Come Home Soonby EkhidnaChaptersFirst LetterSecond LetterThird LetterEpilogueFirst LetterCome Home Soon Spike sat in front of his desk reading and signing various reports from his troops. He had been doing it for the past couple of hours and, judging the size of the stack of papers to his left, a few hours still remained until he was done. He placed the latest scout report he had read on top of his desk. He signed it and then put it atop the smaller stack of papers to his right. There was a knock at his door just as he grabbed the next report. “Come in.” Spike said without looking at the opening door. “Sir, sorry to interrupt your work, but you have mail.” A unicorn mare clad in light steel armor and a leather bag filled with letters at her left side said walking to the desk. “Thank you. You can leave it there.” Spike said never taking his eyes off from the report he was reading. The mare placed a small stack of envelopes on his desk and then quickly left the room. Spike continued to work, occasionally turning a report or two to ashes, until he was done. Placing the last report on the stack on his right he allowed himself to lean back on his seat while a long, heavy sigh escaped his lips. He stretched popping several of his joints and back grunting in satisfaction as he did so. He then slumped down on his seat for several minutes until he reached for a the drawer to his left. Reaching inside, he moved his hand around searching for something until he pulled out a bottle of apple cider made in Sweet Apple Acres. The dragon clad in leather armor with a chainmail over it pulled out the cork of the bottle before gulping down half of the refreshing liquid in one go. “That hits the spot!” Spike exclaimed putting the bottle on the desk while he straightened his posture on the chair. He waited a few moments before taking the bottle again and drank the rest of his cider, albeit actually enjoying it this time. Once he was done, he threw the bottle to a nearby trash bin. He then looked around his small office finding it empty as always. Well, not completely empty. There was the chair at the other side of his desk and two extras near the wall, the desk, the trash bin, a lightbulb hanging from the ceiling, an Equestrian flag on the wall, a desk lamp, and three pictures. One was of him in his previous small form and the girls waving to the camera. The second one was of his mother, Celestia, with a mouthful of cake looking quite embarrassed. The third one was of him saluting while wearing a set of Royal Guard armor. Reaching for the first photo, he traced his thumb over the glass while smiling at it. After a couple of seconds he put it next to the other photos. He was about to pull back when he noticed the letters. “Huh, I forgot about those.” Spike said to himself before reaching further to retrieve them. “Let’s see what we got here.” He leaned back on his seat counting four letters in total. Reading who the first one was from caused him to groan. “How is it that even here I still get this junk?” Spike asked to no one seeing the letter was from a magazine he had subscribed by accident a few years ago. Spike had cancelled his subscription the following week, but they still sent him letters asking him if he wanted to renew his subscription for some reason. He set it on fire without a second doubt. Moving to the second letter made him forget his sour mood. “Has it been two weeks already?” He chuckled opening it and unfolding the letter. He read the contents mumbling as he did stopping only to laugh or hum at certain points. “‘With love, Twilight Sparkle.’ Good to hear the girls are doing well back home.” He set the letter on his desk. “I’ll write back tomorrow, I promise.” He then moved to the third letter, this one belonging to Celestia herself putting another smile on his face. Unfolding the letter he read the usual content his mother’s letters came with; basically asking him how he was, if he was comfortable, eating well, keeping his soldiers in line, etc. Usual stuff. “Why do they keep sending me these letters through the mail system when they could send them directly and be over with? I mean, Twilight I can sorta understand, but mom? They’ve been doing it since the war started.” Spike read the letter of his mother again before setting his sights on his third picture. The war...It’s been over a year since it started. Wow, a whole year already. Feels like it was just yesterday I was cooking dinner back in the castle. Spike thought setting his mother’s letter next to Twilight’s. The war had struck swiftly. Looking back it still seemed so unreal. It started with the changelings kidnapping and assassinating several griffons and ponies near the borders of the Badlands. Both sides sent a joint force to rescue the survivors, a task in which they succeeded. Sadly, the changelings and their Queen, Chrysalis, had perpetrated those crimes in order to create a distraction...and use said distraction to kidnap the Prince of the Griffon Kingdom for unknown purposes. Too bad for them the Prince was a fearsome fighter, so instead of kidnapping him the prince went down fighting alongside at least two hundred of his guards. Two days later the griffons declared war on the Changeling Hives. Almost immediately after, the Diamond Dog Empire and the Minotaur Monarchy, old enemies of the griffons, declared war to Gryphos siding with the changelings. As a result the griffons called upon their long lasting allies for support. And thus Equestria, the Crystal Empire, and Zebrica answered the call declaring war on the three enemy nations. The rest of the nations across Equis decided to remain neutral seeing the conflict didn’t affect them directly. The following month Equestria suffered numerous attacks from its enemies on all sides despite the efforts of local militias, the army, and the Royal Guards. The worst attack, however, was the sacking of Trottingham by diamond dog forces and the kidnapping of several thousands of ponies at the hands of the changelings. That ignited the flame the rest of Equestria needed take up arms against their enemies, managing to push back the relative small enemy forces inside their land. The following week there were kilometer long lines outside the enlistment centers all over Equestria and the Crystal Empire. He had planned to join the army but Celestia informed him that, since he was a member of the Royal Family (even if it was not yet of public knowledge), he technically couldn’t join the army unless he renounced his title. Luckily for him he could join the Royal Guard despite being a prince, much like Blueblood did. Having grown up under Celestia’s care, having the big brother figure and example in Shining Armor, being taught by Twilight, the will to fight for his home and protect those precious to his heart allowed him to rise far and above the rest of his peers. So much so that he reached the rank of Commander in record time, a position second only to Captain in the Royal Guard. At first Celestia had attempted to keep him close, but not even she could deny his talents and his unexpected tactical ingenuity. His friends had also attempted to join in the fight, but being the Bearers of the Elements meant they helped more back home than in the front lines, especially with Twilight being a princess. Rainbow Dash and Applejack didn’t like it, but they promised the princesses they would obey them despite wanting to fight. Before his departure he made a promise with Twilight to write to each other every two weeks to catch up and to see how they were doing. He hugged his loved ones goodbye ready to do his part in the war. And so he was sent to the Crescent Fortress to watch, and intercept if necessary, diamond dog forces attempting to invade from the south entrance. The Crescent Fortress, blocking off one of the few (and fastest) passages in the south to Equestria, was an ugly piece of marvel masterfully carved in the valley of two huge mountain chains that extended hundreds of kilometers at both sides. Meaning that not even the diamond dogs could dig their way through or below them, forcing them to either take the longer routes or try their chances taking down the fortress. They had already attempted it three times while under his command. And three times they had failed. Sadly, the fortress was not impugnable, although the walls were thick and solid like granite, and the temperature was tolerable all year long, it wasn’t really that big in overall size. Being capable of housing up to three thousand units, plus the surrounding terrain was awful making farming impossible. Not to mention the nearest village was almost a week long trip back, forcing them to rely on supply lines to feed and arm the stationed army. It also meant that reinforcements were unlikely to come to their aid on time. Luckily for him and his one thousand troops, the diamond dogs were busy fighting against the allied forces and trying to take far more important strategic places, or trying to gain entrance from the other roads. Which were even more heavily guarded, but still offered more tactical options than just a headstrong assault. That was fine with him. He wasn’t dying to face a well trained, well supplied army big enough to lay siege for days, maybe even weeks, on end without giving him or his troops time to rest anytime soon. His troops could retreat safely back to Equestria thanks to the protection and cover of the fortress, sure, but not without leaving a small force behind to repeal the aggressors to ensure the safety of those retreating. “That'll be over my dead body.” Spike snarled angrily. He had already lost over a hundred soldiers during the last defences, and was unwilling to sacrifice his troops to save his own scales if the worst came to happen. Shaking his head a few times he regained his composure. Feeling calm once again he placed his mother’s letter next to Twilight’s. “Alright, last one.” Spike did a double take reading from who was from. “What the...it’s from Rarity?” Taking the letter, and placing aside three blank photos barely small enough to fit the envelope, he began to read. It struck him as odd that Rarity would send him a separate letter after their...last meeting before he left. “Dearest Spike. This is my fourth attempt to write to you, not for lack of want, mind you, but because I couldn’t find the words to properly describe what I want to express. Darling, after you left I couldn’t stop thinking about you and your well being. So much so that I went to see Princess Celestia herself to put my mind at ease. She assured me that you were performing your duties admirably, and while you weren’t away from harm, you were on a safe position. A week later Twilight informed us about your first battle against the diamond dog forces attempting to overpower your fortress. Twilight, bless her heart, was quick to point out you were unharmed and managed to bravely send those despicable ruffians running with their tails between their legs. As Twilight mentioned, we celebrated your victory throwing a quaint small party in her castle. What you may not know is that nightmares plagued my mind for several days after. All of them showing me horrible scenarios of you not coming back to us. To me. Then I learned about your second and third battle. I was overjoyed to know you held your position despite the loss of those brave souls, but at the same time I dreaded my nightmares would become a reality. Day after day I prayed to every divine creator to protect you. Until finally something dawned at me. Spike, sweetheart, precious scales. I’m so sorry. I’m sorry for not realising sooner what you really mean to me. For ignoring your advances and pushing you aside like you were a mere object. Darling, it was never my intention to make you feel unwanted or used in any way. I was afraid to look past my own fear and doubts, too stupid to see you for what you truly are. Like a fool I distanced myself from you when your body changed to match your spirit and mind. I was so torn inside, Spike. Half of me wanted to be at your side. While the other wanted to hide away. And like a cowardly, pathetic fool I allowed my own doubts and fear to choose over my own heart. Even when you departed and you...and you confessed your love for me I couldn’t help but run away. Spikey-Wikey. I don’t know if your own precious heart holds a special place for me in it after the terrible things I’ve done. If you still harbor feelings for me then keep reading. Otherwise, stop now and burn this letter. I enchanted it with a spell Twilight taught me, so the moment you burn it a lit candle linked to it in my room will extinguish itself. That way I will know that I have lost my chance to earn your affections.” “Rarity…” Spike whispered her name while his lips started to form a smile. His heart pounding against his ribcage like never before. “Of course I still love you. I have never stopped, even for a second.” He said to the letter before continuing. “Spike. My sweet, kind, generous Spike. If you are reading this, then it means I can still dare hope to embrace you once you come back to me. To give you the love you deserve and I yearn to give. To feel your lips against mine as time itself vanishes around us. To hold your hand as we walk together against all odds. To lay together in bed; sweaty, out of breath, and satisfied after making love for hours on end while you whisper sweet nothings to my ear. Spikey-Wikey. Please believe these words that so much strife caused me to properly spell, for they come from the deepest center of my heart. I love you. I’ve fallen in love with you without me even noticing until now. My past infatuations can’t compare in the slightless to what I feel for you, my love. Describing how or why I love you would be insulting. For we both know of that seed you nurtured within me, and that has blossom to become the most beautiful fruit I’ve seen. Love of my life, I cannot wait until you wrap your arms around my body, protecting me from all harm while at the same time your embrace showers me with your warmth and love. Alas, you’re far away from my side, performing your royal duty in protecting our homeland from our vile, repugnant enemies. Spike, I don’t care what your orders may be or what you must do. I want you to come back to me no matter the circumstances. Do whatever you must do, my fanged sweetheart. I shall wait eagerly for your reply and pray for your safe return. Forever yours, Rarity Belle Unicorn. PS.- This letter had another enchantment placed on it. I hope they are to your enjoyment, darling, and that they help ‘inspire’ you to come back home safe and sound.” “YES!” Spike roared while small streams of fire emerged from his nostrils. “YEEEESSSS!” He roared even louder almost shattering his windows. He then jumped tumbling his seat back before landing in the middle of his office. “Sweet Celestia, yes!” Suddenly his doors burst open with three soldiers, two white pegasi stallions and a grey unicorn mare, entering holding their weapons out. “Sir, we heard you--AHHH!” The mare was cut off as Spike took a hold of her, hugging her close with one arm while shoving the letter to her face with the other. “She loves me! She really loves me!” Spike yelled before retreating the letter from the guard’s face. The poor mare could only stare in confusion as her commander gave her the biggest (and creepiest) face-splitting smile she had ever seen. “Uhhh...what?” “Rarity! Rarity said she loves me!” Spike said hugging the soldier mare. “I’m...glad for you...sir?” “I gotta tell mom! I gotta tell Cadance! I gotta tell Discord! Wait, forget Discord. I gotta tell Twilight!” Spike yelled before giving the mare a kiss ending it with a loud *MUAH*. “Go tell the garrison and the rest of the troops that they have my permission to bring out the hard cider. And the wine too while they’re at it: ON ME!” The two pegasi shared a short glance between themselves. “All of it, sir?” “ALL OF IT!” Spike yelled handing them the frozen, wide-eyed, muttering mare to her fellow soldiers. “You’re still here? Go!” “Sir, yes sir!” The two soldiers saluted before darting out of the office carrying their seemingly paralyzed comrade. Alone once more Spike hugged the letter humming a chirpy tone as he did. After a few moments he read through the letter once more with a massive grin on his face. Eventually he reached the end of the letter, his expression changing to one of confusion. “Another enchantment? For my enjoyment? Help inspire me? What are you talking about, Rarity?” Spike read the letter two more times before he looked at his desk and noticed the other two letters and the small blank photos he pulled out in the beginning. A blush crossed his face while his legs moved on their on walking toward his desk; his tail wagging ever so slightly behind him. He noticed the photos were face down once he was close enough. So, with a nervous gulp he pulled up his seat, sat on it, and then reached for the photos. Turning them over he gave out a raspy gasp and his eyes turned wide when he saw the top one. It was a photo of Rarity on her knees wearing a size too small black garter belt complete with socks and gloves. The socks covered her legs from little above the middle of her thighs down to her hooves. Her arms were covered from a few inches above her elbows, they were raised and rested on her trademark mane style that he liked so much. She was blushing while smiling at the camera with half lidded eyes, the only makeup he could notice were her signature eyelashes and light blue eyeshadow. Her impressive F-cup breasts were held tightly in place by her frilly bra that matches her panties, that honestly looked more like a thong than regular panties. Her toned, slick belly was accentuated by her firm, strong hips and nearly hourglass curves. A testament of the daily hard work she did to keep her alluring figure. “By the Moon.” Spike said before his shaky hands moved the photo away to see the second one. His tail instantly went rigid behind him upon seeing the next photo. This time Rarity was standing up facing away from the camera. She was wearing what he guesses were the same black bra and thong. Her mane was held up in a ponytail, while she was looking back at the camera with a tiny smirk and half lidded eyed. She was pulling down the top string supports of her bra; her pose and stance serving only to showcase her curves even more than in the first photo. What made him drool, however, was her rather generous, firm looking, soft, squishy, perfectly round derriere. The middle line of her thong was lost in between her marvelous lower marshmallows. He barely registered the fraction of her cutie marks that could be seen on the sides of her tush. Spike blinked for the first time since he sat down before he slowly moved the second photo to see the third and last one. It took his brain a moment to take in what he was seeing, and when it did, his heart nearly jumped up his throat. Rarity was laying on her side and on her fluffy pink robe over her own bed, whilst wearing absolutely nothing as a few rays of sun illuminated her form. She was glancing back at the camera with a playful, sultry look and a knowing smile. He could see her generous buttocks, her curvaceous body, her slender yet strong legs, her clean, well kept hooves, fur, and blocking tail. Spike’s right hand began to move on it’s own down the desk feeling his pants were strangely tight for some reason. “Sir!” “It wasn’t me!” Spike blurted out hiding the photos inside his chestplate. After a few seconds he cleared his throat. “What do you need, Stalwart?” “Sir, the troops are wondering if your orders were accurate?” The brown coated earth pony stallion wearing a royal guard armor asked with a Trottingham accent. “They are. Tell them to enjoy themselves but that rule seventy seven still is up, alright? And tell them that I’ll join the party in a few minutes.” “By your command.” The guard saluted. “Oh, and congratulations, sir.” “Thanks, Stalwart.” Spike waited until the earth pony, his most experienced lieutenant, exited his office and closed the door as he left. Spike pulled the photos out again and spent the following couple of minutes staring at them one by one over and over. When he felt he had enough, he put the photos inside his drawer. He then took a clean parchment, a bottle of ink, and a quill. “My dearest Rarity...No. Rarity of my heart...Too cheesy.” He muttered staring at the piece of paper. “ ‘My Fairest Lady.’ Now that’s more like it. ” With a good start, Spike began to write his reply. Author's Note Special thanks to anyone that read this! Special thanks to Trithtale for proofreading and minor editing! Second Letter“Have I done something wrong, Commander?” A unicorn gray coated soldier mare with brown eyes and golden mane and tail asked while she sat in front of the desk of her commander. “You have done nothing wrong, Comet Star.” Spike sighed scratching the back of his neck. An uncomfortable ambience could be felt between the two. “Shucks. Look, I know you’ve been avoiding me for the past two weeks. And I have done my best to put you at a distance, but this has to stop.” Comet Star looked at Spike with a sheepish expression. Blushing cheeks and all. “Comet Star, I’m sorry I kissed you they way I did.” Spike said with a matching blush. “N-no need to apologize, sir!” Comet Star raised her hands shaking them from side to side in front of her. “You w-were happy, that’s all! I understand! I did the same when my coltfriend confessed-” “Sweet Celestia, you have a coltfriend!?” Spike rubbed his templates. “Please tell me you didn’t tell him.” “Of course I didn’t, sir! As I said, I did the same when he confessed to me.” Comet Star covered her eyes in embarrassment. “I--I grabbed his sister and kissed her right in front of him before I jumped to his arms!” Spike stared at her for several seconds, his mouth agape. “...You kissed another mare after he confessed, in front of him, with said mare being his sister no less?” Comet Star nodded. “Hot.” “SIR!” Comet Star yelled covering her entire face. “Sorry! Sorry!” Spike cleared his throat. “Then why have you been avoiding me given your, ehem, experience?” “‘Cause I knew how you felt, sir.” Comet Star answered after a moment of recollection. “I couldn’t look at my coltfriend for an entire month after that.” “How...considerate of you, Comet Star.” Spike leaned back on his chair. “Let’s put that behind us, don’t you agree?” Comet Star nodded. “Good, now return to your duties. You can have the day off tomorrow, alright?” “Sir, yes sir. Thank you, sir.” Comet Star stood up and walked towards the exit. Before she opened the door she turned back to glance at Spike. “And sir? Congratulations. Lady Rarity is lucky to have you.” She then left leaving Spike alone in his office. “No. I’m the lucky one.” Spike whispered to himself. After a few minutes of simply enjoying the silence and calm his office provided, Spike reached for his left drawer and opened it. He reached into it, a moment later he pulled out the letter Rarity sent him two weeks ago. After he finished writing his own reply, he sent it via his fire to Celestia asking her to please give it to Rarity on his behalf. He also asked Rarity in the letter to use the normal mail system to avoid disturbing Celestia any further. He was about to open the letter to look through the ‘inspiration’ photos Rarity had sent him, when a loud knock to his door made his shove the letter back into his drawer. “Who is it?” He asked in a calm, cool voice despite closing his drawer with a shaky hand. “Stalwart, sir. May I come in?” “You may.” Spike watched the earth pony enter and salute him. “At ease.” “Sir, one of our scouts has returned from his mission. But there’s something strange about him.” “Which is?” “Sir, the scout is a crystal pony and gave us a valid code. Not only that, but he claims he can only talk to you in person. He’s waiting outside the front doors for you.” “What is the name of that scout?” “Crystal Hoof, sir.” Stalwart was confused when Spike smirked as he got up. “Sir, with all due respect I do believe this might be a trap.” “Nonsense, Crystal Hoof is a good friend of mine.” Spike said while Stalwart opened the door for him. The two of them made their way to the courtyard and passed through the gate of the fortress leading to the south and onto diamond dog territory. They soon saw a blue coated crystal pony standing a good thirty or so meters away from the fortress. The pony had a two shade gray mane and tail, he also was wearing light leather armor with a hooded cape while a cutlass hanged on his left side. “Crystal Hoof!” Spike called opening his arms. “Spike!” The crystal pony ran to meet the dragon with a tight hug. “I’m so glad you’re alright!” “I’ll say! I was worried you were caught or worse.” Spike broke the hug. “Princess Cadance sent me on a long mission to the Dog Empire. She ordered me to keep an eye on any suspicious movements they were making.” Crystal Hoof explained as the trio made their way back inside the fortress. “Let me guess, they’re up to no good?” “It’s worse than that. That’s why I came here instead of reporting back to Princess Cadance.” “I see.” Spike closed his eyes for a moment. “Everypony, come here!” “SIR, YES SIR!” Was the instantaneous reply. Not one minute later every soldier and guard in the fortress was paying attention and watching from anywhere they could find to their commander. “Everypony, this is Crystal Hoof. One of my best friends, a trusted scout and friend of Princess Cadance, and one of our best spies.” Spike placed an arm around Crystal Hoof’s shoulders. “And he’s a changeling.” On queue Crystal Hoof dropped his disguise revealing a changeling waving shyly. “Everypony, this is Thorax!” “Hurrah!” “Alright, alright, settle down. Thorax, what did you discover?” Spike asked loud enough for his troops to hear. Inside, he was smiling seeing his soldiers cheering for the friendly changeling. Thorax stopped waving, his look and expression turning more serious. “The diamond dogs are building a secret army that they plan to send to the southern frontier. I don’t know how strong or when they’re going to send it, but I know they’re coming.” The soldiers and guards began to whisper and murmur between themselves. “Then we must send a message to the other entrances so that they can be prepared and alert. Asking for reinforcements would be a good idea, commander.” Stalwart said rubbing his chin. “See that the other entrances receive this information, Stalwart. I’ll take care of asking for reinforcements.” Spike then turned to everypony. “Well? Didn’t you listen? Go back to your posts and reinforce everything. Move, move, move!” Spike ordered. His troops saluted before retiring to fulfill their orders. “What about you, Thorax?” “I’d like to stay here and help you out, Spike. Maybe I can find out more about whatever they’re planning.” “What about Cadence and your orders?” “I’m sure Princess Cadance will understand if I explain it. Spike, I have a bad feeling about what those dogs could be doing.” “That makes two of us then.” Spike chuckled. “And of course you can stay, Thorax. Why don’t you go search for a bunk and get settled in? After that you can search for Stalwart, my second in command, and ask him to give you new armor before you write that report to Cadance?” “I’ll do just that, Spike.” The two friends shared another short hug. “By the way, I can smell a lot of love around you, what’s that all about?” Spike smirked. “My fair Rarity has finally given into my irresistible masculinity and devilish handsomeness.” He said beaming with pride. “Oh...oh….Oh!...I owe Shining Armor fifty bits now.” Thorax murmured the last part. “What was that?” “N-nothing! I was just, ermmm, saying how happy I am for you, yeah! Ha ha ha, Aha!” “Rrrright…” Spike forced himself to not roll his eyes. “Well, I have a report and a request to write. See you around, Thorax.” “Don’t work too hard, Spike.” Thorax said as they parted ways. Spike made his way back his office, when he turned around the corner leading to it he found the unicorn mare in charge of the mail was walking down the other side of the hallway. “Commander Spike, just the dragon I’ve been looking for.” The mare said once they met outside his office. “I have something for you today!” The mare then handed him a couple of envelopes. “Have a nice day, commander Spike.” “Likewise. And thank you.” Spike then entered his office. He closed the door (mindful to lock it this time), walked to his chair, and sat on it while placing the letters he had received. He placed three letters in from of him. He took the first one on the left and opened it. With an annoyed groan he set it on fire. “Seriously, once I get back I’m going to wherever their headquarters are and demand them to stop sending me those blasted subscriptions.” He then grabbed the next one and opened it. He smiled seeing it was from Twilight explaining how she and the rest of the girls were, the party they held for Rarity confessing her feelings, and how happy she was for him for ‘nailing’ the mare of his dreams. Spike licked his lips before swallowing what felt like a brick. His heart beated with intensity when he grabbed the third envelop. He opened it with shaking hands and pulled out a letter along with four blank photos. Keep it cool, Spike. Keep it cool. You got this. You’re the dragon, you’re the man! He cheered in his head while he placed the blank photos on the desk, opened the letter, and began to read it. “Dearest Spike, My love, I cannot express in words the joy I felt once Princess Celestia personally gave me your letter. Truth be told, I thought your answer would come in the form of a dying flame, but while I held hope that I still held a place in your heart I never once believed your answer would come so soon. Precious scales, once again I ask for your forgiveness for never giving you a chance to hold my heart between your loving, tender, protective claws. For it is now that I’m certain it is where it truly belongs. Just like you gave me your own heart long ago. Spikey Wikey. My Spikey Wikey, the nights are colder here in Ponyville without your care, your love, and your warmth next to me. Around me. Darling, I must confess that after I received your charming and heartfelt letter I felt elated, yet incomplete. That afternoon I went out for a nice relaxing stroll through town. That’s when I met my new best friend. He reminds me so much of you that I couldn’t help to fall completely in love the moment I laid eyes upon him. Using my charms, I brought him home immediately and lured him into my bedroom. Oh, the things we did were positively scandalous! But in every second I couldn’t help but wonder; imagine; envision what you would do to me, love of my life. After we were done we shared a bath until he was sparkling clean, then I placed Little Spikey, my second true love, inside my panty drawer to let him rest at his leisure. That is, until the next night when I thought of your claws tracing my fur and skin. Your scaly lips kissing my own, wondering how marvelous will they feel once we share our first kiss? Will you take and claim me like a gentledrake, or maybe you’re going to ravage me with the sole purpose of breeding me? Will you cuddle and snuggle with me through the night? Will you whisper to me how much you love me as I do the same? Oh my. How embarrassing. I fear I need to use Little Spikey again, darling. I do hope this war ends soon, for I fear Little Spikey might not survive for much longer. Spikey, I’m certain they will be to your liking. I pray for your safety and your safe return, precious scales. Know this, beloved, that even though we are forced to stand apart, we are always together in our hearts. Forever yours and only yours, Rarity Belle Unicorn.” Spike gulped with ragged breathing. “Rarity, you’re an evil, naughty mare.” He said before leaving the letter to rest on the desk. His attention then shifted to the photos. He stared at them for a couple of seconds before grabbing them with the blank back staring at him. He moved his seat forward until he could rest his weight on his elbows. Now in a more comfortable position he flipped them. Spike let out a guttural sounding growl as his eyes laid upon the first picture, which also revealed who ‘Little Spikey’ was. It was photo of Rarity facing away from the camera with a slight inclination to the left. She was looking back at the camera with a sexy little smile, an adorable blush, and half closed eyes. She was completely naked giving him a free view of her left boob. He saw her perky and erect purple nipple while her left hand cupped her breast for a better angle. Near her hand held by her magic was a seven or so inch long purple dragon penis shaped dildo with green lines at its sides. Finally his eyes traced her lovely, squishy, bountiful derriere and her shapely long thighs and legs. A puff of smoke left his nostrils while he moved to see the second photo. He really didn’t want to stop looking at the first one, but he knew it was going to get better if her previous set was anything to go by. He felt his heart skip a beat or two at what he saw in the second photo. This time Rarity was laying on her side facing towards the camera. She was using her right hand to rest her head on while she looked at the camera with a sultry look and deliciously innocent smile. As she laid on her bed, Spike saw her hourglass figure and her curves that screamed to the four winds she was a mare through and through. He traced a claw over her toned belly that didn’t show any trace of extra fat. She indeed had meat on her bones, that was for sure, but only enough to accentuate her figure even more. Her strong, wide hips that he swore were made to bare foals, only served to showcase her firm rump while she laid her left hand over her side. Her thumb clinging to the elastic band of the pink panties she was wearing. Which was the only thing she was wearing. For her F-cup sized breasts rested peacefully like two clouds of heavenly fleshy goodness with one resting over the other, but never sagging. No, her breasts looked firm yet soft to the touch, like two marshmallow mounds ready to be eaten and enjoyed. That wasn’t even adding her alluring and startling purple areolas and nipples that begged to be sucked, pinched, licked, and suckled. If I can bury my face in between her breasts, I can die with no regrets. Spike thought before moving onto the third photo. He actually felt his brain experience a short circuit for a fraction of a second. This time Rarity wasn’t really looking to the camera, but still she had that adorable blush of hers. Her mane and tail were hanging down due to being wet. No doubt she had finished taking a bath. She was wearing a tight fitting magenta towel that fit her like a glove while also doing a terrific job at showing off her curves and her most prominent attributes. He could also see Little Spikey held firmly in her right hand. With a snort of green fire, Spike moved to the fourth and last photo. In this one, Rarity was looking straight to the camera with a sultry look; her mane dry and curled into her prefered style. She was lightly touching her chin with her left index finger and thumb, while at the same time she nibbled on her lower lip. Spike couldn’t see below her belly button, but he was graced with the sight of her perfectly shaped breasts hanging freely. His eyes focused on her hard, erect purple nipples for a few seconds before they moved to her flat stomach. He appreciated her undoubtedly feminine, awestrucking figure once more for several moments before he traveled back to her face. For some reason he couldn’t take his eyes away from hers, it felt like she was watching him through the photo. The Rarity in the photo fluttered her eyelashes and blew a kiss at him. “Nhhnngg--fffuuuuck!” Spike groaned as spurt after spurt of his steaming hot dragon semen landed on the floor of his office. He hit his desk with his forehead while his right hand pumped his member for the last, agonizing spurts and his left held onto the last photo of his beloved Rarity. After taking a moment to calm down and regain some of his composure, Spike looked at the photo of Rarity once more. He stared at it for almost half a minute before putting it down. “I could’ve sworn I saw it wink and blow a kiss at me. Or maybe I was just seeing things.” Spike leaned back on his sit feeling relaxed and relieved for the first time in two weeks. “Sir, are you alright! I thought I heard you curse!” Comet Star said from the other side of the door. “It’s nothing! I’m fine, Comet Star, I, uhhh, took off one of my scales by accident!” Spike lied, startled by the sudden interruption. “Do you require medical assistance, sir?” She asked in a more calmed tone. “That won’t be necessary, Comet Star. You can go back to your duties, no need to worry about me.” “Very well, sir. Sorry for disturbing you, sir” Spike listened how Comet Star walked away until he couldn’t hear her anymore. Letting out a relieved sigh, Spike slumped on his chair. “Dodged an arrow.” He then looked at the impressive mess he recklessly made. “Fuck.” Author's Note Special thanks to anyone that read this! Special thanks to Trithtale for proofreading and minor editing! Third LetterSpike and Stalwart stared into the obscure horizon from the atop the walls of the fortress. Neither of them had said a single word for almost half an hour while in their silent watch. Behind them, the forces in stationed in the fortress were in a hurry handing armor, polishing and sharpening weapons, preparing oil, stacking arrows in quivers and stationary cases along the wall and the towers, reinforcing the gate, storing and preparing thunder, mist, and snow clouds, and readying themselves for battle. It had been a month since Thorax’s arrival. And true to his warning, soon came reports of scouts confirming an army was forming somewhere in diamond dog territory. The problem was that, despite countless efforts from scouts and spies alike, the size of the army and their objective was unknown. They did know, however, that the second oldest son of the diamond dog Emperor was leading said army. Previously that day, they had received a report from an outpost confirming the diamond dog army was on the move, but the destination was unclear. Thanks to Thorax, Spike had received one thousand soldiers as reinforcements, and the rest of the road entrances were on the ready plus receiving reinforcements of their own. “Sir?” A voice broke the relative silence between them. “What is it, Comet Star?” Stalwart asked. “The defences are almost ready, sir. Permission to start taking our posts, sir.” Stalwart looked at Spike for a moment before replying. “Permission granted.” Comet Star saluted before jumping down the edge of the wall, using her magic to slow her fall. Alone once again, Spike gave out a deep sigh. “This doesn’t look good for us, Stalwart.” Spike said uncrossing his arms. “Aye. If they decide to attack us we won’t be able to hold for much. Unless they’re trying to attack us with four or five thousand troops like last times.” The earth pony let out a mirthless chuckle. “Which sounds unlikely, since a freaking prince is leading that army. My bet is that he’s commanding at least fifteen thousand troops.” “Celestia forbids they’re bringing siege equipment.” Spike hummed. “I doubt they’re bringing any if they want to take any of the outposts while they’re unprepared.” Spike sighed, his glare piercing the obscurity of the horizon. “Are you worried about Thorax, sir?” “He should’ve been back two days ago, Stalwart. Of course I’m worried.” Spike grunted. “I shouldn’t have sent him to observe their movements.” “He volunteered, sir. There was nothing you could do.” Stalwart placed a hand over Spike’s shoulder. “Have hope, sir. Thorax is a good soldier and a smart scout.” “I know, I know.” Spike then rubbed his temples. “Stalwart, I’ll be in my office. If anything happens, inform me immediately.” “Sir,” Stalwart saluted while Spike turned around and jumped off of the edge of the wall. Spike made his way back to his office while his soldiers continued their work. He could feel the tension in the air, an almost choking feeling of upcoming dread that tug his heart and everyone else's. He was about to turn the corner of the hallway that lead to his office, when he saw one of the mail ponies handing letters and scrolls to a group of pegasi sharpening their lances. The mail pony noticed him and walked up to him after handing the letters to the pegasi. “Goodnight, sir. I have mail for you.” The unicorn stallion clad in leather armor said while he searched for his package. “I was expecting the caravan until tomorrow morning.” Spike said, patiently waiting for his mail. “The chief decided to force march us, sir. Said you might need the supplies and some good news for once.” “Mhmmm, send him my regards and appreciation, will you? Celestia knows the troops are grateful for it.” “Will do, sir.” The mail stallion said before pulling out six letters folded together. “Here you go, sir.” Spike took the letters and left, leaving the mail pony free to continue doing his work. Spike made his way back to his office undisturbed, entered it, locked the door behind him, and finally slumped on his seat once he reached it. Taking a few minutes to enjoy the relative silence and peace his office offered, Spike closed his eyes and let his mind be free of worries and thoughts for the time being. Feeling he had relaxed enough, Spike put the letters on his desk in a pile and grabbed the top one. He discovered it was a letter from Big Macintosh, offering to send him a crate of cider. Spike smiled placing the letter to his left. He grabbed the next letter and groaned. “Sweet pony feathers,” he sighed before setting the letter on fire. Grabbing the third letter he noticed this one was from Twilight. Reading through it, he noticed it lacked the usual questions and familiar greeting Twilight’s letter always began with. She was direct and to the point, begging him to stay alert and be safe. “Twi…” Spike whispered while he caressed the letter softly. He placed it on top of Big Mac’s letter before moving to the fourth one. He recognized the seal and signature immediately. Opening the letter, he read through it finding it almost identical in nature as Twilight’s. Though it was of no surprise to him. For all her impeccable poker face and calm, controlled poise, Celestia cared deeply for everyone around her, even more so towards her friends and family. “I’ll be fine, mom, I promise.” Spike said before kissing the letter and placing it on the other pile. He knew he couldn’t blame them for being worried. He himself was worried sick for the safety of his troops, for Thorax, for Blueblood, and for everyone fighting in the war, really. Especially after a devastating defeat on the east the zebra armies suffered at the hands of the minotaurs. Prince Blueblood and his army arrived to the battlefield on time to save the zebra generals and what was left of their army from certain death, but not without suffering heavy casualties himself. Fighting against a minotaur army head on was scary enough. But a minotaur army supported by diamond dogs and pumped with changeling venom? That was the stuff of nightmares. Luckily for the allied forces, Shining Armor’s efforts on the north had managed to keep the main forces of Chrysalis at bay and cut off from any immediate aid. Meanwhile, the common frontier shared by the Minotaur Monarchy, the Dog Empire, Equestria, and Gryphos had turned into a tug of war. The bulk forces of the Equestrian and Gryphonian armies, led by Princess Luna and King Blood Talons respectively, were fighting meter by bloody meter against the joint armies of the minotaurs and diamond dogs. That only left the south, it facing skirmishes here and there at best and average assaults at worst. It felt more like a battle of intelligence and espionage most of the time, truth be told. But Spike knew that it was a false tranquillity. The diamond dogs wanted to sneak their way into Equestria, that was no secret. But they couldn’t pull back enough of their forces to form a serious army to attack the south entrances, not without losing the battle against Equestria and Gryphos in the northeast frontier. Plus, the south territories of the diamond dogs had no real strategic value to consider investment on a serious task force without giving them terrain advantage. It was a double edge sword for both sides. “But if they manage to takeover any of our outposts, then they’ll have free passage to Equestria for who knows how long before we can kick them out again.” Spike said to himself before grabbing the fifth letter. He took deep, slow breaths to push those nasty thoughts away. Several moments later, the dragon opened the letter. “They sent me two this time!?” Spike let out a long frustrated groan. He was about to burn the letter to ashes, but then he decided, with a defeated sigh, to open the damn thing and reply them to please stop sending him those bothersome letters once and for all. Reading through the letter though, Spike’s annoyance shifted to curiosity and then interest once he reached the end of it. It surprised him that it wasn’t so much a petition to subscribe to the magazine. Instead, he found it was a formal request to use his image to promote said magazine and the merchandise they sold. “Mmmm...the face for our products...special discounts and free products based on sales...a three point five percent of the monthly profit sums as payment...no tying regulations or contracts and I can quit whenever I want if I choose to...same goes if my image loses steam.” Spike said re-reading the letter trying to find any loopholes or ‘small letter clause’ that could be used against him. “A contract of mutual benefit with no legal bindings forcing either to do something they don’t want to? Sounds good to me.” Spike shrugged and signed the letter where it marked it needed to. Placing the signed letter on the left pile, he then moved to grab the last letter. Spike felt his heart beat faster when he noticed it was from Rarity. Two weeks ago, Rarity didn’t sent him a letter for some reason. He knew it was most likely because she was busy with her own work or something similar. Licking his lips, Spike opened the letter and pulled out a folded piece of paper and six blank photos. The nervous and excited dragon put the photos facing down on his desk while he took a couple of deep breaths to calm himself. After a few moments, Spike opened the letter and began to read. “Dearest Spike, Hello, darling. I do so ever apologize for not sending you a letter last time, my love. Coloratura and Sapphire Shores recruited my help to fashion an entire new line of costumes for a charity and fund raising concert they gave a week ago. Needless to say, fulfilling their costumes demanded my entire attention! But it was so worth it, darling, for the concert was a complete success. And I’m proud to say I helped those two dears with such a noble cause! With that said, I fear I cannot express in words how worried I am for you, darling. Of course, all our friends are worried sick for your safety after Celestia, bless her heart, told us about the possible attack the diamond dogs might be planning. Precious scales. My love. My Spike-Wikey. Do what you must and what you think is the right thing to do, darling. But never forget I’m waiting for you with open arms. Please, I beg of you, come back to me safe and sound. I know it’s a selfish request, my love, but I ask...no, I demand you to do whatever it takes to come back to me at the end of the day. Darling, I must also ask that you forgive the way I have expressed myself in my previous letters. It’s not my intention to make you feel uncomfortable by worded my desire for you, precious scales. You know that I am a lady first and above all else. And a lady must be tempted. Seduced. Romanced. Loved. Before she gives herself entirely to the stallion --or dragon-- of her dreams. I felt awful thinking I was giving you the impression that I was some sort of common whorse. A two-bit lustful mare down the street eager to be plundered by whomever catches her eye. That is, until I realized you have already won the heart of this lady, Spikey-Wikey. That’s why I can say with confidence those words I said during my first letter. The same words you so warmly told me in each of your letters. Knowing they are true and come from the deepest part of my heart and soul. I love you. I love you! I LOVE YOU! I love you, Spike. I want you to hug me at night. I want to be able to kiss you whenever I please. I want to hold hands when we’re out on a date. I want you to touch me, and hug me, and embrace me, and kiss me everyday. I want your sleeping face and your eyes to be the first thing I see each morning. I want us to make love until our bodies go sore. I want to be with you and spend my life at your side, my sweet prince. To give you myself entirely as you do the same for me. That’s why I can say this without doubt or shame: I am yours, Spike. My heart, body, and soul now belong to you, my love. Precious scales, I await your return with all I can muster. I sincerely hope they are to your pleasing and enjoyment. Remember that I am always next to you in heart and spirit. Only yours, Rarity Belle Unicorn.” “I love you too, Rarity. With all of my heart, my fairest lady,” Spike said with a wide, pleasant smile on his face before he closed the letter and kissed her cutie mark-shaped seal. Putting it away on the left pile, he then moved to grab the photos. Spike took a deep breath sensing his heartbeat rising again for a moment. Turning the photos over, his jaw almost dislodged itself when he saw the first picture. It was of Rarity standing next to her ample bed using one hand to support herself against one of the wood pillar adorning the corners. The look on her face was sultry and her eyes were half-lidded. She was wearing a see-through deep cherry colored nightgown. With the pose she was standing on, the nightgown has half open, kind of like a cape would look like. She was also wearing a matching set of thong and a bra. The bra had a small screen of see-through hanging from the bottom to cover her slim stomach. He also noticed her hair was arranged in a more extravagant way with added curls and looking lush and brilliant. He could also tell she was wearing makeup, and although he couldn't see her mouth because it was covered by her hand holding a part of her nightgown, it only served to make her look all the more alluring while adding a sense of sensuality and mystery that made his blood pump faster through his veins. With a loud gulp, he moved to the next photo. His eyes went wide and his irises turned into paper thin slits. Rarity was resting on her back, starked naked, with her legs flexed in the air in a resting manner. She was using one arm to rest her head over, while her other hand cupped her left breast and pinched her erect purple nipple. She was looking at the camera with an expression similar to the first photo, only now Spike could see a matching smile and a mild blush. Her pose made her look like a goddess, and the light of the sun coming from a window behind her only served to add to her sexyness. In her angle, whoever, Spike was able to see her puckered asshole and some of her vulva. Looking closely, he could see a sheen covering her lower lips. It was only then when he noticed Little Spikey almost buried by her tail. “Oh sweet fucking fuck…” Spike murmured feeling one of his eyes twitch while he moved on to the third photo. His tail went rigid when he saw Rarity still laying on her bed, but in a different position. Like in the previous image, she was naked; except this time she was wearing a necklace with an all too familiar Fire Ruby resting in the valley of her breasts. She was lying slightly on her right side with her left left resting over her right one in a way that gave free view to her pussy lips and moist clit. In this pose, her magnificent and shapely waist, thighs, and hips were all the more accentuated and toned than ever before. Half of her face was blocked by a pillow, but the visible half showcased a half-lidded eye and her biting her lower lip ever so softly. Like it was taunting and mocking him for not being there with her in that moment. Spike’s gaze shifted to her tempting and captivating F-cup breasts. They laid there lazily but never sagging. Judging by the lightning in the room and her aroused nipples, Spike deduced with whatever functional part of his brain still left, that she must’ve taken this picture mere moments after the previous one. Moving onto the fourth photo, Spike’s mind became a white haze for a split second. There was no way around to describe what he was seeing. It was Rarity laying on her back, naked, smiling up to the camera while her horn was covered by her luminous magic. Her legs were spread open, her right arm helped to keep her right leg in position while her left arm rested behind her head. In this position and point of view, Spike could see with detail the slightly spread lips of his love around the middle section of Little Spikey. All the while Rarity smiled in a coquettish manner whilst biting a small trend of her mane in between her teeth. Spike spent long, uncounted moments staring into the photo while his brain fought to function again. Ultimately achieving success, Spike regained enough self awareness to move towards the fifth photo. “...” A high pitched whine escaped from his throat and a burst of fire escaped from his nostrils while he gawked at the marvel in front of him. This time Rarity was laying on her side while she looked back into the camera. Spike didn’t know, or cared, if she was naked, because all he could focus on was on her blushing cheeks, her provocative, tempting smile, her half-lidded eyes that were practically looking right back at him, her plump, firm rear, and the fingers spreading her pussy wide. He could see the rose colored insides of Rarity’s marehood. He could even see her slickness and wetness, he saw a couple of strands of her juice creating bridges between her tight looking inner walls. He couldn’t see her puckered rear hole, since it was blocked by her hand, while her tail laid to the side undisturbed. This time, however, Spike was able to catch the Rarity in picture actually wink, lick her lips, spread her pussy further, and blow him a kiss once every couple of seconds. “Holy Tartarus…” Spike murmured, unable to tear his gaze away from the photo while his heart rate now threatened to make his heart explode at any given moment. Not really wanting to move forward, but knowing one photo still remained, he moved the fifth photo away. This one caught him off-guard. In it, Rarity was wearing long purple and green stockings and garterbelt, with a matching thong and bra while she wore her usual makeup and purple lipstick. She was standing with her legs a bit spread apart. Upon closer inspection, he saw that her thong wasn’t actually a thong, but some sort of strap on designed to keep Little Spikey buried deep inside her snatch. He knew this much, because he could see the base of said aptly named dildo bulging on the straps of the ‘thong’ Rarity was wearing. She was looking straight to the camera with an intense blush and a coy, knowing smile. Meanwhile, her hands were busy fondling and playing with her twin set of marshmallowy soft breasts. What surprised him the most was the little message written in the bottom of the photo’s frame. ‘For Spikey-Wikey, my love. Always your bitch. Rarity~’ “FUUUCCCKKK!” Spike cursed/roared as he reached his climax. Thick ropes of steaming dragon baby batter came out bursting from the tip of his thick meat spear. Spike leaned back on his chair pumping his dick for all it was worth. It took him almost a minute to finish and regain his breath and consciousness to re-open his eyes. The first thing he saw was the stains of creamy cum laying over his desk. The puddle in the floor, again. His stained hand, thighs and armor. And the shocked unicorn standing at the other side of the desk. “...Fuck.” Spike whispered seeing none other than Comet Star looking at him with wide eyes. Comet Star was talking, or at least trying to, from how fast that she was babbling. Spike, without any kind of excuse of thought to explain what was happening, simply retracted his now flaccid member back inside his protective scales. Using his fire, the dragon cleansed his own seed from himself, the floor and the table. He then fastened his armor, placed the photo still on his free hand on the left pile, leaned forward to rest his elbow on the desk and cleared his throat. “Is there something you need to tell me, Comet Star?” Spike asked in the most casual manner he could muster. Comet Star, still partially in shock, needed a moment to arrange her thoughts. “M-Major Stalwart s-says T-Thorax has returned, dick. I mean, SIR!” The mare saluted trying to hide her sun hot face. “I’ll be there in a moment.” Spike said getting up and walking past the trembling unicorn. “Oh, and, Staff Sergeant Comet Star?” The wide eyed mare turned to face her commander. “I would appreciate if you forget what you saw and we never bring the subject up again.” Spike opened the door. “In fact, I would be very, very, very grateful, Major Comet Star.” “...” Comet Star blinked for the first time since she entered teleported inside the office. “...Forget a-about what, sir?” She replied in a low voice. “Awesome.” Spike said before stepping out of his office. Closing the door behind him, he silently made his way back to Stalwart. Upon reaching the yard, Spike noticed his troops were starting to take defensive positions. He sighed, and made his way to the top of the wall where Stalwart and a ragged looking Thorax. Neither of them spoke as Spike saw himself a plethora of torches showing up in the horizon. “How many, Thorax?” Spike finally asked in a calm, collected manner. “Almost sixty thousand.” Thorax replied catching his breath. “They didn’t bring any siege equipment other than ladders and a few hand-held rams to speed up their movement.” Thorax explained pulling out a small scroll from his left pouch. Meanwhile, Spike asked Stalwart to hand him his monocular. “Most of the army is made up from mercenaries from other countries. Only the guard of Prince Bulldozer and around two thousand regular soldiers belong to the Dog Empire.” “The odds aren’t in our favor.” Stalwart said taking the scroll from Thorax. “I’m afraid not,” Thorax added looking at Spike. “What are we going to do, Spike?” “...” Spike didn’t reply. Instead he hummed, turned back and handed the monocular back to Stalwart. “Stalwart, what musical instruments have you confiscated?” The earth pony and the changeling shared a short glance. “The usual, sir. Lutes, lyres, a cello-” “What?” Thorax said. “-a few kazoos, a magic powered keyboard, ukuleles, a drum set-” “How!?” Thorax cried. “-violins, a set of plates, a wong, magic powered guitars, and a saxophone, sir.” Spike looked around to see his troops for a few lingering moments before looking at Stalwart and Thorax with a serious expression. “Do you trust me?” “With my life, sir!” “Of course I do, Spike!” Spike then smirked. -------------------------****************************** “What are they planning?” Prince Bulldozer asked looking through his monocular at the Crescent Fortress. “Captain, correct me if I’m wrong, but do you see any guards on the wall because I don’t?” “No, your grace. I don’t see anyone on the walls or the skies.” The dog captain replied looking through his own monocular. “Perhaps they’re retreating, your grace.” “I doubt it. The one defending that fortress is Spike the Dragon. He must be aware that if he retreats, then it’s only a matter of time before we catch up to him and his troops. There must be something else going on.” “I don’t know, you grace.” The captain said while behind them the troops were already setting up the torches and preparing for the upcoming assault. They were a little over a kilometer away from the walls of the fortress. But while it meant their charge would take longer, it also provided a safe distance from their arrows and enough time to warn them of any sneak attacks from the blasted pegasi. Suddenly, all movement around the prince ceased as a sound reached their ears. “Is...is that music?” Bulldozer asked, baffled. A few seconds later the noise became louder followed by faint cheers. “It is music. What in the name of Tartarus is going on?” The army then continued with their work and preparations for almost an hour. All the while they could hear more music, cheering and even laughter coming from the fortress but no visible movement. It confused and irked the prince at the same time. “My Prince, the gates of the fortress are opening!” The captain yelled while Bulldozer looked through his monocular once more. The prince saw a lonely figure walk outside the fortress. He noticed it was an archer given that it set something ablaze before letting it loose sky high. Following the flaming missile until it landed a hundred or so meters in front of them. Bulldozer watched the archer return inside the fortress, yet the gates remained wide open. Ordering to retrieve the arrow, a couple of soldiers went out for it returning a minute or so later with a message attached to the arrow. Prince Bulldozer opened the message and instantly frowned reading what it said. ‘Come on in, we’re having a party. It’s a blast. ~Spike Solaris the Dragon, Prince of Equestria.’ “What...” Bulldozer mumbled before looking through his monocular at the fortress. This time he saw someone, no, somedragon on what appeared to be the edge of the wall above the entrance. He could see said dragon moving, twirling, and jumping from stone to stone while holding onto something. “Is he playing a saxophone?” The captain asked to himself while he watched the dragon play said instrument with, judging the way he moved, vigorous enthusiasm. “Your grace, shall we begin the attack?” No response. “Your grace?” The captain called a few seconds later. He looked up to Prince Bulldozer and found him clenching his jaw and sweating slightly. End. Author's Note Special thanks to anyone that read this! Special thanks to Ebony Stallion for proofreading and minor editing! EpilogueEpilogue To say Rarity was giddy would be an understatement. The war had ended three days ago by the capture, and public execution, of Queen Chrysalis in a surprising assault delivered by Shining Armor and King Blood Talons, aided by changeling rebels. After Chrysalis was beheaded by Blood Talons himself, the Changeling Hives surrendered. Shortly after the Diamond Dog Empire surrendered when their emperor and two of his three sons were captured after a crushing defeat that also forced the minotaurs to pull back and eventually surrender as well. With the war now over, leaving a few pockets of enemy resistance here and there, the Princesses and other leaders and politicians would determine the next step to be taken. But to her it only meant that her Spikey-Wikey was going to come back. She had been worried sick for days, weeks. Until Celestia personally gathered the Element Bearers to tell them how Spike had tricked Prince Bulldozer and his army of sixty thousand soldiers. Despite the great risk it meant, Spike had ordered his troops to celebrate and party like never before. He even sent an invitation to Prince Bulldozer himself telling him to come inside and join the party, while also revealing his royal status to the prince. It was a risky gamble from Spike’s part, but it paid off. Prince Bulldozer, aware of the ferocity of the dragon during his previous defences, eventually ordered a retreat before sunrise, certain it was trap orchestrated by Spike. Him revealing his status only cemented Bulldozer’s fears. A month later the war came to its swift, decisive end. Today, Rarity was getting ready to leave for Canterlot to attend to the victory speech. She was relieved but saddened, Spike would not be back until a couple of weeks later. Especially since he and Celestia had to discuss the use of his ‘tactic’. She was almost ready, wearing a stylish full body blue dress, when she heard a knock on her door. “A moment please~” She called adjusting her dress before opening her door. “Yes? How may I...help…” Rarity was cut off when she was greeted by Spike himself wearing his armor and looking at her with a soft smile. “S-Spike?” It was all Rarity could say before the dragon in front of her gave a wide fang filled smiled and wrapped his arms around her, making her yelp in surprise. He lifted her up with little effort and used his tail to close the door behind them. End. Author's Note Special thanks to anyone that read this! Special thanks to Ebony Stallion for proofreading and minor editing!
First LetterCome Home Soon Spike sat in front of his desk reading and signing various reports from his troops. He had been doing it for the past couple of hours and, judging the size of the stack of papers to his left, a few hours still remained until he was done. He placed the latest scout report he had read on top of his desk. He signed it and then put it atop the smaller stack of papers to his right. There was a knock at his door just as he grabbed the next report. “Come in.” Spike said without looking at the opening door. “Sir, sorry to interrupt your work, but you have mail.” A unicorn mare clad in light steel armor and a leather bag filled with letters at her left side said walking to the desk. “Thank you. You can leave it there.” Spike said never taking his eyes off from the report he was reading. The mare placed a small stack of envelopes on his desk and then quickly left the room. Spike continued to work, occasionally turning a report or two to ashes, until he was done. Placing the last report on the stack on his right he allowed himself to lean back on his seat while a long, heavy sigh escaped his lips. He stretched popping several of his joints and back grunting in satisfaction as he did so. He then slumped down on his seat for several minutes until he reached for a the drawer to his left. Reaching inside, he moved his hand around searching for something until he pulled out a bottle of apple cider made in Sweet Apple Acres. The dragon clad in leather armor with a chainmail over it pulled out the cork of the bottle before gulping down half of the refreshing liquid in one go. “That hits the spot!” Spike exclaimed putting the bottle on the desk while he straightened his posture on the chair. He waited a few moments before taking the bottle again and drank the rest of his cider, albeit actually enjoying it this time. Once he was done, he threw the bottle to a nearby trash bin. He then looked around his small office finding it empty as always. Well, not completely empty. There was the chair at the other side of his desk and two extras near the wall, the desk, the trash bin, a lightbulb hanging from the ceiling, an Equestrian flag on the wall, a desk lamp, and three pictures. One was of him in his previous small form and the girls waving to the camera. The second one was of his mother, Celestia, with a mouthful of cake looking quite embarrassed. The third one was of him saluting while wearing a set of Royal Guard armor. Reaching for the first photo, he traced his thumb over the glass while smiling at it. After a couple of seconds he put it next to the other photos. He was about to pull back when he noticed the letters. “Huh, I forgot about those.” Spike said to himself before reaching further to retrieve them. “Let’s see what we got here.” He leaned back on his seat counting four letters in total. Reading who the first one was from caused him to groan. “How is it that even here I still get this junk?” Spike asked to no one seeing the letter was from a magazine he had subscribed by accident a few years ago. Spike had cancelled his subscription the following week, but they still sent him letters asking him if he wanted to renew his subscription for some reason. He set it on fire without a second doubt. Moving to the second letter made him forget his sour mood. “Has it been two weeks already?” He chuckled opening it and unfolding the letter. He read the contents mumbling as he did stopping only to laugh or hum at certain points. “‘With love, Twilight Sparkle.’ Good to hear the girls are doing well back home.” He set the letter on his desk. “I’ll write back tomorrow, I promise.” He then moved to the third letter, this one belonging to Celestia herself putting another smile on his face. Unfolding the letter he read the usual content his mother’s letters came with; basically asking him how he was, if he was comfortable, eating well, keeping his soldiers in line, etc. Usual stuff. “Why do they keep sending me these letters through the mail system when they could send them directly and be over with? I mean, Twilight I can sorta understand, but mom? They’ve been doing it since the war started.” Spike read the letter of his mother again before setting his sights on his third picture. The war...It’s been over a year since it started. Wow, a whole year already. Feels like it was just yesterday I was cooking dinner back in the castle. Spike thought setting his mother’s letter next to Twilight’s. The war had struck swiftly. Looking back it still seemed so unreal. It started with the changelings kidnapping and assassinating several griffons and ponies near the borders of the Badlands. Both sides sent a joint force to rescue the survivors, a task in which they succeeded. Sadly, the changelings and their Queen, Chrysalis, had perpetrated those crimes in order to create a distraction...and use said distraction to kidnap the Prince of the Griffon Kingdom for unknown purposes. Too bad for them the Prince was a fearsome fighter, so instead of kidnapping him the prince went down fighting alongside at least two hundred of his guards. Two days later the griffons declared war on the Changeling Hives. Almost immediately after, the Diamond Dog Empire and the Minotaur Monarchy, old enemies of the griffons, declared war to Gryphos siding with the changelings. As a result the griffons called upon their long lasting allies for support. And thus Equestria, the Crystal Empire, and Zebrica answered the call declaring war on the three enemy nations. The rest of the nations across Equis decided to remain neutral seeing the conflict didn’t affect them directly. The following month Equestria suffered numerous attacks from its enemies on all sides despite the efforts of local militias, the army, and the Royal Guards. The worst attack, however, was the sacking of Trottingham by diamond dog forces and the kidnapping of several thousands of ponies at the hands of the changelings. That ignited the flame the rest of Equestria needed take up arms against their enemies, managing to push back the relative small enemy forces inside their land. The following week there were kilometer long lines outside the enlistment centers all over Equestria and the Crystal Empire. He had planned to join the army but Celestia informed him that, since he was a member of the Royal Family (even if it was not yet of public knowledge), he technically couldn’t join the army unless he renounced his title. Luckily for him he could join the Royal Guard despite being a prince, much like Blueblood did. Having grown up under Celestia’s care, having the big brother figure and example in Shining Armor, being taught by Twilight, the will to fight for his home and protect those precious to his heart allowed him to rise far and above the rest of his peers. So much so that he reached the rank of Commander in record time, a position second only to Captain in the Royal Guard. At first Celestia had attempted to keep him close, but not even she could deny his talents and his unexpected tactical ingenuity. His friends had also attempted to join in the fight, but being the Bearers of the Elements meant they helped more back home than in the front lines, especially with Twilight being a princess. Rainbow Dash and Applejack didn’t like it, but they promised the princesses they would obey them despite wanting to fight. Before his departure he made a promise with Twilight to write to each other every two weeks to catch up and to see how they were doing. He hugged his loved ones goodbye ready to do his part in the war. And so he was sent to the Crescent Fortress to watch, and intercept if necessary, diamond dog forces attempting to invade from the south entrance. The Crescent Fortress, blocking off one of the few (and fastest) passages in the south to Equestria, was an ugly piece of marvel masterfully carved in the valley of two huge mountain chains that extended hundreds of kilometers at both sides. Meaning that not even the diamond dogs could dig their way through or below them, forcing them to either take the longer routes or try their chances taking down the fortress. They had already attempted it three times while under his command. And three times they had failed. Sadly, the fortress was not impugnable, although the walls were thick and solid like granite, and the temperature was tolerable all year long, it wasn’t really that big in overall size. Being capable of housing up to three thousand units, plus the surrounding terrain was awful making farming impossible. Not to mention the nearest village was almost a week long trip back, forcing them to rely on supply lines to feed and arm the stationed army. It also meant that reinforcements were unlikely to come to their aid on time. Luckily for him and his one thousand troops, the diamond dogs were busy fighting against the allied forces and trying to take far more important strategic places, or trying to gain entrance from the other roads. Which were even more heavily guarded, but still offered more tactical options than just a headstrong assault. That was fine with him. He wasn’t dying to face a well trained, well supplied army big enough to lay siege for days, maybe even weeks, on end without giving him or his troops time to rest anytime soon. His troops could retreat safely back to Equestria thanks to the protection and cover of the fortress, sure, but not without leaving a small force behind to repeal the aggressors to ensure the safety of those retreating. “That'll be over my dead body.” Spike snarled angrily. He had already lost over a hundred soldiers during the last defences, and was unwilling to sacrifice his troops to save his own scales if the worst came to happen. Shaking his head a few times he regained his composure. Feeling calm once again he placed his mother’s letter next to Twilight’s. “Alright, last one.” Spike did a double take reading from who was from. “What the...it’s from Rarity?” Taking the letter, and placing aside three blank photos barely small enough to fit the envelope, he began to read. It struck him as odd that Rarity would send him a separate letter after their...last meeting before he left. “Dearest Spike. This is my fourth attempt to write to you, not for lack of want, mind you, but because I couldn’t find the words to properly describe what I want to express. Darling, after you left I couldn’t stop thinking about you and your well being. So much so that I went to see Princess Celestia herself to put my mind at ease. She assured me that you were performing your duties admirably, and while you weren’t away from harm, you were on a safe position. A week later Twilight informed us about your first battle against the diamond dog forces attempting to overpower your fortress. Twilight, bless her heart, was quick to point out you were unharmed and managed to bravely send those despicable ruffians running with their tails between their legs. As Twilight mentioned, we celebrated your victory throwing a quaint small party in her castle. What you may not know is that nightmares plagued my mind for several days after. All of them showing me horrible scenarios of you not coming back to us. To me. Then I learned about your second and third battle. I was overjoyed to know you held your position despite the loss of those brave souls, but at the same time I dreaded my nightmares would become a reality. Day after day I prayed to every divine creator to protect you. Until finally something dawned at me. Spike, sweetheart, precious scales. I’m so sorry. I’m sorry for not realising sooner what you really mean to me. For ignoring your advances and pushing you aside like you were a mere object. Darling, it was never my intention to make you feel unwanted or used in any way. I was afraid to look past my own fear and doubts, too stupid to see you for what you truly are. Like a fool I distanced myself from you when your body changed to match your spirit and mind. I was so torn inside, Spike. Half of me wanted to be at your side. While the other wanted to hide away. And like a cowardly, pathetic fool I allowed my own doubts and fear to choose over my own heart. Even when you departed and you...and you confessed your love for me I couldn’t help but run away. Spikey-Wikey. I don’t know if your own precious heart holds a special place for me in it after the terrible things I’ve done. If you still harbor feelings for me then keep reading. Otherwise, stop now and burn this letter. I enchanted it with a spell Twilight taught me, so the moment you burn it a lit candle linked to it in my room will extinguish itself. That way I will know that I have lost my chance to earn your affections.” “Rarity…” Spike whispered her name while his lips started to form a smile. His heart pounding against his ribcage like never before. “Of course I still love you. I have never stopped, even for a second.” He said to the letter before continuing. “Spike. My sweet, kind, generous Spike. If you are reading this, then it means I can still dare hope to embrace you once you come back to me. To give you the love you deserve and I yearn to give. To feel your lips against mine as time itself vanishes around us. To hold your hand as we walk together against all odds. To lay together in bed; sweaty, out of breath, and satisfied after making love for hours on end while you whisper sweet nothings to my ear. Spikey-Wikey. Please believe these words that so much strife caused me to properly spell, for they come from the deepest center of my heart. I love you. I’ve fallen in love with you without me even noticing until now. My past infatuations can’t compare in the slightless to what I feel for you, my love. Describing how or why I love you would be insulting. For we both know of that seed you nurtured within me, and that has blossom to become the most beautiful fruit I’ve seen. Love of my life, I cannot wait until you wrap your arms around my body, protecting me from all harm while at the same time your embrace showers me with your warmth and love. Alas, you’re far away from my side, performing your royal duty in protecting our homeland from our vile, repugnant enemies. Spike, I don’t care what your orders may be or what you must do. I want you to come back to me no matter the circumstances. Do whatever you must do, my fanged sweetheart. I shall wait eagerly for your reply and pray for your safe return. Forever yours, Rarity Belle Unicorn. PS.- This letter had another enchantment placed on it. I hope they are to your enjoyment, darling, and that they help ‘inspire’ you to come back home safe and sound.” “YES!” Spike roared while small streams of fire emerged from his nostrils. “YEEEESSSS!” He roared even louder almost shattering his windows. He then jumped tumbling his seat back before landing in the middle of his office. “Sweet Celestia, yes!” Suddenly his doors burst open with three soldiers, two white pegasi stallions and a grey unicorn mare, entering holding their weapons out. “Sir, we heard you--AHHH!” The mare was cut off as Spike took a hold of her, hugging her close with one arm while shoving the letter to her face with the other. “She loves me! She really loves me!” Spike yelled before retreating the letter from the guard’s face. The poor mare could only stare in confusion as her commander gave her the biggest (and creepiest) face-splitting smile she had ever seen. “Uhhh...what?” “Rarity! Rarity said she loves me!” Spike said hugging the soldier mare. “I’m...glad for you...sir?” “I gotta tell mom! I gotta tell Cadance! I gotta tell Discord! Wait, forget Discord. I gotta tell Twilight!” Spike yelled before giving the mare a kiss ending it with a loud *MUAH*. “Go tell the garrison and the rest of the troops that they have my permission to bring out the hard cider. And the wine too while they’re at it: ON ME!” The two pegasi shared a short glance between themselves. “All of it, sir?” “ALL OF IT!” Spike yelled handing them the frozen, wide-eyed, muttering mare to her fellow soldiers. “You’re still here? Go!” “Sir, yes sir!” The two soldiers saluted before darting out of the office carrying their seemingly paralyzed comrade. Alone once more Spike hugged the letter humming a chirpy tone as he did. After a few moments he read through the letter once more with a massive grin on his face. Eventually he reached the end of the letter, his expression changing to one of confusion. “Another enchantment? For my enjoyment? Help inspire me? What are you talking about, Rarity?” Spike read the letter two more times before he looked at his desk and noticed the other two letters and the small blank photos he pulled out in the beginning. A blush crossed his face while his legs moved on their on walking toward his desk; his tail wagging ever so slightly behind him. He noticed the photos were face down once he was close enough. So, with a nervous gulp he pulled up his seat, sat on it, and then reached for the photos. Turning them over he gave out a raspy gasp and his eyes turned wide when he saw the top one. It was a photo of Rarity on her knees wearing a size too small black garter belt complete with socks and gloves. The socks covered her legs from little above the middle of her thighs down to her hooves. Her arms were covered from a few inches above her elbows, they were raised and rested on her trademark mane style that he liked so much. She was blushing while smiling at the camera with half lidded eyes, the only makeup he could notice were her signature eyelashes and light blue eyeshadow. Her impressive F-cup breasts were held tightly in place by her frilly bra that matches her panties, that honestly looked more like a thong than regular panties. Her toned, slick belly was accentuated by her firm, strong hips and nearly hourglass curves. A testament of the daily hard work she did to keep her alluring figure. “By the Moon.” Spike said before his shaky hands moved the photo away to see the second one. His tail instantly went rigid behind him upon seeing the next photo. This time Rarity was standing up facing away from the camera. She was wearing what he guesses were the same black bra and thong. Her mane was held up in a ponytail, while she was looking back at the camera with a tiny smirk and half lidded eyed. She was pulling down the top string supports of her bra; her pose and stance serving only to showcase her curves even more than in the first photo. What made him drool, however, was her rather generous, firm looking, soft, squishy, perfectly round derriere. The middle line of her thong was lost in between her marvelous lower marshmallows. He barely registered the fraction of her cutie marks that could be seen on the sides of her tush. Spike blinked for the first time since he sat down before he slowly moved the second photo to see the third and last one. It took his brain a moment to take in what he was seeing, and when it did, his heart nearly jumped up his throat. Rarity was laying on her side and on her fluffy pink robe over her own bed, whilst wearing absolutely nothing as a few rays of sun illuminated her form. She was glancing back at the camera with a playful, sultry look and a knowing smile. He could see her generous buttocks, her curvaceous body, her slender yet strong legs, her clean, well kept hooves, fur, and blocking tail. Spike’s right hand began to move on it’s own down the desk feeling his pants were strangely tight for some reason. “Sir!” “It wasn’t me!” Spike blurted out hiding the photos inside his chestplate. After a few seconds he cleared his throat. “What do you need, Stalwart?” “Sir, the troops are wondering if your orders were accurate?” The brown coated earth pony stallion wearing a royal guard armor asked with a Trottingham accent. “They are. Tell them to enjoy themselves but that rule seventy seven still is up, alright? And tell them that I’ll join the party in a few minutes.” “By your command.” The guard saluted. “Oh, and congratulations, sir.” “Thanks, Stalwart.” Spike waited until the earth pony, his most experienced lieutenant, exited his office and closed the door as he left. Spike pulled the photos out again and spent the following couple of minutes staring at them one by one over and over. When he felt he had enough, he put the photos inside his drawer. He then took a clean parchment, a bottle of ink, and a quill. “My dearest Rarity...No. Rarity of my heart...Too cheesy.” He muttered staring at the piece of paper. “ ‘My Fairest Lady.’ Now that’s more like it. ” With a good start, Spike began to write his reply. Author's Note Special thanks to anyone that read this! Special thanks to Trithtale for proofreading and minor editing!
Second Letter“Have I done something wrong, Commander?” A unicorn gray coated soldier mare with brown eyes and golden mane and tail asked while she sat in front of the desk of her commander. “You have done nothing wrong, Comet Star.” Spike sighed scratching the back of his neck. An uncomfortable ambience could be felt between the two. “Shucks. Look, I know you’ve been avoiding me for the past two weeks. And I have done my best to put you at a distance, but this has to stop.” Comet Star looked at Spike with a sheepish expression. Blushing cheeks and all. “Comet Star, I’m sorry I kissed you they way I did.” Spike said with a matching blush. “N-no need to apologize, sir!” Comet Star raised her hands shaking them from side to side in front of her. “You w-were happy, that’s all! I understand! I did the same when my coltfriend confessed-” “Sweet Celestia, you have a coltfriend!?” Spike rubbed his templates. “Please tell me you didn’t tell him.” “Of course I didn’t, sir! As I said, I did the same when he confessed to me.” Comet Star covered her eyes in embarrassment. “I--I grabbed his sister and kissed her right in front of him before I jumped to his arms!” Spike stared at her for several seconds, his mouth agape. “...You kissed another mare after he confessed, in front of him, with said mare being his sister no less?” Comet Star nodded. “Hot.” “SIR!” Comet Star yelled covering her entire face. “Sorry! Sorry!” Spike cleared his throat. “Then why have you been avoiding me given your, ehem, experience?” “‘Cause I knew how you felt, sir.” Comet Star answered after a moment of recollection. “I couldn’t look at my coltfriend for an entire month after that.” “How...considerate of you, Comet Star.” Spike leaned back on his chair. “Let’s put that behind us, don’t you agree?” Comet Star nodded. “Good, now return to your duties. You can have the day off tomorrow, alright?” “Sir, yes sir. Thank you, sir.” Comet Star stood up and walked towards the exit. Before she opened the door she turned back to glance at Spike. “And sir? Congratulations. Lady Rarity is lucky to have you.” She then left leaving Spike alone in his office. “No. I’m the lucky one.” Spike whispered to himself. After a few minutes of simply enjoying the silence and calm his office provided, Spike reached for his left drawer and opened it. He reached into it, a moment later he pulled out the letter Rarity sent him two weeks ago. After he finished writing his own reply, he sent it via his fire to Celestia asking her to please give it to Rarity on his behalf. He also asked Rarity in the letter to use the normal mail system to avoid disturbing Celestia any further. He was about to open the letter to look through the ‘inspiration’ photos Rarity had sent him, when a loud knock to his door made his shove the letter back into his drawer. “Who is it?” He asked in a calm, cool voice despite closing his drawer with a shaky hand. “Stalwart, sir. May I come in?” “You may.” Spike watched the earth pony enter and salute him. “At ease.” “Sir, one of our scouts has returned from his mission. But there’s something strange about him.” “Which is?” “Sir, the scout is a crystal pony and gave us a valid code. Not only that, but he claims he can only talk to you in person. He’s waiting outside the front doors for you.” “What is the name of that scout?” “Crystal Hoof, sir.” Stalwart was confused when Spike smirked as he got up. “Sir, with all due respect I do believe this might be a trap.” “Nonsense, Crystal Hoof is a good friend of mine.” Spike said while Stalwart opened the door for him. The two of them made their way to the courtyard and passed through the gate of the fortress leading to the south and onto diamond dog territory. They soon saw a blue coated crystal pony standing a good thirty or so meters away from the fortress. The pony had a two shade gray mane and tail, he also was wearing light leather armor with a hooded cape while a cutlass hanged on his left side. “Crystal Hoof!” Spike called opening his arms. “Spike!” The crystal pony ran to meet the dragon with a tight hug. “I’m so glad you’re alright!” “I’ll say! I was worried you were caught or worse.” Spike broke the hug. “Princess Cadance sent me on a long mission to the Dog Empire. She ordered me to keep an eye on any suspicious movements they were making.” Crystal Hoof explained as the trio made their way back inside the fortress. “Let me guess, they’re up to no good?” “It’s worse than that. That’s why I came here instead of reporting back to Princess Cadance.” “I see.” Spike closed his eyes for a moment. “Everypony, come here!” “SIR, YES SIR!” Was the instantaneous reply. Not one minute later every soldier and guard in the fortress was paying attention and watching from anywhere they could find to their commander. “Everypony, this is Crystal Hoof. One of my best friends, a trusted scout and friend of Princess Cadance, and one of our best spies.” Spike placed an arm around Crystal Hoof’s shoulders. “And he’s a changeling.” On queue Crystal Hoof dropped his disguise revealing a changeling waving shyly. “Everypony, this is Thorax!” “Hurrah!” “Alright, alright, settle down. Thorax, what did you discover?” Spike asked loud enough for his troops to hear. Inside, he was smiling seeing his soldiers cheering for the friendly changeling. Thorax stopped waving, his look and expression turning more serious. “The diamond dogs are building a secret army that they plan to send to the southern frontier. I don’t know how strong or when they’re going to send it, but I know they’re coming.” The soldiers and guards began to whisper and murmur between themselves. “Then we must send a message to the other entrances so that they can be prepared and alert. Asking for reinforcements would be a good idea, commander.” Stalwart said rubbing his chin. “See that the other entrances receive this information, Stalwart. I’ll take care of asking for reinforcements.” Spike then turned to everypony. “Well? Didn’t you listen? Go back to your posts and reinforce everything. Move, move, move!” Spike ordered. His troops saluted before retiring to fulfill their orders. “What about you, Thorax?” “I’d like to stay here and help you out, Spike. Maybe I can find out more about whatever they’re planning.” “What about Cadence and your orders?” “I’m sure Princess Cadance will understand if I explain it. Spike, I have a bad feeling about what those dogs could be doing.” “That makes two of us then.” Spike chuckled. “And of course you can stay, Thorax. Why don’t you go search for a bunk and get settled in? After that you can search for Stalwart, my second in command, and ask him to give you new armor before you write that report to Cadance?” “I’ll do just that, Spike.” The two friends shared another short hug. “By the way, I can smell a lot of love around you, what’s that all about?” Spike smirked. “My fair Rarity has finally given into my irresistible masculinity and devilish handsomeness.” He said beaming with pride. “Oh...oh….Oh!...I owe Shining Armor fifty bits now.” Thorax murmured the last part. “What was that?” “N-nothing! I was just, ermmm, saying how happy I am for you, yeah! Ha ha ha, Aha!” “Rrrright…” Spike forced himself to not roll his eyes. “Well, I have a report and a request to write. See you around, Thorax.” “Don’t work too hard, Spike.” Thorax said as they parted ways. Spike made his way back his office, when he turned around the corner leading to it he found the unicorn mare in charge of the mail was walking down the other side of the hallway. “Commander Spike, just the dragon I’ve been looking for.” The mare said once they met outside his office. “I have something for you today!” The mare then handed him a couple of envelopes. “Have a nice day, commander Spike.” “Likewise. And thank you.” Spike then entered his office. He closed the door (mindful to lock it this time), walked to his chair, and sat on it while placing the letters he had received. He placed three letters in from of him. He took the first one on the left and opened it. With an annoyed groan he set it on fire. “Seriously, once I get back I’m going to wherever their headquarters are and demand them to stop sending me those blasted subscriptions.” He then grabbed the next one and opened it. He smiled seeing it was from Twilight explaining how she and the rest of the girls were, the party they held for Rarity confessing her feelings, and how happy she was for him for ‘nailing’ the mare of his dreams. Spike licked his lips before swallowing what felt like a brick. His heart beated with intensity when he grabbed the third envelop. He opened it with shaking hands and pulled out a letter along with four blank photos. Keep it cool, Spike. Keep it cool. You got this. You’re the dragon, you’re the man! He cheered in his head while he placed the blank photos on the desk, opened the letter, and began to read it. “Dearest Spike, My love, I cannot express in words the joy I felt once Princess Celestia personally gave me your letter. Truth be told, I thought your answer would come in the form of a dying flame, but while I held hope that I still held a place in your heart I never once believed your answer would come so soon. Precious scales, once again I ask for your forgiveness for never giving you a chance to hold my heart between your loving, tender, protective claws. For it is now that I’m certain it is where it truly belongs. Just like you gave me your own heart long ago. Spikey Wikey. My Spikey Wikey, the nights are colder here in Ponyville without your care, your love, and your warmth next to me. Around me. Darling, I must confess that after I received your charming and heartfelt letter I felt elated, yet incomplete. That afternoon I went out for a nice relaxing stroll through town. That’s when I met my new best friend. He reminds me so much of you that I couldn’t help to fall completely in love the moment I laid eyes upon him. Using my charms, I brought him home immediately and lured him into my bedroom. Oh, the things we did were positively scandalous! But in every second I couldn’t help but wonder; imagine; envision what you would do to me, love of my life. After we were done we shared a bath until he was sparkling clean, then I placed Little Spikey, my second true love, inside my panty drawer to let him rest at his leisure. That is, until the next night when I thought of your claws tracing my fur and skin. Your scaly lips kissing my own, wondering how marvelous will they feel once we share our first kiss? Will you take and claim me like a gentledrake, or maybe you’re going to ravage me with the sole purpose of breeding me? Will you cuddle and snuggle with me through the night? Will you whisper to me how much you love me as I do the same? Oh my. How embarrassing. I fear I need to use Little Spikey again, darling. I do hope this war ends soon, for I fear Little Spikey might not survive for much longer. Spikey, I’m certain they will be to your liking. I pray for your safety and your safe return, precious scales. Know this, beloved, that even though we are forced to stand apart, we are always together in our hearts. Forever yours and only yours, Rarity Belle Unicorn.” Spike gulped with ragged breathing. “Rarity, you’re an evil, naughty mare.” He said before leaving the letter to rest on the desk. His attention then shifted to the photos. He stared at them for a couple of seconds before grabbing them with the blank back staring at him. He moved his seat forward until he could rest his weight on his elbows. Now in a more comfortable position he flipped them. Spike let out a guttural sounding growl as his eyes laid upon the first picture, which also revealed who ‘Little Spikey’ was. It was photo of Rarity facing away from the camera with a slight inclination to the left. She was looking back at the camera with a sexy little smile, an adorable blush, and half closed eyes. She was completely naked giving him a free view of her left boob. He saw her perky and erect purple nipple while her left hand cupped her breast for a better angle. Near her hand held by her magic was a seven or so inch long purple dragon penis shaped dildo with green lines at its sides. Finally his eyes traced her lovely, squishy, bountiful derriere and her shapely long thighs and legs. A puff of smoke left his nostrils while he moved to see the second photo. He really didn’t want to stop looking at the first one, but he knew it was going to get better if her previous set was anything to go by. He felt his heart skip a beat or two at what he saw in the second photo. This time Rarity was laying on her side facing towards the camera. She was using her right hand to rest her head on while she looked at the camera with a sultry look and deliciously innocent smile. As she laid on her bed, Spike saw her hourglass figure and her curves that screamed to the four winds she was a mare through and through. He traced a claw over her toned belly that didn’t show any trace of extra fat. She indeed had meat on her bones, that was for sure, but only enough to accentuate her figure even more. Her strong, wide hips that he swore were made to bare foals, only served to showcase her firm rump while she laid her left hand over her side. Her thumb clinging to the elastic band of the pink panties she was wearing. Which was the only thing she was wearing. For her F-cup sized breasts rested peacefully like two clouds of heavenly fleshy goodness with one resting over the other, but never sagging. No, her breasts looked firm yet soft to the touch, like two marshmallow mounds ready to be eaten and enjoyed. That wasn’t even adding her alluring and startling purple areolas and nipples that begged to be sucked, pinched, licked, and suckled. If I can bury my face in between her breasts, I can die with no regrets. Spike thought before moving onto the third photo. He actually felt his brain experience a short circuit for a fraction of a second. This time Rarity wasn’t really looking to the camera, but still she had that adorable blush of hers. Her mane and tail were hanging down due to being wet. No doubt she had finished taking a bath. She was wearing a tight fitting magenta towel that fit her like a glove while also doing a terrific job at showing off her curves and her most prominent attributes. He could also see Little Spikey held firmly in her right hand. With a snort of green fire, Spike moved to the fourth and last photo. In this one, Rarity was looking straight to the camera with a sultry look; her mane dry and curled into her prefered style. She was lightly touching her chin with her left index finger and thumb, while at the same time she nibbled on her lower lip. Spike couldn’t see below her belly button, but he was graced with the sight of her perfectly shaped breasts hanging freely. His eyes focused on her hard, erect purple nipples for a few seconds before they moved to her flat stomach. He appreciated her undoubtedly feminine, awestrucking figure once more for several moments before he traveled back to her face. For some reason he couldn’t take his eyes away from hers, it felt like she was watching him through the photo. The Rarity in the photo fluttered her eyelashes and blew a kiss at him. “Nhhnngg--fffuuuuck!” Spike groaned as spurt after spurt of his steaming hot dragon semen landed on the floor of his office. He hit his desk with his forehead while his right hand pumped his member for the last, agonizing spurts and his left held onto the last photo of his beloved Rarity. After taking a moment to calm down and regain some of his composure, Spike looked at the photo of Rarity once more. He stared at it for almost half a minute before putting it down. “I could’ve sworn I saw it wink and blow a kiss at me. Or maybe I was just seeing things.” Spike leaned back on his sit feeling relaxed and relieved for the first time in two weeks. “Sir, are you alright! I thought I heard you curse!” Comet Star said from the other side of the door. “It’s nothing! I’m fine, Comet Star, I, uhhh, took off one of my scales by accident!” Spike lied, startled by the sudden interruption. “Do you require medical assistance, sir?” She asked in a more calmed tone. “That won’t be necessary, Comet Star. You can go back to your duties, no need to worry about me.” “Very well, sir. Sorry for disturbing you, sir” Spike listened how Comet Star walked away until he couldn’t hear her anymore. Letting out a relieved sigh, Spike slumped on his chair. “Dodged an arrow.” He then looked at the impressive mess he recklessly made. “Fuck.” Author's Note Special thanks to anyone that read this! Special thanks to Trithtale for proofreading and minor editing!
Third LetterSpike and Stalwart stared into the obscure horizon from the atop the walls of the fortress. Neither of them had said a single word for almost half an hour while in their silent watch. Behind them, the forces in stationed in the fortress were in a hurry handing armor, polishing and sharpening weapons, preparing oil, stacking arrows in quivers and stationary cases along the wall and the towers, reinforcing the gate, storing and preparing thunder, mist, and snow clouds, and readying themselves for battle. It had been a month since Thorax’s arrival. And true to his warning, soon came reports of scouts confirming an army was forming somewhere in diamond dog territory. The problem was that, despite countless efforts from scouts and spies alike, the size of the army and their objective was unknown. They did know, however, that the second oldest son of the diamond dog Emperor was leading said army. Previously that day, they had received a report from an outpost confirming the diamond dog army was on the move, but the destination was unclear. Thanks to Thorax, Spike had received one thousand soldiers as reinforcements, and the rest of the road entrances were on the ready plus receiving reinforcements of their own. “Sir?” A voice broke the relative silence between them. “What is it, Comet Star?” Stalwart asked. “The defences are almost ready, sir. Permission to start taking our posts, sir.” Stalwart looked at Spike for a moment before replying. “Permission granted.” Comet Star saluted before jumping down the edge of the wall, using her magic to slow her fall. Alone once again, Spike gave out a deep sigh. “This doesn’t look good for us, Stalwart.” Spike said uncrossing his arms. “Aye. If they decide to attack us we won’t be able to hold for much. Unless they’re trying to attack us with four or five thousand troops like last times.” The earth pony let out a mirthless chuckle. “Which sounds unlikely, since a freaking prince is leading that army. My bet is that he’s commanding at least fifteen thousand troops.” “Celestia forbids they’re bringing siege equipment.” Spike hummed. “I doubt they’re bringing any if they want to take any of the outposts while they’re unprepared.” Spike sighed, his glare piercing the obscurity of the horizon. “Are you worried about Thorax, sir?” “He should’ve been back two days ago, Stalwart. Of course I’m worried.” Spike grunted. “I shouldn’t have sent him to observe their movements.” “He volunteered, sir. There was nothing you could do.” Stalwart placed a hand over Spike’s shoulder. “Have hope, sir. Thorax is a good soldier and a smart scout.” “I know, I know.” Spike then rubbed his temples. “Stalwart, I’ll be in my office. If anything happens, inform me immediately.” “Sir,” Stalwart saluted while Spike turned around and jumped off of the edge of the wall. Spike made his way back to his office while his soldiers continued their work. He could feel the tension in the air, an almost choking feeling of upcoming dread that tug his heart and everyone else's. He was about to turn the corner of the hallway that lead to his office, when he saw one of the mail ponies handing letters and scrolls to a group of pegasi sharpening their lances. The mail pony noticed him and walked up to him after handing the letters to the pegasi. “Goodnight, sir. I have mail for you.” The unicorn stallion clad in leather armor said while he searched for his package. “I was expecting the caravan until tomorrow morning.” Spike said, patiently waiting for his mail. “The chief decided to force march us, sir. Said you might need the supplies and some good news for once.” “Mhmmm, send him my regards and appreciation, will you? Celestia knows the troops are grateful for it.” “Will do, sir.” The mail stallion said before pulling out six letters folded together. “Here you go, sir.” Spike took the letters and left, leaving the mail pony free to continue doing his work. Spike made his way back to his office undisturbed, entered it, locked the door behind him, and finally slumped on his seat once he reached it. Taking a few minutes to enjoy the relative silence and peace his office offered, Spike closed his eyes and let his mind be free of worries and thoughts for the time being. Feeling he had relaxed enough, Spike put the letters on his desk in a pile and grabbed the top one. He discovered it was a letter from Big Macintosh, offering to send him a crate of cider. Spike smiled placing the letter to his left. He grabbed the next letter and groaned. “Sweet pony feathers,” he sighed before setting the letter on fire. Grabbing the third letter he noticed this one was from Twilight. Reading through it, he noticed it lacked the usual questions and familiar greeting Twilight’s letter always began with. She was direct and to the point, begging him to stay alert and be safe. “Twi…” Spike whispered while he caressed the letter softly. He placed it on top of Big Mac’s letter before moving to the fourth one. He recognized the seal and signature immediately. Opening the letter, he read through it finding it almost identical in nature as Twilight’s. Though it was of no surprise to him. For all her impeccable poker face and calm, controlled poise, Celestia cared deeply for everyone around her, even more so towards her friends and family. “I’ll be fine, mom, I promise.” Spike said before kissing the letter and placing it on the other pile. He knew he couldn’t blame them for being worried. He himself was worried sick for the safety of his troops, for Thorax, for Blueblood, and for everyone fighting in the war, really. Especially after a devastating defeat on the east the zebra armies suffered at the hands of the minotaurs. Prince Blueblood and his army arrived to the battlefield on time to save the zebra generals and what was left of their army from certain death, but not without suffering heavy casualties himself. Fighting against a minotaur army head on was scary enough. But a minotaur army supported by diamond dogs and pumped with changeling venom? That was the stuff of nightmares. Luckily for the allied forces, Shining Armor’s efforts on the north had managed to keep the main forces of Chrysalis at bay and cut off from any immediate aid. Meanwhile, the common frontier shared by the Minotaur Monarchy, the Dog Empire, Equestria, and Gryphos had turned into a tug of war. The bulk forces of the Equestrian and Gryphonian armies, led by Princess Luna and King Blood Talons respectively, were fighting meter by bloody meter against the joint armies of the minotaurs and diamond dogs. That only left the south, it facing skirmishes here and there at best and average assaults at worst. It felt more like a battle of intelligence and espionage most of the time, truth be told. But Spike knew that it was a false tranquillity. The diamond dogs wanted to sneak their way into Equestria, that was no secret. But they couldn’t pull back enough of their forces to form a serious army to attack the south entrances, not without losing the battle against Equestria and Gryphos in the northeast frontier. Plus, the south territories of the diamond dogs had no real strategic value to consider investment on a serious task force without giving them terrain advantage. It was a double edge sword for both sides. “But if they manage to takeover any of our outposts, then they’ll have free passage to Equestria for who knows how long before we can kick them out again.” Spike said to himself before grabbing the fifth letter. He took deep, slow breaths to push those nasty thoughts away. Several moments later, the dragon opened the letter. “They sent me two this time!?” Spike let out a long frustrated groan. He was about to burn the letter to ashes, but then he decided, with a defeated sigh, to open the damn thing and reply them to please stop sending him those bothersome letters once and for all. Reading through the letter though, Spike’s annoyance shifted to curiosity and then interest once he reached the end of it. It surprised him that it wasn’t so much a petition to subscribe to the magazine. Instead, he found it was a formal request to use his image to promote said magazine and the merchandise they sold. “Mmmm...the face for our products...special discounts and free products based on sales...a three point five percent of the monthly profit sums as payment...no tying regulations or contracts and I can quit whenever I want if I choose to...same goes if my image loses steam.” Spike said re-reading the letter trying to find any loopholes or ‘small letter clause’ that could be used against him. “A contract of mutual benefit with no legal bindings forcing either to do something they don’t want to? Sounds good to me.” Spike shrugged and signed the letter where it marked it needed to. Placing the signed letter on the left pile, he then moved to grab the last letter. Spike felt his heart beat faster when he noticed it was from Rarity. Two weeks ago, Rarity didn’t sent him a letter for some reason. He knew it was most likely because she was busy with her own work or something similar. Licking his lips, Spike opened the letter and pulled out a folded piece of paper and six blank photos. The nervous and excited dragon put the photos facing down on his desk while he took a couple of deep breaths to calm himself. After a few moments, Spike opened the letter and began to read. “Dearest Spike, Hello, darling. I do so ever apologize for not sending you a letter last time, my love. Coloratura and Sapphire Shores recruited my help to fashion an entire new line of costumes for a charity and fund raising concert they gave a week ago. Needless to say, fulfilling their costumes demanded my entire attention! But it was so worth it, darling, for the concert was a complete success. And I’m proud to say I helped those two dears with such a noble cause! With that said, I fear I cannot express in words how worried I am for you, darling. Of course, all our friends are worried sick for your safety after Celestia, bless her heart, told us about the possible attack the diamond dogs might be planning. Precious scales. My love. My Spike-Wikey. Do what you must and what you think is the right thing to do, darling. But never forget I’m waiting for you with open arms. Please, I beg of you, come back to me safe and sound. I know it’s a selfish request, my love, but I ask...no, I demand you to do whatever it takes to come back to me at the end of the day. Darling, I must also ask that you forgive the way I have expressed myself in my previous letters. It’s not my intention to make you feel uncomfortable by worded my desire for you, precious scales. You know that I am a lady first and above all else. And a lady must be tempted. Seduced. Romanced. Loved. Before she gives herself entirely to the stallion --or dragon-- of her dreams. I felt awful thinking I was giving you the impression that I was some sort of common whorse. A two-bit lustful mare down the street eager to be plundered by whomever catches her eye. That is, until I realized you have already won the heart of this lady, Spikey-Wikey. That’s why I can say with confidence those words I said during my first letter. The same words you so warmly told me in each of your letters. Knowing they are true and come from the deepest part of my heart and soul. I love you. I love you! I LOVE YOU! I love you, Spike. I want you to hug me at night. I want to be able to kiss you whenever I please. I want to hold hands when we’re out on a date. I want you to touch me, and hug me, and embrace me, and kiss me everyday. I want your sleeping face and your eyes to be the first thing I see each morning. I want us to make love until our bodies go sore. I want to be with you and spend my life at your side, my sweet prince. To give you myself entirely as you do the same for me. That’s why I can say this without doubt or shame: I am yours, Spike. My heart, body, and soul now belong to you, my love. Precious scales, I await your return with all I can muster. I sincerely hope they are to your pleasing and enjoyment. Remember that I am always next to you in heart and spirit. Only yours, Rarity Belle Unicorn.” “I love you too, Rarity. With all of my heart, my fairest lady,” Spike said with a wide, pleasant smile on his face before he closed the letter and kissed her cutie mark-shaped seal. Putting it away on the left pile, he then moved to grab the photos. Spike took a deep breath sensing his heartbeat rising again for a moment. Turning the photos over, his jaw almost dislodged itself when he saw the first picture. It was of Rarity standing next to her ample bed using one hand to support herself against one of the wood pillar adorning the corners. The look on her face was sultry and her eyes were half-lidded. She was wearing a see-through deep cherry colored nightgown. With the pose she was standing on, the nightgown has half open, kind of like a cape would look like. She was also wearing a matching set of thong and a bra. The bra had a small screen of see-through hanging from the bottom to cover her slim stomach. He also noticed her hair was arranged in a more extravagant way with added curls and looking lush and brilliant. He could also tell she was wearing makeup, and although he couldn't see her mouth because it was covered by her hand holding a part of her nightgown, it only served to make her look all the more alluring while adding a sense of sensuality and mystery that made his blood pump faster through his veins. With a loud gulp, he moved to the next photo. His eyes went wide and his irises turned into paper thin slits. Rarity was resting on her back, starked naked, with her legs flexed in the air in a resting manner. She was using one arm to rest her head over, while her other hand cupped her left breast and pinched her erect purple nipple. She was looking at the camera with an expression similar to the first photo, only now Spike could see a matching smile and a mild blush. Her pose made her look like a goddess, and the light of the sun coming from a window behind her only served to add to her sexyness. In her angle, whoever, Spike was able to see her puckered asshole and some of her vulva. Looking closely, he could see a sheen covering her lower lips. It was only then when he noticed Little Spikey almost buried by her tail. “Oh sweet fucking fuck…” Spike murmured feeling one of his eyes twitch while he moved on to the third photo. His tail went rigid when he saw Rarity still laying on her bed, but in a different position. Like in the previous image, she was naked; except this time she was wearing a necklace with an all too familiar Fire Ruby resting in the valley of her breasts. She was lying slightly on her right side with her left left resting over her right one in a way that gave free view to her pussy lips and moist clit. In this pose, her magnificent and shapely waist, thighs, and hips were all the more accentuated and toned than ever before. Half of her face was blocked by a pillow, but the visible half showcased a half-lidded eye and her biting her lower lip ever so softly. Like it was taunting and mocking him for not being there with her in that moment. Spike’s gaze shifted to her tempting and captivating F-cup breasts. They laid there lazily but never sagging. Judging by the lightning in the room and her aroused nipples, Spike deduced with whatever functional part of his brain still left, that she must’ve taken this picture mere moments after the previous one. Moving onto the fourth photo, Spike’s mind became a white haze for a split second. There was no way around to describe what he was seeing. It was Rarity laying on her back, naked, smiling up to the camera while her horn was covered by her luminous magic. Her legs were spread open, her right arm helped to keep her right leg in position while her left arm rested behind her head. In this position and point of view, Spike could see with detail the slightly spread lips of his love around the middle section of Little Spikey. All the while Rarity smiled in a coquettish manner whilst biting a small trend of her mane in between her teeth. Spike spent long, uncounted moments staring into the photo while his brain fought to function again. Ultimately achieving success, Spike regained enough self awareness to move towards the fifth photo. “...” A high pitched whine escaped from his throat and a burst of fire escaped from his nostrils while he gawked at the marvel in front of him. This time Rarity was laying on her side while she looked back into the camera. Spike didn’t know, or cared, if she was naked, because all he could focus on was on her blushing cheeks, her provocative, tempting smile, her half-lidded eyes that were practically looking right back at him, her plump, firm rear, and the fingers spreading her pussy wide. He could see the rose colored insides of Rarity’s marehood. He could even see her slickness and wetness, he saw a couple of strands of her juice creating bridges between her tight looking inner walls. He couldn’t see her puckered rear hole, since it was blocked by her hand, while her tail laid to the side undisturbed. This time, however, Spike was able to catch the Rarity in picture actually wink, lick her lips, spread her pussy further, and blow him a kiss once every couple of seconds. “Holy Tartarus…” Spike murmured, unable to tear his gaze away from the photo while his heart rate now threatened to make his heart explode at any given moment. Not really wanting to move forward, but knowing one photo still remained, he moved the fifth photo away. This one caught him off-guard. In it, Rarity was wearing long purple and green stockings and garterbelt, with a matching thong and bra while she wore her usual makeup and purple lipstick. She was standing with her legs a bit spread apart. Upon closer inspection, he saw that her thong wasn’t actually a thong, but some sort of strap on designed to keep Little Spikey buried deep inside her snatch. He knew this much, because he could see the base of said aptly named dildo bulging on the straps of the ‘thong’ Rarity was wearing. She was looking straight to the camera with an intense blush and a coy, knowing smile. Meanwhile, her hands were busy fondling and playing with her twin set of marshmallowy soft breasts. What surprised him the most was the little message written in the bottom of the photo’s frame. ‘For Spikey-Wikey, my love. Always your bitch. Rarity~’ “FUUUCCCKKK!” Spike cursed/roared as he reached his climax. Thick ropes of steaming dragon baby batter came out bursting from the tip of his thick meat spear. Spike leaned back on his chair pumping his dick for all it was worth. It took him almost a minute to finish and regain his breath and consciousness to re-open his eyes. The first thing he saw was the stains of creamy cum laying over his desk. The puddle in the floor, again. His stained hand, thighs and armor. And the shocked unicorn standing at the other side of the desk. “...Fuck.” Spike whispered seeing none other than Comet Star looking at him with wide eyes. Comet Star was talking, or at least trying to, from how fast that she was babbling. Spike, without any kind of excuse of thought to explain what was happening, simply retracted his now flaccid member back inside his protective scales. Using his fire, the dragon cleansed his own seed from himself, the floor and the table. He then fastened his armor, placed the photo still on his free hand on the left pile, leaned forward to rest his elbow on the desk and cleared his throat. “Is there something you need to tell me, Comet Star?” Spike asked in the most casual manner he could muster. Comet Star, still partially in shock, needed a moment to arrange her thoughts. “M-Major Stalwart s-says T-Thorax has returned, dick. I mean, SIR!” The mare saluted trying to hide her sun hot face. “I’ll be there in a moment.” Spike said getting up and walking past the trembling unicorn. “Oh, and, Staff Sergeant Comet Star?” The wide eyed mare turned to face her commander. “I would appreciate if you forget what you saw and we never bring the subject up again.” Spike opened the door. “In fact, I would be very, very, very grateful, Major Comet Star.” “...” Comet Star blinked for the first time since she entered teleported inside the office. “...Forget a-about what, sir?” She replied in a low voice. “Awesome.” Spike said before stepping out of his office. Closing the door behind him, he silently made his way back to Stalwart. Upon reaching the yard, Spike noticed his troops were starting to take defensive positions. He sighed, and made his way to the top of the wall where Stalwart and a ragged looking Thorax. Neither of them spoke as Spike saw himself a plethora of torches showing up in the horizon. “How many, Thorax?” Spike finally asked in a calm, collected manner. “Almost sixty thousand.” Thorax replied catching his breath. “They didn’t bring any siege equipment other than ladders and a few hand-held rams to speed up their movement.” Thorax explained pulling out a small scroll from his left pouch. Meanwhile, Spike asked Stalwart to hand him his monocular. “Most of the army is made up from mercenaries from other countries. Only the guard of Prince Bulldozer and around two thousand regular soldiers belong to the Dog Empire.” “The odds aren’t in our favor.” Stalwart said taking the scroll from Thorax. “I’m afraid not,” Thorax added looking at Spike. “What are we going to do, Spike?” “...” Spike didn’t reply. Instead he hummed, turned back and handed the monocular back to Stalwart. “Stalwart, what musical instruments have you confiscated?” The earth pony and the changeling shared a short glance. “The usual, sir. Lutes, lyres, a cello-” “What?” Thorax said. “-a few kazoos, a magic powered keyboard, ukuleles, a drum set-” “How!?” Thorax cried. “-violins, a set of plates, a wong, magic powered guitars, and a saxophone, sir.” Spike looked around to see his troops for a few lingering moments before looking at Stalwart and Thorax with a serious expression. “Do you trust me?” “With my life, sir!” “Of course I do, Spike!” Spike then smirked. -------------------------****************************** “What are they planning?” Prince Bulldozer asked looking through his monocular at the Crescent Fortress. “Captain, correct me if I’m wrong, but do you see any guards on the wall because I don’t?” “No, your grace. I don’t see anyone on the walls or the skies.” The dog captain replied looking through his own monocular. “Perhaps they’re retreating, your grace.” “I doubt it. The one defending that fortress is Spike the Dragon. He must be aware that if he retreats, then it’s only a matter of time before we catch up to him and his troops. There must be something else going on.” “I don’t know, you grace.” The captain said while behind them the troops were already setting up the torches and preparing for the upcoming assault. They were a little over a kilometer away from the walls of the fortress. But while it meant their charge would take longer, it also provided a safe distance from their arrows and enough time to warn them of any sneak attacks from the blasted pegasi. Suddenly, all movement around the prince ceased as a sound reached their ears. “Is...is that music?” Bulldozer asked, baffled. A few seconds later the noise became louder followed by faint cheers. “It is music. What in the name of Tartarus is going on?” The army then continued with their work and preparations for almost an hour. All the while they could hear more music, cheering and even laughter coming from the fortress but no visible movement. It confused and irked the prince at the same time. “My Prince, the gates of the fortress are opening!” The captain yelled while Bulldozer looked through his monocular once more. The prince saw a lonely figure walk outside the fortress. He noticed it was an archer given that it set something ablaze before letting it loose sky high. Following the flaming missile until it landed a hundred or so meters in front of them. Bulldozer watched the archer return inside the fortress, yet the gates remained wide open. Ordering to retrieve the arrow, a couple of soldiers went out for it returning a minute or so later with a message attached to the arrow. Prince Bulldozer opened the message and instantly frowned reading what it said. ‘Come on in, we’re having a party. It’s a blast. ~Spike Solaris the Dragon, Prince of Equestria.’ “What...” Bulldozer mumbled before looking through his monocular at the fortress. This time he saw someone, no, somedragon on what appeared to be the edge of the wall above the entrance. He could see said dragon moving, twirling, and jumping from stone to stone while holding onto something. “Is he playing a saxophone?” The captain asked to himself while he watched the dragon play said instrument with, judging the way he moved, vigorous enthusiasm. “Your grace, shall we begin the attack?” No response. “Your grace?” The captain called a few seconds later. He looked up to Prince Bulldozer and found him clenching his jaw and sweating slightly. End. Author's Note Special thanks to anyone that read this! Special thanks to Ebony Stallion for proofreading and minor editing!
EpilogueEpilogue To say Rarity was giddy would be an understatement. The war had ended three days ago by the capture, and public execution, of Queen Chrysalis in a surprising assault delivered by Shining Armor and King Blood Talons, aided by changeling rebels. After Chrysalis was beheaded by Blood Talons himself, the Changeling Hives surrendered. Shortly after the Diamond Dog Empire surrendered when their emperor and two of his three sons were captured after a crushing defeat that also forced the minotaurs to pull back and eventually surrender as well. With the war now over, leaving a few pockets of enemy resistance here and there, the Princesses and other leaders and politicians would determine the next step to be taken. But to her it only meant that her Spikey-Wikey was going to come back. She had been worried sick for days, weeks. Until Celestia personally gathered the Element Bearers to tell them how Spike had tricked Prince Bulldozer and his army of sixty thousand soldiers. Despite the great risk it meant, Spike had ordered his troops to celebrate and party like never before. He even sent an invitation to Prince Bulldozer himself telling him to come inside and join the party, while also revealing his royal status to the prince. It was a risky gamble from Spike’s part, but it paid off. Prince Bulldozer, aware of the ferocity of the dragon during his previous defences, eventually ordered a retreat before sunrise, certain it was trap orchestrated by Spike. Him revealing his status only cemented Bulldozer’s fears. A month later the war came to its swift, decisive end. Today, Rarity was getting ready to leave for Canterlot to attend to the victory speech. She was relieved but saddened, Spike would not be back until a couple of weeks later. Especially since he and Celestia had to discuss the use of his ‘tactic’. She was almost ready, wearing a stylish full body blue dress, when she heard a knock on her door. “A moment please~” She called adjusting her dress before opening her door. “Yes? How may I...help…” Rarity was cut off when she was greeted by Spike himself wearing his armor and looking at her with a soft smile. “S-Spike?” It was all Rarity could say before the dragon in front of her gave a wide fang filled smiled and wrapped his arms around her, making her yelp in surprise. He lifted her up with little effort and used his tail to close the door behind them. End. Author's Note Special thanks to anyone that read this! Special thanks to Ebony Stallion for proofreading and minor editing!
