Hearts, Home, and Dragonsby Dragonzero77ChaptersQuiet embersBurning questionsPlaying with fireHot Off The PressesLighting the candlesQuiet embersWings spread upon the brilliant silver winds as the sun set into the infinite skies of the soul only to never know rest. Claws that rend into the very ground as the dead awakens only to find the moon has risen bringing their nightmares to life once more. Eyes as sharp as a blade that only brings death with its first stroke bringing dread to those still amongst the living. All that they see as they look upon me with disdain is something royal, something to be feared, and something to be hated.......... He wrote within his notebook as the train chugged along the rails going further and further to where he was headed. He shook his head lightly as to shrug off his own feeling of guilt that was nowhere based within reality. As he closed his notebook the call for his stop could be heard coming up next. “Next stop, Ponyville. Ponyville, next stop have yer luggage ready for departure,” the gruff train pony engineer called out for all to hear. Wildfire stood up brushing off the remains of the tomato and basil sandwich he had for lunch while he was on the train from his fiery red coat. He began to readjust his vest before grabbing his only items; a small traveling case, and a rather large satchel holding his person fund within. As the train moved to a grinding halt he parted back his metal gray hair out of the way of his eyes, which were fierce amber yellow. As the unicorn stallion got off the train he gave a quick look from side to side, only to see nopony else there at the train station. Just as Wildfire saw the train depart, a pink colored mare came toward him, bounding with each and every step she took. “Hi! I'm Pinkie Pie. You must be new here to Ponyville. Do you like parties?” she asked with a bubbly smile and a wild looking mane swaying back and forth with her giggles. “Um... yes I am new here, and to answer your question I'm not too sure if I do,” Wildfire said with his controlled and quiet voice whilst turning his head in mild confusion. Pinkie looked Wildfire up, down and all around which is when she asked him, “You kind of look like one of my other friends except you got more fur. Whatcha hiding under the vest?” Wildfire lightly gripped his arm said, “I’m really sorry but I'd rather not talk about it” he asked politely looking away slightly. “Oh! Okie dokie loki I got it. Anyway, welcome to Ponyville, come by sugar cube corner later for your welcome to Ponyville party. Ummm..... What’s your name again?” she asked Wildfire. “Wildfire,” he told her with a bit of unease in his voice due to him becoming more and more uncomfortable with the current situation. “Okay Wildfire, I can’t wait for the party it’s gonna be so much fun!” Pinkie said with a tone of utmost joy and excitement in her voice. With that Pinkie said her goodbyes and bounded away happily as she would normally do. Wildfire wiped his forehead in relief as the situation was getting more awkward for him with each and every moment. As he walked into town he looked around trying to gauge what kind of place Ponyville was as he tried to head towards town hall. Every now and again he would ask somepony for directions, and from their reactions he could tell that the townsfolk would not give him any problems whatsoever. Wildfire then approached town hall. As he opened the door Mayor Mare could be seen leaving her office. Her secretary named Rank File looked up at at Wildfire from her desk. “I'm sorry the office is closing for the day, if you have business with any of the staff here it will have to wait till tomorrow,” Rank said with a polite tone within her voice. “I came here today to apply for residency and get assistance finding somewhere to live,” Wildfire said with a bit of disappointment in his voice as his head slightly begins to droop in sadness. “Hmm well if you really need a place to live, I know that there's rooms at the crystal castle that Princess Twilight Sparkle is keeping for renters,” she said with a genuine smile on her face. Wildfire's expression lightened as he said, “Thank you so much for all of your help. Can you please give me the directions to the castle?” After the directions were given, he bowed and took his leave. It took him some time to reach the location that Ms. Rank told him. Once he found it, however, a thought came to mind. How could something like this be so hard to find? It's a large crystal tree castle on the outskirts of town; you would think it'd stick out in the distance. Wildfire shook his head, reaffirming his resolve as he reached for the doorbell. After he rang the bell a voice, sounding male to Wildfire, called out, “Coming!” The door opened, and to Wildfire’s surprise a young purple dragon answered the door, asking in a somewhat cheery attitude, “Hi there, I’m Spike! Can I help you?” He looked up at Wildfire as he spoke. “Yes hello there. I’m Wildfire. I am here to inquire about something. Is Princess Sparkle home?” he asked with defined grace. “Umm yeah she’s here, but let me ask you something. Why does your breath smell like sulfur? Are you a dragon?!” Spike asked with blunt enthusiasm. “What? No no no I’m just your typical unicorn. See horn, fur, and everything!” Wildfire said with hushed nervousness trying not to show his teeth. “Righht, just your typical unicorn whose breath smells like sulfur and has silted pupils, totally not a dragon,” Spike quipped sarcastically before then calling out, “Twilight there’s a crazy dragon at the door!” Wildfire sighed out of frustration and then said, “I am here for one of the rooms for rent, and if this is going to be a problem then-” Spike then cut Wildfire off, shouting, “Twilight! Potential renter!” Within moments Wildfire was pulled magically through the castle at near break neck speeds straight to the princess herself. Burning questionsAs Wildfire's magical journey through the castle came to an end, he saw the Princess standing there with a happy smile on her face. At first Wildfire didn't know what to think of her as he had never been in the company of an actual Princess before. So, this is a princess huh? She seems like a decent enough pony to be around, Wildfire thought to himself while looking at Twilight. Wildfire reoriented himself as the spell wore off allowing him to freely move once more. “Hi there! I'm Princess Twilight Sparkle. I heard you’re here for one the rooms for rent?” she said with welcoming tones in her voice. Wildfire nodded. Twilight then smiled and put her hands together. “Perfect! The castle still feels empty with just me and Spike here,” she finished with a small sliver of sadness in her voice. She then spoke again. “Before we go any further I'd like to ask a few questions if that's okay?” she asked, shedding a small smile from her lavender muzzle. “Umm... sure, I can answer a few,” Wildfire replied with slight hesitation in his voice as he ruffled his metal gray mane in response. Twilight pulled out a quill and a scroll before speaking again. “Excellent! Okay first question right off the bat: what is your name?” she then waited patiently for his response. Wildfire spoke up in an awkward tone immediately. “Wildfire,” he said. “Okay Wildfire how old are you?” she asked in a polite tone. “Honestly, I've lost track,” Wildfire replied while shrugging his shoulders. Twilight furrowed her brow in confusion. “Lost track? How do you lose track of your own age? The only ones I know who do that but look young are Princess Celestia and Princess Cadence, but they’re both in quadruple digits, so that’s understandable. Just when were you born, anyway?” Wildfire looked away for a brief moment trying to find the right words. Eventually, he responded with, “What I mean Princess is that I do not look my age. After a while the years feel like nothing to me after all of the things I’ve seen. I’m just glad to be alive, let alone count how long, but if you truly seek some sort of figure then it would probably shock you” he said in an slightly melancholy tone. Twilight frowned as she took notes. While it was an emotional answer, it didn’t provide her with the specifics she desired. “Alright. So then...where are you from, originally?” she asked, seeking a hopefully less painful ‘get to know you’ topic. “It’s a far away place that you may, or may not have heard of depending on who you’re asking. Whenever I tell anypony that, they never believe me,” Wildfire said with a light hearted chuckle as he tried to hide his discomfort on the subject. “Really?” Twilight asked curiously, her eyes shining with eagerness. “Can you tell me which direction? North of here? South? East? West? Are you from space, or the core of the planet?” It was plain her credulity did not need to stretch much to conceive all sorts of possibilities at this point. Wildfire smiled seeing Twilight’s eagerness and curiosity. Afterwards he responded, “North, past the boundaries of the kingdom.” Twilight’s eyes widened. “Further north than the Crystal Empire? Is there anything further north than that? Cadence hadn’t mentioned anything of that since she and Shining Armor took over running the Empire.” Wildfire had a confused look upon his face. He ruffled his mane trying to think what he said that could have suggested he came from that far north. “The only thing past the empire is the glacial badlands which is the lowest tip of the northernmost polar region. I wouldn’t be able to live out that far, too cold for me,” Wildfire said whilst rubbing his arms at the mere thought of frost and ice. Twilight tilted her head. “But the only settlement of any size north of the traditional boundaries of Equestria is the Crystal Empire, and it only returned this year.” Wildfire’s eyes popped open in surprise. ”The Crystal Empire has returned?” He said in complete shock and astonishment. Twilight smiled widely. “Yes, just a few months ago. Spike and I were actually there, and played a pivotal part in freeing it from Sombra’s reign. They actually hail Spike as a hero there now.” She paused, her thoughts catching up to her. “Wait...how could you know about the Crystal Empire, but not know about its return? Princess Celestia said nearly all the details about the Empire were lost to history!” Wildfire gave a slightly pain filled chuckle. He then looked at her and began to explain. “I’ve been on the road for a very long time Princess. I havent had a real place to call home since mother and I left that place oh so long ago… I’ve been running ever since,” Wildfire said as he tried to hold in his emotions. Twilight stared in shock. “But...but the Crystal Empire’s been gone for over a thousand years! Ponies don’t live that long unless they’re alicorns.” Her eyes widen as she gasps aloud. “Are you an alicorn? Celestia didn’t say there were male alicorns! Are you a Prince? What are you a prince of? Where are your wings?” “ No Princess I’m not an alicorn, far from it to tell the truth. I hold no rank, and I hold no title whatsoever,” Wildfire began to shift his vest revealing his wings. “Do I look like an alicorn to you?” He said with a bitter sound to his voice. Twilight examined his wings closely. “Well, I have met some thestrals before - pegasi who have bat wings instead of avian - and similar nocturnal variations of unicorns and earth ponies in Luna’s Night Guard. You could be a night variant alicorn…” She leaned over for a closer examination of his wings. Wildfire spread his wings so she could get a closer look as a glimmer of scales from on top of the wing become visible. He then gave a light hearted laugh, smiled, and said, “Imagine that. Your the first pony ever to not be terrified just by looking at me. Usually they think I'm a freak, or some other kind of nonsense.”. Twilight gasped loudly as she spied the scales. “You aren’t an alicorn at all! These aren’t bat wings, they’re dragon wings! You’re a dragon/pony hybrid, aren’t you?” Wildfire nodded in response. Twilight squealed happily. “Oh my gosh, this is so exciting! I didn’t even know pony/dragon hybrids were possible! Tell me everything! Which parent was the dragon? How does your mixed heritage effect your magic? How about the effect of emotional surges, like greed growth? Do you experience those? Did you hatch from an egg or were you live born? Do you ha-” “Woah, woah, woah slow down! One question at a time please,” Wildfire pleaded as he tried to comprehend all of the Princess’s questions. Twilight smiled sheepishly. “Sorry. I tend to get a bit excited when I discover something new to learn.” She gathered her thoughts. “Alright. So...how far back in your ancestry does your dragon blood come?” Wildfire sighed slightly. “Not far, so to answer your question it is one generation back,” he said giving a light chuckle at the Princess’s curiosity. Twilight’s smile widened as she started taking notes. “So which parent was the dragon? And were you hatched from an egg or live born?” “Let’s see, mother was the dragon, and I was born from an egg or so I have been told. Anything else?” He asked in a slight witty retort. Twilight smiles. “Have you undergone any unusual magical transformations from your dragon side? Like greed growth?” “No, The magic in my body doesn’t act that way. At least from what I’ve experienced,” Wildfire said with an informative tone in his voice. “Really?” Twilight asked curiously. “And what exactly have you experienced as far as the draconic side of your magic is concerned?” “Well, breathing fire for one. Having a tougher hide than most ponies but no where near the toughness of my mother’s scales. Lastly, enhanced strength. All of these come in very handy for my talent and profession,” Wildfire said with a gleam of pride. “Really?” Twilight asks, intrigued. “What talent and profession is that?” Wildfire smiled then pulled out what looked like a blacksmith’s hammer out of his travel bag. “This, Princess, is what I use for part of my trade. My talent is working with metal.” He then pointed to the crest on his hammer. The insignia was an image of a hammer crossed with a stream of flame like a dragon’s breath. Twilight leaned in close to examine the insignia. “Is that your Cutie Mark?” she asked curiously. She knew that many Tradesponies marked the tools of their trade with their Cutie Marks. “Indeed it is, as I use my own flame for shaping and tempering the metal,” he said with a small, prideful smirk. “I would love to watch you work sometime,” Twilight breathed. “I’d read about dragonfire forging, but I never thought I’d get to see it happen.” “As you wish, it’s always heartening when another takes interest in the craft,” he said, a pleased look touching his face. Twilight smiled widely. “Alright, just one more question: a matter of biological curiosity given the differences between dragon and pony anatomy. One or two?” “What do you mean by one or two?”Wildfire asked with a rather odd expression on his face. Twilight’s cheeks became slightly tinged with pink. “Do you have one like a stallion...or two like a dragon?” she clarified, hopping against hope she wouldn’t have to get any more specific. Wildfire blinked for several moments trying to understand the meaning of the question. Wildfire blushed when he realized what she meant and held up his index finger in response. Twilight sighed in relief, glad to get past that slight faux pas, not having realized how awkward it would be. She managed an eager smile before changing the subject. “Okay, there’s an empty room you can use for a workshop right next to my laboratory,” Twilight began. “That just about covers all of the questions I have for now, so let me show you the room,” she offered with a gentle welcoming tone in her voice, turning to lead him downstairs. Wildfire followed her, eager to escape the former awkward conversation, although confusion and worry still plagued his thoughts. Finally, he forced himself to ask a question of his own, “Umm, what about the terms for rent?” he asked, holding up his rather large and heavy looking satchel. Twilight gave a small chuckle under her breath. “Hmm... tell you what; I’ll let you stay here rent free on one condition.” Twilight gave a slightly mischievous grin as she spoke. Wildfire’s eyebrows peeked in intrigue as he asked, “Oh, and what would that be Princess?” As he spoke, he kept his gaze fixed on her violet eyes. “The terms are simple. You get to stay here rent free if you help me with my research regarding dragon/pony hybrids. Every once in a while I’ll collect some samples from you, and run some tests on you every now and again. Samples like saliva,skin, hair, and maybe blood. Is...is that alright?” Twilight asked, her voice beginning to stammer slightly in sheer nervousness while waiting for Wildfire’s answer, realizing too late that this might not entirely be socially acceptable. Wildfire scratched the back of his head sheepishly. “Sure, I’m perfectly fine in doing some tests and giving samples,” he replied nervously. Wildfire paused for a brief moment and continued with, “Whatever that means.” Twilight’s eyes brightened. “Wonderful! Well there’s really only one thing left to say,” she said as a smile crossed her muzzle once more. “Welcome home, Wildfire.” Playing with fireTwo days had passed since Wildfire had moved in with the Princess. It took some time to get settled in and gather the things that Wildfire needed for his work. Items such as a smithy anvil and forge were brought in at Twilight's request. The sun shone bright that morning, and as the dawn broke the sounds of clanging metal upon a surface could be heard, echoing throughout the halls of the castle. Twilight awoke to the sound of Wildfire's working, only to see that Spike was knocking on her door. “Twilight! He's too loud!” Spike complained. “Tell him to quiet down!” he asked grumpily through the door. Twilight opened the door and saw a very agitated number one assistant holding what looked like a plush horse with a white coat and purple mane - which, now that Twilight thought about it, closely resembled her friend Rarity - between his arms. She gave him a slightly blank look before kneeling beside him. “Spike, that would just be rude,” she explained. “Wildfire's a tradespony...that likes to begin working at the crack of dawn. Well, at least we won't need an alarm clock anymore,” Twilight joked with a slight twitch in her voice. Spike then shook his head. “I’m gonna try to go back to sleep for a bit,” he replied sleepily. “Wake me when breakfast is ready.” Spike yawned as he tried to keep his eyes open. Twilight gave a slight exasperated sigh. “Well, time for me to get up, at least!” she exclaimed. “I’m going to take a look at what Wildfire’s up to.” As Twilight went down to the lower reaches of the castle all that could be heard once more was the striking of a hammer and a strange noise as though Wildfire was yelling. “Wildfire? Is it alright if I come in?” Twilight asked from outside the crystalline door. She was still getting used to the new architecture style, and wasn’t entirely comfortable. The banging of the hammer stopped as Wildfire opened the door. “Oh, Princess! What are you doing up so early in the morning?” he asked with genuine surprise in his voice. Twilight gave a sheepish smile. “Yeah, about that…” she began sardonically. “I heard some pretty loud noises coming from downstairs, and came to see what was happening.” Twilight’s curiosity was plain in her voice, as she tried to subtly tilt her head to see around Wildfire without drawing attention. Wildfire ruffled his mane, having a rather tired look on his face. In front of him was a typical blacksmith anvil, a plain square burning red hot atop it. “I am trying to fold these silver ingots into a square shape so I can make silverware, but silver is always tricky for me,” Wildfire said while pointing to the ingots at the table with a slight twinge of frustration in his voice. One of Twilight’s eyebrows rose up as she asked, “How are you able to keep the metal hot out of the fire so long? Silver doesn’t normally keep heat that well.” “Normally, yes, sliver does not keep heat very well,” Wildfire explained, “but due to my process, I can keep the material nice and hot for as long as I wish, as long as I keep it at the right temperature, and shape the fire into the what the final result will look like,”. Twilight’s eyes burst open with curiosity as she blurts out, “You can shape fire? Is it pony magic, or dragon magic? What are the limits to what shapes you can make? How does it help in your-” Wildfire quickly spoke up before being swept away by Twilight’s questions. “Twilight, you're doing it again,” he said in the most polite tone he could muster. “Sorry,” Twilight said as she blushed slightly. “Anyway, could you maybe show me how you shape your fire? I’m really curious on how it works.” Her eagerness beamed off of her like the rays of the morning sun. “Sure thing, any request on what I should shape?” Wildfire asked with a bit of comedic wit in his voice. “Hmm, how about something pretty and simple like a flower? Can you maybe do a chrysanthemum, or maybe a tulip?” Twilight said with genuine glee in her voice. Wildfire thought for a few moments. “Alright then. I need you to please stand back while I do this.” After Twilight had backed a safe distance away, Wildfire took in a deep breath. As he exhaled a flame with a more reddish hue came forth from his mouth. The fire began to coalesce, twisting, folding, and melding into a single solitary shape. Beyond the fire and the flames came a single burning rose floating in midair. Wildfire took hold of the stem. The rose did not burn within his hand as Wildfire help it out to Twilight. “My apologies princess, but I believe a rose would be better suited for somepony of your caliber,” Wildfire said in a sincere tone. Twilight began to blush as she stammered, “Umm, yes. T-that’s very beautiful.” She started to reach towards it, then hesitated. “Does it hurt to hold it?” “Not at all. I can assure you that it's quite cool to the touch.” Wildfire said as he handed Twilight the flaming flower. To her surprise it did not burn. It had weight, and texture. Twilight stood there astonished as she stared. “Wildfire, this is amazing!” she gasped in awe. “The level of magical skill to make something like this must be no small task.” “Most of my magic is in my flame, so in a sense the flame even when it’s outside my body is still an extension of myself,” Wildfire replied with a sliver of pride in his voice. Moments later Spike stepped into the room. “Hey Twilight, cool flower. where’d you get it?” he said curiously. Twilight looked to Spike with a smile. “Wildfire made it with his flame,” she said softly. She then thought to herself for a short time before asking, “Wildfire? Do you think it would be possible to teach spike how to shape his flame? I’m quite curious?” Wildfire put his hammer aside and began inspecting Spike as any instructor would. “I think I can do that,” he allowed. “It will give me something fun to do on my down time between orders.” Wildfire stroked his chin. “Well no time like the present to begin.” He cleared his throat. “Prepare thyself Spike!” Wildfire proclaimed with a dramatic flare. “Looks like I don't get any say in this do I?” Spike muttered in resignation. “Oh well, maybe this will be fun? Hour upon hour passed by as Wildfire instructed spike in the skill of fire shaping. At first Wildfire started him with simple shapes such as circles and squares, and teaching Spike how to dispel such flaming constructs safely. “Why do I have to dispel my shapes? It doesn’t make sense!” Spike growled in frustration. “Why indeed?” Wildfire remarked in a sage-like posture. “Now I must show you why it is crucial to maintain and safely dispel your constructs. Spike, I want you to conjure an image from your mind and make it real with your flame.” “That’s what I’ve been trying to do for the past five hours, and you either tell me to try again or to dispel!” Spike’s irritation and frustration became more and more apparent “I understand I’ve been a bit difficult, but I need you to learn to do it right before I teach you what fire shaping can really do. And so far for a beginner you show great promise.” Wildfire smiled softly. “Now Spike, I want you to pull this image from something you constantly think about, or desire the most as it is the easiest way to make a workable construct.” As Spike began to calm down he took in deep breaths as Wildfire had instructed, closed his eyes, and breathed out his trademark green flames. As the flames bellowed they began to twist and fold just as Wildfire’s had, but not as refined. Twilight had just come back with a tray of snack food for both Wildfire and Spike, yet to her surprise her mouth stood agape. “Why does that look like Rarity? And Why is she naked?! Wildfire what have you been teaching him?” Twilight blurted aloud in sheer embarrassment. Spike jerked as he heard Twilight’s embarrassed shout, and his concentration was broken. The indistinct flame shape flared, swirled, collapsed inward, and then exploded, the green flames expanding until they covered the entire room. When the flames died down and everyone could see again, all of their clothes had vanished. “While not how I intended to demonstrate why constructs have to be dispelled,” Wildfire muttered, doing his best not to let his eyes wander, “thank you for your assistance there, Twilight.” At that exact moment, Celestia blinked her eyes through the unexpected delivery that landed all over her while on the throne during Day Court. Neither Twilight nor Spike were the sort to play this sort of prank, so she felt something was amiss. Summoning a scroll and quill with her magic, she began to write. At the sudden realization that all of her clothes were gone, and that she was completely naked, Twilight gave a shriek of both utter terror and embarrassment, quickly trying to cover herself up with her arms as best she could. Wildfire instinctively turned toward her and then performed the action he tried to avoid earlier as he caught a glance at Twilight’s naked form. His expression became almost wooden as Wildfire’s face began slowly to contort into awkward discomfort. Twilight then ran, covering herself from the events that had just transpired. There stood Wildfire, bewildered, embarrassed, and left with an very odd sensation clawing at his chest. Spike snickered. “So, like what you saw?” Spike said as he poked Wildfire teasingly. “Nomorelessonstodaypleaseleavethankyou!” was the only thing that came out of Wildfire’s mouth as he pushed Spike out of the room to get changed. Hot Off The PressesMoments after both Twilight and Wildfire ran off from sheer embarrassment Spike gave out a rather large flame spewing blech as a letter landed in his hands in which it read. My Dear Fellow Princess and Former Student, Twilight, I was in the middle of court just a little earlier - a rather boring session if you must know - and I had let my mind wander to how you were doing in Ponyville, especially with your new castle. I know how important it is for you to socialize, and I feared the castle might put off some ponies just a bit. What should happen just as I think of you then for Spike’s flames to deliver something totally unexpected to me...a pile of clothing. Three complete outfits, including undergarments. Now, I’m well aware that sometimes your experiments can have...unexpected results, and I fully recognized a complete set of your clothes, and one of Spike’s. However, the third set was of a stallion’s clothes...and one I didn’t recognize. Now, I try not to pry into your personal life, especially now that you’ve fully stepped out on your own as a Princess and are no longer my student...but is there something you’d like to tell me? Your concerned and curious friend, Celestia. Spike laughed uproariously as he read the letter know that Twilight was a bit too frazzled to read it. He quickly obtained clothes to cover himself lest make things awkward later as he began to write. Dear Princess Celestia, I apologize, but Twilight really isn’t in the sort of way to be writing back, as she is probably in her room being rather embarrassed about the whole debacle. As to answer your question about the clothes, I’m afraid I am responsible for that. I have been taking lessons in a rather interesting way of using dragon fire under the instruction of our new tenant. My concentration broke, and then poof! All of our clothes vanished in a green burst of flame. This caused a rather funny scene, if you ask me. Again I apologize for the inconvenience. Twilight’s number one assistant Spike. Once he finished, he sent it away with a puff of green flame. It headed towards the princess with due haste. The clothing had just been cleared away for the sake of royal dignity when the response arrived. Catching it in her hand, Celestia unrolled it and read the contents. She did her best to maintain her equanimity, but a few snickers snuck their way out. Raising a hand, she declared a recess for Day Court, excusing herself to her private chambers. Reading the letter once more, she allowed her laughter to come full force before grabbing her own quill to pen a response. My Dearest Spike, I must say, I can well imagine why Twilight would be so embarrassed about this. As I only recently heard that she was looking for tenants, I imagine this stallion is one she only just met recently. Poor Twilight… Although I feel I must ask for clarification. You stated that this stallion was teaching you a new way to use your dragonfire. How is it he knows this discipline to teach you? Little is known about dragons or the magic of their flame; they are rather secretive about it. Your friend, Celestia. Signing the letter, she held it up to Philomena, who sent it off in her own magic flame, a golden swirl that would erupt green from Spike’s mouth. As Spike relaxed after sending off the letter, a mischievous smirk on his face, he was startled as another letter arrived via his flame. Confused, he opened it up, surprised to discover that Celestia had already replied. Spike laughed as he reached for his quill and a sheet of paper, and began to reply. Dear Princess Celestia, I do agree it is rather surprising that somepony would understand on how dragonfire would work, but this one is a little different. His name is Wildfire and he seems to be a pony dragon hybrid and he was trying to teach me what he called fire shaping. Hence the clothes and the explosion I described earlier to you. He is a bit of an odd pony, but he seems good enough you should of seen Twilight on the day he got here. Asking him so many questions about this and that. Your friend, Spike. With a mischievous grin and a small chuckle on what the princess might say next, Spike sent the letter off with a bit of green flame and some of his own curiosity. Celestia smiled softly as Spike’s prompt response arrived. Reading through it, she snorted in surprise. Grabbing her quill again, she quickly penned her own reply. Dear Spike, A pony-dragon hybrid, you say? I had no idea such a being existed. Please tell me everything you can about him. This is an unprecedented event. I will certainly be looking into my schedule so I can arrange an opportunity to meet him in person. However, I imagine that Twilight will cover any questions I might come up with regarding such a biological novelty, so please inform her that I would like regular reports regarding anything new she learns about him. Signed, Celestia. Quickly tying the scroll shut, she sent the letter off, struggling to keep herself calm. Spike waited, anticipating the next letter with curiosity driving him as he held the quill in his hand. With a green blech, the letter arrived. He quickly opened it, and shortly began hysterically laughing at what he read. He then inked his quill and began to write back. Dear Celestia, Your surprise sounded just like Twilight’s reaction to him when he came looking for a place to stay. Apparently he looks good for his age from what I heard. We’re not too sure how, but he’s originally from the Crystal Empire from a thousand years ago. Twilight didn’t really push him about it, since it seemed like a touchy subject. At first Twilight thought he was a thestral alicorn due to him apparently being a unicorn-dragon hybrid, what with the webbed wings and all. He’s a blacksmith, and apparently he developed his fire shaping to help him with his metalworking and forging, amongst other things. He offered to teach me at Twilights request after his early morning start work me up. He lives in the basement apartment, and Twilight hasn’t sound-proofed it yet to keep his working from disturbing us. As for your request, I’ll make sure to tell Twilight right away once I’m done here. Your pal, Spike. With a smile Spike quickly rolled up the letter and sent to celestia before heading over to check up on Twilight. As the response letter arrived on the wisp of green smoke, Celestia seized it eagerly to see what Spike had to say. Reading through it, she smiled happily. “A blacksmith, hmm? Well, they tend towards the muscular and rugged...a good compliment to Twilight’s bookishness...it will be good for her to have a new friend that so drastically contrasts with her...especially with her own reasons for trying to get to know everything about him.” Her eyes suddenly widened with realization, and she grabbed another scroll. Dear Spike, This particular letter is top secret. Twilight is never to know I even sent it. You’re already aware of the proper protocol regarding this. Now answer me this question. Your earlier letter implied that there was a moment that this ‘Wildfire’ and Twilight saw each other completely nude. Based on your knowledge of ponies...would you say they liked what they saw? Eager for answers, Celestia. With a smile, she sent the scroll off to Spike. As Spike entered the hallway that lead to Twilight’s room he could feel another letter coming up as he belched it out. As he began to read his eyes popped open in realization and with a devilish grin pulled out one last piece of paper and began to write. Dearest Celestia I can see what you’re trying to ask me, so I’ll just give it to you straight. The moment those two saw each other naked, I would have to say that they definitely liked what they both saw. Twilight ran off upstairs, blushing up a storm, and as for Wildfire? He just stood there frozen. As he is already red to begin with, it was hard to notice his embarrassment, and the only way I could tell was his inability to properly speak. And now princess I have a question for you? Should we tell anypony else? Your loyal friend, Spike Grinning ear to ear all the while writing Spike quickly sent the letter away at a feverous pace before knocking on Twilights door. “Twilight! You okay in there? I’ll be down the hall if you need anything!” he said and tried his best to control his eagerness. As the letter arrived, Celestia caught the scroll and quickly unrolled it. Quickly checking to make sure that she was, indeed, alone in her private chambers, she let out a happy squeal, tapping her feet excitedly on the floor. Grabbing another scroll, she penned a rather cryptic response. Dear Spike, Leave everything to me. Signed, Celestia. Sending that letter off, she then reached for another scroll and a different sending wavelength, preparing to write a letter to someone else. My Dearest niece... Lighting the candles“I can't believe you two talked me into this! Is this welcome party thing really necessary?” Wildfire exclaimed with a slightly irritated groan. “Aw, c'mon Wildfire it'll be fun! You do know how to have fun right?” Spike chimed in sarcastically with Twilight nodding in agreement. “Spikes right! Besides, I'm sure that all of my friends would love to meet you,” Twilight said with a slightly worried smile. Wildfire had been hesitant all morning, much to the young dragon and princess’s dismay. Twilight just could not place it. 'Why doesn't he want to go? After we all put in so much work to make this a great party? Pinkie’s going to be upset,' she thought to herself. Wildfire’s expression seemed to become more and more sour as the three left the castle. Wildfire had woken up that morning, not anticipating the events of a welcome party he was told was in the works, but he had forgotten about it due to the chaos that was moving in and all. “I... just don't like parties that much. That's all,” Wildfire insisted, tugging at his sleeves in discomfort. “I don't want to talk about it,” he continued as his irritability began to show even more. “I'm sorry to hear that,” Twilight said softly, placing a hand on Wildfire's shoulder to try and make him feel better. Spike smiled and chuckled. “Sorry to be the bearer of bad timing but...we're here!” Spike proclaimed as the trio turned the corner towards Sugar Cube Corner. As the door flung open a hearty “SURPRISE!!!” was all that was heard. Wildfire awoke with a pounding that rang between his ears. The glare from the shop’s lights began to hurt him just from looking at it. “...what just happened?” he groaned as he looked around the room in a daze. “You had two slices of cake and then your behavior became really...spastic,” Twilight offered as she came over from across the room. With a worried expression on her face, she sat beside him and said, “ From what I've gathered...it seems that dragon-pony hybrids can't handle sugar in mass quantities.” Wildfire groaned as the sound of Twilight's voice made the pounding in his head beat harder. “How much sugar was in that thing anyway?” he demanded, clutching his head to ease the pain. “I put in a whole bag to make sure the cake was super sweet!” Pinkie Pie chimed in gleefully as she fiddled with what seemed like a sea captain’s hat she was wearing. “What happened after the cake?” Wildfire asked Twilight. “My memory is really fuzzy.” “Well, after you had your two slices you were kind of quiet for a little while.” Twilight gestured to a sleeping Spike, who was laying in the corner of the room. “Spike was munching down on the gem cake that Pinkie made just for him. He offered you some, but you weren't really moving that much, which really had us worried. After that, you came up to Applejack and challenged her to an arm-wrestling competition in a rather...odd fashion. You kept switching from what I assume to be dragonic to normal speech when you said - and I quote - 'For I told them not to meddle in the affairs of dragons for you are crunchy and good with ketchup!' That sent everyone into a laughing fit expect Fluttershy for some odd reason.” Twilight’s recitation continued from dares directed to Rainbow Dash to causing Rarity to blush. Twilight fell silent for a moment before Wildfire asked, “Anything else?” She shook her head and gave him a smile. “Nope, that's all that happened.” Twilight turned her back to Wildfire as she tried to hide her blushing face. Wildfire looked towards Pinkie Pie. “Why are you wearing a captain's hat, anyway?” “Oh? This old thing?” Pinkie asked with a giggle. “Well I was in the mood to go sailing after the party. Care to join me?” Twilight gave a light chuckle. “I need to get these two home to rest, they've had a pretty busy day. Maybe next time?” “Sure sure, I'll make sure the ship is ready to sail,” Pinkie Pie replied with a playful grin. Twilight nodded as she picked up the sleeping purple dragon, then stepping over to Wildfire. With a pop of magic they were gone leaving the mares to talk amongst themselves. “By the way Pinkie, why do ya have that hat on?” Applejack asked with a curious tone. “You know there’s not a body a water fer miles?” “I don't need a body of water for this ship. As long as it sails everything's okie dokie loki!” Pinkie Pie giggled with a goofy grin on her face. Author's Note sorry for making you all wait so long.
Quiet embersWings spread upon the brilliant silver winds as the sun set into the infinite skies of the soul only to never know rest. Claws that rend into the very ground as the dead awakens only to find the moon has risen bringing their nightmares to life once more. Eyes as sharp as a blade that only brings death with its first stroke bringing dread to those still amongst the living. All that they see as they look upon me with disdain is something royal, something to be feared, and something to be hated.......... He wrote within his notebook as the train chugged along the rails going further and further to where he was headed. He shook his head lightly as to shrug off his own feeling of guilt that was nowhere based within reality. As he closed his notebook the call for his stop could be heard coming up next. “Next stop, Ponyville. Ponyville, next stop have yer luggage ready for departure,” the gruff train pony engineer called out for all to hear. Wildfire stood up brushing off the remains of the tomato and basil sandwich he had for lunch while he was on the train from his fiery red coat. He began to readjust his vest before grabbing his only items; a small traveling case, and a rather large satchel holding his person fund within. As the train moved to a grinding halt he parted back his metal gray hair out of the way of his eyes, which were fierce amber yellow. As the unicorn stallion got off the train he gave a quick look from side to side, only to see nopony else there at the train station. Just as Wildfire saw the train depart, a pink colored mare came toward him, bounding with each and every step she took. “Hi! I'm Pinkie Pie. You must be new here to Ponyville. Do you like parties?” she asked with a bubbly smile and a wild looking mane swaying back and forth with her giggles. “Um... yes I am new here, and to answer your question I'm not too sure if I do,” Wildfire said with his controlled and quiet voice whilst turning his head in mild confusion. Pinkie looked Wildfire up, down and all around which is when she asked him, “You kind of look like one of my other friends except you got more fur. Whatcha hiding under the vest?” Wildfire lightly gripped his arm said, “I’m really sorry but I'd rather not talk about it” he asked politely looking away slightly. “Oh! Okie dokie loki I got it. Anyway, welcome to Ponyville, come by sugar cube corner later for your welcome to Ponyville party. Ummm..... What’s your name again?” she asked Wildfire. “Wildfire,” he told her with a bit of unease in his voice due to him becoming more and more uncomfortable with the current situation. “Okay Wildfire, I can’t wait for the party it’s gonna be so much fun!” Pinkie said with a tone of utmost joy and excitement in her voice. With that Pinkie said her goodbyes and bounded away happily as she would normally do. Wildfire wiped his forehead in relief as the situation was getting more awkward for him with each and every moment. As he walked into town he looked around trying to gauge what kind of place Ponyville was as he tried to head towards town hall. Every now and again he would ask somepony for directions, and from their reactions he could tell that the townsfolk would not give him any problems whatsoever. Wildfire then approached town hall. As he opened the door Mayor Mare could be seen leaving her office. Her secretary named Rank File looked up at at Wildfire from her desk. “I'm sorry the office is closing for the day, if you have business with any of the staff here it will have to wait till tomorrow,” Rank said with a polite tone within her voice. “I came here today to apply for residency and get assistance finding somewhere to live,” Wildfire said with a bit of disappointment in his voice as his head slightly begins to droop in sadness. “Hmm well if you really need a place to live, I know that there's rooms at the crystal castle that Princess Twilight Sparkle is keeping for renters,” she said with a genuine smile on her face. Wildfire's expression lightened as he said, “Thank you so much for all of your help. Can you please give me the directions to the castle?” After the directions were given, he bowed and took his leave. It took him some time to reach the location that Ms. Rank told him. Once he found it, however, a thought came to mind. How could something like this be so hard to find? It's a large crystal tree castle on the outskirts of town; you would think it'd stick out in the distance. Wildfire shook his head, reaffirming his resolve as he reached for the doorbell. After he rang the bell a voice, sounding male to Wildfire, called out, “Coming!” The door opened, and to Wildfire’s surprise a young purple dragon answered the door, asking in a somewhat cheery attitude, “Hi there, I’m Spike! Can I help you?” He looked up at Wildfire as he spoke. “Yes hello there. I’m Wildfire. I am here to inquire about something. Is Princess Sparkle home?” he asked with defined grace. “Umm yeah she’s here, but let me ask you something. Why does your breath smell like sulfur? Are you a dragon?!” Spike asked with blunt enthusiasm. “What? No no no I’m just your typical unicorn. See horn, fur, and everything!” Wildfire said with hushed nervousness trying not to show his teeth. “Righht, just your typical unicorn whose breath smells like sulfur and has silted pupils, totally not a dragon,” Spike quipped sarcastically before then calling out, “Twilight there’s a crazy dragon at the door!” Wildfire sighed out of frustration and then said, “I am here for one of the rooms for rent, and if this is going to be a problem then-” Spike then cut Wildfire off, shouting, “Twilight! Potential renter!” Within moments Wildfire was pulled magically through the castle at near break neck speeds straight to the princess herself.
Burning questionsAs Wildfire's magical journey through the castle came to an end, he saw the Princess standing there with a happy smile on her face. At first Wildfire didn't know what to think of her as he had never been in the company of an actual Princess before. So, this is a princess huh? She seems like a decent enough pony to be around, Wildfire thought to himself while looking at Twilight. Wildfire reoriented himself as the spell wore off allowing him to freely move once more. “Hi there! I'm Princess Twilight Sparkle. I heard you’re here for one the rooms for rent?” she said with welcoming tones in her voice. Wildfire nodded. Twilight then smiled and put her hands together. “Perfect! The castle still feels empty with just me and Spike here,” she finished with a small sliver of sadness in her voice. She then spoke again. “Before we go any further I'd like to ask a few questions if that's okay?” she asked, shedding a small smile from her lavender muzzle. “Umm... sure, I can answer a few,” Wildfire replied with slight hesitation in his voice as he ruffled his metal gray mane in response. Twilight pulled out a quill and a scroll before speaking again. “Excellent! Okay first question right off the bat: what is your name?” she then waited patiently for his response. Wildfire spoke up in an awkward tone immediately. “Wildfire,” he said. “Okay Wildfire how old are you?” she asked in a polite tone. “Honestly, I've lost track,” Wildfire replied while shrugging his shoulders. Twilight furrowed her brow in confusion. “Lost track? How do you lose track of your own age? The only ones I know who do that but look young are Princess Celestia and Princess Cadence, but they’re both in quadruple digits, so that’s understandable. Just when were you born, anyway?” Wildfire looked away for a brief moment trying to find the right words. Eventually, he responded with, “What I mean Princess is that I do not look my age. After a while the years feel like nothing to me after all of the things I’ve seen. I’m just glad to be alive, let alone count how long, but if you truly seek some sort of figure then it would probably shock you” he said in an slightly melancholy tone. Twilight frowned as she took notes. While it was an emotional answer, it didn’t provide her with the specifics she desired. “Alright. So then...where are you from, originally?” she asked, seeking a hopefully less painful ‘get to know you’ topic. “It’s a far away place that you may, or may not have heard of depending on who you’re asking. Whenever I tell anypony that, they never believe me,” Wildfire said with a light hearted chuckle as he tried to hide his discomfort on the subject. “Really?” Twilight asked curiously, her eyes shining with eagerness. “Can you tell me which direction? North of here? South? East? West? Are you from space, or the core of the planet?” It was plain her credulity did not need to stretch much to conceive all sorts of possibilities at this point. Wildfire smiled seeing Twilight’s eagerness and curiosity. Afterwards he responded, “North, past the boundaries of the kingdom.” Twilight’s eyes widened. “Further north than the Crystal Empire? Is there anything further north than that? Cadence hadn’t mentioned anything of that since she and Shining Armor took over running the Empire.” Wildfire had a confused look upon his face. He ruffled his mane trying to think what he said that could have suggested he came from that far north. “The only thing past the empire is the glacial badlands which is the lowest tip of the northernmost polar region. I wouldn’t be able to live out that far, too cold for me,” Wildfire said whilst rubbing his arms at the mere thought of frost and ice. Twilight tilted her head. “But the only settlement of any size north of the traditional boundaries of Equestria is the Crystal Empire, and it only returned this year.” Wildfire’s eyes popped open in surprise. ”The Crystal Empire has returned?” He said in complete shock and astonishment. Twilight smiled widely. “Yes, just a few months ago. Spike and I were actually there, and played a pivotal part in freeing it from Sombra’s reign. They actually hail Spike as a hero there now.” She paused, her thoughts catching up to her. “Wait...how could you know about the Crystal Empire, but not know about its return? Princess Celestia said nearly all the details about the Empire were lost to history!” Wildfire gave a slightly pain filled chuckle. He then looked at her and began to explain. “I’ve been on the road for a very long time Princess. I havent had a real place to call home since mother and I left that place oh so long ago… I’ve been running ever since,” Wildfire said as he tried to hold in his emotions. Twilight stared in shock. “But...but the Crystal Empire’s been gone for over a thousand years! Ponies don’t live that long unless they’re alicorns.” Her eyes widen as she gasps aloud. “Are you an alicorn? Celestia didn’t say there were male alicorns! Are you a Prince? What are you a prince of? Where are your wings?” “ No Princess I’m not an alicorn, far from it to tell the truth. I hold no rank, and I hold no title whatsoever,” Wildfire began to shift his vest revealing his wings. “Do I look like an alicorn to you?” He said with a bitter sound to his voice. Twilight examined his wings closely. “Well, I have met some thestrals before - pegasi who have bat wings instead of avian - and similar nocturnal variations of unicorns and earth ponies in Luna’s Night Guard. You could be a night variant alicorn…” She leaned over for a closer examination of his wings. Wildfire spread his wings so she could get a closer look as a glimmer of scales from on top of the wing become visible. He then gave a light hearted laugh, smiled, and said, “Imagine that. Your the first pony ever to not be terrified just by looking at me. Usually they think I'm a freak, or some other kind of nonsense.”. Twilight gasped loudly as she spied the scales. “You aren’t an alicorn at all! These aren’t bat wings, they’re dragon wings! You’re a dragon/pony hybrid, aren’t you?” Wildfire nodded in response. Twilight squealed happily. “Oh my gosh, this is so exciting! I didn’t even know pony/dragon hybrids were possible! Tell me everything! Which parent was the dragon? How does your mixed heritage effect your magic? How about the effect of emotional surges, like greed growth? Do you experience those? Did you hatch from an egg or were you live born? Do you ha-” “Woah, woah, woah slow down! One question at a time please,” Wildfire pleaded as he tried to comprehend all of the Princess’s questions. Twilight smiled sheepishly. “Sorry. I tend to get a bit excited when I discover something new to learn.” She gathered her thoughts. “Alright. So...how far back in your ancestry does your dragon blood come?” Wildfire sighed slightly. “Not far, so to answer your question it is one generation back,” he said giving a light chuckle at the Princess’s curiosity. Twilight’s smile widened as she started taking notes. “So which parent was the dragon? And were you hatched from an egg or live born?” “Let’s see, mother was the dragon, and I was born from an egg or so I have been told. Anything else?” He asked in a slight witty retort. Twilight smiles. “Have you undergone any unusual magical transformations from your dragon side? Like greed growth?” “No, The magic in my body doesn’t act that way. At least from what I’ve experienced,” Wildfire said with an informative tone in his voice. “Really?” Twilight asked curiously. “And what exactly have you experienced as far as the draconic side of your magic is concerned?” “Well, breathing fire for one. Having a tougher hide than most ponies but no where near the toughness of my mother’s scales. Lastly, enhanced strength. All of these come in very handy for my talent and profession,” Wildfire said with a gleam of pride. “Really?” Twilight asks, intrigued. “What talent and profession is that?” Wildfire smiled then pulled out what looked like a blacksmith’s hammer out of his travel bag. “This, Princess, is what I use for part of my trade. My talent is working with metal.” He then pointed to the crest on his hammer. The insignia was an image of a hammer crossed with a stream of flame like a dragon’s breath. Twilight leaned in close to examine the insignia. “Is that your Cutie Mark?” she asked curiously. She knew that many Tradesponies marked the tools of their trade with their Cutie Marks. “Indeed it is, as I use my own flame for shaping and tempering the metal,” he said with a small, prideful smirk. “I would love to watch you work sometime,” Twilight breathed. “I’d read about dragonfire forging, but I never thought I’d get to see it happen.” “As you wish, it’s always heartening when another takes interest in the craft,” he said, a pleased look touching his face. Twilight smiled widely. “Alright, just one more question: a matter of biological curiosity given the differences between dragon and pony anatomy. One or two?” “What do you mean by one or two?”Wildfire asked with a rather odd expression on his face. Twilight’s cheeks became slightly tinged with pink. “Do you have one like a stallion...or two like a dragon?” she clarified, hopping against hope she wouldn’t have to get any more specific. Wildfire blinked for several moments trying to understand the meaning of the question. Wildfire blushed when he realized what she meant and held up his index finger in response. Twilight sighed in relief, glad to get past that slight faux pas, not having realized how awkward it would be. She managed an eager smile before changing the subject. “Okay, there’s an empty room you can use for a workshop right next to my laboratory,” Twilight began. “That just about covers all of the questions I have for now, so let me show you the room,” she offered with a gentle welcoming tone in her voice, turning to lead him downstairs. Wildfire followed her, eager to escape the former awkward conversation, although confusion and worry still plagued his thoughts. Finally, he forced himself to ask a question of his own, “Umm, what about the terms for rent?” he asked, holding up his rather large and heavy looking satchel. Twilight gave a small chuckle under her breath. “Hmm... tell you what; I’ll let you stay here rent free on one condition.” Twilight gave a slightly mischievous grin as she spoke. Wildfire’s eyebrows peeked in intrigue as he asked, “Oh, and what would that be Princess?” As he spoke, he kept his gaze fixed on her violet eyes. “The terms are simple. You get to stay here rent free if you help me with my research regarding dragon/pony hybrids. Every once in a while I’ll collect some samples from you, and run some tests on you every now and again. Samples like saliva,skin, hair, and maybe blood. Is...is that alright?” Twilight asked, her voice beginning to stammer slightly in sheer nervousness while waiting for Wildfire’s answer, realizing too late that this might not entirely be socially acceptable. Wildfire scratched the back of his head sheepishly. “Sure, I’m perfectly fine in doing some tests and giving samples,” he replied nervously. Wildfire paused for a brief moment and continued with, “Whatever that means.” Twilight’s eyes brightened. “Wonderful! Well there’s really only one thing left to say,” she said as a smile crossed her muzzle once more. “Welcome home, Wildfire.”
Playing with fireTwo days had passed since Wildfire had moved in with the Princess. It took some time to get settled in and gather the things that Wildfire needed for his work. Items such as a smithy anvil and forge were brought in at Twilight's request. The sun shone bright that morning, and as the dawn broke the sounds of clanging metal upon a surface could be heard, echoing throughout the halls of the castle. Twilight awoke to the sound of Wildfire's working, only to see that Spike was knocking on her door. “Twilight! He's too loud!” Spike complained. “Tell him to quiet down!” he asked grumpily through the door. Twilight opened the door and saw a very agitated number one assistant holding what looked like a plush horse with a white coat and purple mane - which, now that Twilight thought about it, closely resembled her friend Rarity - between his arms. She gave him a slightly blank look before kneeling beside him. “Spike, that would just be rude,” she explained. “Wildfire's a tradespony...that likes to begin working at the crack of dawn. Well, at least we won't need an alarm clock anymore,” Twilight joked with a slight twitch in her voice. Spike then shook his head. “I’m gonna try to go back to sleep for a bit,” he replied sleepily. “Wake me when breakfast is ready.” Spike yawned as he tried to keep his eyes open. Twilight gave a slight exasperated sigh. “Well, time for me to get up, at least!” she exclaimed. “I’m going to take a look at what Wildfire’s up to.” As Twilight went down to the lower reaches of the castle all that could be heard once more was the striking of a hammer and a strange noise as though Wildfire was yelling. “Wildfire? Is it alright if I come in?” Twilight asked from outside the crystalline door. She was still getting used to the new architecture style, and wasn’t entirely comfortable. The banging of the hammer stopped as Wildfire opened the door. “Oh, Princess! What are you doing up so early in the morning?” he asked with genuine surprise in his voice. Twilight gave a sheepish smile. “Yeah, about that…” she began sardonically. “I heard some pretty loud noises coming from downstairs, and came to see what was happening.” Twilight’s curiosity was plain in her voice, as she tried to subtly tilt her head to see around Wildfire without drawing attention. Wildfire ruffled his mane, having a rather tired look on his face. In front of him was a typical blacksmith anvil, a plain square burning red hot atop it. “I am trying to fold these silver ingots into a square shape so I can make silverware, but silver is always tricky for me,” Wildfire said while pointing to the ingots at the table with a slight twinge of frustration in his voice. One of Twilight’s eyebrows rose up as she asked, “How are you able to keep the metal hot out of the fire so long? Silver doesn’t normally keep heat that well.” “Normally, yes, sliver does not keep heat very well,” Wildfire explained, “but due to my process, I can keep the material nice and hot for as long as I wish, as long as I keep it at the right temperature, and shape the fire into the what the final result will look like,”. Twilight’s eyes burst open with curiosity as she blurts out, “You can shape fire? Is it pony magic, or dragon magic? What are the limits to what shapes you can make? How does it help in your-” Wildfire quickly spoke up before being swept away by Twilight’s questions. “Twilight, you're doing it again,” he said in the most polite tone he could muster. “Sorry,” Twilight said as she blushed slightly. “Anyway, could you maybe show me how you shape your fire? I’m really curious on how it works.” Her eagerness beamed off of her like the rays of the morning sun. “Sure thing, any request on what I should shape?” Wildfire asked with a bit of comedic wit in his voice. “Hmm, how about something pretty and simple like a flower? Can you maybe do a chrysanthemum, or maybe a tulip?” Twilight said with genuine glee in her voice. Wildfire thought for a few moments. “Alright then. I need you to please stand back while I do this.” After Twilight had backed a safe distance away, Wildfire took in a deep breath. As he exhaled a flame with a more reddish hue came forth from his mouth. The fire began to coalesce, twisting, folding, and melding into a single solitary shape. Beyond the fire and the flames came a single burning rose floating in midair. Wildfire took hold of the stem. The rose did not burn within his hand as Wildfire help it out to Twilight. “My apologies princess, but I believe a rose would be better suited for somepony of your caliber,” Wildfire said in a sincere tone. Twilight began to blush as she stammered, “Umm, yes. T-that’s very beautiful.” She started to reach towards it, then hesitated. “Does it hurt to hold it?” “Not at all. I can assure you that it's quite cool to the touch.” Wildfire said as he handed Twilight the flaming flower. To her surprise it did not burn. It had weight, and texture. Twilight stood there astonished as she stared. “Wildfire, this is amazing!” she gasped in awe. “The level of magical skill to make something like this must be no small task.” “Most of my magic is in my flame, so in a sense the flame even when it’s outside my body is still an extension of myself,” Wildfire replied with a sliver of pride in his voice. Moments later Spike stepped into the room. “Hey Twilight, cool flower. where’d you get it?” he said curiously. Twilight looked to Spike with a smile. “Wildfire made it with his flame,” she said softly. She then thought to herself for a short time before asking, “Wildfire? Do you think it would be possible to teach spike how to shape his flame? I’m quite curious?” Wildfire put his hammer aside and began inspecting Spike as any instructor would. “I think I can do that,” he allowed. “It will give me something fun to do on my down time between orders.” Wildfire stroked his chin. “Well no time like the present to begin.” He cleared his throat. “Prepare thyself Spike!” Wildfire proclaimed with a dramatic flare. “Looks like I don't get any say in this do I?” Spike muttered in resignation. “Oh well, maybe this will be fun? Hour upon hour passed by as Wildfire instructed spike in the skill of fire shaping. At first Wildfire started him with simple shapes such as circles and squares, and teaching Spike how to dispel such flaming constructs safely. “Why do I have to dispel my shapes? It doesn’t make sense!” Spike growled in frustration. “Why indeed?” Wildfire remarked in a sage-like posture. “Now I must show you why it is crucial to maintain and safely dispel your constructs. Spike, I want you to conjure an image from your mind and make it real with your flame.” “That’s what I’ve been trying to do for the past five hours, and you either tell me to try again or to dispel!” Spike’s irritation and frustration became more and more apparent “I understand I’ve been a bit difficult, but I need you to learn to do it right before I teach you what fire shaping can really do. And so far for a beginner you show great promise.” Wildfire smiled softly. “Now Spike, I want you to pull this image from something you constantly think about, or desire the most as it is the easiest way to make a workable construct.” As Spike began to calm down he took in deep breaths as Wildfire had instructed, closed his eyes, and breathed out his trademark green flames. As the flames bellowed they began to twist and fold just as Wildfire’s had, but not as refined. Twilight had just come back with a tray of snack food for both Wildfire and Spike, yet to her surprise her mouth stood agape. “Why does that look like Rarity? And Why is she naked?! Wildfire what have you been teaching him?” Twilight blurted aloud in sheer embarrassment. Spike jerked as he heard Twilight’s embarrassed shout, and his concentration was broken. The indistinct flame shape flared, swirled, collapsed inward, and then exploded, the green flames expanding until they covered the entire room. When the flames died down and everyone could see again, all of their clothes had vanished. “While not how I intended to demonstrate why constructs have to be dispelled,” Wildfire muttered, doing his best not to let his eyes wander, “thank you for your assistance there, Twilight.” At that exact moment, Celestia blinked her eyes through the unexpected delivery that landed all over her while on the throne during Day Court. Neither Twilight nor Spike were the sort to play this sort of prank, so she felt something was amiss. Summoning a scroll and quill with her magic, she began to write. At the sudden realization that all of her clothes were gone, and that she was completely naked, Twilight gave a shriek of both utter terror and embarrassment, quickly trying to cover herself up with her arms as best she could. Wildfire instinctively turned toward her and then performed the action he tried to avoid earlier as he caught a glance at Twilight’s naked form. His expression became almost wooden as Wildfire’s face began slowly to contort into awkward discomfort. Twilight then ran, covering herself from the events that had just transpired. There stood Wildfire, bewildered, embarrassed, and left with an very odd sensation clawing at his chest. Spike snickered. “So, like what you saw?” Spike said as he poked Wildfire teasingly. “Nomorelessonstodaypleaseleavethankyou!” was the only thing that came out of Wildfire’s mouth as he pushed Spike out of the room to get changed.
Hot Off The PressesMoments after both Twilight and Wildfire ran off from sheer embarrassment Spike gave out a rather large flame spewing blech as a letter landed in his hands in which it read. My Dear Fellow Princess and Former Student, Twilight, I was in the middle of court just a little earlier - a rather boring session if you must know - and I had let my mind wander to how you were doing in Ponyville, especially with your new castle. I know how important it is for you to socialize, and I feared the castle might put off some ponies just a bit. What should happen just as I think of you then for Spike’s flames to deliver something totally unexpected to me...a pile of clothing. Three complete outfits, including undergarments. Now, I’m well aware that sometimes your experiments can have...unexpected results, and I fully recognized a complete set of your clothes, and one of Spike’s. However, the third set was of a stallion’s clothes...and one I didn’t recognize. Now, I try not to pry into your personal life, especially now that you’ve fully stepped out on your own as a Princess and are no longer my student...but is there something you’d like to tell me? Your concerned and curious friend, Celestia. Spike laughed uproariously as he read the letter know that Twilight was a bit too frazzled to read it. He quickly obtained clothes to cover himself lest make things awkward later as he began to write. Dear Princess Celestia, I apologize, but Twilight really isn’t in the sort of way to be writing back, as she is probably in her room being rather embarrassed about the whole debacle. As to answer your question about the clothes, I’m afraid I am responsible for that. I have been taking lessons in a rather interesting way of using dragon fire under the instruction of our new tenant. My concentration broke, and then poof! All of our clothes vanished in a green burst of flame. This caused a rather funny scene, if you ask me. Again I apologize for the inconvenience. Twilight’s number one assistant Spike. Once he finished, he sent it away with a puff of green flame. It headed towards the princess with due haste. The clothing had just been cleared away for the sake of royal dignity when the response arrived. Catching it in her hand, Celestia unrolled it and read the contents. She did her best to maintain her equanimity, but a few snickers snuck their way out. Raising a hand, she declared a recess for Day Court, excusing herself to her private chambers. Reading the letter once more, she allowed her laughter to come full force before grabbing her own quill to pen a response. My Dearest Spike, I must say, I can well imagine why Twilight would be so embarrassed about this. As I only recently heard that she was looking for tenants, I imagine this stallion is one she only just met recently. Poor Twilight… Although I feel I must ask for clarification. You stated that this stallion was teaching you a new way to use your dragonfire. How is it he knows this discipline to teach you? Little is known about dragons or the magic of their flame; they are rather secretive about it. Your friend, Celestia. Signing the letter, she held it up to Philomena, who sent it off in her own magic flame, a golden swirl that would erupt green from Spike’s mouth. As Spike relaxed after sending off the letter, a mischievous smirk on his face, he was startled as another letter arrived via his flame. Confused, he opened it up, surprised to discover that Celestia had already replied. Spike laughed as he reached for his quill and a sheet of paper, and began to reply. Dear Princess Celestia, I do agree it is rather surprising that somepony would understand on how dragonfire would work, but this one is a little different. His name is Wildfire and he seems to be a pony dragon hybrid and he was trying to teach me what he called fire shaping. Hence the clothes and the explosion I described earlier to you. He is a bit of an odd pony, but he seems good enough you should of seen Twilight on the day he got here. Asking him so many questions about this and that. Your friend, Spike. With a mischievous grin and a small chuckle on what the princess might say next, Spike sent the letter off with a bit of green flame and some of his own curiosity. Celestia smiled softly as Spike’s prompt response arrived. Reading through it, she snorted in surprise. Grabbing her quill again, she quickly penned her own reply. Dear Spike, A pony-dragon hybrid, you say? I had no idea such a being existed. Please tell me everything you can about him. This is an unprecedented event. I will certainly be looking into my schedule so I can arrange an opportunity to meet him in person. However, I imagine that Twilight will cover any questions I might come up with regarding such a biological novelty, so please inform her that I would like regular reports regarding anything new she learns about him. Signed, Celestia. Quickly tying the scroll shut, she sent the letter off, struggling to keep herself calm. Spike waited, anticipating the next letter with curiosity driving him as he held the quill in his hand. With a green blech, the letter arrived. He quickly opened it, and shortly began hysterically laughing at what he read. He then inked his quill and began to write back. Dear Celestia, Your surprise sounded just like Twilight’s reaction to him when he came looking for a place to stay. Apparently he looks good for his age from what I heard. We’re not too sure how, but he’s originally from the Crystal Empire from a thousand years ago. Twilight didn’t really push him about it, since it seemed like a touchy subject. At first Twilight thought he was a thestral alicorn due to him apparently being a unicorn-dragon hybrid, what with the webbed wings and all. He’s a blacksmith, and apparently he developed his fire shaping to help him with his metalworking and forging, amongst other things. He offered to teach me at Twilights request after his early morning start work me up. He lives in the basement apartment, and Twilight hasn’t sound-proofed it yet to keep his working from disturbing us. As for your request, I’ll make sure to tell Twilight right away once I’m done here. Your pal, Spike. With a smile Spike quickly rolled up the letter and sent to celestia before heading over to check up on Twilight. As the response letter arrived on the wisp of green smoke, Celestia seized it eagerly to see what Spike had to say. Reading through it, she smiled happily. “A blacksmith, hmm? Well, they tend towards the muscular and rugged...a good compliment to Twilight’s bookishness...it will be good for her to have a new friend that so drastically contrasts with her...especially with her own reasons for trying to get to know everything about him.” Her eyes suddenly widened with realization, and she grabbed another scroll. Dear Spike, This particular letter is top secret. Twilight is never to know I even sent it. You’re already aware of the proper protocol regarding this. Now answer me this question. Your earlier letter implied that there was a moment that this ‘Wildfire’ and Twilight saw each other completely nude. Based on your knowledge of ponies...would you say they liked what they saw? Eager for answers, Celestia. With a smile, she sent the scroll off to Spike. As Spike entered the hallway that lead to Twilight’s room he could feel another letter coming up as he belched it out. As he began to read his eyes popped open in realization and with a devilish grin pulled out one last piece of paper and began to write. Dearest Celestia I can see what you’re trying to ask me, so I’ll just give it to you straight. The moment those two saw each other naked, I would have to say that they definitely liked what they both saw. Twilight ran off upstairs, blushing up a storm, and as for Wildfire? He just stood there frozen. As he is already red to begin with, it was hard to notice his embarrassment, and the only way I could tell was his inability to properly speak. And now princess I have a question for you? Should we tell anypony else? Your loyal friend, Spike Grinning ear to ear all the while writing Spike quickly sent the letter away at a feverous pace before knocking on Twilights door. “Twilight! You okay in there? I’ll be down the hall if you need anything!” he said and tried his best to control his eagerness. As the letter arrived, Celestia caught the scroll and quickly unrolled it. Quickly checking to make sure that she was, indeed, alone in her private chambers, she let out a happy squeal, tapping her feet excitedly on the floor. Grabbing another scroll, she penned a rather cryptic response. Dear Spike, Leave everything to me. Signed, Celestia. Sending that letter off, she then reached for another scroll and a different sending wavelength, preparing to write a letter to someone else. My Dearest niece...
Lighting the candles“I can't believe you two talked me into this! Is this welcome party thing really necessary?” Wildfire exclaimed with a slightly irritated groan. “Aw, c'mon Wildfire it'll be fun! You do know how to have fun right?” Spike chimed in sarcastically with Twilight nodding in agreement. “Spikes right! Besides, I'm sure that all of my friends would love to meet you,” Twilight said with a slightly worried smile. Wildfire had been hesitant all morning, much to the young dragon and princess’s dismay. Twilight just could not place it. 'Why doesn't he want to go? After we all put in so much work to make this a great party? Pinkie’s going to be upset,' she thought to herself. Wildfire’s expression seemed to become more and more sour as the three left the castle. Wildfire had woken up that morning, not anticipating the events of a welcome party he was told was in the works, but he had forgotten about it due to the chaos that was moving in and all. “I... just don't like parties that much. That's all,” Wildfire insisted, tugging at his sleeves in discomfort. “I don't want to talk about it,” he continued as his irritability began to show even more. “I'm sorry to hear that,” Twilight said softly, placing a hand on Wildfire's shoulder to try and make him feel better. Spike smiled and chuckled. “Sorry to be the bearer of bad timing but...we're here!” Spike proclaimed as the trio turned the corner towards Sugar Cube Corner. As the door flung open a hearty “SURPRISE!!!” was all that was heard. Wildfire awoke with a pounding that rang between his ears. The glare from the shop’s lights began to hurt him just from looking at it. “...what just happened?” he groaned as he looked around the room in a daze. “You had two slices of cake and then your behavior became really...spastic,” Twilight offered as she came over from across the room. With a worried expression on her face, she sat beside him and said, “ From what I've gathered...it seems that dragon-pony hybrids can't handle sugar in mass quantities.” Wildfire groaned as the sound of Twilight's voice made the pounding in his head beat harder. “How much sugar was in that thing anyway?” he demanded, clutching his head to ease the pain. “I put in a whole bag to make sure the cake was super sweet!” Pinkie Pie chimed in gleefully as she fiddled with what seemed like a sea captain’s hat she was wearing. “What happened after the cake?” Wildfire asked Twilight. “My memory is really fuzzy.” “Well, after you had your two slices you were kind of quiet for a little while.” Twilight gestured to a sleeping Spike, who was laying in the corner of the room. “Spike was munching down on the gem cake that Pinkie made just for him. He offered you some, but you weren't really moving that much, which really had us worried. After that, you came up to Applejack and challenged her to an arm-wrestling competition in a rather...odd fashion. You kept switching from what I assume to be dragonic to normal speech when you said - and I quote - 'For I told them not to meddle in the affairs of dragons for you are crunchy and good with ketchup!' That sent everyone into a laughing fit expect Fluttershy for some odd reason.” Twilight’s recitation continued from dares directed to Rainbow Dash to causing Rarity to blush. Twilight fell silent for a moment before Wildfire asked, “Anything else?” She shook her head and gave him a smile. “Nope, that's all that happened.” Twilight turned her back to Wildfire as she tried to hide her blushing face. Wildfire looked towards Pinkie Pie. “Why are you wearing a captain's hat, anyway?” “Oh? This old thing?” Pinkie asked with a giggle. “Well I was in the mood to go sailing after the party. Care to join me?” Twilight gave a light chuckle. “I need to get these two home to rest, they've had a pretty busy day. Maybe next time?” “Sure sure, I'll make sure the ship is ready to sail,” Pinkie Pie replied with a playful grin. Twilight nodded as she picked up the sleeping purple dragon, then stepping over to Wildfire. With a pop of magic they were gone leaving the mares to talk amongst themselves. “By the way Pinkie, why do ya have that hat on?” Applejack asked with a curious tone. “You know there’s not a body a water fer miles?” “I don't need a body of water for this ship. As long as it sails everything's okie dokie loki!” Pinkie Pie giggled with a goofy grin on her face. Author's Note sorry for making you all wait so long.
