The Village Factotum

Chapters

The Winter Passage
Warm Welcome Part 1
Warm Welcome Part 2
Warm Welcome Part 3
Warm Welcome Part 4
Warm Welcome Part 5
Warm Welcome Part 6

The Winter Passage

"I need to be severely lacking in exercise if this mountain is giving me trouble. I can't envy pegasi more than the fact they travel with ease." He adjusted the pack on his back and continued through the animal trail leading towards the mountain top.

It took more effort than natural as it felt like boulders were being put on top of him with each step. It didn't help that he had an extra layer of clothes on his body. He realized that waiting to get to the destination would have been the best course of action before wearing them, but it was the fact that he had no room in his pack left that caused him to wear it all. As he came climbed above a less than sturdy looking formation of rocks; he stopped to look down at his destination.

"Finally, they weren't kidding when they said this place was practically impossible to reach. At least not without some serious effort on the climber. Still, to think that the further you go the harsher the weather. I haven't seen any pegasi in the area, and it sure isn't anywhere near winter for this kind of weather to be here."

The sight below was full of nothing other than snow, clouds, and winds that could hinder even a dragon. Everywhere he looked in front of him was covered in white and the sudden drop in temperature made him feel less of an idiot for wearing the extra clothing. He took a look behind him and saw rocks, trees, and rivers dotting the landscape.

"Strange weather we're having lately…" he said before breaking into a half-hearted laugh. "I need to come in contact with somepony soon otherwise; I might go crazy, and start having a conversation with myself."

Gathering his thoughts for a moment, he set about making notes of the change in weather, the trails he used to arrive at the top and the possible path he would use to get to the winter valley below. The map he brought had only gone as far as the forest surrounding the mountain itself; nopony had made a proper map of the local area for fear of the strange weather. Pegasi had tried to clear it several times before, but it had proven harder than the Everfree and deadlier than the Frozen North. Not even when unicorns had come to help did the weather budge even for a moment. It was unrelenting to all who tried to seek passage into the valley. All of this was the reason he had been hired to attempt crossing the freezing barrier.

"Deadly as all this seems at least I got paid in advance, though, I got the feeling it was more out of pity for dying young… Nah, I'm over thinking it… right?"

Climbing down the snow-covered rock face was perilous, but manageable for him in the end. Once at the bottom, he was pelted by icy winds and his vision was pure white. The only way he knew where to go was thanks to his thermal vision that would normally be useless in any other situation. It was simple enough to switch over from regular to thermal only that it left his eyes dry if used for too long. The path he followed was complicated, and he would make turns upon turns avoiding dead trees and snow covered boulders. He walked for what seemed like hours following the small traces of heat left behind by whatever made them.

It wasn't until the light died down in the sky that he lost the heat trail at the entrance to a small cave. It was big enough for a regular sized pony, but it was a tight fit for one of his size. He had to walk on all four and strap his back to his stomach to pass through the entrance. The cave itself was a straight path, and despite the tight fit, was not freezing. It was a strange thing indeed that the further he went the warmer it became, he stopped to collect his breath and switched to his thermal to see if anything had changed. It was a terrible decision as his vision was bombarded with a stream of red coming from the exit on the other side.

"Ow, damn it! That stings!"

He rubbed his eyes going back to normal, and it was obviously not the best decision he had made recently, but he was known not to make the best decisions most of the time. He continued forward despite temporarily blinding himself. With the cave being a straight path he didn't have much to fear. It was what seemed like another half-hour before he started to feel the heat from what seemed like sunlight. He forced himself out of the exit of the cave and felt for the wall beside it, taking off the pack and leaning against the wall he took off the extra layer of clothing. Digging around his by habit alone he dug out a bone and started smoking, it was a habit he picked up soon after starting his current profession. It didn't go well with everypony else when they learned of it, but the side-effects of such things didn't matter to him as he was practically immune to the smoke itself and the ingredients.

His vision was about slowly returning, and he could finally make out shapes, the noises around him alone were enough to make him draw a conclusion as to his surroundings, but he knew better to make such conclusions before seeing everything. As the dark was dissipating, he began to see greens, blues, and even yellows. He looked around to find himself on a grassy hill with what seemed like the sun shining in the sky. That didn't explain the yellow, though, that is until he looked to forward to see a yellow furred light blue-maned pony frozen in fear staring in his direction.

He stopped and began to move towards the mare only for said pony to step back each time he did. He sighed and before he could so much as say a word an ear shattering yell split through the air as the mare ran.

"Dragon!"

"Well, this is probably going to end badly. Might as well go after her." He picked up his pack and began walking after the shrieking pony.

It wasn't until the sound of bells rang through the air that he started to feel nervous at what was to come. As he pushed past some brush, he was confronted by a pack of ponies wielding spears. He put his hands up and released the last bit of smoke from the bone before letting it drop and stomping it out.

"Great, not even through the day and already hated. Good going, Spike."

Author's Note

New story! First Chapter! This is a story I've been meaning to start for a while after Paradox Scholar. Personally, I love Spike and the possibilities of his character as a whole. This story is not so much an adventure as it is more mystery, and while I still have Astral Exodus, Dear Twilight Sparkle, and Paradox Scholar in the to-do pile I can't help and feel like this is just worth it.

As always, thank you for taking the time to read my story. Please leave a comment or critique below as any critique helps me grow as a writer. Have a great day!

Warm Welcome Part 1

"Hey, can I at least get some water?"

"Silence lizard! You should be grateful you weren't killed the moment we caught you. So do us all a favor and shut up."

The armored pony that had the clear look of just another soldier pony said as he threw a cup of water at Spike. The contents spilled all over him, but enough was in the cup for him to drink using his long tongue despite being chained. He didn't mind the treatment as over the years it was just a response some ponies had when encountering him for the first time. It gradually faded as he stayed and worked anywhere, but considering how isolated this place seemed, it wasn't going to get better anytime soon.

It was boring waiting for whatever it was they wanted to do to him or for whoever was in charge. To pass the time Spike just blew smoke into different shapes, he had tried to sleep until they were ready only to have the guard wake him by poking him with a spear through the bars. It didn't hurt him as much as it just annoyed him. As he released some smoke in the shape of a fish, he watched it climb into the air and out the window that was located higher than he could reach. The guard had stopped harassing him by this point just watching Spike as he made all kinds of shapes from his smoke. He looked amused, but there was still some form of hatred in his eyes whenever he looked back at the source of the forms. Uncomfortable was the closest word that came to Spike's mind without seeming too vulgar.

Once the fish had disappeared, and Spike was getting ready to blow another, he heard the sound hooves stomping down the stairs. It seemed that the time to find out what was going to happen to him came, and not a moment too soon as whatever passed for the sun here set. He propped against the wall opposite of the bars to watch as three more guards came into view with a pony he thought could pass for a pig leading them.

The pony in front was fat, and it was just the word to describe him as sweat could be seen coming down from his forehead. He wore robes that reminded him of the pictures he saw ponies wear during the age before the sisters. They were flamboyant and needlessly adorned with gems anywhere that buttons would be located. What fur he could see of the pony was a dark brown and his short mane, which was apparently suffering from genetics, was a slightly graying black. As he stood in front of the cell, the pony whispered something to two of the guards, and they opened the cell. Immediately, they charged forward and tackled Spike to the ground applying the full force of their weight on him so as to stop him from moving.

"So, this is the dragon that Sun Spark found by the wall?" said the fat pony sitting down as another guard brought a chair for him to sit. "A lot smaller than I thought he would be, aren't dragons supposed to be large frightful creatures with wings? He looks more like a giant gecko than a dragon."

"I get that a lot, though, I wouldn't be talking about how others look when you seem like the product of a pony breeding with a hog. I would offer you some slop, but I'm a little preoccupied at the moment."

The guards that were holding Spike down stifled a laugh along with their counterparts behind the large pony.

"Well, I can see that you at least know our language which, while a surprise, is not exactly a pleasant one. But, enough formalities, I have some questions for you beast."

"The name is Spike, and I don't answer questions to ponies that won't take common courtesy into practice and skip a proper introduction."

The pony huffed and raised a hoof, a motion that signaled Spike's living constraints to slam him on the ground and stomp. It knocked the wind out of Spike, but he was relatively unharmed with the otherwise lethal force the ponies had used on him.

"Lord Swain is what you shall address me by beast, and you shall only speak when I need an answer. Is that clear?"

Spike struggled to catch his breath as the weight of the two guards made it difficult for him to take in much air. "Crystal, Lord Swine."

"Impudent beast, though, I hardly expected much from a giant gecko. Listen well beast; there have been some deaths of late in my land, and each of those deaths resulted in one or more of my subjects to be reduced to smoldering piles of bone and flesh. The investigation has been going on for a full month, and while the deaths are few and far between, I have reason to suspect that you have something to do with them."

"You think that I murdered these ponies? I've only just arrived; there is no possible way I could have been the cause of any of them."

"I have no reason to believe you've only just arrived in my land. All I do know is that one of my subjects found you earlier today. There is also the fact that you only just "arriving" here is without a doubt a blatant lie." Lord Swain said as he took a sip of the water a guard had brought him.

"A lie? What are you talkin.. agh."

Before he could finish what he was saying, one of the guards on top of him stomped again as he noticed Swain raising his hoof. The act was starting to irritate Spike more than he thought as he couldn't even defend himself against the accusations.

"It matters not, whether you are responsible or not. My subjects are in a state of panic and with your presence comes a perfect solution. The fact of the matter is that the deaths have resulted in ponies burned alive. A dragon is capable of breathing fire, and from what my guard tells me, that is indeed a fact."

Spike took a moment to look behind Swaine at the guard that was keeping an eye on him before the Lord arrived to see a sly smile. There was no way he knew about the deaths or the way they had occurred, but he did regret trying to pass the time the way he did.

"Wonderful, betrayed by my boredom. Not the first time this has happened."

"Boredom or not, my subjects want justice for the loss of life. They are in such a frenzy that they could care less whether you are the actual culprit or not. Frankly, I would have been happy if the guards had just killed you when they first caught you. That way it would be much less work on my end."

"You're going to execute me aren't you? Don't I at least get a trial or something? That is not what I call justice. Besides, if something happens to me there are at least five different Princesses that will undoubtedly seek revenge of some sort."

The room had gone quiet and for a moment Spike thought he would be released immediately, only to have such hopes crushed when everypony erupted in laughter.

"What's so funny?"

"You are beast. Five different Princesses? That is the single most entertaining thing I've heard in all my years. There are no Princesses here fool, in this land I rule. The only pony I answer to is the Chancellor of the Earth Pony tribes. There has never been any royalty in these parts for generations."

Spike was speechless, and his mind was racing as his captors continued to laugh. These ponies had no idea who the Princesses were, much less who it was they were accusing of murder. He thought the village isolated, but to be so out of touch with the rest of Equestria was insane. How had they not known of the arrival of Celestia and Luna?

"Hold on! You said before that my arrival today was an obvious lie. What did you mean by that?" Spike asked while trying to process how such isolation was even possible for so long.

Lord Swaine stopped and composed himself. He signaled the guards, and they immediately quieted down as well. "Since you've entertained me so, I suppose I can answer your question."

Spike waited for the Lord to continue, watching as Swaine was obviously enjoying making him wait for the answer.

"You see beast, the reason why your "arrival" is a lie is that the hole you supposedly crawled out from leads to nowhere. It's an empty cave that could barely fit an average pony. All that awaits at the end is a wall of Obsidian Ice and a nest of snake-bats, truth be told I'm surprised you even survived as they hold some of the deadliest poison known to ponies.

"Of course, it's a dead end and obviously it wouldn't be complete without dangerous creatures inside. Fuck, I should have known better than to accept this job."

Author's Note

Wow, a chapter released sooner than I expected. Seriously, I didn't really think I would work on this story as soon as I did. I don't mind it, and I'm sure those of you that are interested in the story certainly don't mind at all. With that said, part 1of the opening arc is up and as to when it'll end not even I know. (Disclaimer: I know when It'll end)

As always, thank you for taking the time to read my story. Please leave a comment or critique below as any critique helps me grow as a writer. Have a great day!

Warm Welcome Part 2

"Can't I at least do something to prove my innocence? I mean, even if you kill me, your ponies will know you that you lied sooner or later as the murders will just continue." Spike said trying to squirm out of the guard's grasps.

"True, but a small reprieve of their constant whining is better than having my home bombarded by the rabble of hysterical ponies." The lord said as he started to get up from his seat and make his way out.

"Wait! What if I try to find out what happened? I'm no stranger to solving mysteries."

"I hardly see how this might benefit me or my town at all. For all we know, you might just go on a rampage as soon as you're free. I can't afford that, I'd rather just execute you and be done with it."

"If you let me find whoever, or whatever is responsible maybe I'll be able to stop it and prove my innocence! Worst case scenario I fail and you execute me or I find out who or what it is and they finish me off. Best case would be finding the culprit and you can present them yourself. You'll be the hero without any of the work! Just give me a chance!"

"I do like the sound of being a hero without any of the hoofwork… Fine, I'll give you a chance to prove your innocence. You have three days and four nights to find the culprit. If you fail to do so, then you'll be executed regardless of possible leads. True Shot!"

A brown-furred pony in armor came to his side immediately at the mention of his name and knelt down before Swain. "Yes, Milord?"

"You'll accompany the beast, at the first sign of him running or a possible rampage I want you to shoot him. There should still be some of those enchanted bolts left behind from the war centuries ago. Check with the armorer for their potency first then take them with you. It should be more than enough to pierce dragon hide."

"At once my liege." He sprang up from his position and disappeared down the corridor. A door could be heard being opened and slammed shut with the sound of his hoofsteps dissipating the further he went.

"The bolts may be old, but they were enchanted by unicorns themselves to specifically fight against dragons. It was during their attempt to expand into dragon territory, foolhardy as it was, long ago. Never did find a use for them, but at least if it doesn't kill you they'll knock you out long enough for the execution to take place." Swain smiled and continued up the stairs "Your start tomorrow so rest, True Shot is a bit of an early bird." He laughed as he disappeared from Spike's view.

The guards on top of him chained him to the wall once more and left the guard that was in charge of him alone with his prisoner once more.

"Is he always such an ass?" asked Spike

"Yea, but for good reason. Wait, why am I answering a beast like you? Go to sleep, it makes my job easier."

Spike sighed and tried his best to get into a comfortable position. It was going to be a long day tomorrow. Not only did he need to find a murderer, but he needed to do it in at least four nights or he'd die. It was times like this he wished he'd pay attention to Twilight's lectures on proper puzzling and mystery solving 101. It was funny how everything she taught would come in handy somehow… if only she wasn't such a bore of a teacher.

With the sun came a downpour or at least Spike thought it was a downpour as the water seemed to come out of nowhere. He coughed and spit any of the water that got into his mouth and looked around for the source to see his favorite guard pony holding an empty bucket.

"You could have just poked me or something."

"Where's the fun in that?" replied the guard as he put away the bucket and unlocked the cell once his colleagues arrived.

With two extra guards holding on to the chains and his best pony friend bringing up the rear with a spear, they marched upstairs and outside the building. Once the door opened Spike was assaulted with the smell of morning as a breeze blew past all of them. The sun blinded him temporarily and before he had time to adjust the guards pulled him along. It was a rough walk as his eyes were slow to adjust and the spear kept poking him from behind.

"You don't have to do that every time you know. I'm not going to run or rampage."

"Can't trust a dragon. Just keep it moving."

As his eyes finally adjusted to the light, Spike saw the town for the first time. The streets were paved with cobblestone and the houses were of modern design. There was nothing denoting that they were lacking in modern technology, but at the same time the atmosphere felt completely different. The brisk morning air was full of the scent of earth and vegetation as they walked past the market area. Spike saw ponies setting up shop stop as he walked past, they hid or stared wide-eyed at the sight of him.

The streets were devoid of anypony save for the ponies whose job it was to keep them clean. However, they too ran at the sight of him coming down the street. Spike didn't see any cloud homes as he looked to the sky and still couldn't make out what was responsible for the producing the supposed sunlight for this place. He kept looking around to try and catch a glimpse of at least some pegasi or unicorns but never saw anything other than earth ponies. It took an hour and a change of guards to reach the outskirts of the town, the entrance to the town itself was guarded by a tall stone wall and metal gate.

The gate began to open as soon as the entourage got close enough for the lead guardspony to hail them. As the gate lifted the view and scent of grass was beautiful and calming, if it wasn't for the fact he was being dragged about he'd take the time to enjoy the scenery. Unfortunately, that wasn't the case as they pulled him along once again outside the gate.

"Captain True Shot, we've brought the prisoner." Said the lead guardspony.

The brown furred pony from yesterday came into view without the armor he wore last night. He wore a modest steel chest plate and had his jet black mane and tail braided in, what Spike guessed, the traditional style for the place. The thing Spike took special notice of was the rather recurve crossbow. The one point that truly caught Spike's interest was the strange bracelet the pony wore on his right hoof.

"Ah, yes. The dragon, good work stallions return to your posts I'll take it from here." True Shot said, walking towards Spike and undoing the chains once the guards were back inside the wall. "I trust you won't do anything stupid seeing as how sapient you seem to be for a bloodthirsty dragon."

"We're all sapient, it's just that most of my kind prefers the more violent approach more often than not," Spike replied rubbing his wrists as the chains fell and True Shot stacked them near the gate by some saddlebags and Spike's bag.

"Listen dragon"

"Spike"

"Very well, Spike. Captain True Shot, at your service. Or at least I would be, were you not a prisoner and a dragon. Regardless, my task is to keep you in line should anything happen during the investigation that I deem unsavory from you. I have my crossbow ready in case of serious emergency and for anything else." He tapped his right hoof and click could be heard. The bracelet he was wearing that looked like a pair of rather large wings moved and the wings parted to form a compact crossbow.

"Impressive design, though, kind of tacky at the same time. Does it work though?"

True Shot took a moment to line up the compact crossbow, he loaded a wooden bolt and fired in the direction of the wall. It traveled faster than Spike could catch with his sight, but he felt it slice through the air. On impact, the bolt left a dent on the stone structure, and all at once, twelve different ponies with crossbows at the ready popped up from the top.

"False alarm, continue your patrols!"

"Aye, Captain." Shouted the guardsponies as they disappeared back into the wall.

"Alright, no funny business. Got it." Spike said adjusting his coat and moving to collect his bag. Once he got his one he handed the saddle bags to the captain and waited for him to adjust them.

"So, where do we start captain?"

"The first murder is an hour's walk from here so we'll start there. Once you've looked at the scene we can continue to the newest death as they have yet to collect the remains due to… not finding all of her…"

"Geez, that bad huh? Well, no reason to question it, I'll be seeing it for myself once we arrive. Which way is it?"

"To the southeast, I'll be a few steps behind you, but let you know where to go. Let's move out."

Spike moved towards the direction the captain pointed to, the mention of the latest victim being in pieces did not sit well with him. If whatever was murdering ponies, was tearing them apart and burning them then it was more than likely a carnivore. As to what could possibly live in such an isolated place full of ponies was something he couldn't even imagine. Especially, if they've lived in this place for so long without previous incidents. What was the cause? Why now? Of course, the biggest question he had was whether or not he could contact anypony outside this place. He made a note to try as soon as he could get time away from the captain. For now, there was a case to solve, lives to save, and he was the only one willing to do it.

"Sweet Celestia, where's Twilight when I need her?"

Author's Note

Part 2 is out! Once again, the quote that reminds me inspiration is not needed to write has helped me produce this chapter. I have the video on my favorites and watch it when I think I can't write. Thanks to that kind of motivation I feel like writing more than ever!. Next on my plate is another chapter on a different story and a random short story I've been meaning to write. Look forward to it in the future.

As always, thank you for taking the time to read my story. Please leave a comment or critique as any critique helps me grow as a writer. Have a great day!

Warm Welcome Part 3

Spike waited to the side as the Captain talked to the landowners about the investigation and as to why there was a dragon with him. They appeared to agree and head for their house immediately; leaving the Captain alone with his captive. As Spike waited for the captain he looked around the fields of flowers and vegetables that consisted of the land and wondered just how large of an area was actually hidden in the mountain.

"I've let them know that there is going to be an investigation conducted here and to answer any question you might have."

"I'm surprised they're so willing to talk to a dragon."

"They aren't, I agreed to be ready and defend them by having my crossbow on you while they answer."

"Lovely. Before we continue, I had a question pertaining to this investigation for you. Being a Captain means you would have access to far more than I would."

"Fine, make it quick. I want us to reach the next site before sundown if possible."

"Don't worry it'll be quick." Spike reached into his coat and pulled out a small leather bound notebook and let one of his released one of his claws from his index finger.

True shot jumped back and readied the miniature crossbow. He loaded one of the magic bolts that was given to him and aimed at Spike. "Stand down!"

"Relax." Spike said with his arms raised slightly. "I'm only going to write. I've modified this claw to release ink when I need it. It was a painful process but it saves me bits on ink and quills."

"Likely story. Put it away now!"

"Look I can show you." Spike put his arms down and threw the notebook down with the paper facing upward. He knelt down and used his claw to write his name on the pad; all the while keeping his eyes on the Captain.

True Shot watched the feat. The bolt still aimed at the dragon that he perceived as a threat. He inched closer as he saw that the claw did indeed release ink onto the paper. He lowered the weapon and took off the bolt; releasing the lock that kept it in it's lethal form.

"Fine, it's obvious you're telling the truth. However, the next time you do something like that I'll shoot first and ask later."

"Got it, sorry about that." Spike picked up the notebook and stood up, dusting his coat as he did so. "Now, let's try this again. Who was the first to discover the body of..."

"Lunar Blossom and it was the father that discovered her while visiting the southern field. They hadn't seen her for a full day prior to that and filed a report at the guard station as they were visiting the village."

"Alright, and tell me, did you or any of the guards find anything peculiar once you arrived and saw the body?"

"Other than the hardly recognizable burnt body of a mare? No, nothing out of the ordinary."

"Sarcasm aside, are you one hundred percent certain that nothing was strange about the body or it's surroundings? Anything that you can remember will help me figure this out faster."

The Captain took a minute to think about the events of that day and if anything did seem out of the ordinary. The body itself was hardly recognizable save for the flank which was left relatively untouched. It was the only way the father recognized it was Lunar Blossom he had found. Other than that, the area was just a mass of burnt earth and flesh. The smell alone would be enough to upset the stomach of any veteran guard.

"Wait..." True Shot realized that there was something strange when they collected the body that day. "The smell was very strange. It was earth, flesh, and fire mixed together in a loathsome way. However, there was a trace of a fragrance I've never smelled before in all my life."

"That could help. Do you have any clue as to what it was? Anything that it could be?"

"Give me a minute."

Spike waited as the Captain was lost in thought. He looked around to see if anything might have led him to a clue for the investigation. He saw nothing except for fields of grass, flowers, and vegetables. The only other things that stood out were the house and barn in front of him. One of which, the house, had somepony peeking through one of the windows at him. He waved only for whoever was at the window to shut it and disappear inside. He was used to it, which was sad, even after everything he'd gone through there was nothing he hated more than having to deal with being hated for what he was, a dragon.

"Metal! It was the smell of some kind of metal. I'm not sure what kind or if it really is a metal. What I do know, is that the smell was metallic despite everything else. As if the body was melted with molten steel or the like."

"Metal? At least that's something to go on even if it just makes this case even stranger. Oh well, let's see this murder scene." Spike finished writing the note and put away the book. He adjusted his pack and followed the Captain's directions.

It wasn't long before they were close to the spot of the murder as the scenery changed from the vibrant life and smell of vegetation to blackened soil and the lingering smell of burnt earth. Spike took a moment to breath deep and found himself suppressing a gag as the smell was worse than True Shot had described. Easing his breathing he tried to sniff out the metallic scent possibly lingering in the air only to come up short. It was only natural as the event had taken place before his arrival and would have time to dissipate.

He walked closer to the middle of the area where the body was found and Spike witnessed just how powerful the amount of heat needed to be to leave a circle that could easily be three times his size. The middle of the circle had only one indication of what used to be there due to a shape resembling the flank and legs of a pony. It was a sight he'd rather not imagine and was glad to be too late to witness.

"Cripes, what in the name of Nightmare Moon could have made this?" Spike asked as he carefully crouched to search for anything he thought could be a clue.

"None of us have a clue. That is until you came along when you did."

"Lucky me." Spike searched along the imprint of the body hoping to find something to indicate how this had happened but turned up nothing after a few minutes of searching. "Nothing here. I take it the rest of you already searched around for tracks?"

"Yes. We failed to find anything along the lines of hoof prints or claw prints that might give us a lead."

Spike stood up and looked around the black circle. He couldn't find anything other than burnt grass, and dirt. It was as if, whatever did this, knew not to leave any clues as to it's identity. "That can't be right..."

"What?"

"Nothing, just talking to myself."

The Captain failed to give a response and continued to watch as Spike walked towards the outer edges of the circle. Spike stopped a step short of leaving the circle and began to walk the edge. He kept his sights on the ground searching for anything that might stick out. When he failed to come up with anything, he decided to do another walk. Only this time, he used his thermal vision to see if anything stood out. It was a long shot due to how long it had been since the body was removed but it wouldn't hurt to try.

"What are you doing? You've already walked around enough to find nothing. Don't you think it's time to question the family?" The Captain was getting impatient as Spike continued to walk around.

"In a minute, I just... hold on." Spike crouched and focused his eyes on a tiny bit of dark blue embedded in the ground a few feet away from the edge.

He dug it out to find a shard of what could be ice the size of a marble. He switched back to his regular vision and picked it up to find it burned. The finger he used had a slight mark of frostbite the same size as the object; he took his pack off and dug out tweezers and a piece of burlap. He picked the marble up again with the tweezers and put it on the burlap. Putting away the tweezers, Spike repositioned his pack and walked over to the Captain.

"What do you make of this?" Spike asked showing the marble to True Shot.

"It looks like it's letting off a trail of something..." The Captain reached for the marble only to be stopped by Spike pulling his claw back.

"Don't touch it. This thing is like dry ice, you'll only hurt yourself if you touch it with your bare hoof." Spike motioned for the Captain to stick out his hoof and place the burlap on it along with the marble.

True Shot looked at the object with wonder. He'd never seen something so small and cold survive out in the sun like this. He certainly didn't expect to find it at the scene of a murder. He passed it back to Spike who had gotten a small box out and placed the object inside.

"Why the box?"

"It's got a preservation spell on it. Whatever I put inside will keep and decay at only one-fourth the regular rate." He put the box away in his pack and adjusted it once more on his back. "Another thing to add as a clue. Now let's go talk to the family."

"How did you find it?" True Shot asked as they walked back to the house.

"I can see in thermal vision when I need to. The only problem is, that I can't maintain it for long as it'll dry out my eyes and damage my vision."

"Another thing you've augmented about yourself?"

"No, I was born with it. Being a dragon has a few benefits; I just have to not mind the occasional rotten fruit or terrified scream being thrown my way."

True Shot said nothing to the last comment. Spike didn't blame him; it wasn't every day one would meet a dragon that felt horrible for being what he was. They approached the house after a couple minutes of walking and the Captain told him to stay put as he walked up to knock on the door. A red-furred foal with a short black mane answered the door only to call for another resident and vanish inside. The Captain said a few words and pointed a hoof to Spike when the pony he was talking to retreated further inside. It took a while before the Captain managed to get them to come outside and Spike met the farm's owner for the first time. He wore a beaten and dusty brown scarf that was in tatters towards the end that floated in the breeze. His coat was a fair brown and his mane a light blue and styled in a rather shaggy fashion. His cutie mark looked to be a small collection of flowers which might have signified his talent for growing them and farming.

The pony stopped a couple meters away from Spike as True Shot walked ahead and a little past the dragon. Spike turned to look what the Captain was doing only to see him ready the crossbow he had on his back and aim it straight at him. The Captain nodded slightly towards the farmer and received one back from his target. Spike walked a bit closer only for the farmer to back away slightly.

"Fine, I'll just talk loudly. Good Afternoon, my name is Spike and I have a few questions about the murder that happened here if you don't mind." he said readying his pad and claw.

"F..fine, p-please make it quick." the pony stammered as he kept looking to the Captain.

"May I have your name?"

"Watson. Watson Meadows."

Spike wrote it down and a cough came behind him. He looked back to see the Captain make a motion that wanted him to speed things along. Spike sighed and looked back to Watson.

"How did you come to find the body?"

"I was working those fields a few weeks ago in the morning due to the field rotation and saw the slight traces of smoke rising. When I got there and saw her body I went to tell the rest of the family."

"Was there anything that stuck out to you when you arrived at the scene?"

"Other than the burnt circle and my daughter dead? Nothing stood out that I could recall."

"Great, more sarcasm..." Spike mumbled. "I heard that she went missing just a day prior to the incident. Any idea where she might have gone?"

"No idea. When she usually disappeared it would only be for an hour or two. We didn't see her for the full day and thought she might have just gone to the village. She has friends there that she only saw during our trips to sell and stock."

"Before she went missing, was there anything strange in her behavior or did anything out of the ordinary happen around that part of your land?"

"No. Everything was the same as every other day."

"One last question." Spike pulled out the small box that contained the marble he found and opened it. He looked back to the Captain motioning to take the box to Watson.

True Shot came forward switching to his miniature crossbow and keeping Spike in his sights. He grabbed the box in his mouth and moved backward towards Watson; stopping short of bumping into the stallion. The Captain put the box down and opened it to reveal the marble.

"Have you ever seen anything like this before?" Spike asked watching the scene with slight amusement.

Watson stepped closer to the box and looked inside to get a better look. His eyes went wide and he ran back inside the house. He emerged less than a minute later with a small pouch in his mouth. He stopped and set it down next to the box; opening it to reveal a similar looking marble.

"Where did you get that?" asked True Shot as he looked down at the identical object.

"My daughter found it. She had plans to sell it on our next market day."

"Where did she find it then?" Spike asked inching his way closer and watching True Shot for when he should stop.

"I don't know... I'm guessing she found it the same place she disappears to for those hours. I'm sorry that I can't help more than that."

"We'll be taking it along with us. Please put it in the box." The Captain said as he watched Watson do as he was told.

True Shot picked the box up again and walked it to Spike who looked at it briefly before putting it away. Spike walked back as the Captain walked towards him. When they were enough of a distance away the crossbow was put away.

"Thank you for the help. We'll be back if we need to ask anything else." Spike yelled and turned towards the direction True Shot pointed.

"Wait!"

Both Spike and True Shot turned around to find Watson coming up slowly and stop a bit closer than he did before.

"Yes?" replied both the guard and his prisoner.

"You're conducting the investigation of the deaths right?"

"Yes. Captain True Shot should have explained everything."

"If... if you find whoever is responsible... please do everything possible to make them face justice. My daughter was a gentle mare... she didn't deserve to die like that. She wouldn't hurt even the most annoying of mosquitoes." Watson seemed to shake where he stood. Whether it was from anger, fear, or remembering the way he found his daughter not even he knew.

"Don't worry, I'll find out who or what was responsible for this." Spike smiled only to see Watson take several steps back at the sight.

"Th..thank you." Watson said before running back inside his house.

"It's the only way to prove your innocence, so I doubt you'd half-ass this whole thing." True Shot said as he got Spike moving forward again.

"That's true, but if I can do something to ease their minds then I'll be glad to do it. No father should have to find their daughter in that state. Pony or not, I'll find the one responsible."

They walked towards the northwest as clouds seemed to cover more of the sky. The walk was pure silence as the next place they were going to visit still had the most recent victim of the string of murders. If that was any indication of what was to come then Spike had his work cut out for him.

Author's Note

Two days it took me to write this. Two days of going back and forth on it and watching longplays of arcade games. Man, oh man did I ever feel like having achieved something. It usually takes me longer to even write something close to 2,000 words, but now I'm getting used to putting one word after the other and getting that count up. I'll be working on the next chapter soon just have to work on the next chapters for The Scout and Paradox Scholar.

As always, thank you for taking the time to read my story. Please leave a comment or critique below as any critique helps me grow as a writer. Have a great day!

Warm Welcome Part 4

"Is this the place?"

"Yes. This is only the entrance to it. We need to head inside and towards the back of the building near the garden."

Spike and True Shot faced a tall gate surrounded by brick and mortar. It was several feet taller than it needed to be and was obviously constructed to be imposing. The brick walls had Ivy tendrils along their surface in a tight embrace. The guard at the front looked better equipped than even the town's guards as he walked the perimeter. As the guard opened the iron giant and filled the air with the screech of rusty iron; Spike took note that only seconds had passed before more guards appeared around them to escort them. The treatment was more than likely due to him being what he was, but it didn't matter to him. It was just more genuine instincts from what would usually be prey against a predator.

"Listen." True Shot said as they stopped at the front door. "This is the house of the Lord's Sister. No matter what she says or does; I want you to stay silent unless absolutely necessary."

"I take it she doesn't know about me?"

"She knows about you. Trust me... she knows about you and that is exactly why it's best for you to stay quiet."

Spike didn't quite get what the Captain was trying to say but decided not to argue. If there was a pony besides the lord of the town that made him act this way, then it was obvious that something was up. The door opened to reveal a small room with several more guards; they walked towards the visitors and started to search them for anything dangerous. They took the Captain's crossbows under the assurance that the guards would take out Spike should something happen. The saddlebags and pack were also taken from them. This left Spike with only his coat, book, the box he had taken out with the mysterious marbles and his pack of cigarettes. The Captain argued that he'd stick with his armor and only conceded to taking off his helmet if he could be supplied with his miniature crossbow.

The two of them went through another doorway to end up in what appeared to be a lavishly decorated with white and red colors strewn about woven within tapestries of intricate design. Spike felt a sharp jolt to his side and saw that the Captain had been the perpetrator. He looked at him with a scowl only to track where the True Shot was looking; in front of them, they found a mare wearing a dark blue dress with white lace along the bottom. The same color as her mane and choker which held a beautifully appetizing Lapis Lazuli that shone as she walked through the last rays of the setting sun.

The white furred beauty with cobalt eyes and long eyelashes looked their way only to display a smile that hid the predatory look in her eyes. She stopped half-way in front of both her guests. The silence last a few more seconds before the butler began to speak.

"May I present Madam Silky Sweet. Sister to our Lord Swaine. Daughter of Mistress Salty Sweet and Master Victor Swaine." She curtsied before the butler continued.

"Madam. I present to you Captain True Shot and his prisoner." The Captain bowed which Spike immediately imitated.

"Your name?" the question rang through the air as soft and tender as silk. Everyone in the room stopped and looked towards the source to see Silky Sweet walk closer towards Spike.

Her security immediately sprang to hold the dragon down but was called off and away by Silky. She stopped in front of Spike and he slowly lifted his head to see her intensely focused on him. He looked to his right in order to get some help from the Captain but saw him still bowing waiting for this to play out.

"Spike. My name is Spike Ma'am." he replied still bowing

"No last name?" She said while circling the pair.

"No last name. I'm simply known as Spike."

"Hmm. How interesting. Come along then; I'll show you to where the death took place."

"My lady if you would please let me escort the two; I do not think it appropriate for one such as yourself to see to these two. Much less talk to such a ghastly beast."

"I'll thank you not to barge into my affairs, Henry. You may have been employed by my brother but that doesn't mean you get to say what I can and can't do. Now go prepare dinner and make sure there is enough for our guests."

The butler bowed and walked out of the room. Spike and True Shot could hear the closing of doors and the echoes of hoofsteps dissipating. They looked up and saw that the lady of the house was in a rather foul mood compared to before that conversation.

"I swear, even when he's not around my brother just tries his best to ruin things. Now come along both you. I would rather not spend all day answering questions as I have some of my own." She turned towards the end of the room and headed towards a glass door that led to a veranda.

The Captain and dragon fell in behind her, sandwiched between guards on all sides. While it was true that Silky was in charge of the place, it was clear that her brother commanded more than just a town. He was either a pony with many enemies or an extremely overbearing and doting brother. They walked from the veranda and through a stone path with flowers on either side to what appeared to be the entrance to a hedge maze. Silky stopped in front of it and turned to the both of them with a smile that was all too familiar in True Shot's experience.

"The incident took place in the maze, in the back to be precise. We can just as easily go around in order to get there but I would like it if the two of you used the maze to get there."

"Ma'am, begging your pardon but we don't really have time for this. If you would be so kind as to show us to the scene of the crime, we would like to continue with our investigation." The Captain said taking a step forward only to be stopped by one of the guards.

"Come now Truly. I hardly ever get to entertain guests and even if I've known you since we were young; you barely even visit unless my brother invites you."

"Truly? Are you serious?" Spike tried to stifle a laugh.

The rest of the guards held one back as well while Silky awaited an answer from the rather stone-faced Captain with the smallest of smiles.

"Fine. We shall take the maze to the location." True Shot said reluctantly while stepping on Spike's foot. Spike simply took it without a word as it was far from harmful.

"Perfect! Now go through here and you'll get there in no time at all. Only, I want Spike to be the one to lead. I'll be listening to see if you cheat since Truly already knows the layout of the maze." Silky walked off down another path with most of the guards falling in behind her.

The remaining guards opened the gate to the maze and shoved the two inside. The gate closed and Spike took point with the Captain scowling behind him.

"So... Truly huh?"

"Not another word dragon."

"Fine, let's get out of here as quick as possible then... Truly."

The Captain aimed the crossbow and shot Spike in the back with a regular bolt. While it wasn't in any way fatal; the impact was enough to push him to the ground.

"Got it... no nicknames..."

As they walked through the maze in silence; Spike took the time to think about what he'd learned so far from the previous location and the Captain. The murders had something to do with fire hot enough to turn bones to ash but left no traces of who or what was responsible. The clues were marble sized dry ice like objects and the smell of some type of metal. It was hardly anything to work with and left many questions unanswered. How did the fire take place without it spreading? Why did it leave behind something so incredibly cold? Did whatever murder Lunar Blossom do it with some kind of motive? If so, then what was the mare doing when she disappeared and did it have anything to do with her death? Too many questions were swimming around his head and not enough clues were available for him to make the connection.

It wasn't until they ran into a dead-end for the fourth time that Spike and the Captain started to get frustrated.

"Can't you just point to where I should go?"

"No. I'm not sure how she does it but Lady Sweet knows whether somepony cheats or not. She's been that way since we were children."

"How in the world did you even get to know her that closely?" Spike said as he squatted and dug a small hole in the ground. "Just marking it to see if I'm going in circles."

"Fine, and I have no obligation to tell you anything about my life. Until you are proven innocent, you are still my prisoner."

"Geez, fine then. Fuck, I am going in circles."

True Shot looked down to see the same hole Spike had dug just a moment ago. It seemed like they were going to be in the maze for quite some time.

"Fuck this."

"What are you doing?"

"I'm going to use my thermal vision. We've been in here long enough to leave a trail so I'll use that as a point of reference in order to get out."

True Shot watched as Spike blinked and his eyes were coated in a soft transparent film. The dragon looked around and found what he'd been looking for before moving forward once more. It wasn't until he reached a new wall of green that Spike turned towards the Captain.

"I'm supposed to know about this despite this being my first time?"

"Yes, it's Lady Sweet's favorite joke."

Spike pushed on the wall and it rotated to reveal a straight path to an opening. They walked down the path and were soon assaulted by a familiar smell. It was the same smell that had been at the previous site. However, there was another scent mixing itself into the horrendous stench. The scent of molten metal mixed with burning flesh and fur. How anyone could stand such a smell was beyond the both of them.

As they came onto the opening they noticed a hole to their left that led out to the garden. Silky was standing there with a mask covering her half her face. A guard gave some to both Spike and the Captain before they continued to the spot.

"Wonderful! You both made it and didn't cheat. Wasn't that fun?"

"Quite. Now, if you would be so kind as to answer a few questions."

"You're no fun Truly. Alright, ask away then."

"He'll be conducting the investigation. I'm just here in case he tries anything."

"Of course." Silky moved past True Shot and came up next to Spike who was trying to put on the mask given to him only to have the bands snap. She giggled as he threw down the broken mask and took out a large piece of cloth from his coat to use as a filter.

"I apologize that we don't have much in the way of dragon-sized masks."

Spike turned to see her looking up at him and he immediately stepped away as the guards behind her took aim. He bowed looked towards True Shot who walked in between the two.

"Lady Sweet, please keep a safe distance. If not for your sake, then for mine. I can't let something happen to the Lord's sister due to a prisoner I'm in charge and responsible for after all."

"Humph. Fine, but only if he stops bowing so much and answers my questions like a normal pony... dragon."

The Captain looked at Spike and Spike, in turn, looked at him like this was the best they were going to get. True Shot moved behind Spike and readied his crossbow while Spike walked around the scene.

It was a circle almost exactly like the first one only smaller. The body was nowhere to be seen, nor was there any indication of one being burnt other than the lingering smell.

"Was there a body?" Spike asked the Captain

"Yes and no. The one my maid found was all black and when they tried to recover the remains it just turned to ash." Silky responded as she tried to make her way around the circle as well.

"Ash? That would explain there being no marks of a possible location. When did the murder take place? Was there anyone around other than the victim?"

"It was during the monthly visit to my brother's house in town. The gardener was by himself during midday here in the maze trimming the hedges when he was attacked. According to one of the maids, she heard a something close to a scream before seeing a flash."

"Lady Sweet, I'm surprised you're taking all this so well. Most ponies of high standing such as yourself wouldn't dare set hoof near such a place, much less talk about it with such... interest."

"Oh, don't get me wrong Mr. Spike. I care for each and every one of my employees and I've known Mr. Loose Leaf since I was a filly. It's because of those reasons that I've taken an interest. That stallion was as important to me as my real family and I intend to bring whoever killed him to justice."

"Lady Sweet, please leave that part of the investigation to guards."

"Truly, you're such a stick in the mud sometimes."

Spike snorted at the comment and searched the circle once more with his thermal vision. "You mentioned there was a scream and a flash. Was the scream from the victim or the suspect?"

"I don't know whether it was from Mr. Leaf, but the maid thinks it was whatever or whoever killed him that screamed. She said it sounded... savage and guttural."

"And the flash? How big was it? Any particular color?"

"We don't know how big it was as anypony who saw it was temporarily blinded. As for the color, I think she mentioned it to be pure white."

Spike wrote it all down as she described and put away his book before coming alongside True Shot. He knelt down in order to whisper something.

"I can't find any sign of that marble we found this morning. Either it didn't leave one behind or somepony must have found it."

"Do you think it might have been one of the staff?"

"Can't say for sure right now. All I do know is that between this death and the first there are no connections I can see."

"It's not looking good for you. You've only got two more days before your execution. Pray we find something significant soon."

Spike stood up and dug around his coat for a bone. He showed it to the Captain who looked at it with suspicion. "It's a cigarette. Basically, I'm just going to smoke if that's okay by you."

"Fine, make it quick and don't go near Lady Sweet with that."

Spike blew a small emerald wisp into the air and lit the bone with it. Once it's purpose was fulfilled he swatted the tiny flame away as it dissipated into the air.

"What was that?"

"What was what Lady Sweet?" Spike replied before blowing some smoke away from the mare.

"That tiny fire you just made. It just hung in the air as you used it. Can all dragons do that?"

"Well, they can certainly learn. It just takes years of training to control their fire. I've just got a better handle of it than most."

"Can you do it again?"

Spike looked to his jailer and received a nod in return. "Alright, but please keep a safe distance and don't touch it. I doubt ponies are as fireproof as dragons." He made an another wisp the size of a bit and let it float freely in place.

"Wow..." Silky moved forward to gaze at the emerald flame dance and crackle in the air. "That's amazing, I've never seen anything like it in all my life. Do you think I can keep it?"

"I doubt it. It's only a small fire so it'll die out soon enough. Just don't..."

As Spike was going to remind her not to touch it a gust of wind blew through the hole in the maze took the wisp with it. The wisp collided with the circle and immediately caught fire. The emerald flames grew instantaneously as Spike grabbed Silky and True Shot to move away from the deadly green light source. As he let go of the pair of ponies; he watched the fire grow but never leave the circle. It was as if it refused to burn anywhere else than where the circle had been.

"What the hell just happened?! What the fuck did you do dragon?!" The Captain yelled aiming his crossbow once again at Spike with Silky still on the ground behind him.

"I didn't do anything. The wisp just collided with the ground and ignited." Spike took off his coat and laid it on the ground. He stepped forward and reached for the flames making sure he could control his fire. The emerald flames responded and he stepped inside undaunted by the heat. He stopped in the center and started to inhale the flames.

The ponies watched as the flames were sucked into the dragon's mouth as he breathed deeply. Once the flames were gone; he swallowed hard and burped a bit of smoke. Spike made a face of disgust before spitting out the aftertaste.

"Wha..." Silky was the first to speak as Spike put his coat back on.

"What just happened?" True Shot finished her thought as Spike spit more of the taste out of his mouth.

"Calcium carbide."

"What?"

"I said it was Calcium carbide that set off the flames. It used the wisp as an ignition and burned only what was covered in the stuff."

True Shot moved closer to the circle only to be stopped by Spike. He looked to the dragon who shook his head and took a step back.

"So you ate the fire and now you know what caused the circle?"

"Calcium carbide is most likely that metallic smell that's been hanging around. It must have dried or been washed away at the first site due to possible weather or the Meadows trying to restore the damage. There was enough here for it to reignite; thankfully it was with my flames. Otherwise, the damage could have spread at an enormous rate had I not eaten it."

"Okay, so you eat fire and you can tell what the smell was by just doing that?"

"Yes, fine, I eat fire but I would rather not if I can help it. Eating fire is like inhaling someone's breath. It's just plain disgusting and leaves a nasty aftertaste. I only did this because it was like inhaling my own breath, which, is pretty much the same taste as what I smoke. The aftertaste was due to the Calcium carbide, not something you'd want to try eating."

All of the ponies looked on in wonder as the dragon known simply as Spike got up and started to smoke once more. They'd just witnessed the capabilities of a dragon first hoof and were shocked to see him unscathed, albeit a case of bad breath.

"So now we know what that metallic smell was; any ideas as to our next course of action?"

"Well, I do have some but first I have to know a couple things."

"What do you need to know?"

"First, is whether or not there are any mines, catacombs, or deep forest areas around here. The second thing I need to know is... are you okay with dark and possibly cramped spaces?"

Author's Note

Honestly, I think I'm having a lot more fun writing this story with each new chapter. I've tried my hand at fantasy, slice of life, drama and most other genres out there. This is by far the one type of genre I'm getting to like more and more. I'll still do the other ones, but for now I think I've found my niche.

Originally, I was going to call this chapter CaC2 after Calcium Carbide but realized that would break the whole chapter naming sense. So instead I'll just leave the link for any that are curious as to how Calcium Carbide pertains to the metallic smell. CaC2

As always, thank you for taking the time to read my story. Please leave a comment or critique below as any critiques help me grow as a writer. Have a great day!

Warm Welcome Part 5

“Why are we heading back to town if you already know where our next stop is?”

“We need permission from Lord Swaine in order to enter the mines and catacombs”

Spike and True Shot walked through the night as they made their way back to town. They had left Silky Sweet’s manor after Spike had identified the substance and stated where they needed to investigate next. Silky argued with the Captain for an hour about staying for dinner and for the night. In any other circumstances True Shot might have stayed but the fact that Spike had a time limit before executed rendered the opportunity invalid. Not to mention the fact that in just a day the seemingly dangerous beast had found more than one piece of crucial evidence towards the case.

“Listen, Spike.”

“Whoa, what’s with the respect in your voice? That came out of nowhere.”

“Shut up.”

“There we go. That’s the sourpuss I know. Anyways, what’s up?”

“I want to take this time to say that I believe you about not being responsible for the murders. Granted, I did suspect you in the beginning but the fact remains you’ve done more with the limitations put on you than the guards have in weeks.”

“I’m doing what I need to in order to live Captain. I don’t deserve such praise, it’s completely for selfish reasons.”

“Selfish or not; I want to thank for what you are doing and I apologize for my harsh treatment. If you can promise me that you won’t try anything then I promise to keep my crossbow back until I need it.”

“I promise. Thank you, Captain.”

“You’re welcome. Now, stick out your arms. I need to put the cuffs on you again before we enter town. Oh, and don’t mind the rest of the guards. Once this is all over and the criminal is caught, I’ll try my best to put in a good word.”

“If we catch him or it. Right now all we have to go on is the next location and two strange marble things. Frankly, with only two days left, even I’m starting to get nervous about all of this.”

“I never thought I’d live to see the day when a dragon got nervous around ponies.”

Spike smiled sadly and looked towards the horizon as the town came into view. He put forth his writs and the iron clamped down.

“Anyone would be nervous when they only have so long to live… Anyone…”

The Captain called out to the guards on post as they reached the gate and it slowly started to open. The guards that had previously been in charge of Spike along with True Shot came into view as gate lifted from its position. They raced forward and clamped more chains on his legs and neck. Two extra guards joined the Captain with crossbows of their own and stayed behind them. True Shot took point just in front of Spike and they walked through the streets. The few ponies that were still present as the sun went down were the ones that enjoyed the night life. They would work the stalls selling their wares for any of the guards that had night shifts and put out extra stools for the ponies that joined them in their talks. There were ponies that washed and combed the streets for debris every night to prepare for the morning and keep things sanitary. Mares of the night that would lure any of the dwellers or workers to spend coin on them or their stalls.

The streets were as lively at night as they were in the morning for the town, if not more so. However, tonight, everything stopped as the chains resounded through the alleys and stone paths. The houses were all lit as the procession of guards trudged forward with their prisoner. The ponies watched on as Spike followed without resistance. He would occasionally glance at the stalls only to have the ponies that were gawking run in terror. He saw them wear the same expressions other ponies made when meeting him for the first time. The same expressions the few ponies that were awake when he left the town wore. Only, these were different than any other time he got them. These looks were of true fear and disgust. Where the rest of the ponies of Equestria only feared him for not ever seeing him. They would quickly forget about what he was due to the knowledge of the Princesses regarding him as an important individual.

These ponies knew nothing of the Princesses and that meant they knew nothing of him helping the elements of harmony. It meant that no matter what he did or say nothing would change their minds about what he was. A blood thirsty, dangerous, pony eating monster; he thought back to his meeting with Silky Sweet and realized that, while many of these ponies would never change their opinion, there were at least some that tried to understand him. It gave him hope that he might indeed be welcomed here at some point.

His train of thought was disrupted as a rock hit him in the face. It didn’t hurt but it had caught him unaware and made him flinch reflexively. The chains shook as the guards were pulled slightly closer to him. They panicked and pulled back on their ends forcing him to the ground. The armed guards readied their crossbows and took aim. The citizens that took that first rock as a signal threw more rocks in his direction. They started to yell as the guards sported smiles at each impact made. He could hear the Captain ordering his squad to stand down and to put away their weapons but it was mostly drowned out by the yelling of the crowds.

“Monster!”

“Filthy Savage!”

“Give me back my son!”

“Give me back my father!”

“Throw more stones! Aim for his eyes!”

“What are the guards doing?! Kill the beast!”

“Kill it!”

“Kill the beast!”

“Kill the beast! Kill the beast! Kill the beast! Kill the beast! Kill the beast!”

The ponies were stomping and working into a frenzy as more and more stones were being thrown. The whole time during this Spike didn’t move an inch. He simply watched as they kept shouting at him. Their faces contorted with a mixture of fear and pure anger. The guards ignoring True Shot’s words and sky beginning to grow darker and darker. It would have easy for him to break free. He could throw the guards away with pure strength, use his flames to melt the chains or even just use them on the ponies. However, he didn’t do any of those options; he was taught better by Twilight and the girls. He knew what sorts of consequences him breaking free would bring. So he simply knelt in the street and took the brunt of their hysteria. It wasn’t until a thunderous sound echoed through the town that everyone went silent.

Spike tried to look in the direction it came from and watched as familiar figure came into view. Surrounded on all sides by elite guardians who commanded even more authority than the guards holding his chains. The mare walked past him and stood in front as True Shot joined her side at once. Silky Sweet looked at Spike briefly and smiled his way before turning her face back to the crowds and adopting a mask he knew all too well from his time around the Princesses.

“Enough! How dare you call yourselves civilized earth ponies when you treat him this way! We don’t know whether or not he is responsible for anything that has happened these past weeks!”

“But Madam Sweet, that thing is dragon. It couldn’t have been anything else!”

“Do you think I’m blind?! I know he’s a dragon and I know what he is capable of unlike the rest of you! Do you think that a dragon would just sit around taking the brunt of your violent actions without retaliating?! Do you think that the fact chains are on him means you’re safe?!”

The ponies surrounding the them started to murmur and back away slightly.

“Spike?”

“Yes, Madam Sweet?”

“Show them.”

“But…”

“Now!”

Spike stood up and the guards panicked as they were being pulled closer. They tried to get him on his knees once more but failed. Everypony watched as snapped the chains off his wrists and neck and melted the ones on his legs. He threw them off and stood next to Captain True Shot who backed away from Silky Sweet. The ponies that had once been livid were now shaking and panicking as they watched him easily break the only things that caused them to have a boost in courage.

“Do you see?! Do you see how easily he could have done that? Do you see how he only did it when I asked? He is not a monster! He is a living being! He might be a prisoner but that does not mean he is the one responsible for the deaths of ponies lately. This gathering is finished! All of you disburse and return to what you were doing before!”

Murmurs were once more being exchanged through the air as the ponies started to separate. Some stayed behind as other just left to go about their business. It wasn’t until Silky stomped the ground and caused a quake that the rest ran away. She took a moment as her personal guard finished keeping any other pony away from the three in the middle and sent the town guards back to their posts.

“I’m sorry about that Spike. I didn’t expect them to do anything like that. Tensions have been high ever since the first murder and the walls have done nothing to dissuade such things going on inside of town. On behalf of the ponies in this town, I apolo…”

True Shot stopped her from bowing and shook his head as she searched for why he had done so.

“Madam Sweet, thank you. If everyone was as kind as you then there would be less sadness in the world. However, don’t apologize to me about anything. This much is something I can handle and for someone of your standing to apologize to a “beast” it will only hurt your standing among your ponies.”

“He’s right Lady Sweet, for your sake and for his, don’t do something that could lead to a misunderstanding or used to fuel the fires.”

“Fine, I won’t say anything else about the matter. I will, however, accompany the both of you to my brother’s mansion. I have need to talk to the lout about why he insists on keeping me locked up. Now, come along. We need to get there soon or I’ll be missing a few hours of beauty sleep this night.”

The group walked through the streets without any more incidents. They were only victims of the occasional glance and shout from those that were otherwise occupied to be in the crowd that formed. The path to the Lord’s manor was a relatively short one, the only problem was that it consisted of going through many winding roads to reach the center of town. Much like the one Silky Sweet lived in, the Lord’s manor was encased in a wall practically identical to the other. The only difference between then was that there was no back garden as it was all within the town. The manor itself was twice as big as the one they came from, whether it was built that way or remodeled by the current owner no one could say as it looked new yet ancient.

They were met at the gate by a butler and several other guards that matched the ones following Silky. They took over for the ones Silky brought with her and continued on with the butler leading the way. As Silky and the Captain entered the manor, the guards that were following them pounced on Spike and shackled him. True Shot and Silky turned only to be stopped as several more guards appeared. Spike didn’t resist and just lay face down on the ground with several hooves pressing up against his back.

“I really wish you’d stop acting on your own my dear sister.”

The guards and butler stood firm and everyone else turned (some better than others) to face the stallion coming down the steps with a maid carrying a tray with glasses and what appeared to be some form of alcohol. Dressed much like when Spike first met him he watched as his guards tied up the dragon.

“Swaine! You let him go right now!”

“You know I can’t do that.”

“Swaine, I swear if you don’t let him go right now…”

“You’ll do what?! I think you’re forgetting who you’re talking to dear sister. I am the Lord of this place and my word is law! Now, get inside and ready yourself for dinner. I must speak with the Captain.”

“Swaine!”

“Silky Sweet! Now!”

She backed away at the yell and walked past him going upstairs to get ready but not before taking one of the glasses on the tray and smashing it on the ground. Several maids came at once to clean the mess and some went after Silky to cater to her. Swaine walked closer to the two left behind and looked past True Shot at the captive.

“I heard of what Silky did in town. Damn idiot could have gotten herself caught up in that mess.”

“She’s the same as ever.”

“Silence True Shot. I want to know why you let it happen.”

“She’s my Lord’s sister. I can’t rightly go against her wishes; it’ll be the same as disobeying your orders.”

“Typical, you were always quick to find an excuse.” Swaine took a sip of his glass and walked towards Spike still pinned to the ground.

“I know from what I’ve heard of the incident in town that you can just as easily break free. However, I trust you understand what’ll happen in case you do?”

“I understand…”

“That’s a good beast. Now, Captain!”

“Yes, Milord?”

“I want an update on the investigation.”

“We’ve found clues that were otherwise unknown to us at the first crime scene and one important lead at the manor Lady Sweet resides.”

“What are these clues and the lead?”

“They are marble sized items that have the properties similar to dry ice and the lead is the compound known as Calcium Carbide.”

“What in blazes is Calcium Carbide?”

“It’s what leaves that metallic smell at the scenes. It’s typically used in the production of steel or as a fuel substance for Carbide Lamps.” Spike said trying to move his head to the side to speak clearly.

“And how do you know that?”

“I was taught a lot of things at an early age by a Princess and have an excellent memory.”

“Again with these Princesses. Enough, Captain True Shot to what do I owe this unwanted intrusion?”

“Sir, we came to request permission to access the mines and catacombs near the southern forest. We believe that we should be able to find more conclusive evidence towards what is happening in our town.”

“We?”

“Milord?”

“Captain, I trust you aren’t getting friendly with the prisoner. I would hate to see one of my best soldiers be tempted into colluding with such a monstrosity. Remember that if he doesn’t prove he isn’t responsible he will be executed without remorse and I’ll make sure you’re the one to carry it out.”

“Yes… Milord.”

A foal came by with writing tools on a tray and stood firm as Lord Swaine wrote a few words and stamped the document. He shoved the paper at True Shot who took it firmly and bowed.

“Go at once. Keep me updated on your progress and if you need permission for anything else let the guards at the town gate know before you come back with this… thing.”

“By your leave.”

The Lord turned and disappeared inside the manor as the doors closed. The guards hauled Spike outside and exchanged the chains with Silky’s guards who allowed him to stand before heading outside the town. True Shot followed in silence the whole way. They didn’t encounter any forms of aggression from the populace on their way out and arrived outside with ease. The chains were undone and the guards headed back towards the manor leaving True Shot alone once again with Spike.

“Don’t you just love that guy?”

“Let’s get going. We don’t have the luxury of wasting time.”

“Normally I would agree with you but why are you rushing? I’m the one that’s going to die.”

“Yes, and I am the one carrying it out. I would rather not have it come to that.” The Captain took out a lamp and tried to light it. He was starting to get frustrated until a small green wisp flew inside and lit the lamp. “Thanks.”

“No. Thank you, Captain. Let’s go catch us a murderer.”

They headed south passing by the wall under the eyes of several guards as the two figures were illuminated in the eerie green glow of the lamp.

Author's Note

Working on this story is a delight and I try and take what I do here into consideration when I write any other stories with OCs because I'm still new to the whole character building from scratch thing.

As always, thank you for taking the time to read my story. Please leave a comment or critique below as any critique helps me grow as a writer. Have a great day!

Warm Welcome Part 6

"I can't see anything. This green glow really doesn't help either." said the Captain as Spike walked beside him carrying the torch lit by his fire.

The guards at the entrance to the catacombs had them into the gated area once the pass was flashed. The catacombs were normally closed to any and all ponies that came by unless it was the Lord himself that allowed it. The reason being that it was the site for all of the ponies lost during the raids from the other races many years ago. The minimum maintenance was done around the many walkways close to the entrance as to keep them from being hazardous, but the place itself was so dug deep into the ground that any pony that knew exactly how far it went had long since passed.

"Well, if you want a different flame go for it and I'll put this one out."

"It's fine, I'm just trying not to keep my mind off the fact we're in a tomb."

"You told me that it was for ponies who died during the raids but this is just..."

"I know. There were a lot of raids in the past and many of us lost many family lines during them. I, myself, come from a completely different family line than my current one."

"What do you mean?" A crunch came underneath Spike's feet as they started to come across the ignored parts of the place. Bones were strewn across the ground as the walls were slowly degrading the bodies fell onto the floor. "Great. Anyways, you were saying?"

"The raids took the parents of my great great great great great grandmother Apple Blossom. She was only a small filly barely four years old. Which, unfortunately, was the norm during those turbulent times. She was later picked up by a stallion known as Triple Shot that found her starving near where her home was once located. He had come to see if he could rebuild near the fertile land."

"I've read that the raids were horrible but... I can't even begin to imagine losing every pony I knew that young."

"Yea. It broke her mind something awful. It took years of love and care from Triple for her to return to normal. He never married and so she became his daughter once she was able to regain herself. Since then, every time there is only a single child in the family of marriageable age and they are a mare, they ask the husband to take on the Shot name in memory of Triple."

"So... does that mean..."

"I'm not married, I'm the only son in my family and there hasn't been a mare born into the line since Apple Blossom. Whether it's because of luck or some form of magic, the shot name has never once gone away from our core family."

"That's amazing. I've only ever met one other family that has had such close knit lineage but even they have had mares born into the family."

"Yes, well, enough of the history lesson. We've got an investigation to carry out. Which... wait... where are we?" True Shot asked as he noticed darkness surrounding them from all sides where the torch didn't touch.

"Huh? What do you mean? We're... oh shit." Spike had taken a look around and found The Captain's fears to be true. The path they had walked to arrive looked like all the other paths around them. Bones were everywhere which covered their tracks and the ones he had stepped on were cloaked by the ones pushed to the top by their steps.

"Try using your heat vision thing. Maybe we can find the trail back."

"As much as I would love to do that. My eyes are still sore from last time so no can do."

"You mean to tell me we've got to wait for your eyes to get better until we can find our way out?"

"Well, don't look at me. I was hoping you knew the way out already."

"How could I if I've never been allowed here at all?"

"Good point." Spike sighed and lifted the torch to cover a wider range. They had come to a four way in their lack of attention to the twists and turns of the place.

"Well, we can either try to retrace our steps somehow or we can choose one of the other three ways. What do you think Captain?"

"We came to investigate since you said there might be some clues here or the mine. It would do us no good if we just went back without anything. Let's just keep going, I'm sure that we'll find something that will help us get out in time."

"I hope so."

After a brief argument on which direction to proceed they decided to continue down the left path. The journey was silent despite their previous conversation as they tried to pay attention to where they were going and leave marks on the bare parts of the wall using Spike's ink.

"Now that I think about it, what exactly are we looking for?" The Captain asked stepping over a skull in his path.

"Anything that has to deal with Calcium Carbide. Since it was used in Carbide lamps, which, were used mainly in places like this and mines. If we can find some clue as to where the source comes from or any lamps that might have been used recently then we can infer that there has to be somepony coming into places like this or the mines. Though, with the guards outside, it'll leave the question as to how they do it completely open."

"Okay. I think I get it. Have you figured out any connection between the murders?"

"Between the first and the last murder? Nothing. Those two couldn't have come into contact at all considering their locations. It must be something I'm missing. Who else was killed?"

"Three others were killed between the first and the fifth. The second death was a guard returning from his time at mine duty. The poor bastard made it halfway back and was found after he didn't show up for roll call. We can check the site when we head to the mine."

"The other two?"

"A young couple, their bodies were halfway between town and Lady Sweet's manor. The manor is located near a lake that seems to be popular for dates. All the bodies were found mutilated and burned. We couldn't find anything different from the first murder so we chalked it up to being the same culprit. It wasn't until the gardener that Lord Swain started to get involved."

"You mean he just left everything as it was? Did he not order a search or investigation?"

"Not exactly. We, the guard, did our jobs respectively but when Lord Swain got involved we found ourselves with more resources than we could waste."

"Why only when the gardener was killed?"

"My thinking is that it was too close to Lady Sweet. As hateful as Lord Swain might seem; he really isn't that bad of a leader and he certainly loves his sister. They're the only one left in their clan so I figure that was the main reason. Lady Sweet has it in her head that it was because the gardener knew Swain as well since he was young and this is more of a means to avenge him."

"I sincerely doubt it had anything to do with the gardener." Spike marked another wall as they came to a large open area of the catacombs. "Still, it really doesn't make any sense. A farmer's daughter, a guard, a couple, and a gardener. None of these ponies seem to have anything in common."

"We're still trying to investigate other possible connections. The only lead we have so far is that the guard and the stallion from the couple were both part of the same unit."

"So two guards... maybe... maybe they talked about something or found something. Argh! Too many questions and not enough clues!"

"Clues! Clues! clues..." the roomed echoed back as the pair reached the center to find nothing as Spike raised the torch once more.

The enhanced light revealed the room to be completely barren. The walls were not filled with bones or skulls and the floors were only paved in dust. They looked from their center position and found nothing as the echo finished.

"I wonder what kind of use this room was to ponies." Spike asked as he walked towards the back wall as the light didn't completely catch the edges.

"No idea. It's disturbing enough having to see the skulls facing us as we walk by and stepping on what were once their bodies. I can't even begin to imagine what use an empty room like this was." True Shot walked to the back left corner as Spike walked towards opposite side.

They met in the middle only to find nothing other than stone and dust rather than something that might lead to a break in the case.

"How big is this place anyways?"

"According to records; we've only got ten miles of the place explored. Some records state that it stretched all the way back to town and others showed it was only five miles long."

"That's pretty unreliable."

"Can't say I blame the record keepers. The town has been raided plenty in the past and along with the occasional quake cave ins would be the norm."

"Hmm." Spike brought a hand to his chin as he gave the place a once over again. "Forget it. I think it's best we check the mine as this place is just too large and unknown. By the time we do find something it'll be the day of my execution."

"Roger that. Let's.... hold on." True Shot stopped in mid stride as he planted all hooves on the ground.

"What are you...?"

"Shh."

The pair stood in silence for a few minutes with Spike wondering if the stress was getting to the Captain.

"There's a breeze in this room." True Shot finally said as he walked towards the left wall.

"What? A breeze? Don't you think it's just the delayed wind from the entrance?"

"No. It's incredibly weak and only comes up to my hooves. It's coming from this side of the room." The Captain started to slide across the wall slowly stopping every other step in order to feel the breeze in question.

Spike watched the stallion continue until he'd stopped near the edge of the entrance to the room.

"Here!"

Joining the Captain; Spike looked around the wall to find nothing out of the ordinary, much like his initial sweep. It wasn't until he searched the ground that he found a spot completely devoid of dust. He bent down and took some of the dirt around him to leave at the spot and saw it being blown away slowly.

"Damn. Good catch Captain. Let's see if there's a switch or something nearby."

"No need."

"Huh?"

Spike watched as the pony reared up and struck the wall with all his might making a resounding boom echo across the entirety of the area. The wall was left with a large crack where he had hit and another strike allowed a hole to form. It was small at first but, with the help of several other strikes around it, the wall crumbled and a cloud of dust filled the air leaving the two coughing and the torch extinguished.

"Fuck! It's in my eye! Sweet Celestia, give a guy a warning next time!" Spike yelled as he tried to blink the dust from his eyes.

"Who? and for that matter; who the hay is Nightmare Moon? Actually, nevermind. I don't think I want to know. Let's just continue on; it seems like this new opening leads down for some time."

The hole in catacomb wall had opened to a rocky path lit by small luminous mushrooms scattered all around the ground and walls. There was enough of them to keep the path lighted for what seemed miles. They walked through the fungus and kept on eye out for anything suspicious but, much like the place leading to their present location, nothing stood out. Eventually the mushrooms were becoming few and far between and True Shot took out another torch to light.

"Wait." Spike said as he grabbed the torch from the stallion. "Did you hear that?" his frills started to move slightly as he lifted a claw to his mouth to signal being quiet.

They moved forward into the looming darkness silently and Spike switched to his thermal vision once the black consumed them. Eventually, they came close enough to hear the noise that Spike had cautioned about and stayed low as they rounded a corner. In front of them the walls were beginning to be pockmarked by gems.

The gems were emitting light much like the mushrooms they'd previously encountered. Before either of them did anything else a large tremor rocked the area. The two braced themselves and heard hoofsteps come closer. They retreated towards the shadows as a large figure that was too far to make out walked by the end of the cave. The hoofsteps stopped somewhere down the way and silence once again blanketed the area.

The pair began to slowly come out from their hiding only to brace themselves once more as another tremor threatened the closed quarters with a cave in. As it concluded a guttural howl echoed all around them. The hoofsteps began once more and started to dissipate as they waited for whatever they saw to get further away. The two walked over towards the end of the cavern and they each checked the sides as it came to a fork. Each side had a large crumbling opening as a result of whatever they had encountered.

"What do you make of it?"

"I've seen a figure like that before, but I can't quite remember where." Spike examined the opening and moved as a stray gem fell.

He went to pick it up only find some stray hairs on the ground. He got a a napkin out and placed them inside before storing them away as True Shot came up next to him.

"Find something?"

"Yea. Found some hairs; possibly belonging to whatever that thing I can't remember was."

"Hairs aren't exactly the best form of evidence. We need something more concrete if you want to be alive by the end of tomorrow. If anything, we should go and catch whatever the owner of these holes is that passed."

"True. It might not be the best but I know somepony that could be of help in finding out what that thing was before we try and capture it."

"Oh? I'm not aware of any pony other than myself and Lady Sweet that would begin to offer assistance."

"I know. That's why I think it's time for me to send a letter."

Author's Note

Nothing much to say. Trying to finish up with the time I have available.

As always, thank you for taking the time to read my story. Please leave a comment or critique below as any critique helps me grow as a writer. Have a great day!