BOONAGEV

We find ourselves in the continent of Equestria, a beautiful land, divided into 4 major kingdoms, Canterlot to the West, Griffonstone to the south, The Dragonlands to the North, and the Yakyakistan Empire to the East; and in between, many more minor Kingdoms, knightdoms and cities.

For Generations, the land has lived a relatively quiet, peaceful and prosperous period of time… but that all changed when the “Outsiders” invaded Equestria.

The Disembarked on the South-East coast, capturing minor villages and cities in a blink of an eye, and turning Kingdoms and Dukedoms against the 4 great nations.

The speed of such invasion and easiness of the whole ordeal have made all of the, still free, nations, knightdoms and dukedoms, come together to try and create a plan to fight back.

But this is proving nothing so far, furthermore, it has helped to cement the fact that no one was ready for it, and their military ineptitud, and this was helping bigger and more powerful dukedoms and knightdoms to join the invaders as to not be invaded themselves

Out of desperation, the 4 great nations have entered into a common agreement to help each other and stop the enemy.

And so the sharing of resources, money, and soldiers began; for sometime, things seemed to be going well, the invaders had halted their advances and life had gone back to a somewhat more relaxed environment.

But for the 4 great leaders, they all knew something was up, many knightdoms, Dukedoms and cities were still siding with the invaders even after swearing loyalty to any of the great 4, and this concerned them.

It didn’t take long for the 4 leaders to notice a pattern, all of the cities, Dukedoms, and knightdoms that switched sides weren’t the weaker ones, but the richest ones, it seemed like a plan was being put together to isolate the 4 nations, and none of them were willing to let it continue without a good explanation.

And so, with this in mind, every nation, knightdom and dukedom in the alliance decided to send spies into the aforementioned locations, but they were never able to locate anything substantial.

The 4 nations seemed to start to let go of the idea of finding out what is causing the sudden change of heart.

Until it happened, a battalion of the invading troops suddenly attacked the Capital of the Dragonlands Pyromareia, the attack was swift, but it ultimately failed as the invaders were no match for the combined Dragon and Changeling forces protecting the nation.

But it was this sudden move that made the paranoia grow, how did the invaders reach Pyromareia so easily and without rising any suspicions or conquering any of the Dragonlands Dukedoms and Knightdoms before hand.

This caused the other nations to raise their defenses all the way up to 1000, nothing went in or out without someone noticing.

But back at the Dragonlands, the attack had left everyone waiting for an opportunity for revenge, but first, they had to discover the flaws that permitted the attack, the reason behind it.

And after months of investigating and hitting dead ends, finally a lead, but now there was another problem, a problem that seems to be far greater than needed.

DRAGONLANDS IMPERIAL PALACE

“WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS?!!!” said Torch

“We’re trying to figure it out ourselves,” said Ember

“I’ve known Draquus since we were kids, there is no way he just surrendered his Dukedom to the Outsiders that easily,” said Torch

“Well, it does seem too convenient that he changes his mind so quickly after the meeting we had 2 months ago, days after the surprise attack,” said Ember

“My thoughts exactly, I mean, he literally was the first one to ask for us to attack the outsiders,” said Thorax

“Do you think he was just acting?” asked Ember

“If he was, he has gotten better, lad couldn’t even fake a stomach ache, there is more to it,” said Torch

“So… should we go over and ask him?” asked Ember

“Are you daft? The outsider forces would kill us before we even make it to the front gate,” said Torch

“So what are you suggesting?” asked Thorax

“We should send someone especial,” said Torch

“Especially?” asked Thorax

“A mercenary,” said Torch

“We don’t have any left that are that skilled to go in and out without being spotted,” said Ember

“WHAT?!!!!!” said Torch

“She’s right, all of our top ranking mercenaries and assassins are all over Equestria working with other armies,” said Pharynx

“We are the Dragonlands, THE DRAGONLANDS!!! We have the best mercenaries in the whole of Equestria, HOW CAN IT BE THAT WE DON’T HAVE A SINGLE MERCENARY LEFT?!!!” said Torch

“No offense, your highness, but, that’s exactly the reason you don’t have any left. Between you, the Changeling Empire, and the Canterlot Mercenaries, people don’t have much choice, I mean, you guys are more efficient… no offense honey,” said Lemon Zest

“No, no, she’s got a point, we have the best assassins but coming into a fight, we would easily lose against you,” said Pharynx, agreeing with his wife

“So then… Can any of you go?” asked Torch

“Ahem?” said Thorax showing his casted arm

“Oh yeah, your arm is broken… What about you?” asked Torch

“If I leave, who will keep the men and women at bay… would you like THAT to happen again?” asked Pharynx

“So we really have no one?” asked Torch

“No, there is someone… and he will do it for free,” said Ember

“Who? Who is this wonderful soul you’re talking about?” said Torch

Ember turned to look at Thorax, who smiled and nodded as he looked at Pharynx

“Of course,” said Pharynx

“Are we talking about him?” asked Lemon Zest

“Yeah,” said Ember

“Who?” asked Torch

Everyone turned to look at him and the realization slowly sank in

EARLIER ON A FIELD SOUTH-EAST OF PYROMAREIA

“... And that makes 10… only 40 more to go… I can’t believe no one has Pyro-Crystals, I mean, it’s easy as hell to collect them… well, because I have Peewee helping me out that is,” said a certain purple and green scaled dragon

“Peewee, how are we doing?” asked Spike to his trusty companion who was circling around above him

Peewee just chirped as he continued to fly around

“My thoughts exactly… luckily Peewee and I can connect via Telepathy so I understand what he says… but, to the rest of the world, I might be crazy,” thought Spike as he felt something flying at a fast rate of speed towards his head.

He quickly rolled his neck to the left as a rock flew right where his head was seconds earlier, narrowly missing it’s target

“See I told you he’ll evade it,” came a male voice Spike knew too well

“Nice Garble, but you’re still 1 million years to early to get me with that sort of attack,” he said as he got up and turned around.

“HA! You wish, I almost got you,” Garble mocked

“Almost doesn’t help when you’re working,” he said

“Can you stop being such an asshole for ones in your life?” said Maar

“Oh come on, you know he ain’t going to fight back,” said Garble

“Yeah, cause if he did, you’d be dead already,” said Maar

“Listen to your girl Garbs,” said Spike as he got closer

“Spike, I am SO sorry about this,” said Maar

“It’s ok Maal, I’m used to Garble being an idiot,” said Spike

“HEY!!!” said Garble

“I’m only stating a fact, I mean, I was usually the one sent to clean up your messes,” said Spike

“Ha! Please, I am a far better Mercenary than you,” said Garble

“And yet, you’re still stuck as one of mid-table 7th Tier Mercenaries in Equestria,” said Spike

“That’s still much better than you,” said Garble

“Well, taking into consideration that I am a retired 1st tier Mercenary who is notorious all over Equestria and is mentioned in every Military or adventurer academy in Equestria… No,” said Spike

“You said it, RETIRED, I am still active, which makes me even more deadlier than you,” said Garble proudly

“Big words coming from a mercenary who can’t even make a simple arrow out of branches, stone, and rope,” said Spike

“Of course I can, I’ve done it before,” said Garble as sweat fell from his face

“Prove it,” said Spike as he held out the aforementioned materials

“FINE!!” said Garble as he grabbed the material and began to make the arrow

2 HOURS LATER

“DONE!” he screamed

“By this point, you’d be dead, captured, or fired,” said Spike

“Oh yeah?How many can you do?” said Garble as he got in his face

“All of those,” said Spike pointing at the 3 stacks of arrows that could serve a whole Archery battalion.

“That’s impressive” said Maar

“Thanks… now, Garble, I know your brain is highly depleted of neurons, but you still have enough to be considered a living being, so… what do you want?” asked Spike

Garble glared at Spike, before sighing and showing Spike his sword

It was dentented, rusted, and dull, it needed a lot, and I mean A LOT of love and work

“Can you fix it up, please?” said Garble

“Garble, do you know how long and how much use do you have to put a sword, not to mention one of my creations, and not clean it properly, for it to turn this bad?” said Spike

“Yeah, I… I forgot,” said Garble

“I’ll do it… but it’ll cost you,” said Spike

“How much?” asked Garble

“Well, usually this job cost… $28,000, but since you’re my friend I’ll do it for $25,000, deal?” asked Spike

Both Garble and Maal went pail

“That’s… that’s too expensive,” said Maar

“Hey don’t take advantage of the fact the best blacksmith in town,” said Garble

“This job isn’t simple, If you take it to Canterlot, they’ll charge you around $50,000, because they are not used to dealing with this type of material, they’ll just send it to me, so, that’s why I’m giving you that price,” Spike explained

“Oh, come on man, can you give me a discount, just this once, please, we’re tight on money, and with how the situation is going I want my equipment to be ready,” said Garble

“You shouldn’t wait until the last second, and you know that,” said Spike

“Please,” Garble pleaded

Spike sighed and looked around, until an Idea came to his mind

“You see this rock?” said Spike

“Yeah,” said Garble

“Well, I’m running short on it, so, this valley is full of it, but it’s complicated to find it. If you can find 40 of these rocks, I’ll fix your sword up for $15,000, deal?” said Spike

“DEAL!” said Garble as he shock Spike’s hand, took the sample and began to look under every single rock to find the one he needed

“Thanks Spike, but you didn’t have to lower the price that much, I’ll go by after we get some cash and pay the rest,” said Maar

“Don’t worry, 40 Pyro-crystal are worth $10,000 in today's market, and I only need one for the job… so, let him work his ass off, maybe then he’ll get off that high Cheroq (Horse-like creature) of his,” said Spike

“Why are you so nice to us… even after all the hell we put you through?” asked Maar

“Well, I did get the 2 of you together, and I know how much of an idiot he is, so I made up my mind to help your marriage… plus it’s time you start saving money, you should start expanding your family soon,” said Spike

This comment made Maar turn red

“I’ve… I’ve been thinking about the idea… do you think he’ll like it?” asked Maar

“Ask him,” said Spike

“But still, you help us so much, why?” asked Maar

“You know I see you as a younger sister, and even if he doesn’t like to admit it, underneath all that bone-headedness, Garble is actually a kind soul, he just has many self-esteem issues,” said Spike

Mall just smiled at Spike and said

“Thanks… for everything,”

“Don’t mention it,” said Spike

3 HOURS LATER

“Here 50 rocks,” said Garble

“I said 40,” said Spike

“Yeah, but you said you had a shortage of this material, and you took out $10,000 from the fee, I thought it was fair,” said Garble

“Thanks… I’ll have your sword ready by first light,” said Spike

“Thanks man, you’re a lifesaver,” said Garble

“I know… now, I believe your wife has something to discuss with you,” said Spike

“Right!” said Maar as she dragged Garble away “So, Babe, I’ve been thinking that we should…”

“Happy trails… come on Peewee, I’ve got work to do… and it’s getting late,” said Spike as he placed the rocks in his backpack and headed for his shop.

BACK THE PALACE

“HIM!!!... OH NO!!! NO WAY AM I LETTING SPIKE DO THIS!!!!...HE’S… HE’S…” Torch said

“He is the best mercenary the Dragonlands ever saw,” concluded Ember

“Well yes, but…” said Torch

“But nothing, He is the only one who would do it,” said Ember

Torch just stormed out of the room in a fuss to collect his thoughts

“So what crime did Spike commit for your dad to be so against the idea of letting Spike go?” asked Lemon Zest

“Yeah I’ve never seen someone react like that,” said Pharynx

“Well…” said Ember

“It’s not that I’m angry at him,” said Torch as he re-entered the room

“So then?” asked Lemon Zest

“Spike is extremely important to the war efforts,” said Torch

“Well duh, Spike may have retired, but he retired last year, plus, Ember, wasn’t Spike one of the top graduates at your Military academy?” asked Thorax

“Yeah, he was number one… I was number 2,” said Ember, that last part with gritted teeth

“So, what is so bad about the idea?” asked Thorax

“The problem is the Blacksmith shop,” said Torch

“OH COME ON!!! You’re concerned that he lost his touch because of him working as a blacksmith?” said Thorax

“No… You might’ve not realized it, but… Spike is not only the best blacksmith, but the only blacksmith in town,” said Torch

This information hit the three of them like a sack of bricks

“WHAT?!!!!!!!” they all said

“It’s true,” said Ember

“But… But… But I’ve seen more shops selling weapons,” said Lemon Zest

“Yeah, Spike allows them to sell his creations for a royalty,” said Torch

“How did that happen?” asked Pharynx

“Well, after he came back from a job, he decided to open up shop and try some ideas he had to make better weapons, so, worked non-stop for a while, until he was able to make swords that only we as Dragons could use with their full potential, without needing someone to unlock it for us,” Torch explained

“He uses a particular type of metal known as “Pyro-Crystals”, it gives the sword extra durability and makes our attacks 10x more powerful, plus it lets us add fire magic onto the blade without it melting or costing a fortune,” said Ember as she showed them her custom made sword

“So that’s why your swords have those red lines on the blade,” said Thorax

“It almost seems like our “Serpeniite” except that this allows our blades to morph with us,” said Pharynx as he showed them his blade

“Yes well… Spike is the only blacksmith who can create these types of weapons, and subsequently, fix them, so…,” said Torch

“So if he leaves, your weapon production and repairing will be halted,” said Lemon Zest

“That makes sense… and is ridiculous at the same time,” said Pharynx

“What does that mean?” asked Ember

“If this is the main reason why Spike is so important, why doesn’t he have an apprentice or at least show someone how to do the job?” said Pharynx

“Because these weapons are powerful, if, God forbid, we are over runned, and the enemy captures our blacksmiths, if they have knowledge on how to create these weapons, they can be forced to create them, and then the whole war would be shifted in their favor,” explained Torch

“Why don’t we bring some of our blacksmiths? They can create weapons similar to ours, that can balance the odds,” suggested Lemon Zest

“Wouldn’t work,” said Thorax

“Why wouldn’t it?” asked Lemon Zest

“Serpeniite is very different and serves a different purpose than Pyro-chrystals, the sudden change of equipment would be too drastic and would leave the dragons too exposed to an attack,” said Thorax

“You finally get it,” said Torch

“But there has to be something we can do?” said Lemon Zest

The room went silent as everyone tried to think of a solution

“Maybe there is,” said Ember

“We’re all ears,” said Thorax

“We can ask Spike to teach us!” said Ember

“That… is the… DUMBEST THING YOU COULD’VE SUGGESTED!!!” said Torch

“What? Why?” asked Ember

“You can barely make improvised arrows and spears, now you want to create magical weapons, please!!” said Torch

“No, maybe she has a point, Pharynx and I know our way around weapons, we can even make magical weapons, so it’s not such a bad idea,” said Thorax

“But… but your arm,” said Torch

“That’s where Ember comes in, she may not be skilled in the creation of weapons, but she can learn who to make them functional, and help me out while my arm gets better… plus, I miss the old days when we used to run our own forge,” said Thorax

“Ah yes, does were the days… if push comes to shove, we can even teach other local blacksmiths who to do it,” said Pharynx

“I don’t think Spike would like that,” said Torch

“Spike may be our age, but his brain is lightyears ahead, he’ll understand,” said Thorax

“Plus, he retired because he got bored of the job, but, I have reasons to believe this new challenge will spark his mercenary flame back into life,” said Ember

“So it’s a plan… I’ll handle the strategic planning, with Lord Torch and Madam Flame, while you learn the ins and outs of Spike’s… “art”,” said Lemon Zest

“Great idea,” said Thorax

“If you ever need help, just come looking for us,” said Ember

“Don’t over do yourself, honey,” said Pharynx

“My words exactly,” she answered back

“Oh, well, if this fails, I’ll hold you responsible,” said Torch

“Leave it to us dad,” said Ember as the 3 of them walked out of the strategic planning room.

MEANWHILE, AT SPIKE’S FORGE

Spike walked over to his forge and lit the fire

“Let’s get the show started,” he said as he took Garble’s sword and threw it into the forge, letting it melt down until it was liquid.

“Ok, I can still reuse most of it… I'll just spoon out the rotten pieces from the mix… and… perfect… now to melt the pyro-crystal…” said Spike as he tossed a pyro-Chrystal into the forge, letting it melt and then mixing it with the remainder of the sword.

“Ok… knowing Garble, he’ll get into some sort of job he won’t be able to complete without starting a massive brawl… so, I better give him a small upgrade and make his sword double as sharp and triple the durability… for that, I’ll have to unlock 50% of the pyro-crystal’s potential… usually that would cost anywhere around $90,000, but… It’ll be my baby shower gift to them,” thought Spike as he began to pour the melted sword and pyro-crystal into a special mold.

He let the metal harden a little and then he began to pound it until it took the shape of a sword.

“Almost done… now we just submerge it in water… and… perfect… a bit too perfect, this might be the best sword I’ve made… not counting Ember’s custom made Sword, Lord Torch’s Spear, and Madam Flame’s knives… now for the final part, unlocking the 50% of the potential,” thought Spike as he closed his eyes, pressed his left hand on the blade and began to transfer magic into it, the blade immediately lit up with a red glow.

The glow was so bright, it could be seen at the other side of Pyromareia, and the shades to Spike’s forge were closed and sealed.

When Spike opened his eyes, he looked at the sword, it was now magnificent, the red lines resembled live lava, and with some extra magic, it could even be turned into an impromptu torch

“Now for the field test,” said Spike as he walked over to a combat dummy he had created to test his swords.

Spike gripped the sword and swung at the dummy, the sword cut through it like it was butter.

“Perfect, it cauterizes the cut, so there is no blood splatter, this gives the “clean-cut” a run for its money,” he said as he smiled at his creation and placed it inside the now modified scabbard.

“If I’m not mistaken, I requested that you knock before entering my shop,” Spike suddenly said

“”You knew we were here?” asked Thorax

“Yup… now, before you tell me why you came… I have freshly baked Cornbread pastries on the table in the kitchen, help yourselves to as many as you want,” said Spike as he finished up Garble’s sword

“That won’t be necessary… really?” said Ember as she noticed Thorax and Pharynx gobbling down cornbread pastry after cornbread pastry

“What? You have to admit that Spike makes the greatest corn pastries in Equestria,” said Thorax, his mouth full of pastries.

“You guys are so uncommitted,” said Ember

“Speak for yourself, you can eat 25 of these things compared to our 10,” said Thorax

“We’re at 12 right now,” said Pharynx

“That,” said Thorax

“Well… one won’t hurt,” said Ember as she began to eat one after another.

5 MINUTES LATER

“Well… so what do you want to… HOW MANY OF THEM DID YOU EAT?!!!!” asked Spike as he saw the three of his friends sitting on the table, their bellies bulging from the pastries

“I lost count after… 23,” said Pharynx

“Luckily for you, these pastries are actually good for your health,” said Spike as he walked over to them with 3 mugs of ginger ale, which they gulped down so fast, it almost made them seem like desperate hikers in the middle of a dessert.

“Thanks,” they all said

“So, why are you here?” asked Spike

The three of them then began to explain the situation

“So… you want me to teach you how to make my weapons, while I run around Parythea searching for a reason on why Lord Draquus decided to “join” the enemy,” said Spike

“Pretty much, yeah,” said Ember

“No way,” said Spike

“OH COME ON!!” said Ember

“I’m sorry, I’m not a mercenary anymore,” said Spike

“Dude, you only retired last year, plus, your 20, it’s not like you’re too old to do the job,” said Thorax

“I’m not concerned about the age thing, I mean if age were the problem, why doesn’t any of you do it, we’re all the same age,” said Spike

“So then, what is?” asked Pharynx

“It the shop, the weapons,” said Spike

“Dude, Pharynx and I, used to run a forge ourselves, we know how to make magical weapons,” said Thorax

“And I can take over the magic part of the assembly line,” said Ember

“That’s cute… but the truth is, anyone can make a magical weapon, what makes mine better and especial my magic ability,” said Spike

“What does that mean?” asked Ember

“Anyone with a fire affinity can make the sword, but whilst you can make 10 swords a day, I can make 100 every hour, then comes the control issue, pyro-crystals, are unpredictable, so you could easily unlock the 100% of its ability and sell it as a common sword, which would make you lose money and at the same time grant someone unstoppable power,” said Spike

“Wait, you sell this sword, how can people tell them apart?” asked Ember

“I tell them… I only sell swords with up to 30% unlocked power, anything over that it has to be custom made and I have to know the type of person I’m selling it to,” said Spike

“Then, teach me how to do it, I mean, I was second place in our Magic class,” said Ember

“Yeah, with a B+,” said Spike

“Hey, I ain’t no mage,” said Ember

“I know, all our mages are in helping the Academies around the continent with training,” said Spike

“So, I’m the best option,” said Ember

Spike looked at his friends and then sighed in defeat

“Fine, but this knowledge goes nowhere, understood?” said Spike

They all nodded

Spike then motioned them towards the forge and proceeded to create a sword, spear, mace, knives, daggers, and axes, and showed them how to make them durable.

Then he proceeded to show Ember how to enchant them, as to liberate the crystals’ potential, but only up to a 50%

“This is rather easy,” said Ember

“If you have knowledge beforehand, yes,” said Spike

“So, wait, you mentioned that you only retail weapons up to 30%, what about my sword?” asked Ember

“80%” said Spike

“Wow, that’s a lot,” said Ember

“Yeah, I know you well, so I’m confident you know how to use prudence when fighting,” said Spike

“What about my mom and dad?” asked Ember

“Lord Torch 70%, Lady Flame 80%,” said Spike

“Why is my dad so low?” asked Ember

“Your dad uses a lance, anything over that and he’ll have no control over the weapon, and your mom, is a neat freak, even if she was one of the deadliest assassins the Dragonlands have seen,” said Spike

“So I take it you’ll do the job?” asked Thorax

“Would’ve shown you if it weren’t the case,” said Spike as he walked over to his wardrobe and fished out his well known mercenary attire.

Black pants, black boots, a blackish green t-shirt, and his well known dark-purple hooded robe, and his face mask.

“I take it you’re leaving already?” said Pharynx

“Yeah, the more we wait, the faster the clues will disappear, plus, I feel like the forge is in good hands,” said Spike as he walked towards the door

“I’ll contact you when I find something,” said Spike as he pointed to his head, referring to the telepathic ability

“Take care,” said Ember

“I will,” Spike said as he left

NEAR THE NORTH ENTRANCE OF THE DRAGONLANDS

“Here we are, Garble’s and Maal’s house,” said Spike as he knocked on the door.

A few seconds later, a semi-naked Garble opened the door

“Hope I’m not interrupting anything,” said Spike

“SPIKE?! Wow, you scared me, no... what are you doing here?” he asked

“I came to deliver this,” said Spike as he handed Garble his sword

“WOW!!! This is brighter than I remember,” said Garble as the bright red light of his sword nearly blinded him “Thanks… but is it so important you actually dressed up for the occasion?”

“No… I’m about to leave on a royal contract, so…” said Spike

“So, you’re back in the game?” asked Garble

“For now… give these to Maal, ok,” said Spike as he handed Garble a pair of assassin daggers.

“Thanks, but why?” asked Garble

“I have a feeling that bad shit is about to go down… I just want everyone to be prepared, especially the 2 of you… your the only capable mercenaries left in town, and if things escalate, you’ll have to go hunting too,” said Spike

“Thanks, i’ll give them to her… be careful,” said Garble

“I will,” said Spike as he turned to leave

“Happy hunting!” said Garble

Spike only waved back as he walked over to the north gate.

“Well Peewee, ready for the adventure?” asked Spike

“Indeed, I was already missing the adrenaline,” said Peewee

“Ok, hold your feathers, we are a whole days walk from our target,” said Spike

“I know… but there is a small enemy scouting detachment 5 km away from here,” said Peewee

“In which direction?” asked Spike

“North, north-east, near Grogar’s cave,” said Peewee

“Then… let the hunt begin,” said Spike as he started to jog towards the cave.

AT GROGAR’S CAVE

“Ok Peewee, give me a bird’s eye view of the situation,” said Spike as he crouched on some high grass

“Oh Hardy-har-har, very funny,” Peewee said sarcastically

“Just do it… but it WAS funny,” said Spike

“Ok, Here goes…” said Peewee

“2… 3… 6...7, 7 in total… and it looks like the one with the bow is the leader of the operation,” said Spike

“You think they're alone?” asked Peewee

“Doubt it, we’d see more settlements or patrols,” said Spike

“So… how are you going to go about this?” asked Peewee

“Give me a second to think…” said Spike as he noticed that all but 3 of the scouts entered the cave, while the remaining three stayed at the entrance of said cave making watch “Bingo,” he said as he quietly made his way to the hill behind the entrance of the cave and looked down on the 3 men.

“Man, this is so boring,” said one of them

“I know, why did we volunteer for this?’ said another

“That’s enough, both of you, our job is help the scout grant us a way for victory,” said the third

“But, seriously man, we could be at the Coulee fort drinking and having all the women we want,” said the first

“Don’t tell us you haven’t thought about it,” said the second

“I don’t care for those things, I have a wife and 3 teenage children, my life is already set,” said the third

“Yeah, now wonder you’re so boring,” said the second

“If I were you, I’d think that the both of yous have wives and kids waiting for you back home,” said the third one

“So, if they don’t find out, there is no harm at all,” said the first one

“Yeah, plus, I’ve seen some of the whores in the town near the fort, those girls give succubus a run for their money, they’ll bang anyone and anything,” said the second
“You make me sick,” said the third

“Oh, come on, just come to the brothel with us, get 2 of them and have some fun,” said the second

“Not interested,” said the third one

“They’ll last longer than your wife… you can even rough them up a little,” said the first one

“Well… one time won’t hurt,” said the third

“You see, we knew you had it in you,” said the first one

“Don’t worry, we won’t tell your wife if you don’t tell ours, deal?” said the second

“Deal,” said the third one

“Great… I can wait to get back, I already have my eyes on a new one… oh the things I’ll do to her,” said the second as he fantasized about it

“I’ve heard enough,” Whispered Spike as he lunged down towards them.

Spike landed on top of the middle guard, impaling his dagger right through his head, killing him on the spot.

Before the other 2 could react properly, Spike stabbed the one to his left in the chest, right through his heart, and the one of his left in the gut.

He then used the inertia of the move to pull them closer and stab them both in the neck, killing them instantly.

“Who’s next?” Spike asked himself as he entered the cave

Spike crept through the cave, trying to be as quiet as he could possibly be

“Uff… I forgot that crouching around hurts like hell… I should’ve worked out my legs more this past year,” Spike thought

“I told you so,” said Peewee

“Shut up Peewee! Or would you like me to tell everyone about the time you ate fe…” said Spike

“OK! OK! I’M SHUTTING UP!!!” said Peewee

Spike then continued to creep around the cave, in total darkness, until he noticed a campsite, a couple of feet below him

“So, this is where you’ve been hiding,” he said as he climbed down to get closer to the camp and its inhabitants

He was about to strike, when he heard them talking

“... But are you positive?” said one of them

“Yes, I have all the information I need, both here (pointing to his head) and in this notebook, it’s just like he told us, and when we get back to Damarkis Fort, we’ll tell Adara how, when and where to set up the troops to invade the Dragonlands capital,” said the scout

“Hah, who would’ve known that helping out that Prince-wannabe would’ve been so useful?” said another guard

“Yeah, but since we got what we wanted, we don’t need him anymore,” said the scout

“So, as soon as we reach the Coulee Dukedom, we gut him like a fish,” said another guard

“Well boys, time to get ready, we have a long journey tomorrow,” said the scout as he started to pack

“Prince wannabe… Draquus didn’t have sons, he has 2 daughters… who are they talking about?… I have to get to the bottom of this, now!” said Spike as he stood up, revealing himself to the 4 remaining members of the squadron

“HEY!! WHO ARE YOU?!!!!” said the leader of the team

“HOW DID YOU GET PAST MAGUS, FEDIC, AND RIT!!” said another one as they all grabbed their weapons.

“WHAT?!! CAN’T YOU TALK?!!” said one of the guards

“Anyway, he’s just one and we’re 4, piece of cake,” said another guard

“Wait… purple hood, face mask… oh Gods, it’s him!” said the scout

“Who?” asked the guards before being interrupted by Spike

“Your worst nightmare!” he said as he threw the dagger in his right hand at the guard, impaling it in his head

“ATTACK!!!” screamed the scout

But before they were able to react, Spike had already closed the distance and used his sword to quickly attack the remaining 3 members.

The scout tried to run while Spike finished the other 2 guards off, but he wasn’t able to make it far, before Spike threw his last dagger and trapped the scout by the leg, pinning him down.

“ARGH!!!!” he screamed as the dagger began to burn brighter

“It seems… you have information I need… and you’re going to tell me everything,” said Spike as he retrieved his other dagger from the head of the guard.

“Sure, I’ll tell you everything!!!” said the scout

“What are you doing here?” he asked

“We’re planning a massive invasion of the Dragonlands, and we are sketching the landscape,” the scout answered

“Are you the only team?” asked Spike

“The only one that lived long enough… you guys have some interesting fauna,” said the scout

“Back then I heard one of you say that “He” was right in the way “he” had explained the outline of the land… who is “He”?” asked Spike

“I don’t know!” said the scout

“If that’s how you want it,” said Spike as he stomped his other leg, breaking it

“ARGH!!! I SWEAR I DON’T KNOW, I NEVER LEARNED HIS NAME!!!!” screamed the scout

“Describe him,” said Spike

“Tall, lanky, blond with medium long hair, blue eyes, he seemed to be a royal of sorts,” said the scout

“Did he have an accent?” asked Spike

“Yeah… a very weird one,” said the scout

“Pyron, that slimy son of a bitch! He actually did a coup… did he help you plan the “Invasion” of the dragonlands?” asked Spike

“Yes! He said he’ll get us in without much resistance,” said the scout

“What did he ask for?” asked Spike

“To be crowned leader of the Dragonlands,” said the scout

“Did he give you something else?” asked Spike

“Not that I’m aware of I swear!!” said the scout

“Where is he?” asked Spike

“Back at Coulee, possibly at the fort, he things he owns the place,” said the scout

“Well thanks to you, he might as well,” said Spike

“Is this the end?” asked the scout

“For you?” asked Spike

“Yes,” said the scout

“I’m afraid so,” said Spike

“Then… Boonagev, let it be known, I did not die a coward!” said the scout as Spike pressed his dagger on his chest

“What is your name?” asked Spike

“Damicus… what is yours?” asked Damicus

“Spike… I will let everyone know,” said Spike as he stabbed Damicus in the heart, killing him.

Spike then proceeded to grab Damicus’ bow and placed it on his hand to symbolize his bravery in the face of death and not pleading for mercy.

“Was killing him really necessary?” asked Peewee

“He’d be a dead man anyway, if he returns he’d be killed for failing, or be hunted down if ran, plus there was no honor in suicide,” said Spike

“So, now what?” asked Peewee

“To Coulee Fort, I have a new name in my “kill list” and this one’s had it coming,” said Spike

“Are you going to let everyone know?” asked Peewee

“Not yet,” said Spike as he rushed out of the cave and flew towards the fort in question

A FEW HOURS LATER

Spike had reached the outskirts of the Coulee Dukedom, and immediately noticed something… odd

“What is the meaning of this? I thought the city would be desolated,” said Spike

“Maybe the scout the scout lied to you,” said Peewee

“Doubt it, he had nothing to win by lying,” said Spike

“What makes you think that?” asked Peewee

“He knew that if I let him live, he’d be executed for fear of him being followed, and if he ran, he’d be hunted down, either by me or someone else,” said Spike

“Right… wishful thinking I guess,” said Peewee

“Just shut up and SCOUT the area,” said Spike

“Enough with the puns!” said Peewee

“What? Is my sense of humor not BRIGHT enough for you?” said Spike

“I swear, if you keep mocking me, Imma finish you,” said Peewee

“Just do it,” said Spike

“The disrespect is too much around here… Nothing out of the ordinary, city wise, it seems people don’t even know about the coup,” said Peewee

“Well, let’s leave that at that… What about the fort? Any signs of the guards?” asked Spike

“Nothing out of the ordinary… wait a minute… those aren’t the guards from last time!” said Peewee

“What do you mean?” asked Spike

“3 weeks ago, you and Smolder were here shopping for materials…” said Peewee

“Correction, I was shopping, she was stalking,” said Spike

“Besides the point… There is something weird about these guards… like if they’re new,” said Peewee

“Maybe they are,” said Spike

“Then they should know the patrol schedules and positions, they’re all over the place… plus, there is no way Commander Kuskrond would allow such things to happen… not to mention, he’s nowhere to be seen,” said Peewee

“How many guards are there?” asked Spike

“3...8...10...14 in total,” said Peewee

“What about Pyron, do you see him?” asked Spike

“No… WAIT! Yes I see him, he just entered the royal quarters… Also, there is a caravan leaving through the south gate… 3 carriages, 15 guards plus drivers,” said Peewee

“Let’s worry about the fort, if I can liberate it, I can find out what happened, afterwords, Torch might send someone over to take care of the city,” said Spike

You sure he won’t mind you calling him at 6 in the morning?” asked Peewee

“If anything, he’d be surprised,” said Spike

“Oh well… I’ll let you have some fun now,” said Peewee

“Thanks,” said Spike in a guttural voice as he made a run for the walls of the fort and began climbing them.

As soon as he was about to make it to the top of the wall, he stopped as he noticed a light right above him.

“Hello victim No. 1” said Spike as he climbed the wall a little more until he was a simple arm’s stretch from the archer.

“Man, this is so boring, and since the little rich kid drugged the guards, we didn’t have any fighting, talk about let down… WHAT WAS THAT?!!!” he said as he heard someone whistle

He crept towards the edge of the wall and just as he was about to peer over the edge, Spike’s dagger went straight through his head, killing him instantly, letting him fall to the ground, far below him.

“If my dagger going through his brain didn’t kill him, the fall surely did,” said Spike as he climbed over the edge, and ducked behind cover.

The courtyard of the palace was rather empty, he could only see the guards Peewee told him about, and this concerned him.

“Too few guards, were they really able to take over the whole palace that easily?... well if it were me, the less the better, but knowing this palace, there were at least double the guards… So either they didn’t show resistance because they were in on it, or there is something else going on… but for now, I’ll take care of the guards in the courtyard… knowing Pyron, the son of a bitch has more of them inside… Alright, who’s next?... bingo,” said Spike as he laid his eyes on another archer, a couple of feet away, looking into the horizon not paying attention to his behind.

Spike proceeded to creep closer to him, and, as soon as he was positioned behind him, he stood up and Spartan kicked him in the back sending him over the edge, the fall killing him instantly.

“I forgot about this adrenaline rush… I missed it so much…,” said Spike with a smile, he then turned around and noticed that the courtyard was massive and it would take too long to eliminate all of the guards if he went one by one, so an idea came to his mind “Time to introduce myself… again,” he said as he leaped into the sky opening his wings and flying right to the center of the courtyard.

Needless to say, this had caught all of the guards' attention, and they were now rushing towards him.

“STOP, IDENTIFY YOURSELF!!” screamed the captain, who was the closest to Spike

Spike turned to look at him, but all the captain saw, was Spike’s eyes glowing through his mask

“With pleasure,” said Spike as he lunged towards the captain and stabbed him right through the heart.

“You can call me… The Night Dragon,” he said as he felt another guard rushing him from behind.

Spike jumped off the ground, evading the end of the guard’s lance, turning around and slicing the guard’s head off, only to land and stab the guard behind him in the heart.

The rest of the guards stopped dead in their tracks as they saw how easily Spike had eliminated their comrades.

“What? That’s all you’ve got?” asked Spike as the guards moved behind him.

You didn’t have to be a genius to know what they were planning to do.

So as soon as they had encircled Spike, they charged forward, trying to skewer him like a kebab.

Spike waited for them to get close enough, before jumping into the air, causing the remaining 9 guards to almost stabbing each other.

“That was cute, but you fell right into my trap,” said Spike as he lunged back down while turning as if he was a drill.

Spike then landed gracefully on the ground, both his daggers drenched in blood.

“Well, that was fun, but I have bigger fish to fry,” said Spike as he walked away from the group of guards, just as they fell to the floor lifeless.

INSIDE THE PALACE

“Seems I was wrong… there are no more guards here… were they really only 14… the rest must’ve left in the caravan… I’m guessing Pyron didn’t want to draw attention to himself… then again, he sent a letter to Torch… maybe to throw him off for a few days, before more outsiders arrive here… Not on my watch,” said Spike as he rushed towards the main chambers/office to confront Pyron.

He was about to open the doors when he heard…

“Everything is going just like I plan, there is no way these assholes will defeat Torch and his army but they will leave it weakened, giving me all I need to take over the throne… killing two birds with one stone,” said Pyron

Spike was about to kick the door down when he noticed something out of the corner of his eye.

A pair of double swords, swords, Spike knew too well

“Oh no! These are Clump’s swords… was that idiot here?... of course, he was, he is dating Mokthi… speaking of which, where is she?... better take this with me,” said Spike as he took the swords out of the rack and placed them in his bag.

He then crept towards the door, just to hear the last part of another monologue
“... I’m surprised they worked, the drugs knocked everyone out, except for that annoying mercenary that stole my Mokthi… well, with the guards in the dungeon, and Draquus and his family gone, I have nothing to worry, all I have to do is send this letter to Commander Zork and he’ll send his troops… let’s get this party started,” Pyron said as he took the quill and moved to sign the letter when the doors to the room flew open, knocking him out of his seat

“WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS?!!!” he screamed as he got up only for a dagger to fly straight into his chest.

“Hello Pyron,” said Spike as he walked over to Pyron as he slides down the wall, leaving a trail of blood

“Sp-Spike?... what are… you doing here?” asked Pyron

“Ending your little circus,” said Spike as he grabbed the hilt of the dagger and began applying pressure. “Any last words?” asked Spike

“Death… to the filth-bloods!” he gasped as Spike ripped the dagger out of his chest allowing the blood to flow out like a fountain.

“Privileged asshole,” said Spike as he walked over to the table and noticed a couple of letters and reports on it.

He proceeded to read through them and learned some interesting facts.

“Torch is not going to like this… Torch, can you hear me?” asked Spike

“Spike?... Do you know what time it is?” asked Torch

“Yeah, but I really don’t care,” said Spike

“Of course you don’t… So, what is it?” asked Torch

“I have an update on what happened at Coulee,” said Spike

“Oh, what is it?” asked Torch

“SPIKE!!!” Ember interrupted

“Ember, it’s telepathy, no need to scream,” said Spike

“Sorry, but, I really need to tell you something,” said Ember

“Not know Ember, Spike, tell me what you discovered,” said Torch

“As I was leaving the capital, Peewee confirmed that there was a small detachment of enemies at Grogar’s cave, I have taken care of them, I also discovered that they were scouting the area planning an invasion…” said Spike

“We know that,” said Ember

“I didn’t,” said Torch

“Yes, well, about 2 hours ago, Smolder came running into the forge looking for you. She had actually discovered the corpses of the outsiders and ran here thinking something bad was about to happen… needless to say, she wasn't happy when she found us here making the weapons,” said Ember

“Why?” asked Spike

“No idea, but she was rambling on about how it wasn’t fair that we were using your forge to create competition for you, but after we explained, she turned worst, she was now screaming at us, saying that we “stole” her right, but by that point, we Garble came around and took her with him,” said Ember

“Odd, I don’t remember letting her work at the forge,” said Spike

“Are you seriously not paying attention?” said Ember

“If I weren't, would I be having this conversation?” asked Spike

“Anyway, what did you find?” asked Torch

“Turns out there was a coup,” said Spike

“WHAT?!!!” said Torch

“It was a small, yet effective one,” said Spike

“Who is responsible for it?” asked Torch

“Pyron,” said Spike

“THAT LITTLE MOTHERFUCKER!!!” said Torch

“He actually drugged the guards making it easy for the outsiders ot come into the palace and lock them up in the dungeon,” said Spike

“What about Draquus? What happened to him?” asked Torch

“Well, he and his family are still M.I.A, and I have no idea where they could be,” said Spike

“What was Pyron after?” asked Ember

“Power, he wanted to take revenge on Draquus’ family because Mokthi rejected him for Clump… who seems to have been here during the coup and is also M.I.A… after that, he would’ve helped the outsiders reach the capital, wait for us to kill each other for him to waltz right in and take the throne from Ember,” said Spike

“So, he was also after us?” asked Ember

“Yeah, possibly because of your marriage to Thorax,” said Spike

“Why is that his problem?” asked Ember

“Pyron was an supremacist, he thought hated the fact that our race was cross breathing with other races,” said Torch

“That’s why he said “Death to the filth bloods,” said Spike

“And where is the fucker right now?” asked Ember

“Lying dead at my feet,” said Spike

“Well, one problem less,” said Ember

“Yeah, I’m about to head down to the dungeon and… Wait a minute,” said Spike as he walked over to the bed.

“What? What is it?” asked Torch

On the bed was a sword that resembled one of Spike’s creations, but this one only looked like it, it had no magic ability at all.

“Oh no,” said Spike as he hurried over to the desk and rummaged through the papers until he found it “Oh you son of a bitch,” he said

“What happened?” asked Torch

“I found a sword that resembles my creations,” said Spike

“So?” asked Torch

“I didn’t make it,” said Spike

“So, you’re telling me that…” said Torch

“The outsiders are trying to recreate my weapons, luckily this one was done horribly, but if they were able to make it…” said Spike

“They must not be far from successfully manufacturing them,” said Torch

“That explains the shortage of Pyro-crystals,” said Ember

“And the surprise attack, they were after the crystals, not the capital,” said Spike

“How can you be so certain?” asked Torch

“Simple, its written right here… and it was all Pyron’s idea,” said Spike

“This worrisome, where are the crystals now?” asked Torch

“They must have them back at their fort… the caravan!” said Spike

“What?” asked Ember

“When we were coming, Peewee mentioned a 3 carriage caravan leaving, they must be carrying the crystals...and the duke’s family,” said Spike

“Do you know where they went?” asked Torch

“No… yes, there is a report here… one of them is heading to the town of Obsidian, another one to Basalt fort, and the last one to… Scoria fortress,” said Spike

“They are all nearby, to the south, East and North-west,” said Torch

“I’ll get some mercenaries ready to…” Ember said

“No, I’ll take care of it,” said Spike

“Really?” asked Ember

“Yes… they’re trying to recreate my creations, like hell I’ll let them… plus, I kinda missed the adrenaline rush, so,” said Spike

“So?” asked Ember
“Time for everyone to know, the Night Dragon is back,” said Spike as he put his face mask on.