Love's Light: The Dragon Wars: A Window to the Past

Chapters

Prologue: Archmage's Special Lesson
Magic at War?
Nexus, City of Dragons
Birthday Surprise

Prologue: Archmage's Special Lesson

Prologue: Archmage’s Private Lesson

I walked down the halls of Canterlot Castle, heading for the Royal Gardens where I was to meet a group of students for a special lesson.

Many things have changed in recent years. The scars of the last war have almost faded, and I do what I can to aid everyone I can. Griffon, minotaur, changeling, dragon, I aid all. Many think me insane. Many think me a saint. I will tell you this though, I am no saint.

I have caused my share of trouble in the past. Even to this day I try to make up for my mistakes.

I continued to walk through the castle as my mind roamed free.

My mind continued to think about my past and the war that had befallen Equestria.

“Archmage, the students from Dodge Junction are here and waiting for you.” a guard told me, that had come up from behind.

“Thank you, I’m heading to them now,” I told the guard, turning down another hall that lead straight to the Royal Gardens.

I came out into the gardens moments later and noticed a group of young ponies surveying the statues. I smiled to myself, I’ve always enjoyed talking to the young ones.

I waved to the chaperone of the group so he could settle everyone down.

“Alright everypony. The Archmage is here. Gather together,” the stallion said.

I watched as all of the ponies gathered together. There were only ten today.

“Hello my little ponies. I am Sunset Shimmer, Archmage of Equestria. If you all would follow me. We can begin within the ‘Hero’s Path’.” I said to everyone, turning around and walking away from the gardens.

I looked back to the group as I continued to walk, seeing everypony following me, I began studying each of the students. Six fillies, four colts. Three unicorns, five earth ponies, two pegasi.

“Alright my little ponies. Can anyone tell me why you’re here today?” I called out.

“To learn about the past.” One of the colts called out.

“That is right. While most of you will think the past is dull, and meaningless. I can assure you, with no past, we have no future. We all learn from past mistakes.”

We stepped through the hallway leading to the ‘Hero’s Path’ and soon found ourselves within.

“Can anypony tell me what moment you are here to learn about today? I’ll give you a hint, it made a major impact on us.”

“We were told you would tell us about the ‘Dragon War’.” One of the unicorn fillies called out.

I smiled at the filly and said, "That's right, my little pony. Today you are here to learn about the events of the 'Dragon War' as we call it or the 'Drekon War' as the dragons have named it." I looked across the group of students and noticed a lot of them were confused. "I can see many of you are confused. Please ask me anything you want."

“Why do the dragons call it ‘Drekon War’?” One of the pegasus colts asked.

I smiled, understanding why he would ask.

“Drekon is Draconian for Honor. The original intent of their war was to bring honor back to them after they failed when Discord first rose to power,” I said loud enough so all the students would hear me. “I’m sure Princess Celestia has already told you about Discord’s rise, the last time you came here for a lesson.”

I continued to lead the students through the ‘Hero’s Path’ leading to the newest grave that was added after the war.

“If Discord was such a bad guy, why do you and the princess’s let him move around so freely?”

I smiled at the young filly, understanding where she came from.

“Because, little ones, we all believe in second chances,” I told them, continuing to walk down the path. “After Discord’s reformation, he has only done things that have aided Equestria and those that live here, though he does still play pranks on everypony, but they are just in good fun. And I myself was given a second chance and thats why I stand before you today.”

“I think I understand now, Archmage,” the same filly replied.

“Now since we are in the ‘Hero’s Path’, I’m sure you all know I didn’t bring you here to talk about Discord. We came here today so you all could meet the ‘Dragon Wars’ hero. Both princess’s, myself, and High Lady Twilight all believe it was thanks to his actions, that Equestria still stands.”

"What did this pony do, Archmage?" One of the colts asked.

"I think the proper term you're looking for is 'Hero'." I said, smiling at the young pony. "This hero is not a pony, but a dragon who, instead of fighting alongside his own race, fought by our side."

I looked back and saw all the young ponies confused. One of them spoke up though.

"Why would he fight with us? I don't understand."

"He fought on our side because his 'mother' is a pony. He truly fought to keep her safe."

"How can a dragon have a pony as a mommy?"

I laughed softly thinking about what was said.

“They can’t. But High Lady Twilight hatched Spike when she took her entrance exam for Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns,” I said after my laughter stopped. “Since she had always looked after him and cared for him, Spike always saw her as his mother, and treated her as such.”

“What did he do in the war that made him a hero?”

“He did something only a very few ever have the courage to. He made the ultimate sacrifice and gave his life protecting High Lady Twilight. When the Dragon King, Bahamut, saw his sacrifice he ordered his dragons to stop attacking.” I told them, looking away and not enjoying lying to them.

‘I wish I could tell them what truly happened after Spike died. All the princess’s are still afraid about what happened. We all agreed to not let the final moments of the war be public knowledge though.’ I thought to myself.

“He had never once seen a dragon throw their lives away for a pony, and to honor Spike, he called a Cease Fire.” I continued speaking to the students. “Him along with both princess’s and High Lady Twilight, came to the agreement we know today as the ‘Dragon Pact’.”

“The treaty that ended the war right?” One of the unicorns called out.

“That’s correct little one. And we have arrived,” I said stopping before one of the graves. A statue atop a pedestal portrayed a dragon in armor holding a lance. “This is Spike, Centurion of the Firelands, as he looked in the final battle.”

“How did the war start?” One of the young ponies asked.

“How would you all like to hear the story of the ‘Dragon War’?” I called out.

All the students smiled and nodded their heads. I smiled back at them. I always enjoyed when I could get young ponies interested in the past.

“The ‘Dragon War’ started eight years ago........”

Author's Note

Hope you all enjoyed the first chapter of "The Dragon Wars"

Thanks to my Counselor and Editor for all their hard work.

Magic at War?

Chapter 1: Magic at War?
Archmage Sunset Shimmer

Ever since Twilight took me as her student, my life has been a lot better. I won the heart of the mare of my dreams. Princess Celestia even named me the new archmage of Equestria when the former archmage, may he rest in peace, passed from this world.

'So why does this magic I'm sensing feel so.... hostile? I've never sensed anything like this before.' I thought to myself.

These last few days I have been unable to get rid of this feeling of unease. What could this shift in magic mean?

“Archmage, Princess Celestia wishes to see you in her study at your leisure. She said to let you know that it is not of great importance.” A royal guard said, breaking me away from my thoughts.

“Thank you lieutenant. You may go, I’ll go to the princess now.” I said, turning around to head for Celestia’s private study, behind me I noticed the guard bow and leave.

It didn’t take me long to reach an oaken door with Celestia’s cutie mark on it. I raised my hoof and knocked on the door.

I heard giggling on the other side of the door and a couple of voices.

“Please stop moving princess. I can’t get your measurements if you keep moving.” I heard a light, elegant voice say, one that reminded me of my wife.

“I’m sorry, Rarity. This is why I don’t get dresses made for me very often. I’m rather ticklish.” A regal voice replied.

‘Why is Rarity still here? I remember her telling me she was going to meet with Celestia today, but that was hours ago. I thought she would be home by now.’ I thought to myself, knocking on the door again.

I saw a golden light engulf the handle and open the door, allowing me to trot inside, before using my own magic to close the door. On the other side of the door was quite a sight. Princess Celestia, without her regalia, dancing around, or what looked like dancing, like a filly, while my wife had a measuring tape suspended in her magic.

“I see what's going on. Why does a beautiful mare have to settle with being married to the archmage when one of the princesses is so much more elegant.” I said loud enough for them to hear me over the giggling.

Both Rarity and Celestia turned to face me, the look of shock and surprise on their faces was priceless.

“This isn’t what it looks like Sunny. I can explain.” Rarity said in a panicked voice.

“I would very much like an explanation.”

“You need not explain Rarity, I will,” Celestia said calmly, turning her attention to me. “I’m sorry for how that looked Sunset, but please trust me when I...” She began to say before suddenly stopping, when I began to giggle.

Both of them glared at me as I broke into laughter.

"I would say that I was sorry, but the looks on your faces were too good," I said, my laughter calming down. "You don't need to worry, love. I know it wasn't what it looked like. Though I am surprised you are still here. I thought you were gonna be leaving several hours ago?"

"I would already be home. But thanks to her," Rarity said, pointing to Celestia and glaring at her. "And her constant moving around while I'm trying to get her measurements. It's taking a lot longer."

“I’m truly sorry for the trouble I’m causing you, but I did warn you I would be a difficult mare to make a dress for.” Celesia said, smiling to Rarity.

“It’s okay princess, I've worked with ponies like you before. Perhaps I can return another day to get some more measurements? I believe the archmage wishes to see you.”

“Of course Rarity. Return when you wish, and I’ll make time for you.”

Rarity bowed to the princess and walked over to me.

“I’ll see you at home tonight Sunny. I love you.” She said before kissing me softly.

I returned her kiss. When we pulled away we smiled at each other.

“I love you too Rarity.” I told her as she walked out of the door.

“You have a very loving and caring wife, Sunset.”

“I know I do. Rarity, at least in my eyes, is the most beautiful pony in this world, no offence Celestia. I’ll always do everything I can to make her happy,” I said, turning to face the other mare in the room. “On another note, you wished to see me?”

“Yes I did, but I didn't think you would come so soon. I told the guard you could take your time and that it wasn't important.”

“He said as such, but there wasn't much for me to do at the time he caught me, so I just came here.”

“Alright then. Well, as you know, Spike is in Drakonia. He sent Twilight a letter the other day and she passed it on to me because of its contents. I thought you should have a look as well.” She said to me, passing a letter over in her magic.

I took hold of the letter and began to read it.

‘Dear Twilight,

Being here in Drakonia has been a lot of fun. I've learned so much about the dragons as a race, and more about myself as well, I believe.

I sorry to say that, after you read this letter I’d like you to pass it on to Celestia and Luna for me.

The other day, Bahamut, the dragon king, called a war council. From what I've heard, a war council hasn't been called in over six hundred years. I don’t know if this means anything for Equestria, but there have been rumors saying King Bahamut is not happy with current affairs.

This may just be wild rumors and nothing worth investigating, but I felt it the right thing to do to let you all know.

Your loving son,

Spike.’

"Celestia, do you have any idea why King Bahamut would call a war council? He showed no hostility during our last meeting with him." I asked the regal alicorn, worry etched into my face for everypony.

"I do not, Sunset. While I hope this war council is not about us, I'm sad to say anything could happen. I wanted you to be aware of him calling it just in case something does happen though.”

“Thank you for letting me know.” I said, passing the letter back to Celestia.

Celestia placed the letter on a shelf and turned to me.

“Sunset, I also wanted to talk to you about one more thing.” Celestia said, concern in her voice.

“What do you need?”

“Are you feeling okay? The last few days I've seen you, kinda spacing out. Is something bothering you?” Celestia asked in a light voice placing a hoof on my shoulder.

“I’m fine. There’s no need to worry about me I just have a lot on my mind.” I said, giving her a forced smile.

“Please don’t lie to me. I can tell something’s bothering you. I know you well enough to know when you're not fine.”

I sighed, knowing if I tried to push it away again, Celestia would just call me out and I wouldn't be able to say no again. I turned away and walked over to the window, looking out.

“You know how I’m connected to magic in a much deeper way now then any pony right? That I can feel the magic flowing in Equestria?”

“Of course, but why do you bring that up?” Celestia asked, a raised eyebrow adorning her face.

I continued to stare out the window as I answered her.

“These last few days, the magic I’m feeling has been different. It almost feels like it’s at war with itself. It’s hard for me to describe it, Celestia. I'm sorry, I just don't know what this feeling is. I've never felt like this before." I said to my princess, hanging my head down.

I felt a wing lay down on my back through my robes as I heard Celestia's soft voice speak.

"I understand the feeling of not knowing something, but I also know that you will find the answer soon, I have faith in you. And I know both Twilight and Rarity have faith in you as well.” She told me, looking down and smiling at me.

“Just give me some time and I’ll figure it out.” I told her, looking up at her smiling.

“Have you finished checking all the wards?” She asked me.

“I finished checking those over an hour ago. Why do you ask?”

Celestia smiled at me and said, “I want you to take the rest of the day off and spend it with your wife. Maybe it will help you clear your head of these feelings, or maybe help you figure them out. And don’t try to talk your way out of it, I’ll just order you to if I have to.”

I sighed, knowing that Celestia meant what she said.

"As you wish princess," I said to her, dropping into a small bow. "I'll take a leave of absence at your request."

"Thank you, Sunset, for not fighting with me about taking the rest of the day off this time. You always work so hard. You deserve time to yourself." She said, smiling at me.

I smiled back at her and walked out of her study.

‘Some time alone with Rarity will be a good change of pace.’ I thought to myself, walking out of the castle, waving goodbye to everyone.

It didn't take me long to reach the house Rarity and I live in together. When Rarity decided to move to Canterlot, it wasn't to follow her dream. She told me she moved here so could be closer to me and so that we could see each other every night. I'm the luckiest pony in Equestria to be married to her.

I walked into Carousel Emporium, which serves as both my wife’s business and our home.

“Welcome to Carousel Emporium, where everything is chic, unique, and magnifique. I’ll be with you in just one moment.” My wife called out, thinking I was a customer.

Rarity told me at one point she tried to think of another line to say to customers, but she couldn't find anything that rhymed with emporium very well.

I walked over to Rarity’s ‘inspiration room’, as she called it, and gently opened the door, peeking inside. Rarity was moving multiple different fabrics around a ponyquin, most likely trying to work on Celestia’s dress. Leaning my head against the door frame, I watched my wife work. Something about watching her work always relaxed me, or maybe it was just the sexy way her rump moves when shes concentrating. Either way I'm one damn lucky mare.

"Enjoying the view darling?" My wife said, giggling as she looked over her shoulder at me.

"How did you know it was me?” I asked, confused. My wife always knew when it was me watching her and I still can not figure out how she does it.

She smiled at me, giggling, before saying, “I keep telling you, that's my little secret.”

I sighed knowing I was doomed never to know, but that wouldn't stop me from trying to figure it out.

I looked at my wife and noticed she had turned back to the ponyquin and continued to work. I walked into the room and stood next to her as she finished up what she was doing.

“What are you doing home early, Sunny? You normally don’t get home for another three hours.” Rarity asked, still moving fabrics around.

“Celestia asked me to take the rest of the day off, so I figured I would come home and spend it with the most beautiful mare in Equestria,” I said, leaning over and kissing her softly on the cheek. “Who also happens to be the sexiest mare in Equestria.” I whispered into her ear huskily.

My wife blushed, turning her head and locking her lips with mine. After several moments, she pulled away, both of us staring into each others eyes.

“I may be sexy, but you are beautiful. I love you, Sunny.”

“I love you too, Rarity. You keep working and I’ll make us dinner tonight.” I said to her, turning around to head for the kitchen.

“Are you sure?”

“I’m sure. You keep working on that dress.” I called out closing the door to her inspiration room as I walked out.

Two hours later Rarity and I were leaning on each other our tails intertwined on our balcony over looking Canterlot, our stomachs full from the candlelit dinner I made for us.

Not much has changed in these recent years. New buildings have been added. Crystal ponies from the Crystal City now live in cities all over Equestria. I've even made alliances with both the centaurs and minotaurs. Neither one was fun to get though.

"I'm going to get ready for bed darling, I'll be back in a couple minutes." My wife said, kissing me softly on the cheek and walking inside.

I stood up and stretched. It was getting dark and I never get to bed early, maybe my wife has the right idea.

I turned to walk inside before I stop and turn back around, feeling something in the back of my head.

'There is that feeling again. Like magic itself is at war.' I thought to myself, looking out at the sunset.

I closed my eyes and tried to delve into my own magic and maybe in turn, into this magic I'm feeling to find out what is was.

This magic felt deeper, perhaps a bit darker than most, but not dangerous.

"Is something wrong darling?" My wife asked behind me, pulling me from the magic.

"I... I don't know. I have this feeling something’s on the horizon, and it's big." I said, looking off into the setting sun.

“Is this about that magic you've been feeling?”

“Yes it is. I tried delving into it as if it was my own. I’m not sure what is gonna happen, but something big is coming,” I said before turning to my wife and smiling. “Let’s not worry about it right now though. I’m confident I’ll figure out what it all means in time. Lets go to bed.”

My wife nodded, leading the way to our bedroom. Lifting the covers with her magic, Rarity climbed into bed, me following right behind her. Not a second later, my wife cuddled close to me, wrapping her hooves around me. Her warmth was so soothing and relaxing, all my worries that had been bothering me just seemed to float away as I wrapped my hooves around her and fell asleep next to the one I loved.

Author's Note

I hope you all enjoy the new chapter of "The Dragon Wars"

I wanted you all to have a heads up "The Dragon Wars" is a side project for when i'm having problems with "Love's Light: Is it Possible to Love Again?" so updates will be jumpy.

Phoenix Skyfire,

Signing Off!

Nexus, City of Dragons

Chapter two: Nexus, City of Dragons
Spike

‘I hope my instincts are wrong and this war council is not about Equestria.’ I thought to myself as I walked down a dirt path within Nexus, capital city of Drakonia.

I came here to Nexus with hopes of finding out more about the dragons as a race. I am a dragon myself, but I was raised by ponies in Equestria, so I knew very little about them before coming here.

“Hey Spike, wait for me will ya?” A high voice called out from above me, causing me to look up.

“Oh, hey Stormfly,” I called out, waving to the sapphire-blue dragon. “What are you doing around here? Normally you’re closer to the palace.”

“I came looking for you, hot shot,” she said, landing next to me and having to look up just a little to look me in the eyes. “Did you hear about King Bahamut making a speech come sunset to all dragons?"

"No, I didn't. What is it going to be about?" I asked.

"I dunno to be honest, but if I had to guess. It's going to be about the war council."

"Would you happen to know what the war council was about?" I asked her, concerned for Equestria's safety.

"In all honesty, no I don't. A war council hasn't been called in a long time. We've had plenty of fights in the past, but it never went to the point of calling war."

'What could have made the dragons go to a war with anyone?' I thought to myself, crossing my arms.

"Listen, Spike. I was wondering if you wanted to hang out till the speech? We could head for the flight arena. I can get us in pretty easy." Stormfly asked, looking away slightly. "You always say how much you enjoy flying since you got your wings."

Hearing Stormfly's voice shook me from my thoughts. Luckily I was able to hear what she was saying.

"Sure thing. I have nothing planned for today." I said to her, smiling.

She smiled back before opening her wings and jumping into the air, signaling for me to follow her. I opened my wings, which were folded on my back, and jumped into the sky following the blue dragoness.

A trip that would have taken us an hour on the ground only took us fifteen minutes by air.

While the trip wasn’t very long, I passed many structures. One of the most treasured structures was a statue of King Jormundgand, the king that founded Drakonia, and King Ouryu, the king that lead the dragons to victory in the ‘Southern Isles War’.

Another structure was the Grand Coliseum, near the edge of town. It was one of the reasons I decided to stay on the outskirts. The Grand Coliseum was a place any dragon could go to try their claw at any handful of events. It even held Drakonia’s largest library, which I'm sure my mom would flip out about if she saw it. It almost rivaled that of Canterlot’s Royal Archive.

"I'll meet you by the entrance, okay?" Stormfly called out ahead of me, pulling my sight back forward.

"No problem. See you there." I said, adjusting my flight path for the entrance.

As I landed in front of the flight arena, I noticed no one else was around.

'I thought there would be someone here. A guard or something.' I thought to myself, as I waited for Stormfly.

I saw Stormfly walk out of the main entrance to the flight arena. I tilted my head wondering how she got in there so easy.

"Sorry for the wait. The arena is all ours though." Stormfly said, smiling to me.

"How did you get in there so easy? And why is there no one at the door?" I asked, confused.

"To tell you the truth. Today I had already asked for use of the arena. I was gonna practice some stunt flying, so I could maybe make it into the 'Soaring Flames'."

"What are the 'Soaring Flames'? I've never heard of them."

"Thats not a big surprise to be honest. They don't travel around a lot, but you can think of them like your 'Wonderbolts'. They are the fastest and most agile of all dragons," She said proudly. "From the first time I saw them fly, I wanted to join, but I never thought I would be good enough. I try to practice as much as I can though so maybe one day I can join them."

"Is that why I see you always flying?" I asked her, while I thought about Rainbow.

'I think Rainbow and Stormfly would be good friends. They both enjoy flying a lot.' I thought to myself.

"One of the reasons, yes. We can talk about my other reasons some other time thought. Why don't we see how well you can use those wings of yours." She said, taking off in the direction of an obstacle course.

I opened my wings and followed after her.

Stormfly and me spent the next few hours flying the obstacle course, but thanks to all of her training so far I was unable to keep up with her. I sat there exhausted from trying to keep up with the blue dragoness.

"Little to much for you, Hot Shot?" She asked, standing next to me.

"Shut up, Storm. I'm not as experienced in flying as you are." I told her, trying to catch my breath.

Stormfly just stood beside me laughing, as I was able to fully stand up.

"Come on, Spike. We don't want to be late for the speech." She said to me, opening her wings and taking off towards the palace in the distance.

'Damn mare. Sometimes I think she does this just to torture me.' I thought to myself, opening my own wings and following after the sapphire dragon.

Luckily for me the flight arena was built close to the palace, so it didn't take me long to get there. It did sadden me slightly knowing Stormfly would be in a different location than me for the speech.

When I arrived at the palace, I couldn't believe my eyes. There were so many dragons standing outside, some even perched on pillars and buildings to hear the speech. I looked around trying to find someplace to stand so I could hear the speech myself but there wasn't much room left, till I heard a voice call out my name.

"Hey, Spike! Down here. I saved a spot for you." A brown dragon called out to me.

I smiled and swooped down and landed beside him.

"Hey Meatlug. Thanks a lot. I was trying to find a decent place to stand." I said, grasping his claw with my own.

"Where in this flame loving world were you? I was trying to find you earlyer."

"Over at the flight arena with Stormfly. Why were you looking for me?"

"To tell you about the speech. I didn't think you would have heard about it, always staying so far out," he answered me smiling, before his smile dropped. "Wait. You were in the flight arena with Stormfly? How in the world? She never invites anyone along with her when she goes there. Always says something about 'someone else will just slow me down' or something along those lines."

"Really? She has been inviting me along for the last few months, since I got here." I told Meatlug, wondering why Stormfly has only invited me along with her.

"Damn your..." Meatlug started to say before a horn sounded in the distance. "We can finish this after the speech you damn lucky dragon. That horn meant King Bahamut is about to come out."

I nodded to him before looking up at a single balcony on the palace walls. That is when I saw him, a giant of a dragon walking onto the balcony. His scales an azure blue. Claws and talons white like diamonds. His wings folded up against his back, but ready to spring open at a moments notice.

"My fellow dragons, I stand before you now, just returned three days past, from our battle in the northern isles with the hydras. We stand victorious this day, in the face of a mighty foe." King Bahamut called out to everyone.

I looked around myself, noticing nearly everyone cheering. I had to admit, while at times King Bahamut seemed ruthless, there were times such as now when he shined.

"But, that is not that main reason I called us here today. Nineteen hundred years ago, my grandfather founded this land we live on today after we were thrown out of our old home. Since that time we have lived in relative peace with nearly all others. I've had a dream for a long time since my father was king. This dream is for us to return to our former home and remove the ‘blight’ that holds it." He continued to say, while everyone was cheering.

'I have a bad feeling this is about to turn south very fast.' I thought to myself, continuing to look up at King Bahamut.

"Now my subjects. The time is now. Thousands of years ago Discord came and overpowered us all. Now we dragons shall go, to reclaim our former glory. To show Equestria, who is the strongest. To show all, that we are the mightiest of them all!"

I stared up at the king with horror. My instincts were right. War is coming to Equestria.

'I have to return and warn mom,' I thought to myself, looking around, still hearing the king speak but not paying attention. 'I don’t want anyone to see me leave though.'

I ducked down and maneuvered around everyone till everyone was behind me still cheering the king as he spoke. I didn't want to leave without saying something to Stormfly, but I had no choice.

I opened my wings when I was far enough away and took off, flying as fast as my wings would carry me, heading for Equestria.

‘I just hope Dash’s advice on speed flying helps me here,’ I thought to myself, ascending higher into the sky. ‘The winds up high are a great deal faster. If I can find the right current, it should only take me half the time it took getting here. I just hope I don't grab the wrong one.’

As I felt the winds picking up around me I remembered something Rainbow told me.

“Just remember Spike. Flying higher in the sky is a great deal faster than lower because of the wind currents, but also a lot more dangerous. If you go into a wrong air current, it can lock your wings and put you in a nose dive, or worse, lock your wings against your sides.” Rainbow said to me, after my wings had fully grown.

‘You taught me well, Dash. Now to prove to myself, that your faith in me was not a mistake.’ I thought to myself, angling myself into an air current.

The instant I entered the current I knew I had chosen right. I could feel my wings pulling me on their own, as wind filled them from behind. I had never flown at this speed before, never having reason to use air currents. I promised Dash I would never use them unless I felt the need was great enough.

“I’ll be there as quick as I can mom.” I said outloud to myself, as I let the winds pull me towards Equestria.

Author's Note

Hope you enjoyed Spikes Debut into The Dragon Wars. if you have any comments or concerns let me know.

big thanks to elmago02 for helping me out.
big thanks to Tschloken for Editing

This is Phoenix Skyfire

Signing Off.

Birthday Surprise

Author's Note

Before We start this chapter off. I'd just like to say I'm sorry for the long wait on this story, and hope you can forgive me.
I'm working on the next chapter as well, which I hope you all will enjoy as much as all the other chapters.

This is Phoenix Skyfire,

Let's start up this new chapter.

Birthday Surprise

Chapter 3: Birthday Surprise
Archmage Sunset Shimmer

As I woke up, I stretched the tiredness from my body. I looked over to the side and noticed I was alone. Normally I’m up before Rarity and wake her when I head for the castle.

I yawned as I pulled myself from the bed.

After straightening my mane and tail, I headed downstairs to the kitchen. Reaching the bottom of the stairs, I started to smell something wonderful.

As I looked into the kitchen, I noticed that Rarity was cooking.

I smiled and snuck towards her. When l got close to her, l gave her a quick kiss on the cheek.

“Good morning love. I didn’t expect you to be up so early.” I said to my wife, looking into her eyes.

She smiled at me before kissing me softly.

“Good morning, Sunny. I thought I would make you breakfast this morning, so I woke up a little earlier.”

“Don’t you enjoy sleeping a little longer though before you have to start working?” I asked my wife.

Rarity almost never wakes up early unless she’s planning to go to ponyville to see our friends.

“Let me guess. You forgot what day it was, didn’t you Sunset Shimmer?” Rarity said, glaring at me.

‘Oh shit. She’s glaring at me. Only time she glares at me is if I bucked up really bad, or if I forgot something. Think Sunset, THINK! What day could it be?’ I thought to myself, while moving slightly backwards, not wanting to incur the wrath of my wife. She’s the only one in this world that I’m scared shitless of.

“How could I forget a day as important as this? This day is one of the biggest days of our lives together.” I said with an awkward smile, hoping she’d buy it, and maybe forget about it.

“And tell me, dear Archmage. What day is today?”

‘Shit, didn’t work. Okay, what now Sunset?’ I thought to myself.

I waved my head back and forth hoping to see something that could give me a hint. That’s when my eyes fell on the calendar, causing me to sigh in relief.

“Oh, it’s only my birthday. Wait, why are you glaring at me? It’s not like I forgot our anniversary or your birthday.”

“Sunset! I’ve told you before you need to at least try and remember your birthday. I understand that your family wasn’t able to celebrate your birthday when you were young, because of how poor you were, so it would be easy to forget. But now we can celebrate it.” Rarity said to me, her eyes softening.

“Rarity. I’ve told you several times, there is no need for that. My birthday is nothing special, it never has been.”

“And as I’ve told you, that is not true. Your birthday is special, because you are special to me. Isn’t that the only reason we need to celebrate it?”

I sighed in defeat. Me and Rarity have this conversation every year. Maybe I should finally try and remember my own birthday. If not for myself, then for her.

“Why don’t we sit down and eat breakfast together? It’s getting close to you needing to leave isn’t it?”

I nodded my head and sat down at the table, while Rarity placed our food on our plates.

Once our breakfast was done, I kissed my wife goodbye and headed for the castle.

My trip to the castle didn’t take long, though I remember when I first became the archmage. Travel to the castle took me so much longer because everypony would stop me and ask me questions, or congratulate me.

Now though, most ponies just wave to me or wish me a happy day as I walk past. A lot of ponies ask me why I don’t just teleport to the castle like most of the archmages.

“I enjoy seeing ponies smile, as I walk to the castle. It give me reason to always make sure I’m ready for anything that’s thrown at me.” Was my response, when I was asked.

As always, two guards stand outside the castle gates. Completely unmoving and unflinching. When I was young, I would play jokes on the guards to try and make them move. I never did succeed though.

Once I passed through the main gates of the castle, I started to head for the dinning hall. Just incase events change, I always talk with Celestia and Luna every morning before I start anything.

I pushed open the doors to the dining hall, and noticed Celestia sitting alone.

‘Oh great, what is Luna planning this time?’ I thought to myself, walking inside and closing the doors. ‘Sometimes these birthday pranks of hers go overboard.’

I went over and took a seat near Celestia.

“Good morning, Celestia. How did you sleep?” I asked the age old alicorn beside me.

Celestia looked over at me with a smile on her face.

“I slept well, Sunset. Thank you for asking. Though I must ask how our birthday mare slept.” She said to me, a small grin forming on her face.

My eyes widened seeing that grin on Tia’s face. That was her prankster grin.

‘Oh buck me. They teamed up this year.’ I thought to myself, looking around for a quick exit. When Luna and Celestia team up for a prank they are worse than Discord.

I let my face twist into a smirk, knowing how to stop at least Celestia.

“You know Celestia. I slept pretty well. Though to be honest, I think our budget is calling for a few cutbacks. So I have cut the shipment of cake mix in half for the next year.” I say, using my magic to pour me a glass of juice.

I watch as Celestia’s grin falls from her face and her eyes widen.

“You wouldn’t do that, would you? You know that I need my daily amount of cake.” Celestia’s said, a small panic in her voice.

“Only if you’re going to help Luna prank me.” I say to her, sticking my tongue out at her.

I watched as Celestia sighed.

“Okay, Sunset. You win. I won’t help my sister prank you.” She said, hanging her head in defeat.

I laughed a little watching Celestia hang her head.

“Sorry, Celestia, but every time you and Luna team up for a prank you guys are worse than Discord.” I tell her with a small smile on my face.

“Then you would have really hated this year’s prank. Discord is part of it,” she said with a sigh. “I guess I don’t get to be part of this one though.”

Right as Celestia said Discord’s name, my eyes shot open wider than they have ever been.

‘Discord is part of the prank? Oh feather dung. I’m so screwed even with Celestia backing down.’ I thought to myself, trying to think of some way out of the castle.

My mind went on autopilot, summoning a barrier over myself and Celestia, as a shower of glass pelted us, as something large crashed through the window on the far side of the dining hall slamming into the floor cracking several pieces of the tile flooring.

I jumped up and teleported next to what ever crashed into the floor, keeping the barrier I summoned over Celestia. My eyes widened, as I let the barrier around Celestia fade. In front of me was a large dragon with a hide of purple scales, and green spines.

“Celestia! It’s Spike.” I said, calling my magic, running a thin membrane over the fallen dragons body, to check for injuries.

I heard Celestia’s hoof steps as she quickly got next to me to look at Spike. “Is he alright Sunset?” She asked worried.

I let out a sigh as my horn’s glow faded. “He’s fine. Why he crashed I have no idea.” I said, looking over the purple dragon’s body.

I raised an eyebrow, as Spike began to stir, slowly lifting his bulk up to sit up.

“Ow... What happened?” Spike said, lifting a claw to rub his head.

I watched as Celestia got up next to him. “You crashed through one of the dining hall windows, Spike. You even cracked some of this marble tile.” She said, looking around at the floor where the dragon sat. “What happened to you? And how did you crash?”

Spike blinked his eyes, looking down at the floor, before turning his gaze to the princess.

“I was heading to Ponyville to see mom. I’ve been flying for over thirty-six hours straight now.” He had said wearily.

I blinked staring at the dragon. “Thirty-six hours, but how? I thought Drakonia was at least sixty hours by flight?”

Spike looked up at me with this look in his eyes, that I have seen for years. For some reason he and I just never really took. He didn’t much care for me, and for what reason I could not fathom.

“I rode one of the air currents over the sea. As I was nearing Canterlot I went to get out, I must have hit bad wind. All I know is my wing locked up, and I couldn’t move it. Once I fell into a dive I couldn’t pull up out of it.” He spoke, continuing to look at me with that look.

Celestia stomped her hoof into the tile cracking even more of the marble. “Spike! Me and Twilight have both told you never to fly into air currents. You could very easily be killed entering or exiting them.” She said glaring at the dragon on the ground. “I thought Rainbow taught you better.”

Spike turned and looked at Celestia. “She did teach me better. She told me never to use them unless I thought the need was great enough, and I had to get back here as quickly as I could.”

“And tell me, what need is so great that you would risk your life to get back?” Celestia said, her expression still hard, as she stared at the dragon.

I noticed Spike shiver, as he looked down at the cracked tiles under him.

“War.” The purple dragon said, just loud enough to be heard.

Celestia’s eyes widened hearing the word and took a step back. “War? You couldn’t possibly mean that...” she started to ask, before trailing off.

Spike nodded as he began to speak. “King Bahamut has called for war against Equestria. All of Drakonia knows, he made a huge announcement about it. I don’t know how long we have.”

I stood there looking at Spike in horror. War with the dragons, some of the largest creatures in all of Equestria now seek to destroy us.

I screamed, rearing up onto my hind legs as my fore hooves shot up to hold my head. A shooting pain echoing across my entire mind, my horn glowing bright enough to blind even the princess standing near me. The next thing I remember, is the floor coming to meet me as I fell, Celestia’s voice calling my name, sounding as if it was halfway across the world, as the world around me faded into darkness.

I stood up onto my hooves shaking my head to try and remove the dizzying sensation that I felt. As I was able to get control of my thoughts and the dizziness went away, I looked around, my eyes widening. The castle was gone, around me was a wasteland. A wasteland littered with bodies.

I couldn’t believe my eyes, and I kept looking around. I saw a blackened oak door with the faded crescent moon and small white dots all across the door.

I didn’t understand, If Luna’s bedroom door was here, where was she and Celestia? Where was Canterlot Castle? I kept thinking to myself, looking around more, until I saw him. A beast of a dragon. His size was easily twice as large as Spike, who now stood taller than even Celestia.

His black onyx armor shined in the glowing sunlight, droplets of blood covered him. He was howling in laughter, calling out how weak the princesses were.

That’s when I noticed the oddest sight. In his uplifted claw, was me. I hung lifeless from his claw, my normal robes shredded, my horn cracked down the middle. On my chest was three large gashes that blood spilled from and down the dragon kings arm.

My whole body shook at the scene before me, before slowly looking down at the floor at the kings talons. There laying in a pool of blood, was Twilight and her friends, the gems of the elements of harmony shattered.

“No....” I said softly, slowly backing away from the sight before me. “No...” I said louder, shaking my head. I turned and ran as fast as my hooves would carry me, trying to get away from what I saw.

“Sunset!” I heard a voice call out, in the distance. “Sunset, wake up.” I heard the voice call again but more urgently.

I saw a flash of white in front of me before everything went dark again.

I let out a groan, my eyes slowly opening showing Celestia over me, a worried look plastered on her face. I slowly sat up and shook my head looking around. I was back in the dining hall with the princess, the shattered glass still littered the floor from Spikes crash.

“What... Ow...” I tried to say, a pain radiating from the back of my head.”What happened? Everything went black.” I said rubbing my head for some comfort.

A white hoof touched my shoulder as I looked up to the see Celestia. “I’m not sure, but I’m happy you’re alright, Sunset.” She said to me sweetly with a smile.

I continued to rub my head with a hoof, trying to piece together the vision I saw. After waking up it had become fuzzy and I couldn’t remember it very well.

“I saw something, but I can’t remember what. It’s all fuzzy now.” I said out loud, grinding my hoof into my head to try and remember.

I felt the hoof on my shoulder rub into my fur, causing me to look back up. “It’s alright Sunset. Whatever you saw, I’m sure it will come back to you.”

I nodded to her before moving to stand up. As I got all four hooves to support me, I felt a dizzy spell hit me, causing me to tumble around. I caught myself before I ended up falling onto the floor again, and shook my head to try and clear the dizziness.

“Has that ever happened before?” Spike asked, having apparently stood up while I was out.

I shook my head, trying to look up at the dragon. “No. And I don’t understand why it did.” I said, trying to get my thoughts focused.

“I might know.” Luna said, coming into the dining hall, Discord following close behind her, scratching at the stub of his beard.

I looked towards the door, my eyes widening seeing the night princess and Discord walk into the dining hall.

“Oh fudge. Please Luna, Discord. No prank. My head is hurting as it is, and I would much rather not have to deal with a prank from you two.” I said, rubbing my temples with my front hooves trying to get rid of the splitting headache.

“No worries, my friend. We know about your collapse.” Luna says stopping in front of me, and looking me in the eyes.

I watched Discord from the corner of my eye as he continued scratching at his beard, before lifting his talon and snapping, causing him to disappear.

Luna rolled her eyes, seeing Discord disappear. She reached out, lifting my chin with a hoof, and looking me in the eyes. She withdrew her hoof after a moment and turned around, humming lightly most likely thinking.

“Did you see anything when you collapsed?” Luna’s asked me, still facing away.

“Yes... but I can’t remember what it was. I just remember running right before I heard Celestia’s voice.” I said, shaking my head.

Luna turned to look at me before looking up at her sister. “I think it’s time sister.”

I turned my head to Celestia, watching as her eyes widened hearing Luna’s words.

“Wh... what do you mean Luna? You can’t mean... Luna... you know it’s too soon.” Celestia said, having apparently understood what her younger sister was saying.

Luna shook her head. “No, I think we waited to long. We both know how quickly she’s advanced. She was the youngest after all.” She said to her sister.

“Ummm... excuse me. Luna, Celestia, what are you two talking about.” I asked sitting there confused.

I watched as Celestia turned her head, as if examining me. She let out a sigh, before turning back to Luna.

“I’ll defer to your judgement on this little sister, but before you go through with it. Please ensure her safety.” Celestia said with a hint of sadness in her voice. She looks over at Spike who had been quiet. “Come with me Spike, I want you to tell me exactly what was said if you would.” I watched her say before turning away and walking towards the door.

Spike followed behind Celestia, his gaze turning to me before he left the room.

“Now Sunset.” Luna said, causing me to turn my attention to her. “Come. We must speak in private in my room.” She said, almost hastingly as she turned to walk out a different door that lead towards the Lunar Wing of the castle.

I quickly got up and followed Luna, doing my best to match her long strides.