Chapters A Lonely Heart and Pampered Hooves
I found myself skipping down the path from the Castle towards Ponyville town centre. Okay, I’m not actually skipping per say, but there certainly is a spring in my step. Today was going to be a good day, I can just feel it.
The fact I’ve just received my monthly allowance was part of the reason - ever since we moved into the new castle, Twilight had to hire extra staff to help out. And because I was doing just as much work as any of them, Twilight declared I needed to be paid about the same as the other ponies, less board and lodging of course. I wasn't going to moan about that as it left me enough bits left over to buy things I want, without too many that I would get greedy and hoard.
As I entered the outskirts of town, it quickly became evident to what day it was, as if I didn't know already. Today was Hearts and Hooves day, and the town was all decked out in pink decorations everywhere you looked. The Pegasi had made sure it was a lovely day and there were couples already trotting around town together.
I don’t care about such things of course. Today was also new comic book day and no doubt there would be plenty of colts and fillies in the store to argue over the latest developments in the Marevel universe. Romance can wait until we find out exactly how the power ponies got out of the cliffhanger at the end of last month's comic - hopefully humdrum would be the hero!
Out of the corner of my eye I spotted Cheerilee and Big Mac heading off somewhere together, no doubt only as ‘good-friends’. I wish they would just admit the feelings for each other as they made a cute couple, and were so similar in many ways - both hard working earth ponies that cared more about others than themselves. Still, one day perhaps.
My route always took me close to a familiar shop, one that it was best to avoid today. However, to actually change my route to avoid it would be foalish and you have to be grown up about these things. Unfortunately I found myself pausing not too far from it, wishing I had changed my route. I hated my enhanced dragon hearing right now as my ears filled with a sound that was familiar, but not welcome - the sound of somepony crying.
In fact, the sound of a white unicorn with purple mane crying.
Whilst the draw of the comic book store was strong, Rarity was my friend so it was my duty to go and see what was up. I walked up to the front of the store and noted the sign said it was closed. I knocked on the door and waited for a response, but none was forthcoming. I could tell the crying was coming from upstairs, and so she probably couldn't hear me.
Rarity had always told me that I was welcome anytime, as long as I didn’t go upstairs to her home part of the building without permission. I tried opening the door and found it unlocked. That was one of the things I loved about Ponyville, it was a quiet trusting place with no crime, unlike in Canterlot. I entered the store and looked around. The place was a mess.
Okay, for anypony else except Twilight and Rarity it would be considered spotless, and Rainbow Dash had probably never had her place this clean. But for Rarity’s showroom this was most unusual.
A dress was discarded on the floor in a crumpled mess
A dress that that she had spent days creating for herself.
The dress she was going to wear on her date.
The date she was supposed to be having today.
Right Now.
It dawned on me what had happened - Rarity was not going on the date she had been looking forward to for weeks. Noteworthy, an earth pony farmer who did a bit of singing on the side, had a few weeks ago finally asked Rarity out. Rarity had been delighted to have her first proper date so obviously something had gone tremendously wrong this morning. I walked up to the edge of the steps, knowing that unless it was an emergency I had no right to go any further. “Rarity?”
The sobbing paused for just a second “Spike?” a meager voice called out “Is that you?”
“Yeah” I replied nervously “I heard you crying as I walked past, are you okay?”
The sobbing started up again and I found myself unsure what to do. I couldn’t just leave her like this, she was my friend. Perhaps I should go get Twilight or Fluttershy to come over and console her. But then she might not want everypony knowing.
“Do you want me to get somepony?” I called out.
“No.” a meek reply came back between the sobs.
“Do you want me to leave you alone?”
After a brief pause a even more pathetic reply of “No”
“Can I come upstairs, it saves me from shouting!”
“O...okay” I clearly heard from between the sobs. It seemed a big deal, taking the first step, but I soon found myself upstairs and listening to where the cries were coming from. It was Rarity’s bedroom, a place that I had only occasionally been given permission to enter, and even then only to fetch something for her.
I walked up to the partially shut door and knocked “Can I come in?”
I heard a whimper of a yes and slowly pushed open the door. In the middle of the bed, lying on her side, was the most beautiful unicorn in all of Equestria. And she was crying like a newborn foal. I slowly walked up to her, leaned on the edge of the bed and placed my head on the same level as her “What's wrong?”
“He cancelled on me...this morning...by letter!” Rarity wailed at me.
I suspected this was coming, and knew this was dangerous territory for us. After the incident with Trenderhoof, where she completely disregarded my feelings when talking, we had to be careful when discussing anything to do with romance. Of course, as good friends, it came up in conversation, and I knew all about her date. I was glad for her, as she deserved to be happy even if it was with somepony else.
I didn't know what to say in response that wouldn’t make things worse, or make me sound like a jealous so and so. Instead, I gently placed a comforting claw onto her side and gave a gentle circling motion.
Rarity opened her eyes briefly and the hurt within was clearly on display. Except for the disasterous ‘date’ with Prince Blueblood, Rarity had never actually been on a proper date, something a little unusual for a mare her age. So when a pony she found rather attractive had been the first to ask, it meant the world to her. And now that world was shattered.
I looked over to the pony of my not-so-secret crush and was disgusted by what I saw. Not disgusted by her of course, but how this stallion had reduced a precious gem into a crying mess. Her makeup, which she always took pride in, had run and her mane was everywhere. She was about as un-rarity as she could be right now.
“I’ll be right back” I said, and left her side. I went into her ensuite bathroom and filled a bowl with clean water and a fresh flannel. I put a towel over my shoulder and returned to the bed. Rarity saw me approach and rolled slightly to lie on her stomach. She went to levitate the flannel to wash her face, but I didn’t let go.
Seeing the confusion on her face, I simply smiled “Just relax, I’ve got this”
With her still sniffling slightly, I gently wiped the makeup off her face - it did mean cupping her muzzle with a claw, but we both knew there was nothing meant by this. I quickly wiped off the smeared mascara and eyeliner, and then used the towel to pat the moisture off her face. As I removed the towel I saw a slight change in the eyes looking back at me. There was still sadness within, but the display of kindness had given her the tiniest amount of sparkle back.
Not wanting to get lost in those eyes, I had to make an excuse “Let me get you a drink” I stammered, and quickly rushed downstairs I put the kettle on and made Rarity’s favorite tea in no time. Returning upstairs, I found her still lying on the bed, this time looking at the letter she received, although she had removed the bowl from the bedroom.
I placed the cup of tea near her and it quickly was enveloped in Rarity’s aura, the mare taking a large sip of drink “Thank you Spike.”
I saw that her mane was also in a real mess, and spotted a manebrush on her nightstand. I went over and picked it up, and returned to the bed. Much like with the cleaning, it felt right to treat her by helping with the mane, much like Rarity often did with others. But there was a problem with that. The only way I could get into a position to brush her mane with her lying down was to sit on her back. Of course, I often travelled, and still do, on Twilight’s back, and have been carried the same way by pretty much all of my friends at some point. But never Rarity.
And I was in her bedroom, and she was lying on a bed. It occurred to me that it might be a bit inappropriate for me to do so. But I’m sure she would know that I didn’t mean anything by it. Besides, I’m just a baby dragon.
I gently climbed up onto Rarity’s back and could sense her body tense slightly in confusion. However, she didn't say anything and once I started brushing her mane she soon melted back to relaxation. She lay her head back down on the bed and using my fingers as well as the brush, I was able to quickly start to work out the knots.
For a little while the room was filled with nothing but the sounds of a brush working through hair, and the ocassional moan of contentment from the pony receiving a careful and gentle brushing. However, all too quickly, the task was complete. It felt nice to be this close to her, but I knew that staying longer than I had to would be wrong thing for a friend to do.
So I gently lifted myself off her back and got down from the bed. She looked up at me and it was weird to see her with her hair naturally down. I presented the brush towards her “Er, I think it’s best you do your own tail.”
Hiding a little blush on her face, which still showed the signs of the earlier crying, she smiled at me as she ran the brush through her tail. She simply brushed out any styling much like I did with the mane “Thank you Spike, you are a true friend you know that?”
“It’s nothing you wouldn't do for somepony.”
Having finished, she stood up and moved over to a couch. Lying down on it, she patted the space next to her so I sat down in it “Why were you walking past?” she asked.
I could tell by the tone she was slightly suspicious that I had been simply walking past her house on Hearts and Hooves day, a fair assumption based on previous years “I was on the way to the comic book store...it’s new comic day.”
“Oh yes, I remember you explaining the latest arc to us last week. Well, I’m sorry to hold you up!”
“Don’t be silly, friends always come first, you know that more than anypony.”
“True, but I dont want to delay you any longer.”
I looked over to her and the fake smile she had “Are you sure you’re okay?”
“Yes, of course, he was just a silly stallion. I’ll be fine”
“Rarity, I know when you're lying to me”
A slight look of guilt flashed across her face and there was a pause “Sorry, but I will be okay. I might not have anything planned, but I’ll find something to do. Don;t worry about me.”
“You still look kinda rough, why do you go to the spa and treat yourself?”
I think Rarity was surprised to hear me give a slight criticism of her looks, but looking in the mirror she could see what I meant “Ah yes, the spa would be nice about now. But I have nopony to go with and it’s a little boring by oneself, especially right now.”
A thought crossed my mind. It might have been a dangerous thought, but I couldn’t go off and read comics knowing Rarity may mope around all day “Well...why don’t I come with you?”
A Lonely Heart and Pampered Hooves
So, instead of being at the comic book store, I found myself walking through Ponyville towards the Day Spa with Rarity at my side. After a bit of a friendly argument backwards and forwards about missing my comic time and that she would be okay by herself, she finally agreed that it would be nice to go together. Of course she did. She always wanted to go to the spa, but her generous nature often meant she had trouble accepting generosity from others.
Rarity was, unusually, outside with her tail and mane down simply hanging plainly. I could tell she had been tempted to get herself styled before leaving, but even she saw it was a bit irrelevant to spend an hour getting ready when it’ll all be undone in the spa anyway. As we approached the spa, I felt a little nervous. Of course I had been to it before, but only with a large group of my friends...and always Twilight. Going in there with only one other pony sort of felt weird. But then, I wasn't doing this for myself...I was doing it for her.
Wait a minute. I was going to be spending Hearts and Hooves day (well, the morning at least) with Rarity. For two years that would have been a dream came true, but now, what did it mean?
I didn't have too much time to think about that as no sooner had we got to the spa, we were set upon by the two spa owners. Lotus Blossom and Aloe are lovely ponies, don’t get me wrong, but they can be a little...excitable...at times. It turned out that after a busy week getting ponies ready, the spa was particularly quiet today.
Before we even had time to think, we were being escorted into the spa for the full works. First stop was the changing rooms, where a small robe was brought to me. Putting it on I was told to go to the steam room where I found Rarity already inside, with her personalised monogrammed bathrobe on.
We sat there together, building up a sweat. I broke the silence that formed by asking Rarity about the week she had, allowing her to wax lyrical about all the dresses and so on she had made for today. Talking about the good she had done for other couples seemed to break the bit of the funk she had over her own cancelled plans.
After the steam, which I really enjoyed due to the heat involved, we moved into one of the treatment rooms. Rarity’s face was covered in a mud mask and cucumbers placed on her eyes. I declined the treatment as even the spa ponies admitted it wouldn't do anything for my scales or crystal-lensed eyes. After twenty minutes, this was washed off and Lotus started filing Rarity’s horn. Aloe approached me with a file in her mouth
“Would you like the claws sharpened or smoothed?”
“The idea of sharpened claws sounds awesome…” I replied “...but it’ll probably damage the books in the library. So smooth please.”
“But of course!” Aloe gushed back a little over-enthusiastically and started filling my claws. It was weird to have somepony else do it, given that I usually just bite them myself when they get too long.
I think Aloe must be a mind reader as she blurted out “These are very rough, like somepony has been biting them!”
I’m not sure if my blush was visible, but I half scowled at the spa pony. And then I heard Rarity ask in a soft tone “Spike, is that true?”
My blush continued to grow much to my embarrassment “Yeah. I don’t do enough…dragony...things usually to wear them down so I sort of have to get them down to size sometimes.”
“But Spike, biting them?” Rarity's tone was almost scolding and I hated Aloe for bringing it up “Next time you need a trim come over to the boutique and I’ll show you the proper way of doing it!”
Okay, maybe Aloe was onto something. “It’s not a problem. I can ask Twilight to help…”
“Nonscene Spike.” Rarity interrupted “I am more than capable of showing you the best way of keeping your talons in shape.”
When the filing was done we moved onto a massage (which was nice, I never knew they were that good!) before going onto a wrap and mudsoak. That didn't really appeal to me so I just sat around waiting whilst Rarity enjoyed the weird treatment. Having exhausted the conversation about her business, Rarity asked me about my comic hobby. I knew that she wasn't that interested in it, but she protested that having been Radiance herself, she was a little curious what usually happened in the comics.
The final step was a soak in the large hot tub. The word “Hot” always appealed to me, and I just stripped off my robe and jumped straight in. The warmth of the water was heavenly, not too hot for a pony and so a little cooler than I really would like, but still nice. As I sat against the edge of the tub, I looked over to Rarity who seemed to be frozen at the edge.
“Come on in Rarity, the water's lovely”
Rarity still seemed to be stuck, almost mentally paused for some reason which really piqued my interest. “Something wrong?”
My question seemed to snap Rarity out of her stupor, but she still didn't move “Erm, it’s just, it feels weird to disrobe in front of you!” she replied a little bashfully.
That really took me by surprise. I knew that ponies liked wearing clothing sometimes, but Rarity was usually nude around Ponyville, a fact that I pointed out to her.
Rarity blushed as she took off her robe and quickly got into the tub, but I could sense she was still uncomfortable “Well…” she coughed to give herself a moment to think “...it’s different to actually undress in front of somepony...or dragon.”
This didn't really help me understand what's going on and a part of me didn't want to press it as it was obviously something that made her a little self-conscious. Though I couldn't for the life of me work out why. Luckily the soothing warmth of the water seemed to put her at ease again, at least for a while.
When the time was up for us, I decided to do the most gentle drake thing I could. I motioned to Rarity to stay in the tub whilst I quickly hopped out of the tub and said I would meet her out front. I quickly left allowing Rarity to be able to get out and towel off in private. I may not understand Rarity's quirks, but I respect them.
I didn't have to wait too long in the entrance room with Rarity soon coming out from the female changing room. Her mane was simply styled up in a sort of bun, and I realised she did it quickly not to leave me waiting. Obviously she had learnt some lessons from her time with Sweetie Belle in putting other ponies before her own appearance, and it was nice to see her growing.
Aloe and Lotus stood at the reception desk and asked us if everything was satisfactory. Rarity went on for a full minute of compliments, leaving big smiles on the spa ponies faces. They then discretely pushed the bill forwards but before Rarity could speak and add it to her tab, I approached the counter.“Please, this is on me”.
I looked at the bill - I couldn't believe how much the spa cost, but if it made Rarity happy then it was money well spent. I fished in my bit purse, and removed most of the contents. There would be enough left for a few comics, but not the figurine of Saddle Ranger I had saved up to buy. As I was doing this Rarity had moved up next to me.
“Now Spike, we should at least split the bill…”
“It was my idea to come here, so it’s the least I can do.”
I could tell Rarity wanted to object, and I'm pretty sure Aloe and Lotus bit their tongue to suggest that it should be for the stallion to pay on Hearts and Hooves day. I’m glad they did as if it had been brought up I would have had to concede the point and let Rarity pay. Luckily for me, although unluckily for my bit balance, the argument stopped.
Stepping back outside, it was already early afternoon and neither of us had eaten. I suggested trying to grab a bite to eat but Rarity pointed out that most of the decent places to eat would be fully booked on a day like this. I knew this was going to be true, and besides this wasn't meant to be a date.
“Why don’t you head back home and I’ll grab a takeaway from Hay Burger. You know, a bit of a guilty treat.”
Rarity had a smile on her face, one of the “A greasy takeaway....what a wonderful idea! Oh, I do love their burgers...”
“I know!” I beamed back.
“...but it’s hard for a lady of my position to go to a fast food place. Oh, a takeaway would be heavenly!”
I confirmed what Rarity wanted (like I didn't already know everything she liked!) and headed off to the fast food place. As I queued up I saw a lot of young couples having little dates. It may not have had the charm of one of the posher places for a date, but for the young and poor it didn't matter. They were together and thats all the counted...as were me and Rarity. As I waited for the order to be bagged, I reflected that it didn't mean anything, but simply that I had made one of my friends happy. As soon as the order was ready, I ran as quick as I could back to the boutique in order to serve up the food whilst it was still hot.
A Lonely Heart and Pampered Hooves
I entered the Boutique to see that Rarity wasn’t in the downstairs store. I called upstairs and Rarity invited me up to her sitting room. She had laid out a table with a plate for each of us and some apple juice already poured out. I inwardly smiled as Rarity simply couldn’t resist taking a greasy takeaway treat into something more refined.
I served the two lunches up on the plates and sat down. Both of us were pretty hungry so we started our meals with some gusto, conversation suppressed in favour of flavour. But the silence wasn’t awkward at all, it was just one of two friends being really comfortable around each other. Although unless I wasn’t mistaken, Rarity was acting a little different like she was still thinking about something.
But as the meal came to an end, it dawned on me that our time together was likely to be doing the same. With Rarity now cheered up, there was no real reason for me to stay given we were just friends. Still, it was nice whilst it lasted.
Rarity took the dirty dishes and returned to the room. I racked my brain to think of something to say to help me stay, but it wasn’t forthcoming. I therefore stood up from the table. “Well, I better leave you in peace. Hope you enjoy the rest of the day Rarity.”
Rarity seemed a little surprised by this, but then composed herself “Actually Spike, if you don’t mind, there’s something I would like to discuss with you?”
I agreed, and we retired away from the table into Rarity’s sitting room, her on one couch and me on another. I felt a little nervous and the next sentence didn’t help this.
“It’s about something you said earlier. When we were in the spa. What did you mean when you said you’ve seen me nude?”
“Well, most ponies don’t wear clothes, at least not all of the time. Is that a problem?”
She seemed to study my response “But do you know why disrobing in front of you is embarrassing for me?”
“Not really?” I replied a little confused “I mean, I’ve pretty much seen everything anyway.” I blushed a bit at the end.
Rarity just looked it me, one eyebrow raised in curiosity. I felt it was best to explain “Whoa whoa whoa, what I mean is 99% of the time my friends are all nude, you don’t think that it’s invisible or something do you?”
“Well, no…” Rarity replied, clearly studying my words. “It’s strange, I don’t think ponies notice.”
“Maybe it’s because I’m a different species or something?” I replied with a shrug “But I know it’s all a little private so I don’t stare or anything. But I really don’t get it. And I really don’t get why getting in and out of clothes is such a big deal if ponies don’t notice?”
Rarity paused for a moment “Well, theres a difference between being natural…” she breathed deeply as if gathering her thoughts “...and then getting undressed in front of somepony you, well -”
I had no idea that the next word was about to change everything
“- like.”
I was going to respond I didn’t understand the fuss but then it hit me “Like? You...like me?”
Rarity now had a blush that was small but noticeable on her face “Yes Spike, I like you. More than just a friend.”
If pauses could be pregnant, this would be a septuplets worth as we both analysed what this meant. I broke the silence first “You realise I still have a crush on you?”
“I think we both know it’s more than a crush Spike” Rarity replied “I mean, you moved passed being all lovey dovey into this great friendship we have. But you’ve grown up. Today showed me that. You put my happiness first, and didn’t expect anything in return. Nopony had ever been that kind to me.”
“I’ve been worried about expressing anything towards you given your crush on me” Rarity continued, looking over to me with a little concern “Especially as I wasn’t sure if you were really mature enough.”
Ouch! There it was, the fact that I couldn’t escape.
“Because I’m a baby dragon” I sighed despondently.
“No, no, no!” Rarity replied, quickly making her way over to me. She sat down next to me and put a hoof on my now slumped shoulder. “No, not physical maturity, emotional maturity.”
I turn to look at her, but let her continue “You always used to act a little childish round me. But, these past few months I think you’ve really grown. The new castle has allowed you to show how much of a responsible and mature young drake you really are.”
“Yeah, losing the old library really made me think about things.” We just looked at each other, awkwardly. I decided to break the tension “Well, I still don’t get the whole clothing thing!” I joked.
Rarity giggled slightly, and then a twinkle shone in her eye. “Wait here” she said, quickly darting off to her bedroom. I sat on the couch patiently for a while, thinking things through. I wasn’t sure if things were going well, or badly. Clearly I wasn’t mistaken all this time that Rarity had felt something for me, but always seemed to be holding back. Was it because she thought I was just a child?
My thought were interrupted by a heavenly voice “Oh Spike, would you come to my bedroom please?”
As I entered the room, I noticed the curtains were partially drawn and the door shut by magic behind me. Rarity was sat on a chair, wearing one of her bathrobes. As I walked towards, her, she motioned for me to stop. She then stood up and let the robe fall off.
I took it all in as a picture of both beauty and fashion. A tight bodice style saddle hugged her trunk, as tight fitting as a corset but without the restriction, covering from her dock all the way to her shoulder. The material was a deep purple and there were a few tiny sequins embedded along piped edges. And she was wearing stockings held up by lacy garters.
And around her neck was the Heartstone necklace. The symbol of the feelings I expressed to her when we were facing our final moments together.
I stood there basically paralysed as I drank it in. Not just the beauty of the pony and her clothes, or the attraction I felt. But also what it meant between us. With a slight giggle she slowly walked towards me “You see that by actually covering myself up, I’ve made myself seem that much more alluring.” She circled around me, my head following her. I swore she was swaying her hips deliberately and even swung her tail into my face. She then posed in front of me and my brain seemed to turn into mush.
“So, do you like?”
I may have been in a bit of a stupor, but I realised something. She wasn't asking to be teasing, but there was a hint of genuine concern there. I know Rarity hadn’t been on any serious dates before, and she took pride in the fact that she had never let herself be courted for the sake of it. I was probably the first creature she had ever done this sort of thing with. Her tone of voice, her eyes, the nervousness of the pose.
She was just a mare, standing in front of a drake, wanting to be loved.
“Rarity, it wouldn't matter if you were covered in mud and wearing a sack, you would still be the most beautiful pony in Equestria.” The words came so easily for me.
The sparkle in her eyes was all I needed to know that was exactly what she wanted to hear, but her next actions spoke louder than any words ever could. She basically pounced on me, pushing me a little forcefully backward onto my back, Rarity landing gently on top of me. She combed my head spines with a hoof as she spoke “Spike, you always showed me love even when I didn't deserve it. And I know you’re now mature enough to understand a proper relationship. Will you forgive me for all the time I made you wait?”
“Some things are definitely worth waiting for” I replied, surprised by my own poetry.
The sapphire eyes burned into mine, but there was something I had to say “Rarity, I'm kinda pinned under you right now.”
“I know, my Spikey Wikey” she cooed back,using her pet name for me for the first time today “Why, do you want me to move away?
“Huh, not really” I admitted. Because I course I didn’t, especially as I looked into the eyes. The eyes of a pony that always shined, but today seemed even more radiant and pure than ever before. I then saw Rarity leaning in towards me. I raised my head slightly in response, both of our eyes softening as we titled our heads to the side.
Our lips touched.
Fireworks went off in my brain.
A part of me couldn't believe it was happening, that after all this time it had finally happened. The kiss was fairly chaste and only lasted but a few scant seconds, but in those moments everything changed...
As I walked back towards the castle I reflected on the past hour or so. Rarity and I had only kissed the once, but then sat down to discuss things properly. We had decided that it was best not to hide the relationship from our friends, and next time we saw any of them we would let them know.
We also agreed that we had to go slowly. We were good friends, and had spent a lot of time together, but now we needed to get to know each other in a whole different way. It was probably going to be a while before I got to see Rarity's lingerie again, but that wasn't part of the relationship either of us was in any rush to explore. Besides, all good things come to those who wait.
As soon as I reached the castle, I found Twilight as quickly as possible. I guided her to a sitting room, made her a cup of tea, sat down and told her everything about the day (well, not all the details, she is my mother afterall). She was silent as I spoke, and I started to fear she wouldn’t approve. As I finished, I looked up to her hopefully.
“I am so happy for you two!” Twilight gushed, wrapping me up in a big hug. Comforting words were exchanged between us, and all my fears dissipated. That was until Twilight reminded me of an old promise.
“Yes, I explained to Rarity that already, and we’re going tomorrow.” I replied.
Author's Note
Please note that this is another short story, with only one or two more chapters to go.
A Lonely Heart and Pampered Hooves
Rarity and I was sat on the first train to Canterlot. It was still early in the morning, but a number of business ponies were also on the train, no doubt having a busy day ahead. I was bearly awake, having never been a morning dragon. This was of course ironic given that Celestia herself had raised me for the first year of my life until Twilight took over.
Rarity was sat reading a fashion magazine, looking as impeccable as always. I doubt most ponies would have bothered doing their full makeup and styling routine for such an early train, but Rarity was special like that The best way to bring beauty to the world is to start with yourself, but make sure not to finish there…
I must have been watching her for a while as her voice suddenly jolted me “See something you like?” she teased, looking over the top of her magazine.
“Sorry, I shouldn’t stare!” I flustered in response.
“It’s no problem Spike, I’m your special somepony, you're allowed to now!” Rarity smiled, before going back to her magazine.
I practically jumped for joy internally. Rarity had called me her special somepony in public for the first time. My marefriend, because that’s what she was now, wasn’t afraid to make her feelings known publicly. I just hoped that lasted after today.
The walk between the train station and the castle was a familiar one for both of us, but I could tell Rarity was nervous. I was nervous so Rarity had to be. We travelled in silence but made sure we stuck right next to each other, close enough that every so often we would bump into each other. It was a nice way of expressing our feelings in public without drawing too much attention. That, and there is no way we can walk claw in hoof given ponies quadruped nature.
Reaching the palace, the guards let us through the gate on sight, an advantage of being a former resident and national hero I guess. There wasn’t a queue today as court was closed, and we both knew the reason for that. Reaching the castle proper, we were directed to the throne room and when we walked in both Princess Luna and Princess Celestia were sat waiting for us.
Walking up to them, Rarity took in a deep bow “Princess Celestia, Princess Luna.”
“Hi Celestia, Hiya Luna!” I added, completely informal around them. Afterall, they both have told me that they were no Princesses to me as a Dragon, and this was especially true now Twilight is also a princess.
Celestia stood up and spoke very formally “Spike, your letter has made it clear why you are here. Please go with Luna whilst I speak to Rarity.”
Rarity and I looked at each other, both filled with nerves at how cold the Princess was being. Celestia had always told me that should I ever wish to have a relationship with a pony, that I had to come and speak with her with the mare as soon as it started. I had no idea what she wanted to say, but was nervous that we were splitting up.
Despite the urge to tell Princess no, that we would stay together, I knew my place was to accept the instructions and glancing once at my nervous marefield, I followed the order.
Luna and I found ourselves in her private chambers. It was a place I hadn't been to before, and as I entered I had a look around. As you would expect, the colour scheme was very different from Celestia’s being filled with darker tones and thick curtains that were partially drawn to hide most of the light outside.
We sat together at a table where Luna served up some drinks and a few small cakes as a late breakfast for me, and supper for her.
“Nice room, very…you” I complimented the Princess of the night.
“Thank you Spike. Did you know that Celestia had much of it already prepared for my return? Of course I made my own changes, but it was very considerate of her.”
We both sipped our drinks, and then looked at me. “So you finally won Rarity over?” she asked warmly.
“Yeah, on Hearts and Hooves day no less.”
“How cliche!” Luna giggled “But then I made my return to Ponyville on Nightmare Night, so what do I know.”
We both smiled at this. I could tell she was putting my mind at ease and trying to get me to relax.
“Spike, I’m sure you expected Celestia simply to bless the two of you or something, but we both agreed it’s not that simple. As you are an important part of Equestria, being related to royalty and the twice hero to the Crystal Empire. We therefore decided that we may have to get a bit more involved than usual.”
“Okay?” I replied nervously.
“You see Spike, young love can be complicated as it is, but as a dragon you will suffer a number of extra challenges in your relationship with anypony. We want to make sure both of you are prepared for some of the issues you will face. This may seem like we are interfering, but in our combined lifetime we’ve learnt a lot.”
“Like what?”
“Well, to put it bluntly, you will outlive her. Many times over.”
I just sat there surprised at this was the first thing Luna brought up “It...it doesn’t matter. In fact, knowing this in advance mean we can plan for it…”
“And as Rarity grows older, you will only be reaching the prime of your life” Luna interrupted “We know how that feels!”
“I will love her anyway!” I almost shouted before catching myself “I don’t care if she does get old, and wrinkly, she will always be the most beautiful pony in the world to me.”
Luna took a sip of drink and smiled. I realised what I had just said and knew that I meant it. It would be a challenge for us, but one we could overcome.
“But your lives together will also be filled with obstacles. What about foals?” Luna then asked, causing me to slightly blush “You must be aware that a pony and a dragon cannot have a child of their own.”
The mental image of us even trying was making me blush, but the seriousness of the point was not lost on me “If we can’t have a foal, then so be it!”
Luna looked at me seriously “Indeed, but does Rarity want them?”
“I...I don’t know” I admitted, the princesses face softening slightly as her point hit me hard.
“The desire to foal can grow very strong for a mare, and yourself my find the want to procreate to grow in time. A common pitfall in relationships can be the issues regarding foaling.”
I sat their stumped, but in my heart I had an answer “We can adopt. Rarity is so generous that being able to brighten up some unfortunate foals life with bring her so much joy. And the chances of me finding a dragon I could ever care for are zero anyway!”
I could tell Luna’s calm exterior threatened to break slightly as I uttered those words, as my own voice cracked a little with emotion. But Luna was a practised statesmare and so composed herself with another bite of cake.
“You do also realise that this may harm Rarity’s fashion career? Not everypony is going to take kindly to a dragon and a pony being together”
I always choked on my bite of cake hearing this as it’s something I haven't considered. Luna continued with “If some of her rivals sense this, they will take every opportunity possible to undermine Rarity.”
This was something that shook me to the bone. Rarity loved her fashion career, and despite paying the bills and being her job, it meant so much more to her. “I wouldn't do anything to hurt Rarity. But I believe her fashions will speak for themselves. Besides, I doubt anypony in Ponyville or the Crystal Empire will have a problem with me, and I think Canterlot would be quite accepting of us. If the other cities have a problem, we won’t care as we’ll have each other!”
Luna seemed a little impressive with my passionate response, but remained cold “Do you speak for Rarity in this matter?”
Again, I had the same answer “I...I don’t know”
“Which leads onto the final issue...any Breakup between you two will be very tough.”
“We won’t breakup” I protested
“Regardless of your feelings to each other, sometimes things don’t work out. But Rarity is a member of the Council of Friendship, and you live with the Princess of Friendship. How would it feel seeing her so regularly, fighting evil together, if she was to break your heart?”
I had no response to this, as it was something I hadn't ever considered. I just sat there, most likely looking a little depress as I had a lot to think about. Clearly Luna, and presumably Celestia, had carefully considered the issues should I ever date. I know they were only looking out for me, and a comforting warm dark blue wing I found wrapped around myself confirmed this.
“Neither Celestia or I will ever try to interfere directly with your relationship Spike, but we felt we had to make sure both you and your partner was going into this with eyes wide open”.
Rarity and I met up in the guest suite, where Rarity had stayed the time she had come up to Canterlot to visit by herself. My marefriend seemed to be calm, if a little perturbed by her conversation with Celestia which she told back to me.
Rarity followed Princess Celestia into the formal chambers where a breakfast tea service was already set out. The Princess took a seat and Rarity did the same, placing a napkin between her and the table as a proper lady should. As Celestia poured them both a cup, Rarity looked around nervously. Despite being in the castle before, and even spending a few moments alone with the goddess of the sun, Rarity had never been called to see Celestia before.
“Well, I hadn’t expected this meeting with you.” Princess Celestia started “I always wanted to see the mare, or whomever, Spike had decided to get into a relationship very early on. The first reason was to check that they were of good character and not just using him to get up in the social standings. Of course, I know you are of outstanding character.”
“Thank you, your highness.” Rarity smiled back, a smile of nerves more than a response to the compliment.
Celestia looked warm, yet distant at the same time.“So that just leaves the second part of why I wanted to see Spikes special somepony. Tell me Rarity, what do you know about Dragons?”
“I know the basics from Spike and Twilight, as well as seeing them naturally that time we went with Spike on the dragon migration.”
“I see, so you should be well aware of some of the difficulties you two will suffer?”
“Yes Princess.”
“So, what would you do if Spike tried to hoard?” Celestia asked.
“I would do whatever I could to try to stop him. We are both aware of his underlying nature and will do our best to ensure we don’t do anything to set it off. Of course being the embodiment of pony generosity will make that task both easier, and more difficult.”
Celestia nodded in response, but Rarity wasn’t finished. “And if need be I would of course call on Twilight, or yourself, to intervene. I wouldn't care if Spike hated me for it, I know it would be in his best interest. Besides, when he had calmed down, I’m sure I could do something to make him happy that didn’t involved material things!”
Celestia smiled at Rarity, and the unicorn felt that the Princesses respect for her had edged up a notch.
“Well, a dragons hoarding is not just material things. As you may be aware, a male dragon does not just take one mate, but has a lounge of around four females. What about if Spike feels the same urge?”
Rarity took a sip of tea, to give herself time to think “It is not unknown for modern ponies, of the persuasion at least, to still work on a herd basis. I can’t see why I couldn't share a home with other mares.”
“You would do that?” Celestia replied a little in shock.
“It’s not my ideal relationship, your highness, but if it is what Spike needs to be happy, and we could find a suitable mare...or three...then I think we could make it work.”
Celestia took a sip of tea “I hadn't expected THAT answer from you Rarity, but that does raise a concern. Are you going to be too generous towards Spike?”
“No, I don't think I will. May I be blunt with you?”
“Of course”
“Thank you. Someponies may feel that I’ve strung Spike along for a long time, that I’ve used and abused him. Whilst it may appear that way, I have not done so to be cruel.”
“Oh?”
“I have made Spike work to earn his chance with me, in the same way anypony else would have had done to court me. Maybe, a little more so given his position as Twilight’s...whatever. But in doing so, I’ve hopefully helped him mature into a very reasonable young dragon. One that has to work to get his rewards. And over the years he’s learnt that lessons in other ways, like the ill fated critter-sitting adventure.”
Celestia smiled a little “I remember reading about that!”
“I finally think he is mature enough, by pony standards, to handle a relationship. And I will always remind him that he has to earn his way in life which means to give in order to receive.”
“I see Rarity, that is very wise of you.”
“Thank you, your highness”
“But what about other difficulties? Have you thought them all through?”
“I don’t know, you can never expect the unexpected. I’m sure there will be a lot, but the same is true for any relationship. All I know is that Spike and I will have to face them like anypony else.”
After Rarity had told me her side of the story, and I had replayed my chat with Luna, we sat there in silence thinking, cuddled up next to each other.
Author's Note
Sorry in the delay in this chapter. I've been working on a video but will now get this story finished.
A Lonely Heart and Pampered Hooves
It was a beautiful spring day which was perfect weather for the weekly pony/pet playdate. I walked next to Twilight towards the usual meeting point. Twilight had a picnic blanket draped over her back with Owlowiscious perched on top, whilst I was carrying a picnic basket in my claws. Depsite the lovely day, I was feeling just as nervous as when we went to meet the princesses. Today was when me and Rarity were going to tell our friends about us.
As we walked along with my adoptive mother, we saw Lyra and Bon Bon sitting together on a bench. Despite their insistence that they were just good friends, everypony saw how they looked at each other. Society was more accepting of same-sex relationships and it was a shame they felt the need to hide it. I hoped that they at least enjoyed being together in private.
The fact we saw Bon Bon shopping for a larger bed suggests they are!
We arrived and I laid out the picnic whilst Twilight went for a short flight with her pet. One by one our other friends arrived, and soon all five of our friends and their pets arrived. and were frolicing around the park. Times like this I did miss PeeWee, but i knew giving him up was the best thing for him. Obviously Rarity had spoken to Opalescence as unlike she usually did as she didn't attack me on sight, but whilst she was a nice cat...she wasn't a cool phoenix.
After a short while, the ponies and myself sat down to chat whilst the pet's continued their weird sort of hide and seek game they played. I was sat between Twilight and Rarity, by design.
“So, whats new?” Rainbow Dash asked.
“Well, actually, I have some news.” Rarity spoke, before slightly shifting closer to me “Or more accurately we have some news.”
“Oh, what is it?” Pinkie bounced.
“Well...Spike and I are dating.”
There was a moment's pause before anypony spoke “Oh, that’s wonderful” Fluttershy gasped in the soft way she does.
“So, you to are an item now?” Applejack looked at us a little curiously.
“Do you have a problem with that?” Rarity asked a little defensively.
Applejack eyes narrowed a tadge “Not exactly sugarcube, but it does seem a bit sudden.”
“Sudden?” I scoffed light heartedly “I’ve been waiting for this for two years!”
Rarity rolled her eyes whilst Twilight let out a small giggle.
“Hey, I didn’t mean to judge. I’m just looking out for my friends. I mean, Spikes been fawning over you for years and now suddenly your a couple. It’s great if it’s true, and I’m happy for ya. I just don’t want to see anypony hurt.”
Rarity let the scowl she had building fade “Well, Applejack, thank you for your concern. But trust me when I say we haven’t rushed in to this…”
“Again, two years.” I repeated, allowing everyone to chuckle a little.
Rarity continued “I mean, we’ve already been to see the Princesses and have discussed our feelings in detail. Believe me when I say we’re both on the same page.”
“Are you sure you’re two are both on the same page? I mean, its not like you two are showing much affection to each other.” Applejack continued. I would have been mad at her except of course it’s her honest nature.
“Yeah, don’t new couples usually, like, make out all the time?”Rainbow Dash hovered in the air as she spoke.
“I’m hoping we are a little more mature than that!”Rarity protested.
“So have you guys kissed at all?”the pegasus continued.
Good old Rainbow Dash, so blunt and intrusive I thought to myself, my annoyance rising a bit “That's between me and Rarity...we aren't a side-show at a fair!”I protested
That line seemed to make Rainbow look away a bit sheepishly “Sorry”
An uneasy tension remained “Sorry Rainbow, but we both suspect that some ponies are going to consider this unnatural. I didn't mean to snap.” Rainbow sort of shot me an apologetic smile and we hoof-bumped as a sign of forgiveness.
“Pinkie, you’ve been a little quiet” my marefriend asked “I had half expected a party canon to have blown up in my face by now.”
Everypony turned towards the pink pony that seemed a little subdued “Can I be honest?” Pinkie asked. Both myself and Rarity nodded “Well, I am happy for you guys, but will this really make you happy?”
Rarity stood up and went to sit down next to her “Pinkie, darling, I know you don’t like the idea of ponies breaking up after what happened with your parents, but trust us when we say we’re in this for the long haul.”
I saw where Rarity was heading with this “My feelings for Rarity were strong enough to undo the power of a greed growth spurt…”
“...and my feelings for Spike was the powerful kick I needed to defeat the Nightmare spirit once and for all”
“And the important thing is I, and I’m sure Rarity agrees, is that we don’t care what other ponies think about us.” I smiled at my marefriend.
“But, it would be nice to know we have the blessing of our five best friends.” Rarity finished.
“You guys totally have my support, it’s awesome!” Rainbow Dash added enthusiastically.
“I know I’m going to have to live with a lovesick dragon whatever I say, so I might as well agree.” Twilight added, ruffling my spine quills gently.
“I vote for love” Fluttershy squeaked, giving a little wink towards me as she did.
“A unicorn and a dragon...stranger things have happened” Applejack mused “Although it’s hard to think of one of the top of ma head.” she teased, her way of expressing a yes.
We turned to pinkie pie only to see she had a moustache on and was rubbing her hooves menacing “Oh, this party is going to be epic, and when you least expect it”she said in a cold tone.
Rarity turned to me a little confused “I think that means yes, doesn’t it?”
As expected, Pinkie Pie’s party was off the wall. The whole of Ponyville was taking part. Little did we know how many people were invested in mine and Rarity’s relationship.
New couples understood the joys of a new relationship.
Old couples saw the signs of true love
Fillies and Colts saw it as a weird disgusting thing adults did, although more than once I saw Sweetie Belle and a brown colt looking at each other.
As the party wound down, I escorted Rarity home whilst Fluttershy and Twilight tried to help get a drunk Rainbow Dash back to her cloud home. As we walked together, we discussed the nights sky, finding the whole thing rather romantic. Reaching Carousel Boutique, we stopped outside.
“Thank you for a wonderful evening Spike” Rarity flashed her eyelashes at me, and slowly leant forwards. I replied in the same and soon our lips met.
Our first kiss was passionate in it’s speed, but chaste. This was very different. It was slow and deliberate, the expression of true feelings between us. The first let off fireworks in my brain, but this more like a deep pleasure caressing my very soul.
After what seemed the perfect length of time, we parted our touch. I stood a little confused as what next to do, but Rarity always knew how to handle any situation.
“Well, this was our first date Spike...it’s another two before you get to come back inside with me” she winked as she turned around a little suggestively and then closed the door.
I stood there and didn't care that there was a wall between us, but it’s was only a physical wall. As I walked back towards the castle I realised that a few days ago the metaphorical wall between me and Rarity had come down, hopefully forever.
Author's Note
If you were expecting more - Apologises for a short and final chapter. Rather then delete this story (which I have done with some other works) I just put an end to it. My head isn't into writing right now so I putting stories to an end before I start on a new large work.
