Author's Note

Sorry for the delay on this one, you guys. I had a lot on my plate, and it sapped my creativity. BUT, I'm determined to see this through, so here it is. Episode 4 of Celestial Guard!

Rarity Belle: The Generous Escort of Canterlot City

“Lady Applejack, can I get you anything?” one enthusiastic maid asked with starry eyes. The Stetson wearing young woman waved her hands awkwardly.

“I’m, good thanks. Same as it was… the last ten times ya asked that…” Applejack said with an awkward but friendly smile.

“Lady Rarity, we are having a feast in your honor. Please tell us your favorite dish so we can have the chef’s prepare it,” a gentleman in a nice tux said.

“Oh, you don’t have to go to such trouble for little old me,” Rarity said kindly, “But, hm, perhaps tell the chef that I’m fond of strawberry cheese cake, if they must make something.”

“Miss Applejack, we’ve made you a lovely dress!” the tailor said gleefully, two of her attendants holding up a very extravagant red and gold dress, “Won’t you please try this on?”

“Um, that’s, mighty nice of ya, but um, not exactly my style… as y’all can see…” Applejack said, her standard attire still being more simple farm girl.

“Maiden of Generosity, would you please be my plus two for the Gala tonight? I promise to treat you like the fair lady you are.” a smartly dressed nobleman requested, elegantly taking Rarity’s hand.

“Mercy, you certainly are charming,” Rarity blushed, fanning herself, “Alas, it isn’t safe for me to move around without my Knight, so I must sadly decline your offer.”

It had been like this all day, and it remained that way much longer into the later hours. Ever since word spread that they were the Maidens of Harmony, everyone in the castle, whether working there or just visiting, seemed intent on doting on them, trying to get to know them, and offering them lavish gifts.

Applejack enjoyed the attention, but it was still super overwhelming. Even after the Nightmares began hunting her actively, she still worked on the farm every so often. She was just used to that. Working was comforting to her. Now, every time she tried to do anything to lighten the load, she was immediately shooed away, with them insisting that they had it covered.

Rarity on the other hand seemed to fall into the role of noblewoman pretty well. After rescuing her, Cadence helped her find some clothes, since her previous attire wasn’t exactly daytime wear, nor appropriate for walking around a castle. Currently, she wore a very beautiful purple and white dress that hugged her upper body with a built in bustier that pushed up her breasts enticingly, wide sleeves and a skirt that was the length of a mini skirt in the front and flowed down to her ankles in the back, white gloves, fishnet stockings, and purple high heels. She was even able to fix her makeup, now wearing indigo eye shadow and red lipstick, and golden hoop earrings. Truly she was the epitome of classy, yet sexy.

The issue she seemed to have was that everyone wanted to give her things, and she kept having to decline. Despite how she dressed and being rather wealthy, Rarity wasn’t materialistic in the slightest. It wasn’t that she didn’t appreciate the nice things, but it was starting to get to be a little much.

And yet, the one thing she actually wanted/needed right now, she couldn’t seem to convince anyone to get for her to save her life. And not from lack of trying.

Eventually the two Maidens, who’d since become fast friends, managed to escape, running away into a hallway together to dodge yet another group of attendants. The two of them turned a corner, and laughed in relief holding each other.

“Thank you for getting me out of there, Applejack!” Rarity said through her laughter.

“No problem. I was already escapin’ someone else,” Applejack said, swiping tears from how hard she was laughing, “I appreciate them bein’ nice, but all this, it’s…”

“Overwhelming, right?” Rarity asked as the two young women walked together, “Neither of us has ever had literally everyone around us treating us like, well, the Maidens of Harmony.”

Applejack shook her head, “Honestly, all this attention’s makin’ me a bit homesick. I liked my simple life on the farm, ya know?”

“I do,” Rarity nodded, “I’m a bit more used to this sort of thing, but still, I wasn’t treated like the savior of the world or anything.”

“I could sorta tell you were still in your element, here,” Applejack noted, “Ya didn’t seem awkward like me.”

“Oh trust me, it’s all just a mask I’m wearing,” Rarity assured, “Truth is, I’m not handling this nearly as well as I seem.”

“Is there anythin’ I can do to help?” Applejack asked, stopping in front of Rarity’s room and taking her hands, “Cause, ya do seem a bit tense, now that I’m really lookin’ at ya.”

“Oh Applejack, I’ll be fine,” Rarity said waving her off, “Not that don’t appreciate it, but I’m afraid this issue isn’t something I feel you could help me with.”

“If you’re sure…” Applejack said, visibly uncertain.

“Yes, I am,” Rarity smiled, kissing Applejack on the cheek, “I’m going to rest a bit before dinner.”

“Alright. I’m gonna track down my brother. With this place still bein’ new, bein’ far away from him is, well…” Applejack looked away in shame, rubbing her arm.

Rarity sighed and hugged Applejack, “Applejack darling, you can’t blame yourself for your fears. Those monsters are terrifying. We’re all probably going to have nightmares of our own when we sleep for a while.”

“Even you?” Applejack asked.

“Especially me,” Rarity admitted, “Because I didn’t have a wonderfully attentive brother as my guardian. You’re blessed to have him,” she gave Applejack an assured smile, “So go find your knight. I’ll be alright.”

“If ya say so,” Applejack said hesitantly. Rarity rolled her eyes laughing, turned Applejack around and pushed her lightly forward.

“Yes, I do!” she laughed, “Please, don’t worry about me.”

“Alright, alright, I’m goin’,” Applejack said laughing herself. She then gave Rarity a kind wave, “See ya at Cadence’s dinin’ hall.”

“See you there,” Rarity smiled, waving to her friend as she walked off. Once she was sure she was alone, Rarity dropped her hand and sighed in relief, “Finally. I love Applejack to pieces, but she does worry too much.”

She turned back to her room and entered, shutting and locking the door behind her. Her room was very nice. Full Queen sized bed all to herself with fancy curtains, a bookshelf with plenty of books, and a lovely vanity set. Her room looked like the sort a Princess would have. Made Rarity wonder what Cadence’s room was like.

Rarity walked over to her bed, fell onto it burying her face in her pillow, and for a second just laid there. She then gripped the pillow tightly and groaned in frustration. Living in the castle was nice and all, but for all the things the attendants offered for her, the one thing she actually wanted, she couldn’t get from anyone.

Yes, she was the Maiden of Generosity, but before that, she was a woman. A woman with needs. Needs that at the moment, weren’t getting met, and to make matters worse, she didn’t see a safe way for her to go back to work to fix this issue.

It was funny, how a woman like her managed to get a thief for a bodyguard. But not just any thief. The legendary thief Spike Dragneel. He was actually quite the sweetheart once you got to know him, acting like the perfect gentleman around her. She still remembered how Spike called her the most beautiful woman he’d ever seen. She gave him purpose.

But now that she was safe, and she could evaluate her situation, she had to wonder. Would knowing what she did for a living before this mess change that? How would he react to knowing that the woman everyone called things like “Lady Rarity, Miss Rarity, or Maiden of Generosity”, and the woman who asked him to be her knight…

Was also the most highly paid escort in the city of Canterlot?

Honestly, she was shocked that he didn’t know about her. Or maybe he’d heard her name, but just didn’t put two and two together. There was also the possibility that he’d just never been to Canterlot. Not likely, as that place was where most of the wealthy made their home. Either way, if he did know, he never said anything or tried to take advantage. No one here did, and that was the issue. She didn’t just do that work because she liked giving to others in that way. She did it because she enjoyed it. She liked sex, a lot. She’d freely admit that she was a bit addicted to it, something she knew was attributed to her virtue, for some reason. When this whole ordeal began, she thought she was getting hired for a fun night. Instead, she fell right into a trap.

Now here she was, staying in an ornate castle, surrounded by people who worshiped the ground she walked on, and yet none of them knew what she truly needed right now to be mentally stable, and she didn’t know how to tell any of them. Even if she did, no way anyone would actually go that far with her. After all, she was the lovely and “untouchable Maiden”.

“I need to do something about this,” Rarity decided, “Otherwise, I’m going to burst.”

Azure Sandora presents

Power Rangers: Celestial Guard

Disclaimer: My Little Pony and Power Rangers belong to Hasbro

Please support the official releases.

Theme Song: Dark Creatures

Verse 4: Rarity Belle: The Generous Escort of Canterlot City

Chrysalis’ screams of agony echoed throughout Sombra’s castle, and could even be heard elsewhere in the Underworld. Currently she stood before her King’s throne with her wrists chained above her, as said king shot her with his dark electricity.

“Your Majesty! I’m sorry!” Chrysalis screamed.

“Sorry isn’t good enough,” Sombra said, voice oozing with deep seated anger, “I gave you three Nightmares, and you ended up losing two Maidens.”

“But, it wasn’t my fault!” Chrysalis sobbed, “The Crystal Knights! They have a new power from the Goddess of the Sun!”

“These, Power Rangers?” Sombra asked, lowering his hand to give Chrysalis a reprieve.

“Yes…!” Chrysalis managed in between sobs, “They, summoned these weird titans, when I used the Lunar Seal to empower the Canis Brothers! I felt the Maidens from these titans!”

“The Goddess granted the Crystal Knights so much power…?” Sombra asked thoughtfully before rising to his feet, “I must consult with my beloved on this,” he said, walking off into a secluded section of the Castle.

Chrysalis pulled at her shackles a bit before letting her head hang in defeat, “I hate it when he does this…” she said weakly.

Sombra went to the shrine he erected for the Goddess of the Moon. It was a fancy room like a church sanctuary, but without the pews and a sinister edge to it. At the front was an altar, which had black candles burning with purple flames and the Lunar Seal in the middle.

“My beloved,” Sombra said, getting on one knee, “I must consult with you on an issue concerning the Crystal Knights.”

Sombra, dearly beloved, there is no need to elaborate. I saw everything from my lunar prison.

The witch, speaks the truth.

“Does she now?” Sombra asked looking back in the direction of where Chrysalis hung.

Many eons ago, a sage named Zordon came to my sister and I. He granted us a field of magic he called The Morphing Grid. I believe my sister is using that to create this Celestial Guard.

“So Chrysalis wasn’t just making excuses,” Sombra growled to himself, “My Starry Sky, what shall we do about this, then?”

My sister and I both possess half of the Morphing Grid’s essence. Give me time, and I will be able to grant you limited access to it. For now, though, we MUST focus on the Maidens.

“I will send Chrysalis back to the surface world then,” Sombra decided, “Apparently the Maidens are present when they summon the titans, which does give us a chance to recapture them, if we can defeat the Rangers.”

Please hurry, my King of Shadows. I am lonely without you.

“Soon, my love,” he held his hand up to the ceiling, “We will be together soon,” as Nightmare Moon’s presence faded, Sombra rose to his feet and folded his arms, “Power Rangers, hm? Maybe I will take you a bit more seriously.”

“Here you go, ladies,” Sunburst said, handing both Applejack and Rarity Solar Phones. Unlike the Rangers’, these Solar Phones were more platinum colored. Rather than asking the Maidens to walk all the way to the Crystal Shrine, Sunburst asked them to meet him in the Royal Library to give them these.

“Ain’t these the things mah brother an’ everyone else use to Morph?” Applejack asked, looking the phones over.

“Similar, yes,” Sunburst said, “However, while they are connected to the Morphing Grid, it’s mainly to allow you to communicate with your chosen Rangers.”

“We can’t risk the two of you running into a situation where we can’t reach you,” Shining said, he, Macintosh, and Cadence also in the library, “This way, even if we’re far away from you for whatever reason, you can call one of us for help.”

“It was actually Sunburst’s idea,” Cadence smiled, “When he learned Spike used his Solar Phone to call Macintosh, he thought it’d be a good idea to give you something similar.”

“Oh, thank you so much, darling!” Rarity said, kissing Sunburst on the cheek, “I feel safer already!”

“O-oh, um, y-y-you’re welcome, Miss Rarity,” Sunburst stammered, a blush tinting his face red.

“So, with this,” Applejack walked over to her big brother and smirked, “I’ll be able to talk to ya at all points of the day.”

“Um, yeah. Seems like it,” Macintosh smiled awkwardly, noticeably trying to not look down at his sister, which considering the angle she was at…

“Macintosh, anythin’ ya wanna share?” Applejack asked, leaning forward a bit as her smirk widened, “Ya look a tad nervous.”

Rarity bit her lip trying not to laugh. Applejack had shared with Rarity her feelings toward her brother, which she wasn’t going to judge her for. Not when her brother was her guardian, and quite the fetching young man.

“Me? Nervous? Nah, I’m fine,” Macintosh covered, “Jus’, feelin’ like I need some fresh air, ya know?”

“Perfect!” Applejack hugged Macintosh’s arm, “Then let’s go see the city!”

“Gah! A-Applejack!” Macintosh cried as his little sister dragged him away, making everyone laugh at his plight.

“They’re cute together.” Cadence said.

“I still don’t understand commoners.” Shining shook his head, still smiling.

“I don’t know if it’s a commoner thing so much as just how they are,” Cadence said, wrapping her arms around Shining Armor from behind, “A feeling I can relate concerning my Knight~”

“Um, Y-Your Majesty…” Shining stammered.

“I’m going to take my Knight and do some training in the barracks,” Cadence said, “Will you two be alright?”

“Yes, Cadence,” Sunburst nodded with a chuckle, “You go and have fun with Shining Armor.”

“Tootles~” Rarity waved. Shining looked at both of them desperately as Cadence dragged him off. Honestly, why he didn’t just go for it, Rarity didn’t know. Cadence made her feelings quite obvious.

Rarity’s eyes then turned to Sunburst, who had now sat down at his desk and opened a book. Really, he wasn’t her type. But then again, with her business, she didn’t really have a type so much as a preferred type of client.

But that didn’t mean he couldn’t help at all.

“So, Sunburst,” Rarity asked, “Is there anyone here you’re interested in?”

“Hm?” Sunburst asked looking up from his book, “Oh, you mean…” Rarity nodded, smiling, “Being quite honest, not really. Only person I’ve ever been remotely attracted to is the Princess, and well…”

“Mmm, must be rough,” Rarity said, walking up behind Sunburst and rubbing his shoulders, “And though Octavia is quite attractive, she’s interested only in women, if I recall.”

“Y-yeah, that’s a, thing too.” Sunburst said, eyes widening from Rarity’s impromptu massage.

“And now, you have Applejack and myself around you,” Rarity continued, “It’s no wonder you’re so tense.”

“W-well to be fair, there’s a lot going on that’s got me really tense.” Sunburst stammered.

“Oh I’m sure,” Rarity agreed, now leaning forward a bit, wrapping her arms around him from behind, “If only there was a way to unwind a bit.”

Sunburst swallowed nervously, “Unwind, you say?”

“Yes,” she purred, “A way for you to, shall we say, vent some pent up frustration,” she moved close to his ear, “I bet I know of a way we could both unwind.”

His eyes widened more, and it looked like his glasses were fogging up a bit.

“We don’t even need to go into another room for it,” Rarity whispered, “We could do it, right here, in the library, if you want~”

“Gah! Y-y-y-you know what?” Sunburst shot to his feet, surprising the purple haired Maiden, “I just remembered I needed to ask the Goddess something! So sorry, Miss Rarity, I’ll talk to you later!”

“Wait! Hang on!” Rarity cried, holding out her hand as Sunburst ran out of the library. She then growled in frustration and threw her arms down, stomping her foot, “Ugh!!!” she sat down in the chair Sunburst left and rested her head on the desk, “That’s the tenth one I’ve scared off…” she lifted her head pouting, “At this rate, I may need to just get some new routes.”

“New routes for what?”

Rarity yelped in surprise and turned to the door, where she saw Spike leaning against the doorway, arms folded with his usual smirk. A smirk that did such odd things to her heart.

“Oh, Spike! You startled me,” Rarity said sitting up straight, “Have you been there long?” Please say no, please say no, please say-

“Nope,” Spike confirmed, “Just got here. Octavia was giving me a tour of the castle.”

“I’m surprised you didn’t get one earlier,” Rarity said, “You’ve been here for what, three days now?”

Spike rubbed the back of his head embarrassed, “Well, my first day I spent most of it in the dungeon till the Nightmares attacked, and the second day, we sort of wasted no time searching for you, so I was pretty busy.”

“I see.” Rarity nodded, her heart racing a bit at that revelation. She didn’t realize they’d gone searching for her so quickly.

“How are you, though?” Spike asked, now walking into the library and sitting down across from Rarity, “You seem kind of uptight.”

“Oh, I’m fine, darling,” she waved it off, “Just still a bit overwhelmed, living in a castle now, you know?”

“Okay, so it’s not just me then,” Spike sighed in relief, turning to his side, resting his head on his arm and resting a leg on his knee, “I mean, not that I’m complaining. Can’t think of anyone who would complain about our new living conditions.”

‘Oh, I could think of a few,’ Rarity thought to herself.

“But it’s still awkward, I imagine,” Rarity leaned forward a bit, resting her arms on the desk and crossing them under her bosom, “Considering your profession.”

“Yeah, you get it,” Spike said, eyes briefly going down to her chest before settling on her eyes, “Not much can be done about it now, though. Now that I’m a Power Ranger, I just gotta get used to this environment.”

“Guess we both do.” Rarity sighed looking down.

“You don’t like it?” Spike turned back to her completely, “No offense, but you seemed like the sort who’d be all over this life.”

“Yes, you’d think, and I was born into money, but still...”

Spike nodded thoughtfully, and then slammed his fist into his palm smiling, “Alright. I know exactly what we’re doing, then.”

“Y-you do?” Rarity asked, heart leaping out of her chest.

“I’m taking you into town,” Spike got up, and stood over Rarity holding out his hand, “Do you trust me?”

Rarity blushed a bit, but then smiled, “With my life.” she replied, taking his hand gently and sitting up. She needed to keep up the illusion around Spike, but maybe this could work out for her. He didn’t have to know what her other reason for walking through the town was.

If she knew the layout, she could easily figure out the best places to pick up clients.

In an alleyway in the city, Chrysalis emerged from her standard portal, where she immediately got to work summoning the warrior she picked for this mission. As the Lunar Seal shined, said warrior emerged, being a thinner looking green and yellow monster with big eyes, looking very much like a humanoid lizard with thin body armor.

“You sure you want me for this, Chrysie?” the Nightmare asked, only to be pushed into a wall by Chrysalis’ foot.

“First rule,” she leaned in close, extending her nails and pointing them to the Nightmare’s neck, “Never call me Chrysie.”

The Nightmare nodded quickly and nervously, “Y-you got it, Chrysalis ma’am!”

Chrysalis scowled and lowered her leg, retracting her nails, “Secondly, yes. See, I have a plan to capture the Maiden of Generosity. One that’s going to require your particular set of skills to pull off.”

“Well, if that’s the case, then I trust ya, Miss Chrysalis, ma’am.” the lizard looking Nightmare bowed.

“Good,” Chrysalis leaned in to tell the lizard her plan, which prompted the lizard to cover his mouth in shock.

“Wait, you think that’ll work?” he asked the green haired witch.

“Oh it will. I’m sure of it,” Chrysalis confirmed, “I’m counting on you, Chamaeleon.”

Rarity wasn’t sure what to expect from the Crystal Empire, but she was pleasantly surprised by how diverse it was here. It was a bright and colorful place with many large buildings, and there were people from all different walks of life all around, some running shops, some socializing, she even saw a school nearby, which made her think of the family she left behind.

She dearly missed her little sister. She’d have to send for her, to make sure she was okay.

What surprised Rarity however, was how comfortable Spike was walking out in the open, and how comfortable the people were around him. Everywhere they walked together, someone would greet Spike awfully pleasantly, which considering his profession, she’d have thought he’d be scorned by the populace more.

Then again, they were in the middle class area, and if the rumors were right, Spike’s code meant these people were never his targets.

“So, what do you think?” Spike asked, once they reached a large and beautiful park, “Pretty great place, right?”

“It’s a lot like Canterlot, just more friendly all around,” Rarity noted, “I’m amazed you’re so comfortable here.”

“What do ya mean?” Spike asked as they reached an ornate fountain in the middle of the park.

“Well, don’t take this the wrong way but… you are a notorious thief,” Rarity pointed out.

“Proud of it, too.” Spike said, jumping on the side of the fountain and walking along it with his arms spread out.

“And yet, no one here seems bothered by you,” Rarity continued, walking beside him, “How did you manage that?”

“Well, it wasn’t always like that,” Spike answered, “When I was a kid, the townsfolk treated me more like I was a nuisance. These days though, I’m kind of considered a natural part of this place. Helps that I only steal from the rich.”

“Yes, I’ve heard,” Rarity said, eyes widening briefly as Spike did a handstand on the edge of the fountain and began moving forward with his hands, “You steal from the rich and give to the less fortunate, correct?”

“Well, I do keep some of it for myself,” Spike said, “Those rich snobs have too much money anyway, and I bet most of them didn’t even earn it as much as they inherited it. Um, no offense if you, uh…”

Rarity giggled, “It’s fine, Spike. Yes, I was well off back in Canterlot, but I worked very hard for my fortune.”

“Somehow, I could tell,” Spike stopped, and balanced himself on one hand, “You’re way too nice to take advantage of others.”

“Um, isn’t that a bit dangerous, Spike?” Rarity asked, carefully.

“What, this? Nah. I do stuff like this all the time,” Spike actually bent his arm going lower, and then straightened it, doing this a few times as if doing push-ups.

“Oh. Well even still, do be careful,” Rarity said sitting down beside him, “Accidents can happen.”

“For me, accidents typically just lead me to better opportunities,” Spike dropped down to his feet and sat down beside Rarity, “My luck’s great, but it’s also weird.”

“Weird? How so?” Rarity asked.

“Like, how the whole Ranger thing happened,” he pulled his Solar Phone out of his pocket, “Got caught by the royal guard, and thrown in the dungeon. After I broke out, cause I’m me-”

“Naturally,” Rarity agreed with a wry smirk.

“I found myself in the middle of a Nightmare raid,” Spike continued, not missing a beat, “That’s how I met Big Mac, Cadence, Octavia, and Shining,” he rolled his eyes at the mention of Shining Armor, “One thing led to another, and then the Goddess is asking me if I want to help save Applejack as a Power Ranger.”

“And you said yes?” Rarity asked amazed.

“Flipped a coin. Heads I say yes, tails I walk,” Spike pulled out his lucky coin and flipped it, catching it perfectly, “Since I ended up meeting an angel because of it, I’d say it balanced itself out.”

“An angel? Hardly,” Rarity said placing a hand on her chest, visibly touched, “Though you’re sweet to think so, I’m just a regular woman outside of being the Maiden of Generosity.”

“That’s what I like about you the most,” Spike leaned back and looked up at the sky, “You’re not some haughty rich bitch, or thinking you’re high and mighty because you’re a Maiden of Harmony.”

“I don’t even advertise that part of my life,” Rarity said, looking at her hip now and rubbing it, “Only a select few people have even seen the birthmark.”

“Considering where it is, I’m not surprised,” Spike said, “I saw it when I rescued you, but that’s because you were um…”

“Y-yes,” Rarity cleared her throat lightly, “Not exactly the most, elegant way I could have been seen.”

“I mean, you looked great,” Spike caught himself, “Um! I mean, not to say I was ogling you or anything!”

“So you weren’t staring at my bosom?” Rarity asked with a teasing smirk, “Not sure how I feel about that, honestly.”

“I mean, yeah okay, I did look,” Spike muttered rubbing the back of his neck, “But come on, they’re right there, even now,” Rarity laughed mirthfully, surprising the thief, “Wait, you aren’t offended by that?”

“Offended? Darling, I’m flattered,” Rarity laughed, “A woman doesn’t typically dress this way unless they want people to look at their assets.”

“Alright, so I can feel better about stealing a few glances every so often,” Spike sighed in relief, “You know, you’re alright, Rarity.”

“Because I let you stare at my breasts without getting slapped?” Rarity asked teasingly.

“Yes,” Spike confirmed with a huge grin. This made Rarity laugh even more.

“Oh Spike, you’re so funny!” Rarity said, wiping her tears from laughing so hard, “I haven’t laughed this hard in so long!”

“Get used to it, Rarity,” Spike said, “Cause with me as your knight, I plan to keep you laughing for as long as I know ya.”

“Thank you, Spike,” Rarity leaned into him, holding into his arm, “Despite hiring guards before, this is the most safe I’ve ever felt in a long time.”

“R-really?” Spike asked nervously, “I’m glad I can give you a sense of peace.”

The two of them sat together in a peaceful quiet for a good bit. Though Rarity’s issue persisted, she felt like, so long as she was with Spike, it’d be okay. She didn’t need to worry about anything. Spike would take care of her.

“Spike, can I ask you, to take me someplace odd?” Rarity asked after a bit.

“Sure,” Spike said, “I’ll take you anywhere you want to go.”

“Then, I need to see the back streets of the city,” Rarity said, looking into Spike’s eyes intensely, “Please.”

Spike seemed a bit taken aback, but nodded, “Alright, but stay close to me, okay? That place is filled with people who will take advantage of a woman like you.”

‘Oh, I’m hoping so,’ Rarity thought. Still, she nodded in acceptance.

The two of them got up, and Spike escorted her to a more rundown section of the city. Here, the atmosphere was so much different. It was quieter, not nearly as lively or as positive, and she was definitely getting the sense that more people were leering at her here.

This place, it was perfect.

As they walked, Rarity actually did see a few girls working the streets. This was good.

“What’s this city’s stance on prostitution?” Rarity asked her knight, “Out of curiosity.”

“Hm, well… pretty standard for most areas I imagine. Like, it’s frowned upon here, but no one really bats an eye at the girls. Hell, I’ve seen some of the royal guards hiring them.” Spike answered.

“Is that right,” Rarity asked, her eyes gleaming a bit.

“Why do ya ask?”

“No reason,” Rarity shook her head, leaning into Spike’s shoulder, “I was just, curious is all.”

“Mhm,” Spike nodded slowly.

“Say, is there a local pub around?” Rarity asked, “I could use a drink, and I figure that’d be the best place to get one here.”

“Well, I did wanna check in the with some friends there,” Spike said thoughtfully, “Alright, I’ll take you there, but I can’t stress this enough. Be extra careful, alright? This place is one of the seediest places in the city.”

That’s what she was hoping for, “Alright. I’ll be careful.”

The pub was a pretty standard looking bar, with low lights and plenty of rough looking men sitting at various tables. Some were gambling, some were just drinking, and some were socializing with the local barmaids or speaking to the escorts stationed around.

Why Rarity wanted to come here, Spike had no real idea. Not that he was going to judge, though.

“Here you go,” Spike said, sitting a glass of red wine before his assigned Maiden.

“Thank you so much, Spike,” Rarity smiled taking her glass and sipping it, “This is quite high quality.”

“This bar may look rough, but they serve good drinks,” Spike smiled rubbing his nose, “Now, are you sure you’re okay here? I’m pretty sure you’re getting some odd looks.”

“Oh yes, I’m fine Spike,” Rarity said waving him off, “Thank you for your concern though.”

Spike frowned a bit at this. She seemed almost too relaxed here. Either she was more used to this scene than her external appearance suggested, or she didn’t understand the true danger of this sort of place.

And the odd thing was, he couldn’t tell which it was. She didn’t seem like the sort of woman who was streets smart, but the fact she wasn’t trying to call attention to herself…

“Psst!” Spike heard from a distance. He turned to see two old friends of his sitting at a table together. One was a thicker young man with orange hair and sharp eyes, and the other was a taller and leaner man with green hair and a more relaxed and almost spacey air to him.

“Hey, I gotta check on some old friends,” Spike said, “I’ll keep you in my line of sight, but don’t move from this table, alright?”

Rarity nodded, “Understood, Spike,” she smiled, “I’ll stay here.”

Spike nodded and walked over to the table his old friends were sitting at, making sure he could still see where Rarity was.

“Sup, Snips and Snails?” Spike asked, nodding upward as a greeting.

“Don’t ‘Sup’ us!” the thicker guy, Snips exclaimed, “How’d you manage to bag a broad that beautiful?!”

“Bag a-” Spike shook his head, “Hang on. You don’t think she and I are…”

“I mean, you did bring her to your favorite bar...” Snails said averting his eyes, as usual speaking in a slow and relaxed manner.

“That was due to her request,” Spike defended, “Trust me, if I had my way, I’d never let her set foot in this place.” he looked to see a few of the other patrons eyeing her hungrily. Seeing that made him super tense.

“Okay, but that doesn’t answer the question of how,” Snips pointed out, “Come on, bro. You may have the luck of the Goddess, but not even she can get you a girlfriend. So spill it. Where’d you pick her up?”

“You can trust us,” Snails added, “Thieves’ Code and all that stuff.”

Spike took a deep breath, considering his options. This was delicate, but these two always had his back. They’d been friends since their days in the Orphanage, so by now, he knew he could trust them.

“Alright, I’ll tell you where she comes from, but you cannot tell anyone about this. Not until the Princess makes a statement about it, alright?” Spike said, getting nods from his two friends, “Okay, so remember when I got arrested a few days ago?”

“Stealing a doughnut from that guard, right?” Snails asked.

“It was delicious, but that’s beside the point. A lot happened after that,” he beckoned his friends to lean in closer to him, “Nightmares attacked the castle, and almost got away with two of the Maidens.”

“Seriously?” Snips asked, “How are you okay, then?”

“This is where things get a little crazy, alright? So bear with me,” his two friends nodded, “So, to make a long story short, me and four other people got picked by the Goddess herself, to become the protectors of the Maidens of Harmony.”

“You, a protector of the Maidens of Harmony?” Snips asked, narrowing his eyes somewhat deadpanned.

“Trust me, I’m shocked too,” Spike pulled out his Solar Phone, “But this lets me turn into something called a Power Ranger. Think of it as a Knight, but with the power of the Goddess.”

“Whoa…” Snails muttered, “I’ve never seen anything like this before...”

“So, if you’re telling the truth,” Snips added, “Then, the woman sitting at that table is...”

Spike nodded, “She’s one of the Maidens of Harmony, and I’m assigned as her knight.”

“Celestia, that’s major,” Snails pointed out, “You sure it’s safe to bring her here?”

“Absolutely not,” Spike said, “Which is why you two can’t tell anyone about who she really is. I don’t know what the castle has planned, but I’d rather this NOT get advertised too much.”

“Yeah, yeah, no problem,” Snips nodded, “Secret’s safe with us, Spike.”

“Thanks, guys,” Spike sighed in relief.

“Don't mention it,” Snails added, “But, you might wanna get her outta here soon, cause um…” he pointed over to Rarity’s table, where it looked like some of the patrons of the bar were beginning to approach her.

“Shit, good call,” Spike shot to his feet, “Thanks, you guys.” he got up and walked over to Rarity’s table just as the seedy looking customers were about to approach her, “Ready to go, Rarity?”

“Huh? Oh yes,” she smiled, “Thank you so much, Spike.”

“No problem,” Spike smiled, taking her hand and helping her up, “Let’s get you back to the castle.”

Rarity nodded smiling, and followed Spike as he left. He gave Snips and Snails one final look, both of them giving him a thumbs up and nodding, letting him know he could count on them, which was good. He didn’t know why Rarity wanted to come out here, but he had a feeling it was more than morbid curiosity. If that was the case, he’d feel better knowing that his brothers in arms were watching over Rarity too.

Unbeknownst to anyone, a man wearing a dark cloak was watching Spike and Rarity leave. He narrowed his eyes at Rarity and smirked. It was just as she said.

“That woman must not be too bright,” he chuckled, eyes glowing a sinister red, “But that’s alright. Makes my job that much easier.”

When they finally arrived back at the castle, they saw a huge crowd gathered at the front. So much that they ended up needing to take another entrance to get inside. It looked like the entire village was present, at least most of it.

“Wonder what that’s all about,” Spike asked.

“Me too,” Rarity concurred, “Ooooh, I hope it’s nothing bad.”

“Celestia would have called me on my Solar Phone,” Spike pointed out, “I’m sure it’s fine.”

“There you are,” Octavia said walking up to them, tension evident in her expression, “I was just about to contact you. Cadence is making an announcement, and requires all of us present.”

“What sort of announcement?” Spike asked carefully. Rarity’s heart began to race a bit. Was this what she was afraid it would be?

“Honestly, one I’m not entirely sure is a smart move, but I can see her logic in doing it,” Octavia said rubbing her eyes, “For now, just come with me. Part of this will be to show the people who’s protecting them now.”

“That didn’t take long,” Spike sighed, “Alright. Let’s get this over with, Rarity.”

“Hm? Y-yes,” Rarity said, her heart beating even faster now.

“Rarity, are you-” Spike began.

“Fine! I’m fine,” Rarity countered immediately, cutting him off and trying her hardest to not show how tense she was. If this was what she thought it was, it could potentially ruin everything.

As they walked to the balcony where Cadence and the others were waiting for them, Rarity could hear some of what the Princess was telling the people of the Kingdom, and honestly she didn’t like it one bit. She definitely heard the words “Maiden” “Goddess” and “Harmony” quite a bit, along with the word “Nightmare”. The people did need to feel secure, and she was certain that many of them were worried about the status of the other Maidens of Harmony, but this still made things a lot rougher for Rarity.

Damn it! She was already on the brink of going insane from being unable to work, and now this? If Rarity was right, she might not get a job ever again after-

“And it’s for this reason,” Cadence was heard clearly once they reached the balcony, “That I wish to show all of you, your new defenders!” she turned to Spike and Octavia, “Perfect. You two came just in time.”

“Is it okay for us to just do this?” Spike asked, noticing that Macintosh, Shining, and Applejack were already there, “To morph like this just to effectively show off?”

“We’re not showing off,” Cadence assured with a smile, “We’re letting the people know that they’re safe. Celestia already gave me the okay to do this.”

Spike shrugged, “Well, if you’re sure.”

Octavia took a deep breath, and stole a glance at Rarity before stepping forward to join her fellow Rangers. Rarity looked out at the crowd as she moved to stand beside Applejack. Everyone seemed confused, but somewhat awestruck at the same time.

“Kinda rare, seein’ Cadence act like a Princess, ya know?” Applejack said, “She really knows how to inspire hope in the people.”

“I’ll have to take your word for it,” Rarity replied, “Sadly I missed most of it.”

This time with Cadence in the middle, she nodded to her fellow Rangers. They all then pulled out their Solar Phones and typed in their codes before holding their phones close to their ears ready.

HERCULES!!!

PEGASUS!!!

PHOENIX!!!

DRACO!!!

LYNX!!!

“Celestial Guard! Stand Up!” they all shouted in unison, waving their phones and holding them up to the air. Above the castle, a large glowing magical circle appeared in the sky, and five bright lights shot down over them, each the color of their respective Rangers. In a bright flash, the five of them transformed into the Celestial Guard.

Everyone in the crowd gasped in awe before clapping and cheering. It was as if a great weight had been lifted off the people, much to both Rarity’s relief and dismay, as she knew what was about to follow.

“We, are the Celestial Guard!” Cadence proclaimed, “Knights chosen by the Goddess Celestia herself! No more, must you fear the Nightmares! We have been given the blessing of the Sun Herself, to protect the Maidens of Harmony, and you the people, from King Sombra’s darkness!” she then pulled Macintosh closer to her, “Though I am your Princess, this man, Macintosh Scarlet, has been chosen as the leader of the Celestial Guard, and as the chosen guardian to the Maiden of Honesty!”

Macintosh waved awkwardly to the crowd as they cheered loudly. If one listened closely, they’d just barely hear him say “Howdy.” to the crowd. At the same time, Applejack stepped forward to stand beside Macintosh, hugging his arm affectionately, and revealing herself as the Maiden of Honesty.

“And that’s not all,” Cadence continued, “For thanks to the actions of one brave man you all know very well, another Maiden has been secured and now is safe here in the castle.”

“Please no,” Rarity begged.

“I give you, our Green Ranger, Spike Dragneel, chosen guardian of the Maiden of Generosity!” Cadence called out, unknowingly making said Maiden wince in pain and frustration. She wanted to hide, but Cadence motioning for her to step forward ended that dream. She sighed and stepped forward, now standing beside Spike and holding his arm as he waved to the crowd.

“So much for keeping a low profile, eh?” Spike whispered to Rarity, probably just as nervous as she was. Lucky for him, he had the luxury of a helmet that covered his face completely, so he didn’t need to put on the mask of being calm.

“Indeed.” Rarity muttered, waving to the crowd. As she did so, her heart sank. Yes, this was understandable, and a good thing overall. It gave the people hope, after all.

But she could count the number of potential customers she lost from this, and it, was a big number.

“Ooooh, if my memories of the past are right...” Pinkie Pie winced, stepping back into the crowd a bit, “Cadence, I know you mean well, but this could open a whole slew of problems in the future…”

“So, those are Celestia’s knights?” the rainbow haired woman asked folding her arms, “Hrm… we better think carefully how we approach them. Don’t go there without me watching over you Flutter-” she looked around, noticing that she was alone. She then groaned stomping her foot, “Ugh! Not again! Where is she this time?!” she fussed running off to find her companion.

She could literally get lost in a narrow hallway, so in a bustling town like this…

“And with that, her fate is sealed,” Chrysalis purred with a sensual smirk, “Cadence, Cadence, Cadence, so eager to do right by your fallen parents. You make my job too easy~”

The following day, the Rangers and Sunburst all had a meeting in the Crystal Shrine about the announcement yesterday. Oddly, Cadence was super tense about it now.

“It was spur of the moment,” she said pacing around, “And at the time it felt like the right thing to do. Now though… I’m not so sure.”

“Honestly, there are pros and cons to it,” Sunburst admitted, “But, there are also pros and cons to keeping silent too.”

“After all, now the people of the town know to be mindful of the Maidens if they’re seen walking around,” Octavia said, “They will help us look out for them.”

Spike leaned against a wall further away, arms folded and frowning to himself as he listened.

“If you ask me, they shouldn’t be walking around town at all.” Shining said stepping forward.

“What are you saying, Commander?” Octavia asked turning to her commanding officer, “That Lady Applejack and Lady Rarity should be effectively imprisoned here in the castle?”

“They have lives, Shining,” Cadence added.

“Right now, their lives are in constant danger,” Shining argued, “Even with their Solar Phones. We should be acting to prevent danger as much as possible.”

“A fair maiden’s safety is more than just her physical wellbeing, Commander,” Octavia argued back, “If she isn’t mentally well, then we are effectively no better than Sombra in that we’re forcing them to stay in one place, and causing them distress.”

Shining looked like he wanted to say something to that, but a sharp look from Octavia said she had no plan to back down on her stance, prompting him to take a deep breath, “Okay, fair.”

Macintosh turned to look at Spike, who’d been silent for the duration of their meeting. He seemed really tense about something, too.

“The sad reality is, there isn’t a perfect solution,” Sunburst said, “Yes, the Princess’ announcement might have painted a target on the Maidens, but it does also put the townspeople at ease. Also, this way any Maidens currently in town will also know where they can find asylum.”

“Do we know where the other Maidens are?” Macintosh asked, turning his attention to the Crystal Heart, where Celestia’s Avatar resided.

“I can confirm that they are indeed all in town,” Celestia spoke, emerging from the Crystal Heart, “However, their exact locations are difficult to decipher.”

“The Crystal Empire is a big place,” Shining said thoughtfully, “And the only way we’d know it’s them is by checking for their birthmarks. Considering where those are though…”

“Yeah…” Macintosh rubbed the back of his neck, “Can’t, exactly ask every woman to jus’, you know, lift their skirts to show us…”

“I don’t know. I might be able to persuade a woman or two to remove a bit of clothing,” Octavia mused with a smirk.

“You just want an excuse to sleep with them,” Shining muttered with narrowed eyes.

“You’ve already told me that both Applejack and Rarity are off limits,” Octavia shrugged, “Not entirely sure why.”

“You know exactly why,” Shining said, “They’re not just women for you to lay. They’re the most important human beings in the world.”

Spike took a deep breath hearing this.

“Spike? Are you okay?” Cadence asked, turning to the green clad rogue.

“Ya seem tense,” Macintosh added.

“I’m fine.” Spike pushed off the wall, heading out of the Shrine.

“Where are you going, Sir Dragneel?” Octavia asked, with a confused frown.

“Too check on someone,” he answered without stopping. The remaining Rangers and Sunburst all looked at each other confused. Behind them, Celestia pressed a finger to her lips thoughtfully watching him leave.

“What do you mean you can’t accept this?” Rarity whined as the man before her handed her card back.

“M’lady, you’re very generous, as I’d expect,” he said with a bow, “But, it would be indecent of me to take advantage of one such as yourself.”

“Truly, it’s no trouble at all,” Rarity pressed, “You won’t get in any trouble for this. And if anyone says anything, I will vouch for you, I promise.”

“I, I apologize M’lady. The offer is quite tempting, but I must respectfully decline,” he bowed to her again and walked off. Rarity reached for him as he left, and then groaned in frustration.

“Oooooooh! Damn it all to hell!” she fussed. That was the seventh one who’d declined all day. When she woke up, her “hunger” had only grown in intensity, but was now matched with the dread of not being able to do anything about it.

Her fears had been sadly confirmed too. She’d tried handing her cards to multiple people all day, and letting them know where they could find her, but no one was accepting her offers. They all thought she was just being generous, but this wasn’t just about her virtue anymore.

She was horny! She needed someone to take care of her, or she’d go insane! She was already on the verge of insanity as is!

She sat down on a nearby bench and closed her eyes, taking a deep breath to try and control herself, “Okay. It’s fine, Rarity. It’s perfectly fine. Not like you haven’t run into issues like this before,” she opened her eyes and leaned back, crossing her legs as she looked up at the sky, “But self-pleasure only goes so far. Truth is, I…” Rarity bit her lip and placed a hand on her head, “Fuck me, I’m completely out of control… at this rate, my only option is to…” she looked in the direction of the back streets. Yes, the people there were seedier, but maybe she’d have better luck finding someone who didn’t care that she was the Maiden of Generosity.

Worst case scenario, she knew how to reach Spike if she needed him.

“It’s reckless,” she admitted, rising to her feet, “But I have to do something about this.” she began walking toward the backstreets, but stopped. She then pulled out her Solar Phone and looked at it, thinking of her knight.

He was always so attentive, and seemed to see her in a light others didn’t see. She didn’t know why his gaze felt so different, or meant so much to her. Maybe she could ask him to…

“No,” she decided, putting the Solar Phone back into her purse, “He can never find out about this. He… he’s sweet but,” she closed her eyes tearing up a bit, “He wouldn’t understand.” she carefully wiped her tears and walked toward her destination. Unknown to her, a familiar green haired witch watched her from another alleyway.

“That’s right, Maiden of Generosity. Fall right into my trap,” Chrysalis chuckled.

Spike couldn’t find Rarity anywhere in the castle, so he ran into town instead and began asking around. Surprisingly, quite a few had seen her, but no one knew where she was now.

“Damn it!” Spike swore, pulling out his Solar Phone, “Rarity, where are you?” he typed in the number combination to reach her, and waited, pacing back and forth. When she didn’t pick up after a few seconds to a minute, he hung up with a frustrated growl, “Okay. Plan B,” he closed his eyes and took a deep breath, allowing his intuition to take hold. If conventional means didn’t work, he’d just have to rely on his best asset to find her.

Luck.

He opened his eyes, and began running in a random direction. Either he’d bump into her, or he’d find a sign that could lead him to where she was.

The backstreets were quite the maze. Still, she was able to find her way to the pub pretty easily. She noticed that a lot of the men there were checking her out still. But she also noticed that sadly, all of them averted their gaze when they saw her.

That… was a bad sign.

“Don’t tell me that even they’re too afraid,” Rarity sighed, going to sit at the bar, “Wait, what am I saying? Of course they’re too afraid, now that I think about it. Most of these men probably are already hiding from the Crystal Knights for one reason or another,” she pouted.

“Should you really be in a place like this alone, Miss?” a voice said from behind her, making Rarity jump. She turned to see a handsome, but somewhat simply dressed man with dirty blond hair and amber eyes standing there.

“Oh, you scared me,” she said catching her breath, “Truth is, I’m probably about to leave soon. I, was searching for something, but it looks like I won’t be finding it here.”

“Perhaps I can help,” he sat down beside her, “I happen to be very good at finding lost things.”

Rarity laughed lightly, “Truth is, I haven’t lost anything per say. Thing is, I…” she stopped and shook her head, “You wouldn’t get it.”

“Try me,” he pressed. Rarity looked at him carefully, her heart racing a bit. This was, odd, but he didn’t seem like a bad person. Still…

“It’s, nothing really,” Rarity said getting up, “I, should probably get-”

“Miss, it’s alright,” he said, gently taking her hand, “In fact, I can probably guess what’s troubling you.”

“Oh really?” Rarity raised a skeptical eyebrow.

“With how tense and somewhat fidgety you are, it’s not hard to tell,” he pointed out, “Even the Maiden of Generosity has needs, after all.”

Damn. He could see right through her.

“Let me guess,” he said releasing her hand and calling the bartender for a drink, “Trying to find someone to sleep with you, but no one’s willing to risk the ire of the Crystal Knights or the wrath of the Goddess?”

“Got it in one,” she sighed sitting back down, “Times like this, I can’t stand being a Maiden of Harmony.”

“Must be rough,” he said, “Two drinks please. Brandy for me, and something exceptionally strong for the lovely lady here.”

“You really don’t have to trouble yourself,” Rarity said, feeling a bit funny about him buying her a drink like this.

“M’lady, you are a truly generous spirit,” he smiled, “But it’s okay for you to be selfish every once in a while.”

“That’s, hard for me, as I’m sure you can understand,” she said, subtly moving a bit of her skirt aside to show the purple diamond on her hip.

“Ah yes. I forgot that you’re compelled to be selfless because of that. Is that, forced onto you, or…”

“It’s hard to explain,” Rarity said fixing her dress, “I suppose if you look at it from one lifetime, yes. It’s somewhat forced onto me. But I possess memories of countless lifetimes, albeit most of them are subconscious unless something brings them to the forefront.”

“So more learned behavior at this point.”

“Pretty much,” the bartender handed both of them their drinks, “Thank you, kind sir,” she reached into her purse to pay him, but the man beside her stopped her, “Sir, it’s quite alri-”

“My treat,” he said, pulling out some coins to pay the bartender, “Please, Miss. Accept my generosity.”

“A-alright,” she said uneasily. As she reached for her drink, she heard a pretty melody from her purse. She looked inside and saw a green light shining from the center gemstone of her Solar Phone.

Spike…

“Is something wrong?” the man asked.

“Hm? Oh, um, it’s,” the melody stopped, and the gemstone ceased glowing, “It’s nothing.” she smiled and took a sip of her drink. Her eyes widened at how strong said drink was, “Mercy! I think I’m already feeling this one!”

The man laughed, “I take it you’re not much of a drinker then. Take it slow, alright?”

Rarity nodded, sipping the drink slowly as to not get too strong of a buzz.

“So, tell me. How bad is it?” the man asked Rarity, “Your feeling of need?”

“Being completely honest, it’s downright unbearable,” Rarity said outright, “I openly admit that I have a problem with hypersexuality.”

“Ooof,” he winced, “Is that, related to you being…”

“Probably,” Rarity sighed, taking another sip her alcoholic beverage, “I know that it’s what prompted me to take up being an escort as a way of dealing with it. Not only do I give my clients a piece of myself, but I also get to have as much sex as I want and need to without anyone asking questions.”

“What did you do about your birthmark, though?” the man asked Rarity, “The second someone saw that, they’d probably ask questions.”

“I covered it,” she explained, “It’s amazing what you can pull off with enough makeup applied in the right place.”

“Fair enough,” the man took a large swig of his drink, “Tell you what. How about you let me take care of you?”

“Really?” Rarity asked wide eyed and blushing, “You’re sure?”

“I should warn you in advanced, my interests are a bit on the kinkier side,” the man warned, “Is that okay?”

Was it? Thanks to the drink, critical thinking had become a bit of a challenge. That said, this man was quite nice to her so far, so… maybe it was fine? Even now, she could feel the heat in her loins, and it was becoming almost unbearable. She was sure the alcohol didn’t help with that.

“Yes, that’s fine,” she decided after a bit, “My safe word is Onyx, just so you’ll know in advanced.”

“Perfect,” he smiled taking her hand, “I know of an inn we can use. Follow me.”

Rarity nodded, finishing her drink before leaving with the man. There was a voice in the back of her head screaming that this was a bad idea, but that voice was becoming a bit harder to hear.

It was fine. Perfectly fine. There was no way she’d fall for that trick again.

“What do you think?” Snips asked his brother as Rarity left with the mysterious guy, “Trouble?”

“Definitely trouble,” Snails nodded, still with his dreamy look, but more outwardly serious, “We should keep an eye on them.”

“Read my mind. Let’s go,” Snips said. He and Snails got up from their table and followed closely. Why she was here without Spike, they didn’t know. But if she really was the Maiden of Generosity…

This stunk like a trap.

The inn he took her to was a bit far from the castle, which as Rarity began to sober up did have her concerned. However, she still had her Solar Phone with her, so it was alright.

The innkeeper was pleasant enough, despite having a bit of an odd smile. She didn’t ask questions though, as her client brought her to what she assumed was his room, since he didn’t need to talk to the innkeeper or anything about buying a room.

Once in the room, the two of them wasted no time getting started, making out furiously as he laid her down on his bed. She could feel his bulge from his pants, which let her know he’d be quite capable of helping her with her problem. He was definitely going to be a frequent customer at this rate.

As they kissed, the man (whom she just now realized she neglected to ask him his name) held her wrists up, and began tying them to the top of the bed.

“You certainly, don’t waste time, do you, sir?” Rarity asked breathlessly, her heart racing from the excitement of what was about to happen.

“Never do,” the man smirked sensually, “Excuse me, while I get something to make this a bit more fun.” he said getting up. Rarity writhed and played with her bindings a bit, happy she had her safe word. There was no way she’d be able to get out by herself otherwi-

“Chrysalis, it’s me,” the man said, “I got her.”

Wait. What did he just say?

“Excellent work, Chamaeleon,” Chrysalis’ voice purred, her reflection showing in a nearby window, “I’ll be right over to take her to Sombra. Till then, have fun~”

“Trust me, I plan to,” the man smirked as Chrysalis’ reflection vanished. He then turned back to Rarity, who was breathing heavily and pulling at her bindings with more intent, “So, where were we, M’lady?”

“Who are you?!” Rarity asked, glaring at her “client” with gritted teeth.

“I suppose I don’t need this disguise anymore,” he waved his hand over his face, and morphed into a green and yellow lizard monster with thin body armor, big eyes, sharp claws, and a long tongue hanging out of his mouth somewhat, “My name’s Chamaeleon! King Sombra’s personal infiltration officer!”

And just like that, she fell for it. Again. It was just like with the Canis brothers before. They’d used her job as an escort as a means to draw her into a trap. She’d hoped and prayed that was a one-time incident, and that they wouldn’t use the same tactic again. Realizing she was wrong, Rarity closed her eyes and gave a pained sigh.

“Damn it,” she muttered, “I am going to have to give this life up…”

Chamaeleon gave her a mocking laugh, “I can’t believe Chrysalis was right! You really did fall for the same trick twice in a row! Well, since it’s just the two of us now,” he slowly walked over to her, “I suppose we might as well get to the fun part.”

“Don’t you dare touch me, you monster!” Rarity demanded, taking advantage of her legs being free to try and push him off of her. What ensued was a violent “wrestling” match with Rarity screaming for help nonstop. Said match ended eventually though, as Chamaeleon managed to tie her ankles to the foot of the bed.

“Now, now, don’t be like that,” he sneered sitting over her, “I thought we had something special.”

“That was before I realized you were one of Sombra’s goons! When my knight arrives, you’ll be sorry!”

“There’s no way they’ll find you out here,” he laughed, “This entire building now belongs to the Nightmares! Face it! Your luck’s run out!”

Maybe hers was running low, but she knew one person had infinite luck. As Chamaeleon leaned in to lick her cheek, she let out a loud shrill scream of desperation.

“HELP ME!!! SPIKE!!!”

“HELP ME!!! SPIKE!!!” they heard her scream from inside the inn. Realizing what this meant, the two thieves backed up inside a nearby alleyway.

“Shoot! Um…! Uh…! Got it!” Snips slammed his fist in his palm, “Stay here, Snails! I’m gonna track down Spike! Make sure they don’t leave that inn!”

“Got it, Snips!” Snails nodded. The two thieves gave each other their signature pound and handshake, before Snips raced off back into town, leaving Snails behind to watch the inn. There was no way they could get in there, but if Spike really was the Goddess’ knight now, he could. And she did call out his name just now.

All the thieves could do was pray and hope that they could get to him in time.

Spike ran to the backstreets, having a feeling she went there for some reason. Sure enough, the bartender saw a woman who fit her description, talking to someone before leaving. He ran out of the bar and began searching the town, but saw no sign of her.

Spike screamed in frustration and pounded a nearby wall before backing up against it. He then pulled out his amulet and looked at it frantically, “Mom… please…! My luck can’t run out now…!” he closed his eyes tightly, tearing up a bit, “She needs me…! Please, give me something…! Anything!”

“Spike!” Snips called out, catching his attention.

“Snips!” Spike ran over to him, “Have you seen Rarity?!”

“That’s why I’m looking for you!” Snips said frantically, “Some weird guy took her to the backstreet inn! She was screaming for help!”

Spike’s eyes widened, “Nightmares!”

“Snails is still watching the place! Come on!” Snips said urgently, running back to the inn. Spike thanked the Goddess and his Mother’s spirit before running after his brother in arms. Seconds later, they found Snails still in the alleyway.

“Found him!” Snips said when they reached him, “Anything change in there?”

Snails shook his head, “But I think I heard her cry a bit in there!”

Spike gritted his teeth looking at the inn. He then pulled out his Solar Phone and dialed three zeroes, “Celestia, it’s Spike! I found Rarity! She’s in the backstreet inn!”

“I feel her presence. She is in distress,” Celestia said, “Spike, I will send the other Rangers to assist you. Keep her safe until they arrive.”

Snips and Snails looked at Spike in silent awe. He was… was he actually talking to the Goddess with that weird golden thing…?

“Don’t have to tell me twice,” Spike nodded hanging up. He then held the phone out a dialed his Morph Code, holding the phone up to the side of his face.

(insert song: Feel my Blade - Final Fantasy IX)

DRACO!!!

“Celestial Guard!” he swung his arm in a wide arc, and then held the phone to the sky, “Stand Up!”

~Morphing Scene~

Spike held his arms out as Celestia’s symbol appeared over his chest. As he held up his arms toward the golden light shining on him, the large green aura of the Draco Zord briefly appeared, roaring in rage before shrinking into constellation form and turning into his armor. The light vanished forming his helmet, his confident smirk ever present despite the situation at hand.

~End Morphing Scene~

“Spike, you really are Celestia’s knight now…” Snips said slowly, both he and Snails awestruck by what they just witnessed.

“Snips, Snails, thank you.” Spike said softly, turning back to them, “Leave the rest to me!”

“Spike!” Snips called out as he left. He then ran over to him, “Good job getting out of the backstreets, man. We’re proud of ya.”

Snails nodded in agreement, running to stand beside Snips. Spike looked down a bit, smiling behind his helmet.

“Thanks, you guys,” he said. With Spike still in his Ranger form, the three thieves gave each other their three-way variant of their pound, fist bump, and handshake, “One for all!”

“All for us!” Snips and Snails finished in unison. Spike then ran over to the inn, drawing his broadsword and holding it at the ready.

“So, think the Goddess is mad at us?” Snips asked his bro, “You know, for the lives we lead?”

“Nah,” Snails shook his head, “If Spike made it, I know we’ve got a shot.”

Snips nodded, thinking about that. Suddenly, he kind of felt like he could do anything.

Chamaeleon hadn’t done anything directly to Rarity yet beyond touching her and ripping her clothes a bit. However, if the lecherous look in his eyes was any indication, that was about to change. She looked up at him trembling, still struggling with her bindings.

“That’s a good look for you,” Chamaeleon sneered, “Now, how about you scream again for me?”

Just then, a familiar cry of determination was heard, followed by the Green Ranger bursting through the window and rolling to one knee, surprising both Rarity and the Nightmare.

“Spike!” Rarity cried hopefully.

“How did you get here?!” Chamaeleon growled.

Instead of answering, Spike wasted no time swinging his broadsword at the chameleon monster. He ducked and dodged most of the swings, but blocked the last one. Spike pushed him into a wall to make him drop his guard, and then slashed a few times in the chest.

Chamaeleon’s tongue lashed out at Spike, causing a surprising amount of damage if the sparks and his pain filled grunt was any indication. Chamaeleon then lashed out at Spike with his claws, forcing the thief to go on the defenses. Thanks to how small the room was, however, a few of his slashes also managed to hit the ropes binding Rarity’s ankles, setting her free partially.

Whether that was Spike’s intention or just sheer luck, Rarity wasn’t sure. She wasn’t about to complain though.

Spike clashed his blade with Chamaeleon and glared at him from behind the visor of his helmet, “If you touched her, I swear I’ll-”

“Oh, she and I had loads of fun before you showed up!” Chamaeleon taunted, “She wanted it just as bad as I did!”

“You!” Spike kicked him back, slashed him in the chest hard, and then turned around and slashed at the ropes binding Rarity’s wrists, cutting them immediately and helping her stand. He pushed her behind him as he circled the lizard monster in the small room.

(end song)

“That woman isn’t nearly as graceful as you think she is,” Chamaeleon continued, “In the end, the Maiden you’re protecting is nothing more than a filthy whore.”

“Shut, up!” Spike growled holding his sword out, “Keep talking, and I’ll cut that tongue out of your mouth!”

Rarity turned away and bit her lip in shame. Spike had no idea that in truth…

“Oh? Then how do you think I managed to get her here?” Chamaeleon held his hands out, “After we killed and replaced all of the staff, Chrysalis had me pose as a potential client and lure her here. The Canis Brothers used the same tactic to get her the last time,” he laughed out loud, “Your so called “pure maiden” is just a sex addicted whore! I bet she can’t count the number of men she’s slept with!”

“Stop…! Please…!” Rarity begged tearfully, catching Spike’s attention, “N-no more…! Please no more…!”

“Rarity…” Thanks to his helmet, she couldn’t see his expression, but realizing that he was probably horrified by the accusations being true, she turned away from him in shame.

“How’s it feel, knowing that the woman you’re protecting is a filthy slut?” Chamaeleon asked tauntingly as Wisps gathered into the room, “She’s not worth protecting, so why not just set yourself free of the burden and give her to me?”

Spike growled looking back at the Nightmare, “Rarity, do you trust me?”

“Spike, I…”

“Do you trust me?!”

“Y-yes. With my, l-life,” she said, eyes wide in surprise. Both at his intensity and words. Was he, still…

Spike picked her up bridal style, “A thief doesn’t take the front door anyway!” he then jumped out the window, not once releasing Rarity until they were on the ground. The Nightmare ran to the window just as they left.

“Shoot!” Chamaeleon swore, “Why’d he have to be a freaking Robin Hood thief?!”

It was night by the time they reached the market place, and Spike hadn’t dropped his Morph once. Once they reached the fountain at the park, both Spike and Rarity sat down to catch their breath.

“This armor,” Spike panted, “May give me super powers, but a jog like that, is still work,” he turned to Rarity, “You, okay?”

“No Spike, I’m not,” Rarity shook her head. She then stood up and turned her back to Spike, “You heard him, right? About what sort of woman I am?”

“Yeah, I heard.” Spike looked up at the sky.

“It’s true, everything he said about me…!” she continued, trembling as the tears rolled down her cheeks, “Back in Canterlot, I’m the highest paid escort there…!”

Spike stood up and looked at Rarity, perfectly silent as she spoke.

“And before you ask, no I don’t do it because I have to! I do it because I want to!” she continued, breaking into heavy sobs, “I sleep around, have sex with men I don’t know the name of half the time, all in the name of “Generosity” when in reality I’m just feeding my addiction!”

“Oh Rarity…” Spike sighed.

“You say, I’m the most beautiful woman in the world in your eyes…! I love you so much… for that…! But I can’t accept it…! I can’t, because I… I’m just… J-just… a horny… dirty…”

Arms clad in green and white armor wrapped around her, holding her close and cutting her off before she could continue.

“Stop. Don’t do this to yourself,” Spike urged softly, “You’re too beautiful to cry like this.”

“S-Spike…?” Rarity’s eyes widened at his words.

“You think this changes anything?” he asked, clearly smiling behind his helmet, “Rarity, when you learned I was a thief, you didn’t think any less of me. You still insisted that I be your knight.”

“I… I did…”

“Well, now it’s my turn,” he turned her around to face him, “I don’t care that you’re an escort, and I certainly don’t care about the amount of men you’ve slept with. How you live to your virtue is up to you, Rarity. Whether that be doing something like making dresses, or giving them what I imagine is a loving experience with a truly beautiful woman.”

“But… but I… I’m not doing it just for them…!” Rarity said still trembling, “I’m doing it for myself! I’m being selfish!”

“Okay, so? I get that your virtue is Generosity, so you’re compelled to be selfless, but you can’t just give and give without having something to give. You’ve gotta take care of yourself too,” he rubbed her arm gently, “And hey, think of it this way. When I steal from some rich asshole and give what I took to a family that’s suffering in the backstreets, do you think they’re upset that I lined my pockets a bit?”

“I, imagine not,” Rarity muttered, “I imagine they’re, just happy they have enough money, to feed themselves.”

“Same thing here,” Spike said, “Okay, so you’re a bit hypersexual. You found a way to turn that into something that gives to others, and regardless of your reasons, you’re happy that you do it. If you ask me, that sounds just like something the Maiden of Generosity would do. I’m proud to be your knight, and honored to have you as my partner!”

“Oh Spike!” Rarity wrapped her arms around the Green Ranger tightly, “I’m sorry I kept it from you! I was afraid that you would think I were disgusting, and that you wouldn’t want to be my knight anymore!”

“Well, you can get that fear out of your mind,” Spike assured, rubbing her back gently, “I’m not going anywhere.”

“Oh how sweet~ Ugh, it makes me sick to my stomach.”

“Chrysalis!” Spike released Rarity and stood in front of her with sword drawn, “Where are- ARGH!!!” he screamed as green electricity shot him in the chest, knocking him back into the fountain.

“Spike!” Rarity called out, turning back at the sound of Chrysalis’ grating laugh. Beside her was Chamaeleon and an army of Wisps.

“Now that you’ve gotten that out of your system,” Chrysalis taunted, “What do you say we get you to your new home?”

As Spike staggered to his feet, Rarity backed away, glaring at Chrysalis both in fear and anger.

(insert song: Feel My Blade - Final Fantasy IX)

“I have a better idea!” Octavia proclaimed. Already morphed, the Yellow Ranger jumped over the Fountain with her bow ready and fired down at the Nightmare squad, pushing them back a bit. This was followed by both the Red and Blue Ranger flipping over head with their Hero’s Blade and spear out respectively. Macintosh went straight for Chamaeleon while Shining Armor slashed at Chrysalis, knocking both of them back.

“Ahh!” Chrysalis screamed in pain, “Don’t just stand there! After them! Capture the Maiden!” she ordered the Wisps. They rushed toward Rarity and the still injured Spike, but were stopped by Cadence, who rolled in front of them with her claws out and slashed all of them back before standing in front of Rarity with her arms out.

“You two okay?” Macintosh asked, as all the Rangers gathered around Rarity.

“Yeah, we are now,” Spike confirmed, Shining Armor and Octavia helping him out of the fountain, “What took you so long?”

“Wisps,” Octavia said simply, “Probably all searching for you.”

“Rarity, I’m so sorry!” Cadence cried, “All of this is my fault, I’m sure!”

“No Cadence, you did what you felt was right,” Rarity urged, “This, this was my folly. If anything, this day has been,” she took a deep breath and gave a saddened smile, “A bit of an unfortunate wake up call.”

“Hey, this is a nice moment and all,” Shining said, pointing forward with his spear, “But we’ve still got a Nightmare to end!”

“Oooooh! I can’t stand you!” Chrysalis fussed as she, Chamaeleon, and their remaining Wisps gathered before them.

“We’re not giving up!” Chamaeleon seethed, “That Maiden is coming with us!”

“With the Strength of Hercules!” Macintosh shouted, slashing his Hero’s Sword down and then standing proudly, “Celestial Guard Red!”

“With the Speed of the Pegasus!” Shining shouted, spinning his blade around before holding it behind him and holding his other arm out, “Celestial Guard Blue!”

“With the Passion of the Phoenix!" Octavia proclaimed, swinging her bladed bow around before holding it ready to fire, “Celestial Guard Yellow!”

“With the Power of the Dragon!” Spike shouted, summoning his ax and swinging it in wide arcs before resting it on his shoulder, motioning for his opponents to come as always, “Celestial Guard Green!”

“With the Courage of the Lynx!” Cadence shouted, slashing with her claws before doing a back flip and landing hunched forward claws out in a cat stance, “Celestial Guard Pink!”

“We are the knights chosen by the Light of the Sun!” all five proclaimed at the same time, holding their weapons out in the middle of them, “Power Rangers! Celestial Guard!” they all shouted, posing with their weapons ready, a massive explosion of energy behind them, making Rarity happy she ran to take cover.

(insert song: Random Encounter Battle theme - Final Fantasy IX)

“Celestial Guard, Attack!” Macintosh shouted, prompting all the Rangers to charge at the Nightmares, who met them halfway as always.

This time, Macintosh and Shining Armor stayed together, slashing Wisps back with their respective weapons. By now, they knew their patterns easily, so between that and the two of them being the best fighters in the team, the Wisps went down without much of a fight.

“Starting to get the hang of this spear!” Shining noted, standing back to back with Macintosh.

“Perfect! Then let’s take these guys out and help the others!” Macintosh said. The two of them charged up their weapons and swung at the Wisps with empowered slashes, even spinning around in unison to hit the mooks the other was facing. As the Wisps fell back and exploded, Macintosh and Shining Armor’s grasped hands like brothers.

“Nice one!” Shining said.

“Same to you!” Macintosh agreed.

Octavia rushed at Chrysalis with her bow and slashed with the blade ends, but the witch was far too fast and dodged all of her attacks with ease. She then spun around just in time to spin kick Cadence’s claws away, and fired green electricity at the Princess turned Ranger.

“Cadence!” Octavia cried. She took a few slashes in the chest from Chrysalis, but she quickly recovered and blocked with her bow. Chrysalis turned back just in time to see Cadence slash down with her claws. She took the attack, but then kicked her back a bit, spinning around to kick Octavia back as well. The two of them kept Chrysalis between them as they traded blows, but to the witch’s credit, she actually held them back pretty well for a good bit. Eventually she rolled from between them, charged up her magic, and fired green electricity at the two female Rangers, who tried to block but were eventually knocked back onto the ground.

“Give it up, Princess!” Chrysalis taunted, “Even with the Goddess’ blessing, you won’t defeat me!”

“Damn, you…!” Cadence swore. She was about to charge, but Octavia stopped her, “Octavia!”

“She’s trying to bait you,” Octavia said helping Cadence up, “Our goal here is to just hold her off.”

“I hate that you’re right.” Cadence muttered. Chrysalis charged at the two female Rangers, resuming their fight and still trying to push past them to grab hold of Rarity.

Chamaeleon and Spike rolled onto a clearing in the park and then charged at each other, claw and axe meeting in a weapon clash.

“Maybe when we get the Maiden to the Underworld, King Sombra will let me be the one to break her.” Chamaeleon taunted lecherously.

“I’m not letting you lay a finger on her, ever again!” Spike pushed the Nightmare back and slashed with his ax. Chamaeleon rolled back and then lashed out with his tongue. Like before, said tongue hit incredibly hard, actually knocking the Green Ranger on his back.

“Spike! No!” Rarity called out from behind her hiding place as Chamaeleon walked over to him and grabbed him by the neck.

“How about I kill you in front of the whore Maiden?” Chamaeleon sneered, gripping the Green Ranger’s neck tighter and holding him up as he struggled, “Let the last thing she sees of this world be her so called knight fall in battle.”

“Rarity’s, not a whore…!” Spike seethed, grabbing his hand and using as much strength as he could muster to pry it open, “She’s, an, escort!” he then kicked Chamaeleon back and fell to one knee.

“Spike!” Rarity called out running to his side, “Spike, are you okay?” she asked, worried when he started coughing and holding his chest.

“Yeah, I’m fine,” Spike said, glad she couldn’t see his face wincing in pain right now, “Don’t worry. My luck hasn’t, run out yet.”

“Oh Spike…” Rarity teared up, hugging him. All of this was her fault.

“You wanna spare him?” Chamaeleon asked, rising to his feet and flexing an arm approaching, “Come with me, slut! Do that, and I may let him live!”

Rarity bit her lip and turned away torn. Between knowing what it’d mean for her and her virtue kicking in, she was stuck in a terrible loop.

“Don’t, try that shit…!” Spike said, forcing himself to his feet and holding his arms out, “I’ve been, in a race against Death for, twenty years, and he hasn’t caught up yet!”

“S-Spike…” Rarity looked up at him wide eyed. Even now, barely able to stand, and knowing what she truly was, he was still fighting so hard for her. Looking at him, her heart was racing again for a different reason than it was earlier.

“So try your luck!” Spike proclaimed through gritted teeth. He was still hurt from Chrysalis’ attack, and tired from all the running, but he wasn’t going to fall here. Not with her depending on him.

“Sounds fun!” Chamaeleon tried to attack with his tongue again, but the Red and Blue Ranger both charged in behind Spike with their weapons charged and slashed Chamaeleon back with a blue and red X strike.

“You mess with one of us, you’re messin’ with all five!” Macintosh shouted, pointing his blade at Chamaeleon, “Spike, think you got one more good attack in ya?”

“You kidding? I could do this all day!” Spike groaned, standing between his fellow Rangers with his ax ready, “Rarity, stay back.”

Rarity nodded wordlessly and ran off to hide again, stealing one last look at Spike.

The three Rangers rushed at Chamaeleon, with Shining reaching him first and slashing him with the twin blades of his spear. As Chamaeleon tried to strike him with his claws, the Blue Ranger rolled out of the way for the Red Ranger to rush in, slashing horizontally with his Hero’s Blade. He then threw a side kick that was blocked, and took two slashes in the chest before Chamaeleon struck the Red Ranger with his tongue.

That’s exactly what he wanted too, as Macintosh immediately grabbed the tongue holding it out.

“Wha! Leh go!” Chamaeleon cried, mouth forced open.

“Not a chance! Spike, now!” Macintosh commanded as Shining held Chamaeleon back with his spear.

Spike screamed in rage, holding his ax ready and charging it.

“I warned you, what I’d do if you kept calling Rarity a whore!” Spike seethed, raising his ax. He then brought it down on his tongue, cutting it completely off.

Chamaeleon screamed in pain as Shining tossed him aside, “Since you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all.” the Blue Ranger taunted.

Chamaeleon cried out incoherently in pain as the three Rangers charged up their weapons, Spike standing in the middle this time. Once fully charged, Macintosh and Shining both slashed diagonally with their weapons while Spike slashed horizontally.

All three attacks hit Chamaeleon together, making the lizard monster scream in agony before falling to the ground, exploding as the three Rangers turned their backs to him.

(end song)

Chrysalis saw that and screamed in anger, “Damn you all to hell!”

“How about we send you there?!” Cadence asked, she and Octavia rushing to attack her.

Chrysalis back flipped away and held her hand out, “Oh Goddess of Darkness! Grant your fallen child second life!”

The Lunar Seal glowed, and Chamaeleon’s remains reformed before he grew to the size of the castle, “How about we go for round two, Rangers?!”

(insert song: Big Battle - Digital Devil Saga vol. 1)

“No!” Cadence cried.

“Coward!” Octavia seethed. Chrysalis laughed loudly.

“I call it being resourceful! Chamaeleon, show them who’s boss now that you’re all grown up~!”

“This is gonna be fun!” Chamaeleon stomped on the ground, causing all the Rangers to roll out of the way and gather together.

“Hey, think you can summon that titan again?!” Shining asked, “Because I think we could use it!”

Macintosh nodded, pulling out his Solar Phone about to call for Applejack, but Rarity held his hand, “Rarity?”

“This is my fault, so I will atone,” Rarity said stepping forward, “Spike, if you’re able, please. I can’t do this without you.”

Spike nodded, standing beside Rarity, “Alright! I’m with you, partner!”

Rarity held out her Solar Phone and dialed the number assigned to her by Celestia, before holding it to the air, “I give all that I am to power of the stars! Come forth, Draco Zord!” she turned into a green light and shot into the air, flying into the Draco Constellation, giving it life before it shot down before the monster in the form of the Draconic titan from the other day.

Spike jumped into the air, getting caught in a golden light from the Zord, guiding him to the shimmering green cockpit, “Alright Rarity! You ready!”

Yes! Let’s do this!

“TOGETHER!” they shouted in unison as the Draco Zord’s eyes flashed red. The Draco Zord let out a mighty and enraged roar, clearly spurred on by Rarity’s rage.

Chamaeleon charged at the Draco Zord and slashed with his claws. That seemed to do minor damage at least, but the draconic titan slashed with its much stronger metallic claws, and then whacked him back with his tail.

Chamaeleon rolled to his feet and then lashed out with his now stronger tongue, actually doing pretty significant damage to the Draco Zord, both Spike and Rarity screaming in pain and surprise.

“Rarity, are you okay?!” Spike asked.

Ooooh, I hate this so much!

“Rarity?”

I put you and everyone in danger! All because I couldn’t control my urges!

Spike looked down, “Rarity, listen. I don’t know how bad your hypersexuality is. I don’t know what that’s like period, but this isn’t your burden to bear alone. We’re partners, remember? That means we help each other, with everything.”

S-Spike…

Outside, the Draco Zord looked down, almost mirroring Rarity’s mood at the moment.

“So don’t worry about anything right now. Let’s take this guy out, then we can talk about what to do with your issue.”

Spike, I…

“Whoa! Look out!”

The Draco Zord looked up just in time as Chamaeleon’s tongue lashed out at them. The Draco held up its arms to block the assault as best as it could, but it was clearly still taking damage.

“Somethin’s wrong,” Macintosh frowned, “They ain’t fightin’ as well as last time.”

“Their synchronization is off,” Octavia noted, “That and the Zord itself doesn’t seem as ferocious as last time.”

“Hey thief! Get it together!” Shining shouted.

Cadence simply held her hands together in prayer as Macintosh held out his Solar Phone, ready to call Applejack at any time.

“Rarity!” Applejack cried, watching the fight from the Crystal Heart, “Celestia, I-”

“Stand down, Applejack.”

Applejack turned to Celestia in shock, “What do ya mean stand down?!”

“I, must agree with AJ this time, Mother Celestia,” Sunburst said, “Rarity and Spike are in serious danger!”

“This is Rarity’s fight,” Celestia said, her focus on the battle at hand, “Spike will aid her in finding her inner dragon again. Have faith in them.”

Applejack groaned in frustration, tapping her foot from how nervous she was. At the same time, Sunburst rubbed her back to help her relax as much as she could.

“Rarity, open up to me, please!” Spike urged, “If you close yourself off like this, I can’t help you!”

Spike, I… I’m…

“I won’t judge you, I promise,” Spike assured, “Please. The others are counting on us.”

Outside, as the Draco Zord continued to block Chamaeleon’s tongue attack, it actually closed its eyes and let out a low rumbling growl. Immediately, Spike was hit with a sensation he did not expect to be hit with.

“Whoa!” Spike lurched forward, “So that’s why you were trying so hard to get back to work…”

Yes, that’s the reason... I’m embarrassed to admit, but I’m so horny right now I can barely concentrate…

“Then don’t concentrate,” Spike said, “Let it all out!”

That’s… Spike, are you sure that’s okay?

Spike nodded, “It'll be okay! I’ll guide you! I promise!”

Spike, thank you.

The Draco Zord’s eyes opened and flashed red again, this time glowing. The next time the tongue lashed out, the Zord caught it.

“Noh agaih!” Chamaeleon cried.

Since you refuse to treat me like a proper lady, fine! I'LL JUST BE A DRAGON INSTEAD!!!

The Draco Zord bit on the monster’s tongue, making him scream in agony. It then lifted him into the air, and slammed him down onto the ground hard, and kept doing this for a good while.

“Oh Celestia!” Cadence cried, now hiding behind Shining Armor.

“Well, seems Lady Rarity, found her aggression again,” Octavia said, her calm tone betraying how shocked she was, “Wonder what did it…”

“Hell hath no fury…” Shining muttered, Macintosh nodding in agreement without a word.

When the Draco Zord released Chamaeleon’s tongue, he backed away rubbing it in pain, “My poor tongue! You’re stupid whore!”

“And there you go again,” Spike muttered, “Talking smack about my partner.” he held his hand over the control panel, guiding the Draco Zord forward.

The Zord let out an enraged roar directed at Chamaeleon before charging forward. It then slashed at Chamaeleon wildly, and if one listened closely, they could hear Rarity screaming in rage with each slash.

I! HATE! YOU! I HATE YOU I HATE YOU I HATE YOU I HATE YOU I HATE YOU!!!!!!!

The assault ended with the Draco Zord spinning around quickly, hitting the monster with its tail but not knocking it back. The Zord then jumped up and kicked Chamaeleon in the air with both feet, this time knocking him onto the ground. Before the monster could retaliate, the seemingly feral titan got on top of Chamaeleon and slashed at his face and body. Eventually Chamaeleon grabbed the Zord’s hands, holding it back.

“Gotcha! Now you’re-” the Draco Zord’s mouth charged up with energy, “Oh come the fuck ON!” he then screamed in pain as the Draco Zord fired a green flame out of its mouth at its face.

Applejack and Sunburst were completely dumbfounded by what they were seeing. It was like she went from zero to one hundred in an instant.

“Remind me, to never get her upset,” Sunburst muttered.

“Y-yeah… agreed,” Applejack nodded.

“I’ll admit, I wasn’t expecting it to be this, um…” Celestia muttered, actually blinking in surprise. Both Applejack and Sunburst slowly turned to Celestia wide eyed.

The Draco Zord picked up Chamaeleon over its head and tossed him away onto the ground, “Please, no more…!” he begged slowly rising up, “I’m sorry, okay?! I won’t call you a whore again, so um, can we just call it even?!”

Instead of answering him, the Draco Zord took a deep breath, gathering energy into its mouth.

Ready Spike?

Rarity’s voice lacked all grace and poise, which actually made Spike shudder a bit. Whether in delight or fear he wasn’t sure.

“I think I love this woman,” he muttered to himself before nodding and placing his hand over the console, “Ready!”

“DRAGON’S RAGE!!!” both Spike and Rarity roared. The Draco Zord fired into the ground, and then slowly guided the blast up to the monster, causing him to scream in agony. He fell down to the ground, and then died in a massive explosion. With its enemy defeated, the Draco Zord let out a triumphant roar to the heavens, its eyes still glowing an angry red.

(end song)

The Rangers all looked in awe at what they just witnessed, and then slowly turned to the right, where Chrysalis still stood, with the same dumbfounded expression on her face that they all had behind their helmets. She then slowly turned to the Rangers, staring at them.

She licked her lips nervously, opened a portal, and slowly backed into it, vanishing from the Crystal Empire. With that, the Rangers all turned back to the Zord that still seemed somewhat agitated.

“So, feel better?” Spike asked, hearing his partner pant in exhaustion.

A, bit but, we’ll, need to, talk, later.

Yeah… agreed,” Spike nodded. Just now, he felt everything she felt. Octavia said that a Maiden’s safety was more than just physical wellbeing, right? If so…

Maybe, there was something that could be done about this…

That night in the Crystal Castle, Spike made his way to Rarity’s chambers. She’d asked him to come pay her a visit after they got back to the castle, and after what he saw, he was NOT about to say no.

Pretty much everyone at the castle gave Rarity a bit of a wide berth after the fight. Spike was sure it would blow over soon. He didn’t know what it looked like on the outside, but from the emotions he felt from Rarity, and how ferocious he knew they fought, he wasn’t surprised when Sunburst described it as “fighting almost like a wild animal”.

Spike took a deep breath, and knocked on Rarity’s door, “It’s me, Rarity. I’m here.”

“Come in, Spike,” she said from in the bedroom. Spike entered, spotting Rarity by the window looking out, “So, how bad is it, you think?”

“They’ll get over it in a couple of days,” Spike assured, “So um, about the feelings that gave birth to that.”

Rarity closed her eyes, “I can’t keep doing this. I can’t work, and no one here at the castle is willing to fuck my brains out.”

“Well, I can at least confirm that Octavia would love to,” Spike said, “But, Commander No Fun did his thing, and well…”

Rarity took a deep breath, “I understand why it’s like this. It’s just…”

“Not fair?”

“No it isn’t!” Rarity fussed, turning to Spike, “Yes, I’m the Maiden of Generosity, and yes I’m essentially second only to the Goddess herself, but I… I’m still a woman! I have needs too!” she rubbed her arm, “More needs than most, yes, but…”

Spike folded his arms, “And now, you can’t even work to do anything about those needs. Both because Cadence told everyone in town you’re the Maiden, and because it’s too dangerous.”

Rarity huffed, “Even if the Nightmares are too scared to try it again, I can’t take the chance. Especially since my actions have consequences on those I care about.”

“So, what are you going to do?” Spike asked, “Like you said, most of the people here are too afraid to, and even if you could get a client, it’s too risky. So, do you have a plan?”

“I… do have one,” Rarity looked uncertain, “It’s all riding on one person though.”

“One, person?” Spike asked carefully, his heart racing. There was no way in hell…

“Spike, how far are you willing to go, to keep me safe?” Rarity asked, now looking him in the eyes.

“I’d, do anything,” Spike answered honestly, “I don’t care what kind of person you are, or what you’ve done for a living. To me, you’re still the most beautiful woman in the world.”

Rarity nodded, “I see. Remember when you said that, there’s nothing wrong with getting something in return for, helping others?”

“I, do,” Spike nodded.

“Well, I got to thinking, you’re absolutely right,” Rarity unzipped the back of her dress, letting it fall and leaving her in just her sheer purple lingerie, “And since you’ve helped me so much, I personally think you deserve some kind of reward.”

As Spike watched Rarity continue to undress, his eyes widened. This wasn’t real. It couldn’t be real. He became a Power Ranger on a coin toss! And now it led him to the most beautiful woman he’d ever met, undressing in front of him?!

“So Spike, do you trust me?” Rarity asked, now topless and removing her lacy thong, leaving her completely naked before her knight. She didn’t even bother covering herself. Before answering, Spike pinched his arm to make sure he wasn’t dreaming. Knowing his luck…

Nope. She was still there, and still very naked.

Spike took a deep breath, and walked over to Rarity. He then gently laid her down on the bed, laying in top of her, “It’s a Knight’s duty, to serve his Maiden, right?” he smirked. Rarity smirked right back, but before she could say anything, Spike leaned in and began kissing her neck. Rarity let out a loud moan of both arousal and relief, holding Spike closely as he took care of her. It was a shame that their relationship had to go in this direction, more as friends with benefits than anything deeper, because now she was certain of her feelings.

The greatest thief in the world, successfully stole her heart.