Spike stood patiently before a changeling drone sitting behind a counter. Neither had moved from their respective spots for almost three whole minutes, and the silence between them was deafening. The expression in her eyes was intense, but the drake’s own gaze was just as sharp and full of determination. Showing weakness right now was not an options that he could afford.

The changeling continued to scan his application silently, her vibrant blue eyes poring over every line, as though hoping to find some spelling error or flaw in his resumé, anything to turn him away. She would look up from the paper every so often and glance at him, perhaps sizing him up, comparing his appearance with the credentials he had given her.

At the tender age of 22, Spike had finished his first major growth spurt, and was now twice the size of an average stallion. On top of that, his muscle mass had more than tripled since his days as a dragon whelp. With his increased size, he had come to find walking on all fours to be a preferable means of locomotion. Along with his growth had come some dramatic changes to his body; wings had sprouted out from his back about four years ago had continued to grow along with him since. From the tip of his snout to the tip of his tail he was about nine and a half feet long. Even so, he was, at least in terms of weight and height, quite average for a dragon his age.

“Well...you definitely qualify for the position as far as physical abilities go...” the changeling said aloud.

It was true; his muscular frame put him a rank or two above the stallions in Ponyville in terms of raw strength. It was part of the reason he had applied for the position, after all.

“I see that you have a degree in Arcane History and Literature, too. You were also a scholastic assistant and scribe, is that right?”

Spike pursed his lips. “I...yes, I did. It was several years ago, though.”

“Something wrong?” the changeling asked, noting his expression.

“I’m surprised you’re acting so calm. You’re the first to interview me without asking anything about my diet, or ask if I have any greed-growth issues.”

The changeling nodded. “I won’t pretend to understand what it’s like to be a dragon, but I know what it’s like to be isolated...” She paused for a few moments, then sighed. “Equestria is a wonderful place, despite the difficulties we, as changelings, have faced. Still, I know what it’s like to experience prejudice. I can assure you that you won’t be dealing with any of that while I’m running this place.”

“I...thanks...” Spike said with a grateful smile.

She gave a hum as she continued. “So...Mister Spike, is it?” she inquired.

“Hm? Oh, yes...um...Miss...”

“Colea,” the changeling answered, a small smile finally showing on her lips. “I like the look of your resumé here, but...you don’t really have any work experience aside from a few years of study-aid work, though that seems to be more along the lines of a long-term internship, seeing as you received a monthly stipend from what you’ve written here.”

“No, Miss Colea, I don’t have any work experience,” Spike began. “I do, however, have some experience in crowd control during the Harvest Festival in Ponyville, and I can speak Gryphonic, some Wyrmahk, and even a little Morphelsic.”

“You can speak Morphelsic?” Colea inquired, eyes widening a bit. “That’s...impressive, especially for a dragon. Lots of the sounds are hard enough for ponies to say, let alone dragons.”

“Well, I figured that with how many changelings are living in Equestria these days, it’s only fair to know some of their language if they take the time to know ours, right?”

Colea smiled a little and chuckled. “I can’t argue that. I like your attitude. Not too many are so comfortable around us.” She looked over his paper one last time and nodded to herself, straightening them out and filing them away in a manila folder. “Between your experience working in public events, your language skills, and your list of community service work–very impressive list, by the way–I’d say you’re a good choice for us. If you wish, we could start you as early as today.”

Spike suppressed a sigh of relief. “I’d be happy to! Thank you, Miss Colea.”

The changeling grinned. “Wonderful. Now...while I do have to give you a detailed explanation of what is and isn’t allowed here at the Everfree House...I’m sure you already understand what a big part of our business entails, correct?”

Spike nodded. “Yes, and you have my word that I won’t...create any problems here.”

Colea nodded approvingly. “You’re a quick one, aren’t you?” She hopped down from her stool, put up a little ‘Out to Lunch’ sign on her desk, and made her way towards a door leading into the halls where all the rooms were. “Follow me, please.”

With the desk no longer in front of her, Spike was able to get a good look at Colea. She was rather short for a drone, he noted. Her dorsal fin started at the neck and ran all the way down to her shoulders. Her legs had large porous holes and her skin was made of the same black, pliable chitin-like tissue all changelings had.

As he made his way down the halls, he ignored the sounds of moans and squeaking mattresses behind some of the closed doors. A few changelings, male and female alike, peeked out from some of the open rooms at the sound of his heavy footfalls.

“So, Mister—”

“Spike is fine, Miss Colea.”

She laughed while looking over her shoulder. “Then just Colea is fine with me.” She turned ahead once more as she continued. “While I’m glad you wish to work for us...I’m curious...why do you want to work with changelings? Considering your credentials, you’d probably fit in better at the Canterlot Archives or at the Manehatten Museum of Natural History, don’t you think?”

Ah, there it was. The question he had been prepared for since before he started his application. “Honestly? I think I can relate with the changelings, at least a little bit. Ever since Equestria began taking in changeling refugees from the Badlands...well, you’ve all been doing your best to make it in our country. I’ve had difficulty adapting to pony society too, even though I was born and raised in it.”

Colea gave him an unreadable look, but nodded, urging him to continue.

“W-well...I’ve had my share of trouble fitting in. I almost destroyed half of Ponyville one time due to greed growth.” He saw her eyes widen. “I’ve got it under control, I promise! There’s a public file on it in the Ponyville archives if you need reference on that...but I managed to fix things up, and...well, everyone was quick to forgive me.” He shrugged his shoulders as he continued. “I guess...I just want to make sure you all get that same feeling of belonging here. That and...well, I have personal reasons for not working in Canterlot.”

He heard a few of the changelings eavesdropping on them murmur and whisper to each other. Colea’s wings twitched a bit as she smiled. “I appreciate your honesty and kindness, Spike. Not all of Equestria approves of our presence here,” she chuckled. “I’m glad you’re not like that, though. It makes hiring a lot easier for me.”

Spike felt his lips curl upward into a smile. So far Colea was proving to be a pretty easy-going changeling. He had been worried about how she would react to a dragon applying for a Security position, but so far her reactions boded well for him.

“Now,” Colea began. “The usual hours of operation are from 9 AM until 2 AM. We can talk about scheduling later, but do you have a preference?"

Spike smiled. “I’m willing to work whatever shift. Just as long as you give me time to sleep, that is.”

Colea chuckled. “I’ll make a note of that.” She turned right down another hall, and stopped at the entrance a large kitchen. “This is, in case you couldn’t tell, our kitchen. Since many of us live here, we have to provide our own food as well...aside from love, of course. You’re free to use the space as well, just be sure to clean up after you’re done...oh, and make sure to mark your food; Raxis has a tendency to eat any unmarked lunches.”

“That is a lie, Colea!” shouted a masculine voice down the hall.

Oh, please, Raxis! You still owe me ten bits for that deluxe sandwich you ate a month ago!” added another voice that came from the hall, this time female.

“I said I’d pay you back for that, Fade!”

“Tell that to my coin purse!”

Colea chuckled to herself. “Raxis is a good kid. Just bad at paying off small debts and eating others’ lunches. Not that anyone really cares that much.”

Spike laughed as well. “I take it there aren’t too many company picnics then, huh?”

Colea snorted as more laughter escaped her. “Smart and funny, huh?”

Spike just smirked. “I try.”

Colea shook her head, still smiling as she made her way out of the kitchen and towards a room across the hall. “This is our laundry and washroom. Be respectful of others’ belongings, and try to keep any laundry you bring here organized so it doesn’t get mixed with someone else’s clothes.”

A thought crossed Spike’s mind at the mentioning of clothes. “You know, I can hook you up with a friend of mine in town if you’re interested. She’s the best dressmaker in this part of Equestria,” he offered. “She could probably even give you a business discount if you become a regular client of hers.”

“Ah, you’re talking about Miss Rarity, right?” Colea smiled as Spike nodded affirmatively. “I actually had the chance to speak with her a while back. She’s been especially welcoming towards all of us so far.”

The rest of the impromptu tour consisted of Colea showing Spike the public showers, the dining area, and the residential living room, which also functioned as the meeting room for the employees.

“There’s a bedroom that you’re welcome to have down the hall here...though I’m afraid we don’t have a bed in your size. Anyway, I’m usually awake by eight in the morning, and breakfast is served between nine and ten. Lunch is up to you, and we typically all take part in making dinner.” Colea had finally brought them back to the front desk. “If you have any questions, feel free to ask me or any of our residential staff. I can give you a more thorough tour later after we get your papers sorted out.” She held out a hoof. “Welcome to our humble little establishment, Spike.”

Spike grinned, taking Colea’s hoof in a claw and gently shaking it. “I’m looking forward to working with all of you.”

“As are all of us. Now, before we get you started we’ll need to have you fill out a few documents and—”

“Colea?”

Spike and the changeling in question turned towards the hallway, spotting a changeling who stood about chest height with Spike, making her easily the tallest changeling he had seen since he arrived here. Unlike Colea, her short dorsal fin started just after her horn and ended at the top of her head. She had a sleek figure, and her eyes held an observant sharpness that he had often seen in Canterlot Castle, a sharpness usually seen among the guards. When she met Spike’s gaze her expression became inquisitive.

“Ah, Wisp, is everything alright?”

She looked Spike over a moment longer then turned back to Colea. “Sorry, Colea...we’ve got another case with Blur.”

Colea let out a low groan and uttered something in her language. “For the love of...again?” She sighed deeply, turning her attention to Spike. “If you want, you can get your first sample of what you might be doing on the job.”

“Um...alright?” he replied, unsure how to interpret the situation. “Is it something serious?”

“Probably not, but I’ve had to kick a stallion or tom-griffon out on more than one occasion.” Colea cracked her neck and took on a serious expression. “Wisp, come with, just in case.”

“I was planning on it,” the larger changeling replied.

The trio made their way down another hall, a part he hadn’t been shown before. It was different somehow, but he couldn’t peg what exactly made it different. It just felt different. More...peaceful? Subdued? He wasn’t sure.

“So, what’s your name, stud?”

Spike snapped out of his thoughts and turned to Wisp. She was giving him another appraising look, this time glancing over him with the slightest hint of a smile on her lips.

His cheeks grew hot, and he could not meet her gaze, much to his embarrassment. “Spike...of Ponyville.”

“Oh? You took a second name?” She raised an eyebrow. “I haven’t met a dragon with one before.”

“It’s...complicated,” Spike answered. “I’ve been living in Ponyville for quite a few years now. So...I just sort of took it on. The mayor even signed some official papers approving the second name.”

Wisp hummed thoughtfully. “What brings a young drake like you to this place...or should I say who brings you here?” Her tail swished from side to side, and Spike found himself in dire need of something to distract his eyes from the spot between her two thighs.

“Wisp, knock it off,” Colea said in annoyance. “The last thing I want is for you to scare off our newest employee before he even gets started.”

“Employee? Is that so?” Wisp purred. “Mmmm, well, Spike, I’m Wisp. If you ever need someone to talk to...or someone to have a little bit of fun with,” she wiggled her hips a bit. “I’m always available...well, except when I’m working.” She winked playfully at Spike.

“Erm...thanks...” Spike replied hesitantly.

“No problem.” Wisp looked back to Colea and frowned. “What do you mean by ‘scare’ away? I’m pretty sure we’ve got the opposite problem going on right now, thank you very much.” She stuck her nose in the air and flicked her tail a bit.

The trio stopped at a set of double doors. Spike picked up the smell of incense and green tea coming from within. The doors had wooden carvings of flowers and changelings on it. He could only imagine just how much time it took to get all the intricate little details—

“Come on...just...quick one!”

Spike’s ear frills twitched as he picked up a masculine voice from behind the doors, barely catching what was being said.

“...afraid I...very much...against...personal believings and...the...”

“What? But this is a freaking brothel! How can...say...?”

Colea’s frown deepened and he saw her mouth the word ‘brothel’. She looked to a clipboard pinned to the wall next to the doors and read it over. “Ah, Mr. Sweet Tea. I should have expected as much. He’s been bugging Blur for the past three weeks.”

Wisp tapped her chin in thought. “Wasn’t he the one that Ebon had to kick out?”

“Technically she asked him to leave. He did so after a bit of complaining.” Colea looked to Spike. “Alright, just follow my lead. Hopefully we won’t have any major issues here. Blur is...not what most of our clients come here for...even if they think otherwise.”

Spike didn’t follow. “What do you mean?”

“I’ll explain later,” Colea raised a hoof, knocking on the door three times. There was a bit of shuffling from within, followed by the door opening to reveal yet another female that stood a little shorter than Colea, wearing a dark pink kimono from the looks of things.

“O-oh, Miss Colea. Wisp...I am currently with a client who—”

“Blur...is everything alright, dear?”

Blur’s ears flattened, and her eyes trailed to Spike. She shrunk back in surprise, but quickly recovered. When she turned back to Colea, her voice was nothing more than a whisper. “I...am afraid that is very much not alright...”

“Alright. Let us handle this,” Colea replied softly.

“Thank you much.” Blur stepped aside and opened the door fully.

Spike took in the room, only to pause a moment as he took in the place. The room was easily the size of the lobby, and the decor and furnishings looked more appropriate in a noble’s house than a...place of such business.

In the far corner Spike saw a cozy-looking cot with a blanket and two pillows. Beside it was a tiny stone structure that resembled an oval of sorts with two branches coming out of the top and a heart carved in the center. Across from the cot was a dresser with several beauty products, brushes, and other things that he would expect to see in Rarity’s home, all neatly organized by size and function.

On the opposite side of the room was a small circle of cushions and what he could only describe as built-in stove top. It was small compared to any he had seen before, and didn’t look big enough for any real cooking on. There was, however, a kettle sitting on the surface, thin wisps of steam coming out of the spout. Beside it was a platter full of various hoof foods, small crackers with cream cheese and fruit on them, some kind of green pasty stuff he assumed to be a dip, and even sliced ribbons of sausage, likely turkey or chicken. While Spike’s own diet was namely vegetarian with gems, he did recall that changelings, like dragons, are typically omnivorous.

Sitting on one of the cushions was a dark green unicorn stallion that couldn’t have been more than a few years older than Spike. He had a cutie mark of a glass of sweet tea and a lemon wedge. He looked to Colea, Wisp, and Spike, his face paling considerably as he met the young drake’s gaze.

“I-I’ll just be go—”

“One moment,” Colea spoke, her tone leaving no room for argument. “Mr. Sweet Tea, I believe we had this discussion once before.”

“Well, yes, but I thought—”

“You thought you could corner Blur and convince her to service you?”

“I...” Sweet Tea frowned. “Look, what difference does it make? She gets a meal, and I get to have some fun with—”

Colea was upon him before he could finish the thought, a hoof pressing against his throat and another raised. “Don’t think I don’t notice the marks on her forelegs. Luckily for you she’s a pacifist, otherwise I’m sure she would have beat the snot out of you by now, and trust me, she could.”

Sweet Tea coughed as she released pressure on his neck. He glared at her and stood up. “What the hay is with your kind? First you try to take over our country, then you come to the princesses with your tails tucked between your legs, begging for refuge! You want to have a way to feed on love, yet you won’t work for—”

Colea’s hoof clocked him clear across the jaw, and Spike couldn’t help but wince as Sweet Tea was thrown a few feet to the left before crashing into a chair. Colea walked over to the stallion, lifting him up with a glow of her horn and bringing him eye level with her. “I have had it up to here"—She raised a hoof to her forehead to emphasize—“with you hypocrites! You talk about equality and harmony for all, and then you pull this crap?! Sure, some of you are genuine about it, but it’s the ones like you that...” She exhaled sharply and continued. “Just because we’re stuck with only a few options doesn’t mean we’ll be treated like...like...like dolls or objects to do with as you please!” She jabbed a hoof in Blur’s direction. “Blur is not interested in sex, and she has been more than clear about that with you and everyone else who’s visited her! That aside, she, like all of my house tenants, is free to refuse such services if she wishes!” She pushed him back. “Get out of my sight, and never show your face here again.” She turned to Spike and Wisp. “Escort this stallion from the house.”

“Yes, ma’am,” Wisp replied. Spike quickly recovered from his shock and followed Wisp, who was already leading the unicorn down the hall. When they reached the entrance, Wisp pushed the doors open and nodded once to Sweet Tea. “Beat it.”

“You can’t just let her strike out at me like that and not expect me to—”

Wisp’s horn glowed briefly as she hefted Sweet Tea up off the floor and tossed him out the door. “We’re well within our rights, bastard! We’re not under Ponyville ordinance, and in many cases we’re not even under Equestrian law! We’ve made our policies clear as crystal to you on more than one occasion!”

“That’s a load of crock!” Sweet Tea shouted. “Your building is on Equestrian soil! There are laws against—”

“It’s on Everfree soil, idiot,” Wisp snapped. “The Everfree Forest is within Equestria, but it’s also considered ‘free land’. It’s in the name!” She turned around, making her way back inside. “Don’t come back here, and don’t expect any refunds!”

Spike was about to follow Wisp when Sweet Tea called out to him. “Hold on...I’ve seen you before!”

Spike paused, raising an eyebrow. “Okay?”

“You’re...you’re Princess Twilight Sparkle’s dragon!”

His expression darkened for a moment, an unpleasant frown marring his features. “No, I was Twilight Sparkle’s assistant.” He snorted out smoke as he made his way inside. “Those days are long past me now, though.”

With that, he slammed the door, rattling its hinges and the windows in the front of the building.

“Did he hurt you?”

Spike and Wisp walked in to see Colea gently holding Blur in her forelegs. He began to back out, sensing that this was a personal moment, but felt a touch on one of his claws. Looking down, he was met by a smiling Wisp, who shook her head and motioned for him to go inside.

“Um...is everything alright?”

Spike’s deep voice shook the two changelings from their conversation. Colea nodded to Spike, a small smile on her face. “It seems so. I was just asking Blur if he hurt her.”

“If he did...” Wisp growled out.

“If he did, we’ll go to the proper authorities,” Colea cut her off.

“Pfft, a lot of help they’d be.”

Colea ignored Wisp. “Blur...did he hurt you at all? I see some marks on your forelegs.”

“Oh,” Blur lifted a foreleg, and Spike noticed faint, dark green marks around it. “Well, he was greatly...anxious. Perhaps a little demanding, but he was not of intent in hurting me.”

Spike quirked an eyebrow at her odd way of speaking.

Wisp noticed his expression. “Blur spent most of her life in Hive City. She’s fluent in several languages, but she’s still learning Equinic. For somechangeling who’s only been studying for three years, she’s doing very well.”

Blur blushed, her cheeks gaining a faint, dark green hue. “You are most kind, Wisp.” She turned her attention to Spike. “My apologies, young dragon. Um...what is your name?”

For the first time, Spike took a moment to get a good look at Blur’s appearance. She was of a similar build to that of Colea, perhaps a little smaller. He couldn’t tell for certain with the kimono she was wearing, though. The fin on her neck was much larger than either Wisp’s or Colea’s, leaning to one side a little. Her eyes were of a pale blue, perhaps a bit brighter than the other two.

Colea smiled in embarrassment. “Sorry, I never got a chance to introduce you two. Blur, this is Spike. He’s going to be working our security here.” Colea looked to Spike. “Spike, this is Blur, the Everfree House’s resident ceremonialist.”

“Ceremonialist?” Spike echoed.

“Ah...you are not familiar with changeling customs, yes?” Blur asked. Spike gave her a nod. “As a ceremonialist, it is...” She paused, likely trying to find the proper words. “I am...similar to a...priestess. Yes, a priestess.”

“Oh.” Spike nodded. “Um...what do you do?”

“I supervise many events of great special...um...” Blur turned to Colea, and muttered something in the exotic tongue of the changelings. Colea nodded and gave her a reassuring nod.

“Blur is sort of like a spiritual guide for us. While not all of us are religious, many of us look to her as a guru of sorts, kind of like the shaman of Zebrica or like one of the Wise-Hens in ancient griffon clans.”

“I am...still learning,” Blur mumbled, her gaze falling to the floor. “It is a very demanding duty.” She looked back up to Spike, giving him a smile. “I am happy to meet you, Spike.”

“The pleasure is mine, Blur.”

Blur gave a cute blush. She crossed her forelegs over her chest and spoke something in a hushed tone. He didn’t know what the gesture was for, but he was apparently in good standing with her. That was enough for him.

“Right,” Wisp said. “Well, I got an appointment with the Spa Sisters at four, but they said if I show up early they might have an open slot for an earlier time.” She stretched a bit and cracked her neck. “I’ve had this weird crimp in my shoulder muscles all week.”

“I told you to be careful with that Minotaur,” Colea chided. “They’re bigger than ponies, after all.”

“Hey,” Wisp chuckled. “She was a cute Minotaur. That, and I got to try out that one bull I’ve heard about.” In a flash of green, Spike was looking at none other than Iron Will. She flexed her muscles before shouting, “If it doesn’t fit—!”

“Knock it off, Wisp,” Colea interrupted. The disguised changeling rolled her eyes and returned to her true form with another flash of green flame.

“So, how was I?” Wisp asked as she looked to Spike. “Just like the real deal? Out of character at all?”

“I...only saw him in passing.” Spike cleared his throat. “Though, I’ve been told he liked rhyming. I guess you did pretty good...”

“Well, I guess that counts as a victory for me, then.” Wisp looked to Blur and Colea. “I’ll be sure to pick up some groceries on my way home.” With that, Wisp made her way out of the room and headed down the hall.

“That...I swear, sometimes...” Colea shook her head. “Spike, thank you for helping.”

“In all fairness, I didn’t really do anything.”

“On the contrary; your presence alone was enough. I wish it wasn’t that way, but it’s true. Dragons are strong and powerful creatures, so ponies avoid causing problems with them.” Colea’s smile softened, her expression sympathetic. “It...must be hard, being the only dragon in the area.”

“Well, technically, there’s this one jerk who lives deeper in the Everfree Forest, but...yeah, it can be rough. I’ve lived here long enough that most of the residents are used to me by now, though.”

“I’m glad to hear that,” Colea said, somewhat relieved. “I hate to do this, but I’ll need to file an incident report on what happened. It’ll probably take a couple hours to make sure I can properly cover our collective legal hides in case Sweet Tea decides to try and pull anything. It wouldn’t be worth his time, but still, you never know.” She waved a hoof dismissively. “Anyway...would be willing to start tomorrow instead?”

Spike gave her a reassuring nod. “That’s perfectly fine, Colea.”

“Good, thanks for your understanding. Um...would you also be willing to fill out a form stating what you witnessed?”

Spike just laughed. “I’ve done plenty of record-keeping in my days. I don’t mind.”

Mulberry Road was typical as far as residential streets in Ponyville went. The houses were colorful, yet not to the point of being obnoxiously so. Then again, having Carousel Boutique at the end of the block likely contributed to that.

No one wished to face the ire of a Rarity fueled by a color scheme faux pas.

Spike made his way up the entrance of his abode, pausing as he heard voices from within.

Singing voices, to be precise.

“Bonbon, I need you hee~ere. You’re singing flaa~aat. Again...Laaaaaa~” sung one voice.

“Lyra, you know I’m a horrible singer,” mumbled another.

“Nonsense, you’re a pony. All ponies can sing. Try it with me, Laaaaa~”

A deep sigh. “Laaaaaa~”

“Now; do re mi fa so la ti do~”

“Do re mi fa so la ti do~”

There was a clopping of hooves. “Great! See? Much better than earlier!”

Spike opened the door and was greeted by the sight of two of his housemates, Lyra and Bonbon.

“Oh, hi, Spike,” greeted Bonbon. “How did your job hunting go?”

“I’m starting a new job tomorrow,” he replied with a grin.

“You are? That’s wonderful!” Bonbon got down from the couch, making her way towards him and wrapping her forelegs around him. “And here you were saying that you would be wasting your time.”

“Yeah, yeah, you were right, I was wrong,” Spike chuckled. “Thanks for kicking me into gear.”

“Where are you working?” Lyra asked.

“You won’t believe me if I told you.”

Lyra quirked an eyebrow as she walked towards him, stopping when she was past what most would consider to be a comfortable distance. For several seconds she simply frowned at him with a hint of suspicion while Bonbon stood aside, unsure what to do.

The quirky mare was hard to gauge, even when it came to her long time marefriend.

Spike suddenly stepped back as Lyra got onto her hind legs and took a few more steps forward, her snout now inches from his. She gave him a scrutinizing look and whispered in an accusingly. “You’re not working as a hitpony, are you?” She leaned forward, her snout bumping against his.

“What? No, no...geesh, Lyra, give me some credit here!” Spike shook his head. “You have to stop going to the theaters so much. Those movies are getting to your head. Anyway, no, I’m not a hitpony...”

“Oh!” Lyra dropped down to all fours, and smiled. “I didn’t think so, but I’m just saying, if you were, we’d have the right to know. You know, seeing as we pay half of the bills every month.”

“Lyra...”

“What? Bonbon, come on, you know he’d be a great hitpony.”

“Actually, I think I’d be a hit...drake? Maybe?” Spike suggested.

“Well...” the unicorn paused for a moment. “Yeah, I guess, but still, you’d be awesome.”

“Um...thanks?”

“Don’t mention it.” Lyra nodded. “So, where are you actually working, then?”

Spike shrugged. “That new place outside of town. The Everfree House.”

“What?!”

“Sweet!”

“Lyra!”

“What?!”

Spike looked between the two mares, one grinning while the other wore a look of disbelief on her face. After staring at each other for a moment, they returned their gazes to Spike.

Bonbon spoke first. “Why...but...that place is...a house of ill repute.”

“Oh come on, Bonbon. They were legitimate businesses back during Equestrian Renaissance, for pony’s sake,” Lyra groaned.

“Yes, then everypony started getting warts in places where the sun won’t shine,” Bonbon deadpanned.

“Hey, they got regulations and restrictions on how they go about that stuff these days. Employees at the Everfree House get check-ups every week,” Spike said.

“What about customers, though? I doubt they go through the same check-ups every time they go through.”

“State-of-the-art detection wards set up all throughout the place. If anypony, griffon, or some other creature has a...well, something that somepony wouldn’t want to catch, the staff will know, and discreetly ask them to leave.”

“Oh...that’s a bit intrusive, but I guess if it’s for the sake of everypony’s health,” Bonbon let out an exasperated sigh. “Still...it’s not just that. I mean, aren’t there changelings working there?”

Spike frowned. “What about them?”

She shrunk back at Spike’s gaze. “I-I’m not saying that’s a bad thing, but...I guess I’m just worried about you. Not everypony approves of them in Equestria, you know...and I don’t like the idea of you getting caught up in anything.” Her gaze hardened a bit. “What are you doing there, exactly?”

“I’ll be working as Security staff. Mostly patrolling the bar and the suites, making sure everything is alright...” Spike waved a claw. “Security stuff.”

Bonbon relaxed a bit. “Security? Ah, heh, of course...of course.”

Lyra smirked. “You were picturing him working as a service drake, weren’t you?”

“N-no!” Bonbon snapped. “I...ugh, Lyra, sometimes...” She shook her head, forcing a smile for Spike. “I’m glad you found some place to work. I...well, it wouldn’t be my first choice of work—”

“I wouldn’t be opposed to it.”

“...”

Lyra shrunk back at Bonbon’s gaze. “Whaaat? Bonbon, don’t look at me like that,” Lyra chuckled weakly.

“As I was saying,” Bonbon continued. “I’m happy you found somewhere to work. Just...be careful. Security work in a place like that is probably not as easy as you might think.”

“Not to mention you’re right next to the Everfree Forest,” Lyra added.

“Oh my gosh, you’re right!” Bonbon gasped. Spike shot Lyra an annoyed look as she smiled sheepishly. “Spike, are you sure this is a good idea? I mean, think of the Timberwolves, Manticores, and Cockatrices that live in that horrible place.”

“Fluttershy lives near the forest, and Zecora actually lived within it. Neither of them have many problems from what I understand,” Spike defended. “I appreciate your concern, though.”

Bonbon opened her mouth to argue further, only to be cut off by Lyra. “Bonbon, Spike’s a big boy. Let him make his own choices, alright?”

“I...” Bonbon flushed a bit in the cheeks as she gave Spike what she hoped was an apologetic smile. “I guess it’s hard to forget about the little guy you were not too long ago...”

“Heh,” Spike lowered his head a little as Bonbon walked towards him. “I’ll be careful, Bonbon. Only because you asked, though.”

Bonbon nuzzled his cheek. “You better, otherwise I’ll get Scootaloo to make you promise.”

Lyra snickered. “Considering her methods, I’m sure Spike wouldn’t mind.”

Bonbon frowned at Lyra as Spike’s cheeks turned beet red. “I swear, what am I going to do with you, Lyra?”

“I don’t know, but I’m sure Scootaloo could give you a few tips.”

Lyra laughed as she made her way into the kitchen, likely to prepare dinner. Bonbon patted Spike’s face sympathetically as he tried to hide his embarrassment.

“Are we really that bad?”

“Well,” Bonbon began. “Lyra and I...did get woken up by you two. O-only three times, I swear!”

Spike covered his face with a hand. “I am so sorry...”

Bonbon chewed her bottom lip, avoiding further comment. The last thing Spike probably wanted to hear was that she and Lyra didn’t mind the extra noise their two housemates made every so often...and sometimes even looked forward to it.

Fwump!

Spike cracked open an eye. Faint rays of moonlight filtered through the blinds of the otherwise dark room. He rolled over to face the bedroom door, spotting a familiar and decidedly equine shape at the entrance. His eyes quickly adjusted to the dark, and he was able to make out the fine, athletic figure of the pony.

The pony shrugged off a second large saddlebag and dropped it to the ground.

Fwump!

Spike breathed deeply, alerting the newcomer that he was awake. “Hey, Scoot. How was work?”

The young mare chuckled, a scratchy, yet feminine, sound. “You ever wonder how Cloudsdale’s weather factory gets all its schedules out to the general public?”

“Not really, no. Why?”

“Well, I was in charge of distributing the last-minute revised schedules for the next two weeks to about fifty different villages, towns, and suburbs in the Equestrian Valley, including Ponyville and Canterlot,” she answered. “A fifteen-hour work-day...but the overtime will be worth it when I get paid.”

“Going to spend it on more training weights and those protein shakes, aren’t you?” Spike let out a weak chuckle as Scootaloo stuck her tongue out at him. “Geesh, how much do they strap on you these days? Seventy pounds each?”

“Usually between sixty-five to eighty-two pounds, each of them.” Scootaloo nudged the pack next to her with a hoof. “I can handle it, sure, but it’s nothing to trifle with; flying with that big of a load all around the Equestrian Valley is dangerous. Luckily, these two are easily some of the strongest babies out there.” She gave a nod to the pair of wings on her back as they spread out, extending to their full length.

Spike watched as her powerful shoulder muscles flexed. Even in the dim light, he could make out the smooth curvature of her body as she gave her wings a few more hard flaps, stretching out the fatigue she had built up over the course of the day.

“You know...believe it or not, I’m not really tired right now,” Scootaloo began as she looked over her shoulder, her gaze meeting Spike’s. Her tail whipped from side to side a bit as a smirk spread across her lips.

“You don’t say...” Spike replied, his gaze transfixed on her flanks.

“Mmhmm. I’m kind of restless right now.” She stretched out her back like a cat, wings flaring out fully. “Think you could help me?”

“I could...”

Scootaloo turned around, putting a bit of sashay into her step as she approached him. “So...what do you think we do about it?”

Snapping out of his trance, the drake grinned. He leaned forward and planted a few kisses along Scootaloo’s neck, causing the young mare to moan softly. He stroked her mane gently with one of his claws, barely grazing the skin of her coat every so often. She shuddered at the contact and pulled away to catch her breath.

“You okay?”

Scootaloo laughed. “Just fine. It’s just...you know how I am after a long day of work.”

Spike wrapped an arm around her frame, gently pulling her closer and scooping her up so that she was resting on his chest and their faces were only a breath away from each other. He continued to run his hand over her mane, venturing a bit further every so often. He chuckled softly as her wings shot up when he stroked her shoulder muscles.

“Sh-shut up,” she mumbled weakly.

It had always been a bit of an inside-joke between them. Her wings responded almost instantly to any sensual touch. Apparently, pegasi considered it to be rather embarrassing, but he found it adorable.

“I didn’t say anything,” he whispered softly.

Not one to be outdone, Scootaloo leaned forward and met Spike’s lips with hers. Their tongues danced as they let out steamy breaths, eyes closed as they gave into the sense of touch completely. Every so often Scootaloo would whimper in pleasure as she felt Spike’s hands gently squeeze her derriere.

“S-Spike...can you...?” She let out another moan as his tongue began trailing down her neck. “Spike, please...!”

Understanding her perfectly, Spike placed a single digit against her slit, noting with a small amount of pride that she was already wet. He kissed her gently on the neck as he slowly prodded her marehood with his fingers. She let out a breath and bit her lower lip as he slowly parted her entrance.

“How do you want it?”

“Guh...two...fast...”

Spike raised an eyebrow. “Man, has today been that rough on you?”

“Guh, fuck, Spike, stop teasing me and...unnnnhaaa~” Scootaloo shivered as a second digit penetrated her. Her scent was easy to pick up on now, and her movements became sluggish as she gave in to the feeling of her dragon lover fingering her.

Sure, it wasn’t the first time she’d been teased or penetrated. She had been with a few mares, and knew all the wonderful sensations a skilled yet gentle hoof could produce. The downside to being a pony, though, was the lack of fingers for more intricate play. She supposed that was all the more reason to have toys to compensate for that, but still, there was something to be said about the warmth of another’s body as they pleasured you.

She and Spike had been together for almost two years now, experimenting in all sorts of things while keeping their relationship somewhere between casual lovers and a loving couple. One thing she had learned about him was that he always aimed to please, no matter how unplanned sessions like these were.

Her wings were rigid, almost painfully so. She could only focus on the feeling between her legs and the soft, emerald eyes that gazed at her lovingly.

“How is it?”

“Gnnn...” Scootaloo replied. She managed to smile, leaning forward to kiss him.

He happily reciprocated her gesture, groaning as she bit his lower lip, just hard enough to register a twinge of pain.

Scootaloo’s hips were now moving on their accord, taking in Spike’s fingers and squeezing them with every thrust. Meanwhile, Spike was beginning to have trouble focusing on the task at hand. Namely due to the growing arousal between his legs, but he was determined to finish his job first.

“Hah...Spike...I think...oh yeah, right-hah...aahhh~” Scootaloo’s wings flapped several times as she buried her muzzle into the crook of Spike’s neck. “Ohhhhh, I’m—”

Spike felt his hand become coated in her fluids as she let out a low groan, her whole body freezing as she let out shaky breaths. He held her against his chest and felt the rapid thumping of her heart as she slowly, ever so slowly, eased down from her climax.

For several long minutes they lay there, both coated in a fine layer of sweat. Scootaloo lifted her head, giving Spike a lopsided smile. “Thanks...”

“No problem,” Spike replied. “Didn’t know you were that wound up, though.”

She chuckled. “Hey, it’s spring. What do you expect?”

Spike shook his head. “Yeesh, thank the stars dragons aren’t affected by the seasons. I don’t know what I’d be like right now.”

Scootaloo hummed in thought. “I’d be interested in finding out if I could.”

“Of course you would,” Spike rolled his eyes and laughed lightly.

Scootaloo nuzzled him affectionately, then looked over her shoulder and down to his crotch, her smile widening noticeably. “So...your turn, huh?”

“If you’re too tired, I’ll be fine.”

Scootaloo snorted in laughter. “Oh, sure, ‘I’ll be fine’. Hah, right. I can see the bulge beneath your scales, even in the dark.” She rubbed over the sensitive spot with one of her back legs, eliciting a hum of approval from the drake.

Smirking, she turned around so that he got a good view of her butt. She began to tend to his concealed arousal, slowly teasing at the gap between two scales as they parted with her tongue.

“Uhhhnn...”

“There we go...” Scootaloo grinned as Spike’s twin rods revealed themselves to her, fully erect and twitching. She licked her lips, suppressing a giggle as Spike’s hips shook a bit when she tapped one of his shafts with a hoof. She would be lying if she said she didn’t enjoy the bit of dominance she had over him in situations like this.

Her tongue slowly ran up the length of one, then the other. She heard Spike exhale deeply, the faintest hint of smoke reaching her nostrils as she continued. She took a moment to look at Spike, whose tongue was now lolling out of his mouth.

Heh, and he says I’m the one who was wound up...

She couldn’t blame him–or herself–though. With her job demanding so much from her, and Spike often keeping himself busy with the odd errand or task involving friends, they didn’t get to have as much time alone like this as of late.

Again, hooves only provide so much comfort when a mare needs some alone time.

Satisfied with her warm up, Scootaloo spit into both hooves and began stroking the drake’s hemipenes. She could hear him uttering her name every so often between his hisses and groans.

Truth be told, Spike was her first and only ‘stallion’ that she had ever been with. For the most part, she preferred mares. Spike, however, whatever that reason may have been, drew her attention. Not so long ago, both of them were out on their own, not sure yet what they were looking for in life other than freedom as adults. They had started out as friends looking to help each other out, but that changed with time. He had helped her get her job as a courier, had been nothing but encouraging with her dream of becoming a professional flight sportspony, and above all else, he just plain loved her for who she was.

She smiled, and returned her thoughts to the shafts standing before her. “So...what am I going to do with you two?”

She waited, curious if Spike would suggest anything to her. When she was met with relative silence, she glanced over her shoulder, giving him a curious look. He simply smiled, his silent gesture to go on ahead and let her make the decision.

She glanced down to her own rear, giving him a questioning look, then nodded to his twitching shafts. Immediately his eyes widened, and he shook his head.

“Why not?”

“Scoot...we’ve been over this—”

“We won’t know unless we try, though.”

“I don’t want to hurt you,” Spike countered lightly. “As much as I’d probably like to, I like the idea of you not being injured more.”

Scootaloo snorted in irritation. “I bet you’d fit.”

“I bet I also might do some serious damage down there. I’m not a pony, Scoot. Despite what some stories say, there’s a good chance I could really hurt you...” He sighed, and placed a gentle hand on her back. “I don’t want that to happen.”

Scootaloo’s frown vanished slowly, being replaced with a reluctant smile. “Alright...someday, though...”

Spike nodded. “Maybe...”

Satisfied with his answer, she continued with stroking his shafts, but an idea struck her, and she slowed down.

“Wha...what’s wrong?” Spike asked.

“Sit up, I got an idea,” Scootaloo explained as she crawled off him. Spike did as she instructed, sitting cross-legged on their bed. Scootaloo reached for the side table drawer by their bed and pulled out a jar. She unscrewed the cover and lay down on her back before him, grinning deviously. Spike caught on immediately, his face lighting up in excitement.

“Heh, we haven’t done this in a while.”

Spike scooted forward, assuming what most would see as a standard missionary position. Spreading her legs and flagging her tail to the side, the mare gave him a teasing grin. “Well...?”

Spike rested his drakehoods just below her belly, and grabbed ahold of either of her back legs. In turn, Scootaloo took some of the lubricant in the jar and spread it over her belly and hooves. “Yeesh, this stuff is cold.”

“Good thing it washes off.”

“Still...it’s always cold.”

“Better than whipped cream, right?”

Scootaloo frowned deeply. “Good point. Though, I thought we agreed that we wouldn’t talk about that night ever again?”

“Hey, I had fun.”

“I know,” she grumbled. “I never heard so many jokes about ‘eating out’ in my entire life,” Scootaloo snickered a little as Spike smirked. “Alright, big guy, you ready?”

Nodding, Spike slowly moved his hips forward and Scootaloo placed her arms over both of Spike’s throbbing cocks. He shuddered as he came into contact with the cool lubricant, but the feeling was countered by the wonderful warmth of being nestled between Scootaloo’s arms and belly.

Slowly, he began to grind against her. The smacking of skin against skin filled the air as Spike picked up his pace. Scootaloo closed her eyes, loving the feeling of Spike pushing against her. While she would have loved it more between her legs instead of her stomach, she understood Spike’s concern. Just looking at the length of his hemipenes would make most mares more than a little hesitant and most stallions more than a little envious. Apparently, though, Spike was average for a drake his age, or so his research had told him.

Every so often Scootaloo would lick at the head of one of his cocks as he thrust, which in turn was rewarded with a shuddering gasp from Spike.

“Scootaloo...” Spike murmured, his voice heavy with lust.

He thrust forward again, but she held him in place this time. He paused for a moment to register, then stopped his movements as she began to suck on the head of both shafts, switching off every so often.

“Mmmmnn...” She hummed as she licked the tip while keeping eye contact with him. The way he winced and panted was equal parts adorable and sexy, at least for her.

She started stroking him off again, and the sensation of her tongue and her skilled hooves against his lengths seemed to be almost too much. It felt like he was ready to burst with how hard he felt against her fur coat, and his throbbing was like a pulse all on its own.

“O-oh...Scoot...I...gah...”

Despite his garbled message, she understood him clearly. Pulling her lips away from his two tips, she began to stroke him faster. He softly grasped a hold of one of her hooves with a hand, moving with her and holding her gaze.

Scootaloo just smiled and tongued the tips of both cocks once more. That, apparently, was enough to set him over the razor’s edge.

A jolt ran down his spine, and he grunted her name seconds before spurting onto her chest. She closed her eyes as more of his seed was released, coating her cheek and chin. The hot, sticky fluid’s scent invaded her senses and made her dizzy for a few seconds.

“Guh...stars above, Scoot...that was...” He exhaled deeply, a long satisfied breath. “Thanks...”

“Anytime, stud,” she replied with a grin.

She could feel his claws slowly loosening their grip around her ankles before letting go. Two strong arms picked her up and helped her up to a sitting position.

Scootaloo giggled as he felt a wet facial tissue wipe against her eyes gently. “Yeesh, Spike, how long were you holding that in?”

Spike let out a soft chuckle. “Male dragon, remember? Not exactly a small load I’m packing here.” He finished cleaning her off and grinned as she slowly opened her eyes. “Want to hit the shower?”

“Only if you’re inviting me,” she answered. “Care to try out that tongue of yours this time?” She flicked her tail a bit and grazed his nose.

“Who am I to turn down the request of a lady?”

“Hah, lady...” The mare rolled out of the bed. “Keep talking, loverboy. Oh...do we have any clean sheets to replace these with?”

“Way ahead of you. Did our laundry yesterday.”

“Oh good. The last thing I want is to borrow from Lyra and Bonbon’s linen closet...again.”

“We never told them about that, did we?”

“No,” Scootaloo began. “Though I think they figured it out.”

Spike paled a little. “Did we ever...on their...?”

“No, no...at least I don’t think we ever did. That’d be weird.”

Spike nodded, and the two silently agreed not to talk further on the matter as they made their way to the bathroom for a late-night shower.

“...it’s six in the A.M, and you are listening to Iron Hoof 95.8, your only station for the best in rock and metal of today and yesterday! I’m your host, DJ Headbanger, and we’re gonna start you off with some Metalliclaw with ‘Of Wolf and Mare’.”

Spike heard the lump of fur next to him groan as it scooted closer, nuzzling his chest.

“Scoot...”

The sound of bass, guitar, and drums began to blare from the radio beside him. For a moment he was tempted to just give up and stay curled up beside the mare sleeping next to him. Scootaloo nestled further into Spike’s warm body. He looked down to see a contented smile on her face.

Only she could be this peaceful while sleeping to metal music...

Spike nudged her gently with his snout. She protested with a weak groan, frowning as she was slowly roused from her sleep. Both eyes opened, a weak scowl on her face.

“Morning,” Spike greeted.

“Mmph.”

“Scoot, come on, you have to wake up.”

“Dun wanna...” she mumbled, pulling his wing over her body. “Too comfy.”

Spike sighed, and reached over to turn off the radio. He then slowly scooped up the pegasus with both arms. It was practically routine for him; Scootaloo was far from a morning pony, and she had a penchant for snuggling. While he liked the fact that she found him to be comfortable, the fact that she had work in an hour was more important.

She opened her eyes and gazed at him as he opened the door to their bathroom. Her mane was sticking up in different directions, and her eyes were still adjusting to the light of the bathroom.

He wouldn’t lie; Scootaloo was adorable in the morning.

“You awake?” Spike asked as he set her down on the floor.

She blew a stray lock of her mane from her face. “Yeah...”

Spike nodded, and left the bathroom so that she could complete her business in privacy. He made his way into the kitchen, pausing when he noticed Bonbon was already up and about, cooking something on the stovetop.

“Oh, morning, Spike!” she greeted cheerfully. “I was hoping you’d be a little while longer, but...” She smiled, flushing in the cheeks a bit. “I wanted to make breakfast before you both left for work.”

“Thanks, Bonbon. Need any help?”

“Oh, no, I’m just about finished. I figured pancakes would be a good way to start you off. You like banana and walnuts in them, right?”

Spike nodded and breathed in the scent of fresh bananas and walnuts cooked in pancake batter. His stomach immediately woke up, gurgling and demanding to be fed. Bonbon laughed as he gave her a sheepish grin.

“I’ll set the table.”

Five minutes later found Scootaloo, still half-awake, sitting at the table with Spike and Bonbon.

“So, how is everything?”

“Great, Bonbon. Your cooking is the best.”

“Mm,” Scootaloo grunted, the equivalent of a compliment from the mare this early in the morning. She turned to Spike and gave him and cocked her head to the side slightly. “What’re you still up for?”

“Oh...I didn’t tell you, did I?” Spike laughed quietly. “I got a job yesterday; I’m working Security at the Everfree House.”

“Hm?”

“The Everfree House...that place that opened up down the road, not far from Fluttershy’s place?”

Scootaloo nodded. “Mm. Cool. I’ll have to ask for you whenever I make deliveries there...” She finished the last of her breakfast and chugged her juice, letting out a satisfied sigh. “Thanks for the food, Bonbon. You’re the best.”

“Oh, it’s nothing, Scootaloo. Just be sure to get to work on time.”

Scootaloo snorted as she strapped her courier bags on, both brimming to the top with important letters to be delivered today. “Who do you think I am, Rainbow Dash?”

“Well, you did get flying lessons from her. Who knows what else you picked up from her?” Spike answered.

“Yeah, yeah. She’s awesome, but I’m punctual.” She gave a wave as she opened the door leading outside. “Later!”

Bonbon giggled as Spike shook his head. “You think she would be used to waking up this early after working her job for so long.”

“Scootaloo? Being a morning pony?” Spike rolled his eyes. “I think Princess Luna would sooner do a photoshoot for Playcolt magazine.”

“What about Princess Luna in Playcolt?” asked a voice. The two turned to see a groggy Lyra walking out of their bedroom, yawning and scratching her sides.

"Nothing, Spike was just joking.”

"Oh, that’s a shame. Luna’s got a nice pair of flanks.” Lyra sat down, completely oblivious to the scowl Bonbon gave her. “So, when do you leave for work, Spike?”

“About eight. I got a bit of time.”

“Ah,” Lyra replied with a nod. Her corners of her lips slowly curled upward. “So...how was last night?”

“Lyra, you promised you wouldn’t tease him,” Bonbon hissed, only to cover her mouth and give Spike an ashamed look.

“I...” Spike sighed. “Did we wake you up again?”

“Nah, Bonbon was reading and I was looking over some of my compositions,” Lyra answered with a wave of her hoof. “It sounded like Scootaloo was having a good time.”

"Lyra...” Bonbon continued. “Stop it!”

“What? It’s not like I have a problem with it...” Lyra grumbled. “Look, I’m happy for you two. It’s good to have someone that can make you feel amazing. Right, Bonbon?”

Bonbon shrunk back a bit, cleared her throat, and nodded. “Ehm...yes. Yes, it is.”

“I...well, I’m glad you two aren’t upset about it...or weirded out by it.”

“Weirded out by...huh?” Lyra cocked her head to the side, and a look of understanding passed crossed her face. “Oh, Spike, come on!” She actually sounded hurt. “You’ve lived in Ponyville for years, now. You’ve probably helped save our collective hides more than a few times from some disaster or another. That, and I won’t lie, you’re kind of hot. Besides the point, though; you really think something like you being a dragon would get to us?”

"Not really, but I know some folks are bothered by it.”

"Yeah, well, screw them, then.” She blinked. “Not literally, though, that might cause problems.”

"Well, still, thanks for being...um...supportive?”

“No problem,” Lyra grinned.

“Right, well, as Lyra was saying, we just want you to know that we’ve never had a problem with you two being together. It’s actually kind of adorable...I-I mean, not the stuff you do in the bedroom...”

“Yeah, that stuff is probably hot.”

“...it’s the fact you two are happy. That and it’s cute to see you carrying Scootaloo from bed in the morning.”

Spike flashed the two a grin. “Thanks, girls. I...that means a lot.”

“No problem, Spikey,” Lyra said as she levitated a cup of coffee into her awaiting hooves. “Oh yeah, if you’re going to be going through town after work, can you pick up a copy of the Canterlot Sun? I hear they have a review of the latest Equestrian Symphonic Orchestra concert in there. I want to hear how it went.”

“Sure thing. Actually, I should probably pick one up from the newsstand right now so I don’t forget later.” He got up from the table and made his way towards the door. “Later, girls.”

“Bye, Spike! Have a good first day at your job!”

“Be sure to tip the dancers fairly—ow! What the hay, Bonbon?”

Spike made his way out to the waking town of Ponyville. Neighbors were up and about, tending to their lawn or heading to work, a few pausing to wave to Spike as he headed for town square.

Spike reached the Ponyville newsstand within ten minutes, greeted the young mare running the booth, and picked up a copy of the Ponyville Press and a copy of the Canterlot Sun before paying her a handful of bits. He paused as he looked at the thicker newspaper from Canterlot, studying the image on the front page.

Princess Twilight Sparkle’s Tour of the Bovidian Lands Continues, Strengthens Relations Between Countries.

A picture of the young alicorn sitting beside three minotaur chieftains in a great hall took up most of the front page’s space. He grunted before folding the paper up and tucked it under his wing without a second thought.

“Well, would ya look at who’s up and about already.”

“Hm?”

Spike looked to his right, eyes lighting up as his lips split into a smile. “Good morning, Apple Bloom.”

Apple Bloom had probably grown the most out of the original three Cutie Mark Crusaders. She had gained the build typical of Apple family mares: lean, powerful muscle, a strong back, and a pair of powerful back legs that could break a cherry tree in twain with little effort yet get the attention of the passing stallion.

“Mornin’, Spike. I’m assuming you’re not up just to read the newspaper,” she said with a smile. “What’s the occasion for you being awake this early?”

“Aside from getting Scootaloo out of bed, you mean?”

Apple Bloom laughed. “That lazy mare. I swear she’s taking after Rainbow Dash more and more every day.”

“Heh, yeah. To answer your question, though, I’m heading to my new job.”

“You don’t say?” The mare beamed. “Well shoot, where are ya working?”

Spike bit his lower lip and looked away for a moment. “Heh, would you believe the Everfree House?”

The young mare’s eyebrows rose. “Y-you mean that bordello at the edge of town?”

“Well, it’s actually not part of Ponyville proper. It’s on Everfree soil...it’s a long story, full of legal jargon, from what I’ve been told.”

“Huh...” Apple Bloom cleared her throat. “So...erm...what exactly are ya doin’ there?”

“Security work,” he replied quickly. “Hopefully nothing too bad will happen on my first day, heh.”

“O-oh, heheh, right. I should’ve guessed you’d be doin’ something like...ahem...Security...” She looked to her hooves. “I...well, I’m happy to hear that!”

“Yeah, the pay should be pretty nice. I’ll be working odd hours though, from what it sounds like.”

“I can imagine. No rest for the weary, right?”

Spike chuckled. “Yeah...so...how is Applejack and the family doing?”

Apple Bloom visibly loosened up, a smile appearing on her lips. “Oh, we’re just great! Summer’s been pretty kind to us so far. Zecora’s been a big help since she moved in, too. Her and Granny have been brainstorming all these neat ideas for getting a great harvest this year. I’m actually running into town to get some soybeans and some winter squash.”

“Winter squash? Isn’t that stuff really tough-skinned, though?”

“Yeah, but Zecora’s got lots of great squash recipes that she’s been sharin’ with us! She says that producing a variety of crops will help keep the soil from being drained so quickly.”

“Makes sense,” Spike agreed. “I bet you’re having a field day with all the work, too. Is the new greenhouse up, yet?”

Apple Bloom rolled her eyes and chuckled. “Hardly. It’s my pet project, so I don’t really have free time for it. Still, I’ve been puttin’ sis and Big Macintosh to shame since I started doing the woodwork and repairs ‘round the farm. Once we get that greenhouse up, we can grow food all year long!”

“Think you can grow some gems for me?”

“Oh, sure, just as soon as Applejack allows me to start growin’ pears and orange trees,” Apple Bloom quipped with a flat look. “For the last time, Spike, we aren’t going to start a gemstone farm. It’d take up too much time that we don’t have.”

“I still think it’d be a great investment for your family...”

Apple Bloom shook her head. “Right, well, I need to get going. Um...have a good day at work!”

As Apple Bloom made her way down the road, Spike could only imagine how awkward things would be the next time he decided to buy some apples from Applejack. He could almost hear her lecturing him now...

“...now Spike, I want you to keep yer nose clean and stay out of trouble over there at that bordello, alright? I better not hear any stories from a sobbin’ Scootaloo ‘bout you fooling around with some mares you hardly know. Oh, by the way, tell Lyra we’ll be selling Golden Delicious apples next week. The trees aren’t ready, yet. Darn fruit bats have been nibblin’ at the—”

He sighed, and made his way westward towards the road leading out town, and towards the Everfree Forest. No sense in worrying himself to death about things he wasn’t certain about. Besides, he wasn’t doing anything too risqué; he was Security. If anything, his job was to ensure things remained safe at the Everfree House. There was no shame in something like that, was there?

No, of course not.

He couldn’t help but put a bit of spring into his step. Today had been off to a good start for him. He got an amazing breakfast, courtesy of Bonbon, he was starting a new job, and Pinkie Pie hadn’t run up to him and told him about some foreboding Pinkie Sense of hers. If all things went well, Ponyville would be able to avoid some minor crisis for at least the majority of the day.

Yes, so far, today was off to a good start, he thought.

Author's Notes:

This idea has been brewing in my head for months, now. Finally got it into a coherent form, and now a story. I'm intending for this to be mostly chapter or multi-chapter arcs (sort've similar to the style for Duties). There is an overlying arc or two in here, though.

Anyway, thanks for giving this a read!