Spike and the eight mares

''Spike!!!'' Rainbow Dash exclaimed looking at a purple and green dragon floating before her. So shocked by the return of her friend, she became too stunned to continue flying and abruptly landed in front of the CMC.

He appeared taller than every other stallion Rainbow knew, even Big Macintosh and Snowflake. Hell, as far as she could tell, he might even be taller than Princesses Celestia and Luna. She scanned Spike top to bottom, giving special attention to his wings. She noticed they were way bigger than her own, and also gave off a crystal-like shine. Now stepping back, she could see Spike was wearing a black vested hoodie with black cargo pants.

''Uh, Rainbow Dash, you okay?'' Spike inquired to the still stunned Rainbow Dash. ''Oh wait, it's because of my wings, isn't it? I know they look awesome, and dang are they fast. Heck, I bet I could even beat you in a race now.'' Spike boasted with a mischievous grin. As he expected, the sudden challenge to her ego snapped Rainbow Dash right out of her daze.

''What was that, dragon breath?! You think just because you grew a set of wings of your own that you can outfly thefastestflyer in Equestria?! In your dreams!'' Rainbow's competitive spirit erased any lingering sense of shock and awe and replaced it with overbearing self-confidence.

''We’ll just see about that. How about the first one back to Ponyville becomes the fastest flyer in Equestria?'' proposed Spike, cockily puffing out his chest. He suddenly took a glance behind his cyan friend and noticed the three teenaged mares behind her, instantly recognizing who they were on sight. ''Hell, I'll even give you a handicap and carry the CMC back with me,'' he said, pointing towards the trio.

''Ha! You're on! Try not to cry when I beat you, dragon boy!'' Rainbow Dash gibed, already turning back towards Ponyville and placing herself into racing position.

Spike swooped down for a smooth landing in front of his three friends. Applebloom’s and Scootaloo’s mouths hung wide open, still looking at Spike with awestruck gazes. Sweetie Belle was less in awe, though only because she was barely conscious, still exhausted from her attempts to catch up with her fellow crusader.

''Spike? Is...is that you?'' marveled Applebloom, getting a better look at the now larger-sized dragon.

''In the living flesh,'' Spike replied, posing in different positions so the girls could get a better look at him.

''Hey, enough stalling! I'm waiting over here!'' Rainbow Dash interrupted, readying herself for a direct flight to Ponyville.

''Hey, I'm simply giving you some time to gaze upon my awesomeness,'' Spike said, imitating Rainbow Dash’s trademark cockiness.

''I don't think I'll be gazing upon it very much with you eating my dust and all that,'' Dash boasted, returning the ego-filled remark with one of her own.

''Oh okay, it's on now,'' Spike lowered to all fours, matching Rainbow’s starting position. With a swipe of his robust tail, he placed the three teenagers on his back. ''So, first one back to Ponyville is the winner.''

''Fine. But it'll take you forever to keep up!'' Rainbow Dash roared, blasting off into the sky.

''Hey! We didn't even saygoyet!'' Spike shouted, spreading his wings and taking off after the rainbow-colored speed demon.

*****

Looking back over her shoulder, Rainbow Dash couldn't see any glimpse of Spike behind her. ''Ha! Guess Spike just couldn't keep up with me, after all,'' Rainbow thought aloud, only to be cut off by a shadowy figure above her.

''Yeah, you're right! Your huge ego is something I just can't keep up with, but I'm so getting ready to beat you in this race!'' Spike taunted, overpassing Rainbow Dash.

''Uh, Spike...don't ya think...we're going a bit too fast?!'' Applebloom quavered.

Unfortunately, Spike either ignored her or failed to hear her. It could honestly have been either one. She could barely hear her own voice over the sheer wind force, after all. The young farm girl was inwardly wishing at the moment that she shared her unicorn friend’s state of near unconsciousness. Looking over to her right, she glared at the only one who seemed to beenjoyingtheir impromptu flight.

''Whoohoo!!!!Faster, Spike! We got to beat Rainbow Dash! Come on!YEEHAW!!!!!'' Scootaloo screamed, urging Spike to pick up the pace.

[Ponyville]

Twilight had made it back to Ponyville earlier that night via long-range teleportation and found traversing the now empty streets of the town, using the light of Luna’s moon to guide her path to Rarity’s boutique. She ran through her mental checklist for the party as the flamboyantly designed store came into view. After she arrived, it wasn’t long before she and the rest of her friends changed into their outfits for the party. With everyone dressed and everything set, all that was left was the arrival of the guest of honor....and Rainbow dash.

''Where is she? Rainbow Dash should have been back by now,'' Twilight fretted, looking at Pinkie Pie. The party mare was dressed in a pink dress decorated with colorful balloons and a black leather jacket that said,“Party Time!”''We need to go over everything on my checklist before Spike gets here,'' the lavender alicorn said.

''Sorry Twilight, I thought Rainbow Dash would have been back by now,'' Pinkie said, similarly looking over her friend's attire. Twilight was wearing a beautiful, dark blue dress that had each star constellation you could think of on it.

''Jeez, this is just like her, can't even be bothered to show up to a party unless it's about her,'' Rarity scoffed. ''That's probably why Spike left in the first place,'' she mumbled to herself.

The frustrated fashionista stood in front of her full-length mirror, overlooking her ensemble for any creases or wrinkles. Instead of the usual glamorous curls, she chose to wear her hair down, thinking that it made a better match with her Pony Tones outfit. She just finished blowing a strand of hair out of her face, when she was startled by Applejack suddenly bursting through the boutique’s front door. Rarity grew concerned when she noticed AJ seemed to be both out of breath and terribly worried.

''Applejack, what seems to be the problem, darling?''

''Have any of ya'll seen Applebloom as of late? I can't find her anywhere!'' Applejack panted, still trying to catch her breath. Her cut up blue jeans, white T-shirt and brown vest were slightly damp from her sweat. She had likely run over all the way from Sweet Apple Acres.

''No, but now that you mention it, I haven't seen Sweetie Belle since this morning either,'' Rarity said, a sense of worry now creeping into her voice.

''Maybe they’re with Rainbow Dash? They were asking about her when I saw them earlier. They are probably just running late,'' Pinkie Pie said, trying to calm down her worried friends.

''I hope your right, Pinkie Pie,'' Applejack said with a more relaxed tone.

''Umm....girls, what's that in the sky?'' Fluttershy asked, pointing out the window. The four other mares looked through the window and quickly noticed the rainbow blur streaking towards the Friendship Castle.

''Oh come now, Fluttershy darling, it’s Rainbow Dash,'' Rarity said.

''No, not her, the thing next to her,'' Fluttershy clarified.

The others took another look out the window, squinting their eyes in concentration at the direction Fluttershy pointed. Sure enough, there was something there. A speeding green comet was right beside the rainbow blur, keeping pace with it as both approached the castle at high speed.

''I don't know, Fluttershy, but we're gonna find out. Come on, girls!'' Twilight yelled, leading her friends towards the castle. Once they were a few blocks away, they could see two figures bickering at each other in the distance. One figure had a voice they instantly recognized.

''I totally beat you, lizard boy!'' yelled Rainbow Dash, staring down a tall figure the girls didn’t recognize.

''What?! You must be blind, ‘cause I know for a fact that I hit the ground first!'' the taller figure retorted.

At first, it was too dark to see the mysterious figure clearly. But as the girls got closer, the light from Luna’s moon began to illuminate the figure’s features. The familiar color combination of purple and green scales, and the voice’s familiar tone with their friend,gave the unknown figure’s identity away instantly.

''SPIKE!!!!!"Twilight, Pinkie, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Applejack exclaimed.

''Huh? Oh, hey guys,'' Spike said, looking at the five stunned girls. Twilight was the first to shrug off her shock, running towards her number one assistant with tears in her eyes, wanting to be the first to give him a welcome back hug.

''Welcome home, Spike!'' Twilight cried, wrapping her arms around his neck.

''Yeah, I'm home,'' Spike replied.

The sight of his closest friend in the world made him start shedding a few tears of his own. He returned Twilight’s hug with one arm, keeping balanced from the sudden contact.

''Um, sorry to interrupt,'' started AppleJack, trying to wipe away her tears of joy and finding it useless, ''but have either of you seen Applebloom on your way back?''

''Oh, right!'' Spike said, a look of sudden realization flashed across his eyes.

With his arm still wrapped around Twilight, Spike lowered his wings, revealing the three teenaged mares behind his back. The crusaders still had stunned looks of excitement and fear on their faces. Applejack and Rarity rushed over at the sight of their little sisters.

''Applebloom!Are ya okay?'' Applejack asked, her tone laced with worry.

''That. Was. Awesome! Did ya see us, Applejack? Oh wait, you couldn't. But ya saw how fast Spike was going though, right?'' Applebloom jabbered eagerly, looking up at her older sister with adrenaline pumping through her veins.

''He even kept up with Rainbow Dash!!'' Scootaloo added with just as much excitement.

''Kept upnothing! I totally smoked her sorry flank!'' Spike barked. He tried to turn his head toward them, but was stopped by Twilight's hands around his neck.

Rarity ignored all of them and ran towards a still dazed Sweetie Belle. Grabbing her in her arms, Rarity checked the teen over from top to bottom to see if there was anything wrong with her while simultaneously combing her mane with magic.

''Sweetie Belle, are you okay?! Say something, if you're okay!'' Rarity pleaded.

Sweetie Belle looked at her sister and screamed, ''WE’RE GOING TO SADDLE ARABIA!!!!!!!!!!'' Making all the mares and Spike turn towards her.

''Um, Sweetie Belle, what do you meanwe'regoing to Saddle Arabia? If you're talking about the girls, Spike, and I, then yes, you're correct. But if you're talking about you and the Crusaders...then what in Equestria are you on?!'' Rarity ranted, trying hard to understand what her sister was thinking.

''Pinkie Pie and Applejack said that if Rainbow Dash loses the bet, she'll have to take us to Saddle Arabia.''

Rarity looked at Pinkie Pie and Applejack with a look that screamed‘why in Celestia's name would you tell them that.’

Rainbow Dash felt a cold sweat run down her back when she heard Sweetie’s words. Suddenly, the terms of the bet ran through her mind, and the confidence she once possessed quickly turned into regret. The gears of her mind began spinning rapidly as she tried to figure out an excuse to get her out of yet another mess her mouth had gotten her into.

''Look you three, I didn't lose the bet, so I don't have to watch over any of you,'' she stated, trying to end the conversation before any of the others could get a real good look at Spike.

''Really Rainbow Dash?''Applebloom said, not falling for it. She pointed a finger at Spike, prompting everyone else to stare at their draconic friend, whom was struggling to pry an overemotional Twilight off of him. She had wrapped her whole body around him, refusing to let go.

Applejack’s, Pinkie’s, Fluttershy’s, and Rarity’s eyes flew wide open in shock as they suddenly took a good, long look at their friend’s growth. Trying to pry off the lavender alicorn made Spike’s newfound muscles bulge with exertion and covered his toned body in sweat. The four mares’ hearts skipped a beat when they realized just how handsome he looked. The baby drake they knew before had returned with a body that reminded them of the statues of stallions in art museums.

''Oh my,'' Rarity gasped.

As a rising star in the fashion designer business, and as a successful business owner, Rarity had developed a eye for detail. What’s more, having created dozens--if not hundreds--of outfits for everyone in Ponyville, she had all but memorized the physical dimensions of her friends. Therefore, she was the first to truly grasp just how much her little Spikey Wikey had changed over the past decade.

Spike had grown through quite a growth spurt since she last saw him. He was now even taller than Applejack, whose height was last measured at 5'10'', without the stetson. By using Twilight as a basis for comparison--since she was still conveniently clinging to him--Rarity estimated Spike to be about 6'2'' (6'4'' if she included the crystal-like spikes on his head). Moving her eyes down, she noticed his two, brawny arms drenched in sweat. Watching the drake’s muscles flex and bulge in effort allowed thoughts of how those sinewy limbs would feel against her skin to creep into her mind.

'Wait, what!'thought Rarity.

Her face now sported a slight, rosy hue, though whether it was from the thoughts she was just having or the embarrassment of realizing who she was thinking about, she didn’t know. She was just grateful that the others were too focused on Spike to notice. She gave her head a brief shake, trying to straighten her thoughts.

*Poof!*

''What in Tartarus is wrong with you, Rarity?! This is Spike you’re talking, a friend you haven't seen in years!''

Suddenly, a small, angelic version of Rarity popped above her right shoulder, whispering in her ear. She was reprimanding her for her carnal desires. She looked just like Rarity, except her coat was pale gold instead of white, a pair of shining white wings with downy feathers were on her back, and a glowing gold halo floated above her head. She was wearing a simple white dress with matching white slippers and light blue belt. She looked very saint-like and motherly, exuding an aura of goodness and virtue.

*Poof!*

''But justlookat those arms! I bet they could reach places you couldn't even imagine~''

Just then, a small, demonic version of Rarity popped above her left shoulder, whispering in her other ear. Unlike her counterpart, she was urging Rarity to fall into the sweet embrace of lust. She also looked like Rarity, but her coat was red, and she had a pair of red batwings were on her back, a red, spaded, demon tail, and a pair of small, red, curved horns were on her head, peaking up from her well-formed coiffure. She was wearing a red, sleeveless, crop top with a plunging V-neck that exposed an abundant amount of cleavage and the lower half of her torso. She also wore a crimson leather, pencil skirt that went halfway down her thighs and had a slit on the side, as well as matching knee-high, leather boots. To complete her look, she held a pitchfork in her right hand as long as she was tall. She was a sexy succubus, the kind that any stalwart stallion would find hard to resist.

Seeing her evil counterpart appear, the angelic Rarity flew towards the front of Rarity’s eyes, trying to hold her attention as she talked some sense into her.

''It’s wrong! Spike is our dearest friend, and it would be wrong to look at him in such a lustful way. And besides, Spike most likely has a marefriend by now, remember? Do you want to risk ruining his relationship just for a brief moment of passion? We can’t do that him, we just can’t!''

Just as angel Rarity finished her heartfelt reproach, the succubus Rarity flew up beside her, much to the angel’s vexation. However, the angel’s look of displeasure only helped to put an impish grin on the demon’s face.

''You know what? You're right. It's not like he had a crush on you for years and most likely masturbated to us or anything,''the lustful succubus sneered, putting her pitchfork between her thighs and energetically pumping her right hand up and down it’s smooth shaft.''Ah! Oh, Rarity. Rarity! I....I’m...I’m gonna...Ahhhhh!!!''she panted, her voice doing a surprisingly accurate imitation of the young dragon. She took derisive pleasure in seeing the matching blushes on both Rarity and her angelic counterpart.''So yeah, I’m sure a harmless little caress would be just too horrendous for a lady, right?''she finished, sending a mischievous smirk at the flustered angel.

''Wowzers, Spike! Just look at these guns! Training with the Crystal Royal Guards must have really beefed you up,'' marveled Pinkie Pie, pressing her D-cup boobs against Spike's shoulder as she felt up his muscles.

Her gushing compliment attracted the attention of the trio of Raritys, who abruptly turned to see the pink pony pressing up against Spike. They watched with a growing sense of envy as close contact with Pinkie’s boobs were causing Spike to slightly blush.

''That...thatBITCH!''the nowformerangel bellowed.

Watching the party pony put the moves on the hunky dragon made the tiny angel literally go red with fury. As well as envy. And especiallylust. She was now an identical copy of her evil counterpart. The two succubi turned to each other and nodded in silent agreement. They both turned to Rarity with matching looks of fiery determination in their eyes, complete with real flames.

''Well?! What the fuck are you waiting for, an open invitation?! Get your flank over there and talk to him!''the former angel shouted.

*Poof!*
*Poof!*

And just like that, the tiny twosome were gone. Rarity, now bearing a similar look of determination in her eyes, slowly stood up and walked away from Sweetie Belle over to Spike. Her younger sister could only stare at her elder sibling’s back in confusion, wondering what had caused such a change in her demeanor.

''Hello, Spike. It's been quite some time, hasn't it,'' Rarity said, trying to hide the rising blush from seeing Spike’s striking figure up close.

''Looking as beautiful as I remember, Rarity,'' Spike replied, bending forward and planting a kiss on the unicorn’s dainty hand.

''Well Spike, I can see you haven't lost your sense of decorum on how to treat a lady,'' Rarity giggled, complimenting Spike's gentlemen expertise.

''Oh, you know how it is. Living in a royal palace for a decade really helps to improve one's etiquette,'' joked Spike with a cocky grin.

''I’m sure your marefriend is a very lucky mare to have a gentledrake such as yourself for a lover,'' Rarity said, slightly blushing as she brought her kissed hand to her chest.

''Yeah. I’m sure she would be, too...if I had one,'' Spike said, his smile slightly faltering as he awkwardly scratched the back of his head.

''Oh, my apologies! How rude of me to assume that you partnered with a pony. Still, your lover must be quite the lucky dragoness,'' Rarity corrected, wondering what kind of dragon would be a good enough match for her dear Spikey Wikey.

''Actually.....I'm still single,'' confessed Spike.

His blushing face and roaming eyes showed just how awkward this conversation was making him. He inwardly begged any deity who was listening for a change in topic.

''Oh! Well...I'm very sorry to hear that.''

Rarity's face fully turned red in embarrassment. On the surface, she held up her hands in front of her mouth in shock at the news. But unbeknownst to Spike, it was to hide the relieved smile on her face. Unfortunately for her, she forgot that they weren’t alone.

''Uh, so Spike, you said that yer still single, right?'' Applejack asked, pushing Rarity aside as she butted into the conversation.

''*Sigh*Yes, Applejack. I'm still single. Now can we please drop the subject?'' Spike pleaded, his face turning a dark shade of red.

''Sure thing, sugercube. Just checkin’ is all.''

Applejack looked at Rarity with a victorious smile. It only took a few moments for Rarity to realize the significance of that smile. Suddenly, any alluring thoughts of Spike were completely dashed as memories of the bet flooded her mind, particularly the parts concerning the consequences of losing. Her blushing face instantly turned pale with horror at what she would have to endure in the near future.

''Aw shit,'' Rarity muttered.

She looked glumly at Spike, whom had finally managed to pry Twilight off of him. She looked back at Applejack, then Spike, then Applejack again before walking over to the smug cowgirl. She hoped she could talk Applejack into letting the silly bet go, but AppleJack would have none of it. The apple farmer picked up a couple of leaves and threw them at her.

''Ya better take an extralooooongbath tonight,'' Applejack said, whispering coyly in Rarity's ear. As the fashionista slumped in regret, Applejack turned her sights the other loser of the bet, Rainbow Dash. Strolling over, Applejack pulled the speedy pegasus to one side, away from everypony (and dragon) else, and whispering something in her ear. Moments later, Rainbow’s wings burst open, and she suddenly turned to face the CMC.

"Alright, alright, fine! I'll watch over you guys," sighed Rainbow Dash in defeat. The three teens squealed in delight, joining together into a group hug. "But!" Rainbow continued. "We're setting up some ground rules, first!" Rainbow continued. The crusaders ceased their group hug and huddled in front of their new caregiver.

"Rule #1: none of you are allowed to leave my sight. As long as I can see you, then you're free to roam wherever. Rule #2: This isn’t a vacation, it’s a mission from the princess. So if we happen to be dealing with something, you can’t bug any of us. And if I tell you to stay put, you stay put."

Rainbow Dash paused to see if the girls were really paying attention, only to be met by three sets of eyes watching her intently, their owners hanging on her every word. Then, she turned her gaze behind the girls towards their sisters. When she noticed a lovestruck Rarity and blushing Applejack staring at Spike, an evil smirk graced her face. She may have lost the bet, but maybe she could have some fun with this. Rainbow Dash leaned in close, lowering her voice so it was just loud enough that only the CMC could hear.

"And Rule #3," she started, pointedly staring at Applebloom and Sweetie Belle, "make sure that your sisters don’t get too distracted."

Confused by her final rule, Applebloom and Sweetie Belle turned around towards their sisters. What awaited them was the sight of their elder siblings acting like school foals near their first crush. Applebloom had never seen her sister blush and act so meek before. She had to repeatedly blink her eyes to make sure she wasn’t seeing things. Sweetie Belle, on the other hand, was all too used to her sister’s usual antics in the pursuit of her perfect “prince.”

''Not again,'' Sweetie groaned softly.

''So, what’s this about Saddle Arabia?'' Spike asked.

''Didn't Shining Armor tell you? This is supposed to be your first assignment as a royal guard," Twilight answered.

Twilight would spend the next 30 minutes lecturing Spike about his upcoming mission. She would not only go over the information the princesses had revealed to her, but also discuss the history of Saddle Arabia's culture that concerned the Festival of Lights.

*****

''*Yawn*Okay, so let me get this straight,'' Spike started, ''I have to escort all of you, sans Twilight, to Saddle Arabi, help you renew the peace treaty, and help out with the Festival of Lights. Did I get that right?''

Spike and the girls were all inside the Friendship Castle, sitting in their respective thrones around the Cutie Map. Spike and the Bearers sat in their respective thrones, while the CMC had to procure chairs of their own from another room. Surprisingly, Spike’s throne--which was slightly smaller than the others’--had grown to match the other thrones in height, probably to accommodate his recent growth. Everyone was looking at Twilight with exhaustion from her long-winded history lesson.

''Yeah, pretty much. Anything else you wanna know?'' Twilight chirped, clapping her hands together proudly. She loved teaching almost as much as studying, and ever since her days as Celestia’s student, the one whom she most often lectured was Spike. She was glad that all his years of training hadn’t diminished his ability to understand and summarize her lessons.

''No, no, I'm good,'' Spike said, holding up his hands in a placating manner. ''Just let me get my stuff cleaned up and we’ll head on out.'' He stood up from his throne and picked up his bag. ''It looks like the castle layout hasn’t changed since I left, so...the laundry room should bethisway.'' Spike headed for the stairs, but he was stopped suddenly by a pink hand grabbing onto his arm.

''That can wait until later, Spike. Right now, it's time to PARTY!!'' Pinkie Pie cheered.

With Spike still in hand, she dashed out of the throne room over to the Town Hall, leaving behind a dust cloud in her wake. The rest of the of the girls raced after them. When they arrived, Spike stood in awe at the decorations for the party. While the usual streamers, balloons, and confetti were spread all over the place, there were also a number of different gemstones scattered as well. The jewels were placed in such a way that the overhead lights gave them a dazzling shine. Spike wasn’t the only one impressed by the display. Rainbow Dash also had her eyes opened wide with amazement. Because she had been delayed by the CMC and the race with Spike, she hadn’t returned in time to see the finished decorations ahead of time.

''Wow!!'' marveled Spike. It was all he could say as he scanned the entire room. It seemed all of Ponyville had come out to celebrate his return. Pinkie Pie pushed the astonished drake onto the stage in front of the mic, signaling him to say a few words.

''Well, umm...it’s been a while since I’ve been home.'' A few whistles and cheers of encouragement rang out from the crowd. Feeling emboldened, Spike continued his speech, stealing a few glances at his friends all the while. ''I’m so glad that after all these years, Ponyville is still the same accepting and kindhearted town I remember as a kid.'' His eyes began to glisten with tears of joy. ''If there is something I’ve learned from my training, it’s that the world can be a cruel mistress. There are so many dangers in this world, from monsters and villains, to shifty ponies who are willing to murder anypony who looks at them the wrong way. Furthermore, the world is full of narrow-minded speciests, harshly treating anyone not of their own race. Even here in Equestria, the land of Harmony, there are still ponies who discriminate against those not in their tribe. That’s why I’m really glad to know that there’s a safe place where everyone can feel accepted and everyone is given a second chance to start anew. I proudly call this place my home, and I’m proud to protect it.''

As Spike finished his speech, a complete silence fell over the hall. A couple seconds later, the entire audience erupted into ear-splitting cheers, tremendous applause and thunderous hoof-stomps. Several ponies had even started to chant Spike’s name. Everypony had been touched by the dragon’s heartfelt words. Despite how isolated their town was compared to the rest of Equestria, the ponies of Ponyville knew all to well the various threats that endangered their society, both external and social. They could only imagine all the pain he must of endured over the past ten years, and they were extremely glad to finally have him back home.

''Now. I think it’s time we start this party!'' Spike declared.

He pointed at the Ponytones, prompting them to start singing while Octavia and Vinyl played the accompanying music. It was a mixture of hard rock and beautiful classical music. Somehow, it worked in harmony, and a good deal of the party goers started to break into dance. The party was in full swing. Spike hopped off the stage and was almost immediately tackled by Twilight once again.

''Spike, I'm so sorry you had to experience seeing all that,'' lamented Twilight, clinging to Spike's neck tighter than ever.

''Twilight, air...air!'' Spike gasped, tapping Twilight's back in surrender. Unfortunately, AppleJack, Pinkie Pie, and even Rainbow Dash suddenly joined in on the hug, smothering him further. ''Why do you guys not want me to have any air?!'' Spike croaked, his face turning a light blue. Just as he was about to pass out, his body was covered in a cobalt aura and teleported away.

The instant he reappeared, Spike bent over as if he would collapse, his hands propping him up on his knees. He took one deep breathe after another, trying to get his breathing back under control. With a grateful smile, he looked up toward his savior.

''Thanks for the save back there, aunt Luna,'' Spike panted, his breathing finally starting to settle down. However, just as Spike finished thanking her, Luna enveloped the drake in a crushing hug of her own.

''It's wonderful to see you again, Spike!!'' beamed Luna,.

Princess Luna hugged with the same amount, if not greater, force as Twilight had done previously.‘Not again,’Spike thought in despair, already feeling the air being crushed out of his lungs once more. Fortunately, Luna was pulled off him by her older sister.

''Okay Luna, I think that's enough,'' Celestia said. She waited patiently for her adopted son to catch his breath before addressing him. ''Spike, if I might speak to you in private?'' Without waiting for his reply, Celestia pulled Spike into an empty hallway before pulling out and handing him a black box.

''What's this?'' Spike asked, his eyes alight with curiosity. Opening the lid revealed a stunning emerald carved into the shape of a flame. The green jewel was attached to a gold chain.

''Just a little gift,'' Celestia replied, looking pleased with herself. ''Read what’s on the back.'' Spike turned the amulet around and read the text engraved on it.

To our favorite fire breather, welcome home.

''I know it's a...'' Celestia stopped when Spike looked at her with an unamused frown. ''What? You don't like it?''

''It's not that I don't like it, it's more like I’m wondering why you are giving it to me?'' Spike said, eyeing Celestia with suspicion.

''Can’t a mother just give her son a welcome home present?'' Celestia defended. However, beads of sweat began to form on her forehead as Spike's glare on her intensified.

''I see. So then, I guess you wouldn't mind if I just...destroyit?!!'' Suddenly, Spike hurled the amulet towards the ground. But before it could hit the floor, Celestia used her magic to stop it mid-air, keeping it from shattering. ''Thought so,'' Spike muttered. ''This kind of thing isn’t aunt Luna’s style, andyouknow full well that I prefer eating gems to wearing them. Plus, you seemed too adamant about giving that to me alone for it to be some normal trinket. So, you wanna tell me what's so important about this amulet?'' inquired Spike, plucking the amulet from the golden aura.

''Alright, alright...you’re right. It’s not just an amulet,'' Celestia confessed, realizing she couldn’t hide the truth. ''There’s a secret video camera hidden inside.''

''Andwhyis there a secret video camera inside?'' Spike prodded. Despite his suspicions, he was intrigued by the innocent looking amulet. Pushing the top of it with his thumb revealed the camera’s hiding spot.

''Well...it’s because of a bet I made with Twilight,'' Celestia admitted.

''What kind of bet?'' asked Spike in astonishment. Rainbow Dash or Applejack, he could understand. But of all ponies to make a wager, and with Princess Celestia no less.Twilight?Maybe he wasn’t the only one to have changed over the past decade.

[10 minutes later...]

''I see. And to prove that I could get a lover before her, you needed proof. And that's what this is for, so you can monitor me while I'm in Saddle Arabia.''

''Yeah, pretty much,'' Celestia glumly said, looking deflated from having to reveal her plan to Spike.

''Wow. You really need to stop taking these kinds of bets,'' Spike deadpanned, handing back the amulet to Celestia and starting his return to the party.

''Spike, please! I'm gonna lose my royal authority if you don't!'' Celestia begged.

''Good. Maybe that will wake you up and teach you not to bet on others’ lives." Spike didn’t turn around, nor slow his pace as he continued to walk away. He was only a few feet away from the party.

''*Sigh*I really didn't think it would have come to this, Spike, but you leave me no choice,'' growled Celestia.

Spike could practicallyfeelthe steely edge in her voice, making him stop dead in his tracks. Turning back around, he witnessed a sight that made him break out in a cold sweat. Princess Celestia, his mother, the pony who couldmove the freaking sunwith but a thought, was staring at the baffled drake with a gaze that was equal parts disgust and cold fury.

''What are you talking about?" he asked cautiously.

''I don't know, youSilver-tongued Viper. What do you think I'm talking about?''

''H-H-H-How do you know that name?'' Spike stammered, his purple scales turning as pale as a ghost in horror.

''I have many spies all over Equestria, Spike, and a few monitoring our allies as well. Allies like, oh, I don’t know, the Crystal Empire? And, well, you know how word gets around.'' Celestia slowly approached her quivering son, looking very much like a predator closing in on her prey. She held up the amulet in front of Spike. ''But.I'm willing to keep it our little secret. That is, If you get a marefriend by the end of this trip. Your choice.'' Celestia placed the amulet back in Spike’s claw, then made her way towards the party, leaving Spike alone to contemplate her ultimatum.

''Out of all the ponies to find about that name, it just had to be her,'' Spike lamented, putting the amulet on.

With that bit of drama over and done with, Spike finally returned to the party. Much to his surprise, however, the party was already over. Most of the crowd had already dispersed, leaving only a few mares and stallions behind to clean up the mess. It seems his private talk with his mother had lasted longer than he thought.

''Hey, Spike! Did you enjoy your welcome back party?! Huh?! Did ya?! Did ya?!" jabbered Pinkie Pie, skipping up to Spike.

''Actually...Celestia kinda held me up the whole time," Spike confessed.

"Well, it's a good thing I saved these for you."

Pinkie Pie pulled a batch of scrumptious looking cupcakes from behind her back. Each of the delicious pastries was filled with a different kind of gemstone.

"Wow! Thanks, Pinkie Pie!" Spike grabbed a sapphire cupcake from the tray and took a huge bite out of it."Sooo good~!!!" burst Spike, gobbling up the rest of the cupcakes from the tray.

"Wowzers, Spike! You're like Celestia with cake," Pinkie giggled as Spike licked his fingers clean.

"Well, can you blame me? I love your cooking," Spike said, smiling at a blushing Pinkie Pie.

"Huh? How did you know I made it?" Pinkie asked, dropping the tray in embarrassment. Luckily, all those years of training had sharpened Spike’s senses and reaction time.

"Whoa there!" Spike caught the empty tray with his tail, placing it back in the pink pony’s hand with ease. "Come on, Pinkie Pie. I'd recognize your cooking anywhere. Anyways, thanks again for the cupcakes, Pinkie. They rocked." Spike left the blushing party pony to her own devices.

''Dang it. How in the world am I suppose to get a marefriend in four weeks?'' Spike mumbled to himself.

So lost in his own thoughts, the young drake didn’t watch where he was going. As a result, it came to no surprise that he ended up literally bumping into an old friend, Big Macintosh.

''Hey Spike, great to have ya back!'' Big Mac greeted while his close friend rubbed his draconish snout in pain.

''Hey Big Mac, same to you,'' Spike replied. A quick glance told the drake that his friend wasn’t alone. Standing beside the apple stallion stood a cerise unicorn mare with a magenta mane wearing a long pink dress. She was holding onto Big Mac's shoulder, pressing her breasts into his muscular arm. ''And who might this beautiful mare be?'' Spike asked, giving the mare a gentlemanly bow.

''Sugar Belle,'' the mare answered, ''and you must be Spike, I presume. Macintosh told me all about you.''

''All good things, I hope,'' Spike chuckled. Lifting his head up, he looked at Big Mac meaningfully. He hoped the red stallion hadn’t been telling any embarrassing secrets.

''Oh, yes. Like how you had a doll of Rarity that you slept with when you were a kid. It just sounded so cute!'' Sugar Belle chirped, squeezing Big Mac's shoulder.

''Oh, is that so?'' fumed Spike, staring daggers at Big Mac.''Well did he tell you about...?'' Spike whispering something in Sugar Belle's ear. Her eyes widened in shock and a few gasps escaped her lips, followed by soft exclamations of”No”,”Really?”, and”Oh my.”Big Mac just stood there silently, looking on in confusion at his marefriend’s shocked expression. After a few moments, Spike straightened up, pat Big Mac on the back and said with an impish grin, ''Have fun,Orchard Blossom.''. With his revenge complete, Spike moved on, snickering to himself as he left the blushing couple behind to themselves.

Not long after, Spike came upon Twilight and Celestia a couple of blocks from Town Hall. Twilight was lying on the ground, fast asleep, while Celestia was bent over her supine form. Spike narrowed his eyes in suspicion when he noticed the mischievous smile on his mother’s face.

''Alright, what are you up tonow?'' questioned Spike. Moving closer, he discovered that Celestia had written LOSER on Twilight’s forehead with a black marker. ''Really? What are you, five?'' Spike deadpanned.

''Spike please, age is nothing to an immortal Goddess,'' Celestia rebuked.

''Sure, whatever,'' Spike sighed. ''But I’m gonna need Twilight to get into the castle, so....'' Spike picked Twilight up and placed her on his back.

''We’re leaving. Later, mom.''

Spike gracefully took to the skies, flapping his large wings slowly and steadily so as to not bother the slumbering alicorn on his back. Before the two flew out of sight, Celestia noticed the amulet hanging around Spike’s neck.

''Good choice, my son.''

[20 minutes later]

''Finally, back home.'' Spike said, standing before the front doors of the castle. ''Hey, Twilight, we're home. Open the door, would ya?'' Spike said, tapping Twilight's back with his tail.

''Of course, Star Swirl the Bearded. I would love to become your protégé,'' Twilight mumbled.

''*Sigh*Man, Rainbow Dash was right. Youarean egghead.''

Spike looked around and noticed one of the castle’s windows was wide open. Flapping his wings, he flew up to and through the window, landing gently on the other side. The ease of entry made Spike feel a mix of emotions. On the one hand, he was glad that he didn’t have to wake Twilight to get inside. On the other hand, he was a bit worried that she was so careless as to leave a window open, allowing just anyone determined enough to enter as they wish.

''Twilight really has no sense of-''

*BRRRR!* *BRRRR!* *INTRUDER ALERT!* *INTRUDER ALERT!* *BRRRR!* *BRRRR!*

Spike could barely hear himself scream over the blaring alarms. It seemed Twilight wasn’t as careless as he had first thought. He placed his claws over his ear frills, trying to suppress the noise. Looking down, however, he noticed that the alarms were the least of his problems. A multitude of red dots covered his body. Spike recognized them as targeting sights, and he had a rising suspicion he didn’t want to find out what was targeting him.

*SECURITY PROTOCOLS, ACTIVATED! YOU HAVE TEN SECONDS TO SAY THE PASSWORD BEFORE GETTING VAPORIZED! TEN....NINE....*

''FUCK! TWILIGHT, WAKE UP!'' Spike bellowed.

*EIGHT....SEVEN....*

''MY GOSH, WERE GONNA DIE!!!!''

Spike covered his head as he quivered in fear. He closed his eyes shut, praying that the end would at least be swift and painless.

''Star Swirl the Bearded!''

*PASSWORD ACCEPTED! SECURITY PROTOCOLS, DEACTIVATED!*

Spike slowly opened his eyes once he realized he wasn’t about to meet his maker. Just to be sure, he glanced down and sighed with relief when he noticed the targeting sights were gone. He looked up at his savior. Twilight, thanks to the tripped alarms, was now wide awake.

''Jeez, Spike, I told you the password earlier when you asked me.''

“When was that?!'' asked Spike exasperated.

''At the front door, remember?''

Spike briefly recalled Twilight’s mumbling at the castle doors.''Of course, Star Swirl the Bearded. I would love to become your protégé.''

''How in the world was I suppose to know that was what you meant, you maniac?!'' roared Spike, flabbergasted at how Twilight expected him to know that.

''Yes, yes, Spike. Now, let's just go to bed. You’ve got a big day ahead of you, after all.'' Twilight yawned, heading to her bedroom.

''Wha...uh, okay. Wait. Where am I'm supposed to sleep?'' Spike questioned, following Twilight.

''Uh, duh. In your bed, silly,'' Twilight answered.

Twilight opened the door to her bedroom, revealing her comfy looking princess-sized bed surrounded by columns of books. At the foot of the bed lay a familiar, tiny brown basket. Twilight looked at the small basket, then back to Spike. She stared back and forth between the two, mentally calculating the now older dragon’s rise in growth and comparing it to his old basket’s miniscule size.

''Okay, new plan. Tonight, you sleep in my bed with me. Then, once you get back from Saddle Arabia, I'll have a room set up, just for you.'' Twilight said, heading towards the bed while pulling Spike along behind her. With a flash of her horn, she teleported Spike onto the bed. ''Now, I know what you must be thinking, but this definitely isn't weird...in fact, I can present to you an essay on why it's not weird if you want,'' she uttered nervously, pacing back and forth in front of the bed.

When she didn’t receive a response, Twilight grew more anxious. She feared that her dear friend, now a fully grown adult, might take things the wrong way. However, a quick glimpse of the drake proved her worries were groundless. Due to the long flight from the Crystal Empire, as well as the subsequent race and party, Spike had passed out almost instantly after landing on the comfortable mattress. Twilight released a heavy sigh, releasing all the anxiety she had worked up in a single breath. With Spike asleep, this left the lavender alicorn to distract herself from the totally awkward situation that had developed.

''Come on, Twilight. It’s Spike. You've known him since he was a baby. Hay, you’re the one who hatched him. This shouldn't be weird.''

Twilight stood next to the bed, staring down at the dragon occupying. This was the first time she got a chance to really look at her friend since his return. She took particular interest in his face. The years of training had stripped the drake of all his baby fat, giving his face a lean, narrower form, more fitting of his draconic heritage.

*Ba-bump*

Twilight's heart started beating faster. She had to admit, Spike looked rather handsome. She slowly closed the distance between the them, leaning closer and closer to his face.

*Sniff, sniff*

Twilight's nose twitched, catching a whiff of Spike’s scent. Without warning, she pushed the slumbering drake off the bed and into a pile of books. Spike startled awake, an open book covering his face.

''What happened? Who did that?'' Putting the book aside, Spike came face-to-face with an angry Twilight. ''Uh, Twilight, you okay?''

''STRIP!!!'' Twilight commanded.

''Wha..what?!'' Spike instinctively covered his body with his arms, looking apprehensively at Twilight. The alicorn steadily moved closer, her stern visage accepting no argument. ''Twilight, lets be reasonable here.''

''I am,'' Twilight clipped. Twilight suddenly lunged, pouncing on top of the frightened drake. She proceeded to force his clothes off, leaving him in just his scales. She teleported the clothes into the hallway, then conjured a towel and threw it into his bewildered face. ''Shower. Now,'' she growled, pointing a finger towards her private bathroom before stomping off to put the clothes in the wash.

[5 minutes later...]

*Sniff, sniff*

''Aww, much better. Seriously Spike, was hygiene not heard of in the Crystal Guards.'' asked Twilight, sending a perplexed look towards a half-dressed Spike.

''Sorry, Twilight. Guess racing Rainbow Dash while carrying the CMC made me work up a sweat.'' Spike apologized.

''Um, Spike, aren't you going to *cough* put on a shirt?''

Twilight couldn’t help but stare at Spike's toned body. It had a hypnotizing effect on her, making her forget the world around her. The spell was only broken when his muscular form was covered by a white fabric.

''Sorry about that, Twilight. I usually sleep without a shirt on.''

''Yes, well, I have everything of yours packed for tomorrow except for the clothes you had on today.'' Twilight said, regaining her train of thought.

''Hey, no problem. Besides, I’ll most likely have to wear my uniform when we get there, anyway,'' Spike replied, thanking Twilight with a grateful smile. Twilight thought that if he smiled that way for much longer, she would be putty in his hands.

''Um, yes. Well, it’s late. So, um, now that you’re clean, let's go to bed,'' Twilight said, making a swift retreat towards the bedroom.

''Fine by me,'' Spike said, following her.

When they were back under the covers, it didn't take Twilight as long to pass out over how exhausting her emotions had been in the last couple of hours.