BDUs

Sub-Chapter 1: A Hero’s Ignorance And Denial

“Often, people become confused or lost at some point in their life. They chase things aimlessly, because they don’t what exactly they’re doing with their life. Then, when they’ve finally attained it, they realize it’s not what they want; not in the slightest.

Maybe I am Alone… Maybe I am Exiled… Maybe I have lost what I chased for Years and what I fought so very hard to Protect, but… Death isn’t what I want. There’s no comfort in that dark abyss.

What I want is something to fill this shelly feeling of emptiness… Somebody to fix this loneliness… I think… I think what I want is another risk. But do I want to take that chance…? Do I want another Rarity…?

No!

I don’t think the people deserve such a thing; they don’t deserve another incident of an unstable Hero. I think the only thing I should do is live to protect. As much as it hurts, I will have to forcefully mold myself into just an instrument of Princess Twilight, void of emotion, void of the capability of love; this is what I am meant to be.

It is my philosophy, it is my belief; it is my doctrine, it is my politic; it is my religion, it is my cult… An instrument of protection, that’s all I am, it is all I shall want to be… Just a tool to Your Kingdom, my Highness.

But the pain of knowing I’m just that… That that’s all I ever will be… That pain is like being stuck in a dream… Like I’m stuck in a dream, and I’ll never wake up…!”
~Spike, The Exiled

Spike lay on the ground, his own pool of blood warming him. He had lost almost all feeling in his entire body, and he saw nothing but a black haze in the dead-silence of the night. The only thing he felt now was pain; Pain and Regret…

“On the ground I lay, motionless in pain. I can see my life, flashing before my eyes…” Spike thought, as he felt the red liquid he was in.

“Lying on the ground… wondering when will it all collapse…?” Spike thought to himself, feeling his senses go.

The tears fell more, as he remembered everything he did. What drove him to fight so hard in these past years. Why he was always so valiant and valorous. How much he did, and how hard he tried, all for naught.

“So much regret… I did so much… For what…? To lose everything? My home, my love, my status. To die here, alone in the woods, unnoticed and unloved, like some dirty, mangy mutt?” Spike questioned bitterly, with a hard sniff. He still struggled to get up. He wanted so badly not to die now.

“Please, if there is some higher power out there… Please, just please… Don’t let me die! Not like this!” Spike thought, as he collapsed into his pool of blood again, this time falling on his back, as he watched the moonlit sky…

[With Sweetie-Belle…]

Sweetie-Belle galloped frantically through the woods, getting cut up by shambles and vines and stray branches all over, but she didn’t care. Her Hero was dying, and he wanted to get her help ASAP!

Tears ran down her muzzle as she remembered the images. The look of fear on his face as he impaled himself for her.

“Why didn’t I listen?! I should’ve gone home!” Sweetie-Belle thought to herself angrily and full of guilt, as she bashed head-on into a tree, the tears in her eyes distorting her vision. She felt the nasty wound on her head and could feel the blood leak, but she didn’t care. This was minor, so very minor, in comparison to Spike.

She got up and kept running. She remembered the faded look in his eyes, as he stumbled over from his wounds. How he was already so dead…

“You don’t understand what a Hero is, Sweetie-Belle. We don’t feel pain unless those we are destined to protect feel it. This is nothing but a flesh wound. You are mostly untouched, and as such, I am happy. A Hero is nothing more than an instrument, a tool, meant to protect and serve. I did just that. Whether or not I make it after this is inconsequential, as long as you are safe.” She remembered Spike preach to her.

“No! That’s not true! You’re not just some instrument or tool, Spike! You’re something so much more! It doesn’t matter what this whole thing with Rarity made you think Spike, you’re so much more important! Please, just hang in there…!” Sweetie-Belle thought, as she hopped over several bushes. Zecora’s Hut was finally in view.

Sweetie-Belle ran in and bashed through the front door. Twilight and Zecora looked up at her with wide eyes. Twilight immediately pushed aside her studying books and stood.

“Sweetie-Belle, dear Celestia, what happened to you! Your forehead, it’s leaking blood all over the floor!” Twilight said worriedly, trotting up to her to treat her. Sweetie-Belle slapped her hoof away, and started rambling in between gasps, absolutely out of breath.

“Slow down and be calm, Sweetie-Belle; only then can we understand what it is you wish to tell!” Zecora said frantically, being excited by Sweetie-Belle’s own frantic uproar.

The tears dropped from Sweetie-Belle’s eyes. “Spike needs help! He’s in the woods, alone, bleeding to his death as we speak!” Sweetie-Belle sobbed loudly, not even bothering to explain how. There was no time.

“WHAT?!” Twilight gasped, rushing out through the door. “Oh my goodness! We have to go, like now!” Twilight said frantically, trotting in place.

“Twilight wait, don’t let franticness make you a fool! Spike would simply die if we don’t first gather some tools!” Zecora said, running around the Hut to grab medical tools and such.

Twilight stomped her feet in place impatiently and then ruffled her mane in an extremely stressed and frustrated manner.

Zecora slapped the things into a bag and slung it across her back. She then gestured with her head that they should leave.

“Go Sweetie-Belle, lead the way, and quickly!” Twilight said, as Sweetie-Belle dashed off at top speed. Twilight and Zecora followed suit, dashing away through the dense forestation of the Everfree.

[With Our Dying Hero…]

Spike lay there in his own blood. He no longer had the strength to even attempt to get up anymore. All he could do was watch his surroundings as the black haze only grew stronger, eating out the dull moonlit sky.

He had been in many life-or-death situations before, but none ever made him feel this scared. He was never scared of death. Being killed in protection of that which he was destined to protect was the only way he ever wanted to die, yet…

“Yet, I don’t want to die like this…” Spike thought.

Something was incomplete. There was an emptiness in him that he just couldn’t deduce, or rather, refused to deduce.

He saw the black haze begin to eat his vision up, as his surroundings began to fade. His eyes began to close against his will, and the tears on his face ceased. His breathing hitched, and heart-rate slowed drastically…

…

…

…

He felt his body lift upward, and just before the black gaze engulfed his vision, he saw a familiar lavender-coated mare.

“T-Twilight…?” he coughed weakly, his face completely pale. His body couldn’t function properly, and he couldn’t quite make out her words, but he could tell that she was worried.

Spike could see her yelling and hollering at him, but the words were inaudible due to his near-death state. Twilight shook him slightly, and then tears spilled from her eyes, her words still being inaudible to her. She brought him into a quick hug and quickly pecked his cheeks multiple times.

She gently laid him back down, as he simply stared into the sky, not being able to do anything else. Thankfully, his body’s near-death already sedated him, and he couldn’t feel what was happening to him:

Zecora quickly cleaned his wound, disinfected the entire area, and Twilight used her magic to force the wound as closely-shut as it could be.

Zecora then quickly and skillfully sewed the wound shut as best she could. They did the same for the opening in his back, and then laid him on his back once again. The stretching and melding of the flesh would’ve probably been eons more painful had Spike been more conscious, but thankfully, he wasn’t.

Twilight and Sweetie-Belle lifted Spike onto a clean white sheet, away from his small pool of blood. Zecora took a long needle that had a long, slender tube attached, and jabbed it into Spike’s gut, near the wound, close to his heart. She then turned on a pump-like device that pumped a red liquid into his body.

She would counter the blood loss by injecting Spike with the blood of previously slain dragons that she had tested the anatomy of (in an attempt to learn more about Spike, of course) after their encounters with Spike. It was risky since they didn’t know the compatibility of dragon blood when mixed with other dragon blood, but it was the only way to counter the fatal amount of blood loss Spike just experienced.

Although the hustle-and-bustle was clear and obvious, Spike only heard all the excitement in a form of inaudible chatter, sort of like what you’d hear in a densely-populated marketplace.

Things calmed down slightly, and Spike’s senses returned, albeit him still being weak and mostly immobile. His body had gained just enough strength to barely register his senses back online.

Twilight trotted over to him and stood over him. Spike looked up at her weakly. They both stared at each other for several seconds.
“You cute, reckless little idiot.” Twilight finally spoke, tears welling in her eyes again.

Spike was still in a dazed state from near-death, and couldn’t quite act properly, so he just gave a half-way smile, as his eyes fluttered, struggling to keep awake.

“Seriously, Spike. When Sweetie-Belle told me what happened, I was so worried. That was too damn reckless.” Twilight said in a scold. She then smiled.

“I’m just glad you’re okay, Spike.” She said, lifting him up into a hug. His arms hung lazily to his side, even as she hugged him, since he was still half-unconscious.

“You don’t know how worried I was, Spike. Don’t ever do that again, okay? Don’t you ever, ever, ever, ever, ever, ever, ever, ever, ever! Worry me like that again… I can’t tell you how my heart almost stopped when I saw you lying there, in a puddle of blood.” Twilight said lowly, talking close to his ear.

She heard no response, and no reaction, so she figured he was still dazed out of consciousness.

“Don’t ever worry me like that again Spike, because…” Twilight began, as her heart-rate increased, and she felt her cheeks grow hot.

“I love you, Spike, my Hero.” She said very lowly, so that only the two of them could hear.

Although still dazed, Spike lifted his arms, and returned Twilight’s hug in response. Twilight gave a slight yelp, as her body grew hot in embarrassment that Spike may have been conscious enough to register what she whispered. Her face grew red, and she stood there frozen.

As either released the hug, Spike slipped back into the white sheet laid out for him, and his eyes quickly fell as his body forced him to sleep to make repairing the damage he received easier.

Twilight sighed a breath of relief, under the impression that he most likely didn’t hear her. She sat next to Spike, watching him breathe gently. She was extremely relieved that the Hero was alright.

Zecora and Sweetie-Belle decided that the privacy was no longer needed, and joined Twilight.

“How is he?” Sweetie-Belle asked.

“He seems alright. He’s sleeping peacefully, at least.” Twilight said in a relieved tone.

“That sounds quite good. Everything is being as it should.” Zecora said, examining the young dragon.

“So… What’s the plan now, Twilight? How’re we gonna handle this whole exile situation?” Sweetie-Belle asked.

“Well, I was doing some studying, and-” Twilight began, but was interrupted by rustles in the leaves, and what sounded like the movement of stretching wood.

“I hate to interrupt, but I think now would be best to head back to the Hut.” Zecora suggested, as all three stood around Spike defensively.

Although unconscious, the aura of protection, care, and love gave Spike a sense of comfort that brought a smile upon his unconscious lips.

As they all had their backs facing each other in a makeshift triangle protecting Spike, Twilight spoke.

“I’m gonna slowly pick up Spike, guys. I need you to watch and protect me, because he has to be carried delicately.” Twilight said, as a faint magical aura began to cover Spike.

“Understood, Princess.” Sweetie-Belle said, as Zecora nodded, both not taking their eyes off the surrounding forest.

Twilight gently picked up Spike in her magical aura, along with the pumping device that was stabilizing his blood-levels.

She then turned and slowly began to head back towards Zecora’s Hut. Zecora took the lead, while Sweetie-Belle watched from the back, her horn glowing and ready to attack.

The rustling in the bushes got closer as they walked on.

“Contact!” Zecora yelled, as 2 timber-wolves jumped out in front of them all. Zecora, using her front-hooves as a base, lifted herself and delivered a powerful kick to one timber-wolf, shattering it with her hind-hooves.

The other one lunged at Zecora, but was quickly blasted away by Sweetie-Belle’s destructive blast. “I gotcha’, keep moving.” Sweetie-Belle said, as they all kept walking through.

More rustling…

“Guys, we’re almost there, don’t screw up.” Twilight said, as they trudged through the forestation. Zecora and Sweetie-Belle nodded.

They reached the clearing that led to Zecora’s Hut, finally. Just as they had, three timber-wolves poured out of the forest behind them.

“Twilight, take Spike into the Hut. Sweetie and I more than capable of handling the mutts.” Zecora said. Twilight nodded, and trotted to the hut, Spike floating beside her. She disappeared inside.

“Careful Zecora.” Sweetie-Belle said, as they both circled the wolves, surrounding them.

“Worry not about me Sweetie-Belle; I can handle myself so very well.” Zecora said with a smile.

“Now is only better for me; I am no longer encumbered by Spike’s injuries.” Zecora said, as she dashed at one of the wolves. She jumped high and did a powerful spin, connecting her back-hoof with the jaw of timber-wolf, crushing its head. The other two tried to jump at her, but Zecora simply stood on both hind legs and clotheslined both of them into the dirt, pulverizing and decimating them.

Sweetie-Belle watched in great astonishment. She didn’t even have a chance to make a move.

“Holy cow! Zecora, I didn’t know you were so strong!” Sweetie-Belle commented, mouth agape.

“I have lived in this forest for years at a time; as such, its creatures force me to always be at my prime.” Zecora explained, as she trotted towards the hut.

“Come, let us check up on our good Hero, Spike. Then we may discuss what our plans for the future are like.” Zecora suggested, as Sweetie-Belle nodded and followed her inside.

Both went inside. Zecora frowned at the smashed door, and then sent a small glare towards Sweetie-Belle. She shrugged sheepishly. Zecora sighed, and both entered the doorway.

Twilight sat next to the gently-sleeping dragon. His face was still pale, but it looked like the blood returned to his skin.

Zecora examined the pump, and saw that the blood was depleted. She removed the needle, and disposed of it. She then got white bandages, and wrapped up Spike’s wounds, as they still bled slightly, the stitches not quite holding it together. He would simply have to rest now to heal the remainder of the injuries.

“What did you find out Twilight? How is it that we can remove the title of exiled from our fair Hero Spike?” Zecora asked.

“Oh, about that… So little people have been exiled before that it’s quite hard to say. Usually, only villains that were extremely tyrannous such as Tirek or Chrysalis have ever been exiled. There’s pretty much no information on the redemption of an exile…” Twilight started.

Sweetie-Belle gasped softly. “You don’t mean he’ll be exiled indefinitely?” Sweetie-Belle asked.

Twilight smiled. “Yet, Discord was once exiled for his acts of tyranny and anarchy. Yet, he walks among pony-kind today. Why is that, do you think?” Twilight asked, her smile growing.

“Of course, he was rehabilitated! But, how do we do that with Spike?” Sweetie-Belle asked.

“It’s easy. All we have to do is convince the people that Spike has absolutely realized his wrong, have him perform an act of redemption, probably slaying a potential threat to the kingdoms of Equestria, and then he can come back to Ponyville!” Twilight said, with a cheery smile.

“Yes! He can come back!!!” Sweetie-Belle said with great awe. Zecora smiled greatly.

“It is good to know that Spike will be able to return. Now I feel a decrease in my levels of concern.” Zecora said, pleased.

The three cheered and laughed, happy that this whole ordeal would be over.

“The people will love him again!” Sweetie-Belle cheered.

“We can love him again!” Twilight said happily.

“His return will be filled with love!” both chirped excitedly, smiles on their faces.

Love…

Love…

Love…!

Spike’s hand reached up and grabbed Twilight’s shoulder. He lifted himself up, his head bowed, and an eerie shadow was cast over his face, hiding his emotions.

“Spike, you’re awake!” Sweetie-Belle cheered, with open hooves.

Spike held his palm out to her, indicating for her to keep her distance.

“Spike?” Twilight and Sweetie-Belle questioned. Zecora watched intently.

Spike looked up, the bags underneath his eyes apparent. He looked at the inhabitants of the room with a hard, militaristic stare.

“I won’t return. I am exiled, let it stay that way.” Spike said. He lifted his legs off of the bed he was placed upon, sitting up, despite his injury.
There was a dead silence in the room…

“W-what?” Twilight began. She then laughed nervously. “Oh, you joker! Of course you’d want to come back home!” Twilight said, with a nervous snort.

“What home? I don’t know if you know, but I relinquished my home to… Her… To them.” Spike said, as he stood.

“Oh, she’s inconsequential, Spike! You can’t be serious! Come back, the people want you, they need you. We, and the people, love you!” Sweetie-Belle said. Spike cringed at the word.

“I’m a Hero. We don’t need that stuff. Everything I ever need is right here in the real world. Food, space, and resources. I realized something: with Rarity, that is.” Spike said, as he faced them. They focused their attention on him.

“Love is inconsequential. Something not needed. If I am to protect the people efficiently, then I can’t have something that would potentially hurt my users and benefiters. What use would a hammer be if its handle was spiked?” Spike asked. He began to gather his things, and fastened the dagger to the back of his waist. Zecora watched him intently.

“So what’ll you do then, Spike?” Twilight asked, pain on her voice.

“Protect the kingdom from the shadows. I won’t fail you, Princess. I’ll never truly abandon my people.” Spike said formally.

“Why…? Why won’t you come back, Spike?” Twilight asked, her lips quivering.

“I’m better off alone.” Spike said, as he frowned.

“Dear Spike, I can already see your blight.” Zecora thought with a small smile.

“What will I do without my Hero? W-who will stay with me now?” Twilight asked with shiny eyes.

“You have a kingdom full of people and access to the royal-guard, Princess Twilight. I am forever yours, I will simply be a protection that is no longer tangible.” Spike said, as he picked up his bag.

“But they’re not Spike…” Twilight sighed in pain, as she saw Spike walk towards the door.

“Are you planning to leave already?! You’ve barely healed!” Twilight said, running to the door and blocking it.

“Y-you can’t leave yet!” Twilight said frantically as she guarded the door. Spike stood in front of her with a frown.

“Princess, this isn’t necessary. I will be fine.” Spike said, walking up to her.

“No, no, no! Stay with us, just for a few more days, please! Spike, don’t go!” Twilight said in a plea. Spike walked up to her, and picked her up, walking out and putting her down. Twilight turned around and watched Spike.

“You aren’t gonna let him leave, are you?!” Sweetie-Belle asked, running outside to watch, pained herself.

“Spike…” Twilight said, watching Spike back away from them. Twilight’s lips quivered more, as the water piled on the edges of her eyes. She dug into the ground with one front-hoof in constant stomps and frustrated/frantic stamps.

Spike saluted, keeping his hard-stare. “Trust me, it’s better that I’m not loved. It’s just a danger to you all.” He said, as he brought his hand down and started turning around.

“That’s the blight that plagues our Spike!” Zecora mused.

“DON’T LEAVE!” Twilight cried out hopelessly, as the tears began to run down her face.

“Twilight quick, there is no time to lose! To rehabilitate him, it is your love that you must use!” Zecora said. Twilight stood there, dumbfounded.
“Don’t just stand there, go, do what she says and bring Spike back!” Sweetie-Belle said in an exasperated manner.

Twilight wiped her tears and nodded. “Spike!” Twilight called, as Spike turned around.

Before Spike could react, Twilight ran up to him and tackled him in a hug. Spike attempted to pry her off, but Twilight only hugged harder. Spike lost his strength to some powerful force Twilight was making him feel.

Zecora watched with a knowing smile. Sweetie-Belle watched with a slight tinge of jealousy.

“I hate Rarity for making you this way!” Twilight said, hugging him harder. Spike tried to keep his face hard, but the embrace weakened his wall.

“I hate you for being so selfish!” Twilight said, clutching him harder. Spike’s strength drained even more, as he felt his eyes sting. He shook his head in denial, as he tried to pry Twilight off, but that mysterious, forceful power took over him again, his arms weakening.

“I hate my stupid kingdom for exiling you! I don’t want to be princess if you’re leaving, Spike! When the Mane Six broke up, you were the only friend who kept visiting me every day, even though you and I were both equally as busy. You were the one who kept me company on those long nights of work, who helped me make those big decisions I couldn’t do alone, who helped me through times of crisis with your sheer willpower. I… I don’t want to be a Princess if I can’t have you anymore, Spike! Because…!” Twilight began, as a single tear fell from her muzzle.

“I love you!” Twilight cried, as the tear hit Spike’s face. That tear dropped all strength and whatever wall of defense he had left to keep attempting to pry Twilight from himself. Spike’s own eyes watered. He tried to keep them back, attempting to pry Twilight away, but he couldn’t keep them from leaking down his face, draining his strength.

“I love you, I love you, I love you, I love you, I love you, Spike! Please, don’t leave us…!” Twilight pleaded in sloppy sentences, sobbing against the dragon. Her heart ached. She didn’t want the closest person to her to suddenly disappear into darkness. She hugged the now limp Spike harder and harder, shoving her face into his neck, holding him. Spike was silent…

Sub-Chapter 2: A Hero’s Acceptance

Everything was silent, save for Twilight’s soft sobs, as she held Spike to the ground with her powerful hug.

Twilight loosened her grip, feeling defeated. He would leave… She would be alone… Rarity would’ve won… She would never see him again… Twilight’s eyes watered more, as her grip loosened more and more.

A single sniff/snort was heard. Twilight looked at Spike, who now had tears cascading down his face. He was biting his lip to keep from sobbing. He pulled his arms around Twilight and hugged her back harder than ever.

He began to sob quietly, despite trying to hold it back. He hugged her harder and harder, his emotions falling out more with each drop of salty tears that dropped from his face. He hugged the surprised Twilight harder and harder.

As his crying eased, he kept her in the embrace.

“This is what you’ve wanted. Your time with Rarity made you forget what it was like to feel loved. You tried so hard every single time, but you never received true love. You began to forget how great it feels to be appreciated. You were scared to open yourself up to such a thing because you didn’t want to get hurt again, but in reality, you are more hurt by the thought of never being loved again. Your ploy of being the perfect Hero ends here. Nobody is perfect, and you are no exception. This is what you seek, this is what you want. Love. You do want acceptance, and you do want love. You need this. It is what kept you fighting, have you not said it yourself many times? You deserve this, Hero. You are something great. Do not ever let any one person make you think differently. Never seclude yourself, and always remember that you have ones that truly love you.” His subconscious echoed.

Spike sniffed, as he let go of Twilight.

“Twilight thank you, I neede-, mmph!” Spike began, but she put both hooves around his neck and abruptly pulled him in for a passionate kiss.

Spike felt his heart flutter, as he closed his eyes. A slew of colors played in the blackness of his closed eyes, as he returned the kiss. He hadn’t felt joy, acceptance, and love like this since the first time he kissed Rarity, yet somehow, this was even better, even more elating.

They kissed for what felt like an eternity, until either ran out of breath. As they separated, a single strand of saliva trailed from eithers’ bottom lip.

Sweetie-Belle respected the moment, and quietly pouted; she was very jealous that Twilight was the one that got to kiss Spike, but nonetheless, she stayed put. Zecora chuckled at the expression.

“Does this mean y-” Twilight started to ask, but was shushed by Spike putting a finger to her lips as he stood up. He wiped his teary face, and genuinely smiled for the first time in days.

“Spike the Dragon, our Hero, how does it feel? To finally not be pseudo-loved, but to be loved for real?” Zecora asked with a smile.

“It… It feels great. It’s a feeling I never got with Rarity. I’m… I’m glad you guys helped me. I’m so glad I didn’t die. I see that there is more, and now I see that I’m not just a Hero… I’m a normal person, like anyone else. Capable of love, and… I appreciate you all, so much.” Spike said with a smile.

“What is our next course of action, my liege?” Spike asked, kneeling to Princess Twilight with a playful smile.

“At ease, soldier. We must now figure out how we wish to undo your exile.” Twilight said with a giggle.

Sweetie-Belle trotted up and hugged Spike from behind. She gave him a small peck on the neck.

“Glad you’re back to normal, Spike.” Sweetie-Belle said quickly.

“About that undoing your exile thing though… Twilight, you said there aren’t many cases of exile, right? You said redemption was pretty much our only chance?” Sweetie-Belle asked.

“Correct.” Twilight replied. Sweetie-Belle hummed in thought. Spike laid back in the grass, staring at the moonlit sky. This night seemed to go on forever.

“Twilight, do you have any idea where my armor might be, by chance?” Spike asked.

“It’s up on display in my castle. Why do you ask?” Twilight queried.

Spike breathed fire calmly into the sky, creating a nice orange glow. He stopped after a while, as the black smoke left his mouth.

“Just curious.” Spike said. “My cape and weapons there too?” he asked.

Twilight nodded.

“I see.” Spike said, closing his eyes to the moonlit sky as he enjoyed the presence of his new home. He had said he had no home, but he knew now that that was not true. His home was with any of these three. They were his home. He sure did love home…

“Twilight, you mentioned that Spike could do something similar to Discord, but I wonder… Just how viable is such a small amount of record?” Zecora said, in reference to the fact that there are barely any cases of exile.

“She raises an excellent point, y’know.” Spike said,

“I don’t think there is a way that this could be done as it is “meant”; perhaps we should undo his exile with a new precedent.” Zecora said.

“What do you propose then, Zecora?” Sweetie-Belle asked.

Zecora grew a smile, as she was sure her plan would work.

“Although this would not usually be my endeavor, this is a method that I find myself to favor.” Zecora said with a small chuckle. Spike listened intently, his eyes still closed, as Twilight and Sweetie-Belle watched her intently.

“First, we remind the citizens of Spike’s tremendous charity; then we go ahead and expose the slandering mare we know as Rarity; to seal the deal, we can tell the story of Spike’s recently-lived tragedy; finally, the citizens of Ponyville will be aware of their own foolish naivety.” Zecora said.

Spike chuckled, then began laughing out loud. All eyes fell on him, in a confused-interest.

“Okay, first off, that is a brilliant idea Zecora. I’d love to expose that traitorous woman.” Spike said in between giggles.

“But second, holy crap! How do you manage to keep up that rhyme thing? Seriously, it’s impressive!” Spike laughed. Zecora smiled and bowed.
“I’m glad someone appreciates it; my people do it to keep us on our wit.” Zecora said with a smile.

“How fascinating. So, when should we start preparing for my return?” Spike asked.

“Why not now? It’s the dead of night, and nobody’ll be up to question us moving around.” Sweetie-Belle proposed.

“Agreed. Shall we decide on what to do then?” Twilight proposed.

“Personally, I’ll organize Spike’s several deeds for presentation and write some letters to the other Princesses and my brother to attend an imperative ceremony.” Twilight offered.

“I’ll retell Spike’s Exile Aftermath. I lived it all too well…” Sweetie-Belle said.

Spike’s face grew hard, as he finally stood up from his relaxed position. “That means I’ll expose Rarity. I’ll sneak back into the house and retrieve those love-letters the two mares have been writing.” Spike said.

“Spike, you don’t have to-” Twilight began, but Spike interrupted her.

“No. I want to do this. She’s gonna realize she her fuck-up with me, because of me. I’ll have it be no other way.” Spike said adamantly.

Twilight nodded, understanding his determination.

“In that case, the conclusion and persuasion is what I will do; don’t screw this up companions, we may not get a chance two.” Zecora said. The other three nodded in agreeance.

“Twilight, while you’re gathering stuff for the ceremony, could you do me a favor and grab my belongings? Something tells me that Spike The Hero is coming back.” Spike said in a confident tone, donning a toothy smile.

The two mares and the zebra smiled at Spike’s statement.

“That’s what I like to hear. Let’s do this right, guys! Let’s split up; I’ll go with Spike to Rarity’s, Zecora and Twilight, you guys need to scour Spike’s records for all his latest and greatest good deeds.” Sweetie-Belle said.

“Guys, be careful. If I’m not with you, and you two are seen…” Twilight said.

“What? Spike was the only royal-guard in Ponyville, what’s the worst that could happen?” Sweetie-Belle asked.

“About that… Celestia was worried that I’d be sneaking Spike around after, since we’re so closely-knit. She said as a Princess I couldn’t really be accommodating him as an exile, and as such, she did assign small squads of royal-guard to Ponyville in Spike’s place Even worse, Shining-Armor offered his own men, and his corps isn’t just some run-of-the-mill guard. Her excuse was that she couldn’t leave my small kingdom unprotected, which I suppose is alright… The problem is though, as Spike is an exile who “threatens” public-safety, they’re meant to apprehend and subdue Spike on sight if he’s within premises. So if they see you, this could cause extreme complications.” Twilight informed.

“What? They thought some run-of-the-mill soldiers could hold my place? Haha, they wouldn’t’ve stood a chance against the dragon that attacked recently.” Spike said, rubbing his nose.

Twilight bopped him in the nose playfully. “Now, now, let’s not get cocky.” Twilight chuckled. “Besides, these ones were part of Shining Armor’s Crystal Empire unit; you didn’t think he’d leave his little sister ill-protected, did you? If you get out-numbered, this could actually go bad, so just be careful.” She informed.

Spike chuckled nervously and rubbed the back of his head. “No kidding. Shining Armor’s training regimes are vigorous! Those soldiers aren’t a joke then.” Spike said.

“Exactly. So stay to the shadows, don’t get seen. If any alarms are raised, including by the denizens of Ponyville, then we’re a bit screwed.” Twilight said.

“So don’t get seen, infiltrate Rarity’s, extract incriminating evidence, and then where do we meet?” Sweetie-Belle asked.

“The stage in the center of Ponyville; we’ll begin to set up there once everyone has gathered.” Twilight said.

There was a silence as the mood of preparedness settled in.

“So… I guess it is time to go.” Zecora said, starting off.

“Yeah… Good luck everybody. And be careful Spike. You too Sweetie-Belle.” Twilight said, joining Zecora.

“Good luck to you two as well.” Sweetie-Belle said.

Spike smiled and began to walk off with Sweetie-Belle. “Good luck everyone!” he said, waving.

As all walked off, two pairs in different directions, the shadowy moonlight casted a glow on their faces. The smiles were now gone and replaced with determined and focused frowns, their brows furrowed. Only two things lay on their mind: Expose Rarity; Redeem Spike.

Sub-Chapter 3: A Hero’s Return

Twilight and Zecora had just entered Ponyville and were trotting down the quiet, empty streets. They passed the occasional pony here-and-there, but it was mostly empty. When they arrived to Twilight’s castle, they noticed royal-guards standing outside. However, these ones were clad in a pure-white, crystal-like armor and seemed to be of a different standard: Shining Armor’s special personal corps, no doubt.

Twilight approached them, followed closely by Zecora. The royal guards all slammed the butt of their halberds onto the ground and saluted.
“At ease, soldiers.” Twilight ordered. They all dropped their stiff stances, yet maintained a rather professional and militaristic air.

“Where’ve you been, ma’am? The whole town was afraid you deserted after the exile of your Champion.” One spoke.

“I would never abandon my people. Now, soldier, I demand that you answer a couple of questions.” Twilight said.

“Of course, my liege.” The soldier agreed.

“You are part of my brother’s corps, no?” Twilight asked. He nodded.

“How many units did he assign here?” Twilight asked.

“About 35 of us, including the five of us here. The others are on patrol.” He informed in a matter-of-fact manner. Twilight gasped with a wide mouth.

“He assigned seventy percent of his own corps here?! What in the…!” Twilight said in disbelief.

“Yep. Shining Armor was too worried about you. He said even though Spike would probably still protect the ville, he couldn’t take any chances. And so, here we are, ripped away from our families because of your damn dragon.” The soldier said with a hint of hostility. Twilight giggled nervously and swallowed.

She put her hoof on his shoulder. “Don’t worry. You’ll have the true plague to blame soon, and then you’ll be able to return. This, I promise you, soldier. Just sit tight.” Twilight reassured. The soldiers all looked at her in a suspicious manner.

“Anyways boys, respect my privacy. My colleague here and I are about to work on a sensitive project. You screw this up, and you’ll be here longer than you want to be, trust that.” Twilight said as she trotted past the guards.

“She’s up to something, alright. Think we should check?” one guard asked.

“Dude, what? Fuck that, I wanna go home! My kids ain’t gonna take care of themselves! Let her work.” Another guard said in an annoyed manner. The others nodded.

“Fair point. How long till we get to have some rest?” The guard asked.

The other gave a heavy sigh and stared off into the moonlight. “I’d say at least another fifteen hours…”

[With Spike and Sweetie-Belle…]

Spike and Sweetie-Belle ducked behind a gardening fence.

“Sheesh, they’re everywhere! We’ll never get anywhere like this!” Sweetie-Belle complained.

“Yeah, no kidding!” Spike said, peeking over to get a plan set. There were currently four guards standing around, and two headed down the corner they needed to get to.

“I think the only way through is combat, as much as I’d rather not hurt my own.” Spike said.

“Also for the sake of the action, plot, and reaching word-count, right?” Sweetie-Belle asked.

Spike looked at her with a very confused look and a raised brow. Sweetie-Belle shrugged.

“Guess I’m still the only one who sees the Fourth Wall, huh?” Sweetie-Belle asked rhetorically.

“… I’m gonna just ignore you and hope you’re not going mentally-ill, Sweetie-Belle.” Spike chuckled.

“Right. What’s your plan?” Sweetie-Belle asked.

Spike dug into his tight under-armor and removed a mask. He put it on. It gave him an ominous look and only showed his eyes and nose.

“What was once supposed to be an extreme-weather facemask is now one to conceal identity. The plan is: I’ll either sneak past them successfully over the rooftops and distract them with a few ominous noises, or I’ll fail this entirely and then incapacitate them. Either way, watch for the signal, and only come when I tell you, clear?” Spike said.

“Why use the facemask if you’re probably gonna knock them out anyway?” Sweetie-Belle asked.

Spike shrugged. “I’d feel bad just knocking them out, since they likely wouldn’t take me seriously since I’m kind of an idol to the Guard and all.” Spike said.

“But they’re armed, Spike. What if they show no mercy since you’re just some shady stranger?” Sweetie-Belle asked, worried. “After all, you’re still injured! What’ll happen if we have another incident like tha-” Sweetie-Belle asked, but Spike cut her short but putting his finger to her lips and shushing her.

“I’ll be fine. These guys won’t play dirty, and I’m much more skilled than them, even if they were trained by Shining Armor himself.” Spike said. “At least, I hope I am.” He added on in his mind.

“If you say so… But if things get icky, I’m stepping in, clear?” Sweetie-Belle insisted.

“Heard and received. I’m moving, stay put, keep your eyes on me.” Spike said, crouch-running to the side of a nearby building.

He grabbed a piece of loose brick and tugged himself up to the pipe extending from it. He climbed up the pipe skillfully and swiftly, landing on its roof. He stayed low, and focused on the soldiers, waiting for his moment to move.

“Well, apparently we’re here because of that Hero. You know, Spike? That dragon guy?” one of the guards spoke.

“We’re his replacement? He’s the reason we’re here? Oh, goddammit, I didn’t get ripped from home for this shit.” Another guard replied, annoyed.

Spike winced as he leaned just over the edge, listening in.

“Come on, let’s continue the patrol. Only more than a dozen hours of this crap before rest time.” A guard said, walking away, as three others followed. Spike realized they were heading down the lane that Rarity’s place was on.

“Oh crap, gotta move quick!” Spike thought. He broke into a sprint across the roof and jumped over to the next one, doing a skillful roll to break his fall. He sprinted again and jumped to the pole of another building, swinging down upon it. He then put his feet against the wall as he slid down, and then jumped over to the building in front of the guards. However, as he put foothold on the building, the brick gave way and collapsed, causing Spike to crash into the ground. The six guards all immediately turned towards him in confusion.

“Fucking poorly-built buildings man… Goddammit.” Spike cursed under his breath, picking himself up. He had four of the guards in front of him, and two in the back. He looked back between them awkwardly.

“Identify yourself, this instant!” one of the guards yelled. Spike figured just from the way he spoke that he was fairly new to the guard. Spike figured he’d get his pseudo-arrogance on; acting as such was always such great fun.

Spike nonchalantly shrugged and smirked. “Oh, y’know. Just the Royal-Guard’s cavalry.” He said, swishing his tail back and forth. Thankfully, it had grown non-proportionally with the rest of his body, and was now quite hard to notice in the night.

“What? Identify yourself now, or we will be forced to apprehend.” The royal-guards spoke, holding forth their spears and halberds.

“Hope Shining Armor trained you guys well, because you’re about to need it.” Spike said, rubbing his nose cockily.

“Who the hell does this guy think he is? Alright, that was your last chance, buddy! It’s six on one guys, get him!” a royal-guard spoke.

Two charged from the front. Both slashed with their halberds. Spike seamlessly jumped, ducked, and rolled over the two’s attacks swiftly, and stood behind them. They turned around, mesmerized by his speed.

Spike playfully tapped their helmets. “Gotta be quicker than that, guys. Work on those reflexes.” Spike advised.

“Wha-?” one started, but both were quickly knocked unconscious as Spike bashed their helmets against each other. They dropped, knocked out.

“This guy isn’t run-of-the-mill. Careful guys.” A guard spoke, as the other four surrounded Spike in a square. One charged at him with the spear. Spike ran at the spear, slightly unnerving him. The guard nervously stabbed at Spike, but Spike slightly lifted his arm and the spear went under his arm, between his armpit.

He ran down the length of the spear, grabbed the handle, and turned the spear up vertically, bashing it into the guard’s head, knocking him back. Spike grabbed the spear and held it by the blade, smiling.

“Nervousness isn’t something you’re allowed to have in battle. Also, never hold a spear so far by the end, or you can easily be disarmed like you just were.” Spike said in a matter-of-fact tone.

He then swung the handle of the spear into the guard’s neck, incapacitating him as he slid across the ground.

“Come on guys? Is this who they sent in replacement of Spike? You guys couldn’t protect Princess Twilight if it depended on ponykind.” Spike taunted. The other three ran at him with their weapons born.

Spike chuckled. These guys had to be the less-skilled of Shining Armor’s corps. Either that, or he was just so good that he saw right through them.

Spike ran at the center guard and used his wrist to block the pole of the halberd, effectively stopping the blade from swinging down upon him.

The two approached from the side. Spike used his other hand to tap the other halberd off-course, and skillfully positioned himself so that the final guard’s halberd hit the dagger on the back of his waist, effectively blocking it.

The air thickened as the guards realized this ‘creature’ was way out of their league.

Spike with quickly disarmed all three of them, as the weapons fell to the floor.

“Game over. You guys need to go back to the academy; you’re nothing but cannon-fodder at this rate. I like the effort though, nobody tried to run.” Spike said truthfully.

[Everything goes slow-motion briefly…]

All three began to punch at Spike, but a pure-white magical aura glowed around Spike. His eyes flashed an emerald green, and the magical aura compressed around his arms. Suddenly, a large blast of air was released, and Spike acted quicker than the soldiers could react:

He punched the soldier on the right of him right in the gut, denting his armor and incapacitating him on impact. He then quickly elbowed the soldier behind him, giving the same effect. Finally, he uppercut the one dead-center, knocking him out as well.

All three guards were taken out nearly simultaneously, as they all slowly began to fly off in different directions at Spike’s powerful attacks.
Spike removed his mask and placed it back into his under-armor. He took a breath and held his hand on his hip, looking away from the guards still flying through the air.

[Slow-Motion ceases...]

As normal speed returned, three crashes were heard as Spike smiled. The three guards crashed into separate walls, sliding to the ground, unconscious. Spike shot his fist in the air.

“Oh yeah! Another score for badass Spike!” Spike quietly cheered, excited by his combat-finesse.

Didn’t even break a sweat. And not a crazy amount of noise made either, hopefully nobody woke up.” Spike said. He looked around at the houses. Windows were still dark and void of light, and the silence of night was as strong as ever. Spike released a relieved sigh.

He made a waving gesture with his hands. Sweetie-Belle immediately trotted over.

“You’re all good? Not hurt? They didn’t get to touch you, did they?” Sweetie-Belle asked, examining him. She tightened the white-bandage over his abdomen.

“I’m fine Sweetie-Belle, really! I told you I’d be fine. I am a honed Hero, after all.” Spike said, dusting his shoulder off and chuckling sheepishly at Sweetie-Belle’s nursing.

“Good to hear. Your house is just down the lane, isn’t it?” Sweetie-Belle asked.

“Rarity’s house… And yeah, it sure is.” Spike said in correction, as they both walked down the lane in the silent night.

“Shouldn’t you uh… Do something about those bodies? What if some other guards come by and find them?” Sweetie-Belle asked.

“Ah, it’ll be fine. They’re still breathing, and they’re not too hurt, so they’ll shrug it off and just look for me. Besides, hiding the bodies will take too long, and dawn might break soon. We gotta hurry.” Spike said.

“Right, right. Alright, let’s go then.” Sweetie-Belle agreed, as they both went up the path to the house.

Spike stopped at the door. “Oh fuck. Know what I just realized?” Spike asked Sweetie-Belle.

“What?” Sweetie-Belle asked.

“I don’t have my damn keys. Ugh!” Spike groaned. Sweetie-Belle laughed.

“All good. Hand me your dagger.” Sweetie-Belle said. Spike shrugged and unsheathed his dagger, handing it to her.

Sweetie-Belle jammed the point into the lock and precisely played with it as a series of shclunks and clicks were heard. After a few minutes, the door clicked open and swung open slowly.

“Where the hell did you learn that??” Spike asked, amazed at her skillful burglary ability.

“Oh, you’d be surprised what the girls and I learn on our Crusades.” Sweetie-Belle chuckled.

“Fair. Alright, scour everything. Anything incriminating you can find is fair game: gifts, letters, whatever. And remember, if we’re caught, the ultimate excuse is that I still have rights to the house, which is technically true. Let’s split up, I’ll go upstairs, you search things down here. And search thoroughly, they’re sneaky ones.” Spike whispered.

Sweetie-Belle simply nodded. Spike put back on his facemask and crept up the stairs. He quickly searched each of the rooms, memories coming back to him. He shook his head and furrowed his brows.

As he finally searched all of the things, he found that he had little to work with. He heaved a heavy sigh as he realized he’d have to search where the jackpot likely laid; their bedroom. He gulped, as he slowly cracked open the door. He saw the familiar purple-mane, and a red-coated mare next to it. Spike’s fists clenched hard.

Whatever shame or guilt Spike thought he’d feel from exposing Rarity like this was now absolutely gone. Though he knew not the circumstances they were sleeping in, or why, he knew that seeing those two together, despite all he tried for, boiled his blood.

He crept very slowly and very quietly over to Rarity’s nightstand. He slowly went through each drawer quietly. Finally, he found some red-hearted envelopes. Taking a quick-look through them, he nodded, content. Just as he closed it, he accidentally got up too fast and knocked the lamp over.

“Shit!” Spike hissed, as the lamp hit the soft carpet on the ground. He stood silent. Rarity turned, but Cherry-Top was quiet, still in slumber. Rarity turned her head and faced Spike. She was still asleep, but her face looked pained and stricken with guilt and grief.

“Sp-Spike…! Don’t leave, please…!” Rarity groaned in her sleep. Spike was stunned for a second. His heart thumped at their closeness, and he could see the emotion on her face. She really was hurt by what she did… Maybe…

“No!” Spike said, shaking his head. It was always that cuteness and beauty that tripped him up. She fucked up, not him. What kind of kiss-up would he be if he took her back after all this!? “After she cheated so many times? Likely more than the three times I’ve caught her? What the hell are you eve thinking, Spike?!” Spike scolded himself angrily.

“I-I’m… I’m sorry… Spike…” Rarity mumbled in her slumber, clenching up in the sheets, as her breathing became slightly irregular.

Spike smiled bitterly. He brought his face close to her sleeping face. His smile stayed, as he brought their faces closer, and closer, and closer…

…

…

…

“You will be.” Spike softly whispered, the bitter smile on his face being replaced by a frown, as he backed off slightly. “Nobody is ever sorry, then goes back and do what they promised not to an additional two times. See you at the stage.” Spike whispered, as he stood and quietly replaced the lamp, relieved that nobody was woken by the ordeal.

Spike turned and exited the room, descending the stairs. He found Sweetie-Belle still searching hard.

He tapped the wall softly instead of calling to her. Sweetie-Belle looked at him. He held up the red envelopes as well as some crumpled letters and notes. He then leaned his head to the door, signaling that it was time to leave. Sweetie-Belle nodded. She abruptly tossed the dagger at him that he left with her. He caught it skillfully and then frowned at Sweetie-Belle for being reckless.

She shrugged and smiled sheepishly. He sighed, shook his head, and simply walked to the exit, sheathing the dagger onto the back of his waist again. Sweetie-Belle followed, and they slowly clicked the door shut, leaving everything as it was.

“Okay, that went pretty flawlessly, actually. Didn’t think it would-” Sweetie-Belle started, as they were interrupted by the sound of chatter. They looked off and noticed guards inspecting the incapacitated bodies while others began to search the lane.

“… be so easy…” Sweetie-Belle finished. Spike grabbed her hoof and started running.

“Quick, we can’t let them catch us!” Spike said frantically.

“Hey, you! Both of you, stop!” a guard yelled, spotting them.

“Aw, shit!” Spike cursed, turning the corner, Sweetie-Belle right next to him.

They ran through the streets for several minutes, but Sweetie-Belle began to tire; she slowed noticeably.

“Sweetie-Belle, the mayor’s stage is around the corner; hide in the props booth, I’ll join you shortly, okay?” Spike ordered, his speech slightly muffled due to the mask over his head.

She nodded, panting and out of breath. They hit the corner and Sweetie-Belle disappeared around it, as Spike stood his ground. These soldiers were more quick and alert than the others and strategically surrounded Spike within seconds.

“Give yourself up, and this will be easy.” One guard spoke. The same pure-white magical aura enveloped Spike’s body again, and his eyes flashed that emerald green.

“Don’t think so.” Spike said, before he appeared in front of the guard. Just as Spike punched, the man blocked it with the flat side of his halberd. “Oh, you guys are a bit quicker than the last ones.” Spike commented. “Not every day that someone can keep up with my speed.” He said in a chuckle.

The guard slashed, but Spike ducked, kicking the halberd out of his hands. The halberd got him slightly, creating a slash on his back, but it was nothing so serious as to hinder his combat-ability. The guard prepared for hand-to-hand, his weapon now gone.

Spike ran at the guard. He punched with his forehoof, but Spike slid under the pony, grabbed his under-belly, lifted him, and then smashed headfirst into the ground, incapacitating him.

Spike heard clopping behind him; another guard approaching.

“He’s done.” Spike thought. He brought his elbow back behind him in a twirl, followed by his opposite arm in a fist, two-piecing the guard into the ground, incapacitating him with the powerful and unexpectedly swift combo.

“Uh-oh! REINF-!” the guard tried to yell for help, but Spike quickly approached him and chopped his neck, as he too, dropped.

Spike dispersed the magical aura, breathing only slightly heavily. He removed the mask and wiped his forehead.

“I hope Twilight and Zecora are having an easier time.” Spike thought, backing away slowly, as he broke into a jog for the stage’s prop room backstage…

[With Twilight and Zecora…]

Both of the equine creatures searched through the several records Twilight kept of Spike; even the censored ones of his more violent protections; they would need all the evidence they could get.

After a few minutes of searching, Twilight deemed it to be enough.

“Alright Zecora, that’s time. Allow me to write the letters, and then we can depart. Hopefully Spike and Sweetie-Belle didn’t get into any conflict.” Twilight said.

“I had no idea that that little dragon was so capable; the dangers of not having him on our side is unmistakable. I am happy that I it is un-exiling that in which I will partake; exiling him in the first place was already a mistake.” Zecora said, reading over some of the incredible files.

She read over a censored one, in which Spike single-handedly destroyed a cult of demons headed to Equestria. The odds of survival were 10 to 1, but somehow he pulled through.

Another censored one was defeating an enemy army of about 1,000 griffons with just 4 other skilled Royal-Guards with him. This one was quite gruesome, and they had a hard time cleaning up, it says. Nonetheless, his service was undeniable.

The final one Zecora read was quite interesting… Spike personally took it upon himself to travel into the fiery depths of Tartarus because of rumors of Tirek growing power. Luckily, Spike caught him before the Elements of Harmony were inevitably needed, and in an epic struggle, defeated the demon-heir. He returned with a newly learned possession of magic from the now slain demon; apparently, he was able to harness it and purify it, turning it from the blackish-red color to the pure-white one he now has. Although he can’t use it like how unicorns do, he can use to physically change himself, if only for a brief period of time at the cost of stamina.

“So that’s where he got his magical ability; I wondered how that dragon manifested his magical fertility.” Zecora thought to herself, reading through the immense amount of files they gathered.

(What’s this? Ideas for prequel-stories? Huhhhmmm…)

“What will you put on the letters; exactly how will you get such high authorities to stop their endeavors?” Zecora questioned.

“Easy. They’ll come if I call the meeting and presentation as a national crisis. Although that’s stretching a bit far, it’s the best way to get them to come ASAP before this all falls apart.” Twilight said.

“I see, I see. That is indeed, not a bad plan, my liege. Whenever you are ready, we may leave.” Zecora said, as she tossed back on her brown cloak.

After a few minutes, Twilight sealed the final letter and sent it off.

“Alright, quickly Zecora; we only have until the break of dawn to set this up.” Twilight said, swiftly trotting out of the room. She was followed by Zecora.

As they exited the castle, the guards stiffened up and saluted. Twilight gave orders to one of the guards.

“When dawn breaks, wake the ville. Tell them there is a national crisis to be discussed and everyone is expected at the stage within the hour of the break of dawn. Are you clear?” Twilight asked.

The soldier saluted again. “Yes, my liege. It will be done.” The guard said.

“Excellent. Inform the rest of your guard. I want it done, and I want it done right.” Twilight said in an authoritative-tone, walking off with Zecora, carrying the files in a backpack.

[Some Time Later, At The Stage…]

Spike and Sweetie-Belle sat in the room. Spike was on a stool, his back hunched over, while Sweetie-Belle nursed the slash that lay on his back.

“Sweetie-Belle, really, it’s nothing serious; it’ll heal in a few days on its own.” Spike said.

“Nuh-uh. What if it gets infected or something, hm?” Sweetie-Belle said, dipping a white bandage in a dab of disinfecting alcohol. She then wrapped the bandage around Spike’s body, covering the wound as Spike hissed from the burning of the alcohol.

“All done.” Sweetie-Belle said. Spike stood and stretched.

“Man, those guys better hurry. Break of dawn’s probably only a few hours away.” Spike thought out-loud.

“Maybe they’re just-…” Sweetie-Belle began, but both fell silent as they heard clopping against the wooden stage.

Both listened intently as they heard murmurs.

“Think they’re more guards?” Sweetie-Belle asked quietly.

“If so, it’s only two… Doesn’t sound like there could be more.” Spike said, his head against the door of the prop room.

“Shh!” Spike said, backing away, as they heard the clopping come towards them. He backed away and prepared for another scuffle.

The door creaked open…

“You guys! There you are!” Twilight said, seeing them backed off from the door.

“I don’t know what you guys did, but those guards are riled up!” Twilight said with a small giggle. “Spike, you got anything to do with this?” Twilight asked.

Spike removed his mask to speak more properly. “What, me? Pssh, nah.” Spike said with a small chuckle. “Just incapacitated a few.” He said, shrugging.

“Right… You didn’t hurt them too bad, did you?” Twilight asked with a hint of concern.

“Pssh, if Shining Armor trained them, then what I did was nothing. Your brother left me in the middle of a forest to find my way home once, y’know! And with not even a single thing but the clothes on my back! That guy…!” Spike said with in a tone of pseudo-annoyance.

“Right… Anyways guys, let’s begin setting up. Zecora, set up the poles around the perimeter: we want to keep everyone organized. Sweetie-Belle, you’re with me: we gotta set up displays and microphones, you know, presentation stuff. Spike, help with what you can, but just try to stay out of sight: if the guards catch you, this will turn icky real quick. Everyone got what they’re supposed to do?” Twilight asked. Everybody nodded with a simple “yes”.

“Alright then, let’s get to work guys. Only a few hours before the guards are set to inform the town. Hopefully the Princesses and my brother got the letters… Anyways, let’s make it happen!” Twilight said, clopping her hooves together, as they all exited the prop room, beginning work…

[Some Hours Later…]

All of them stood on the edge of the stage, watching the crack of dawn arise.

“Everything’s set up as it should, right guys?” Twilight asked.

Spike touched Twilight’s shoulder. “It’s fine, Twilight. We did what we could.” Spike reassured her.

They heard drums and bells off in the distance, making quite the racket.

“That’s time! Spike, get ready to hide.” Twilight warned.

Spike nodded, and backed into the recesses of the stage.

Twilight looked up, and noticed a large chariot flying in. It gracefully landed, and her brother as well as the three Princesses exited. They quickly joined Twilight, Sweetie-Belle, and Zecora upon the stage.

“Twilight, what is this of a national crisis? Has Queen Chrysalis returned? Is Discord up to his old ways? What is going on??” Princess Celestia asked feverishly and near-frantically. Calling a meeting for a national crisis was usually only for the utmost important of things.

“Take a rest, appreciate the beautiful day, Princess. It’ll surely be one to remember.” Twilight said to her with a big grin.

Celestia eyed her strangely. “I should hope that this isn’t a fluke, Princess Twilight Sparkle. If you’ve filed false reports, you will be punished: you understand this, right?” Princess Luna spoke in an authoritative tone.

“Yep.” Twilight nodded with a smile. The four figures left the stage and joined the arriving crowd that made space for them in the front.

People had begun to arrive at the stage in greater volume. Curious and anxious murmurs quickly filled the air, as guards surrounded the perimeter. Nearly the whole of Ponyville was present already.

Spike peeked from beyond the curtain. He scanned the crowd. Finally, he found her: Rarity was at the ceremony, alone… Cherry-Top was nowhere to be found.

“Makes my job easier.” Spike sighed. He figured that by moralistic code, he owed Cherry-Top no anger; she promised him nothing. Rarity however, promised him her undivided love and loyalty when they decided to be in a relationship: Rarity was his focus.

Twilight began to set up. She stood in front of the microphone and tapped it. Sweetie-Belle and Zecora stood on either side of her.
“If I may please have your attention!” Twilight said, as things silenced. A white-flash went off.

“Hold off on the pictures, please.” Twilight said quietly, before continuing.

“You have all been called here today to be the first to realize this national crisis.” Twilight began.

“Our Hero Spike was exiled two whole days ago. Now all of you may not realize it, but this is a national crisis at its finest. The Elements of Harmony can longer unite as easy as they once could. Have you taken into consideration what would happen if we were to get attacked at a time like this? Could you imagine the devastation? I may be powerful, but I can only do so much.” Twilight began.

“Allow me to ask you, citizens of Ponyville: why do you think Spike did what he did?” Twilight asked, waiting. She heard a myriad of confused, unorganized shouts.

“Sweetie-Belle, set it up.” Twilight said to her while they yelled a multitude of things at her. Sweetie-Belle used her magic to drop a white sheet from the roof of the stage. She then hit it with her magic, enveloping it.

“Quiet, quiet please!” Twilight called out, as the crowd simmered down.

“Among all of you, I heard many things: maybe he’s gone rogue, power gone to his head, and many negative connotations. But tell me, could you associate such a Hero as this with such negative thoughts?” Twilight asked, as pictures of Spike’s deeds began to play.

“Just a week ago, Spike risked his life for each and every one of you when he single-handedly confronted that dragon.” Twilight stated. The looks of hostility and disagreement now began to fade slightly.

Pictures of Spike’s triumphs played on the white screen in a collage/montage.

“Can we really forget all of this Hero’s Service over this past decade? Can you all really afford to lose such a Hero?” Twilight beckoned Spike over from beyond the curtains.

As Spike walked onto the stage and stood beside Twilight, gasps and murmurs arose like wildfire.

“She’s brought the exile into Ponyville!” one pony gasped.

“Twilight’s sure screwed up now! They’ll exile her too!” another pony sighed.

“Could you all really exile a face of such heroism? Of such valor, such loyalty? Could you possibly turn down such an innocent Hero with such gold intentions?” Twilight asked.

Celestia began to walk onto the stage to stop this and assert her authority, but Luna stopped her. She shook her head, denying her sister. Celestia stayed quiet and listened on instead.

“Sweetie-Belle?” Twilight said, stepping off the podium. Sweetie-Belle nodded, walking up onto it.

“Just hours after his Exile, his true heroism lived on! Held hostage by six bandits, this great hero impaled himself without a moment’s hesitation, all for me! Some pony that’s not even so well-known. His exact words after he did it, and was facing near-death?” Sweetie-Belle started. She pulled Spike closer and motioned over his bandaged wounds.

“You don’t understand what a Hero is, Sweetie-Belle. We don’t feel pain unless those we are destined to protect feel it. This is nothing but a flesh wound. You are mostly untouched, and as such, I am happy. A Hero is nothing more than an instrument, a tool, meant to protect and serve. I did just that. Whether or not I make it after this is inconsequential, as long as you are safe.” Sweetie-Belle recited. The crowd fell into a solemn silence.

“Could you deny such heroism?! Could you all really be as ignorant and hopeless as to turn down such potential? Surely, you couldn’t!” Sweetie-Belle said.

“You see, what you all fail to realize, and what our Hero once failed to realize, is this: he’s just like me, or you, or you, or even you! He has emotions too. As such, he’s not perfect. The real question is, what triggered his emotions to cause him to act this way? I believe it would be best for him to say it himself…” Sweetie-Belle finished, walking off the podium.

Spike swallowed hard. Sweetie-Belle patted his back, as we walked up to the front of the stage.

“As you all know, I have the honor of being the boyfriend of the most beautiful mare to walk this planet.” Spike began, speaking smoothly and soothingly, with a warm smile.

The crowd parted, and there was Rarity, at the very back. Her eyes opened wide at how instantaneously she was noticed. The perks (or disadvantage, in this case) of being engaged with a Hero, it would seem.

“Or so I thought.” Spike said, his smile disappearing. The crowd watched him intently, and Rarity’s feet shook in place.

Spike held up three red envelopes. “She was never mine alone, it would seem. Stuck on an old-mare, Rarity would systematically cheat on me regularly. Despite me having tried my hardest for her, it happened again and again. More times than I’ve caught her, it would seem. The evidence is right here.” Spike said, tossing the envelopes on the ground. Nobody moved for them, but the hearts and flirtatious comments upon them were obvious for all to see.

The crowd gave glares at Rarity.

“I loved her with all my heart. She was my everything. My exile speech? It was all about her. I lost her. I lost my battle with life, I thought, after I lost her. I had caught her three times prior to a few days before that exile speech. I figured that Third Time’s the Charm, and so, I kept trying. But when I saw her cheating for the fourth time in a row… Something snapped, and something broke. Something shattered. I knew from that moment on, that it was over.” Spike said. Rarity bowed her head in shame and embarrassment, as the crowd glared holes into her skin.

“Rarity.” Spike called. She looked at him with shiny eyes.

“Your trust was always trippin’ up. Your love was never living up. Always tried my best for you; fought through hell and the snow for you. Yet, this happens. I’m not doing this to shame you, and I’m not doing it because I hate you. I’m doing it, because I’ve learned something new about myself. I too, have emotion. I too, have desires. And my desire right now, is revenge for everything you did.” Spike said, as tears materialized on the corner of her eyes.

“We’re done, Rarity. You can run back to Cherry-Top. That house is yours now. I hope you enjoy it.” Spike said. Rarity’s lips trembled, but she refused to cry. The crowd sent her hostile glares.

“While under the depression and stress, I acted rashly whilst pursuing those demons. I apologize, Ponyville. I’m sorry, Princess Celestia. I’m sorry, Princess Luna. I’m sorry, Princess Cadence. Most of all, I’m sorry, Shining Armor, for disrespecting your teachings.” He said, bowing to each one, who simply smiled back in response.

He turned to Twilight, Sweetie-Belle, and Zecora. “Although this isn’t the time.” Spike began, speaking loud enough for those around him to hear.

“I’m grateful: thank you for things you say and do to keep me faithful. Thank you for the time you take to keep my heart from danger. Funny how three strangers stepped into my life and make all these changes, for the better.” Spike said.

He walked up to Twilight. In an instant, he brought their lips together, before pulling away. Twilight was stunned for a few seconds. “Thank you for everything you’ve done since my birth, Twilight.” He said.

Sweetie-Belle pouted, but Spike walked up to her too.

“Thank you for being real with me, and letting me know about Rarity. Thank you for being a good friend.” Spike said, as he cupped her chin, bringing her lips closer. As their lips met, Sweetie-Belle leaned into it, enjoying the short connection. As their lips glistened from the saliva, Sweetie-Belle smirked a bit and sent a small glance at Rarity, who watched the ordeal feeling jealous, despite her disloyalty.

Spike pulled away. Zecora looked off awkwardly, feeling left out. Spike walked over to Zecora and knelt. Zecora watched him intently.

“Thank you, Zecora, for agreeing to help me, an exiled person, even though we barely even associated over the past years. I feel like this is a relationship is one that will blossom.” Spike said. Zecora blushed heavily, as Spike brought their lips close.

Even though their kiss lasted short, Zecora’s heart fluttered, and she was speechless when she tried to speak. The Hero had sucked the confidence and outgoing-nature right out of her with that one.

The crowd cheered on stage at Spike’s actions. Maybe in a two-legged world, this would be scandalous, but here, it would seem not, since Spike was no longer engaged.

The crowd was slightly riled up by the actions taking place.

Spike waved his hand in the still-stunned Zecora’s face. “Earth to Zecora? We kinda need your summation now.” Spike said.

“O-oh… Um…” Zecora murmured and stuttered over to the podium. She cleared her throat.

“Heartbroken, defeated, depressed, and stricken with grief, our Hero’s only option seemed to be combat for relief. However, he would get too far ahead after a while; soon, before he really realized it, he was exiled. Even after the trial, his heroism was not in denial. Come now, citizens of Ponyville, do not be taciturn; give a hoot, a shout, a yell, if you want SPIKE THE HERO TO RETURN!” Zecora summated.

Shouts and cheers were heard. Spike was accepted without much trouble.

“Then with a happy heart, I will return Spike to his status. Zecora, if you would?” Twilight asked. Zecora entered the prop room, and rolled out with something.

As she stood aside, she saw it was an armor stand with Spike’s attire upon it. His armor, sword-sheathe, and most important, his royal-cape with the cutie mark of Twilight Sparkle. It was the very essence of his status. Besides the armor was a chest of his weapons. On top of it was his signature sword, crafted of the same jet-black metal that was designed for unimaginable cutting power.

“Spread your arms and stand tall, Hero. You’ve earned this.” Twilight said. Spike obeyed.

One by one, Twilight dressed Spike in the armor. She then sheathed the sword onto his back. Finally, she placed the cape on him, as he knelt and bowed.

“I have returned, Your Highness.” He said formally.

“At ease.” Twilight returned, as the crowd cheered.

All three of the girls that stood across from Spike smiled at him lewdly with knowing smirks.

"So..." Twilight began.

“So…?” Spike continued.

“Which one of us are you going to choose?” Sweetie-Belle asked, voicing Twi’s and her/Zecora’s question as well.

“Huh? Choose for what?” he asked, oblivious.

“Which one of us will you take with you to carry? Which one of us will you decide to marry?” Zecora asked.

“Oh? Why do I have to only choose one?” Spike asked, with a smirk.

Celestia made her way up onto the stage.

“We’ll talk later, gals.” Spike said, as Celestia beckoned him over.

“I personally declare Spike the Dragon not exiled! He is, in fact, our Champion again! He is, Spike The Hero!” Celestia said in high-spirits. While the crowd was busy cheering, she turned to Spike.

“Although, you must still do an outstanding act of redemption to be officially excused, Spike. Think you can handle that?” she asked.

“No problem. Evil bites around here every once in a while.” Spike chuckled.

…

…

…

As if on cue, something began to blot out the sunlight. The cheers and excited activity quieted down, as all eyes looked up. Something was flying in the sky.

“It can’t be… Didn’t I personally kill and bury that guy?” Spike said. True to his words, there was a large red dragon, descending towards the city.

“Everypony, run! Something’s coming!” Spike yelled. Everybody scattered.

*Smash!*

The dragon landed with a loud crash, quickly scanning the crowd. In an instant, he spotted Spike, and charged for him. The others fled. Just before he could smash into the stage, Spike jumped over the dragon agilely, unsheathing his sword.

“Whoa buddy, calm down there!” he said. The dragon, however, was quick. Before Spike could land, the dragon smacked him into the ground with his tail. While stunned, the dragon coiled its tail around Spike and suspended him in the air.

Coming face-to-face with Spike, the dragon let out a long, deafening roar that was so loud the ground shook. Spike’s cape flapped in the force of it.

“Holy shit, calm down buddy! What’s stuck up your tail?” Spike asked, in the dragon’s grip.

“Do I look familiar to you, dragonslayer…?” the dragon asked bitterly.

Spike looked him up and down. “Yeah, but you’re a lot bigger than the last one I put in the dirt.” Spike said nonchalantly. The others gathered and watched the ordeal.

“So it’s true! YOU are the one who slayed my brother!” the dragon roared furiously. It increased the pressure of its tail on Spike, as Spike felt his own armor crush him.

“Agchk!” Spike squelched, losing air. “You will pay for your treachery!” the dragon growled.

“Hands off, monster!” Twilight yelled, charging up a beam on her horn. The other Princesses and Shining Armor joined her, as their magic all transferred into one large ball of colors.

Suddenly, the ball fired a beam at the dragon.

“Trivial.” The dragon muttered, as he released a single ball of flame that consumed the beam and exploded, blasting back the five authoritative figures that opposed it.

It squeezed Spike harder. “Your victory was short-lived, young dragon. To kill one of your own… you sicken me.” The dragon spoke.

Spike’s felt his bones start to weaken and grind against one another. He groaned in pain, losing more air.

“How fragile…” the dragon grinned.

“Wait!” a voice yelled.

“Wouldn’t you rather take something dear to him, like he did to you? Someone like me?” the voice said. As Spike looked down, he saw Rarity. His eyes widened.

“Graaah!” Spike yelled, mustering his strength and removing one arm from the dragon’s coiled grip.

“R-Rarity…! D-don’t…!” Spike squelched out, still having the life crushed out of him as he attempted to free himself.

The dragon smiled in amusement at Rarity’s offer and Spike’s sudden increase in effort.

“What a splendid idea. I can tell from his increase in struggle that you must mean much to him. Come then, mare.” The dragon beckoned, placing the palm of his hand onto the ground.

“No, Rarity, wai-!” Spike began, but the dragon hurled him into a building. Spike crashed into the building, as debris fell over him. He pushed the debris off, and fell onto the ground, coughing in pain. Before anyone could make a move, the dragon seized Rarity.

“Dragon, attention on me.” The large dragon spoke.

“If you wish to see this mare be anything other than my midnight snack, you will come to my den in the mountains and face me. Bring whatever and whoever you want, all the more food for me. Last one alive wins the mare. Are my conditions clear?” the dragon asked.

“The only thing that’s clear is that I’m about to kick your ass if you leave with any of my ponies!” Spike said, brushing himself off.

“Heh. Talk tough at my den, big guy. I’ll eat you over there later. Will you save her, or will you let her die?” the dragon asked rhetorically, flying off with Rarity in his grasp.

Spike walked over to his sword on the ground, sheathing it again. He watched the dragon fly off, thinking of his exact next move.

“I guess that’s her way of saying sorry, huh?” Twilight said.

Spike nodded in agreeance. Sweetie-Belle and Zecora trotted over.

“Spike, are you okay? Were you hurt by the fray?” Zecora asked.

“Wasn’t much of a battle there… God that sucked. No time to lose, I suppose.” Spke said, picking up his sword on the ground and sheathing it and already preparing to depart.

“So you three were in cohootz with the exile, hm?” Celestia asked, as she walked up to check on Spike herself.

“Whaat? Pssh, nah.” Twilight said with a small chuckle. Celestia gave a hopeless smile and rolled her eyes.

“What will you do, Hero?” Celestia questioned.

“Do you even have to ask?” Spike questioned with a big grin. “I’ll do what I always have. Protect my people.” Spike said.

“And he’s not alone this time.” Twilight said, as Sweetie-Belle and Zecora stepped up too.

“Then go, Hero and company. Let that dragon know why he shouldn’t mess with ponykind.” Celestia ordered.

“With pleasure, my liege.” Spike said, walking off, as the others followed.

“Shouldn’t we plan first?” Sweetie-Belle inquired. Spike playfully flicked her nose.

“Rule number 1 of being a Hero, Sweetie-Belle: the only plan is protection and justice. We depart now.” Spike said, as they began to walk over the hills towards the mountains on the outskirts of Ponyville.

“GO GET ‘EM, SPIKE THE HERO!” one pony yelled, seeing them off. With that, the whole crowd went wild, cheering the Hero and his companions on with good luck and wishes and cheers.

Spike grew an extra-determined smile, as he unsheathed the black sword for it to gleam into the sunlight, as a symbol of sure-success. The crowd cheered on. Celestia smiled warmly at Spike’s return.

“Our Hero… He’s back.” Celestia hummed to herself.

“Even if all odds seemed against you, and life seemed finished, the worst thing I could’ve done was shut myself way. Twilight, Sweetie-Belle, and Zecora showed me that life is never truly over until it is. One little heartbreak isn’t the end of the line, even if you did spend a great chunk of your life trying to avoid it.

It’s just as I once stated…

‘You have to take chances in life. Will you step, or will you leap? Will you undershoot, overshoot, or hit it just right? You never know, and that’s part of life.’ And part of life is also being absolutely ready to accept those consequences, not just say that you’re ready.

I learned something valuable today… Something that I will keep with me for life…

I learned that… A Hero IS Fit For Love.”
~ Spike, The Hero

Author's Note

Before anyone asks, I know I ended it in an iffy way, but this is NOT the end of the story. We are near though, maybe 2 more chapters.

Welp, not much for me to say here... Don't forget to R&R! Authors love that! Enjoy your night.

~Mega T22 out! ^-^