered. It was also completely still, eerily still.

“That’s… not normal.” Spike said.

“No… no it’s not. It’s like something created it.” I said quietly.

“It’s a Dyson Sphere!” Twilight stated.

“A what?” I asked.

“A Dyson Sphere can be many things… But the thing it scientifically would be used for is power. It’s a sphere built around a sun that takes the power from it to use for… whatever you want really.” Twilight continued.

“And why would it be out here?” I asked.

“I have no idea. This technology shouldn’t even exist… So who made it?” Twilight asked herself.

“It’s causing the creature on the planet to die.” I stated. “We can’t let it stay here.”

“Gotcha.” Spike said, motioning Bulk out as he left Twilight and I alone in the cockpit. Twilight stared silently at the sphere.

“Twilight.” I said.

“Huh?” Twilight mumbled, turning to me.

“I have a strange feeling whoever built it knew what would happen to the creature on the planet.” I said.

“I doubt that. Whatever it is has been around for a long time. Something like this doesn’t just get built overnight.” Twilight said.

“What if it was meant to slowly kill the creature.” I said.

“It’s not as if it wants to fight. A species advanced enough to build this could just kill it if they wanted.” Twilight said bluntly.

I sighed. “Fine. Then why would they just abandon it here? There’s nothing else around for it to power.” I said.

“Unless…” Twilight started, staring silently at me as a chilling realization hit the two of us.

“We need to stop Spike and Bulk.” I said quickly. There was a shaking as the cannons attached to the wings fired at the sphere. I rushed out of the cockpit and ran towards one of the wings. “DON’T SHOOT IT!” I screamed. Spike turned to me with a hint of confusion on his face. Both our heads turned to the window and saw the enormous white sphere start to change color to a bright red. “Oh god.” I muttered fearfully. Several lines started to appear along the surface, creating strange symbols and shapes. “I don’t want to know what it’s doing…” I mumbled quietly.

“I don’t know if you can hear me, but you need to stop!” Twilight’s voice rang out on the radio, but it seemed as if it wasn’t directed at us.

“She’s… talking to the sphere?” I questioned, glancing to Spike. He stood up and tugged me along back to the cockpit.

“I know you probably have a reason to be here… whether it’s for observation, exploration, or just a need for power… But there’s something on that planet that you’re killing because of what you’re doing.” Twilight said into the radio. I silently watched Twilight unsure of what to do. The three of us were caught off guard by the sound of metal grinding against metal echoing in a pattern through the radio.

“What the hell?” I questioned.

“Can’t even begin to think of how to translate that.” Twilight said quietly. She cleared her throat and grabbed the microphone again. “I know you probably have some way of listening to the planet back there, so LISTEN!” She stated. There was a moment before the sound of the whale from earlier echoed through the ship, but it sounded much weaker, and pained. “Does that sound healthy to you? That’s what you’re doing to it.”

There was nothing but silence in return.

I remained quiet as I hoped for something to happen. The sphere slowly began to fade to a white once more.

“Maybe whatever they are don’t care…” I said quietly, hoping it wasn’t true. The lines on the sphere began to encompass the entirety of it, spreading quickly. “Should we… you know get back from it?” I asked quickly. Twilight bolted out from the pilot’s seat and Spike replaced her. The ship spun around and Spike glanced back at us.

“Hold on.” He said. Twilight and I grabbed onto something as the ship lurched forward, speeding away from the sun. Twilight jumped up and ran out of the cockpit and I quickly followed behind her. We headed to the back of the ship and looked at the sphere get further away. The cracks shone brightly as it seemed to… open?

“I think it won’t be safe to stare at for much longer.” I said.

“Heat shielding is on.” Spike’s voice rang over the speakers.

“Turn on the UV shields too!” I called loudly.

“Got it.” Spike said before the speaker clicked off. The Sphere released the sun, separating entirely from it.

“Wow.” I said in awe. The white sphere hovered away from the sun and started to change to a black color. “It was a ship.” I said quietly.

“But is there anything living on it? Or is it automated. It would explain why it’s here… It uses stars as batteries and to recharge.” Twilight suggested.

“I don’t think it’s automated… otherwise. Why would it have listened to us?” I questioned. The sphere could barely be seen as it blended in with the space around it. I saw its form stretch and shake, disappearing and fading away. “I wonder where it’s going now.” I said. Twilight turned and looked at the planet, smiling lightly.

“Maybe it’s going home.” Twilight said, turning back to me.

“I still wonder where that is.” I laughed quietly. “At least it’s not killing the creature down there anymore.”

“Well I can find that out later. I did launch a tracer awhile back.” Twilight said calmly, turning and walking back to the cockpit.

“If it’s that advanced I’m sure it would notice a tracer.” I said as I followed her. Twilight stopped and turned to me, shoving the device she was holding in her hand in my face. I grumbled and shoved it out of my face. “Don’t do that.”

“You see these numbers?” Twilight asked, pointing to the rapidly rising numbers on the screen.

“Yes. What do they mean.” I said, already knowing she’d answer that regardless of it being asked or not.

“That… is speed.” Twilight said. The number was going up a thousand at a time, and I could already tell that it was counting in lightyears.

“I don’t think we can reach where it’s going…” I said.

“We can’t lose it either.” Twilight smiled. “And… Well.” She started, her eyes wandering around the ship.

“Well what?” I asked.

“And you know… this is a nice ship, especially if you’re a scientist that likes to observe and study.” Twilight continued, returning to gaze to me.

“I’m not the captain.” I said. “But I wouldn’t mind.”

“What the hell!” Spike’s voice shouted out. A white snake darted through the hall and around Twilight.

“And it begins.” I chuckled.

“So which room is mine?” Twilight smiled widely.

Episode V: Bonding (NSFW)

Hey Bulk, you got the helm?” Spike asked. Bulk nodded and waved him away. Spike turned to me and motioned me to follow as he headed into his room.

I walked right behind him, “Yeah?” I asked. He took a seat on his bed and crossed his arms. I sighed and sat down beside him.

“About what I said back on the planet…” Spike started. I silently stared at him. “I’m sorry. I really don’t know why…” He continued, scratching his neck nervously.

“Go on.” I said calmly.

“And we were thousands of feet in the air being lifted up by energy snakes. I uh… things get said… I thought it was a dream.” Spike said, searching for an excuse.

“Spike.” I stated. Spike’s mouth shut and he turned to me. “Do you know what I want you to do?”

“Uh…” Spike blinked a few times, as if waiting for a punch or something. I put my hand on his cheek.

“I want you to shut up.” I said. I slowly pulled him closer. “Alright?” I asked softly as I hugged him gently. Spike smiled and returned the hug, his warm face pressing into my neck. “That’s better.” I said quietly gently caressing his back. I chuckled lightly and stared down at him.

“What?” Spike asked curiously.

“Did I say you could speak yet?” I asked calmly. My eyes locking with his. Spike just stared at me, a small smile cracking on his lips. I pushed his head back into my neck. “You know what?” I asked softly. Spike responded by licking my neck slowly. I pushed him back and glared at him. He looked more surprised than anything.

“I’m sorry…” Spike stammered quietly.

“Lay on your back now.” I stated. Spike blinked a few times before slowly lying back. “Good. Now don’t move.” I smiled as I stood up from the bed. I walked over to the door and hummed quietly as I played a little with the console beside it. “There we go.” I smiled widely as I turned back to Spike. I got back onto the bed. “Okay you can move again.” I said as I hugged him tightly. Spike was hesitant, holding his arms out as if uncertain of actually moving. I nuzzled closer to him and softly kissed him. Spike’s hands wrapped around me and returned to his normal demeanor. I pulled back and nuzzled his cheek. “I love you.” I whispered.

“I love you too.” Spike said, kissing my cheek. “You know… I’m really glad Bulk found you.”

“I’m glad he did too.” I smiled as I used my magic to pull him as close as was physically possible for either of us, my breasts now squished tightly against his chest. I felt something extra wrap around me and saw his tail had freed itself. The green spikes that I had grown so used to had retracted into it. I giggled and gently poked the tip of his tail. Spike’s smile grew and the end of his tail poked the end of my snout. My own smile grew as my horn started to glow again. I teleported his shirt off and pushed back slightly. I glanced down at his chest and gently ran my hand over his abs. His hands moved down to my hips and tenderly held my waist to his. I gently kissed him again and pushed deeply into it. I put more magic into my horn and teleported my own shirt off, all but my still covered breasts now pressed against his warm stomach.

“I can honestly say, I didn’t see my day going this way.” He laughed quietly, his smile only growing as he took in the sight of my body.

I smiled as an idea suddenly came to mind. I teleported from his arms and right to the foot of the bed, making sure my back was to him. Spike looked down from his splayed position and his tail slithered forward, just barely able to tickle my lower back. I giggled and stepped a little farther away, making sure to remain just out of his reach. I glanced back and slowly bent over, shaking my hips a little as I did. Spike’s tale slunk down and went limp, only to see something else getting a little life just above. My smile grew and I continued to shake my hips as I slowly removed my pants, I made sure to give him the perfect view of my ass and swayed my hips a little more as the cool air rushed over my exposed skin. I stepped out of my pants and took a single step back, “Oops.” I said innocently as I pushed my exposed ass closer to him, making sure only it was in reach of his tail. The tip of his tail slowly moved towards me, poking the center of my back and slid teasingly slow down and between my plump white cheeks. I giggled quietly and shook a little more, grinding back against his tail. After a few moments I slowly pulled his tail back out and stepped away again before turning to him. “Close your eyes.” I said softly. Spike put a hand over his eyes, keeping it there for a moment before opening his fingers to peek. I laughed and shook my head.

Spike’s smile grew and he closed his fingers. I slowly took my bra off and threw it at his head so it covered his face up completely. I giggled again and climbed onto the bed, magically stripping him as I moved up. “Spike.” I whispered softly. Spike’s tail coiled around my waist and squeezed me gently. “I heard you liked pillows.” I said coyly as I grabbed my bra with my magic and grabbed his head, shoving it into my naked chest and squeezed my breasts around his head. Spike’s eyes were wide and I felt his tail go limp again. I giggled and kissed his forehead. “You’re so cute when you’re like this.” I laughed. I pulled him back from my breasts and ran my hand down his chest. Spike’s smile returned and he pulled me back down, nuzzling my chest again. I sighed softly and squeezed the back of his head and relaxed into him. I stayed like that for a few moments before pushing him away and looked down at the tent he had been pitching. “Did I do that?” I asked innocently as I crawled down, giving him another great view of my ass, this time much much closer then he had ever been before. I shook my hips right in front of his face as I gently ran my hand over the bulge. The bulge only seemed to grow, twitching by my touch and I can assume my positioning. I reached back and slid my fingers under the strap of my panties and slowly pulled them back and down, teasing him with the ever increasing view of my untouched marehood. Spike licked his lips and I could see the lust in his eyes as he watched (and definitely enjoyed) the show. I stopped as just half of my slit was revealed to him and slowly withdrew my hand bringing both of them to his own underwear. I gave one more shake of my hips as I pulled his underwear slowly over his large member. I licked my lips as I stared down at it. I ran a single finger over his length and gently teased the head. It was easily eighteen inches, and I don’t even think he’s completely hard yet… I glanced back at Spike for a moment as I slowly leaned down, bringing my face closer to his crotch. I grabbed his member with one hand and held it steady as I slowly began to inspect it.

“How is it?” Spike asked. I gave a quiet gasp, his hot breath washing over my nethers as I realized I had gotten my backside closer than I thought to his face. I breathed across his mast and smiled as I planted a small kiss on the head. Spike gave a low and quiet groan, his cock twitching and a large glob of pre oozed from the tip. I quickly licked it up and moaned as the taste washed over my tongue. I then gently took the head into my mouth and swirled my tongue around it, my hand slowly stroking him as I suckled. Spike’s tail coiled around my breasts slowly and tenderly squeezed them as I felt his hands dig into my big butt. I moaned around his head and removed my hand as I took a little more of his length into my mouth. His teeth bit down on my underwear and tugged on it, straining it against my pussy. I let out a choked moan as I pushed a little farther down onto his length, swallowing around it as I licked around it. Spike tightened his grip on my ass and groaned, his tongue rolling out and sliding under my panties, running softly along my lust swollen labia. I pushed my hips back into his face and started bobbing my head up and down, taking his length in and out of my snout as I swirled my tongue around it. I felt my panties get tighter and tighter as he pulled it harder. I groaned and grabbed his balls, massaging and kneading them passionately as I tried to lick them whenever I reached his hilt. Spike moaned loudly, his grip tightening as a snap was heard, I could feel my underwear was no longer on my body. I pulled back from his mast and started stroking it with both my hands. Spike shivered as more of his pre poured out in large blobs at a time. He pulled my hips down to his snout and buried his face in my snatch, inhaling deeply before I felt his tongue burrow into me.

I moaned loudly and and slurped the pre from his length, greedily lapping it up and teasing his head. The tail around my chest tightened further as a finger traced around my pleasure button. I squeezed my legs around his head and pulled him in further with my magic. I planted sloppy kisses down his length as I teased it with my tongue. Two of his fingers joined his tongue and stretched my slit open wider so he could lick deeper. “I didn’t know you were a virgin.” Spike breathed, seeming slightly surprised.

“Is it wrong I didn’t sleep with every man I met?” I joked as I gently teethed on his length. Spike shivered and his shaft started to twitch.

“If you keep that up…” Spike panted. I smiled widely and took his length back into my throat. I started swallowing it and licked around his base as I grabbed his balls and kneaded them, egging him on to cum already. “Nnghoh god… Here it comes!” He groaned loudly, thrusting his hips and nearly making me choke. I could feel the seed swelling up before it burst out and flooded my mouth with an indescribable taste stronger than I’ve ever had on my tastebuds. I gagged around his length and continued to swallow down his cum. Spike shook beneath me as he generously gave me more of the addictive substance. “Sweetie…” He gasped quietly. I squeezed his sack and pressed my slit back to his face. His tongue immediately pressed into me once more, sliding around and greedily licking my inner walls clean. His tail whipped around and forced itself to join his tongue, grinding around as it tickled what I knew was my hymen. I shivered and I felt a little strength leave me as an orgasm hit me. Spike shook as he tasted the flood of love that poured onto his face, closing his eyes and drinking from my fountain. I tore his length out of my throat and moaned loudly.

“Ooohh… Spiikeee…” I groaned. Spike pulled his tail out and nuzzled my pussy gently.

“Just as soft as I hoped.” Spike sighed. I climbed off of him and laid down beside him. I laid my head down on his chest as I hugged him tightly and nuzzled myself against him. He smiled and peppered the top of my head with kisses, his tail wrapping around me once again and squeezing me as lovingly as his arms.

“I love you.” I cooed softly.

“I love you more.” Spike said, running a hand tenderly through my hair.

“Well I’m the one giving you MY first time.” I said softly as I straddled his chest.

“I’m honored. But I’m not done yet…” Spike said, his hands grabbing my waist and sliding me towards his face, burying his snout into me and tasting me once more. I let out a quiet squeak before moaning and pressing down as much as I could onto his face. Spike growled into me. “You taste so good…”

“So did you.” I moaned. Spike’s tail wrapped around my waist and yanked me back, now feeling his harder than ever shaft between my cheeks. I stiffened up slightly and looked down at him. His hands moved up my legs and stopped at my hips.

“If you want to stop…” He said.

I shook my head. “I just… Take it slow… alright?” I asked quietly.

Spike nodded and smiled, sitting up and hugging me tightly. I hugged him back. His lips sent shivers down my spine as he peppered my neck with kisses. “You smell even better…” Spike said softly. I used my magic to pull his head up to mine before I forcefully kissed him. His hands gripped my back tighter as he laid me on my back, never breaking the kiss. I slowly opened my legs and wrapped them around his waist. Spike made sure his shaft was pointed up at us before he slid the shaft up and down against my slit. I moaned into his mouth and returned the grind. Spike pulled his head back just far enough to speak. “I’m going to make sure you can’t walk straight after this.” He whispered as the tip prodded my entrance. My breath caught in my throat and I started to quietly pant in anticipation. Spike kept his lips just far enough away from mine so they didn’t touch as I felt the tip of his cock start to stretch my cunt open, his eyes never leaving mine. My mouth slowly opened and a low groan escaped my lips as I began to feel so much fuller then I ever had before. “I have to break your hymen… Do you want it slow, or like a bandaid?” He asked in a more sincere tone. “This is the only part I was dreading…” He said, the pain of having to hurt me obvious in his expression.

“Make it quick…” I said quietly. Spike pushed slowly in, making me shiver with pleasure up until he felt my hymen. I bit down on my lip and closed my eyes. Spike took a breath in before his shaft lanced forward, tunneling through me and my hymen. I gasped but the pain was quick and almost instantly pushed aside as pleasure pulsed through my body.

“Just like a shot… With a comically large needle.” Spike laughed.

“It wasn’t that bad.” I smiled. Spike’s smile grew as he started to slide back. With all the anxiety gone I could now feel every vein and pulse of his quaking shaft. I moaned loudly and purposefully tightened around him. Spike’s mouth dropped open and his eyes shut, continuing to slide out until the tip remained. I tried to say something, but only a choked sputter came out as he effortlessly drilled a foot back in. I grunted and closed my eyes tightly again.

“So warm… I could get used to this.” Spike chuckled, beginning to thrust at a slow but steady pace.

“I… could too…” I sighed quietly, my walls quivering around his member. Spike paused his movements as a thought came to him. “What are you thinking about?” I asked quietly as I slowly grew a little more used to his mast being inside my previously virgin slit.

“You uh… want me to pull out right?” Spike asked, a little uncertain.

“I’m taking birth control.” I said. Spike stared at me for a few moments.

“Since when?” He asked.

“About a week ago.” I said. Spike eyed me and a coy grin slid across his face.

“The day we met? And what made you start taking it?” He asked softly.

“You.” I said bluntly.

“Oh so you’ve been thinking about me a lot.” Spike said, leaning closer to me. “All alone in your room?”

“Don’t act like you weren’t thinking about me.” I said.

“I never said I wasn’t.” Spike chuckled, pulling back and roughly thrusting back in. I gasped loudly and tensed up. “Relax…” He said softly, burying his face in my neck and slowing his thrusts. I moaned quietly as I wrapped my arms around him. A strange twinge of sensations hit my gut as Spike’s head jabbed at something with every thrust. I bit my lip and shivered slightly. “I’ve never been this deep inside any woman… I don’t think it’s been… this lengthy before.” Spike panted lightly.

“Nn… That’s… good…” I mumbled.

“The things you’re doing to me… Oh god.” Spike inhaled the scent of my hair deeply as he ground his hips in circles along with every thrust like a screw being driven into my deepest pleasure sockets. I tightened further and I could feel a thinly veiled orgasm come through. My insides were being overloaded by his burning draconic pre, making me feel more sensitive and slick as his hammer tenderized my meat. I groaned quietly and buried my face into his neck as I pushed back against him, begging him to go harder. Spike’s face pressed harder into me as he leaned forward. I felt my hips lifted up, using his position for leverage and increasing the strength of the already brutal beating he was giving me. “Oh yeah… you like being slammed by my monster dick don’t you?” He panted and groaned.

“Yes! I fucking love it!” I moaned. Spike gritted his teeth before he bit down on my breast. I nearly screamed and thrashed slightly in his arms, I could feel my walls tighten further around him as more juices leaked out and onto his lap and the bed. Spike teethed on my nipple and tugged it while his fiery shaft started to swell once again.

“God I’m going to cum so hard… Going to fucking fill you…” Spike growled loudly.

“Do iiittt!” I begged. “Fill me! Make me POP!”

Spike’s eyes closed tightly and his teeth clamped together as he pulled his head back. I felt a boiling liquid shoot into my body as he started to pump me full of his built up love. He was holding me tightly to his hilt, pinning me down while he bred me like a dog. I don’t think I could make him stop even if I wanted to… And oh god I loved it. “You’re mine you little bitch…” Spike breathed, his seed trying to make room as some flooded out my snatch, drooling down my slit and onto the bed. “Little white slut take it all…” He groaned, pulling back and thrusting powerfully in an attempt to get more inside me. I moaned weakly as my own orgasm ripped through me, forcing me to tighten painfully around him. Spike panted as his orgasm tapered off slowly. I shivered and weakly pulled him in and kissed him. His tongue pushed into my mouth and I could taste my juices from his earlier snack wash into my mouth. I moaned into his mouth and licked his tongue clean. Spike’s shaft slipped out and he slid down to my breasts, suckling roughly on my left nipple.

“Mmm…” I cooed softly. Spike kneaded my breast with his hands and moaned quietly as he drank my milk. I held his head there and sighed softly. He lifted me up gently and flipped me over onto my hands and knees. I blinked a few times and glanced back, seeing he was at full hardness and it hadn’t gone soft in the slightest. I bit down on my lip and stared at him.

“Sorry… but bad things happen if a dragon’s libido isn’t… satisfied.” Spike whispered in a soft and sultry tone as he forced his head into my snatch. I groaned and pushed back against him. Spike’s legs moved in front of mine, asserting himself further as he mated me. His cock slid further into my already wet and abused passage, pounding in and out with a grunt. I moaned and pushed my head down into the bed, opening myself even more to him. “So good… How did you get so tight?” He sighed, moving his hips more to make sure he touched every inch of my interior.

“L… like… this…” I mumbled as my magic encased his length and gave him an even tighter and hotter surface to rub against, another orgasm rocked me and my cunt further tightened around him as well. Spike gasped, his mouth falling open and drool leaking out onto my back. I could practically hear his virile testicles churn as he increased his speed regardless of the vice around him. “Harder…” I groaned. “Fuck me harder…”

“Tell me what a little cumdumpster you are first.” Spike groaned almost strained by my tightness.

My magic tightened painfully around him. “I… said… harder.” I grunted. Spike shook and hoisted me up, slamming me into the wall as he began pounding in violently, my stiff nipples rubbing hard up and down the icy ship. “YES!” I nearly screamed in ecstasy.

“I’m gonna explode god shit!” Spike shouted, digging into my skin with his claws as his grip tightened, making sure not an inch of me was touching the ground as he shoved me into the wall with each thrust.

“Oh god… DO IT!” I yelled. “FILL ME!”

“Nngh SWEETIE!” Spike wailed, falling to the floor with me and landing on our sides, spooning as he unleashed more of his cum into me. His thrusting only grew more passionate and rough, each shot of his cum stabbing me in the gut with pain that transitioned to utter pleasure with each thrust pushing it deeper into me and… Oh god… I can feel it pushing past my cervix and drowning my womb. I quivered and felt the last bit of my strength fail me. Spike tightened his grip around me and held me against his warm body as his thick cum continued to bubble out of my snatch, my gurgling gut bulging out with every womb filling blast of his body tingling cum.

“Oh… god…” I shivered. “So full…”

“I could get used to this.” Spike said softly, pressing his face into the back of my neck.

“So… could… I.” I moaned quietly. Spike peppered my neck with kissed, his shaft slowly thrusting into me again. I grunted quietly and pressed my face into the floor. “Nnmmf…”

Spike pushed me onto my stomach, never exiting my pussy before roughly thrusting into me again. I groaned underneath him and weakly pressed back against him. Spike grunted as he stood up with me and set me down on the bed. My eyes widened as he pulled my head off the edge of the bed, his cock dangling in front of my mouth, absolutely soaked and oozing with our cocktail of juices. “S… Spike… let’s take a br-” I was cut off by a gag as he forced it into my mouth. I choked and shook as it forced itself down my throat. I laid there unable to do anything as he face fucked me.

“Oh my god Sweetie…” Spike panted, grabbing my head and thrusting in and out at nearly the same speed he was treating my pussy, the smell of his strong musk rubbing onto my nose from his balls slapping me in the face making my vision blurry. I gagged on his length and closed my eyes. Spike leaned forward, holding my breasts tightly and tugging on them as he slammed his hips forward, repeating and using my chest as handles to hold on. I groaned quietly into his crotch and started weakly licking the piston. I could feel every inch of him twitch and swell, his next batch of cum moving down my throat. The smell of his lust overwhelmed my senses as he filled my stomach with more sizzling seed. “That’s it…” He sighed softly as he continued to receive his relief. I moaned weakly and shivered. My cum filled womb jostled with each pulse of his dick and sent mind numbing pleasure each inch of my body. My eyes could barely make out the swelling of my stomach from the sheer deposit he was giving me. Spike shivered, pulling himself out from my throat and giving the last of his savory cum and pouring it onto my face.

“Oh my… god…” I panted heavily. Spike blinked a few times, staring down at me, watching the cum flow from my slit and ooze off my face.

“I… maybe I overdid it…” Spike started, his soft shaft dangling between his legs and still seeping leftovers from our fun.

“Just… a little…” I nodded weakly.

“Sorry… really sorry…” Spike said slowly. He took a seat next to me and put a hand on my gurgling gut and couldn’t help but smile. “You look good like this.” He laughed. I glared up at him. “What? It wasn’t an insult. Something about you full of my cum just…” He trailed off, seeing his shaft rehardening.

“No.” I stated. Spike pulled me up gently and hugged me.

“So you didn’t like it?” He asked quietly.

“I didn’t say that… I’m just tired.” I sighed. Spike hugged me a little tighter and nuzzled my cheek.

“You weren’t too bad yourself.” He chuckled. “I’m pretty tired too.”

“Then lets go to sleep.” I yawned as I laid my head down on his chest and closed my eyes.

“Good night.” Spike said, kissing the top of my head.

“Mm… You too…” I mumbled as I felt myself doze off.

My eyes opened slowly and I saw I was still in Spike’s warm embrace, and he had nodded off. I don’t know how long I was asleep, but I still looked… bloated. I stretched a little bit and nuzzled back against Spike’s chest. Spike licked his lips. “Mm… steak.” He mumbled. I giggled quietly and looked up at him, he talks in his sleep? That’s so cute. Spike pressed a little more into me, putting a lot of pressure on my stomach. I felt a quivering from my nethers as the sudden urge to use the restroom hit me. I quickly pushed out of his arms and bolted for the door, forcing it open with my magic as I rushed right into the nearby bathroom. A bout of liquids started flowing south and I nearly collapsed from the sudden onset of pleasure as the warm, thick cum started to pour out onto the floor beneath me. There were rapid footsteps, snapping my head around as I saw Spike standing in the door.

“What’s wrong? I heard…” He started, his mouth dropping open slowly.

“Don’t… I’m trying to… Oh god…” I gasped, my entire body shaking as my muscles failed, forcing more out and coating my legs and the floor in his leftover sperm. My breathing slowed and a soft sigh escaped as I felt the last seep out. Spike was visible at full mast again and staring in almost awe.

“You… okay?” He asked slowly.

“Yeah…” I nodded slowly. “Now I am.”

“You need any help?” Spike asked.

“No.” I shook my head. Spike looked at me as if he had just remembered something.

“Oh yeah uh…” Spike started.

“What?” I asked. Spike scratched his head and turned around.

“You’ll find out…” He said nervously before walking out. I silently glared at him as he left.

“Of course you’d do that to me.” I muttered quietly. I grudgingly followed him back to our room and saw him sitting quietly. “What?”

“Well…” Spike continued.

“Stop stalling.” I stated. Spike pointed to the table in the corner of his room. I glanced to it and saw a radio that seemed connected to the ship. My eye twitched.

“Now I didn’t know it was on before we started.” Spike said quickly.

“Everyone… heard us…” I started slowly. There was a knocking on the door to the room.

“If um… You two are done I… I think Bulk wanted to talk about a mission.” Twilights half choked voice rang out.

“I’m not coming out of this room. Ever. Again.” I stated.

“Well you’ve already cum plenty of times in it…” Spike started. I glared at him. Spike’s mouth shut immediately.

“You, leave now.” I stated. Spike looked over to his clothes.

“What about my…” He continued. My horn flashed and both of us were clothed again.

“NOW!” I nearly shouted. Spike bolted out of the room and the door locked behind him. I closed my eyes and fell into the bed, pressing my face firmly into the pillow. I smiled softly and sighed.

“Mm. Next time you’re mine.” I said to myself.

Chapter VI: Rare Specimen

“So they left?” Twilight asked.

“Yeah. Sweetie and Spike are on a mission, I dunno when they’ll be back.” Bulk nodded.

“So I’ll supposedly be alone?” She wondered.

“Except for Owlick of course. I’ll probably just be sleeping.” Bulk said.

“That’s great! There’s a few things I’ve been meaning to do anyway.” She said excitedly.

“You have fun.” Bulk said, slumping down into the pilot’s seat and closing his eyes.

“Oh, I will.” Twilight smiled as she stood up and walked back towards her room. When she entered, she saw a pair of legs sticking out from under her bed. She stood in her doorway and raised an eyebrow. Her horn lit up and she teleported whoever it was right out onto the floor. “And what do you suppose you were doing?” She questioned as she stared at Owlick. He blinked a few times, seeming to have spaced off from the sudden change of location. He looked over to the bed and kneeled down, motioning her over. She walked over and kneeled down beside him, still staring at him. He showed her that some of the screws in her bed were loose, and could have had an unfortunate accident had they stayed that way. “Oh. Well thank you.” Twilight smiled. Owlick smiled back and nodded, slowly walking back to the door. “Owlick.” She started. He stopped and spun around immediately. She slowly walked up to him and hugged him. He stood silently, staring wide eyed past her. She giggled and stepped back from him. “You know, I do need some help with a few things if you’d be willing to.” She continued. He smiled widely and nodded quickly.

“Great! Now just follow me.” She smiled as she lead him out of her room and down the hall. She opened up a few boxes with her magic and various things floated out. He tilted his head curiously and turned to her for further instructions. “Don’t worry. You won’t have to do much other then sit down.” She said as she motioned towards a chair that had just landed firmly on the ground. He slowly walked over and took a seat in the empty chair. “Good now just relax.” She said comfortingly. He stared silently up at her, still smiling. She smiled back down and plucked an item from the air. It appeared to be a small scanner. “Now this first part will only take a second.” She said as she ran the device slowly in front of his body. She scribbled down a few notes. “That’s good. It works!” She smiled. She looked around for a moment. “Now. I need to test a few other features on it. First, have you been sick recently?” He shook his head. “Okay.” She mumbled as she wrote a few things down. “Are you scared of needles?”

He paused for a moment before slowly shaking his head.

“Lying isn’t going to do either of us any good.” Twilight said. “Now please, just tell me the truth.”

Owlick looked down almost shamefully before nodding.

“Don’t be ashamed.” Twilight said with a caring smile as she gently grabbed his hand. He stared silently (as usual) at her hand, his mouth seeming to be open slightly. She chuckled and squeezed his hand. “How about this, I’ll skip over all the parts with needles in them.” She offered, her smile never fading. He nodded violently. “Okay, let’s see what’s next then.” She laughed as she looked at her clipboard. “Hm that we’d need a blood sample for… Can’t do that one either…” She muttered quietly. He grabbed the clipboard and threw it out of the room. “What was that about?” She snapped. He shrugged innocently. She stared at him as the clipboard reappeared in her hands. “Do that again and I’ll just restrain you and do everything I need to.” She said. Owlick stared at the clipboard and sighed quietly. Twilight once again looked down at the clipboard. “Ah. Here we go!” She smiled again.

Owlick just waited patiently for something bad to happen. “Just hold completely still.” She said as she grabbed the small device once more and then tapped a few things on it. “Hm that’s interesting…” She mumbled as she scribbled a few things onto the clipboard. He tilted his head curiously and continued to stare at her. “Ooh… That’s even better!” She said giddily. “This is amazing!” He stood up and slowly peeked at her sheet. “Sit down! I’m not finished yet!” She said as she pushed him back into the chair. Owlick sat wide eyed and glanced up at her. “Okay. I’m done.” She smiled. He sat absolutely still, slightly fearful to move. “You can get up now.” She assured. “Even if I couldn’t test some of the other features, you really, really helped me find some new ones!” She said as she pulled him up and hugged him tightly. Owlick stood as still as before, but less fear and more embarrassment. Her smile simply widened as she squeezed him a little more. He quickly wrapped his arms around her as if her life was at stake. “Really, thank you for helping.” She said quietly. He nodded quickly and tightened the hug. She giggled quietly, “You really like me don’t you.” She said. He nodded just as fast. Twilight simply smiled a little more and kissed his cheek. He slowly fell from her grip and went limp on the floor. She lifted him back up with her magic. “Come on you need to lay down for a bit.” She laughed as she hovered him back to her room. She set him down on the bed and sat down on a nearby chair before hovering a book into her hands. His eyes were wide open and he was staring at the ceiling. “Owlick?” Twilight asked. He twitched violently, as if startled from a dream as he looked at her.

She chuckled. “You look like you need some sleep.” She said. He shook his head and sat upright. “Okay then.” She shrugged. Owlick stood up and tugged on her arm, motioning to the bed. “Oh? You want me to join you?” She grinned. His arm’s tugging slowed to a stop and he stood with his mouth open again. She stood up and laid him back down before sitting down beside him. Owlick lied with his arms to his sides and motionlessly stared up at the purple unicorn. She smiled down at him before laying down beside him. He lied still, seeming as if he didn’t know what to do. She gently hugged him and let his head lay against her breasts. His arms and legs started to flail almost immediately. She chuckled and let go of him. He slipped off the bed and tumbled to the floor. “Are you alright?” Twilight asked as she peeked over the bed at him. He slowly shook his head, as if unsure. “That’s not good… You should lay down on a bed.” She smiled as he was teleported back up onto the bed and into her arms. He continued to lie absolutely still. “Hey… Owlick.” She said quietly. He looked at her quickly and waited. She giggled quietly before kissing his forehead. “Go to sleep.” He nodded and closed his eyes the next moment. She squeezed his head back into her bosom and smiled a little more.. He gave a small smile before the warm embrace of Twilight pushed him into slumber.

A few hours later:

Owlick twitched slightly and curled up against Twilight. She nuzzled closer in her own sleep and sighed peacefully at his warmth. “Nmm… Yes mommy…” He mumbled. Her eyes suddenly shot open and she glanced around the room.

“Huh? Who was that?” She questioned. She looked down at Owlick after she realized there wasn’t anyone else in the room. “Wha… y… I…” She mumbled. He mumbled something inaudibly before pressing his face into her chest. She continued to stare at him, now at a loss for words. Owlick’s eyes opened slowly and he looked up at her, a smile washing over his sleepy face as he waved slowly. “You… you can actually talk?” She questioned, her mouth still wide open in disbelief. He tilted his head curiously, but his expression that as if he was trying to hide something (but obviously not very good at it). “Owlick. I heard you talking.” She stated. He continued to stare at her for a moment before nodding. She continued to stare silently at him for a moment. “Do you know what you said?” She asked, though it was obvious she already knew the answer. He shook his head. “You called me mommy.” She said. The emotions seemed to slowly drain from his face. “I actually think that’s kind of cute.” She smiled as she hugged him tightly. He didn’t seemed embarrassed, but more sad. She was silent for a moment. “Oh… oh did… something happen to your mom?” She asked hesitantly, as if she didn’t want to press it too far. He raised a hand and pointed to himself. “You?” She said. There was a long pause.

“She died in childbirth, when I was born.” He said quietly.

“Oh…” She said quietly.

“When I was old enough to talk, that’s when my dad started to hurt me.” He said. She remained quiet as she looked at him. “He said he hated my voice, he hated me. Every time I spoke he hit me… because it just reminded me that I killed his wife.” She closed her eyes and took in a few deep breaths in an attempt to keep calm. “Eventually I just stopped talking… And he stopped hitting me. At least, for awhile. It just became constant, every day. But I knew if I talked, it would just come quicker.” She looked at him again as a few tears welled up. “I… I just…” He trailed off into a mumble as he started to sob uncontrollably, curling up onto the bed. Twilight pulled him in close and squeezed him.

“Shh… shh…” She said quietly as she quietly started to cry herself. “That won’t ever… ever happen again…” She started. He shook as more tears started to slide down his face. “Everyone that calls this ship home is going to make sure of it… you’re NEVER going to go through that again… not as long as I’m here with you.” She said a little more firmly as she hugged him a little tighter.

“I just want him to love me…” He sobbed quietly. She remained quiet. His tears slowed to a stop as he looked up at Twilight.

“Owlick…” She said quietly. He stared into her eyes silently for a moment.

“Twilight…” He started.

“I love you.” Twilight said before she slowly put her lips to his. Owlick’s eyes shut, squeezing out the last of his tears as he hugged her. She pulled back and gently nuzzled his neck. “Can you do something for me?” She asked. He nodded slowly. “Can you please never stop talking to me?” She asked, “Even if you don’t want to talk to anyone else… I love how your voice sounds, and I love talking to you.”

Owlick stared at her before an almost comically large smile grew on his face. “You know…” He started.

“What do I know?” She asked with a smile.

“You’d make an amazing mother.” He said, hugging her tightly and resting his head on her shoulder.

“Oh, really?” She grinned. He just nodded, not meaning it in any sexual way as he refused to let go of her. “Well thank you.” She said as she returned the hug. His face slowly slid down back into her breasts. “You really like it down there don’t you?”

“Ysh.” He said through her fluff bags, shaking his head rapidly as he motorboated her breasts. “Blbllblbphhblhlph.” She sighed and giggled quietly.

“Well then, you just enjoy yourself.” She smiled. Owlick pulled his head away as a thought occurred to him. He smiled and jumped off the bed, scavenging for something beneath it. “What are you looking for?”

He pulled out a medium sized box and set it on the bed. Owlick opened it and pulled out a bag full of green grass and a large pipe.

“Wh…” Twilight started. “You…” He stuffed some of the weeds into the pipe and pressed a button. Steam started to rise out from the hole and he handed it to Twilight. “Um, I don’t smoke.” She said. “You just go ahead and enjoy yourself with that…”

“It’s not smoke, it’s steam. The chemical from the grass is transferred to the water, and the water is turned into steam. Completely healthy for your lungs.” He laughed.

“That’s not really… I just don’t use drugs.” Twilight said. He shrugged and took a deep puff, holding it in for a moment before steam came out his nose. He smiled widely before setting the pipe down and turning a knob on it. It began to release steam at a higher rate, slowly filling the room. He fell back onto the bed and stared up at her. She closed her eyes and inhaled slowly. After a few moments she just stuck out her hand. He lifted the pipe into her hands and laughed. She stared at him for a good minute before slowly taking a puff, the steam just billowed out her nostrils before she handed it back to him.

“How do you feel?” He asked as it took it and set it back on the bed.

“Good. I don’t know how else to explain it.” She said. Owlick smiled and pulled her atop him into a hug. She hugged him back. “This is nice.” She sighed as she laid her head down beside his.

“You’re nice.” He retorted, kissing her forehead.

“You’re cute.” She smiled, kissing him back. He stared at her for a moment before practically headbutting her with a kiss and rolling over so he was on top. She grabbed his head and held him there for a few moments before pushing him back. “I’m tired.” She stated as she hugged him tightly. He pressed his face into her neck and held her tightly against himself. “Goodnight.” She whispered.

“Hey.” A voice whispered. Twilight groaned softly, turning away from the voice. A finger prodded her cheek.

“Whaaat!” She grumbled loudly. It wasn’t until she felt a hand groping her breast that she snapped her eyes open, now face to face with Spike.

“Morning.” He said casually.

Twilight’s horn started to glow brightly as she glared at Spike. He slowly retracted his hand, not moving from his spot. “That’s better.” She said, her magic dying down.

“How’d you sleep?” He asked.

“Great.” Twilight said. “Where’s Owlick?”

“Uh… Recalibrating some stuff, as usual. Why does that matter?” Spike asked inquisitively, seeming intrigued by the odd question.

“Why were you in my room groping my breast?” She questioned.

“Why are you on my ship complaining?” Spike raised an eyebrow, poking her boob again.

“So just because it’s your ship give you the right to touch MY body?” Twilight questioned.

“Yes.” Spike nodded, poking her again.

Twilight slapped Spike across the face. “I mean no, of course not.” He grunted, rubbing his face.

“That’s better.” Twilight said.

“So why did you want to know where Owlick is? You two sleep together while we were gone or something?” Spike questioned.

“No.” Twilight stated.

“You sure?” He asked again.

“I’m sure.” Twilight said. He paused for a moment.

“Why not?”

Twilight put her hand on his face and pushed him out of the bed with a thud before rolling over and closing her eyes. Two fingers pulled her left eye open. “Hey.” Spike whispered.

“Go away.” Twilight groaned.

“You might need to get up.” Spike added.

“Why?” Twilight questioned. There was a loud banging on the door.

“No reason.” Spike said calmly.

“Spike.” Twilight started.

“Maybe if we ignore it, it’ll go away.” He continued.

“What is it?” Twilight asked. The banging grew more ferocious and a low hissing was heard, like a large snake.

“Shhhh…” Spike whispered.

“Spike… wh… what did you bring onto the ship?” Twilight asked in a quieter voice.

“I don’t technically think the species has been identified yet.” Spike said.

Twilight paused for a solid minute. “And… you still brought it on the ship?” She questioned.

“It wasn’t my fault, it was Bulk’s.” Spike stated.

“Why was it his fault?” Twilight questioned.

“I’ll tell you when I know.” Spike assured. The noise stopped suddenly, leaving the two in utter silence.

“Did you warn everybody else?” Twilight asked.

“Oh yeah, they know.” Spike nodded. A metal clunking was heard above them. “And it’s in the vents.”

“That’s just great.” Twilight groaned.

“Okay, serious time.” Spike stated, grabbing Twilight tightly and forcing her to look at him. “If you see it, close your eyes.”

“Why?” Twilight asked slowly.

“It’s complicated, just don’t look it in the eyes and you’ll be fine.” Spike assured, patting her head and standing up.

“Do you have a plan to recapture it and send it back?” Twilight asked.

“One step at a time.” He said slowly.

“So… we’re just supposed to accept that there’s a dangerous creature on board the ship?” Twilight questioned.

“Well I don’t think we have a choice on what is real and what isn’t, so yea-” Spike stopped when he looked up at the ceiling.

“Spike?” Twilight asked quietly. Spike didn’t move, standing locked in the position. “I… It’s in here isn’t it?” She mumbled. Moments later, Spike fell to the floor. It seemed he was paralysed, the only part of him moving were his eyes, staring and following something on the ceiling. “Spike!” She said quickly. His eyes slowly shifted, now staring directly behind Twilight. She stiffened up and quickly shut her eyes. Something coiled up her arm slowly, a soft breathing on her neck as a tongue hissed out and rubbed her cheek. She remained utterly still keeping her eyes shut as tightly as possible. The tongue hissed out of the creature’s mouth once more, tickling her eyelid gently. Her eyelid twitched but she refused to open it. She felt it releasing her arm, and its’ weight being removed from the bed. It wasn’t until she heard the metallic clinging as it slithered back into the vent. She slowly peeked open her eyes. Spike was still lying on the ground, and she saw the two were alone in the room. The door slid open and Sweetie bolted in, swinging a bat around wildly, a blindfold around her eyes.

“GET OUT OF MY SHIP!” Sweetie shouted. Spike’s eyes shifted accusingly to her, thinking ‘Your ship?’

“Sweetie it’s not in here anymore!” Twilight said quickly. Sweetie tripped over Spike’s motionless body, tumbling to the floor with a grunt as the bat slid underneath the bed. Twilight’s magic lifted the blindfold from Sweetie’s eyes and their gazes met.

“Oh hey, you’re awake.” Sweetie noticed.

“Yes. I am.” Twilight sighed. Sweetie turned to Spike, her eyes wide in fear.

“Spike?!” Sweetie grabbed Spike and started shaking him.

“He’s still alive. Just paralyzed.” Twilight said.

“Okay… Let’s get him to the bridge. Bulk should be there waiting for us.” Sweetie said, standing up and lifting Spike up with her magic. Twilight was on her feet in an instant as the two (three) of them slowly made their way out and into the hall.

“We’re probably going to need help catching this thing.” Twilight said.

“Yeah… catching.” Sweetie nodded in reluctant agreement.

“Well we wouldn’t have to if someone wouldn’t have let it onboard the ship.” Twilight said.

“It was Bulk.” Sweetie stated.

“And why did he let it onboard?” Twilight questioned.

“I’ll tell you when I know.” Sweetie shrugged. The sound of banging was heard above them.

“We need to get to the cockpit right now.” Twilight said quickly. The banging seemed to be following them as they headed down the hall. As they sped up, so did it.

Twilight’s horn started to glow. “Get ready.” She whispered to Sweetie. There was a bright violet flash and they were now inside the cockpit. Bulk was sitting in the pilot’s seat, facing out the front window. “Bulk?” Twilight questioned.

“Now before you say anything Bulk, it wasn’t my fault.” Sweetie assured quickly.

Twilight stared at the back of Bulk’s head for a moment, “Damn it.” She muttered.

“What?” Sweetie questioned.

“Bulk.” Twilight said again. Sweetie walked up to Bulk and twisted him around, the two seeing his eyes were open, but he wasn’t moving (except for his eyes).

“Oh…” Sweetie mumbled.

“Damn it all…” Twilight said quietly. Twilight noticed something strange however. Bulk and Spike’s eyes were scanning the room, seeming to be looking for something. “Sweetie…” Twilight whispered motioning the other unicorn towards what she had noticed. Sweetie however, was focused on the terminal in front of her. One of the buttons was blinking. Twilight looked at the blinking button. When Sweetie pressed it, the monitor flipped on and they were met with a live camera feed of an empty chair, a figure standing in the background, seeming busy at work on something. “Hello?” Twilight said. The figure froze for a moment before turning back. It slipped its’ hood down and rushed over. It seemed to be a zebra, female. Her eyes were scanning Spike and Bulk, a look of concern in her eyes.

“You let it out?” The zebra questioned.

“We didn’t.” Twilight said. “He did.” She motioned to Bulk. “But yes it’s out. Though what exactly is it?”

“A rare breed… I believe the term would be ‘Naga’” The zebra said.

“I’ve heard of them. My sister’s best friend used to scare me when I was a kid with stories involving them… But I don’t remember them paralysing people.” Sweetie added.

“As I said, rare. This specific naga comes from a line of Basilisks.” The zebra said. “Interesting abilities, strange hunting methods.”

“How are we supposed to stop it?” Twilight asked, “And get rid of the paralysis it causes?”

“Well, one way is to get it far enough away from the victims in order to break the psychic connection.” The zebra added.

“What psychic connection?” Sweetie asked curiously.

“Whoever looks it in the eyes forms a connection with the creature so it can see.” The zebra responded.

“That’s… very interesting.” Twilight said. “It sounds like a really effective way of hunting… except they’re paralyzed…”

“Oh, dear, it’s the perfect way to hunt. The creature is blind.” The zebra added.

“It’s… blind?” Sweetie questioned. The two of them immediately grew a burning curiosity for how this thing was following them.

“Each person it forms a link with is a new pair of eyes.” The zebra nodded. Sweetie and Twilight’s hearts skipped in sync. They both turned to Spike and Bulk, their eyes glued to the ceiling. “It only has to see itself to know that it’s close.”

“It’d be in our best interests to make sure they aren’t looking up at the ceiling then.” Twilight said.

“Why not?” Sweetie cocked her head.

“Then it won’t know if it’s close as it won’t see itself.” Twilight continued. Bulk’s eyes turned to Twilight, but Spike’s stayed locked on the ceiling. “I have a feeling we might need to do it now, rather then anytime later!”

A gentle hiss rang through the room from above.

“Sweetie… close your eyes now.” Twilight said as she snapped her eyes shut tightly. Sweetie, however, noticed something interesting. Their zebra friend was staring at something above them, but didn’t seem to be affected.

“It… doesn’t work with cameras.” Sweetie’s eyes widened as the eureka moment hit her right in the face.

“Interesting. I never knew it had yellow eyes.” The zebra remarked.

“It doesn’t?” Twilight asked quickly, seeming to share the moment. Both Bulk and Spike’s eyes snapped to Sweetie almost instantly. Sweetie shot back, more from surprise than anything. It seemed as though the creature was not happy about her discovery. A loud hissing was heard, but this time from within the room. Sweetie closed her eyes tightly, her body beginning to shake slightly. Twilight held her eyes shut even tighter and tried to remain motionless. It only took a couple steps for Twilight to realize what she was leaning against was not the wall.

“Sweetie…” Twilight started slowly.

“Uh huh?” Sweetie asked uncertainly.

“Your walls don’t have scales do they.” Twilight’s question was so absurd it even made her cringe.

“N-no…” Sweetie shook her head.

“O-oh… that’s…” Twilight murmured. What coiled around Twilight was something that caught her off guard. Instead of something long or slimey… they were two arms. Twilight squeezed her eyes shut even tighter and tried desperately not to think about the arms, though she was failing miserably.

“Well hello.” The zebra’s voice startled Twilight and Sweetie. The creature’s arms tightened around Twilight, hissing directly into her ear. Bulk and Spike’s eyes drifted to the screen, giving the zebra a menacing glare. Sweetie’s eyes slowly cracked open, seeing the two pairs of eyes no longer in her direction. Sweetie’s eyes slowly turned to Twilight, keeping them as low as possible. She saw the snake’s tail, growing larger as it lead up to the actual beast above. Or, was it a beast? Her confusion grew slightly as the scaly, grey snake half ended a ways up, leading to an upper-half of another pony. The pony had pale, white skin, but that’s all the courage she had, not going any further north.

“Sweetie…” Twilight started, fear consuming her voice. All eyes locked on Twilight. Bulk’s eyes caught Sweetie, the two eyes shooting her a look of surprise. She barely had time to close her eyes as a blur shot in her direction and grabbed her. Sweetie flinched and tilted her head downwards in a further attempt to never look the creature in its eyes.

“You don’t have to harm them, this isn’t necessary.” The zebra’s voice rang out. The creature’s tail slammed onto the screen, cracking it and making her face flicker from view. Sweetie flinched even more and tightened her eyelids further. Something started coiling around her legs and up her body to mingle with the two arms as they embraced Sweetie tightly. Sweetie tried her best to remain motionless and not to show anymore fear. The only thought that was going through her head was that she was going to die here.

“Ssss… no need to ssssay anything.” A gentle, feminine hiss whispered. Sweetie refused to move her head and just kept silent. “Come now child, open your eyes and witness… beauty.” The creature cooed gently, its’ hand sliding across Sweetie’s cheek.

“No…” Sweetie said.

“Mmm you smell just divine… how do I smell?” The creature asked. A smell wafted into both Twilight and Sweetie’s nose. It smelled like something familiar, but they couldn’t quite tell what it was. It wasn’t bad though. Sweetie just remained silent refusing to answer the question. “Oh come now… you might as well humor me, you’re not leaving this ship. So let’s… passsss the time?”

“I… I don’t know… It’s… so familiar though…” Sweetie muttered.

“And there’s the magic…” The creature continued. “My pheromones mimic what it comes in contact with. Your taste buds, your nose… It makes a pleasant sense, mixed from your own memory. Something familiar, yet distant. Easy to lure animals… and unsuspecting travelers.”

“That’s…” Sweetie started for a moment.

“Fascinating.” Twilight stated.

“I like your friend, she’s nice.” The creature added.

“Why does that matter? You’re just going to kill us and remain trapped out here.” Sweetie said.

“Oh please, if I wished to kill you… why would I not just do it?” It asked with a mock laughter.

“You’re still going to die out here.” Sweetie said.

“Oh, on the contrary. You see, we’re on course for a rather densely populated planet. It only takes one message to this ship, with no response, for them to send a… ‘rescue’ party.” It snickered gently.

Sweetie grimaced at that thought. “I’ll let you live. Think of it as a thank you. You did offer me freedom, and a nice picnic to… mm, ‘Chow down on’?” It added.

“Why would you just let us live? That doesn’t seem to make much sense…” Sweetie said.

“I’m not evil… just hungry. How do you ponies say… You scratch my back, I don’t eat yours?” It laughed.

“Yet you’re going to go to a densely populated planet… and just kill the living creatures on it. It’s not even like it’s the one you’re from!” Sweetie snapped.

“Oh don’t tell me you’re a vegetarian... as if your kind has never killed before. We do what we must to survive, nothing more, nothing less.” It corrected, a light and wet object tickled Sweetie’s nose, obviously the creature’s tongue. “And what would you have me do, go vegan?” It mused.

“Nn…” Sweetie bit down on her lip.

“Ah, now you understand.” It chuckled, it’s tone that of victory. “It was your kind that stole me from my home. Studied me, prodded me…” Her tone becoming a tad annoyed as her tail tightened around Sweetie. Sweetie whimpered quietly and quivered in the tightened grasp around her body. “I watched as my kind was hunted to extinction. And why? Fear… you know nothing about fear.” It hissed, Sweetie’s muscles aching as the constriction grew tighter. Sweetie let out a small groan and began to shake a tiny bit.

“Look at me.” It ordered, squeezing the air from Sweetie’s lungs. Her magic flared to life, only to fizzle out as the vice grew twice as strong, snapping her concentration to a haze of suffocation. Sweetie in the face of death, slowly cracked open her eyes. The moment the creature came into vision, her body grew limp. Their zebra friend was right, she had yellow eyes. That’s all that they were… no iris, just a solid yellow. But the naga wasn’t the only thing she saw. There was someone behind her. The emotion slowly drained from the creature’s face as the figure raised a device to the snake’s side and clicked it on. The sound of electricity fluctuated through the room as it tensed up. Sweetie wanted to scream, but nothing escaped the paralysed grip she was in as waves of the electricity hit her as well. It was then that she saw Twilight was on the ground, seeming to have lost the battle earlier. Everyone under its’ spell was locked up in pain, as if receiving the jolt as well. When the sound died down, the snake woman went limp, dropping Sweetie from its’ grasp. After a few moments of silence, Sweetie and Twilight felt their muscles twitch, and the will to speak return.

“Oh… thank god…” Sweetie gasped. The unfamiliar figure stared down at the two through its’ welder mask.

“Thanks…?” Twilight stammered weakly. He raised his mask, revealing Owlick beneath the gettup. He smiled and waved, making Twilight practically scream with joy.

“My head…” Spike’s voice made Sweetie’s heart flutter with happiness. Bulk seemed generally confused.

“When did you all get here?” Bulk cocked his head. He looked down at the naga and practically fell from the chair he was in.

“Bulk…” Sweetie started, looking over at him.

“Is that what we were hauling?” Bulk asked.

“Well… let’s… get it into the container and make sure it stays shut.” Sweetie mumbled. Owlick was on the ground, hugging Twilight (who clearly would have returned it if she had the strength).

“Did something happen?” Spike asked, attempting to raise his arms in a futile attempt as they fell back to the floor.

“It almost killed me…” Sweetie said, refusing to look at the naga.

“Are you okay??” Spike’s tone becoming more worried than anything.

“Now… I am…” Sweetie nodded slowly. Bulk stood up and walked over to the unconscious creature. Everyone seemed shocked at how easily he was moving. “Bulk… h-how are you moving?”

“You ever work out for too long and your muscles are killing you after?” Bulk asked, turning to everyone else. Twilight just shook her head, no surprise to anyone.

“No.” Sweetie said.

Bulk just rolled his eyes. “This is nothing.” He added, dragging the snake by its tail out of the room. Spike’s brows furrowed, looking down at his own muscles. He slowly raised his shirt up and stared at his semi-flat stomach with the rare ab muscle.

Sweetie bit back a giggle. She glanced over to Twilight, seeing her and Owlick having a bit of making up on their own. “Get a room…” Spike groaned.

“That’s… a little new.” Sweetie said.

“We talked a bit earlier, got to know each other…” Twilight said, her attention not shifting from Owlick. “I… I mean uh… I talked. Yeah, that.” Twilight’s eyes grew in what could only be described as horror. “He listened, you know.”

“Uh huh…” Sweetie nodded slowly. “What’s that look about?”

Before Twilight could utter another word, she was lifted up by the feathered mechanic and carried out of the room, leaving only two people left in the bridge. Spike had a look of sadness in his eyes, staring at the floor.

“Spike?” Sweetie questioned, looking at him. He just shook his head and continued his silent routine. “Spike.” She repeated a bit more forcefully. “We’re a crew. Why should there be any secrets between any of us anymore?”

“I fucked up, okay?” Spike looked up at her. Sweetie’s heart sank as she looked at him. The first time she has ever seen something from him like this. He was… crying.

“What… happened?” Sweetie asked quietly. Her muscles started to grow stronger as the paralysis left her body.

“It’s all my fault. I shouldn’t have accepted this mission…” His voice was shaky, cracking every other word.

“Spike…” Sweetie mumbled, slowly moving over to him.

“You could have died… I don’t know what I’d…” Spike just broke down, curling up as tears began to drip onto the floor. Sweetie wrapped her arms around him and held him as tightly as she could manage. No words could escape his mouth, only whimpers and sobs. She remained silent and just pressed even closer to him. Spike grew quiet in her arms, holding on tightly to his lover as if it was the last time he’d ever see her.

“Spike… none of us died… that’s good…”

“I know.” Spike nodded slowly.

“You can’t… dwell on what could have. If you do then what’s the point of what did?” She asked. Spike stayed quiet for a few moments.

“I have you…” He smiled gently. “And I’m still trying to find the point of why I ‘did’ you.”

“Oh, be quiet.” Sweetie laughed, hugging him tightly and laying her head down against his chest. Spike nestled himself in his favorite new bed of marshmallow fluff, licking her neck and tickling it gently. Sweetie giggled and shook slightly, “Stoooop…”

Spike pushed her onto her back as he climbed on top, continuing to tickle her and touch every inch of her body he could find, just to make sure he wouldn’t forget that she was still there.

“Noooo, knooock it oooofff!” Sweetie groaned loudly. Spike’s smile returned in full force, sliding his hands between her and the floor before nuzzling Sweetie’s chest once more. “Thank you…” She smiled, hugging him again. Spike’s eyes wandered over to something else, his entire body slumping over in what appeared to be sadness. “What’s wrong? I told you I’m fine…”

“No… it broke my screen.” Spike pointed to the front monitor.

“We can fix it… it’s not too bad of a loss.” Sweetie sighed.

“That’s not the point.” Spike stated. A light started blinking from the console below the monitors. Spike’s tail swung out and clicked a button, making a familiar voice ring out from the speakers.

“Hello?” The zebra from earlier questioned.

“You’re a dick.” Spike called out.

“I probably should have talked of the dangers it posed, and the caution you should have showed…” She said in a half-regretful tone.

“I am going to hit you.” Spike stated. He turned back to Sweetie and whispered, “I’m going to hit her.”

“I know you are Spikey.” Sweetie nodded.

“A question… how did it escape?” The voice asked.

“Well, it…” Spike started, seeming to trail off as he thought of any possible reason how it could have gotten out.

“That… is a good question…” Sweetie nodded slowly.

“Well, there are cameras on the ship. Maybe we could look at the footage and see.” Spike started, turning to the broken monitor. “Oh…”

“Wait… since when were there camera’s on the ship?” Sweetie questioned. Spike’s eyes slowly turned to Sweetie as if caught doing something… naughty.

“...security.” Spike answered slowly.

“Uh huh.” Sweetie nodded slowly.

“I’ll just uh… get Owlick to fix the monitor.” Spike added in an attempt to change the subject.

“Spike.” Sweetie stated.

“Whaaaat?” Spike whined, his tone almost childlike.

“You know what.” She said, glaring at him.

“I’m the only one who has access to it… and besides, you shouldn’t be ashamed of your body.” Spike countered, attempting to turn the blame to her.

“That’s not getting you anywhere but the dog house.” Sweetie said bluntly.

“Okay, I’ll take the camera out of the bathroom. If you get attacked in there then it’s your fault!” Spike rolled his eyes.

“Perv.” Sweetie stated. Spike simply pulled her against his body.

“But you have to promise me one thing.” He added.

“And what do I have to promise you?” She questioned.

“That we’ll take more showers together.” Spike’s sharp teeth were seen as he smiled, trying to avoid laughing at his (obviously) serious demand.

“Hm… one more condition that can happen…” Sweetie started. Spike raised an eyebrow and stared down at her patiently. “I’m going to monitor your camera… habits. To cut down on you perving on me and Twilight.”

“You AND Twilight? So you’re saying the two of you…” Spike started slowly.

“No. I’m not.” Sweetie said.

“Oh, alright. Was gonna say… how’d I miss that.” Spike scratched his head.

“What am I going to do with you…” Sweetie sighed, shaking her head. Spike looked at one of the smaller screens on the front and pulled himself to his feet. He walked over and fell into the pilot’s chair, sighing extensively.

“Padded chairs feel much better than steel floor.” Spike laughed, motioning her over to the co-pilot’s seat. Sweetie slowly got up and sat down in the chair he indicated.

“Yes… yes they are.” Sweetie nodded in agreement. Spike flipped a switch and two screens clicked on, a small one in front of each seat. They were almost like portable televisions, but seemed good enough for watching footage. “Alright… let’s see the security footage.” She said, watching the screen. A picture of the bedroom the two of them had been sleeping in popped up. Spike and Sweetie were sitting on the bed, slipping on clothing. Based on the outfits they were putting on, they remembered where they were about to go. Spike instinctively flicked another switch, switching to another camera just in time to see the two leaving the ship. This footage wasn’t too long ago, when they had said goodbye to Owlick and Twilight. Sweetie’s thoughts drifted to what they could have done all alone together… “Hmm… I wonder…” Sweetie said aloud.

“What?” Spike cocked his head to her, his mindset obviously attached to finding out about the Naga. There really only needs to be one person looking for that though…

“Uh… Nothing. Don’t worry… just look for whatever let the naga out.” Sweetie said dismissively. Sweetie’s eyes turned down to the controls, flicking random buttons. As if fate had agreed with her decision, the camera flickered for a moment and showed Twilight’s room. Her and Owlick were lying in bed together. “Oh… this is good…” Sweetie muttered under her breath. “And cute…” She smiled a little. The sound of silence was broken by a voice Sweetie had not heard previously.

“Nmm… Yes mommy…”

The two simple words shocked her. Not because of what they meant, but because of who they were uttered by.

“Oh my god.” Sweetie said loudly, her eyes widening.

“What’s wrong, did you find anything?” Spike turned to her.

“Uh… nothing about the naga… but it’s… uh something.” Sweetie said slowly. Spike’s head slowly turned back to the screen, leaving her to the interesting find. “I guess… I’ll show you later then.” She muttered. Minutes passed as she watched the two chatter. Her heart slowly started to bleed at the wrenching conversation. Tears came quickly to Sweetie’s eyes and she sniffled silently to herself. “Oh… oh my… g-god…” Sweetie mumbled quietly, trying her best to suck back her tears.

“Sweetie? What’s wrong?” Spike’s voice made her cringe almost immediately. The thought that perhaps Owlick didn’t want everyone to know took hold of her mind at the footsteps of Spike made its way closer.

“Uh… n-nothing.” Sweetie said, quickly switching to another camera. Spike stared down at her tears, his expression of panic.

“I didn’t know it bothered you that much… I’ll get Owlick to remove the cameras right away.” Spike assured quickly.

“No! No! I-It’s not the camera’s!” She said quickly. “It’s just… s-something I just remembered… It’s… u-uh nothing… nothing you need to worry about… Did, you find out what happened yet?” She wiped her tears away and looked at him.

“No… but I’m almost at the scene, so… Are you sure you’re okay? Tears aren’t okay, that is the generally the opposite of okay.” He asked, reaching over and grabbing her hand.

“I’m fine.” She said, nodding a little. Spike reluctantly nodded, pulling her to the other terminal.

“Okay, so here we go.” Spike mumbled, hitting play. The two saw the crate sitting alone in the cargo bay. Nothing was happening, only the sound of silence.

“Okay.” She said, as if expecting him to have shown her something less… boring. Something started poking from one of the air holes. It was an eerily familiar pale hand. Maybe they didn’t quite measure how thin the naga’s slender upper body was. The arm moved down, sliding around the outside of the box for something. “Oh…” She muttered quietly, watching the screen intently now. The naga’s hand slid down until it hit the lock, freezing immediately as she felt it up and down. Shortly after, the hand retreated back into the cage. Sweetie waited almost patiently for the next event to occur. The next time the hand extended from the box, it was holding something. A key… “How the hell did she get ahold of a key?” Sweetie questioned, sounding genuinely surprised.

“It’s pretty resourceful. I’m just trying to understand why it didn’t kill us.” Spike questioned, scratching his chin as he watched. Sweetie knew all too well the reason, her heart practically seizing at the mention.

“Uh…” Sweetie started. “I… um know why.”

“Hold on, look.” Spike pointed. Sweetie looked back down at the screen, the naga now in full view. It seemed to be enjoying the freedom from her prison before taking the key and… swallowing it.

“Oh that’s not good.” Sweetie said.

“That means… it still has the key.” Spike’s words trailed off slowly, turning to Sweetie. They both tensed up at the sound of the bridge door opening. When they looked, it was Bulk.

“Hey, everything’s taken care o- Why are you looking at me like that?” Bulk’s brows furrowed at the two’s panicked expression.

“We need to move the naga to another cage and fast!” Sweetie stammered.

“I just locked it up, we’re fine.” Bulk chuckled, walking over to the empty co-pilot and sitting down. Spike was already on his feet and out of the room.

“It has a key!” Sweetie said as she too jumped up and quickly followed Spike. When Sweetie and Spike hit the cargo bay, they saw the crate was where it was in the video, lock still attached. Spike approached the crate and stopped, his mind blanking almost immediately.

“Uh…” Spike started.

“What’s wrong?” Sweetie asked cautiously, her eyes darting between Spike and the box.

“Well… I don’t really have a key.” Spike admitted.

“Really.” Sweetie said blandly.

“They never gave us one, just the box…” Spike continued.

“What.” Sweetie said in disbelief. “What the fuck was wrong with them?”

“Well they probably hadn’t planned on us letting it go. That’s usually what a key is for.” Spike stated.

“I know but that begs the question, how’d they let it get a hold of a key?” Sweetie said.

“Okay, all we have to do is stay here and make sure it doesn’t reach out and unlock it, right?” Spike asked in a more hopeful manner.

“Wait… couldn’t there be some way that we could… I don’t know, block the lock? So there’s no chance of it reaching it?” She asked. Spike’s eyes darted around momentarily before beaming with a smile. He ran over to the lock and took a deep breath. A shroud of green flame surrounded the lock, but only for a moment. The keyhole melted into an unorthodox shape. It certainly wasn’t opening any time soon. Spike turned back to Sweetie, giving her two thumbs up. “Great! Now… let’s get back to the cockpit.” She smiled.

“Well I can’t really do that with your clothes on.” Spike joked, practically tackling her with his lips as he drew them to several different areas of her body.

“Stoop that!” Sweetie giggled and squirmed.

“Time to appreciate what I have.” Spike hummed with a softer, and more passionate kiss on her neck.

“Ah… right here?” Sweetie asked, letting out a soft moan.

“My ship…” He added, not even hesitating to slip a hand into her pants and grope the perfect flesh contained at the bottom of her spine.

“My… ah… body…” She interjected.

“I don’t recall giving it back.” Spike teased with a laugh.

“Uh huh.” Sweetie said almost blandly, staring at him. Spike just stared at her without another word, slowly kneading her backside in a manner as if he was trying not to get caught doing it. “You know we left the camera screens on right?” Sweetie asked, biting down on her lip.

“Yeah, and? You did say they were alright…” Spike’s brows furrowed in confusion.

“Bulk’s in the cockpit right now.” She added.

“Phh… you know what? Interest lost.” Spike groaned, twisting around and throwing his hands up in defeat.

Sweetie rolled her eyes, “Hm. Let’s just go back up to the cockpit then.” She sighed as she walked back towards the entrance of the cargo bay. Spike just sighed and followed behind her. When they entered the cockpit, they saw a planet that wasn’t there before. They could only assume it was their destination. “Great we’re here!” Sweetie said.

“You know what?” Spike said as a sudden realization struck him.

“What?” Sweetie asked.

“The zebra never even gave us her name.” Spike continued.

“Zecora.” The voice of their very relevant benefactor rang through one of the speakers in the hall. Spike shot back, eyes wide and a hand on his chest.

“Well… uh… that’s a little disconcerting… but then again why would smashing the screen have ended the transmission?” Sweetie said, still slightly startled.

“Indeed, I assume you caught it. If you did then you probably wouldn’t be here.” Zecora asked.

“Yeah… it’s locked up and it won’t be getting out again for a long time.” Sweetie said.

“And like I said, I’m going to hit you.” Spike snapped.

“I look forward to it.” Zecora laughed before the speakers clicked off.

“You know what… after everything that happened today. I’m going to go to bed early.” Sweetie sighed.

“Pay Owlick a visit and thank him for both of us, I gotta go talk with Bulk.” Spike asked, heading up to the pilot’s seat next to Bulk.

“Alright. Will do.” Sweetie said, walking back out of the cockpit. She passed by Twilight’s room (which was now Owlick’s as well), and knocked on the door. “You guys in there?” She asked through the door. The only response she received was the faint murmur of electricity from the ship itself, and the hum of it’s engines. “I… just wanted to say thank you for saving us. And… I uh… and… I wanted to say, I’m… happy that you two are together.”

There was still no response. The idea that they could be asleep seems just as likely, as it was unlikely. It was certainly too quiet for what her other assumption she had in mind for what they may be doing. She sighed and stepped away from the door, not wanting to either wake them up or disturb them further. It wasn’t until a small crash emanating from Twilight’s room that she grew slightly more curious. She re-approached the door and pressed her ear to it. There were no footsteps, no activity whatsoever. She was befuddled to say the least. She furrowed her brow and was determined to find out what was going on inside the room. She stepped back once more and her horn began to glow as she prepared to just teleport herself in there. The door slid open, as if sensing her presence out of no where. She stepped back, honestly expecting the silence to stay, but was sadly mistaken at the sight of Twilight’s unkempt room. Now THAT was truly odd. Sweetie’s horn stopped glowing and she stepped back up to the door and peeked inside. She saw a familiar male figure lying on the bed, facing away. Maybe he was sleeping? She bit her lip as she felt bad for trying to wake him up, but still… the mess inside of Twilight’s room and the lack of Twilight being there was striking her as odd. She leaned further into the room in a greater attempt to see more of the room.

The dark room grew more defined. She couldn’t tell what had happened, only that Twilight wasn’t here, and Owlick was asleep. She sighed and leaned back out of the room, slowly turning around to walk away. Her legs lead her back to the cargo area, staring at the crate. “I know you’re awake in there, being tased can only knock you out for so long.” Sweetie announced to the world. She was unfortunately greeted with silence. She let out a long sigh, “Alright…” She muttered as she turned around to walk back to her room. Then again, the thought that the naga wasn’t the most well-tempered creature when caged came to mind. Especially when beaten. Sweetie closed her eyes for a moment as she thought about what she should do next. “Mm…” She mumbled to herself. There was a small rustling from within the box, surprising her. She turned around and faced the cage. “So you are awake.” She said loudly. The rustling stopped almost immediately. “Stop pretending. I heard you in there.” She stated.

“Where’s here?” Twilight’s muffled voice rang groggily from the crate.

“Oh god.” Sweetie said, her eyes widening. “But… you were with…”

Sweetie’s voice caught in her throat as the realization hit her. She spun back around and bolted to Twilight’s room. Owlick was still in the bed right where he was when she left. She slowly walked up to the bed and shook him in an attempt to wake him up. “Owlick?” Sweetie shouted. Owlick, however, didn’t respond. She continued to shake him, but this time he rolled over. His eyes were wide open, and he wasn’t sleeping. The two familiar eyes immediately locked their gaze on her. “Oh no…” Sweetie mumbled as she stumbled back from the bed. The door to the room slid shut, followed by the click of the lock, leaving her alone in the dark, black room. Sweetie pressed herself against the wall, a slight rush of fear streaking through her body. Bulk’s voice rang over the speakers as the engines seemed to die down.

“We’re approaching the planet, should be dropping that crate off when we land.” Bulk rang through the ship.

“Bulk! Don’t land!” Sweetie shouted. Her horn lit up and she tried to teleport herself out of the bedroom.

“Sssso eager to leave?” The naga’s voice filled the dark room, snapping her concentration to pieces. Sweetie went dead silent and she tried to slink back further. “Would be a shame if… Owlick didn’t wake up.”

“You… wouldn’t dare… you’d never leave this ship alive…” Sweetie growled. It was then that she noticed the glimmer of something in the dark. Before she knew what hit her, she could no longer move. Her heart raced and fear pervaded through her body. Sweetie couldn’t help but feel that maybe this time she wasn’t going to be leaving.

“Shhh… just relax.” The voice cooed gently, approaching Sweetie finally. It lied forward, crossing it’s arms and using them as a bed for which it could rest it’s head. “I assured your safety, you simply mistook my words. He wouldn’t wake up, until I left.” She said in a mused laughter.

Sweetie felt a surge of anger rush through her, using all her strength in a futile attempt to punch the creature. “Come now, you’ve just saved an endangered species! You should feel proud.”

Sweetie’s eye twitched she felt nothing but hatred towards this creature. She felt like it should be dead, that it may be a good thing if it did die. The ship shook gently as it descended towards where they were targeted to land. The naga’s hand slid up Sweetie’s arm, humming gently. “Such smooth skin. That dragon of yours is quite the lucky pet.”

Sweetie felt an even more incredible need to attack this thing. She kept uselessly struggling against the magic it had over her but she was refusing to give up. When the ship finally halted, she heard the familiar voice of Zecora. But this time, it seemed to not be uttered through a loudspeaker of any kind. The naga simply grinned a toothy grin at the tone of the voice that previously had made her enraged. Sweetie knew full well why. Sweetie tried to struggle even harder, she wasn’t going to let the naga hurt anyone. “Oh, goodness me, where are my manners? I have forgotten to introduce myself. I am Nashandra.” The snake whispered. Sweetie, even if she could have responded, didn’t want to respond. “I have many thanks to give you… but that will come in time. Do be a dear and make sure your friend here sleeps well. He struggles a lot…”

Sweetie felt a sudden wave of exhaustion slowly start to rise up her body as whatever psychic grip Nashandra had on her started to strengthen. The rage practically frothing from Sweetie’s mouth surged forward, forcing her eyes to stay open as she lunged forward, falling out of… bed?

“AH!” Sweetie squealed, clunking onto the floor in stunned silence. She wasn’t in Twilight’s room anymore, she was in Spike’s bed. “What the hell?” Sweetie questioned aloud. Her instinct told her to panic, but her higher functions calmed her down. She stood up and cautiously walked out into the hall, seeing Spike just coming out of the cockpit. “Spike…” She started, still a little cautious and unsure of what had just happened. Spike couldn’t have been happier, rushing over to hug her.

“You’re awake! That’s great.” Spike sighed. The relief was clear as it visibly washed from his body.

“What… happened?” Sweetie asked slowly.

“Well, we found you and Owlick asleep in Twilight’s room. Twilight went to go ‘talk’ to that thing before we went out to burn the lock. Guess we couldn’t have timed that shittier.”

Sweetie’s eyes widened. “Where is it right now?” She questioned quickly.

“It’s off my ship, not my problem anymore.” Spike chuckled. “I mean, our problem.”

“Did we get it back in the cage?” Sweetie questioned.

Spike grew silent at the question, scratching his head as he searched for a way to put it.

“It escaped didn’t it.” Sweetie said quietly.

“They’re still looking for it.” Spike’s reluctance was obvious.

“It’s going to be long gone…” Sweetie said quietly, turning away.

“Well, Zecora is okay. She’s still safe, and preparing for the worst.”

“That’s good.”

“And hey…” Spike started. “Maybe it did just want to be free. Could just be me, but if I were the last of my kind and I was trapped in a cage… that’d be my first wish.” Spike shrugged.

“Yeah…” Sweetie sighed. “But still… it’s out in a heavily populated planet…”

“And there are a lot of people looking for it.” Spike continued in the same bulge of dread rising through them.

“We’re just feeding it now…” Sweetie mumbled. “It… it’s a terrible creature.”

“It’s out of our hands now, anyways. What’s the worst it could do on an entire planet full of intelligent, resourceful ponies?” Spike questioned.

“Kill and eat all of them.” Sweetie said bluntly. Spike shook his head and grabbed her shoulders.

“Relax, they’ll handle it. Now go get some rest… wait, no, don’t do that you’ve been sleeping all day.” Spike corrected himself. “Now… Bulk wanted to talk to you when you woke up, so don’t keep him waiting. Or do, doesn’t really matter.” He walked past Sweetie and started heading to the kitchen. “I’m starving.”

“I’m… not really hungry right now.” Sweetie said as she started to walk towards the cockpit. Once she reached the cockpit, she saw the smashed screen was fixed, along with Bulk at the helm. The moment she walked in he perked up.

“Hey! How’d ya sleep?” He asked, standing up as the space outside shifted to its white counterpart.

“Terribly.” Sweetie sighed. Bulk just stood there, as if not expecting her response. The two remained in awkward silence for a few moments.

“Sorry…” Bulk spoke up.

“About what?” Sweetie asked.

“We all have secrets right?” Bulk started.

“Yeah.” Sweetie nodded slowly.

“Well uhh… you remember the day I found you?” Bulk added.

“Yeah?” Sweetie questioned.

“You see, I didn’t really… find you.” Bulk continued slowly.

“Uh, huh.” Sweetie nodded slowly, still staring at him.

“I was hired to watch over you.” Bulk finished, seeming to take a step back at the admittance he was giving.

“What.” Sweetie said.

“Now, before you say anything…” Bulk said in a quick and flustered manner. Sweetie just glared at him, her eyes narrowing as she expected a straight answer from him. “I just want you to know, it was for your own good.”

“Uh huh.” Sweetie said. “Just tell me, who hired you?”

“Well… I was hired by…”