Honesty and Dragons

by MiraculousDragonMaster

Rating: everyone
Tags: Applejack, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Alternate Universe, Romance, Mystery, Spike, Smolder, Adventure, Ember, Twilight Sparkle
Length: 8878

Applejack still is conflicted about the revelation that she could become a princess. However, she must put those feelings aside for now as she, Twilight, and Spike go the Dragon Lands to help Dragon Lord Ember solve a threat made against her.

Ever since Princess Celestia made the revelation that the other members of the Mane 6 can become alicorn princesses, life hasn't exactly been the same. Applejack took it the hardest, of course. How could somepony like her can become an alicorn? Her whole life and destiny has been on her farm, so everything she thought she knew about herself had become so mixed up.

Months later, AJ's dragon friend, Spike, received an urgent message from Ember to help her solve a threat that has been made against her. He asks Twilight and Applejack to accompany him there; inviting AJ because he had thought maybe that a trip can help ease her mind on the whole thing she has been facing.

However, both Spike and Applejack deal with problems of their own: they could slowly be getting an attraction to each other. Will Applejack's life make sense once more, and solve the threat? Or will more conflict rise up that will force her life-changing decision upon her?

Published 2018-01-01 08:20:06 UTC
Last updated 2018-05-30 22:34:18 UTC

Springtime

Honesty and Dragons

Chapter 1

Springtime

The rising of Celestia's sun shone over Ponyville, basking it in its warm and beautiful glow. Over in the many orchards of Sweet Apple Acres, Applejack was standing on a hill, waiting for just the right moment.

Once it did, it was time to get to work. "Yee-haw!" She shouted vigorously, and then she charged into the apple orchards.

Applejack raced through the many tall trees, inspecting each and every of them. And just as she expected, they all were having tiny white and pink blossoms nestled in the leaves.

It was springtime, and every week at this time, Applejack, and if she could wake up for it, Apple Bloom, would inspect the trees to see if the apple blossoms were blooming right. If the blossoms were blooming right, then the apples that would develop later during the summer would be just right and delicious.

This time, Apple Bloom couldn't wake up to go with her sister to inspect the apple blossoms, so Applejack left her little sister to sleep. After all, she had a busy day yesterday. She was out with Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo on Crusader business all day and pretty late into the night.

Applejack sometimes loved it when she was just herself looking over at the apple blossoms. Spring was one of her favorite times of year. A lot of her fondest memories happened during around this time throughout her younger years as a young filly. And right now, she needed to relive those memories to help her cope with her thoughts during the past few months.

Feeling the happiest she has been for the past few months, Applejack started to sing as she ran through the orchards and inspected the apple blossoms.

Applejack: Waking up in the light
Of a shining new day,
Giving thanks to the moon
For guiding my way.

There is no greater gift to the soul
Like each breath that my body could hold.
So, great spirits,
Hear my voice today.

Welcome, magic.
Welcome, sweet sun ray.
Love is no secret, look all around you.
Welcome to this day.

Soon, she was near the edge of Sweet Apple Acres, and she rested on a large and tall hill that showed the barn and farmhouse off in the distance. Then, she started back down, just walking to make sure she doesn't overwork herself again. She did that once, and her sleep deprivation caused more problems than fix them.

Life is simple and clear
When you make the right choice.
It's true that you're here
When you find your own voice.

Oh, my brothers and sisters, believe.
You are just what you are meant to be.
Oh, great spirits,
Hear my voice today.

Welcome, magic.
Welcome, sweet sun ray.
Love is no secret, look all around you.
Welcome to this day.

A few minutes later, Applejack found herself over at the spot where her parents had their secret wedding. The large and stunning fruit trees that were intertwining with each other into the shape of a heart was absolutely beautiful. The pink apple and white pear blossoms were just as lovely, and growing healthily. AJ went over to the base of the tree and gently placed a hoof on it.

"Hi, Ma. Hi, Pa." The young earth mare said to the two trees. "I wish you both can see how all of us have been doing. Granny's health is slowly getting worse, though. I don't know how much longer she can last. Grand Pear has been helping around the place with what Granny can't do right now, but I can see that he is also getting a little plum tuckered out. "

She then chuckled a little bit. "Big Mac and his marefriend, Sugar Belle, will be tying the knot pretty soon, sometime this spring. And Apple Bloom is showing signs that she is starting to notice colts; mostly because she is having a thing for her friend, Tender Taps. But, she ain't going out on a date until much later, that much I know."

Her smile then faded. "As for me, well, it's my birthday, and I'm still trying to wrap my head around what Princess Celestia told me and my friends a few months ago. But, right now, I can't worry about that. My family needs me." She then leaned towards the trunk and placed her forehead on it. "I love ya both."

With that, Applejack moved away from the tree and headed back to the orchard to continue looking over the apple blossoms. Soon, she was done with the inspection; all of the blossoms were beautiful and growing nicely. Next, AJ went over to check the farm animals. Since it was spring, many of them were to have babies. And, she was right.

The pigs had piglets, the cows had calves, and the chickens had chicks sprinting all around. She giggled at all of the little animals who were starting to walk and play. She continued singing as she helped place food for all the new families.

Welcome, magic.
Welcome, sweet sun ray.
Love is no secret, look all around you.

Welcome, magic.
Welcome, sweet sun ray. (Sweet sun ray.)
Love is no secret, look all around you.
Welcome to this day.

Look all around you.

Love is no secret, look all around you.
Welcome to this day.

Applejack wiped the sweat from her brow, satisfied with completing her morning chores. But then, she realized something. Apple Bloom was still not up. She should've been up by now, helping Big Mac with breakfast.

AJ went into the kitchen, but strangely found it empty, and there was a faint scent of food that had been cooking earlier; probably while she was out in the orchards. There was a plate of apple fritter flapjacks on the table for her, along with a note.

Heading outta town with Big Mac. Will be back later.

- Apple Bloom.

Applejack smiled, but it looks like they won't be celebrating until they got back. Grand Pear was back at his farmhouse next door, so he'll come later to help. Granny is still asleep, so it's best to give her some rest. Maybe later, she'll bring some lunch up for her. But right now, she'll eat a bit and then head into town to see how her friends were doing, and see if they could celebrate later when her siblings get back.

Right now, Applejack was just plain confused. Twilight and Spike weren't at the castle, Fluttershy wasn't at her cottage, and Sugarcube Corner and Carousel Boutique were strangely closed for the day. And Rainbow Dash was most likely at practice with the Wonderblots in Cloudsdale, since she wasn't at her cloud home.

"Now, that's just weird." She muttered to herself. "Where is every pony?"

After wandering around Ponyville for a few hours, Applejack decided to just head on back home and get started on her other chores.

AJ arrived back at the farmhouse, but there still wasn't a single soul. Granny Smith should've been up by now, in the living room looking through one of the family albums, and Grand Pear should be helping with lunch.

"What the hay is going on here?" Applejack asked. With a frustrated huff, she decided to check out the barn.

When she got there, it was dark inside. "Is there anypony in here?" She asked.

Suddenly, the sunlight flooded in and there was confetti flying everywhere, some even falling on her face.

"SURPRISE!"

Author's Note

A/N: And that is the first chapter of the first story of the series and of the New Year of 2018. Wow, a lot of firsts, huh? But geez. Did I really make it that obvious about who will go first?

The song I used for this is "Welcome to this Day" from Brother Bear 2. It is actually a funny and lovable sequel to the first movie, which is childhood for me.

Okay, I'll see y'all in Chapter 2. Please let me know what you think so far.

Got to fly! ;)

Birthday Bash

Honesty and Dragons

Chapter 2

Birthday Bash

Applejack blinked in surprise at all of the ponies gathered in the barn. Big Mac and his fiancée Sugar Belle, Apple Bloom and the other two of the Cutie Mark Crusaders, Granny Smith, Grand Pear, and her friends were all there, along with the Cakes. There was a banner hung across one of the lofts, several presents placed in a large pile, and there was a two layered apple cinnamon cake with apple green frosting.

"Happy birthday, Applejack!" Pinkie Pie zoomed up to her and gave her a wide grin. "Were you surprised? I bet you were so surprised!"

Applejack chuckled. "You bet I was, Pinkie." She said to her friend.

Rainbow Dash landed on the ground and went up to her best friend and rival. "Happy birthday, AJ." She said, and the two of them shared a hoof bump.

"Thanks, RD." She said with a smile.

"Do you want to open up some presents?" Fluttershy asked, coming up to them.

"Come on, Applejack!" Pinkie exclaimed excitedly, dragging her to the pile of presents. "Which one do you want to open first?"

AJ laughed at her friend's over excitement. "Easy there, partner!" She scanned the semi-large pile and saw one that captured her eye. It was a large rectangular small box all wrapped up in yellow paper. Judging from the glittery green bow on it, she knew who it was from.

"Is this from you, Rarity?" She asked, raising a knowing brow.

Rarity laughed. "Of course, darling." She answered. "Open it."

Applejack grabbed an edge of the paper with her teeth and tore the wrapping away with one pull. She then opened the box and saw a simple yet lovely apple red dress. There were no sparkles, bows, or jewels that Rarity usually put on for a lot of her dresses. The velvet red dress only had short sleeves, and there were artificial pink apple blossoms on the embroidery and trim. There was also a large apple blossom clip for her Stetson hat or for her mane.

"Rare..." Applejack was speechless.

"I made it simple enough for yet fabulous enough for every pony else." Rarity said. "Just in case there is a special occasion in the future, you can wear it."

The country mare hugged her sophisticated friend. "Thanks."

"You're welcome." She hugged her back. "To be honest, I thought that you would open mine last."

Applejack chuckled. "Hey, you and I have different tastes, but you are one of my best friends. It won't really matter to me."

The two broke the hug, and Applejack placed the lid back on the wide and flat box. She then saw a smaller, more cube-like box that had been wrapped up in light red paper. She opened it and saw a shiny silver dog whistle. She grinned as she blew the silent whistle, and her loyal dog, Winona, came into the barn, tackled her mistress, and started licking her face.

Applejack laughed loudly as the licks tickled her face. "All right, Winona! Ya heard me, now settle down!" She said through her giggles.

Fluttershy then came up to her, and helped her up. "I thought that whistle would come in handy." She softly giggled.

Applejack hugged her. "Thanks, Fluttershy." She carefully placed the whistle back in the box, and then saw a more flat box. She opened it and saw a brand-new lasso.

"I thought you could use a new one after your last one snapped." Rainbow said, hovering up above her.

AJ smiled and brought her friend down to the ground for a hug. "Thanks, Rainbow Dash." She said. "And yer right. I do need a new lasso for herding the cattle and for training for future rodeos."

"Do mine now, do mine!" Pinkie hopped up. She then held up her present. Applejack opened it, and after the usual confetti burst out, and landed in her face, she brushed them off and saw a new cookbook.

"I looked through it, and there are some new recipes that include apples." Pinkie said. "Maybe soon, we can try one to see how it tastes."

AJ hugged her overly excited friend. "Thanks a lot, Pinkie." She said.

A wrapped box enveloped in raspberry pink magic then floated over to the country mare. She took it and then turned over to Twilight with a knowing smile. "Is it a book, Twilight?" She asked with a knowing smile.

The lavender alicorn smirked back at her, and gave it to her. "Not just a book." She said as Applejack tore the paper off and saw a brown blank journal, with a felt red apple on the cover. "I thought you could use a journal for your own personal thoughts."

AJ smiled at the Princess of Frienship and gave her a hug. "Thank ya, Twilight." She said. Then, she whispered the next part in her friend's ear. "This will help me more than ya can think."

When they released the hug, Spike then came up to the birthday girl. Applejack was still amazed that he was no longer the baby dragon she once knew when she first met him. He was now the size of a young stallion, towering a couple of inches above her, and his spines have grown edgier.

"Howdy, Spike." The farm mare greeted her dragon friend.

"Happy birthday, AJ." Spike said with a smile. "I have to say..." The dragon looked away, rubbing the back of his head.

Applejack gave him a confused look, but then had a sneaking suspicion. "Spike, did ya forget-"

"I didn't forget about your birthday!" Spike quickly assured her, waving his claws franctically. "I just... didn't know what to get you."

Twilight did a face-hoof.

"But, I promise that I will find you one as soon as possible." He vowed, while doing the Pinkie Promise.

Applejack rolled her eyes playfully, and placed a hoof on his shoulder. "C'mon now, Spike." She said. "I would've liked anything ya gave me."

The dragon gave her a thankful smile. "Thanks, AJ."

Pinkie then popped up and in between them. "Come on, everypony! Let's party!"

Granny Smith then walked over to her elder granddaughter. "Granny, I thought that ya be in bed." Applejack said.

"Naw." The elderly pony shrugged off. "I'd rather be missing mah legs than missing my grandfilly's birthday."

AJ smiled at her, and gave her a tender hug. Granny then turned over to Pinkie. "Now, how about that ditty I asked ya for?"

Pinkie zipped away, then immediately came back wih a specific record. "Right here!" She said with a wide grin. She then placed it on the record player. "Sing it, Granny!" She cheered as Granny began to sing. Sometimes, the other ponies would echo it, or sing along as they began dancing.

Granny Smith: Don't matter what you look like.
Don't matter what you wear.
How many rings you got on your hoof,
We don't care, no, we don't care.

Don't matter where you come from.
Don't even matter what you are.
A dog, a pig, a cow, a goat;
Got em' all in here, we got em' all in here!

If they all knew what they wanted,
What they wanted, need to do.
I told 'em what they needed,
Just like I be telling you.

All: You gotta dig a little deeper.

Granny: Find out who you are.

All: You gotta dig a little deeper.

Granny: It really ain't that far.

When you found out who you are,
You find out what you need.

All: Blue skies and sun shine,
Guaranteed.

You gotta dig, dig.
You gotta dig, dig.

As Applejack joined in the dancing, she felt like there was something that Granny was trying to imply in what she was singing. Maybe she'll ask her when all this is over, and it was just the two of them.

Granny suddenly pulled Spike aside and away from every pony after she saw him fawning over Rarity again. She finally decided to set his lovestruck mind straight.

Granny: Spike here is a mighty fine feller,
You wanna find the right one for ya.

Spike was a little confused by the question, but nodded slightly. But before he could turn his eyes back to the white unicorn, Granny began singing again.

That mare that ya keep pining for,
Will she make you really happy? No!

Spike was about to protest against it, but she continued.

All: Pining ain't got no soul,
Pining ain't got no heart.

Granny: All ya need is look beyond what ya see,
And y'all finally find that brand new start.

The elderly then began to spin the dragon around in a circle, almost drilling a hold into the ground. She then stopped him and smirked as the dragon had stars spinning around his head.

All: You gotta dig a little deeper.

Granny: Don't have far to go.

She then gestured with her head, and Spike followed it to see Applejack dancing with her little sister, Apple Bloom and her friend, Tender Taps. For one cruel moment, Spike felt like shunning what Granny was trying to imply. His heart belonged to Rarity only, right? But he shoved it aside, anyway. Applejack was one of his best friends, and only a friend. At least, that was what he told himself.

All: You gotta dig a little deeper.

Granny: Tell everypony Granny told you so.
Can't tell you what you'll find,
Maybe love or grant you a piece of mind.
Dig a little deeper and you'll know.

Though he wasn't feeling his face growing warm with heat, Spike still felt like keeping his eyes glued on the country mare. AJ was one of the six girls of whom he was pretty close with, other than Twilight and Rarity. She was reliable, strong, honest, caring, and he'll admit it this once, beautiful in her own way. He knew that the mares who had been his best friends for so long are all attractive in their own way.

Rainbow Dash, though, was cool and all, but not his type. But, she would definitely attract stallions that would have to keep up with her if they want her. Pinkie Pie also was pretty, but a little bit too energetic. Any stallion who would want her will have to have a similar mind that can understand her sheningans, which would probably be a one-in-a-million shot. Twilght, though, was like his mother, sister, and boss all in one. Any colt that would want her as a marefriend would definitely need his approval before getting any closer to her. Fluttershy, however, she was lovely, but he wouldn't make her happy, nor would she.

But, that only left Rarity and Applejack. Rarity was the mare that his heart began beating for since the moment he saw her. Her mane was like purple silk, curled wonderfully, and her eyes were sapphires. Her coat was as white as snow, and she had a generous heart to match her obvious exquiste beauty. However, the many times Spike had tried to impress her, the further away she seemed to get. Yet, his stubborn heart wanted the sophisticated unicorn. But, does it still?

Applejack, she was obviously pretty charming when he had first met her as well. Her mane was like straw that is glowing in the sun, and her eyes were like emeralds. Her orange coat always seemed like it was kissed by Celestia's sun; glowing amazingly, even when it was covered in dirt splotches and/or sweat. Her tiny white freckles on her face contrasted perfectly with her coat, giving her a sense of purity, despite her rough exterior. She really does care about all the ponies that mean to her, and she is not afraid to speak her mind. In Spike's mind, there is no pony that is better suited for the Element of Honesty.

The dragon finally got his conflicted mind out of its musings before any pony noticed. He then went back to celebrating with every pony else.

But, his intense pondering didn't go unnoticed by Granny Smith. She softly smiled while shaking her head. At least some part of what she was trying to say got to him. She slowly trotted over to her elder granddaughter and got her attention.

"Sugarcube." She called. Applejack turned to her granny.

"Yeah?" She asked. The elderly mare carefully beckoned her closer to with a frail hoof. AJ obeyed.

"Yer parents would be so proud of ya." She said to her.

Applejack was slightly taken aback. "Ya mean that?" She asked. Granny nodded while smiling widely.

Granny: Yer ma and pa were the loving ones,
Family through and through.
You your parents' daughter.
What they had in them, you got in you.

Applejack decided to take her granny in a little dance, and then switched with Grand Pear.

All: You gotta dig a little deeper.

Granny: For you, it's gonna be tough.

All: You gotta dig a little deeper.

Granny: You ain't dug that far enough.
Dig down deep inside yourself,
You'll found out what you need.

All: Blue skies and sunshine,
Guaranteed.

The celebrating then spilled outside of the barn, with everyone singing and dancing along.

"Come on, every pony!" Apple Bloom encouraged.

"Let me hear you sing!" Pinkie added joyfully.

Blue skies and sunshine,
Blue skies and sunshine,

Applejack: Blue skies and sunshine,

All: Guaranteed!

Every pony then started cheering loudly as the party continued on for the rest of the day. Granny sat down in a rocking chair, and watched with a soft smile as Applejack mingled with her friends. Now, all she needs to come to terms with whatever is bothering her for the past couple of months.

Author's Note

A/N: I hoped you guys enjoyed this. I haven't been well today, so I'm glad I finished this chapter before I really need to get some rest.

The song I used is "Dig a Little Deeper" from The Princess and the Frog. I love that movie, and I've been wanting to try this song in one of my stories for a while now. I don't own it in any way, though.

Almost forgot! I have the results for the next love story for Stories of True Love. After calculating all the votes in my poll on FanFiction, reviews and/or comments, and here on this site, winning by one extra point ahead, is Flashlight. Don't worry. Fluttercord will get another chance to go next when that love story is complete.

Until Chapter 3, which will have one more song before we take a break from singing, I'll see y'all. Please let me know about what you think.

Got to fly! ;)

Late Night Thoughts

Honesty and Dragons

Chapter 3

Late Night Thoughts

That evening, Applejack was lying down on her bed. It was a great birthday party that she had, with all of her friends and her family there, the presents, the cake, and everything else. She was pretty sure that her stomach was stuffed and will be for until dinner the next day. Leave it to Pinkie to have so much ready and for a lot of ponies.

Suddenly, Applejack remembered that her granny wanted to talk to her about something earlier. She got herself off her bed and quietly trotted over to her granny's bedroom. The light was on, so that meant that she was still up.

AJ knocked on the door. "Granny?" She called out softly, so that every pony else wouldn't hear her.

"Come on in, Applejack." Granny said.

Applejack quietly entered the room. Granny Smith was sitting up in her bed, with a large pile of pillows behind her. The elderly pony patted the side of the bed, telling her granddaughter to come sit. AJ obeyed.

"Ya said that ya wanted to talk to me earlier?" Applejack asked, curious as to what her granny meant.

"Yeah." Granny confirmed. "What's been bugging ya, sugarcube?" She asked. Applejack blinked and tilted her head, not understanding. "For the past five months, ya had been lost in thought. There something ya wanted to say?"

Applejack felt her blood starting to run cold. Now she understood what her granny meant. But, she couldn't tell any pony other than her friends or the princesses about what was being bothering her. Celestia herself even gave her and her friends, except Twilight, about this. They must not tell anyone. Sooner or later, they would have to make their decision, and the pressure was already enough. They didn't need any pony else's opinions about the matter. It would just make it harder than it already is.

AJ knew she couldn't lie, so how was she going to explain this to Granny? Finally, the younger mare answered her. "I... I couldn't really tell ya, Granny. It's hard to say right now, but it is somethin' that I need to figure out myself. Once I know what I need to do, I'll explain everything to ya. I promise."

Granny knew that there was still something else that Applejack wasn't telling her, but seeing the conflicted look on her granddaughter's face, she knew that she wasn't quite ready to tell the complete truth.

She remembered her son and daughter-in-law when they were around that age that Applejack is right now. They were keeping the secret of them being in love from her and Grand Pear because they knew that if they were discovered, they would be in trouble. Yet they couldn't help it. Maybe something similar is going on with Applejack. Maybe she isn't in love, but there is something that only she needed to figure out.

"All right, sugarcube." Granny eventually complied, putting a frail hoof over her granddaughter's own. "Go and find whatever's pulling on ya. But remember, yer family will always be with ya, no matter the choices ya make."

Applejack felt a weight go off her shoulders and smiled at her. "Thanks, Granny." She said.

Granny returned the smile tiredly. "Git on and hit the hay, sugarcube." She said. "We have another day ahead of us."

AJ nodded, and gave her granny a hug goodnight. Then, she left the room, closing the door behind her. But, she wasn't quite ready to go back to bed yet. Instead, she quietly trotted down the stairs and went outside.

Feeling the cool night air hit her face felt so wonderful. And Luna had the full moon high up in the sky, shining brightly. Applejack wandered throughout the orchards, seeing that the apple blossoms were closed for the night, and that the ground around the trees were littered with fallen pale pink petals.

Applejack soon saw that she had arrived over at the pond where she and her family or friends would go swimming. She went down to the shore, looking down at her reflection. For a brief moment, she swore that she saw something feathery from behind her back and something sharp pertruding out of her forehead.

The country mare blinked, ridding herself of what she saw. She hated this. She hated keeping a secret from her family, and a life-changing one at that as well. Well, how could she explain what was going on to them? If any pony was told that they could become royalty and had to keep it on the down low, even to their own families, it would be pretty hard.

"What should I do?" Applejack said to herself. "Am I really willing to give up everything I thought I knew for something else? I just... I just don't know what to do." Feeling the conflict building up, she then began to sing.

Applejack: The earth's still cold,
The fields no more bare.
The branches fold
Against the wind that's everywhere.

A breeze then started to blow, making Applejack's mane fly in the wind and apple blossom petals dance in the wind and around the earth mare.

The birds had left
So they'll survive.
That snow so deep, all critters sleep
To keep themselves alive.

AJ then began walking away from the pond and up the hill where she would wait for the sun to rise so that she could begin her errands through the orchards.

They do what they must for now
And trust in their plan.
If I trust in mine, somehow
I might find who I am.

But where do I go from here?
So many voices ringing in my ear.

Applejack watched as the petals flew around, and in her mind, she saw images forming. The first was her family smiling at her, with Apple Bloom holding out an apple pie.

The image disappeared as the petals flew past her again, this time showing an image of Princess Celestia. She used her golden magic to levitate a crown and floated it toward her. Then, the image faded again, leaving Applejack more conflicted.

Which is the voice
That I was meant to hear?
How will I know?
Where do I go from here?

Applejack then started running through the orchards until she reached the tree that represented the love between her parents. The breeze softly blew the apple blossom petals all around her again, this time showing an image of her own parents to her. AJ smiled fondly at them before they faded.

My world has changed,
And so have I.
I've learned to choose,
And even learned to say goodbye.

She then placed a hoof on the base of the tree, while looking around the clearing. All of the trees, whether they were apple or pear, seemed to form a path for her to follow.

The path ahead,
So hard to see.
It winds and bends, but where it ends
Depends on only me.

Applejack left the tree and started down the path while she kept singing.

In my heart, I don't feel part
Of so much I've known.

Soon, AJ reached the outskirts of Ponyville, in the field where she and her friends would have their monthly picnic, which actually was the next afternoon. The town was still sleeping, and in the distance, Applejack could see the city of Canterlot. The flower petals were back, still dancing in the wind around her as she slowly sat down.

Now, it seems it's time to start
A new life on my own.

But where do I go from here?
So many voices ringing in my ear.

In her mind, Applejack saw her family, Princess Celestia, and her parents again. Her head started to pound from all of the pressure and she quickly pushed them away.

Which is the voice
That I was meant to hear?
How will I know?
Where do I go from here?

After she finished singing, Applejack sighed heavily. Maybe she needs some rest. That could get her mind off of all this for at least a few hours. Maybe at the picnic, she can talk with Twilight and see what she can do.

With a small yawn, Applejack stood up and started walking back to Sweet Apple Acres. However, her heartfelt lament didn't go unheard. Once she had left, Spike emerged from a nearby bush. He was also feeling restless and was wandering around the fields when he heard AJ singing. He stopped and hid in the shrubbery, listening to her sing.

All of this must really be hard on her. Just a few months ago, she was living happily with her family, not really too much of a care. Now, she was really lost in thought about this. Personally, Spike could see how she could be a princess, and so do the rest of the girls, but he knew that she never even dwelled on the thought. Being a simple farm pony was her destiny, yet she was so much more than that.

I hate that eavesdropping I did on AJ, but I couldn't help it. He thought to himself. "What can I do to help her?" He quickly asked himself.

Then, he remembered. "I still haven't gotten my birthday present for her." He said. "But what can I give her?" As he pondered, his eyes wandered over to Canterlot in the distance. An idea then came up.

"I think I know what to give her." Spike said. "And I think somepony might be willing to help."

Author's Note

A/N: I really hope that I finish some of these stories soon. I have some more in my mind, just wanting to get started, but I already have too much on my plate. So, no new stories until I finish at least four of them.

The song that I used is "Where Do I Go From Here?" from Pocahontas: Journey to the New World. I loved that movie when I was a little girl, so that brings back so many memories of me singing that song over and over. I sadly don't own it in any way.

Okay, until I get back from camp late next week, I'll see y'all! Please leave a review about what you think. And, for those of you who read Pokémon: Adventures in Equestria, if you haven't already, please check out my blog. It will stay up until I get back.

Got to fly! ;)

An Urgent Message

Honesty and Dragons

Chapter 4

An Urgent Message

The next afternoon, Twilight was wondering where Spike was, since she hadn't seen him since earlier that morning. She had looked all over the castle twice.

"Ugh!" She groaned in frustration. "Spike, where are you?" She called out.

No sooner did she say that, in a burst of yellow light, Spike appeared right in front of her, making her jump.

"Spike!" She exclaimed. "Where have you been?" She demanded. Twilight then noticed that her dragon assistant had a satchel slung around his shoulder. "What's that?" She asked.

Spike looked around, and then grabbed Twilight by the hoof. "Not here." He said, and he quickly dragged her to the library.

"What is going on, Spike?" Twilight demanded as soon as Spike closed the doors.

The dragon looked over at her with a big smile on his face. "I have gotten Applejack's birthday present!" He said.

Twilight's previous anger vanished. "Really?" She asked. "What did you get?"

Spike then began to explain. "Well, first I had to go to Canterlot to talk with Princess Celestia about the gift. Once she said it was okay, I took it and she was kind enough to quickly teleport me back to Ponyville."

Twilight was a little confused. "But what did you get for Applejack?" She asked.

Spike reached into his satchel and pulled out a single golden apple, almost into a perfect shape of a heart, though he probably didn't notice, glowing softly in the sunlight, and fit perfectly into the palm of his claw.

"You got her one of Princess Celestia's golden apples?" Twilight gawked. This was really an amazing gift for Applejack.

Spike nodded. "Yep." He then put it back into his satchel. "No telling AJ until I got it wrapped."

But as soon as he turned to leave the library, he felt his stomach lurch. Then, he coughed out a stream of magic green fire. A piece of paper appeared from the flames once they had resided. Spike caught it once it fluttered down for him to reach.

"What is it, Spike?" Twilight asked.

"It's for me." Spike answered. "I'll handle this, Twilight. You go on and meet the girls for your picnic."

"If you say so, Spike." Twilight said hesitantly, then disappeared with a burst of magenta sparkles.

Spike began to read the message, and the further he read, the more his eyes began to widen.

Minutes later, Twilight was having a picnic lunch with her friends. She magically lifted a teacup of punch to her lips and sipped it before putting it back down. "So, how have you girls been with... your, um..." Twilight trailed off, trying to think of a proper word. "Decision?" She finally asked.

"Honestly, it's been gnawing at me every single moment." Applejack admitted, rubbing her foreleg after she put down her sandwich.

"I feel you, AJ." Rainbow Dash said. "The only time I can get to not think about it is when I practice with the Wonderbolts."

"I think we're all still trying to wrap our heads around this." Fluttershy said.

"I wish I could say that I understand." Twilight piped in. "I mean, if Princess Celestia had told me ahead of time that I could be an alicorn princess, I probably would be feeling what you girls are feeling."

"Though I've always dreamed of being a princess," Rarity came in, "I can see why all of you would have some reservations about it."

"I think that would be an understatement, Rarity." Rainbow said.

Pinkie then decided to lighten the mood. "Can somepony pass me a piece of cake?" She asked. Fluttershy pushed a cut slice towards her. The pink earth mare then sent the plate flying, and she ate the cake slice in one bite. That made the other girls smile a bit.

Just then, Spike came running up to them, almost out of breath. "Twi... light." He panted. "I... have... news from..."

Applejack came over to the dragon. "Just take a deep breath, Spike." She said.

Spike panted for a few more seconds before he regained his normal breathing rate. "Thanks a lot for that, AJ." He said, and then turned back to Twilight. "I have some news from the Dragon Lands. It's urgent."

The girls all shared a brief, worried glance.

Back in the map room, Spike was telling the Mane 6 about the message he recieved.

"In the message I got from Ember, she said that a threat had been made against her, saying that soon, her reign as Dragon Lord will end."

Twilight was deep in thought. "This is definitely something that needs to solved." She said. "Dragons don't form mutinies, no matter how stubborn they are."

"Exactly." Spike said. "And as the official Ambassor of Peace to the dragons, it is my responsbility to address this."

"Can I come with you?" Twilight asked him. "Not only do I want to learn more about dragon culture, but as the Princess of Friendship, there has to be a way to resolve this peacefully."

Spike thought about that. "I don't see why not." He said.

"Yes!" Twilight cheered, flying up in the air.

"You want somepony else to come along?" Rainbow Dash asked, wanting some adventure.

Spike nodded. "But I think I can take along only one other." He said. "Too many ponies can cause a lot of unwanted attention, and not really the good kind. I can take Twilight because of three reasons: she's the Princess of Friendship, she's already been to the Dragon Lands, and Ember knows her."

"So, who would you like to accompany you?" Rarity asked.

Spike thought about that for a minute. Really, Rarity and Rainbow were the only ones besides Twilight who had been to the Dragon Lands, but there was somepony else who really needed something like this.

"Hey, AJ. What about you?"

Applejack was taken aback. "Me? Why me?"

"If we need a trial, we need to know who's telling the truth, and nopony does that better than you." Spike explained. "Also, I think you need to ease up a little bit. You have been getting a little on edge since Princess Celestia told you about... eh, your possibility."

The dragon went up to her. "Come on, Applejack. What do you say?"

Applejack looked down at the floor, deep in thought. Spike did have a point. A trip could help ease her mind, and maybe it could help her come to her decision. Also, he was right. Honesty is her Element, and she can easily tell if somepony's telling the truth.

She then looked up and stared at Spike right in the eye, looking determined. "I'll do it." She said.

Spike smiled widely, making AJ return it brightly. But then, they both seemed to get hypnotized the longer they stare into each other's green eyes.

"Spike!" Twilight called, snapping the both of them out of their gaze. "Come on! We better start packing."

"Right." Spike said, turning away from Applejack. "I'll write to Ember and let her know that we will be coming over."

Applejack didn't know why, but she felt like her heart was thumping harder when Spike's draconic eyes came into her mind. Were they always that green? And though they were supposed to be frightening and full of greed, she knew that there was not a greedy bone in his body.

AJ turned away from everypony else and placed a hoof on her chest to calm her rapidly beating heart. What the hay? She thought, mentally scolding herself. What just happened? What is going on with me? She then shook her head. I guess I'm just nervous. Well, I better git back to Sweet Apple Acres and start packing. And explaining to my family about this.

Author's Note

A/N: How was that? Good enough? So Spike, Twilight and Applejack will be going to the Dragon Lands to help Ember.

Great! Season 8 is finally here! So far, I like the first two episodes. I'm excited for the rest to come.

At first, I wanted to delay this chapter until a certain episode came out. But then I decided to insert the major turning point either later in the story, depending on how this will take to finish, or later in the series.

I'll see y'all in Chapter 5, then! Please let me know about what you think.

Got to fly! ;)

Starting on the Journey

Honesty and Dragons

Chapter 5

Starting on the Journey

That evening, Applejack was in her room, packing some of her stuff in a bundle. Apple Bloom soon came in with a small pout on her face.

"Do ya have to go?" She asked her sister for the twelfth time that day since AJ came home and told her family the situation.

Applejack sighed. "Listen, sugarcube." She said. "A threat has been against Ember. Whoever it is wants her outta the way, or worse." She let that sink in for a couple of seconds before continuing. "Spike, Twilight and I have to help her figure out who is it and bring him to justice."

Apple Bloom thought about the seriousness of the situation, and then sighed. "Well, at least you ain't missin' the Sisterhooves Social again." She then gave her big sister a hug. "Promise me you'll be back soon."

Applejack returned the hug. "I promise, lil' sis." She said.

Then, the youngest Apple sibling left her sister's bedroom, closing the door behind her. Applejack tied the knapsack on a stick and propped it against the wall. She turned towards her window and looked up to the starry sky.

"Ma, Pa." She whispered. "If y'all can hear me, I hope ya can help me with this. Maybe Spike is right. I do need something like this, to get my mind off of all that drama that happened to me during these past few months. So I hope y'all can help me make the right choice, whichever one that might be."

Suddenly, two shooting stars appeared in the sky, catching Applejack's attention and making her gasp quietly. But as soon as they appeared, they vanished. AJ quietly trotted downstairs and outside to get a better look at the night sky. Feeling the cool early spring breeze hit her body and blowing her mane gently, she headed out further and began to sing.

Applejack: What is my true life's purpose?Who will stay by my side?Why do I always feel I wanna hide?

Will I still have their support,Regardless of my choice?Will all ponies listen to my voice?

Tell me why I ain't sleepingAnd my heart is leaping inside me.Could this be one of those timesWhen your feelings decide?

The following morning, Applejack was outside, hugging her family goodbye with Twilight and Spike watching her. Then, with her bundle tied across her back, she joined them and they started towards the Dragon Lands. A couple of hours later, after walking a good distance, AJ asked them why they don't just fly since they have wings.

"We wouldn't want to leave you in the dust, now would we?" Spike answered with a silly grin. That comment, along with the grin, not made Applejack return it with a snarky smile of her own, but she also got a warm bubbling sensation in her chest. Quickly, she mentally smothered it away. What the hay is going on with me? She screamed in her mind. I've never felt this weird heat in my chest or face when I'm around Spike before! Why now?

Discreetly, AJ lingered behind a little to collect her thoughts. For some reason, her eyes drifted ahead towards Spike, not wanting to let him leave their sight. In her mind, she started singing.

Has he always looked that tall?Was he always that darn sweet?Why now do I feel shy when we meet?

Spike then decided to stretch his wings. Twilight just rolled her eyes as he did flips in the air. Ever since he got those wings, he loved using them. Applejack just smiled fondly as he spun in circles in the air.

When did he get good at flying?What can he see from there?Could there be new horizons to share?

All these questions keep churningAnd burning inside me.What are these feelings I feelWhen he's here by my side?

"Come on, Spike!" Twilight called up to him. "Let's make camp." Applejack averted her eyes away from the dragon above her and looked over at the horizon. It was already sunset. It only felt like a couple of hours since they had started.

Spike landed back on the ground. "Okay, Twilight." He said once his feet was back on land.

Feeling that tingling warmth building up in her chest again by how close he was to her, Applejack shyly moved away. "I'll get some firewood." She offered and then quickly headed into the woods to find suitable sticks. Once she was sure that she was out of earshot, she began singing aloud.

I need to know these answers.I need to find my way.Seize my tomorrow.Learn from yesterday.

I need to take these chances.Let all of my worst fears go.Can't tell what's waiting.

Still, I need to go.I need to know.

Soon, the fire had started, thanks to Spike. Twilight magically handed him a stick with marshmallows. He took it with a smile and began hovering the end over the fire. Twilight then offered Applejack a stick of marshmallows. The orange earth pony mare took in her hooves and held it over the fire.

For some reason, Spike felt like he couldn't tear his eyes away from AJ. The firelight was giving a warm glow on her face, making her already piercing green eyes more beautiful than they already were. Even the tiny white freckles on her cheeks were standing out, contrasting the bold orange color of her coat. When Applejack glanced over at him, Spike averted his eyes back to the fire to watch the flames toast his marshmallows. In his mind, he began singing.

Spike: I've always known that she's amazing.Daring and bold and sure,With a heart that's too good to be pure.

Why do I now feel so tingly?How do I look tonight?I just want things for her to be right.

A few minutes later, the fire was out and the marshmallows were eaten. The three travelers were lying in sleeping bags, looking up at the stars. Twilight was writing something in a journal with the light emitting from her horn. Spike stole another glance over at AJ, who kept her eyes glued up to the moon shining above.

All these questions keep churningAnd burning inside me.What are these feelings I feelWhen she's here by my side?

Suddenly, Applejack got up and wiggled out of her sleeping bag. Twilight tore away from her journal to look up at her. "Where are you going, Applejack?" She asked her.

"Just out for a little stroll." AJ answered. "I would like some fresh air." Twilight and Spike shared a worried glance. "I won't be too far away." Applejack promised.

"If you say so." Twilight eventually complied. AJ smiled at her friends, and then headed out into the dark woods.

"I need some air too." Spike said, getting out of his own sleeping bag and leaving the campsite in the sky and in the opposite direction from Applejack's. Twilight was a little confused as to why Spike would want a midnight stroll, but she decided to ignore it. For now, at least.

Eventually, Applejack reached the end of the woods and out towards a clearing. She was grateful that they had little ways to go until they got out of the forest. The cool breeze nipped at her skin, relieving her. She had been wrestling with her heart all day, trying to force it back into a regular pace everytime Spike was in her line of vision. She had never felt this way towards Spike! Why now, though? Was it because of what happened in the Map Room of the castle a couple of days before? That was the thing that started this whole mess. She was glad she didn't have to make much of an excuse to leave the campsite. She felt like the world was forcing a whole lot of problems on her.

Spike was flying above, seeing that the Dragon Lands were only a few more miles away. They would get there in the morning. He could see now why Rainbow Dash preferred flying almost all the time. It does clear up the mind. He really needed this. The sudden spiking heat he would get in his stomach whenever he was around Applejack was causing his head to spin. He had never acted this way before around her. Usually, it was around Rarity. But now, as an image of the dazzling white unicorn came into his mind, that familiar heart-thumping sensation he would get around her greatly faded. When a picture of the pretty orange earth pony came back, the feeling came back too, but it felt stronger. What was going on with him? He only hoped that whatever was happening to him won't cause him to lose focus on the mission.

Unbeknownst to the both of them, Spike and Applejack started to sing together as the wind gently whipped around them.

Both: I need to know these answers.*I need to find my way.Seize my tomorrow.**Learn from yesterday.*

I need to take these chances.Let all of my worst fears go.Can't tell what's waiting.

Still, I need to go.I need to know.

Feeling a little better now, both the dragon and the earth mare headed back to the campsite. When they arrived at the same time, they saw that Twilight had already fallen asleep in her sleeping bag, snuggling with her journal. The sight made both AJ and Spike chuckle.

"Had the same idea, huh Spike?" Applejack asked him, looking over at him once she stopped laughing.

"Yeah." He answered. "Are you feeling a little better?" He asked.

"Eeyup." AJ confirmed with a small smile. Spike returned it before stretching up his arms and letting out a large yawn.

"Well, we best get some sleep." He said as he walked over to his sleeping bag. "We'll arrive at the Dragon Lands tomorrow."

"All right." Applejack said as she went over to her own sleeping bag and crawled inside it. "Good night, Spike." She said, closing her eyes.

"Night, AJ." Spike returned it. Soon, the both of them fell asleep.

Author's Note

A/N: Please tell me it was worth it. I would really appreciate that. Stress aside, I hoped you have enjoyed it!

The song I used is "I Need to Know" from Barbie: The Island Princess. I remember when I was a little girl and I would watch that movie over and over again. I was reliving that part of my childhood watching it and this song came into my mind as to this scene. I think it worked pretty good. I don't the song in any way or form.

Sorry if I kept you guys waiting on this. It seems that my stupid tablet isn't going to get fixed any time soon. It's been like that for a couple of months now! It should be fixed! :ajbemused: Blame busy parents and annoying school work. And like I have said before, even if I do get my tablet working again, there's a high chance that all of my work will be gone. Starting all of that over already sounds exhausting.

Thankfully, that might change in a week. School is almost out! I can make it! Hopefully, I can get some more work done on my other stories as well. :twilightsmile:

Well, until the next chapter in any story, I'll see y'all! Please leave a review about what you think. Also, leave a comment about which couple should go next in my story, Stories of True Love. Deadline is this Saturday.

Got to fly! ;)