Friendzone ain't magicby Marshall_EvergreenChapters"This is getting ridiculous!"Love stinksMission accomplishedMy kind of ApplesThe survival guide"This is getting ridiculous!"Spike had been so hopeful as he had stepped up to Rarity's door four nights ago. Heart pounding in his ears, he had rang the doorbell to declare his arrival. Adjusting his tie he'd waited nervously, rocking backwards and forwards on his feet, until she answered the call. The next few moments had gone in a blur. She'd looked at him with care and almost pity as she politely declined his love. He'd stood there a moment, suffocating on the bitter taste of rejection, trying furiously to swallow the lump in his throat. He'd sniffed and chuckled, not quite able to respond, before nodding and stepping back. "You know I'll always love you as a friend, Spikey-wikey." She'd said softly, but it hadn't helped. In fact it just seemed to make it worse. The sensations that followed were almost too much to bear. First, there had been the sorrow and exquisite remorse. That had been quickly replaced with deep, unbridled rage. How could she have betrayed him? After all he'd done for her! Wasn't he good enough? Then, his anger subsided, pushed aside by guilt. He loved Rarity too much to blame her, surely his misinterpretations of her actions play part in his current misery. How could he have been so stupid to fall for her? But at the same time, he was happy to have met someone like her. In short, it was all a darn mess, with no solution that allowed both parties peace and ease. Unless he could...get over her... All the while, Twilight had been worried about him (as usual). It was all rather pitiful really. She'd always said He and Rarity would never work out, so now that it was over, what should she feel? Proud, that once again her intuitive nature had allowed her to correctly predict the future? Or should she feel sorry for him, but also guilty that she may have coaxed his doubts into being? Or should she do what any good friend would? Be brutally honest. Sympathize for a day or two but expect him to get over it. Of course, she didn't hold anything against Rarity; she had been true to her heart and that was all that was asked. Really it was now all on Spike to get over it. She just hoped he wouldn't get up to anything stupid. Spike however, was way ahead of her. He was currently sitting at a table in the corner of Ponyville's resident pub. Well I say sitting, but I mean slouched over the table, arms splayed out over the surface with empty can, upon empty can of Root beer stacked and scattered sloppily all across the floor and general area. Spike himself, of course, had passed out hours ago, drained from his latest sugar high. But this scenario was already common in the tavern, so the derogatory term of 'sitting' was largely accepted in this instance. Applejack, starred at him intently from behind the bar. It was a shame really. Such a handsome and caring young fellow and yet he chooses to wilt away in a pub. He wasn't even 20 and already giving up on life. She rested her head on her hoof before sighing and turning away. Applejack had recently started working in the bar to score a couple extra Bits for the farm. This meant she'd also been there the past four nights that Spike had come to sit, drink and cry. One night was understandable. Two was for good measure. Three, well that's great for business. But four! Now that's just pathetic. Of course she didn't mean to think of Spike in this way. He was good, kind and generous, always putting others before himself. But it did seem that whenever he got hurt, he took it hard. Maybe it was just the frustration and tension of his duties that added to his emotions. That or hormones... Darn hormones. Spike had gone through some pretty definitive changes these past years anyway. He'd began to mature physically and was, if anything, very intelligent. But he was still innocent; a child at heart. His crush on Rarity had been the one childhood trait he'd kept. Once that went...who was he supposed to be? What was his purpose? Celestia, it was like the CMC all over again... At that moment, Discord and Soarin come through the saloon style double doors. They both scanned the room over, looking as though they'd misplaced something. Applejack merely rolled her eyes and spoke up, seizing their attention. "He's in the corner fellas." She said, jerking her head to indicate the direction. They nodded and started waking over as AJ called after them,"And I don't want any messes!" At this Discord turned, a smug smile etched across his face. "If that were true, my dear Applejack, you would have kicked Spike out days ago." At that, he snapped his fingers, summoning a black board. He chuckled deviously as he added a point to the tally chart that read; Discord, 37 Applejack, 0 He struck a victorious pose as a crowd of disembodied hands sounded his praise and applause, before a crown was placed on his head, boasting his dominance as 'Turn down for what' blasted though hidden speakers. With an audible 'pop', the hands, blackboard and crown were gone. Discord once again had his back turned to the mare, though his faced had turned 180 degrees so he could stick out his tongue at her. In his mind, Applejack and Twilight shared the prize for best pony to tease. Applejack scowled and turned back her work. 'I have a good mind to chuck you and yer posse out. Flippin' intolerable. Don't get what Fluttershy sees in him.' She thought angrily. Meanwhile, the squad had reached Spike, who was gurgling something to himself. Soarin appeared to be distraught by this while Discord rolled his eyes. "I was pretty 'on-point' with Spike being a mess," Discord said with a tone of disgust, as he reached out both his arms to frame the spectacle, "this is getting ridiculous!" Soarin merely nodded, "Bummer, bro." Discord produced a blow horn blasting it into Spike's ear. Spike yelled and nearly leaped off of his chair, catching himself on the back legs of the chair as his arms flailed wildly trying to balance himself. He was too tired of course and simply crashed to the floor. He lay there for a moment, before opening his eyes a little bit. He shut them just as quick, due to what he saw. It was Discord and Soarin leaning over him, looks on concern on their faces. Well, more of a sly grin from Discord, but he was probably deeply troubled by the whole situation. He was like another Pinkie Pie, just with a bigger temper. "Como estas?" Discord cried with glee. Spike, merely growled allowing a cloud of smoke to escape as he snorted his response. "C'mon dude, you've been here for days!" Soarin offered, in tone that was just slightly whiny. Spike looked up with a stern expression cut across his sharp face. Then he started to pick himself up. Slowly. Very. Slowly. It seemed to take enormous effort just to pick himself up, before he came crashing back down on his chair, trying to relax somewhat. They waited patiently before Spike spoke up. "What?" He asked drily. His voice sounded like the grinding of nails echoing from the back of his throat. There were clear bags underneath his eyes. Indeed, even to Spike, his voice sounded alien. Like something you'd expect from someone just waking up...oh wait, that was him. He snorted again, in clear annoyance. "Well..." Soarin trailed off, trying to find a way to break it to Spike without causing more damage. Thankfully, Discord was there to pick up the slack. "You've been cooped up in here far too long. You look dreadful! Have you no self respect? Or did Rarity take that along with all of your pride?" Soarin winced, Applejack dropped the glass she'd been holding and gasped. They all looked at Spike, waiting for a response. Now Soarin wasn't an expert, but he was pretty sure that getting on a dragon's bad side was about as stupid walking through a forest fire. Both of which Discord did on a regular basis. Spike didn't even blink. He chuckled lightly, but still wore the stern expression across his face. "Another Root beer AJ..." He said coolly. "But Spike..." "ANOTHER DRINK! HEAVY ON THE ICE!" Discord and Soarin appeared to have been slapped across the face. AJ didn't take crap from anyone, but she seemed at the utter mercy of Spike. Without another word, she came over with her head low, hat covering her eyes. She threw the mug down on the table, and the spare change. "Take yer dang drink, ya varmint." Applejack mumbled under her breath. But it hurt; it hurt to say it. Everyone heard it of course. Spike's eyes widened momentarily and he felt something throb in his chest. He looked as though he was about to bite back, but something stopped him. Discord and Soarin merely looked from one to the next and then back. Spike starring absent-mindedly into his drink as AJ sniffed and wiped her eyes, trying to mind her own business while stealing glances at Spike. Was she crying? Collateral damage really was the worst. They just didn't know what to say. Discord broke the silence, not wanting to continue walking on tender territory. The Lord of Chaos could toy with people and make their lives miserable, but the scope of his powers seemed to have nothing on Love and heartbreak. It was beautiful, how it could steal you then drop you, allowing your mind to cause the rest of the chaos on its own. A masterpiece of chaos by nature's design. But he stopped himself from saying anything like this; he was confident that it wouldn't be appreciated. He looked directly at Spike, then walked to the bar and came back with three separate pints of drink. "How about a drink?" Spike looked up at the smiling draconequus with doubt. "I already have one." He said. By this time his voice had returned to him. "Ahh, not one like this." Spike raised an eyebrow. "allow me to explain. This my friend is a speciality: Sweet Apple Cider!" Spike scoffed, "Had it." "Alcoholic kind?" Spike paused. Discord smiled smugly, knowing he'd grabbed his attention. Soarin sat back, watching how this would play out. "N...no." Spike grumbled. "Fantastic, drinks all around boys!" "No thanks, my body's a temple." Discord sneered, "Oh puh-leasssee. You know I can't believe that!" "But Twilight..." "Just drink it." Discord growled assertively. Spike gave in and grabbed the mug and began to drink. Discord's smile had returned as Soarin looked on in awe. Spike...was drinking? Discord held Soarin by the shoulder before laughing. "Hold onto your goggles Wonderbolt, this night is gonna get crazy!" When Spike lifted his head up, he had the largest smile in the world, his eyes, wide and shining. He felt as though he'd just drank an entire bottle of luck and was now without a care in the world. He giggled, then turned to look at Discord who laughed again. AJ looked over to the group who were now singing 'Don't worry, be happy' at the top of their lungs. She sighed again. It was gonna be a long night. Author's Note Howdy y'all, just thought I'd explain the tags somewhat so there aren't any misconceptions about this story. It's supposed to be just a random story that provides some slice of life in a humorous way. The romance tag is there due to some scenes involving Applespike. No, I don't think a relationship can be born from one night of heavy drinking, but heck this is MLP! Where Pegasi control the weather, unicorn's have magic and earth pony's have super strength...I'm pretty sure this isn't the strangest thing that universe has seen. Edit: Ahoy lads. Just been scanning through correcting all the immediate spelling mistakes, so hopefully this meets your standards. Please don't down vote this because of the Applespike, if you don't like the pairing that's your own opinion. Being British-American I do have a tendency to switch between spellings of certain words. So for the sake of the readers this has been edited to British-English, for the most part ('colour', instead of color and 'realise', instead of realize, etc.). This would also explain why I have tried and have cravings for root beer. So enjoy the revised layout and such. Marshall out. Love stinksAuthor's Note I apologize if anyone was distressed by the fact that Spike's drinking and isn't even 21. I don't live in the USA so such customs often escape my immediate consideration. GO BRITAIN! Hope you guys enjoy this new chapter which will hopefully shed some light on Spike, Soarin and Discord's friendship as well as why AJ isn't too exhilarated by this whole fiasco. Bon appetit! Love stinks The squad had each taken their places on the red leather stools that lined the bar, happily chatting away with no care in the world. "Hey," Spike called out, swaying a little on his seat, "Ya know what stinks?" He paused for affect before breathing out the answer. "Love." Soarin laughed and slapped him on the back, really with no clue as to what was going on, so long as it meant another drink. "I mean, we're cool like...nachos and cheese dip, ya know? We're amigos, bros, homies, wolves of the pack, yahdah-yahdah-yahdah. But, it's just how we take our friendship for granted." At this point Spike was preaching it, with tears streaming down his face, "We assume people are always gonna be there for us but when we turn around; BAMF! No one." There was silence for a bit as Spike sat back down only to stare deeply into his drink. "I dunno man, maybe it's not me. Maybe, it's...the rest of Equestria, ya know?" He then proceeded to drain the drink in one. Discord hid his face in his paw, mentally kicking himself for giving the cider to Spike. Discord himself didn't drink. One (and the most important of reasons) is that he feared what Fluttershy would do to him if she knew, and two...well, let's say that giving the Lord of Chaos liquid chaos was a bad mixture and was sure to explode in a cloud of cotton candy. all that aside, he didn't need cider to have fun. However, what he was currently enduring wasn't about fun at all. It was about Spike. If he wasn't going to talk about the problem openly well...that's what the alcohol is for. Having to endure the crap that inevitably accompanied it was the worst part. "So I take it you got friendzoned?" Soarin said in a mellow tone, still none the wiser. Spike belched and roared with bitter laughter. "Not friendzoned dude, utterly destroyed. Man, she ripped my heart out in front of me and gave it to her stinking coltfriend. But hey, I don't care. Her loss..." He didn't sound convincing and Discord was more than confident he was completely oblivious to what he was actually saying. Soarin coughed and looked up in awe at Spike, "Woah! She ripped out your heart? How are you alive? Does it bleed? How do you feel?" Discord was aware that out of the three males present, Soarin had the greatest tendency to ask 'stupid' questions. And with a bit of drink down the gullet, he was the perfect weapon in getting Spike to talk. Not that either of them knew what was going on, they were far too drunk. Call it manipulative if you like, but Discord preferred to think of it more as friendly dynamics. "I'm not alive bro, I'm just not dying." "Deep." They both stopped to drink some more before Soarin started up again. "Hey, can I tell you something...like, from the pit of my heart?" Soarin asked dramatically. "Shoot." "I don't take you for granted." He took a moment to stare Spike in the eyes, trying to emphasis the gravity of his words, "You and Discord are my bros. For Luna's sake you guys hooked me up with Rainbow! So, even if Rarity didn't work for you, you're still a great friend and should take pride in that." Spike looked him in the eye again. "For real?" "Cross my heart and hope to fl...hey, what do I say if I can already fly. Aww, screw it. You know what I'm sayin'!" "Yeah," Spike just nodded his head dumbly, before tearing up, "I love you too man!" At which point he lunged forward and embraced the pony, crying into his shoulder as Soarin followed suit, trying to comfort him. Discord rolled his eyes. It seemed incredible that all it took to make Soarin say something profound was through intoxicating him. Then he shrugged it off; who was he to question what made sense? Being Discord and all. Now Applejack had seen her fair share of lightweights in the past, but none of them came close to Spike. He had just spent the last hour crying, ranting and laughing. Mood-swingy Dragons and alcohol apparently didn't go together. She chuckled lightly to herself. Though getting him to talk by getting him drunk hadn't been the most honest way to handle the situation, she still thought it was rather cute...well, in hindsight at least. Cute... Applejack started to feel the familiar emptiness surround her as she studied her feelings. Applejack had always thought of Spike as being a reliable friend, and had been greatly impressed and touched by his eagerness and willingness to serve. Though lately she'd started to feel something more. After thinking about an incident years back, where Spike had saved her from a giant Timberwolf, she had started to realise just how noble and brave he was. She'd started by denying any such emotions, but eventually she gave in, feeling only a desire to embrace these new found emotions. She held onto it even though it caused her heartache. This was of course due to the Dragon's feelings for Rarity and no matter how AJ looked at it, she would never match her competition. She could out run almost anypony and she had outstanding strength, but she wasn't...well, Rarity. No, that was a stupid thing to say! She loved her life. She loved who she was. But at the same time, what does that matter if no one else does? She was frustrated and hurt, but more angry at herself for allowing herself to get into this state of mind. Applejack was inclined to view love as a hindrance more than anything. After all, Spike would never love her, so why bother... But here he was... And here he had been for the past four days. So why didn't she at least try? Was she scared? Scared that if he rejected her, she'd turn out exactly as he had now. Besides, he was still too hung up on Rarity to notice her. 'Even when he's been rejected he still loves her...' He was hurting. That was why he was here, trying to drink it away or cry it out, anything to get rid of the heartache. But it was no good. He still loved her and it turned him bitter. Applejack had had to put up with it for four nights and she feared it would continue; the very sight of him hurt her. She was wrenched away from her thoughts as Discord poked her on the shoulder. "Why the long face?" He purred softly, drawling out each word in a soft, conspiratorial whisper. "That ain't none of yer business." Applejack huffed and turned away. She wasn't going to lie, but there was no way she'd tell him the problem. Discord merely grinned, amused by Applejack's stubbornness. "Oh come now, AJ. Tell Dissy your troubles." "No!" Applejack said, annoyed by Discord's persistence. She really wanted to say. She needed to tell someone, just not Discord. Spike laughed and Applejack stole a glance at him. Discord noticed this. He noticed the deep longing in Applejack's eyes. He followed her eyes before...No, really? Oh this was too precious! Applejack and Spike. He then grinned smugly and turned back to Applejack who was now looking down solemnly as she dried off another glass. 'Time for some fun!' He thought with a devilish grin. "Soo Applejack..." He drawled and smiled again when he got a rather bemused scowl from Applejack in response. "What?" Applejack replied through gritted teeth. "How have the past four nights been, couldn't have been easy trying deal with this lump of lard moping about." He of course was referring to Spike, who wasn't exactly as lumpy and lardy as he had been a few years ago. Applejack drew out an airy sigh, before replying. "Dandy, just dandy." Though her tone and composure were cool and relaxed, Discord knew he was getting close. "Really? No long speeches about Rarity and how beautiful she is? Or, long nights of crying? Any fires?" "Nope." "Well then, what about you? I noticed Spike hasn't exactly been considerate of others while he's been throwing his tantrum." Applejack gulped loudly, notifying Discord he'd hit a nerve. Once again, he smiled smugly. "Dandy, just dandy." Discord frowned. He was tired of the game, time to be blunt. "Do you take me for an idiot, Applejack?" He asked, frustrated, "You don't live through ten centuries without picking up a couple hints." "Besides," He added nonchalantly, "you're a terrible liar." Applejack hid her eyes under the brim of her hat, trying to hide her embarrassment. Knowing he'd finally won, he leaned in close to the quivering mare. "I'm all ears." He said, before magically enlarging his ears, just to prove his point. Mission accomplishedAuthor's Note New chapter! Same as before, just enjoy and feel free to comment (I dearly love feedback). Not going to attempt saying anything french in this one or else Vlaarith will have my skin once I get it wrong. But hey, we learn from mistakes, am I right? Anyway, hope you all like it! Mission accomplished An hour after entering the bar, both Soarin and Discord have managed to coax Spike into drinking a bit and talking about his problems. Soarin and Spike continue to talk while Discord listens intently to Applejack, as she 'spills the beans' on her current mood. Though the others thought him drunk, the few cups of Cider had began to wear off on Spike (Dragons are weird that way). Maybe that's why he was still drinking more, he didn't want to have the liberty of free thought; he didn't need reality dragging him around just then. Okay, so he wasn't exactly sober, but he had enough wit about him to allow him some degree of intelligent thought. Only problem was: He hated it. It was an occupational hazard really. Having lived with Twilight his entire life, he had picked up a couple tricks on logical thinking. Then again, who wouldn't after being stuck with her for days and days on end. Frankly, it was surprising he hadn't yet adopted all of her mannerisms. In any case, either way he looked at this whole situation, he saw there was no one to really blame and it angered him. How could so much emotion come from nothing? His feelings had been real hadn't they? Maybe the numerous dreams and fantasies had been exactly that; dreams and fantasies. Now they seemed more like ghosts - threatening to haunt him forever. Maybe it wasn't meant to be. But all the time spent on Rarity, all for nothing? No. That just didn't make sense. He must have learned something, something must have been gained. In the end, he supposed, Rarity had given him a drive and a purpose. She'd made every moment special. So even if they weren't together now, that didn't make those memories any less real. Spike smiled. After four days of mulling it over, he was starting to get somewhere. But there was still pain. He needed another drink. "Another drink please, Applejack." He said in his usual perky tone of voice. Applejack turned to him with moist eyes, before composing herself and smiling. "Good ta have ya back with the living, sugarcube." She said softly, while passing him another drink, classically sliding it across the bar top for it to come directly into Spike's waiting claw. Spike kept his eyes locked with hers for a moment, before wrenching himself away to stare into his drink. Had she been crying? What was she talking to Discord about? How had he not noticed? How...oh... Spike's pupils shrank as a thought crossed his mind. He'd been here for four days. All that time he'd been a mess, with no thought or consideration for anyone else. Applejack had been there the entire time. She'd tried to help, tried to get him out of his misery but he'd merely pushed her away. He'd been so cold-blooded, and just a few hours ago, he'd yelled at her, demanding another can of Root beer. She'd hid her eyes under her hat and seemed to sob, before calling him...what was it, 'Varmint?' It all felt like years ago already. Celestia, emotion sucks... He buried his face in his claws as the torment was being heaped up on his brain. She was his friend. He'd treated her like dirt, bossing her around. Why hadn't she resisted? Why hadn't she kicked him out, or slapped him, anything! Of course, it was because she was Applejack. She'd endured so much. She was so strong, and would never let the pain show. He was her friend, she'd never hurt him. Some friend he'd been. Oh Celestia, what had he done? Tears began to well up in his eyes as he cursed himself. He'd taken everything out on her and it made him feel like an absolute wretch just thinking about it. Good. He deserved that much. He looked up and turned to see Soarin looking at him, with a look of concern, maybe pity. Just another bad reminder. His friends Soarin and Discord were trying to help him the best way they knew how. They really were the best friends any Drake could ask for. Always fun and optimistic, but also humble; ready to help a friend in need or admit their flaws. Ready to pull together to make each other stronger. It was so bittersweet. It made his heart swell with gratitude for his friends. He was so lucky. How could he have been so blind and selfish? They were great, always looking for the best in people and it made him feel like crap. So he'd lost out on Rarity, that didn't make him unloved. "Hey Spike, how are you doing?" Soarin asked. He'd been watching Spike intently for a while, studying any visible signs. Soarin himself had known Spike ever since the Equestria games, where they'd both met in a cafeteria before quickly becoming best friends. They had a couple similarities but were also very different from each other, and that's what kept their friendship fun. Plus, he knew Rainbow Dash; he'd needed an asset in his quest for her affections. And ever since Discord got in the mix, the three have been inseparable. After having learned to expand his circle of friends, Discord had found favour with a more mature and grown-up Spike. Though Spike himself couldn't use chaos based magic, he still had some insight into the various types of the Arcane arts. Having been an assistant to Princess Twilight Sparkle, he'd picked up a great understanding of various types of magic, though he himself could only breath fire. He understood Discord, being a bit of an 'outsider' himself. Being a dragon in Ponyville wasn't all rainbows and sunshine! So they were a trio. Life was a great adventure and when the Mane six were out, Spike and the crew would get together for some fun and mayhem. Only minor pranks really, but it still kept Discord happy. Spike turned, sniffed and rubbed his eyes of the tears. His eyes were slightly red in the corners and his cheeks stained from the rivulets of tears. He nodded. "Okay. No, I'm better than okay. I'm great!" He laughed, coughing a bit on the lump in his throat. He reached out and embraced Soarin. "I'm so lucky to have you guys and I'm sorry for being such a dweeb." Soarin was caught off guard by the young drake hugging him. Spike was at least a foot taller than Soarin and the sight looked like an over grown child cuddling a rather petrified Pegasus plush doll. He smiled softly before reaching around to pat the Spike on the back. "It's cool bro. We're amigos right?" Spike pulled back laughing while drawing back more tears. "Right!" Discord and Applejack both looked at this with smiles plastered to their faces. Discord stood up, summoning a dinner jacket, white gloves, a cane and a top hat. He slipped on the gloves and jacket before turning to Applejack. Cane in one hand, he bowed, dipping his body in her direction whilst sweeping his other arm low across his chest, top hat in hand. "Thank you dear, we've had a most pleasant stay. But alas, our mission is complete, thus it is time we take our leave." Discord said in all his gentlemen swagger. He stood back up and strutted toward the saloon doors, before stopping and turning back to Soarin. "Come now Soarin, best get you back to the miss'." Soarin teetered a bit before landing lazily on the floor. "coming." He gargled Discord struck his cane on the floor, getting everypony's attention. "Once again, I thank you for the fantastic service Applejack! The drinks were splendid and the conversation most engaging. I trust you to get home in one piece Spike?" Spike nodded mutely. "Splendid. Then let us take our leave, post-haste, to Cloudsdale!" Soarin took two steps forward and passed out on the floor. Discord slapped his face. "Great Scott, WHY SOARIN?" Discord yelled, annoyed. He picked up Soarin with his magic and with a *BAMF*...they were gone, leaving a dark purple cloud to dissipate in patches, along with the dank and musky smell of Brimstone. Applejack blinked in utter confusion. No matter how hard she tried, she could never understand Discord and his...erm, dramatic flare. "Don't try. Trust me, it only hurts." Applejack blinked again and turned to stare at Spike who was looking in her direction, drinking another pint of cider. "How..." She began but Spike held up a hand. "I recognize the look. After a while, you get used to it; Discord and all his finesse." Her eyes flicked from him, to the dissipating cloud, then back to spike before shaking her head and chuckling. Spike gave an amused huff before returning to his drink. He knew perfectly well that he had to talk to AJ, to apologise. Just, how do you do it? 'Hey Applejack, I'm sorry for being a giant jerk this entire time and putting you through hell!' Yeah, like that's gonna work. It sounded pathetic. He chuckled. How fitting; that was exactly how he felt. My kind of ApplesNeither of them spoke for what seemed, the longest time. The silence was ironically deafening; it ate at Spike's conscious, kicking and beating him, yelling at him to say something to her. ANYTHING! Spike was sitting on a stool at one end of the bar while Applejack was polishing the decanter on the other end of the bar. They both stole glances at each other every so often, just to maybe see what the other was thinking. Applejack sighed softly and turned her head away in remorse. What was she supposed to say? Tell him she liked him? No, that would just mess Spike up even more. Plus, Applejack didn't want to be some kind of rebound. Maybe a buffer? At least until things get less awkward between Spike and Rarity... Applejack and Discord had been discussing this earlier while Spike was with Soarin. Discord had been confident that Spike would get over Rarity eventually and for that, Applejack was happy; at least old Spike would be back. But that didn't fix Applejack's real problem. She was lonely. Sure she had friends and family, but it wasn't the same. All her friends had something she didn't and she needed it bad. But she couldn't allow herself to get in the way of Spike's happiness. When she'd told that to Discord he'd merely sighed and nodded solemnly in what looked like defeat. There was nothing he could do for her; he knew that and so did she. But it had still been nice to talk it out, to know that Discord had caring side. In all honesty she was starting to warm up to him. Unbeknownst to the farm mare, Spike had been starring at her, lost in thought. She was so quiet...silently suffering? How like Applejack to never complain. He looked over her again as the candle light highlighted her mane and tail. She was beautiful. How had he never noticed? She had the cutest freckles on her cheeks. AND HER EYES! They were so much like his, but they held such depth, so captivating and... Aww, cuss. Applejack had turned and had found Spike looking at her face. Not just at her, but into her. His eyes were sharp and piercing, cutting straight through her. She shivered under his gaze and felt the heat creep up into her cheeks as she locked eyes with him. They continued to stare. Spike could feel the sweat forming on his brow and the heat radiating from his cheeks. AJ was blushing too, redder than apples, but it just added to her cuteness and deepened the shinning emerald of her eyes. Spike was the one to break the moment, looking down into his drink. Applejack cocked her head to one side in curiosity. "What's wrong sad eyes?" Spike looked up and smiled. "I'm not sad. It's called brooding. More manly see?" He joked. Applejack giggled and once again Spike was flung into a trance. Rarity, Discord, depression, everything just went out the window and was replaced by that glorious laugh. Had he been so caught up with Rarity to have never noticed it before? once again looking down, he mumbled, "I'm sorry." "What was that Sugarcube?" Applejack inquired. Spike lifted his head to look sternly at her. "I'm sorry" He said again, rather stoically. Applejack was taken aback by this but soon recovered. "Sorry fer what Spike?" "Everything." He paused before continuing allowing himself to think out carefully what he'd say next. "These past four days I've been a jerk, to you and all my friends, but especially you. I thought...because I'd lost Rarity there was nothing left and that I didn't have to give two curses for anyone...I, I don't know what I was thinking." He said, allowing his voice to fade by the end. Applejack put down the decanter, jumped the bar and walked over to Spike. "Hey," she said, lifting up his chin to speak directly into him, "I took it because I knew you needed to vent. I knew that you'd come around Sugarcube." "Don't you get it?" Spike cried, tears starting to form in the corners of his eyes, "This isn't about me, this is about you! Applejack you're so caring that you don't care about yourself! I'm a worthless piece of crap, but you are so beautiful and let yourself be treated like dirt. Don't say anything yet, just let me finish...You...you make me want to become better. A better person, a better friend and a better man. But, these past four days, I wasn't able to see it. I didn't realize the damage that I've caused and I wish I could just change it but I can't! I wish sorry was enough but it just isn't! Applejack I..." He was suddenly cut off as he felt something gently caress his lips. He looked to see it was Applejack. She was standing on her hind legs, holding his face to hers with her front hooves. Spike was lost and allowed himself to sink into the kiss as he wrapped his arms around her, holding her close to him. It was paradise. ...And it tasted unsurprisingly of apples. Applejack broke the kiss but still held his face, pressing her forehead against his, gazing into his eyes. Applejack too was now crying, both from the pain of Spike's words but also the boundless joy she felt well up within her. "Spike, Sugercube, never before has anyone said something like that to me. You are the most noble and humble creature I have ever met...and loved." Spike was at a complete loss for words but what Applejack had just said left him paralyzed to the spot. Loved? LOVED! "AJ..." She hushed him, pressing her hoof against his lips as she smiled lovingly at him. "You ain't the only one to have suffered from unrequited love Spike. I couldn't get in the way of your happiness. I lied to myself, telling myself I'd be as happy as a pig in mud so long as you were happy...but like I said...That was me lyin'. And it hurt Spike, Celestia it hurt so bad! But it's okay. I forgive you" All this time, she'd kept silent...for him. Spike couldn't take it anymore, he needed to know. "How long?" Applejack giggled. "'Bout a year or two now. We've all seen how hard you work fer Rarity Spike. Have ta say, yer one tenacious little fella aren't ya?" Spike smiled. "I'm not so little anymore AJ. I was always going to just be Spikey-wikey, that's all I was to Rarity. I'm...I'm glad I'm not anymore." It was strange really. Within a matter of moments all his affections for Rarity had been flipped. He wasn't blind anymore. He wasn't yet sure what he felt for Applejack, it wouldn't be a lie to say he had coveted some feelings for her in the past, but this was different. He felt so much love and bliss; nothing he'd ever felt with Rarity. It was one thing to love someone, but it was something far greater to have those same feelings returned. Spike never before knew he could feel so much. All this time they embraced one another, letting tears of guilt be replaced by tears of abounding happiness. After a while they pulled apart. "Well it's gettin' late. I best be gettin' home." Applejack sighed contently. "Yeah," Spike agreed in the same airy tone. Applejack started to walk out and Spike whirled around, forcing himself back into focus. "Applejack!" He called. She turned back to him and smiled. "Yes?" 'Oh crap, oh shoot...say something idiot! No stop gawking and just ask her...I know she's hot... Celestia, I said STOP!' "Erm...are you..." "I'm off tomorrow, Sugarcube. You can come 'round the farm an' pick me up around six." "Oh, right. Thanks...erm, night AJ." "G'night Spike." She then left. Spike was left standing there for a moment. Then the toothiest, smuggest and most giddy smile crossed his face. He leaped in the air and cheered, fist pumping. He landed and sighed out in content. Things were certainly looking up. He walked out the door and turned out the light, laughing to himself. "RIP Friendzone." The End Author's Note Well there you have it folks. The ending of Marshall_Evergreen's glorious premier story. Hope you all enjoyed it just as much as I enjoyed writing it. Don't forget to 'like' it! yay Applespike! The survival guideIt's a lovely autumn evening (fall, for all my 'murican homies). The sunset over the horizon is simply stunning, as its reflected light pools out and radiates across the sea. Feeling lucky to be alive, I sit at my typewriter and begin working my magic. Just as I'm about to press the first button, Spike barges in, looking rather frazzled. "What the hay Marshall!" He roars indignantly, "You wrote a prequel?!" Smiling, coolly I reply, "I thought it'd be fun." As if that was all that needed to be said. Spike wasn't having any of it. "Fun? Wasn't the first story good enough for you? Haven't you torn up my character enough? How miserable do I have to be before you're happy!?" "Hey," I begin, noticing his contradiction, "I hooked you up with AJ." "Touche." "Besides," I continue, "it isn't that bad. Just a bit of humor and quirk. No harm done boyo." Spike had turned his glaring eyes from me and directed them to focus on the sunset outside. I noticed beyond the anger and frustration, a hint of fear. Then I noticed the other signs. He was sweating and nervously pulling at his hands, trying to get something out of his mind. "Spike. What's bothering you?" "What, me? Nothing!" Spike said defiantly. "I just wrote a flippin' paragaph on how nervous you are, so what's wrong!" "Well..." Spike begins in uncertainty, "prequels are known for stinking with a bad reputation. I'm just worried that it might ruin this story." Then his pupils shrank and his knees buckled in an expression that could only be read as horror. "Sweet mother of Celestia, you didn't include Jar Jar Binks did you? DID YOU!" "Only Discord, my friend." "That really doesn't make it any better..." Well ladies and gentlemen, in case you haven't sussed it out already, there is prequel to this story! Though I recommend you read this story first, I hope you enjoy it all the same. Thus, may I present to you, the second story in the holy galactic library of Marshall_Evergreen. Friendzoned: A declassified survival guide Enjoy! Marshall out.
"This is getting ridiculous!"Spike had been so hopeful as he had stepped up to Rarity's door four nights ago. Heart pounding in his ears, he had rang the doorbell to declare his arrival. Adjusting his tie he'd waited nervously, rocking backwards and forwards on his feet, until she answered the call. The next few moments had gone in a blur. She'd looked at him with care and almost pity as she politely declined his love. He'd stood there a moment, suffocating on the bitter taste of rejection, trying furiously to swallow the lump in his throat. He'd sniffed and chuckled, not quite able to respond, before nodding and stepping back. "You know I'll always love you as a friend, Spikey-wikey." She'd said softly, but it hadn't helped. In fact it just seemed to make it worse. The sensations that followed were almost too much to bear. First, there had been the sorrow and exquisite remorse. That had been quickly replaced with deep, unbridled rage. How could she have betrayed him? After all he'd done for her! Wasn't he good enough? Then, his anger subsided, pushed aside by guilt. He loved Rarity too much to blame her, surely his misinterpretations of her actions play part in his current misery. How could he have been so stupid to fall for her? But at the same time, he was happy to have met someone like her. In short, it was all a darn mess, with no solution that allowed both parties peace and ease. Unless he could...get over her... All the while, Twilight had been worried about him (as usual). It was all rather pitiful really. She'd always said He and Rarity would never work out, so now that it was over, what should she feel? Proud, that once again her intuitive nature had allowed her to correctly predict the future? Or should she feel sorry for him, but also guilty that she may have coaxed his doubts into being? Or should she do what any good friend would? Be brutally honest. Sympathize for a day or two but expect him to get over it. Of course, she didn't hold anything against Rarity; she had been true to her heart and that was all that was asked. Really it was now all on Spike to get over it. She just hoped he wouldn't get up to anything stupid. Spike however, was way ahead of her. He was currently sitting at a table in the corner of Ponyville's resident pub. Well I say sitting, but I mean slouched over the table, arms splayed out over the surface with empty can, upon empty can of Root beer stacked and scattered sloppily all across the floor and general area. Spike himself, of course, had passed out hours ago, drained from his latest sugar high. But this scenario was already common in the tavern, so the derogatory term of 'sitting' was largely accepted in this instance. Applejack, starred at him intently from behind the bar. It was a shame really. Such a handsome and caring young fellow and yet he chooses to wilt away in a pub. He wasn't even 20 and already giving up on life. She rested her head on her hoof before sighing and turning away. Applejack had recently started working in the bar to score a couple extra Bits for the farm. This meant she'd also been there the past four nights that Spike had come to sit, drink and cry. One night was understandable. Two was for good measure. Three, well that's great for business. But four! Now that's just pathetic. Of course she didn't mean to think of Spike in this way. He was good, kind and generous, always putting others before himself. But it did seem that whenever he got hurt, he took it hard. Maybe it was just the frustration and tension of his duties that added to his emotions. That or hormones... Darn hormones. Spike had gone through some pretty definitive changes these past years anyway. He'd began to mature physically and was, if anything, very intelligent. But he was still innocent; a child at heart. His crush on Rarity had been the one childhood trait he'd kept. Once that went...who was he supposed to be? What was his purpose? Celestia, it was like the CMC all over again... At that moment, Discord and Soarin come through the saloon style double doors. They both scanned the room over, looking as though they'd misplaced something. Applejack merely rolled her eyes and spoke up, seizing their attention. "He's in the corner fellas." She said, jerking her head to indicate the direction. They nodded and started waking over as AJ called after them,"And I don't want any messes!" At this Discord turned, a smug smile etched across his face. "If that were true, my dear Applejack, you would have kicked Spike out days ago." At that, he snapped his fingers, summoning a black board. He chuckled deviously as he added a point to the tally chart that read; Discord, 37 Applejack, 0 He struck a victorious pose as a crowd of disembodied hands sounded his praise and applause, before a crown was placed on his head, boasting his dominance as 'Turn down for what' blasted though hidden speakers. With an audible 'pop', the hands, blackboard and crown were gone. Discord once again had his back turned to the mare, though his faced had turned 180 degrees so he could stick out his tongue at her. In his mind, Applejack and Twilight shared the prize for best pony to tease. Applejack scowled and turned back her work. 'I have a good mind to chuck you and yer posse out. Flippin' intolerable. Don't get what Fluttershy sees in him.' She thought angrily. Meanwhile, the squad had reached Spike, who was gurgling something to himself. Soarin appeared to be distraught by this while Discord rolled his eyes. "I was pretty 'on-point' with Spike being a mess," Discord said with a tone of disgust, as he reached out both his arms to frame the spectacle, "this is getting ridiculous!" Soarin merely nodded, "Bummer, bro." Discord produced a blow horn blasting it into Spike's ear. Spike yelled and nearly leaped off of his chair, catching himself on the back legs of the chair as his arms flailed wildly trying to balance himself. He was too tired of course and simply crashed to the floor. He lay there for a moment, before opening his eyes a little bit. He shut them just as quick, due to what he saw. It was Discord and Soarin leaning over him, looks on concern on their faces. Well, more of a sly grin from Discord, but he was probably deeply troubled by the whole situation. He was like another Pinkie Pie, just with a bigger temper. "Como estas?" Discord cried with glee. Spike, merely growled allowing a cloud of smoke to escape as he snorted his response. "C'mon dude, you've been here for days!" Soarin offered, in tone that was just slightly whiny. Spike looked up with a stern expression cut across his sharp face. Then he started to pick himself up. Slowly. Very. Slowly. It seemed to take enormous effort just to pick himself up, before he came crashing back down on his chair, trying to relax somewhat. They waited patiently before Spike spoke up. "What?" He asked drily. His voice sounded like the grinding of nails echoing from the back of his throat. There were clear bags underneath his eyes. Indeed, even to Spike, his voice sounded alien. Like something you'd expect from someone just waking up...oh wait, that was him. He snorted again, in clear annoyance. "Well..." Soarin trailed off, trying to find a way to break it to Spike without causing more damage. Thankfully, Discord was there to pick up the slack. "You've been cooped up in here far too long. You look dreadful! Have you no self respect? Or did Rarity take that along with all of your pride?" Soarin winced, Applejack dropped the glass she'd been holding and gasped. They all looked at Spike, waiting for a response. Now Soarin wasn't an expert, but he was pretty sure that getting on a dragon's bad side was about as stupid walking through a forest fire. Both of which Discord did on a regular basis. Spike didn't even blink. He chuckled lightly, but still wore the stern expression across his face. "Another Root beer AJ..." He said coolly. "But Spike..." "ANOTHER DRINK! HEAVY ON THE ICE!" Discord and Soarin appeared to have been slapped across the face. AJ didn't take crap from anyone, but she seemed at the utter mercy of Spike. Without another word, she came over with her head low, hat covering her eyes. She threw the mug down on the table, and the spare change. "Take yer dang drink, ya varmint." Applejack mumbled under her breath. But it hurt; it hurt to say it. Everyone heard it of course. Spike's eyes widened momentarily and he felt something throb in his chest. He looked as though he was about to bite back, but something stopped him. Discord and Soarin merely looked from one to the next and then back. Spike starring absent-mindedly into his drink as AJ sniffed and wiped her eyes, trying to mind her own business while stealing glances at Spike. Was she crying? Collateral damage really was the worst. They just didn't know what to say. Discord broke the silence, not wanting to continue walking on tender territory. The Lord of Chaos could toy with people and make their lives miserable, but the scope of his powers seemed to have nothing on Love and heartbreak. It was beautiful, how it could steal you then drop you, allowing your mind to cause the rest of the chaos on its own. A masterpiece of chaos by nature's design. But he stopped himself from saying anything like this; he was confident that it wouldn't be appreciated. He looked directly at Spike, then walked to the bar and came back with three separate pints of drink. "How about a drink?" Spike looked up at the smiling draconequus with doubt. "I already have one." He said. By this time his voice had returned to him. "Ahh, not one like this." Spike raised an eyebrow. "allow me to explain. This my friend is a speciality: Sweet Apple Cider!" Spike scoffed, "Had it." "Alcoholic kind?" Spike paused. Discord smiled smugly, knowing he'd grabbed his attention. Soarin sat back, watching how this would play out. "N...no." Spike grumbled. "Fantastic, drinks all around boys!" "No thanks, my body's a temple." Discord sneered, "Oh puh-leasssee. You know I can't believe that!" "But Twilight..." "Just drink it." Discord growled assertively. Spike gave in and grabbed the mug and began to drink. Discord's smile had returned as Soarin looked on in awe. Spike...was drinking? Discord held Soarin by the shoulder before laughing. "Hold onto your goggles Wonderbolt, this night is gonna get crazy!" When Spike lifted his head up, he had the largest smile in the world, his eyes, wide and shining. He felt as though he'd just drank an entire bottle of luck and was now without a care in the world. He giggled, then turned to look at Discord who laughed again. AJ looked over to the group who were now singing 'Don't worry, be happy' at the top of their lungs. She sighed again. It was gonna be a long night. Author's Note Howdy y'all, just thought I'd explain the tags somewhat so there aren't any misconceptions about this story. It's supposed to be just a random story that provides some slice of life in a humorous way. The romance tag is there due to some scenes involving Applespike. No, I don't think a relationship can be born from one night of heavy drinking, but heck this is MLP! Where Pegasi control the weather, unicorn's have magic and earth pony's have super strength...I'm pretty sure this isn't the strangest thing that universe has seen. Edit: Ahoy lads. Just been scanning through correcting all the immediate spelling mistakes, so hopefully this meets your standards. Please don't down vote this because of the Applespike, if you don't like the pairing that's your own opinion. Being British-American I do have a tendency to switch between spellings of certain words. So for the sake of the readers this has been edited to British-English, for the most part ('colour', instead of color and 'realise', instead of realize, etc.). This would also explain why I have tried and have cravings for root beer. So enjoy the revised layout and such. Marshall out.
Love stinksAuthor's Note I apologize if anyone was distressed by the fact that Spike's drinking and isn't even 21. I don't live in the USA so such customs often escape my immediate consideration. GO BRITAIN! Hope you guys enjoy this new chapter which will hopefully shed some light on Spike, Soarin and Discord's friendship as well as why AJ isn't too exhilarated by this whole fiasco. Bon appetit! Love stinks The squad had each taken their places on the red leather stools that lined the bar, happily chatting away with no care in the world. "Hey," Spike called out, swaying a little on his seat, "Ya know what stinks?" He paused for affect before breathing out the answer. "Love." Soarin laughed and slapped him on the back, really with no clue as to what was going on, so long as it meant another drink. "I mean, we're cool like...nachos and cheese dip, ya know? We're amigos, bros, homies, wolves of the pack, yahdah-yahdah-yahdah. But, it's just how we take our friendship for granted." At this point Spike was preaching it, with tears streaming down his face, "We assume people are always gonna be there for us but when we turn around; BAMF! No one." There was silence for a bit as Spike sat back down only to stare deeply into his drink. "I dunno man, maybe it's not me. Maybe, it's...the rest of Equestria, ya know?" He then proceeded to drain the drink in one. Discord hid his face in his paw, mentally kicking himself for giving the cider to Spike. Discord himself didn't drink. One (and the most important of reasons) is that he feared what Fluttershy would do to him if she knew, and two...well, let's say that giving the Lord of Chaos liquid chaos was a bad mixture and was sure to explode in a cloud of cotton candy. all that aside, he didn't need cider to have fun. However, what he was currently enduring wasn't about fun at all. It was about Spike. If he wasn't going to talk about the problem openly well...that's what the alcohol is for. Having to endure the crap that inevitably accompanied it was the worst part. "So I take it you got friendzoned?" Soarin said in a mellow tone, still none the wiser. Spike belched and roared with bitter laughter. "Not friendzoned dude, utterly destroyed. Man, she ripped my heart out in front of me and gave it to her stinking coltfriend. But hey, I don't care. Her loss..." He didn't sound convincing and Discord was more than confident he was completely oblivious to what he was actually saying. Soarin coughed and looked up in awe at Spike, "Woah! She ripped out your heart? How are you alive? Does it bleed? How do you feel?" Discord was aware that out of the three males present, Soarin had the greatest tendency to ask 'stupid' questions. And with a bit of drink down the gullet, he was the perfect weapon in getting Spike to talk. Not that either of them knew what was going on, they were far too drunk. Call it manipulative if you like, but Discord preferred to think of it more as friendly dynamics. "I'm not alive bro, I'm just not dying." "Deep." They both stopped to drink some more before Soarin started up again. "Hey, can I tell you something...like, from the pit of my heart?" Soarin asked dramatically. "Shoot." "I don't take you for granted." He took a moment to stare Spike in the eyes, trying to emphasis the gravity of his words, "You and Discord are my bros. For Luna's sake you guys hooked me up with Rainbow! So, even if Rarity didn't work for you, you're still a great friend and should take pride in that." Spike looked him in the eye again. "For real?" "Cross my heart and hope to fl...hey, what do I say if I can already fly. Aww, screw it. You know what I'm sayin'!" "Yeah," Spike just nodded his head dumbly, before tearing up, "I love you too man!" At which point he lunged forward and embraced the pony, crying into his shoulder as Soarin followed suit, trying to comfort him. Discord rolled his eyes. It seemed incredible that all it took to make Soarin say something profound was through intoxicating him. Then he shrugged it off; who was he to question what made sense? Being Discord and all. Now Applejack had seen her fair share of lightweights in the past, but none of them came close to Spike. He had just spent the last hour crying, ranting and laughing. Mood-swingy Dragons and alcohol apparently didn't go together. She chuckled lightly to herself. Though getting him to talk by getting him drunk hadn't been the most honest way to handle the situation, she still thought it was rather cute...well, in hindsight at least. Cute... Applejack started to feel the familiar emptiness surround her as she studied her feelings. Applejack had always thought of Spike as being a reliable friend, and had been greatly impressed and touched by his eagerness and willingness to serve. Though lately she'd started to feel something more. After thinking about an incident years back, where Spike had saved her from a giant Timberwolf, she had started to realise just how noble and brave he was. She'd started by denying any such emotions, but eventually she gave in, feeling only a desire to embrace these new found emotions. She held onto it even though it caused her heartache. This was of course due to the Dragon's feelings for Rarity and no matter how AJ looked at it, she would never match her competition. She could out run almost anypony and she had outstanding strength, but she wasn't...well, Rarity. No, that was a stupid thing to say! She loved her life. She loved who she was. But at the same time, what does that matter if no one else does? She was frustrated and hurt, but more angry at herself for allowing herself to get into this state of mind. Applejack was inclined to view love as a hindrance more than anything. After all, Spike would never love her, so why bother... But here he was... And here he had been for the past four days. So why didn't she at least try? Was she scared? Scared that if he rejected her, she'd turn out exactly as he had now. Besides, he was still too hung up on Rarity to notice her. 'Even when he's been rejected he still loves her...' He was hurting. That was why he was here, trying to drink it away or cry it out, anything to get rid of the heartache. But it was no good. He still loved her and it turned him bitter. Applejack had had to put up with it for four nights and she feared it would continue; the very sight of him hurt her. She was wrenched away from her thoughts as Discord poked her on the shoulder. "Why the long face?" He purred softly, drawling out each word in a soft, conspiratorial whisper. "That ain't none of yer business." Applejack huffed and turned away. She wasn't going to lie, but there was no way she'd tell him the problem. Discord merely grinned, amused by Applejack's stubbornness. "Oh come now, AJ. Tell Dissy your troubles." "No!" Applejack said, annoyed by Discord's persistence. She really wanted to say. She needed to tell someone, just not Discord. Spike laughed and Applejack stole a glance at him. Discord noticed this. He noticed the deep longing in Applejack's eyes. He followed her eyes before...No, really? Oh this was too precious! Applejack and Spike. He then grinned smugly and turned back to Applejack who was now looking down solemnly as she dried off another glass. 'Time for some fun!' He thought with a devilish grin. "Soo Applejack..." He drawled and smiled again when he got a rather bemused scowl from Applejack in response. "What?" Applejack replied through gritted teeth. "How have the past four nights been, couldn't have been easy trying deal with this lump of lard moping about." He of course was referring to Spike, who wasn't exactly as lumpy and lardy as he had been a few years ago. Applejack drew out an airy sigh, before replying. "Dandy, just dandy." Though her tone and composure were cool and relaxed, Discord knew he was getting close. "Really? No long speeches about Rarity and how beautiful she is? Or, long nights of crying? Any fires?" "Nope." "Well then, what about you? I noticed Spike hasn't exactly been considerate of others while he's been throwing his tantrum." Applejack gulped loudly, notifying Discord he'd hit a nerve. Once again, he smiled smugly. "Dandy, just dandy." Discord frowned. He was tired of the game, time to be blunt. "Do you take me for an idiot, Applejack?" He asked, frustrated, "You don't live through ten centuries without picking up a couple hints." "Besides," He added nonchalantly, "you're a terrible liar." Applejack hid her eyes under the brim of her hat, trying to hide her embarrassment. Knowing he'd finally won, he leaned in close to the quivering mare. "I'm all ears." He said, before magically enlarging his ears, just to prove his point.
Mission accomplishedAuthor's Note New chapter! Same as before, just enjoy and feel free to comment (I dearly love feedback). Not going to attempt saying anything french in this one or else Vlaarith will have my skin once I get it wrong. But hey, we learn from mistakes, am I right? Anyway, hope you all like it! Mission accomplished An hour after entering the bar, both Soarin and Discord have managed to coax Spike into drinking a bit and talking about his problems. Soarin and Spike continue to talk while Discord listens intently to Applejack, as she 'spills the beans' on her current mood. Though the others thought him drunk, the few cups of Cider had began to wear off on Spike (Dragons are weird that way). Maybe that's why he was still drinking more, he didn't want to have the liberty of free thought; he didn't need reality dragging him around just then. Okay, so he wasn't exactly sober, but he had enough wit about him to allow him some degree of intelligent thought. Only problem was: He hated it. It was an occupational hazard really. Having lived with Twilight his entire life, he had picked up a couple tricks on logical thinking. Then again, who wouldn't after being stuck with her for days and days on end. Frankly, it was surprising he hadn't yet adopted all of her mannerisms. In any case, either way he looked at this whole situation, he saw there was no one to really blame and it angered him. How could so much emotion come from nothing? His feelings had been real hadn't they? Maybe the numerous dreams and fantasies had been exactly that; dreams and fantasies. Now they seemed more like ghosts - threatening to haunt him forever. Maybe it wasn't meant to be. But all the time spent on Rarity, all for nothing? No. That just didn't make sense. He must have learned something, something must have been gained. In the end, he supposed, Rarity had given him a drive and a purpose. She'd made every moment special. So even if they weren't together now, that didn't make those memories any less real. Spike smiled. After four days of mulling it over, he was starting to get somewhere. But there was still pain. He needed another drink. "Another drink please, Applejack." He said in his usual perky tone of voice. Applejack turned to him with moist eyes, before composing herself and smiling. "Good ta have ya back with the living, sugarcube." She said softly, while passing him another drink, classically sliding it across the bar top for it to come directly into Spike's waiting claw. Spike kept his eyes locked with hers for a moment, before wrenching himself away to stare into his drink. Had she been crying? What was she talking to Discord about? How had he not noticed? How...oh... Spike's pupils shrank as a thought crossed his mind. He'd been here for four days. All that time he'd been a mess, with no thought or consideration for anyone else. Applejack had been there the entire time. She'd tried to help, tried to get him out of his misery but he'd merely pushed her away. He'd been so cold-blooded, and just a few hours ago, he'd yelled at her, demanding another can of Root beer. She'd hid her eyes under her hat and seemed to sob, before calling him...what was it, 'Varmint?' It all felt like years ago already. Celestia, emotion sucks... He buried his face in his claws as the torment was being heaped up on his brain. She was his friend. He'd treated her like dirt, bossing her around. Why hadn't she resisted? Why hadn't she kicked him out, or slapped him, anything! Of course, it was because she was Applejack. She'd endured so much. She was so strong, and would never let the pain show. He was her friend, she'd never hurt him. Some friend he'd been. Oh Celestia, what had he done? Tears began to well up in his eyes as he cursed himself. He'd taken everything out on her and it made him feel like an absolute wretch just thinking about it. Good. He deserved that much. He looked up and turned to see Soarin looking at him, with a look of concern, maybe pity. Just another bad reminder. His friends Soarin and Discord were trying to help him the best way they knew how. They really were the best friends any Drake could ask for. Always fun and optimistic, but also humble; ready to help a friend in need or admit their flaws. Ready to pull together to make each other stronger. It was so bittersweet. It made his heart swell with gratitude for his friends. He was so lucky. How could he have been so blind and selfish? They were great, always looking for the best in people and it made him feel like crap. So he'd lost out on Rarity, that didn't make him unloved. "Hey Spike, how are you doing?" Soarin asked. He'd been watching Spike intently for a while, studying any visible signs. Soarin himself had known Spike ever since the Equestria games, where they'd both met in a cafeteria before quickly becoming best friends. They had a couple similarities but were also very different from each other, and that's what kept their friendship fun. Plus, he knew Rainbow Dash; he'd needed an asset in his quest for her affections. And ever since Discord got in the mix, the three have been inseparable. After having learned to expand his circle of friends, Discord had found favour with a more mature and grown-up Spike. Though Spike himself couldn't use chaos based magic, he still had some insight into the various types of the Arcane arts. Having been an assistant to Princess Twilight Sparkle, he'd picked up a great understanding of various types of magic, though he himself could only breath fire. He understood Discord, being a bit of an 'outsider' himself. Being a dragon in Ponyville wasn't all rainbows and sunshine! So they were a trio. Life was a great adventure and when the Mane six were out, Spike and the crew would get together for some fun and mayhem. Only minor pranks really, but it still kept Discord happy. Spike turned, sniffed and rubbed his eyes of the tears. His eyes were slightly red in the corners and his cheeks stained from the rivulets of tears. He nodded. "Okay. No, I'm better than okay. I'm great!" He laughed, coughing a bit on the lump in his throat. He reached out and embraced Soarin. "I'm so lucky to have you guys and I'm sorry for being such a dweeb." Soarin was caught off guard by the young drake hugging him. Spike was at least a foot taller than Soarin and the sight looked like an over grown child cuddling a rather petrified Pegasus plush doll. He smiled softly before reaching around to pat the Spike on the back. "It's cool bro. We're amigos right?" Spike pulled back laughing while drawing back more tears. "Right!" Discord and Applejack both looked at this with smiles plastered to their faces. Discord stood up, summoning a dinner jacket, white gloves, a cane and a top hat. He slipped on the gloves and jacket before turning to Applejack. Cane in one hand, he bowed, dipping his body in her direction whilst sweeping his other arm low across his chest, top hat in hand. "Thank you dear, we've had a most pleasant stay. But alas, our mission is complete, thus it is time we take our leave." Discord said in all his gentlemen swagger. He stood back up and strutted toward the saloon doors, before stopping and turning back to Soarin. "Come now Soarin, best get you back to the miss'." Soarin teetered a bit before landing lazily on the floor. "coming." He gargled Discord struck his cane on the floor, getting everypony's attention. "Once again, I thank you for the fantastic service Applejack! The drinks were splendid and the conversation most engaging. I trust you to get home in one piece Spike?" Spike nodded mutely. "Splendid. Then let us take our leave, post-haste, to Cloudsdale!" Soarin took two steps forward and passed out on the floor. Discord slapped his face. "Great Scott, WHY SOARIN?" Discord yelled, annoyed. He picked up Soarin with his magic and with a *BAMF*...they were gone, leaving a dark purple cloud to dissipate in patches, along with the dank and musky smell of Brimstone. Applejack blinked in utter confusion. No matter how hard she tried, she could never understand Discord and his...erm, dramatic flare. "Don't try. Trust me, it only hurts." Applejack blinked again and turned to stare at Spike who was looking in her direction, drinking another pint of cider. "How..." She began but Spike held up a hand. "I recognize the look. After a while, you get used to it; Discord and all his finesse." Her eyes flicked from him, to the dissipating cloud, then back to spike before shaking her head and chuckling. Spike gave an amused huff before returning to his drink. He knew perfectly well that he had to talk to AJ, to apologise. Just, how do you do it? 'Hey Applejack, I'm sorry for being a giant jerk this entire time and putting you through hell!' Yeah, like that's gonna work. It sounded pathetic. He chuckled. How fitting; that was exactly how he felt.
My kind of ApplesNeither of them spoke for what seemed, the longest time. The silence was ironically deafening; it ate at Spike's conscious, kicking and beating him, yelling at him to say something to her. ANYTHING! Spike was sitting on a stool at one end of the bar while Applejack was polishing the decanter on the other end of the bar. They both stole glances at each other every so often, just to maybe see what the other was thinking. Applejack sighed softly and turned her head away in remorse. What was she supposed to say? Tell him she liked him? No, that would just mess Spike up even more. Plus, Applejack didn't want to be some kind of rebound. Maybe a buffer? At least until things get less awkward between Spike and Rarity... Applejack and Discord had been discussing this earlier while Spike was with Soarin. Discord had been confident that Spike would get over Rarity eventually and for that, Applejack was happy; at least old Spike would be back. But that didn't fix Applejack's real problem. She was lonely. Sure she had friends and family, but it wasn't the same. All her friends had something she didn't and she needed it bad. But she couldn't allow herself to get in the way of Spike's happiness. When she'd told that to Discord he'd merely sighed and nodded solemnly in what looked like defeat. There was nothing he could do for her; he knew that and so did she. But it had still been nice to talk it out, to know that Discord had caring side. In all honesty she was starting to warm up to him. Unbeknownst to the farm mare, Spike had been starring at her, lost in thought. She was so quiet...silently suffering? How like Applejack to never complain. He looked over her again as the candle light highlighted her mane and tail. She was beautiful. How had he never noticed? She had the cutest freckles on her cheeks. AND HER EYES! They were so much like his, but they held such depth, so captivating and... Aww, cuss. Applejack had turned and had found Spike looking at her face. Not just at her, but into her. His eyes were sharp and piercing, cutting straight through her. She shivered under his gaze and felt the heat creep up into her cheeks as she locked eyes with him. They continued to stare. Spike could feel the sweat forming on his brow and the heat radiating from his cheeks. AJ was blushing too, redder than apples, but it just added to her cuteness and deepened the shinning emerald of her eyes. Spike was the one to break the moment, looking down into his drink. Applejack cocked her head to one side in curiosity. "What's wrong sad eyes?" Spike looked up and smiled. "I'm not sad. It's called brooding. More manly see?" He joked. Applejack giggled and once again Spike was flung into a trance. Rarity, Discord, depression, everything just went out the window and was replaced by that glorious laugh. Had he been so caught up with Rarity to have never noticed it before? once again looking down, he mumbled, "I'm sorry." "What was that Sugarcube?" Applejack inquired. Spike lifted his head to look sternly at her. "I'm sorry" He said again, rather stoically. Applejack was taken aback by this but soon recovered. "Sorry fer what Spike?" "Everything." He paused before continuing allowing himself to think out carefully what he'd say next. "These past four days I've been a jerk, to you and all my friends, but especially you. I thought...because I'd lost Rarity there was nothing left and that I didn't have to give two curses for anyone...I, I don't know what I was thinking." He said, allowing his voice to fade by the end. Applejack put down the decanter, jumped the bar and walked over to Spike. "Hey," she said, lifting up his chin to speak directly into him, "I took it because I knew you needed to vent. I knew that you'd come around Sugarcube." "Don't you get it?" Spike cried, tears starting to form in the corners of his eyes, "This isn't about me, this is about you! Applejack you're so caring that you don't care about yourself! I'm a worthless piece of crap, but you are so beautiful and let yourself be treated like dirt. Don't say anything yet, just let me finish...You...you make me want to become better. A better person, a better friend and a better man. But, these past four days, I wasn't able to see it. I didn't realize the damage that I've caused and I wish I could just change it but I can't! I wish sorry was enough but it just isn't! Applejack I..." He was suddenly cut off as he felt something gently caress his lips. He looked to see it was Applejack. She was standing on her hind legs, holding his face to hers with her front hooves. Spike was lost and allowed himself to sink into the kiss as he wrapped his arms around her, holding her close to him. It was paradise. ...And it tasted unsurprisingly of apples. Applejack broke the kiss but still held his face, pressing her forehead against his, gazing into his eyes. Applejack too was now crying, both from the pain of Spike's words but also the boundless joy she felt well up within her. "Spike, Sugercube, never before has anyone said something like that to me. You are the most noble and humble creature I have ever met...and loved." Spike was at a complete loss for words but what Applejack had just said left him paralyzed to the spot. Loved? LOVED! "AJ..." She hushed him, pressing her hoof against his lips as she smiled lovingly at him. "You ain't the only one to have suffered from unrequited love Spike. I couldn't get in the way of your happiness. I lied to myself, telling myself I'd be as happy as a pig in mud so long as you were happy...but like I said...That was me lyin'. And it hurt Spike, Celestia it hurt so bad! But it's okay. I forgive you" All this time, she'd kept silent...for him. Spike couldn't take it anymore, he needed to know. "How long?" Applejack giggled. "'Bout a year or two now. We've all seen how hard you work fer Rarity Spike. Have ta say, yer one tenacious little fella aren't ya?" Spike smiled. "I'm not so little anymore AJ. I was always going to just be Spikey-wikey, that's all I was to Rarity. I'm...I'm glad I'm not anymore." It was strange really. Within a matter of moments all his affections for Rarity had been flipped. He wasn't blind anymore. He wasn't yet sure what he felt for Applejack, it wouldn't be a lie to say he had coveted some feelings for her in the past, but this was different. He felt so much love and bliss; nothing he'd ever felt with Rarity. It was one thing to love someone, but it was something far greater to have those same feelings returned. Spike never before knew he could feel so much. All this time they embraced one another, letting tears of guilt be replaced by tears of abounding happiness. After a while they pulled apart. "Well it's gettin' late. I best be gettin' home." Applejack sighed contently. "Yeah," Spike agreed in the same airy tone. Applejack started to walk out and Spike whirled around, forcing himself back into focus. "Applejack!" He called. She turned back to him and smiled. "Yes?" 'Oh crap, oh shoot...say something idiot! No stop gawking and just ask her...I know she's hot... Celestia, I said STOP!' "Erm...are you..." "I'm off tomorrow, Sugarcube. You can come 'round the farm an' pick me up around six." "Oh, right. Thanks...erm, night AJ." "G'night Spike." She then left. Spike was left standing there for a moment. Then the toothiest, smuggest and most giddy smile crossed his face. He leaped in the air and cheered, fist pumping. He landed and sighed out in content. Things were certainly looking up. He walked out the door and turned out the light, laughing to himself. "RIP Friendzone." The End Author's Note Well there you have it folks. The ending of Marshall_Evergreen's glorious premier story. Hope you all enjoyed it just as much as I enjoyed writing it. Don't forget to 'like' it! yay Applespike!
The survival guideIt's a lovely autumn evening (fall, for all my 'murican homies). The sunset over the horizon is simply stunning, as its reflected light pools out and radiates across the sea. Feeling lucky to be alive, I sit at my typewriter and begin working my magic. Just as I'm about to press the first button, Spike barges in, looking rather frazzled. "What the hay Marshall!" He roars indignantly, "You wrote a prequel?!" Smiling, coolly I reply, "I thought it'd be fun." As if that was all that needed to be said. Spike wasn't having any of it. "Fun? Wasn't the first story good enough for you? Haven't you torn up my character enough? How miserable do I have to be before you're happy!?" "Hey," I begin, noticing his contradiction, "I hooked you up with AJ." "Touche." "Besides," I continue, "it isn't that bad. Just a bit of humor and quirk. No harm done boyo." Spike had turned his glaring eyes from me and directed them to focus on the sunset outside. I noticed beyond the anger and frustration, a hint of fear. Then I noticed the other signs. He was sweating and nervously pulling at his hands, trying to get something out of his mind. "Spike. What's bothering you?" "What, me? Nothing!" Spike said defiantly. "I just wrote a flippin' paragaph on how nervous you are, so what's wrong!" "Well..." Spike begins in uncertainty, "prequels are known for stinking with a bad reputation. I'm just worried that it might ruin this story." Then his pupils shrank and his knees buckled in an expression that could only be read as horror. "Sweet mother of Celestia, you didn't include Jar Jar Binks did you? DID YOU!" "Only Discord, my friend." "That really doesn't make it any better..." Well ladies and gentlemen, in case you haven't sussed it out already, there is prequel to this story! Though I recommend you read this story first, I hope you enjoy it all the same. Thus, may I present to you, the second story in the holy galactic library of Marshall_Evergreen. Friendzoned: A declassified survival guide Enjoy! Marshall out.
