The morning air was soothing to the touch. Celestia’s gentle sun had now risen to its throne atop the heavens, casting a calming warmth upon its waking subjects. Critters and faunas frolicked playfully in the pasture, early-bird laborers prepared for the onset of the new day, and a certain lavender mare buried her muzzle deep into an open book, her horn shrouded in a luminous pink. Having been under the influence of levitation magic, several open hardcovers feverishly orbited and bounced about the pony. Amid this seemingly peaceful daybreak, Golden Oaks Library suffered through the strenuous bustling of Twilight Sparkle’s manic activities. Such a spectacular, temperate morning couldn’t pacify the sleep-deprived librarian, because right now she was too busy speed-reading Draconic Biology.
Titles such as Dragons: An Anatomic Guide and Gambling for Dummies hovered closely to the unicorn, each having been studied fully and thoroughly twice the previous evening. But was that enough for the obsessive-compulsive Twilight Sparkle? Of course not. She had put it upon herself to meticulously memorize every line of text embedded within the appropriate books. And there were more where that came from. Through a careful, methodical process, she had been able to select a total of five specific textbooks to indulge in. Each selection ranged from basic scientific research to betting guides, though they all had been chosen to serve one purpose. One overbearing, excruciatingly stressful purpose: to aid her helpless assistant.
Poor Spike, Twilight reminded herself constantly, her baby dragon had been fooled into partaking in such a maddening game by that Rainbow Dash! He was sure to have his innocent little heart shattered by that immature pegasus! Oh, why did she have to do something this stupid? Spike and Rainbow Dash’s not-so-harmless love game had already gotten everypony riled up for chaos! And such frenzied commotion didn’t appear to be ceasing anytime soon. Not unless Twilight Sparkle did something about it, once and for all.
With this line of thought, the lavender pony toiled tirelessly whilst surrounded by a fort of books and documents. She wasn’t going to stop until she realized the proper solution to this conundrum. It just had to be somewhere within these informational lexicons! Adjusted focus and intellect were sure to become the victors in this horrid game, right? Brains were finally going to win over brawn, right? Not getting a lick of shut-eye to study was worth every exhausting second…right?
“Right?!” Twilight Sparkle thought aloud, her right eye twitching.
As you can probably infer, the frazzled little pony was quite tense. Spike and Rainbow Dash had not returned to Ponyville the night before, and she could only guess that the two had slept over in the neighboring mountains. When first produced, the cyan pegasus’s Sonic Rainboom had given everypony a general idea of their location, though since then nothing else had come to light. Twilight Sparkle prayed that they were safe and away from harm. But the lack of knowledge of her friends’ whereabouts gradually shriveled the anxiety-stricken mare as the night crept on. Surely she’d had less uncomfortable all-nighters.
A sudden knock at the front door pulled Twilight out of her frantic cramming. Acting on impulse, she galloped towards the Library’s entrance, her magically suspended books following closely behind. And after forcefully swinging open the wooden door, she was relieved to find a familiar porcelain unicorn staring ahead wide-eyed, most likely startled by Twilight Sparkle’s haggard visage.
Finally, she was here!
“Rarity, you’re here! Oh, you have no idea how thankful I am to see you!” Twilight Sparkle exhaled in relief, stepping backwards to allow the alarmed unicorn inside. “Come in! Come in! Thank Celestia we set up this meeting last night. Applejack’s too busy tending to foreign residents at the barn, so she won’t be making it. But there’s still a lot we need to discuss and plan for. I’ve been researching all night on ways to help Spike win his bet, and I’ve marked down all the useful tips on a piece of parchment somewhere. Just wait a second. I’ll find it right now.”
No matter the circumstance, before coming out, Rarity underwent her morning rituals. These consisted of a cleansing shower, the grooming of her mane and tail, and the application of cosmetics. Every task had become second-nature to the dressmaking fashionista, and by the end of the procedural an hour always passed. One hour of her precious time was definitely worth a radiant, pristine presentation. So when the suitably made-up, beautiful Rarity encountered the terrifying image of a very unkempt Twilight Sparkle, she was stunned.
And that’s really just an understatement.
“Twilight, dear, you haven’t slept one bit, have you?” Rarity stepped forward cautiously, observing as the hyperactive pony scrambled under sheets of parchment.
“Wait a moment, Rarity. I can’t seem to find my list. Strange, though. It was right here next to me just earlier! It couldn’t have just vanished, right?” Twilight Sparkle ignored her friend, pulling at random sheets of parchment as she gradually panicked. “With Spike not around it’s been a hassle sending letters to Princess Celestia. I’ve been trying to notify her of all this trouble, yet I haven’t gotten a reply. I keep sending them using my own teleportation magic, so perhaps I’m not sending them to the correct destination. Oh, why do I have to make such errors now? Why now?”
“T-Twilight, sweetie, maybe you should rest a bit.” Rarity urged, eyeing Twilight worriedly. “It isn’t a good sign to be this worked up so early in the morning.”
“Rest? There’s no absolutely no time for rest. Spike and Rainbow are out there probably still lashing at each other for this bet, and we can’t do anything about it except for supporting him on the home front.” Twilight Sparkle replied, pointing to the entranceway. “Would you please close the door?”
Rarity did so. “Home front, you say? Why, you talk as if were in some kind of war–“
“This is a war. It’s a war that’s been building up since yesterday, ever since this all started.” Twilight Sparkle declared, still searching for the missing list. Where was that thing, anyway? “You saw how everypony behaved at the picnic site. You were there, Rarity. Did you think that was the last of it? Oh, no. It was only the beginning. Ah, found it!”
Twilight Sparkle held up her glorious list in triumph. “Here it is! Right, the faster we get to reviewing, the better. Their bound to return to Ponyville soon, so we should be ready by the time they arrive– ”
“Yes, I was there, Twilight.” Rarity cut off Twilight’s rambling, taking on a serious tone. “They had all gone mad thanks to Pinkie Pie’s sudden outburst. Oh, that pink pony hasn’t been aiding the situation at all, has she? If anything she’s just been fueling the fire with her ceaseless antics. But I assure you, dear, that the game has changed. Because now I’ve entered this nonsensical little bet, and I’m not allowing anypony to disrupt me.”
“I don’t know why you decided to place a bet. Gambling all the gems in your shop weren’t required to provide support for Spike.” Twilight levitated yet another book to her side, opening it. “But that doesn’t matter anymore. You’re here now, and that means we can finally bounce ideas off each other to help–“
“It does matter. It does.” Rarity bit her lip nervously, straightening her posture. “And I did need to place a bet on Spike. I wouldn’t forgive myself if I didn’t.”
Twilight went silent for a moment. The manner in which Rarity had relayed those last few words caused her to grow more uneasy. It was as if her words were riddled with a deeper meaning. A hidden message only viewable by the sender. Could it be? Was there an alternative incentive behind the white unicorn’s gamble? Because it almost seemed like there was an entirely different motivation for Rarity to pursue Spike’s success. But that couldn’t be the case, could it? She must have understood Rainbow Dash’s actions were irrational. Rarity desired to bring Spike out of harm’s way. That should have been her only reason to aid him.
Twilight’s mind began producing multiple analyses at record rates. Was there in fact another reason?
“Rarity…” She said quietly, easing into her next question. “Why did you place a bet on Spike?”
“Because I know he will win.” Rarity answered immediately, keeping her resolve. “He will win, Twilight. There’s no need for you to worry any longer. All this studying, all your distresses, everything…It will all be over very soon.”
“And why is that?” Twilight tested warily. Rarity wasn’t hinting at THAT, was she? It was absurd if she’d be alluding to THAT.
Rarity bit her bottom lip. Twilight must have realized it by now, Rarity thought. She had to have.
It was apparent to the white unicorn that she wasn’t making an effort to hide her deep-seated motivations. Rarity had known her feelings would eventually be exposed. Establishing this morning’s meeting the previous evening had been the first step to confessing. The second step had been to remain calm throughout the night. She had passed with flying colors, because there wasn’t a single instance in which she second-guessed her newest recognition. In fact she had slumbered rather peacefully. Yet here it was: the third and final step. And this was the most difficult to overcome.
Now was the time to lay out her sentiments in full view. There was nowhere to run, and she didn’t ever intend on doing so in the first place. Because she knew that what she felt was real. It was pure and exciting. It was an inherent truth completely devoid of immorality. It was the very essence of longing, and it was something she had grown to willingly accept. She couldn’t fool herself anymore, and the same went for Twilight. It was necessary for Rarity to lay bare her most heart-wrenching realities. And, in truth, she didn’t particularly mind.
She was actually kind of proud of herself. After so many years of scavenging in all the wrong places, she was able to finally stumble upon ‘it’. She was bestowed with the opportunity to give ‘it’ proper acknowledgement, and she was glad to have been able to embrace ‘it’ whole-heartedly. Ironic, though, that Rarity was only able to spot ‘it’ when Spike and Rainbow Dash’s mess was created. How charmingly comedic, Rarity mused. What a wonderfully witty universe I must be living in.
There was no going back now.
Lifting her head higher, Rarity spoke in great confidence.
“Spike will win because…I love him.”
In a split second every object orbiting Twilight Sparkle fell to the floor. Her horn had short-fused as a result of Rarity’s confession. The loud thuds produced by the fallen books jolted the white unicorn, giving the mare a slight shock to her senses. Though as she readjusted to the environment, Rarity held her post securely. She was equipped for the fight that was sure to come from Twilight. Hopefully it would rely solely on verbal communication to assuage the lavender mare.
“I know you may have many questions on your mind, darling. I understand the confusion you may be experiencing. Though before you say anything, I must assure you…It is true. I am in love with my Spikey-Wikey. I love him for everything he is, and everything he will be in our future. I love him dearly, and I will not allow Rainbow Dash to hurt him. I promise to be his support in all things now and to come. I swear with my throbbing heart that I will take care of him. I love him…” Rarity breathed in soft shudders. “…so very, very much. And there’s nothing you can say that will convince me otherwise.”
Twilight Sparkle’s jaw hung open in dazed astonishment. How could this have happened? How was this reality? Was this not a hallucination brought about by sleep deprivation? Rarity…loved Spike? That was just Spike’s silly dream. It couldn’t have been the truth.
The flabbergasted unicorn stared directly into Rarity’s azure eyes. They held a fortified sternness, and Twilight detected the strength of their spirited vigor. Rarity was serious. For some unknown reason, she wasn’t lying about her passionate adoration for the baby dragon. This confirmation befuddled Twilight Sparkle even more.
So if it was the truth – if it was an actualization governed by the powers of miracles and chance – how could it have come to existence? Not just how, either, but…
“Why?” Twilight uttered in her stupefied state.
Rarity took this question as her friend’s intent to understand her. That was a good sign, at least.
“Why not?” Rarity redirected Twilight Sparkle’s inquiries. “Spike is a fine young gentlecolt. He is honest, sweet, kind and dependable. He learns from his mistakes and never passes an opportunity to grow wiser. He’s shown his strength and determination to protect those dearest to him, and he’s always come out on top to surprise us all. He’s polite, humble and fascinating. His presence is always a pleasure, and I’m grateful to be his acquaintance. And I’m sure I will be something more to him in due time.”
“B-But…” Twilight shook her head, her thoughts jumbled. “Spike’s just a baby!”
“A baby dragon, mind you. His species is known to age much more slowly than ours. I’m sure you’ve been aware of this fact.”
“Of course, but that doesn’t mean–“
Rarity was already prepared for this. “His body may be small, but his love for me is the biggest I’ve ever seen. Spike’s very mature for his age, and I do not really see a problem in my acceptance of his love. For years he’s exposed his affection for me, and admittedly I’ve been blind and stubborn. I never truly comprehended the sincerity of his adoration until now. And now that I’ve had to time to think it all through, I must say, darling, it’s so beautiful. I’m happy to know he loves me, because my feelings are mutual.”
Twilight Sparkle listened. It was an arduous endeavor, but she listened. To listen to these words coming from Rarity’s very own mouth continued to baffle the lavender unicorn. Although she couldn’t deny that they did sound genuine. The straightforwardness of Rarity’s confession had struck her seemingly out of nowhere. She simply hadn’t been expecting it. However, now that it was out, Twilight was given no other option but to ponder. There had to be something else she could ask. Something that could bring Twilight out of her current puzzlement.
Was there anything left to throw out? Couldn’t Spike’s caretaker – his protector and mother figure – come up with a coherent line of offense? Her number one assistant’s life depended on Twilight Sparkle to take action.
After a few seconds of stillness, she concluded her interrogation. “But why now?”
Rarity’s face flushed. That was the question she had been dreading, because while she hated to admit it, she knew very well why her desire for the baby dragon skyrocketed in the past twenty-four hours.
Sighing softly, Rarity lowered her head in shame. “It appears I’m prone to jealously. This bet between Spike and Rainbow Dash has been bothering me ever since I first heard of it. A first I couldn’t understand my discomfort. I thought I was only distressed by the amount of dress orders I’d been made to fulfill. Though I knew that wasn’t true.”
Twilight’s eyes widened. “You were jealous? For whom, though?”
Rarity shuffled her hooves awkwardly. “Perhaps for the both of them. Rainbow Dash was suddenly giving my Spikey-Wikey adulated attention, and he was, in turn, receiving it. The thought of Spike falling in love with her didn’t sit well with me. It was horrifying. I can’t allow Spike’s love for me to waver. Not now. Not after I’ve finally recognized my own mistakes.”
It was an interesting development for the two unicorns. Rarity had realized her love for Twilight Sparkle’s assistant. And that was a story all its own. Though it was at this moment Twilight was able to grasp the situation more readily. If Rarity and Spike did in fact end up together, would there be a happy ending? After witnessing their love, Rainbow Dash would recognize her faults, and she’d inevitably surrender her stake in the bet. Spike would be hailed as the victor, and when all winnings had been handed out everypony would return to their homes. Twilight Sparkle would send a letter to Princess Celestia about what she’d learned, Ponyville would become a safe zone once again, and life would submit to an everlasting state of serenity. Was this the result of a relationship between Twilight’s number one assistant and the Element of Generosity?
As of now Twilight Sparkle didn’t know. The absence of much needed rest and Rarity’s revelation were too much to handle for the poor mare. Yet she couldn’t go to bed just yet. Not while Spike and Rainbow Dash’s bet persisted. Therefore, for Twilight, it was the correct decision to commit to one basic task: help Spike win. And if that meant allowing Rarity to vie for the baby dragon’s heart, she’d do it. Yes, she’d do it…until she thought of an alternative route, of course.
Inside the private quarters of Equestria’s royal figurehead stood two allicorn siblings. Yes, that’s right. Both Princess Celestia and Princess Luna, opposing sisters in almost all things regarding risk-taking, stared eye-to-eye at each other in very different manners. The younger sibling gritted her teeth in aggravation while the older sibling returned a cool, collected gaze. Having swatted away the idea of sleep, an agitated Princess Luna had entered her elder sister’s dormitory unannounced. The moon had already descended and the sun had risen, and now it was time to discuss the issues present. For there were a few concerns Princess Luna believed should be addressed.
Glaring intently at the polychromatic-maned ruler, the princess of the night sharply pointed a hoof. “You have gone too far, Tia! It is true we have placed opposing bets on our subjects, and it also true we are partaking in a game of sorts, but your means of involvement borders that of cheating!”
The princess of the sun smiled casually. “Lulu, I apologize. I am not aware of what you’re referring to.”
“You very well are aware! I can see it all over your face. I know you, sister. Please do not bother attempting to fool me into believing you haven’t been partaking in acts that could be considered punishable crimes!” Princess Luna retorted. “I demand you confess and play fair!”
Princess Celestia giggled. “Please, enlighten me. What exactly have I done that could be considered a ‘punishable crime’?”
Princess Luna clicked her tongue. “You still feign ignorance? Very well then. I shall inform you of your most heinous act.”
Princess Celestia lowered herself easily and took a seat upon the carpeted floor. This was going to be interesting.
“Go on.” She cooed.
Princess Luna despised when her sister did that.
“Yesterday. On the precipice.” Princess Luna marked. “Has your memory not yet been restored?”
Princess Celestia shook her head slowly. “Not yet.”
“How could you not remember? You were there, concealed by the light of your magic.” Princess Luna huffed.
“I do remember being there.” Princess Celestia nodded innocently.
“Huzzah! I’ve got you, sister!” Princess Luna cheered jubilantly. “Now admit your underhanded tactics and surrender appropriately.”
“…Though I am still unaware of my ‘crimes’.” Princess Celestia added deviously, watching as her younger sister’s face contorted. Oh, it was so much fun playing with her.
Princess Luna’s patience grew dangerously thin. “Is that so? You do not recall throwing young Spike off said precipice? I witnessed the horror of it myself! You cannot hide your wrongdoings!”
“Hmmm…’Throwing’ is such a strong word.” Princess Celestia replied nonchalantly.
“You threw him! You tossed him! You flung him over the precipice! It doesn’t matter how one notes it, because you are the culprit.” Princess Luna waved her hooves over her head. “You are fortunate the Element of Loyalty was quick enough to save him. If she hadn’t, I cannot imagine the–“
“Come now, Lulu. You should know me much better than that.” Princess Celestia smirked, keeping her composure. “I would never allow one of my precious subjects to be harmed, especially not on my watch.”
“Then how do you explain yourself? Surely there is no excuse for such dangerous measures!”
“I’d known Rainbow Dash would save him. Fate had told me so.” Princess Celestia winked. “And if it looked as if she couldn’t, I would have been there for him.”
“You speak as though fate is your ally.” Princess Luna grumbled. “You haven’t won yet, Tia.”
“No, not yet.” Princess Celestia pursed her lips demurely, teasing her younger sister.
That was it. That was the last straw for the frustrated princess. Her elder sibling had constantly appeared so mocking to her, especially during their competitions. For all the night allicorn knew it could have been a battle tactic. And if that was the case, it worked. It always worked.
Princess Luna’s pride was at risk of deteriorating even further into oblivion. To lose once again to her elder sibling was a fear unlike no other. There was no way she was going to permit it. Not while she still had a hoof in the matter. If her sister insisted on playing unfairly, then she would, too. As long as she could obtain those bragging rights, she’d do everything in her power to ensure Spike’s victory! Oh, what Princess Luna would do with those scrumptious bragging rights!
As Princess Celestia observed her younger sibling silently scheme to herself, a bright flash of pink magic materialized at her front. A rolled-up parchment tightly wrapped by a red ribbon dropped lightly to her forehooves. Its familiar insignia informed the day allicorn of its sender. How many letters had it been so far? Fifty? A hundred? Princess Celestia had lost count.
“I commend your eagerness, Twilight Sparkle.” Princess Celestia’s horn lit as she magically shrouded the parchment and watched as it disappeared.
Princess Luna had taken notice to this, however. “Why do you not read your student’s letter?”
“There is no reason to.”
And that’s when it dawned on the night allicorn. Twilight Sparkle was also supporting the baby dragon. How did she not realize this until now? She should have known since the day before! This newfound information could be the very key to her victory! The path to success was before her eyes, right in plain view! With this her triumph over her elder sister was nigh!
Princess Luna set about making her next move. “The war is coming, sister. Consider your defeat imminent. If you so choose, you may surrender now. I promise not be to too harsh on you.”
Yeah, right.
Princess Celestia wasn’t roused in the slightest. “Go have your fun then. Your big sister will be here if you need her.”
Princess Luna’s horn glowed ominously, conjuring a teleportation spell. Right now was the time to say something smooth, right before she teleported away. Something that’d stick to her elder sibling’s latent memory even ages after this war. History was in the making, for crying out loud! She needed to think of it now!
Princess Luna’s nose twitched. “Ahh…AH-CHOO!”
In an instant, the night allicorn vanished.
Left in solitude, the allicorn of the sun stood back up and stretched her limbs.
“Oh, Lulu. I haven’t seen you this lively in over a millennium.”
Where did Princess Luna teleport to, you ask? By means of her allicorn magic, the sheer power of her abilities successfully transported her straight to the Golden Oaks Library. Twilight Sparkle and Rarity, who were both indulged in conversation regarding the future, were subsequently interrupted by the instantaneous burst of blue magic materializing between them.
Neither unicorn was given a moment’s chance to speak as Princess Luna finished her sneeze. Startled, Twilight Sparkle and Rarity simultaneously took a few steps away from the fuming allicorn. Unbeknownst to the Elements, Princess Luna was actually angry at herself for having missed the opportunity to crack a wise remark towards her elder sibling. It just wasn’t fair!
“Why do immortals sneeze?” Princess Luna asked nopony in particular, leaving Twilight and Rarity bewildered. “Why did I have to sneeze?”
Twilight Sparkle then realized she was in the presence of a royal Princess. A second later, she and Rarity had bowed their upper torsos to the regal allicorn before them.
Princess Luna finally took in her surroundings. She had arrived in Ponyville for a specific reason, and work was to be done.
The night allicorn placed her hooves under her subjects’ chins. “Rise. There is no need to bow to a fellow teammate at this hour.”
Wait. Hold up…What was that? Twilight Sparkle and Rarity couldn’t have heard that correctly.
“Teammate?” Twilight repeated, confused.
“There is much to do, Twilight Sparkle.” Princess Luna announced. “If your teacher will not assist you, then I shall.”
A baby dragon and a pegasus continued to rest comfortably atop that isolated cliff. By now its two new residents had experienced a satiating sunset, the luminosity of a full moon and the stimulating sensations of a marvelous sunrise. It’s said that these great powers of nature could change lives. Who could refute such a claim? An overwhelming array of lights and hues certainly held influence to the mind and soul. The brain thinks. The soul absorbs. And in the end one’s inner being is transformed forever. So while this is accepted as absolute truth, were two of Equestria’s finest ruled out as the exceptions? Probably not.
Spike didn’t stop caressing Rainbow Dash’s head that morning. He had inadvertently brought himself into a trance just by staring at the pony’s polychromatic mane. His open claw slowly and carefully swam through his dear friend’s hair, still unable to pull himself out of his own enchantment. Though perhaps he didn’t desire to do so. It was possible he just wanted to stay where he was. His sense of time was distorted and muddled. There was no clear past, present or future – as if he had entered a separate void. It was passive yet lucid. Cold yet hot. Empty yet full.
Each tiny finger wrapped delicately around Rainbow’s locks, sliding affectionately to the base of her hairline. He was gentle with her. He knew he had to be. And he appreciated every little nudge the cyan pegasus would send his way. It could have been reflex, or it could have been pure coincidence, but nonetheless Spike could feel Rainbow Dash’s head pick itself up, nestling right into his open palm. Was she actually enjoying this? Spike hoped so.
Rainbow Dash was enjoying it. She was fully conscious, too. Her draconic pal had awoken half an hour after she had, yet she made no effort to strip herself away from Spike’s warm body. It was expected of her to wake up early in the morning. She was a weather pony, after all. It explained her tendency to take afternoon naps, as she’d always felt she’d missed out on rejuvenating sleep. On this day, however, she was happy to have woken so early. Because it bestowed upon her more time to spend on Spike’s scaly little lap. And when he had begun softly coursing his hand through her mane, she was in heaven. She couldn’t efficiently describe the pleasure she underwent just from that simple act.
It wasn’t until a strong gust of wind had unleashed itself upon the two that Spike remembered it was the start of a fresh day. Rainbow Dash knew then that their cuddling had ended. Nature called, and it was telling them both to wake up and go.
“Wake up, Dash.” Spike lightly patted Rainbow Dash’s back. “Wake up. We need to go now.”
“Hngnnnn…” Rainbow Dash pretended to groan sleepily, smacking her lips on cue. “…Huh? What is it, Spike?”
“It’s morning. Let’s finally get back to town.” Spike said, waiting patiently for Rainbow Dash to lift herself off his lap. “You slept well?”
“Heh. You have no idea.” Rainbow Dash smiled, nuzzling her head into Spike’s lap.
That was weird, Spike thought as he observed Rainbow Dash taking all the time in the world to release her grasp on his legs.
“C-come on now. We gotta go.” Spike said nervously, inching away from the pegusus as she stretched her body.
Yawning, Rainbow Dash scratched at her head. “How did you sleep? I didn’t wake you up or anything, did I?”
“Slept like a baby.” Spike grinned, standing.
“Yeah, I bet.” Rainbow Dash snickered, eyeing Spike as he stretched. He really was kind of cute, wasn’t he?
Spike didn’t notice Rainbow Dash ogling him, and he continued stretching his limbs until his energy levels boosted to their maximum. Beaming, he turned his head to face the pegasus, but she turned away for some odd reason. He couldn’t see her face, but if he had he would have found Rainbow Dash blushing intensely. Her cheeks had gone rosy and her eyes squeezed shut in embarrassment. As her chest palpitated ferociously, for a few seconds it almost seemed like she couldn’t even breathe.
Okay, that’s never happened before, Rainbow Dash thought, kneading her face with her hooves. What was happening to her? She was behaving almost foreign, as if she wasn’t really herself. It’s been like this since the day before. Why the sudden influx of bizarre sensations? The pegasus wasn’t able to comprehend any of them, but she couldn’t lie to herself either. Because, truthfully, she wasn’t disliking these feelings…They were just new. She guessed it would take time to become adjusted to them, whatever they were.
Interestingly enough, Rainbow Dash held onto the peculiar notion that everything ultimately came down to irony. Though she wondered what that even meant.
“They’re probably waiting down there for us.” Spike scanned the wide spread of land below. “Hopefully it’s not to capture us again or something crazy like that.”
“Tch. Bring it on. We can take them.” Rainbow Dash hovered by the baby dragon’s side, flexing her forehooves domineeringly. “Nopony down there’s got nothing on us. We’re an unstoppable duo, right?”
Spike chuckled wryly. “Sure, Dash.”
“Why are you always so sarcastic?” Rainbow Dash teased, lightly hitting Spike’s shoulder. “It’s like you’re never willing to trust me.”
“What has trusting you done for us so far?” Spike rubbed his shoulder, laughing.
“Well…” Rainbow Dash rubbed her chin in contemplation. “You trusted me last night, didn’t you? I took care of you, didn’t I?”
Spike blinked. She got him there. Rainbow Dash had sacrificed her own comfort just to give him some peace during their night-stay on the cliff. And she hadn’t complained once.
“You’re right. Because I trusted you I was safe.” Spike nodded, directing his gaze to the pegasus. “Thanks again, Dash.”
Rainbow Dash flushed. “N-no biggie. I had to trust you, too.”
It was now Spike’s turn to flush. “Uh, we’re friends. It’s what we do.”
Friends. This word rocketed at Rainbow Dash’s heart, striking it mercilessly. To be friends meant relying on each other. Friends supported and delighted in one another’s company. The building blocks of a lasting friendship were largely influenced by one’s attitudes, opinions, likes, dislikes and goals. Fortifying the bonds of a friendship depended solely on the efforts and labors of those entangled – those involved. In the course of a day, since the foundation of their bet at Ponyville’s Sunday Farmer’s Market, Spike and Rainbow Dash had undoubtedly grown more attached than ever before. Such was the result of a joined adventure. Discordance and romanticism, magic and flight – disregarding the significance of these past events could be considered sinful.
Spike and Rainbow Dash were friends.
But Rainbow Dash wondered…She wondered…
What did it mean to be more than friends?
“Are you ready?” Spike asked the wondering pegasus.
Rainbow Dash floated down onto the stone precipice, lowering herself. “We have to go someday, huh?”
Spike climbed onto Rainbow Dash’s back, seating himself securely. “It’s now or never.”
Rainbow Dash spread out her wings, preparing her body for takeoff. “Spike, I need you to know one thing.”
“Yeah?”
“Whatever happens out there, just know I’ve always got your back.”
Spike smiled humbly, strengthening his grip on the pegasus’s mane. “Remember that when I call, okay?”
Rainbow Dash stamped a hoof excitedly. This was it. She was ready.
“Don’t worry. I’ll answer.”
Spike's Rainbow Dash
The War Begins (Part One)
How do I efficiently present the record of Equestria’s greatest war? Two opposing sides clashed in battle, and lands far and beyond yielded to confusion and anarchy? If only such a simple statement was the truth. I’d be able to rest in peace if given the chance to retell this tale so modestly. But it’s apparent I’m not here to rest. No, I have taken it upon myself to reach the finale of this epic. Because at the end of this dark, zig-zagging tunnel is a glorious light. A light that once freed those bound by the horrors of jealousy and despair. Its truth set the overarching morale of this ridiculous account, and it’s become my duty to enlighten you all. The story continues, and I admit I’m pretty excited. Because finally we’ve gotten to the fun part.
In the proceedings leading to Spike and Rainbow Dash’s second date, the two halves of Equestria’s finest and not-so finest partook in grand preparations. The first issue to be fulfilled was the mass manufacture of Team headwear. Rainbow-adorned caps were produced and distributed to the members of Team Rainbow Dash. And purple caps with protruding green spikes were handed out to those submitting their allegiance to Team Spike. In the beginning, only a minority of the gamblers agreed to wear these conspicuous caps. Residents from Canterlot found the head attire unappealing and refused to be seen dressed in something so gaudy. Creatures from the Everfree Forest, as most were untamed and independent, despised being ordered to adorn any type of uniform in general. At this Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle grasped their roles as commanders of their respective lineup, and they both pointed out the fact that without a label defining one’s fidelity, nopony would know who to attack and who to support. There wouldn’t be any way to distinguish a member of Team Rainbow Dash or Team Spike.
After an hour-long campaign and numerous discussions, everypony invested in the bet ultimately conceded to Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle’s guidelines. The caps were then donned proudly, subsequently strengthening the sense of patriotism the two teams had established previously. Oaths and loyalties were conceived, enmity towards their adversaries raged amongst the hordes, and a foreboding aura of the confrontation that was certain to come about kept everypony on edge. Paranoia ravaged the minds of the impulsive, resulting in the creation of separate alliances to combat unanticipated assaults. Resources were scavenged for, and each side took the initiative to fortify bases throughout Ponyville. Goods and supplies were collected in bulks and stored away for future use. Unicorns polished their horns, griffons sharpened their talons, pegasi massaged their wings, earth ponies and mules stretched out their hooves, Everfree dwellers oozed an intimidating air, and an all-observant pink pony maintained an ear-to-ear grin.
Our favorite little bookkeeper, Pinkie Pie, never stopped giggling as she hopped about the town and jotted down final bets. Deep down she felt today was to mark a new peak in her party planning career. According to the pink mare, Ponyville’s inevitable clash was actually just Equestria’s biggest bash. Everypony acting so seriously only intensified the festive nature of this ludicrous situation. It was as if they were assisting her with the party decorations.
Nodding her head to the cloudy skies, she eagerly anticipated the arrival of Spike and Rainbow Dash. They were the guests of honor, after all. The celebration was to begin the moment they appeared. And it was proving quite difficult for Pinkie Pie to refrain from seeking out and dragging the two back herself. She really just wanted the party to start as soon as possible.
It was all so silly. Team Rainbow Dash’s objective was to provide a proper, enjoyable date for the baby dragon and pegasus. Yet ruining said date was Team Spike’s main goal. Scootaloo and crew had reserved a small table at the most renowned café in town, and it was their job to ensure Spike and Rainbow Dash made it there safely and securely. Located in the vicinity near Ponyville’s centerpiece fountain – you know, for the ambience – the chic diner eagerly awaited the two customers. The café’s owners were faithful followers of the Rainbow Dash movement, and they were thrilled to play host for the coming date.
Team Rainbow Dash’s job was to give the cyan pegasus enough time to capture Spike’s heart, thus guaranteeing their victory. On the other hand, Team Spike was given a much easier task. All they had to do was continually interrupt any plans made by the other team. They were required to do so until Rainbow Dash forfeited the challenge. Of course, overall neither team would go down without a fight. And everypony, risk-taker and innocent bystander alike, understood this.
The suspense was palpable. Every provision undertaken further exaggerated the atmosphere consumed by oncoming war. It didn’t help relieve matters when Princess Luna informed Twilight Sparkle of the sun goddess’s involvement either. The night allicorn did not go into full detail about her sister’s actions. She left out a few mild specifics, like that of Spike’s near-death experience after being tossed over a precipice. Princess Luna could tell the lavender mare was terribly stressed enough as it was, so she didn’t dare risk breaking the poor little pony’s brain. Twilight’s sanity was a necessity for the night goddess.
Celestia’s star pupil couldn’t accept it at first. Twilight Sparkle’s teacher was supporting another side and purposefully going against her. How could this be true? Why was Princess Celestia aiding Rainbow Dash in her nonsensical ventures, let alone including herself in the bet? Twilight couldn’t wrap her mind around any probable motivations. Spike was just a baby who didn’t know any better, yet Equestria’s ruler deemed it perfectly fine for the dragon to be romanticized by an adult pegasus? What? How? Why? What kind of mad reality had everypony stepped into?
Princess Luna assured Twilight Sparkle that it was in fact the truth. Rarity, having been in their presence at the time, did not show any signs of faltering resolve. She seemed just as determined to be with her beloved as she had earlier that morning. To her, not even a deity could get in the way of her love for Spike. And when she realized this, she was convinced that no matter the circumstance, she’d take Spike home at the end of the day. Her little dragon was to be wrapped closely and snugly in her warmth. Their relationship of love would become officially recognized, and Rainbow Dash would finally back away from what was never hers in the first place. This was Rarity’s plan, and she’d combat any obstacle in her path to achieve success.
Twilight, Rarity and Princess Luna then began forming their own strategies to aid Spike. Once and for all, this challenge would end, and although they were not closely associated with the rest of Team Spike, triumph was still in their sights. Twilight, bothered by having to face off with her personal instructor and ruler, assuaged her doubting judgments through the power of persuasion. This must have been a test set by Princess Celestia. It must have been, right? There was no other reason for the goddess to ignore all of Twilight’s recent letters. The pupil didn’t really understand the test, but it was a test nonetheless…right? Perhaps Princess Celestia desired to see how her student reacted under overwhelming pressure. Maybe the goddess implemented this psychological examination to assess her skills in reasoning. That must have been the case!
You and I both know, though, that Twilight Sparkle was just in denial. Poor little pony. She never got a break, I tell you. She really needed a vacation.
What kind of strategy did the three come up with, you ask? Well, I’ll let you be surprised when the time comes, because now the focus is going back to the stars of this extravagant spectacle.
Spike and Rainbow Dash, the two chief competitors everypony had their eyes on, were finally returning to Ponyville. After having spent an evening together on an isolated cliff, the baby dragon and pegasus had undoubtedly grown closer. Indeed their familiarity with each other was much more pronounced than it was the day before. A special bond had been consummated between the two, but the durability of this particular bond was still in question. How strong was this new connection? Could it withstand the harsh realities of chaos?
Friendship in general has always been inflicted with trials and tribulations, and it is the strongest of friendships that overcome these threatening periods. The conquest of such hurdles leads to development and maturity. And in the end it becomes a force to be reckoned with.
So one may wonder…
Were Spike and Rainbow Dash truly ready for the war?
Was Rarity truly ready to confess her feelings? Was Twilight Sparkle truly ready to battle her mentor? Were the Princesses truly ready to match off? Was Team Rainbow Dash truly ready to breathe life into a budding romance? Was Team Spike truly ready to suck the life out of a budding romance? Was anypony truly ready for what was to come? Was being truly ready even a remote possibility?
Want to know the answer? It’s ‘no’.
Spike’s Rainbow Dash
“I don’t see anypony. That can’t be good.” Spike thought aloud, tugging softly on the cyan pegasus’s mane to grab her attention. “Hey, Dash. Can you see anypony?”
Suspended in the air, Rainbow Dash scanned the settlement directly below. Ponyville was empty and devoid of any life forms. The often bustling town now amounted to nothing more than abandon. It was as if it was suddenly neglected and left in stillness overnight. Only the quiet rustle of a passing breeze resounded, rendering the hovering pegasus chilled. Ponyville was a ghost town. But why?
“I don’t get it. I was all hyped up, too.” Rainbow Dash scratched her head in confusion. “Where did everypony go?”
“I have a very bad feeling about this. I thought for sure everypony would be waiting for us or something.” Spike said, goosebumps creeping up his arms. “So…what do we do now?”
Rainbow Dash shrugged. “I guess we see what’s up. Somepony’s gotta be around somewhere.”
Spike gulped apprehensively. “We should watch how we approach them then. For all we know everypony could be hiding so they can try capturing us again. Actually, now that I’m thinking about it this could just be a trap. I don’t think we should go into town yet. We should just wait and see if anypony comes out.”
Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes. “Come on, Spike. Don’t be chicken.”
“Hey, I’m just being cautious here. We don’t know what’s going to happen, Dash.” Spike argued. “Being impatient can get us into a lot trouble.”
“We’ll be fine.” Rainbow Dash rebutted.
“You say that so easily, but you have no idea how things will turn out.”
Rainbow Dash craned her head to meet Spike’s gaze. Instead of sending him another tease, she produced a gentle smile. Detecting her friend’s concern, she figured consoling Spike would ease his pressures. If it had been a day prior, the spunky pegasus would have continued to badger the baby dragon until he broke under the mockery. She would have forced him to man up and take on the challenges ahead through blatant pestering. Yet at the moment she abhorred the thought of seeing him in discomfort. Spike held no fault in being a bit anxious, Rainbow Dash knew. Admittedly she wasn’t as confident as she would have liked to be either. Though not fully registering the situation never stopped her before. The pegasus was always quick to act first. She didn’t plan on losing to anypony’s schemes.
“It’s going to be okay.” She said calmly, holding her gaze. “I have your back, so you can count on me. Friends don’t let other friends down.”
Spike took a deep breath, pacified by the pegasus’s words. He needed to trust Rainbow Dash, his friend and present partner. If anypony was going to save him in the nick of time, it was her. And if he learned anything from the past twenty-four hours, it was that she would be there for her friends, no matter how dire the condition.
Spike nodded at this, sighing. “If I call you’ll answer, huh?”
Rainbow Dash ginned. “You know it.”
Regaining his fortitude, the dragon slapped at his chest. Everything was going to be alright. As long as he had Rainbow Dash by his side, the two could change the world. Their union was as sturdy as steel at this point.
“Let’s do this.”
That was the only signal she needed to begin her descent. After the two landed at the very eastern edge of town, Spike hopped off the pegasus’s back. They walked slowly through the desolate grounds, taking cautious measure to look about in all directions before making turns into crossroads. A soft eeriness exuded from the seemingly deserted environs. Each building passed presented no hints of sentient activity, which only served to further bewilder Spike and Rainbow Dash. There weren’t any merchant carts occupying their regular spaces, and businesses and centers displayed ‘closed’ signs on doors and glass-paned windows. It was also obvious to Rainbow Dash that no pegasi had come in to work for the day. Because almost every cloud in the sky had infused into each other to form an ominous overcast.
Almost every cloud.
“McCloud?” Rainbow Dash uttered, spotting her number one cloud isolated from the rest of the overcast.
“Who? Where?” Spike looked to the sky, expecting to see a pegasus or griffon. “Who did you see?”
“No, it’s just my…” Rainbow Dash started to say but instead cut herself off. “Nevermind. This is just seriously weird. It’s like everypony disappeared.”
“It’s more creepy than weird.” Spike shuddered. “What do you think happened yesterday after we left?”
“Beats me.” Rainbow Dash said, eyeing the door of a shop. “I’m gonna knock on that door. Stay back, okay?”
“Wait. W-what?” Spike clasped his hands together, watching the pegasus fly up to the door. “Don’t do that!”
“But what if they’re inside?” Rainbow Dash theorized, lifting her hoof to knock. “We gotta find out what’s going on. I don’t like being out of the loop.”
“Let’s just go to the Library then. You can knock on that door.” Spike insisted. “Twilight’s definitely there. She just has to be. Having her answer is much safer than somepony out of their mind answering.”
Rainbow Dash contemplated her options. It didn’t take long for her to come to a conclusion.
“If something’s going down today, then it’s going to happen whether we knock on Twilight’s door or not.” She made aware. “We might as well just get it over with, right?”
“But –“
“And when it happens...I swear I’ll protect you.”
Spike shut his mouth. Why had he yet again second-guessed her? It hadn’t been ten minutes and already he was back to doubting his friend. He had already been reassured that she would be at his aid. She had even made multiple efforts to alleviate his worries with kindness. The baby dragon then remembered what he had thought of the pegasus as they had laid beside the campfire. He had been touched by her many acts of loyalty. And at that Spike realized that through thick and thin, he’d continue to fight alongside Rainbow Dash.
That he’d be the one to protect her.
Rainbow Dash didn’t wait for a response. After tapping lightly on the wooden door, she paused and listened intently for any sounds. To her disappointment, only dead silence followed. Spike stayed mute, partially relieved that nopony had popped out and suddenly jumped the cyan pegasus. Unsatisfied with the outcome, Rainbow Dash flitted up to a second floor window and pressed her snout against the glass pane.
“Hello? Come out!” Rainbow Dash called out, still peeking inside the building. “I see you in there! Don’t think I don’t know you’re in there!”
“You see somepony?” Spike’s eyes widened, surprised. “What are they doing?”
“They’re, like, hiding behind furniture!” Rainbow Dash replied, knocking on the glass pane. “Hey, stop kidding yourselves! I saw you jump behind that cupboard!”
“If they’re inside, then they’re most likely others inside all the buildings.” Spike rubbed his chin, pondering. “But why are they hiding from us?”
“They’re all waiting for the signal.” Somepony from behind the baby dragon answered.
Both Spike and Rainbow Dash were startled by this sudden third party. On instinct, the pegasus immediately put herself between Spike and the newcomer. Who was it, you ask?
It was Scootaloo. A Rainbow-maned cap atop her head, the orange filly was completely alone and appeared strangely excited.
“Scoots?” Rainbow Dash blurted out, stunned. “What’s going on? What are you doing here?”
“Making the first move, of course!” Scootaloo beamed brightly. “I’m rooting for you, Rainbow Dash! I just know you’re going to win the bet, so I rallied everypony up to support you!”
“Rallied everypony up?” Spike repeated, stepping beside Rainbow. “What does that mean?”
Scootaloo ignored the baby dragon. “Is Spike in love with you yet?”
“Eh?” Rainbow Dash’s face went blank, a hot blush attacking at her cheeks. “U-uh…That’s…”
“We’re ending this bet, Scootaloo.” Spike crossed his arms assertively. “So there’s no more need for rallied support or whatever else you guys have cooked up.”
Scootaloo disregarded the baby dragon’s statement. As the official commander in chief of Team Rainbow Dash, she wasn’t going to pay any heed to the enemy. Instead she readdressed fulfilling her original mission.
“It’s okay! We’ve got everything set up for your second date.” The filly said to her hero. “You guys haven’t eaten yet, have you? Because we have brunch reserved for two at the most romantic café in Ponyville, Café Piccolo!”
“Second date?” Rainbow Dash’s eyes caught Spike’s. He was just as shocked as she was.
Spike shook his head at the filly. “Hold on a moment! What second date? We’re not having a second date!”
Scootaloo bounced, her wings fluttering eagerly. “Come with me to the café! The signal’s about to go off! They’re going to try to stop you, but I’ll make sure the Team doesn’t let them! Don’t worry, Rainbow Dash! We got your back!”
“What are you talking about, and why are you ignoring me?” Spike asked, frustrated. “Who’s trying to stop what?”
A strong sense of urgency boiled within the dragon’s brain. Something was not right. Although Scootaloo was the only individual to appear, already Spike was feeling like the situation was losing control. He and Rainbow Dash had returned to Ponyville in order to talk some sense into the eccentric gamblers. But he soon realized how little he and the pegasus actually thought things through. They really didn’t have much of a plan, did they?
It was when he spotted a Spike-capped unicorn pushing her deejay equipment in on a roller that the baby dragon realized how doomed Ponyville was. Vinyl Scratch, wearing her Team’s signature purple and green cap, carried her musical gear onto the grounds a few meters from their location. Two large speakers and a turntable rested on a thin platform with wheels. Once the deejay pony had found her appropriate place, she climbed into her spot at the turntable and placed her hooves onto the vinyl records. Her stoic expression turned into a wicked grin as her horn illuminated a cobalt blue.
“This is for you, Spike!” Vinyl Scratch shouted.
The turntable stylus was then shrouded by the unicorn’s magic, and at the moment it made contact with the disc’s surface, the ‘signal’ had been sent.
It had begun. Because the mixes booming out through those speakers were the wubs of war. Like the bugle alerting its soldiers to charge forward with all their might, Vinyl Scratch’s wubs alerted the bettors of Spike and Rainbow Dash’s arrival.
“They’re coming!” Scootaloo pulled at the cyan pegasus’s hoof. “Come on, Rainbow Dash! We’ll hold them off! But the sooner you get Spike to fall for you the better!”
Rainbow Dash released her hoof from the filly’s grip. “Whoa, whoa. Just give me a moment to think, squirt.”
“There’s no time!” Scootaloo squeaked. “Here they come!”
The reverberations from Vinyl Scratch’s surround sound system reached out to the town in one full sweep. On cue every gambler, hatted for their appropriate team, hopped out, skipped out, jumped out and flew out of their hiding places. Earth ponies and mules burst out of the edifices in heaping clutters, crowding around Scootaloo, Spike and Rainbow Dash. Unicorns took their positions atop roofs, pointing their horns on target at the three. Pegasi and griffons, having been concealed above the overcast of clouds, entered the battleground and circled their prey while suspended in flight. Everfree creatures – such as the Cockatrice, the Sea Serpent, the Ursa Minor, the Bog Hydra, and the Manticore – rushed out from the shadowed forestry menacingly, blockading themselves around the perimeter of the borough. Ponyville was surrounded, and the competitors of their gambles weren’t going to be escaping on their watch.
The entire horde stared hungrily at the baby dragon and pegasus. They pictured a massive pot of bits and precious stones lying at the base of a shimmering rainbow. Their winnings were before them, and they wanted it. Badly. And they were willing to do anything in their power to possess the grand prize.
Spike and Rainbow Dash gave their surroundings a quick scan before looking to each other. Their countenances didn’t sport any indication of fear or distress. Worrying for the worst case scenario was now a pointless endeavor, because it was now the reality. They were trapped, and they were being forced to go on a second date. If they were going to do something, they had to do it right at this very moment.
“TEAM RAINBOW DASH! GET THEM SAFELY TO THE CAFÉ! STOP ANY POTENTIAL INTERRUPTIONS!” Scootaloo bellowed out.
“TEAM SPIKE! KEEP THEM SEPARATED! DON’T LET THEM GET TO THAT CAFÉ!” Sweetie Belle, commander in chief of Team Spike, screamed out from a nearby rooftop.
Spike inched his head closer to the cyan pegasus, whispering. “We need to find Twilight.”
Rainbow Dash nudged the dragon onto her back in a split second. “Then let’s go find her.”
“THEY’RE TRYING TO GET AWAY!” Lyra Heartstrings yelled out.
Spike grabbed onto Rainbow Dash’s mane. “Let’s get outta here!”
“GET HER!”
“HAH! YOU THINK YOU CAN CATCH THE FASTEST PEGASUS IN EQUESTRIA?! CATCH ME IF YOU CAN!” Rainbow Dash barked, adrenaline pumping through her veins.
The first thing everypony saw was a blur of colors rocketing into the heavens. Too bad they were all expecting it, otherwise Rainbow Dash and Spike might have gotten away. Wave after wave of flowing unicorn magic aimed straight for the pegasus, successfully latching onto her rear hooves. One second the pony was gaining extreme velocity and the next she was snagged and put into an abrupt stop. If the dragon on her back hadn’t been holding on as tightly as he had, he would have been flung off like a ragdoll. Dumbstruck, the cyan pegasus struggled against the enchanted forces, flapping her wings furiously. However it was a futile effort.
As pegasi and griffons encroached upon the pair, Spike peered over to the source of the magic and discovered they were being held captive by Rainbow-capped unicorns. He recalled warning his friend of this occurrence, and started to think of ways to release Rainbow Dash from her shackles. Yet he couldn’t come up with a single logical solution. Was this it? Were they already caught? Had they run out of chances in life?
Fortunately for the baby dragon, a certain purple earth pony and her school-fillies had placed their own bets on him. Spike-capped Cheerilee and various foals had strategized a counter-attack that morning, and it was currently in action. In a prompt and organized fashion, the teacher and her students speedily climbed onto the rooftop of the predatory unicorns. They lined up behind each pony, who were too busy keeping Rainbow Dash inert to grasp their imminent fate.
“Alright, my little ponies, like I’ve instructed.” Cheerilee said sweetly.
In an instant the unicorns were tackled by a flood of volatile foals. Wrapping their tiny bodies around the unicorn’s hooves, the school-fiillies knocked over the helpless Rainbow-capped members. Their magical focus broke, and Rainbow Dash was free once again.
Her reflexes kicked in, and she twisted around a pack of bulleting pegasi, dodging their assaults by mere milliseconds. She wasted no time in creating a gap between herself and the rest of the threat, at the same time juking around waves of magic attempting to ensnare her. As she charged towards the location of the Golden Oaks Library, she was suddenly met by a drove of ravenous-looking griffons. The group was mixed with Rainbow and Spike-capped members.
Clicking her tongue, Rainbow Dash glared daggers at the adversaries to her front. She was going to have to somehow get around them – that or she broke through them like a karate punch through a plank of wood. She knew she could do it. She just needed to pick up enough speed and she’d crash right through the wall of griffons. The pegasus was then reminded of the baby dragon clutching onto her back, so she ultimately decided that wasn’t a particularly safe choice. She’d have to hope for the best and use another shortcut.
“Spike, hold on to me tighter!” Rainbow Dash cried over the roar of rushing wind. “We’re getting passed them!”
Spike did as he was told and wrapped his whole body around the pegasus, gripping onto her sides in a squeeze.
Rainbow Dash’s head swam, finding pleasure in the way Spike held onto her taut frame. No, wait! She had to focus! Focus, Rainbow Dash!
“Tighter! I’m not letting you fall!” The pegasus ordered.
Spike pressed himself firmly into his friend’s body, embracing the pegasus as hard as he could. Rainbow Dash let out a cute moan and licked her lips. Oh, that felt good, she thought. That felt a little too good. Spike holding onto her so strongly was a blissful sensation. And it was surging an unknown strength into her that she was happy to take advantage of. She was protecting him. She was protecting Spike…
“Time to rock and roll!” Rainbow Dash shouted.
She was a ballerina dancing on the world’s greatest stage. Rainbow Dash gracefully twisted around the first wave of griffons, spinning into a perfect spiral. She didn’t break the spin and continued to dig into the resistance of sky. After passing over another hurdle of beaks and feathers, the pegasus slowed her gyration and dropped into a free fall, allowing her to narrowly duck under prying claws. Spreading her wings for an easy glide, she smirked at two Rainbow-capped griffons still trying to catch up. Facing ahead, she noticed two Spike-capped griffons heading straight towards her. Oh, this was going to be awesome, Rainbow snickered.
One. Two. And Three! Rainbow Dash barrel rolled over the Spike-capped griffons, laughing as they crashed head first into the Rainbow-capped griffons. Not only did they collide, but they looked pretty stupid doing it! Getting back on tangent, the agile pegasus ceaselessly whizzed past oncoming griffons until they were all fumbling perplexedly to her rear. All the while Spike stomached it, forcing down the rising bile in his throat. All this whirling and twirling was making him sick.
Thinking she was scot free, Rainbow Dash giggled at her achievements. Nopony was going to be able to catch her! Nopony!
She was right about that. No ‘pony’ was really able to catch Rainbow Dash, but perhaps a familiar griffon of her past could.
Two sets of claws slammed into the pegasus’s belly, stupefying and sending her into an uncontrolled ascent. After recollecting her wits, Rainbow Dash hung in place midair and gasped at the sight of a Rainbow-capped Gilda chortling. Her old friend had been the perpetrator.
“Gilda?”
“That’s right. I know all your moves, Dash.” Gilda leered sinisterly. “Those bozos you passed up don’t know you, but I sure do. You’re predictable as always. So don’t even think about getting passed me.”
“Why are you here?” Rainbow Dash asked, eyeing the griffons she had left in the dust flying towards her again. “Aren’t you too ‘cool’ for this? Why bother?”
“There’s a lot of money riding on this stupid bet, and I’m gonna cash in on it.” Gilda replied. “Now get over to that café, sit down with that kid, make out with him, and I can finally get out of this lame town.”
“Dash, they’re coming.” Spike warned, his eyes on the griffons and pegasi closing in. “And they brought friends.”
“Get out of the way.” Rainbow Dash demanded.
“Make me.” Gilda taunted.
“We don’t have to do this.”
“Oh, we do. Because you’re coming with me to that café, even if I have to...” The griffron cracked her knuckes. “…escort you.”
Rainbow Dash tensed her neck muscles, mad dogging her opponent. She was running out of time; the others were going to catch her if she didn’t make a move in the next five seconds. Pushing back her bangs with a sneer, the pegasus gritted her teeth in frustration. There was no other choice. She promised herself she’d never do this unless it was an absolute emergency. And that seemed to be now.
Lifting her hooves to her chest, the pegasus took on a fighting stance. As a black belt in karate, she was confident in her self-defense skills. What she was about to do was purely self-defense, Rainbow Dash assured herself. Not only was she guarding her own livelihood but Spike’s as well. This was it. She was fighting her way out.
Rainbow Dash flexed her toned muscles. “Come at me, bro.”
Gilda snorted and hurtled straight for the pegasus. She was quick. But Rainbow Dash was quicker. Pivoting swiftly, the pegasus coiled behind the griffon and shot a hoof into her back. It wasn’t meant to inflict pain, rather bring the attacker off balance. It did the job, because Gilda was taken completely by surprise and somersaulted wildly until coming to a halt. Humiliated beyond belief, the griffon grew increasingly agitated.
“RAINBOW DASH!” Gilda growled loudly.
An opening had been made for the pegasus, so when Gilda looked her target was already gone. It had also given Spike-capped pegasi enough time to fly up and apprehend the griffon. They weren’t allowing her another opportunity to strike.
“Get your hooves off of me!” Gilda thundered angrily, struggling under the weight of the pegasi. “GET OFF OF ME!”
Thankful she didn’t have to use much energy in the conflict, Rainbow Dash sped onwards. She was almost there! The Golden Oaks Library was in her sights! She and Spike were going to convene with Twilight Sparkle, and all would be right with the world! Somehow…
She didn’t have to think about how, though. That’s what Twilight Sparkle was for, anyway.
“Thank Celestia that’s over!” Spike praised, exhaling.
“I got you, buddy! We’re almost home!” Rainbow Dash said, setting her eyes solely on the treehouse. “Nopony’s got nothing on –!“
A sharp tug on her tail disrupted the cyan pegasus. What came next was her body rotating in the opposite direction she had been facing. What just happened? Somepony had grabbed her and threw her into a tiny spin. It had come out of nowhere!
“What was that?” Rainbow Dash panted.
Hallowed uniforms of blue and yellow materialized in her peripheral vision. Turning her head at the last second, Rainbow Dash choked. The most famous Wonderbolt pair, Spitfire and Soarin’, whizzed pass her snout, dexterously peeling off the baby dragon from her back. Speechless, Spike dangled in Soarin’s hooves and watched as Rainbow Dash became and smaller and smaller. Did that really just happen?
Oh, it did.
“SPIKE!” Rainbow Dash reacted and made chase.
“You got him! Hurry to the café!” Spitfire directed. “She’s going to follow us the whole way! I’ll have you covered!”
“The little guy’s squirming too much! I can’t get a proper hold on him!” Soarin’ complained, juggling the restless baby dragon in his hooves.
Spike wriggled in the Wonderbolt’s clutches. He didn’t enjoy being handled like a toy everypony desired. This challenge had gone on for far too long. Its termination had to be as soon as possible. He wasn’t going to stand for all this nonsense!
“Let go of me!” Spike protested, irritated. “Don’t you get how stupid this whole this is?”
“Calm down, buddy! If I let you go, you’ll fall!” Soarin’ marked.
Falling was the last thing on the baby dragon’s mind. The chaos of the arena he had inadvertently been thrust into was changing him. He wasn’t thinking clearly. Total exasperation was clouding Spike’s reasoning, and his impatience escalated to dangerous heights. Snarling at his own pathetic helplessness, the dragon opted on a risky gamble. Rainbow Dash would be there, Spike reminded himself. She said so herself.
Inhaling deeply, the dragon unleashed a burp of emerald flames, aiming for Soarin’s flank. To Spike’s amazement, the power of the fire persisted against the blowing winds as it burned the pony’s buttocks. Luckily for Soarin’, Wonderbolt uniforms were heat retardant. It was a proper feature bestowed upon Equestria’s military outfits. However, having his bum spontaneously combust was more shock than he could handle.
“HE GOT ME!” Soarin’ shrieked, still holding onto the baby dragon. “PUT IT OUT! PUT IT OUT!”
Spitfire was just as taken aback as her partner. As she patted fervently at the minute blazes, she was exposed firsthand to its resistant strength. The fire wasn’t going out, and she couldn’t understand why. Blowing it out was ineffective, and patting it out was fruitless, so what else was there to do? And then a new idea dawned on her. There was hope! Liquid also extinguished fire!
The Wonderbolt’s pituitary glands went into overdrive, and globs of saliva swished fluidly inside her mouth.
“AGGHHHHKKK!” Spitfire hacked. “P’TOO! P’TOO! P’TOO!”
That’s right. Spitfire was spitting on the fire.
“WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!” Soarin’ whined.
“SAVING YOUR FLANK!” Spitfire yelled.
Literally.
Spike’s plan worked splendidly. Because as Spitfire concentrated on dowsing Soarin’s flank in spittle, they were too distracted to notice Rainbow Dash snatching the dragon from their grasp. As they soared Spike repositioned himself atop the cyan pegasus, hugging her neck affectionately. She saved him, like she said she would
“Thanks, Dash.” Spike said, nestling his cheek into her mane.
Rainbow Dash shivered. Spike’s appreciation was the most she could ask for. The warmth in her heart bubbled lightly, a dazed smile appearing on the pegasus’s mug. She just loved the way he wrapped his small hands around her. If only he held her in this manner more often.
“I’ll always protect you, Spike.” Rainbow Dash muttered silently. “Always.”
Spike felt the vibrations from the pegasus’s throat, but he couldn’t hear what was said.
“Did you say something?” Spike asked.
Redirecting her attention, Rainbow Dash let out a laugh. “Setting his butt on fire! That was genius!”
“Heh. The more time I spend with you the more dangerous I become.” Spike simpered, grinning. “You’ve created a monster.”
“Hah! Isn’t being with me working in our favor, though?” Rainbow Dash made a smooth U-turn, heading again towards the treehouse. “Gotta give me props for that.”
Spike rolled his eyes, chuckling. “Being with you is what started all of this, remember?”
“I’m glad it did, though.”
Spike perked an eyebrow. “You’re glad we’re being hunted by all of Equestria?”
“No. I’m glad that…” Rainbow Dash paused and bit her lip. She needed to say it. She wanted him to hear her say it. Spike had to know how she was feeling. Or at least know a small part of how she was feeling.
The pegasus didn’t yet understand the truth of her passions, though she was fully aware of one thing.
“…I’m glad that we’re together. In this situation I wouldn’t want to be with anypony else but you, Spike.”
Spike felt odd about the manner in which Rainbow Dash had spoken. He didn’t feel uncomfortable, just odd. His brain and heart were sending him ambivalent signals, and he didn’t know how to process any of them. Why had Rainbow Dash used such expressive words? And why did they sound so sensitive? Confused and tired of his brain not giving any answers, the baby dragon elected his heart to take control of his responses.
“I feel the same way.” Spike said. “And as long as we stick together, we’ll definitely make it of this safely. I promise.”
Rainbow Dash smiled warmly. She was the happiest mare in Equestria.
“I promise, too.”
Those bound to the earth avidly observed the spectacle above. Members of both Team Spike and Team Rainbow Dash cheered over each other for their mates. At times arguments would arise and create heated environments, but that only occurred in small, scattered pockets throughout the town. It wasn’t until a muscle-headed minotaur, who had grown upset at the pitiful results of his team’s tactics, decided to take matters into his own hands. Because it was his actions that’d initiate the chaotic wave soon to flood Ponyville.
According to the minotaur, if Team Rainbow Dash wasn’t going to get things rolling anytime soon, he knew he’d explode into a fit. He had bet a whole bunch of bits on that cyan pegasus, and he wasn’t going to be left to twiddle his thumbs while on land.
Iron Will punched his fists together. It was settled then. No more sitting around and hoping for a miracle. It was true Rainbow Dash and Spike were in the sky, but that wasn’t stopping the massive beast from catching them. Oh, no. All he needed was something to chuck at them. He’d always been capable at hitting a bulls-eye. Even for a moving target.
His eyes traveled over potted plants and bells, though he shrugged them off. He needed to throw something bigger…something unique…something unstoppable!
Something like the Cockatrice.
By chance, the Cockatrice had left its post at the western border of town. Yearning to be a fellow spectator, it had entered Ponyville and had a found an isolated spot to slither freely. After the minotaur found the Everfree creature lazily pacing rings in the dirt, he bolted into a sprint and picked it up.
Disregarding the Cockatrice’s crazed squawking, Iron Will wound his arm and locked it, pinpointing his goal. On three, he’d propel the ammunition.
Three.
The minotaur’s nostrils flared in determination.
Two.
His bicep contracted, ready for the cast off.
One.
Cackling brassily, Iron Will roared. “You’re not getting away that easily! Hahah-AGH!”
Before the minotaur tossed the Cockatrice into a volley, he had been smacked in the head by three apple pies. The giant toppled backwards and collapsed to the ground with a thud. Chief Thunderhooves of Team Spike had intended to erase the potential threat, but he failed to stop the Cockatrice from being flung into the air. At least the buffalo had been able to take down the arrogant minotaur before any more harm was done.
Iron Will had lobbed the Cockatrice right when he had tumbled over. So his original aim went into a different trajectory, causing the Everfree creature to miss Spike and Rainbow Dash. The two never realized a Medusa chicken-snake was almost the last thing they’d ever see. If not for the interception by Chief Thunderhooves, they’d have been toast.
Meanwhile on the opposite side of town, a certain caped pony was standing before a crowd of Team Spike supporters. Her hooves raised over head, the Spike-capped unicorn bellowed out to the audience.
“Watch in awe as the Great and Powerful Trixie performs a most spectacular feat!” Trixie hailed. “A feat nopony has yet successfully achieved!”
“What is it, Oh, Great and Powerful one?” Snips asked from within the crowd.
Trixie smirked. “Taking down Spike and –“
“SQUAAAAAAK!”
You guessed it. The Cockatrice landed on the poor little pony, consequently turning her to stone. It had transpired too quickly for anypony present to react. Enraged by the fact that it had been hurled into the air, the Cockatrice’s mythical powers augmented to the point in which a second’s glance meant certain obliteration for its prey. And in this instance the Everfree creature’s prey was the Pitiable and Unfortunate Trixie.
Recovering from the fall, the Cockatrice flapped its wings and exited the crime scene, leaving behind a pony-shaped rock and an unsettling silence. The Team Spike supporters didn’t know what to think of it. Was this an attack from Team Rainbow Dash? It had to have been! There was no other explanation!
“Look what they’ve done! They took her out!”
“Pony down! Pony down!”
“It was Team Rainbow Dash! They did this!”
“We’re not gonna let them get away with this, are we?”
“Team Spike!”
“TEAM SPIKE!”
“If this is how they’re going to play it, then they have another thing coming!”
“We can’t just sit here and wait for them to pick us off one by one! We have to strike back!”
“YEAH!”
“TEAM SPIKE!”
“DETAIN ALL THOSE WHO OPPOSE US!”
“TEAM SPIKE, ASSEMBLE!”
“TEAM SPIKE, CHAAAAAARGE!”
And that, my friends, was chaos’s inauguration unto the throne of Equestria’s greatest war. I guess all it took for everypony to submerge into battle was a mare getting stoned off her flank.
