“I am so super-sorry Spikey,” the pink mare wrapped her forearms around the dragon’s neck.

“It’s okay, Pinkie.” Spike laughed as he pulled away from the hug. Sitting on his hind quarters put him taller than her; he'd hit another growth spurt he was only just shy of being as tall as Big Mac. “So you knew about Rarity and Fancy Pants then?”

“I wanted to tell you, but Rarity made me Pinkie Promise,” Pinkie shuffled nervously.

“It’s okay. I wish she had trusted me enough to tell me herself.” Spike nodded sagely. “But breaking a friends trust is the fastest way to lose a friend–”

“For~~~ever~~~~~” the pink mare finished.

They both laughed. Spike poured another bottle of cider into the two glasses. “For milady!”

“Hay of a way to find out though.” Spike chuckled darkly.

Pinkie Pie held a hoof to her muzzle, trying to stifle the giggle. “Were they really on the fainting couch in the middle of the store?”

“I swear! When I knocked at the door,” Spike blushed furiously, “I thought she yelled out ‘Come in!’”

Spike awoke the next morning feeling extra groggy. He and Pinkie had spent a good deal of the night drinking. They’d moved from Sugarcube Corner to the Parched Saddle, where they’d met Big Mac and Caramel. His memory got fuzzy around the point somepony mentioned hoof-wrestling for the tab. Somehow, Pinkie Pie had beaten them all.

The malevolent sunlight flared through the open curtains, burning away all remaining hopes of sleep. Princess Celestia was no benevolent ruler, she was a tyrant, and her sun scorched all dissidents in her path.

Grumbling, Spike dragged himself from the comfortable bed, careful not to topple any of the piles of books dotting his bedroom. He made his way towards the bathroom, got in the shower and let the warm water flow over his aching body.

Drying himself, he stared at his reflection in the mirror.

“Looking good Spike.” He raked a claw down his muzzle. “Looking real good!”

Truthfully, he didn’t look good. He looked hung over. Which was appropriate, he guessed, given the current pounding in his head. He gargled some mouthwash, and spat it in the sink. Holding his claw to his face, he breathed out and sniffed at his own breath. Not bad, or at least no worse than usual.

“Alright, time for breakfast!”

Spike cracked four eggs into the skillet, and fried them over a low heat with some hay bacon. Buttering a few slices of bread, his hay bacon and egg sandwiches were ready.

“Oh sweet merciful Celestia,” he groaned, as he bit down into the first sandwich. “Forget Zecora’s potions, this is a hangover cure-all!”

Egg yolk dribbled down his claws and onto his forearm.

“No, that won’t do at all!” Checking that no one was watching, he licked the yellow goo from his arm. He loved his foster-sister, but he was glad she was busy in Canterlot. She’d have fussed over him doing something so gross and boyish.

He managed to finish the three other sandwiches without making any more of a mess of himself. He cleaned the rest of his arm off in the sink well enough that he wouldn’t need another shower. He wouldn’t have minded another shower, but he had work to do today.

With a sigh, he sat down with quill and paper. “Right, item one. Start checklist. Check.” It was a useful habit he had picked up from Twilight, though he’d never admit it to her.

Spike went through the jobs he had to do for the day. It was reshelving day today. Since taking over as librarian, he’d assigned on day a month for reshelving, rather than once a week like the previous librarian. He’d long since come to terms with the former librarians craziness, but he loved her for it.

He also had flying practice with Rainbow Dash in the afternoon. His wings had come in, but he was still learning how to use them. He had the wingpower, but not the finesse.

The last item on the list he was looking forward to the most. Visit Pinkie Pie to help with Twilight’s 'Welcome Home' party.

Owlowiscious flew down and landed on Spike's marginal convert. Spike leaned back and nuzzled the bird. “Looks like I’m not the only night owl, huh?”

“Who?”

“Me, that’s who!” Spike grinned a toothy smile. He no longer fell for the owls joke, but they both still enjoyed playing along. “You going to get some shut-eye? Twilight will be coming home tomorrow, so you should be nice and rested.”

Owlowiscious hooted with delight as he flew the short distance to his perch.

Spike moved about the library as quiet as he could. No longer needing a ladder for the top shelves made sorting a lot easier. Thanks to the greasy breakfast, and his draconic constitution, the last vestiges of his hangover were dissipating. He suspected Pinkie, Big Mac and Caramel were not faring quite as well.

“Hello, Spike? Are you around,” a voice filtered through the door.

“Cheerilee,” Spike whispered enthusiastically when he reached the door. “Sorry to be so quiet, Owlowiscious has just fallen asleep. Please come in.”

Spike led Cheerilee through to the library main. “Can I offer you a cup of tea?”

“Oh, that would be delightful. Thank you!”

Spike set the kettle on boil and returned. “It won’t be a few minutes. Now, how can I help you?” Spike had a good idea of why Cheerilee was there. She had come with the same request every year. In truth, he looked forward to it every time.

“Well, I was wondering if you might be able to spare some time next week to come in and visit my students. We’re doing a project on dragons, and well…”

“Of course I’d love to come in. How does Monday sound, after lunch?"

Cheerilee clapped her hooves, earning a 'hoot' from the slumbering owl. "Oops, sorry. Yes, that would be perfect!"

"I’ve gotten some new books from Canterlot the students might enjoy too. Twilight sent me a few that weren’t too offensive.” Spike smirked. Equestrians still had some misgivings about dragons, but the only ones they seemed to encounter were the roaming miscreants during the migrations. “I also have a special surprise planned for the students this year too.”

“Oh, really? What do you have planned?” Cheerilee’s eyes lit up. “Nothing too scary, is it?”

“No, nothing scary at all. I am sure you will all enjoy the surprise.” Spike let out a deep, rumbling laugh. Owlowiscious hooted in indignation at being awoken again. “Sorry, Owly. I’ll keep it down.”

“You aren’t going to tell me, are you?” Cheerilee looked at him suspiciously.

“Oh dear, there’s the kettle.” Spike left for the kitchen. A moment later he lumbered back, holding a tray in one claw. “Sorry, I only have teabags. How do you have yours?”

“White and one thank you.” Cheerilee smiled as he poured the water into her tea cup. He then poured the remainder of the water into his own oversized ‘Yes, I like coffee this much’ cup.

“Thirsty, are we?” She grinned.

“Only mug built for dragons.” Spike let out a quieter laugh. “Actually, Pinkie Pie found it in the joke shop and bought it for me…”

“Oh, what a thoughtful gift! It must be hard finding things for someone of your stature.”

“Yeah, and it would have been a nice thought. Except she bought it for me when I was still a baby. It’s impracticalness was the probably the only thing that didn’t spurt another greed growth.”

He downed the tea in one gulp; despite the size of the mug it was still a little small for his tastes. Without the tray to carry, he walked to the shelves with far more grace, and started picking out a few books. Clutching three books with one arm, he lumbered his way back to the table. Cheerilee couldn’t help but notice how much dexterity Spike lost when he couldn’t walk on all fours.

“Okay, we have Dragon Physiology. That has some interesting chapters on how we make fire. I’d skip chapters four and seven though. I’d prefer not answer any of those questions in class again.” Spike blushed, remembering a particularly curious filly the previous year. Cheerilee had the sense to flush red too. “This one is interesting, Fall of the Draconian Empire. I’ve read a lot about it, and I've written to Princess Celestia at lengths about it too.

“And last but not least, the surprise.” Spike pulled out an old tattered book. “One from my personal collection. Song of the Ancients. It was a suggestion from Princess Luna last year, and has become a personal favorite.”

Cheerilee looked carefully through the book. The lettering looked mostly like stylized claw scratchings. She raised an eyebrow, looking at Spike.

“I thought a nice poetry reading might be enjoyable, I’ve been practicing my Draconic. Though we might want to do that outside.” He laughed at Cheerilee’s inquisitive look. “Dragon poetry is supposed to be loud. I’ll keep this book with me, so I can write out a few in common Equestrian for the class.”

“Well Spike, this definitely goes beyond my planned lesson.” Cheerilee beamed. “Thank you so very much, Spike. I really appreciate this.”

“It’s my pleasure,” he chuckled. “Hopefully the new foals won’t be so scared of coming to the library after this.”

“Thank you so much for the tea, but I better get going. I can’t wait to go through these books and revise my lesson plan.” Cheerilee waved farewell.

Spike noted the look on Cheerilee’s face was akin to Twilight’s when somepony mentioned the words ‘research paper’. “Have fun, and don’t stay up too late.”

“Hmmm, yes.” Cheerilee was already engrossed in thought as she was walking out the door. “Oh, wait, I mean no. No I won’t. Bye Spike!”

The rest of the morning was uneventful. Spike had a visit from Written Script who dropped a book off that Spike had ordered. Davenport and a few work ponies dropped off a new sofa. Spike had been tired of trying to fit on the small pony-sized sofa, so had ordered something for himself. Owlowiscious hooted as the ponies noisily moved the couch into the room.

By the time lunch came around, he was happily finished with the resorting. He would not, as Twilight would have insisted, double and triple checked his work. Without her around to mess things up, the books were always in their right places.

Just in time, as his next appointment crashed through the front door.

“Ready to go, Spike?” Rainbow Dash bellowed. “Time waits for nopony!”

Owlowiscious let out his loudest, most indignant hoot yet. He flew from his perch and out the door, most likely to find a nice, quiet branch where he could actually sleep.

“What’s up his beak?” Dash laughed.

“He was trying to sleep,” Spike coughed. “Not everyone just woke up, you know.”

“Hey, I’ll have you know I was up at the crack of dawn today!” She puffed her chest out proudly.

“And you’ve not napped since then?” Spike knew his friend well.

“Are we going to get flying or not?” Dash attempted to deflect the question. Spike roared with laughter. Rainbow caught a strong whiff of the previous nights cider. “Woah, Spike buddy. You going to be alright to fly? How much did you drink last night.”

“Don’t you worry about me,” Spike winked. “I’ve got a bigger tolerance for cider than you fur-flanks!”

“True that,” Rainbow laughed. “Shame I was doing drills this morning, else I’d have joined ya. What were you celebrating.”

“Sorry Dash, can’t tell you.” Spike let out another burst of laughter. “Pinkie and I were… well, lets just say we were celebrating for somepony.”

Without another word, Spike stepped out of the library, and took to the air.

Rainbow Dash made sure to punish the dragon for keeping tight lipped. The latest of her torturous exercises was to have Spike hover between two clouds. She’d placed one below him, and one above him. He had to keep himself between the two clouds without disturbing either.

He was certain this was not 'endurance training' as she had claimed it was, but simple revenge. She’d made it obvious when she continued to prod Spike for information.

“Come on,” Dash laughed, lounging on the cloud below him. “I know you’re hiding something. This’ll be all over if you just tell me what you guys were celebrating.”

“You think… this’ll… make me… crack?” Spike laughed, sweat beading from his forehead. “You got… to come… up with… more than… this.” He could admit to himself it was close, but he’d not let Rainbow win this battle of wills.

“A few little words. That’s all it’d take, and it’ll all be over.”

“I can… think… of something… else.” The dragon knew he was at his limit. But he’d still not let Dash win.

“Yeah, and what’s that, dragonboy–” Rainbow Dash’s words were cut off by the smirking face of the dragon dropping straight through the cloud currently acting as her current bed. Her cloud obliterated, she found herself in free fall.

“Race you!” The dragon below her shouted back, having already spread his wings and diving for the nearby lake.

“Oh, it is on, scale-brain!” Rainbow snapped her wings open and dove.

“I can’t believe you beat me!” Spike groaned. “I had at least a fifty foot head start!”

“It’s going to take more than a fifty foot head start to beat a Wonderbolt.” Dash laughed as Spike drew in ragged draughts of water from the lake. “And might I remind you the consequences of pranking your commanding officer?”

Spike curled up his claw and held it out, and Rainbow dapped it with her hoof.

“Still, that was pretty awesome.” Rainbow nodded. “You’ve never done a suicide-dive like that before. And you came out of pretty well too.”

“Hey!” Spike shouted. “I meant to do that flip… ish.”

“Yeah, you gotta watch out for the extra weight you’re carrying down there.” Dash gave his flank a light kick, which did not give under her hoof. “Celestia, what’re you made of, rock?”

“Well, I do have a steady supplementary diet of gems,” Spike laughed. “So yeah, maybe?”

Dash looked up to the skies. They’d been flying for a while, and the sun was getting low. “Up for one more round, recruit?”

“Yes Ma’am.” Spike sat on his hind quarters with a mock salute.

“Keep this training up, and we might have our first fire-breathing Wonderbolt.” Rainbow Dash sniggered. “You’d look hilarious in one of the blue speed suits.”

“I think I’d prefer my job as a librarian, thanks.”

“Whatever,” Dash gave him a grin. “Egghead.”

The two took back to the skies.

Freshly washed, Spike landed just short of Sugarcube Corner. After his training session with Rainbow Dash, he’d decided to go back to the library and shower again. It was almost certain the Cakes would not appreciate the fine odour of dragon sweat permeating their place of business. Spike could barely stand the stench himself.

He stepped through the door, only to be stopped by the forearms of Sweetie Belle.

"Spike!” she screamed with joy.

“Hey Sweetie Belle, long time no see.” he smiled, returning the hug. “What’s a big-time Applewood star like you doing ‘round these parts?”

“I’m just visiting Sis before my next tour.” Sweetie Belle was still the unbridled bundle of energy she had been when they were young.

“And what ‘m Ah? Chopped lettuce?” Apple Bloom stepped beside her friend.

“Oh, and I’m visiting Apple Bloom,” Sweetie Belle blushed. She stepped away from the hug.

“Hey Bloom, how are you doing?” Spike ruffled her hair. “How’s your brother feel waking up this morning.”

Apple Bloom smirked. “Very, very, very ill. Fluttershy wanted to let him sleep, but Ah dragged him out to the fields.”

“So you girls coming tomorrow night? Pinkie and I are only planning the best party ever.”

“Yeah!” The two mares cheered.

“Did somepony say party?” Pinkie had appeared between the girls.

“Oh, Spikey’s here! Time for our party planning party!” Pinkie stood up on her rear legs, and whispered into Spike’s ear. “We have balloons. I repeat, we have balloons.”

Grabbing the dragon by his claw, Pinkie dragged Spike upstairs. Spike waved farewell to the girls. “Gotta go, apparently. See you tomorrow night!”

Pinkie dragged Spike into her room. Before he could even stop to say ‘Hi’ to Gummy, Pinkie turned to him wearing a pointed purple party hat. “Spike, get ready to make a checklist.”

Spike was so taken by her impersonation, he found a quill and parchment already in his claws. How exactly it had got there, he wasn’t sure. But ponies had long since learn not to question such things around Pinkie.

“Okay Pinkie,” he chuckled, quill at the ready. “What’s the plan?”

“Step one. We organise the bestest, most funnest, Welcome back to Ponyville Twilight party ever!”

Pinkie sat there in silence. Spike continued to wait.

“What’s step two?” He asked, after the silence had gotten to him.

“That’s it.” Pinkie giggled as she skipped around the sitting dragon.

“That’s not a plan, Pinkie. That’s a goal!”

“That’s the same thing, silly.” Somehow Pinkie had ended up hanging upside-down from the ceiling, talking to Spike. No, not hanging. Standing on the ceiling, upside down.

Spikes eye twitched, and he closed them before his mind could comprehend the new reality his eyes were being presented with. It had become somewhat of a reflexive action when he was around the party pony.

“Aww, is Spikey sleepy?” He opened his eyes when he felt her weight across his shoulder. She was arched over his back. “We can plan the party later, if you need to sleep.”

“I am okay Pinkie. I was just worried you were going to fall.” He looked away, hoping to hide the heat he felt in his cheeks.

“Why would I fall, silly?” Pinkie was sitting on her bed. Spike turned to the spot on his back Pinkie had been leaning on. He could still feel the heat from her body. When had she moved?

“Are you certain Twilight hasn’t been teaching you her teleport spell?” he asked nervously.

“Nopey-dopey! I can’t cast spells. I’m not a unicorn. Or an alicorn. Or a gypsy.” Pinkie drew in a sharp breath. “Oh! Wouldn’t it be super-duper-funerific if I could though?! Then I could have fun with all my friends and not have to choose between them or have to make more me’s with a mirror pool…”

Spikes brain seized up. Whatever it was Pinkie did, she didn’t seem even the least bit conscious of what she was doing.

“…are you crazy?” Pinkie continued.

‘Oh hay!’ Spike realised he missed Pinkie’s non-sequitur. He decided to sit in silence for a little longer. Maybe he’d catch the next one.

“And that’s the story of how I got my Cutie Mark!”

‘There we go!’ Spike mused to himself. Out loud, he asked, “So Pinkie. We have decorations; Applejack said she was bringing the cider. What can I do to help?”

“Well,” Pinkie shuffled about on her hooves. “I was wondering if you wanted to come over tomorrow and help me bake the cake?”

“Yeah! That sounds like a lot of fun!” Spike sat up. “I don’t cook a lot with Twilight away so much. It’s a date!”

“Yay!” Pinkie Pie pulled Spike into another Pinkie Pie hug. “We’ll make chocolate chip cookies and cupcakes and raspberry muffins and a biiiiiiiiig vanilla mud cake with whipped cream and strawberries.

“Thank you so much Spikey!” Pinkie planted a small kiss on the side of Spikes cheek. “We’ll make this the best party ever. Oh, no! I have to go get more streamers for the party cannon…”

Spike turned to find Pinkie gone. He sat there dumbfounded, holding a claw to the spot Pinkie had kissed. A furious blush covered his face.

“No,” He shook his head. “That was just her being Pinkie Pie.”

Spike bathed in the warm sunlight filtering through the window onto Twilight's old bed. He lay wrapped in the warmth of the sheets and blanket. He breathed a deep sigh into his soft pillow and wished he could stay all day. This warming light was a gift from a Goddess herself! Surely this must have been a personal gift to him, from his dear friend Celestia.

Snuggling deeper into the bed, he longed for the days of his youth, sleeping away the long Sunday morn in his little basket. These days he got the bed.

“Spike!” He sat up, startled by an unexpected voice just as the alicorn tackled him back to the bed. “OhImissedyousomuch!”

“Twi—light?” Spike groaned confused. He drew her into a hug.

Twilight glanced around the room, examining the tall piles of books perched precariously around the room. “I do hope none of these are library books, Mister!”

“Nope, they’re all mine! Pinkie Promise.” Spike grinned sheepishly.

“Aww, who’s my little bookwyrm,” she chuckled.

“What are you doing back early? I thought you weren’t coming home until this afternoon.”

“Luna and I returned to Canterlot last night.” Twilight laid next to Spike. “Luna will be coming later today, but I couldn’t wait to see you and all the girls. I was hoping we could go see them when you got up.”

‘Oh buck!’ That woke Spike up. “Uh, no! We can’t.”

“Why not?” Twilight looked curiously at him.

“I, uh,” Spike stammered.

‘Okay, think Spike, think. I have to give the girls time to set up the party. And I absolutely have to keep Twilight away from Sugarcube Corner.’

“The library!” Spike groaned internally for what he was about to do. “I forgot to– uh– do the reshelving yesterday.”

“You what?” The nervous tic Twilight started to display told Spike his gambit succeeded. “Oh Spike– No, how could you forget that? Quick, get up, we have to get started right away.”

“Twilight, I haven’t had breakfast yet… you think you might be able to put on a pot of coffee?” Spike tried to put on his best puppy-dog eyes, but the intervening years had hardened his facial features, and sharpened his already draconic eyes. “Pleeeeeeeease. I haven’t had your coffee in so long.”

“Oh, of course Spike.” Twilight nuzzled his cheek. “But then it is straight to work!” Twilight got up and made her way downstairs.

“I’ll be right down, I promise.” Spike scrambled from his bed, and dashed to his bureau. He quickly scratched out a letter.

Pinkie Pie,

Can’t make it, Twilight here early. Delaying her in library. Send help when you can.

Spike

He opened the window, and breathed flames over the note. He watched the magical fire whizz in the direction of Sugarcube Corner.

Spike groaned as they finished quadruple checking the reshelving. Even with Twilight’s magic, it had taken them all morning.

“I’m very impressed Spike,” Twilight praised. “You’ve done a good job keeping the shelves sorted.”

‘Of course, I sorted them yesterday!’

“Though I still can’t believe you had Fifty Shades of Hay in the foal literature section. How could I have missed that on the first check?”

‘Well, if I hadn’t moved it while you weren’t looking, you’d might not have checked over everything four times.’

“You have to understand the importance of a well maintained library. Could you imagine what would have happened if a foal found that. What would the parents think?”

Spike switched off as Twilight entered lecture mode. He was thankfully interrupted by a knock at the door. He moved to open it, and found two guards.

“Princess, you have a…” the guard stopped mid sentence. “Dragon!”

“Protect the Princess!” the other guard yelled, as they both lunged towards Spike. Three very solid thunks resounded throughout the library, as two guards and a dragon tumbled through the door.

“Stout Shield! Tower Defense!” Twilight employed the Royal Canterlot Voice. “Unhand my brother this instant!”

Two very shocked guards, and one slightly less shocked dragon got to their feet. The two guards bowed, apologizing profusely to the princess.

“Our deepest apologies, your Majesty.” Stout scraped.

“We were informed your brother was librarian.” Tower offered. “We must have misheard when our CO said dragon.”

Twilight Sparkle huffed impatiently. “Spike, might I introduce my guards: Stout Shield and Tower Defense.” She turned to the guards. “This is my brother, Spike. Yes he is a dragon and Ponyville’s number one greatest librarian.”

Spike couldn’t help but laugh at their embarrassed apologies. The ponies around Ponyville had become accustomed to his presence, but for most of Equestria, a dragon meant bad news. Having spent some time with Garble and his dragon crew, Spike could not blame their attitudes.

“Look at it this way, gentlecolts,” Spike said with a flourish, “you’re the first Royal Guards to have saved a Princess from a rampaging librarian in the last four hundred years.”

“Three months, actually.” Spike turned to the very embarrased Twilight. “Jade Singer was not happy when I fell asleep with my head in the original Griffon-Equine compact.”

The guards winced as Spike fell the to floor laughing again.

“Ahem, excuse me gentlecolts?” A sweet and refined voice drifted in through the door. “May I come in, or will I be tackled too?”

“Rarity!” Twilight bounded past the guards, and pulled her friend into a tight embrace. “Oh it’s so good to see you! Spike and I were just about to come and see you girls.”

Spike and Rarity avoided each others gaze.

“Well, my dear. I saw your two strapping guards,” she flashed an award winning smile to the now blushing guards, “and surmised you were here. I bought cakes, if you’d like some tea?”

“Oh, Rarity, that would be wonderful. Let me put the kettle on.” Twilight dashed into the kitchen.

“How are you this morning, Rarity?” Spike asked awkwardly.

“Very well, thank you.” Rarity shuffled about, looking everywhere but at Spike. “Pinkie sends her thanks for the note. She expects you to make up your missed cooking date later. She also asked if you could come and help. I am here to relieve you.”

Spike stepped toward Rarity, who tensed up nervously.

“Rarity,” Spike sighed. “We need to talk about what's happened. I don’t want things to be awkward between us.”

He pulled her into a hug. “Congratulations on your relationship. Fancy Pants is a wonderful stallion. Only noble I know without his nose stuck up his own patootie.”

Rarity sniffled into Spikes shoulder. “You-you’re not mad?”

“Of course not. I am happy for you, you deserve a good boyfriend,” Spike let her go. “I told you. I was hurt when you turned me down, but that was three years ago. I’m a big dragon, you know. If I can survive a bath in a pool of lava, I think I can survive a little rejection.”

“You are such a good friend Spike,” Rarity smiled. “Not many would be so understanding.”

Twilight entered the room, levitating a tray of tea cups, and Spikes ridiculously oversized mug.

“What’s going on with you two?”

“Oh, nothing.” Spike laughed. “I was just telling Rarity I had to go out. She’ll keep you company, Twi.”

“Oh, and as a good friend,” he turned back to Rarity as he stepped through the door, “I’d advise next time locking the door.”

Spike left the library roaring in laughter, leaving behind a beet-red mare and her princess friend asking ‘what all that was about’.

After ensuring he had not been followed, Spike knocked on the rear door of Sugarcube Corner. Any other pony could walk through the front doors inconspicuously, but as a dragon Spike did not have that luxury.

“Pinkie, it’s Spike,” he said in hushed tones through the door.

“No entry without the password!” Pinkie giggled through the door.

‘Password?’ Nopony had told Spike there was a password. He decided on the first word that came to mind. “Party?”

The door burst open, Pinkie spilling out. “Did somepony say party?” She looked at the laughing dragon in front of her. “Heeeeey! That’s not the password. You tricked me, Mr smarty-drake!”

Spike stepped through the door pass the pouting pink pony. “And for future reference, the password was ‘banana’.”

The smell of the bakery filled Spikes nostrils and made his mouth water. He became very acutely aware of having only had coffee for breakfast. He started forward, reaching a claw towards a tray of cupcakes that had his name written all over it, only to be stopped by a surprisingly strong Pinkie Pie.

“Nopey-dopey!” Pinkie pushed the grumbling dragon through the kitchen, the delicious baked goods now out of reach. “Kitchen is for bakers only!”

“But Pinkie,” the dragon moaned as she pushed him through to the front of the store. “Twilight didn’t let me have breakfast. We’ve been reshelving books all morning.”

Pinkie stopped. “I thought you reshelved yesterday.”

Spike groaned. “I did. But I had to do something to keep her from finding out about this party.”

“Awww, poor Spikey,” she passed him a muffin. “This is for helping keep the party a surprise.”

Spike looked down at the small, stale muffin. “Hey, this is stale!”

“And that –” Pinkie Pie sung as she skipped through the double doors back into the kitchen “– is for standing me up this morning!”

Shrugging, he flicked the muffin in the air and swallowed it on one bite.

Spike was the last to leave Sugarcube corner. It was early evening, and everypony had to get ready. Spike was stopped at the door by two different guards, a pair of bat-winged ponies. Stout and Tower were standing with them, but they made no sound.

“Halt dragon! Come no further!” One of the bat-winged guards called.

Spike looked to Stout and Tower, but they showed no sign of helping him out. Spike could see Stout biting his own lip, and Tower’s eyes were particularly watery. Spike guessed that he was going to get no help from either of them. He’d play along with this hazing amongst the guards.

Drawing himself up to his full height, he bellowed, “Royal Guards of the Night Princess. You have trespassed upon my territory. If they shall deny me entrance to my own domicile, then I demand you extricate yourselves, and your princesses from my domain forthwith!”

The two bat-winged ponies moved forward, their spears at the ready. Stout Shield broke into laughter, and Tower Defense knocked on the door with his rear leg. “Your highnesses. The rampaging librarian is back. Shall we dispatch with the ruffian, or will you allow him an audience?”

“Allow me an audience?” Spike scoffed with mock hurt. “Why, this is sovereign territory they have invaded, and they are the ones that will allow me to return? Do they not know that the Golden Oaks Library is capital of the small nation of Spikeopolis?”

Twilight poked her head through the top of the door. “What’s all this noise out here? Oh, Spike! You’re back. Come on in, Luna can’t wait to see you.”

Spike stepped through the doors, nodding to Luna’s guards, and sharing a chuckle with Twilight’s guards.

“Warm evening to you, Spike,” Luna smiled as she greeted the dragon.

“Good evening Princess Luna,” Spike swept into a bow. “It’s very good to see you again.”

“As it is to see you too, my friend.”

Twilight stepped around Spike and sat next to Luna on the new sofa. “Spike, if you have a minute. I wanted to speak with you earlier, but you ran off.”

Spike felt a dry catch in his throat. This sounded like a serious discussion. He didn’t want a serious discussion to spoil this night. Tonight was supposed to be a celebration party, Twilight’s welcome home.

“Sure Twi, what’s up?”

“I have some good news, and some bad news,” Twilight sighed. “I won’t be moving back to Ponyville. I'll be moving to Canterlot Castle, permanently this time.”

Spike had guessed this would happen someday. Twilight had been spending far more time at Canterlot Castle and abroad with her royal duties than she had spent in Ponyville. These days, the guest bed stayed mostly packed away.

“I’m sorry to hear that, Twi. I know it’s hard to keep up with your royal duties from here in Ponyville.” He couldn’t help but feel a twinge of sadness. “Just promise you’ll still come and visit us every now and then. The girls and I will miss you, alot.

“You’ll always have a home in Ponyville.” He smiled weakly.

“Spike, the reason I need to move is not because of my royal duties,” Twilight looked nervously towards Luna, who nodded. “It’s so I can be closer to my fiancé.”

“Oh, that’s okay-” Spike stopped dead in his tracks. “Wait! Fiancé?!”

Twilight draped a wing over Luna’s back, and Luna leaned against Twilight.

“Other than Our sister, you are the first to know.” Luna smiled at the dumbstruck dragon.

“You? And Twilight?” Spikes thoughts were slowly coming back up to speed. “Really?”

“Yes?” Twilight answered nervously.

The next second Twilight was tackled to the ground, Spike on top of her. “Twilight! That’s amazing. Oh congratulations!”

“Spike! Heavy!” Twilight struggled. Spike rolled off of Twilight, holding out a claw to help her up. The second she was on her feet again, he pulled her into another hug. Twilight laughed as he cried happy tears into her shoulder. “We wanted to tell the girls while we were both in town, but I wanted to share it with you first.”

“That is so wonderful Twi!” He turned to Luna and pulled her into the embrace too. “And congratulations to you too. Oh that’s so wonderful!”

An idea came to him. “We have to go out and celebrate tonight! Let me go get ready. I’ll organise somewhere for the girls to meet us.” He opened his wings and beat hard as he flew to the second floor. Twilight rebuked him for flying in the library, but he just craned his neck and poked his forked tongue at her.

He slid into his room and stepped towards the bureau.

Pinkie

Pull down welcome home banner. Party just got better. Tell you when I see you.

Spike

Spike led the two princesses and their four guards to Rarity’s house. He knocked on the door and pretended to wait impatiently, harumphing loudly. “I thought I told them we’d meet here.”

“It looks like Pinkie’s light is on.” Twilight pointed towards Sugarcube Corner. “Maybe they’re meeting there.”

Spike craned his neck around, looking to Sugarcube Corner. ‘Oh Twilight, you’re making this easy on me.’ Out loud he answered, “Yeah, maybe Pinkie knows where they are. This way, ladies.”

Of course the storefront was dark. Spike called out to Pinkie’s window. “Hey Pinkie, you there?”

Pinkie Pie leaned out of her window. “Hey Spike! Oh, Twilight! And Princess Luna! Come in, I’ll be right down.”

Spike opened the door to allow Twilight and Luna through, though neither stepped forward.

“Twilight, why doth Spike grin like a cat with a saucer of cream?” Luna asked.

“Oh, that’s because the girls have organised a surprise party for me, and they made Spike responsible for keeping it a secret. And he is a terrible actor.”

“Oh, come on!” Rainbow yelled from inside.

“What? Wait… how?” Spike stammered.

“Girls. Luna and I have to deal with the machinations of Canterlot nobles every day. If we couldn’t see through a ruse like this, Equestria would be in a whole lot of trouble.” Twilight stepped through the doorway as the lights turned on. “And you made the lynchpin of the plan the very same dragon who tried to frame Owlowiscious with a stuffed toy mouse and tomato ketchup.”

“Awww,” Pinkie moaned, as the other laughed.

“Stout, Tower. There is a bakers entrance to the rear of the building. Can you stand guard there? Luna, could your guards cover this entrance?”

“Of course,” Luna nodded to her two guards. “Gentlecolts, you have your orders.”

“Yes ma’am,” the four guards saluted and took their positions.

Spike looked around the room. They’d hastily rolled up the banner, and he noticed a subtle change in the colors of decorations. Where before there were mostly violets and deep purples, now there were added streamers in differing tones of blue. Spike marvelled at Pinkie’s ability to adapt at such short notice.

Pinkie Pie rushed forward to hug Twilight. Spike was glad that the overly protective guards were out of sight; from his experience they tended to tackle first, question later.

“Twilight it’s so good to see you even if you ruined the surprise!” Pinkie squealed. “And Princess Luna too oh it’s so good to see you too.”

Applejack helped Fluttershy wobble over to the two guests. Twilight moved towards them, so that Fluttershy wouldn’t have to walk as far. Rarity greeted Princess Luna, and Dash went to rag on Spike.

“Wow, Fluttershy!” Twilight smiled. “You’re so big now! When is the baby due?”

Fluttershy hid behind her mane. “Umm, the babies are due in six weeks. We’re having twins.”

“Fluttershy! That’s amazing!” Twilight pulled her into a gentle hug. "Big Mac must be so proud!

She turned to Applejack. “Oh AJ, I missed you too. How is Caramel and Ginger Gold?”

“Ginger’s growing up real strong like his Ma!” Applejack laughed. “Caramel can barely keep up with him. He’ll be buckin’ apples with us in no time!”

“You done with all that mushy family junk?” Rainbow laughed as she stood next to Twilight. “Some other ponies would love to say ‘hi’ to the Egghead here.”

“That’s Princess Egghead, thank you very much Dash.” Twilight giggled. “I’m glad you could make it.”

“Eh,” Rainbow Dash shrugged. “Spitfire’s just got me training rookies. Leaves my weekends relatively free.”

Spike turned to Luna. “This might take awhile, Princess. Are you hungry? Pinkie is an amazing cook.” Spike lead the Princess to the food table. “Everything is good, except the green and purple frosted cupcakes. Unless of course you enjoy chipped emerald. Just a warning, the punch on the left is alcoholic, the one on the right is non-alcoholic. Can I get you something?”

“We think we would very much like to try the punch on the left.” Luna smiled as Spike poured two glasses of the punch and passed hers over.

“Good to see royalty isn’t afraid to party, Princess.” Spike winked as he took a sip of his own drink.

“Please, Spike. We are going to be wed to your sister. Call us Luna, we’re going to be family soon.”

“Okay, Luna. That would be nice. I don’t really like the titles amongst friends. So when will the wedding be held? I hope nopony invited Chrysalis this time.”

This elicited a laugh from Luna. “While there will likely be dignitaries from other nations, we shall not invite that one, no.”

“And the public announcement is tomorrow?” Spike chuckled. “You know you two are going to break the hearts of many a young colt. And I dare say a few mares too.”

“They shall just have to pine after Tia, she could do with a few more suitors.” Luna chuckled. “Mayhaps thou wouldst be interested? We could marry the last of the Sparkle family to royalty.”

Spike choked on the punch he had been drinking. Luna laughed over his coughing and spluttering.

“Oooh, oooh! Did Princess Luna tell a funny joke?” Pinkie Pie appeared between them. “Was it the one about the griffin, the pony and the zebra that walked into a bar?”

“We were just discussing with Spike how Equestria might improve its standing with the Draconic nations,” Luna grinned mischievously.

Pinkie Pie cocked her head to the side in confusion. “I don’t get it.”

“Nevermind,” Spike blushed. “Can I get you a drink, Pinkie?” He grabbed another glass before Pinkie could answer, and poured her some punch.

“Thanks Spikey!” Pinkie downed the drink in one gulp, and yelled, “Let’s get this party… started!”

After some drinks were shared, Twilight called for everypony’s attention. Pinkie Pie lifted the needle from gramophone, then sat back next to Spike and Luna. She was sitting so close to him, he could feel her positively twitching and shaking with excitement. He mused that she must have been waiting for this since his cryptic letter.

“Girls, I wanted to share with you some wonderful news,” Twilight smiled as everypony turned towards them. Spike turned to Pinkie, who was now bouncing up and down on her rump. “I unfortunately won’t be staying in Ponyville anymore. I’m moving back to Canterlot permanently. Because…”

Twilight paused for effect. “Girls, I’m getting married.”

Luna stood with the others, as Applejack, Rarity, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy went to congratulate Twilight. Spike turned to the pink mare beside him, worried. She hadn’t moved to join the others, and was now vibrating at a frequency, which if Spike was able to guess, should be superheating the air surrounding her. He prayed that she wasn’t about to go critical from the excitement.

“So who’s the lucky stallion Twi?” Applejack asked.

“Yes, when are you going to introduce us?” Rarity was positively beaming. “Oh, another royal wedding, how romantic.”

“Actually,” Twilight chuckled as Luna stood next to her. “You’ve already all met my fiancé.” Luna draped her wing over the shorter alicorn.

An explosion sounded behind them all, and everypony in the room was covered with streamers and confetti. Sitting next to Spike was a madly grinning Pinkie Pie with the largest party cannon anypony had ever seen.

In the midst of a stunned silence, Spike looked up at the now open banner. “Pinkie, how did you kn-”

She was no longer next to him, but had the two princesses locked in an epic hug. “Oh I am so happy for you.”

Above the confused group hung the open banner.

Congratulations Twilight Sparkle and Luna on your engagement.

Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom had arrived late, and upon hearing the news, Sweetie Belle performed a ballad for the happy couple. Everypony cheered when the two princesses stood up to dance with each other as Sweetie Belle sang.

“How did you change the banner so quickly?” Spike could not quash his curiosity.

“Oh I changed it before everypony got here.” Pinkie giggled, thoroughly inebriated at this point. “Before the party, I got a twitchy tail, itchy eye, gurgly belly and a tickle in my fetlocks. Which meant one of my friends was getting married to Princess Luna. And then I got your letter, I knew it wasn’t you, me, or Dashie.”

Spike was thankful for the punch he’d consumed. It helped dull the edge of her Pinkie-logic. “Really? You have a Pinkie sense specifically for somepony marrying Luna?” he asked incredulously.

Pinkie rocked back on her haunches, bursting out with laughter. “I have no idea!” Spike looked at the smiling, very rosy face of his friend. She had obviously consumed a fair amount of punch, given the copious giggling. But then with Pinkie, it was hard to tell.

“Spikey-wikey,” Pinkie Pie pouted. “Why are you sitting here in the corner? Why aren’t you dancing?”

“You remember the last time I danced?” Spike laughed. “AJ chased me all the way from Sweet Apple Acres back into town after I gave Caramel a concussion.”

Pinkie grabbed him by the claw, and led him towards where the others were dancing. “Make way, the Great and Powerful Spikey has come to dance. Those in the front may get a little bumped.”

Spike managed to keep the injuries to a minimum on the dance floor. He could not let loose as much as Pinkie and Twilight had. He was aware that if he flailed his claws out like they flailed their hooves there would be several friends, as well as half of Equestrian royalty, in the Ponyville hospital with severe lacerations.

And he didn’t particularly fancy another tussle with the fine gents of the Royal Guard.

He did suffer a few laughs at his and Pinkie’s expense. She had bumped him with her flank, and he had returned the gesture by bumping back, though that only succeeded in sending her skidding across the floor.

“Did anypony get the number of that pegasus?” Pinkie sprawled across the floor. Then she burst out laughing.

“Pinkie, I am so sorry,” he held out a claw to help her back to her hooves.

When the dancing had finally finished, ponies had collected in groups again. Spike could overhear Apple Bloom talking with Twilight about Sweet Apple Acres newest cider press, hoof-designed by Apple Bloom herself. They were both getting bogged down in technical details, while Applejack and Fluttershy listened with pride, even if their expressions told how little of it they understood.

Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Sweetie Belle and Luna were arguing about music. From what Spike could overhear, Sweetie Belle and Luna shared a passion for the old crooners, both being particularly fond of Blue Eyes; whilst Rarity expounded on the value of classical music. Rainbow Dash was pulling faces behind the indigo-maned unicorn.

Spike had heard Rainbow’s ‘music’ and highly doubted anypony there would agree with the superiority of her tastes. If Spike wanted to hear ponies screaming frantic at the top of their lungs, he’d just tell Twilight she’d forgotten to file a friendship report.

Pinkie Pie sat next to him, very mellow, and from the glazed look in her eye, very drunk. Spike appreciated the company, he’d always felt a little left out when he was younger. But not many older sisters invited their little brothers along to parties, so even considering their unique circumstances, it wasn’t too odd.

But at the time he didn’t really have friends his own age beyond the Cutie Mark Crusaders. Twilight’s studies always kept him too busy for that.

He missed his sister, he really did. But since her ascension to royalty, he’d actually felt able to come into his own. He had his own job, his own home (even if the two were really by royal appointment). He had his own friends, and while they did overlap with Twilight’s, he’d come to enjoy spending time with Big Mac and Caramel. Cheerilee visited often, and he’d befriended Written Script and his wife, through their mutual love of books.

He had become his own pony, or his own dragon, not just second hat to his big sister.

“What’s got you all mopey, dopey?” Pinkie giggled next to him.

“Just thinking about how much has changed. How I am not the little dragon I once was. It’s been difficult, and a little lonely, but I think it’s for the best.” Spike let himself smile. “And look at Twilight. She’s so happy.”

“That’s what happens when you have somepony you love!”

That paused Spike’s thoughts. He looked at everypony there. Applejack and Fluttershy had somepony in their lives, and they were definitely happier for it. Rarity was with Fancy Pants, and she definitely seemed happier lately. And if the rumors about Rainbow Dash and Soarin were true, he could definitely see she was much happier; though honestly just being in the Wonderbolts was probably enough.

And now Twilight and Luna were going to be wed. And Twilight willingly moving to Canterlot to be with her was proof enough of how happy she was with her fiancé.

‘And Pinkie.’ Spike thought. ‘Well, actually, I don’t know if she’s got somepony in her life. She has always been pretty private about that. But then she’s always happy, so she probably does.’

‘Will I ever find that?’

“Hey Mr Dragonpants!” Pinkie Pie pouted, pulling Spike out of his pensive pondering. “Turn that frown upside-down. Only smiles are allowed at a Pinkie Pie party!”

“You’re right!” Spike stood. “Let’s join the others.”

Pinkie got to her hooves, and wobbled. “Oopsie, I think I had a little too much punch.” She snorted out a laugh, and leaned on Spike. “Help me get there, I think Discord’s done something to the floor.”

Fluttershy and AJ were the first to leave the party. Big Mac and Caramel had arrived outside to escort the ladies home.

“It sure as sugar was good to see ya again, Twi.”

“Come back soon, you'll have to meet the foals– eep!”

Fluttershy protested having to ride in the cart behind Big Mac, but none of the others would allow her to walk all the way home to Sweet Apple Acres so late in her term.

“Well, Twi. I'll miss you. Luna, you take good care of the egghead for us.”

Even though he knew he would pay for it next training session with her, Spike couldn’t help but rib Rainbow for leaving early.

“Bailing already, Dashie? The wittle wonderbolt getting sweepy?” That earned him a punch in the arm.

Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom followed, to see if they could find any nightlife around Ponyville to keep the party going. If they couldn't find any, Sweetie assured Apple Bloom they could create some.

“You two head on home. I’m going to stick around and help Pinkie Pie clean up.” Spike saw Twilight and Luna to the door. “And Twi, you two can have the upstairs bed. I’ll sleep on the couch.”

“Oh, Spike! I couldn’t take your bed,” Twilight protested. “It’s your home now, not mine. I should sleep on the couch.”

“Yes, it’s my home now, so I make the decisions. Take the bed, okay?”

“Okay,” Twilight hugged him. “We’ll see you in the morning.”

Spike turned to look around the store. Despite Pinkie Pie’s protestations, he was not convinced she was capable of cleaning everything before opening the next morning. She was still trying to find where Discord was hiding, adamant he needed to fix the floor before customers arrived.

“Pinkie, come over here.” Spike sat her down. Walking into the kitchen, he filled a tall glass of water and brought it back to her. “Here, drink this, or you’ll wake up feeling terrible tomorrow morning.” He helped hold the glass for her.

“Thanks Spikey,” Pinkie giggled like a schoolfilly.

“Okay, lets get started with this cleaning.” He moved about the shopfront cleaning the decorations. Pinkie remained seated, but he didn’t mind.

‘She’d probably make more of a mess anyway.’

He hummed a tune as he worked. “Sweetie Belle, that song is too catchy!”

“Pinkie, what do you do with the leftover decorations?” Spike turned to find her asleep in the chair. He looked at the ball of streamers and confetti, and was struck with an idea. Walking to the counter, he found a piece of paper, as well as a pen.

Dear Princess Celestia,

It was most unfortunate you were unable to attend the celebration of Twilight and Luna’s engagement. Please accept this gift, and know you were in our hearts and minds throughout the party.

Your friend,

Spike

Letting out a mischievous laugh, he took a streamer and tied the letter to the ball of decorations. For good measure, he grabbed a slice of cake and placed that on top. “This is for sending that set of Encyclopedia’s I asked for by dragon fire!”

Breathing a gentle fire across the package, the magical flames sent it off towards Canterlot. Chuckling to himself, he closed the window and continued cleaning.

“Pinkie,” Spike whispered. “It’s time to go to bed.”

She attempted to swat him away. Smiling, he gently lifted his sleeping friend and carried her to her room.

“Thanks for the party Pinkie,” he whispered as he tucked the mare under her duvet. “I had a great time.”

Pinkie Pie muttered in her sleep. “Thanks for coming, Spikey.”

Spike smiled as he left Sugarcube Corner.

Spike’s smile faltered when he reached the library. He did not recognise the four faces standing outside. ‘Change of the guard, great! What's to make a bet that–’

“Stop right there, dragon scum!” One of Luna’s bat-winged guards called as he approached to door.

Spike groaned. This had stopped being funny hours earlier. Did these guards not talk to each other as they changed shifts. ‘Oh, hey guys, by the way: there might be a dragon that comes by, don’t worry, he’s just Twilight’s little brother.’

“Guys, I am cold, tired, and this joke is growing old. Let me in so I can get some sleep.”

The guards leveled their spears at him.

“Auuuugghhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh! Just wake Twilight and she’ll tell you I live here.”

The vocal guard laughed. “A likely story, dragon.” His voice practically spat the word. “We will not be waking Her Highness for the likes of you.”

“D-didn’t the Princess say her brother was coming home later?” One of Twilight’s guards stepped forward.

“Does the Princess look in the least bit like a dragon?” the first guard snapped.

“N-no sir!”

“Then it stands to reason they are not related. Now you, –” He turned back to Spike “– begone!”

Spike was in no mood for this. “You” – he pointed at the scurrilous guardspony – “What is your name?”

The guardspony drew himself up to his full height, head proud in the air. “My name is Midnight Watch. Do not forget my name! Do not forget me. Leave now, dragon scum.”

“Where am I supposed to go now?” he asked nopony in particular. He wasn’t entirely sure where to go, and he didn’t particularly fancy sleeping in the park. He walked back to Sugarcube Corner, hoping that Pinkie would not mind him sleeping in the store front.

Curling up on the uncomfortable hard floor, he desperately wished for a book to help him sleep. The thought amused him, as he’d always teased Twilight for packing extra books whenever she travelled, even just for sleepovers.

‘Item one for tomorrow’s checklist: Prepare emergency bookpack!’

He wondered if Pinkie Pie might have had a cookbook or something he could ‘borrow’ to help him find slumber, but he knew all too well that was a dangerous road to travel. He’d finally resigned himself to a restless nights sleep when somepony tripped over his tail.

“Whuh?” the mare asked as she pulled herself to her hooves. “Iss someone there?”

“Sorry Pinkie, it’s me.” Spike answered. “Did I wake you?”

“No, s’right. I was just going to get a glass of water,” she slurred. She continued through to the kitchen, Spike could hear the sound of the faucet running. She returned moments later.

“Why are you on the floor?” Pinkie yawned. “Floors aren’t for sleeping, silly.”

“Twilight and Luna locked me out tonight.” Spike yawned in sympathy. “Didn’t want to sleep in the park, hoped you wouldn’t mind me sleeping here.”

“Okie–” Yawn.

“Dokie–” Yawn.

“Lokie.” Pinkie Pie grabbed Spike by the claws, and dragged the stunned dragon up to her room.

She nudged him over and onto the bed. Spike went rigid as she crawled into bed next to him.

“Mmm, you’re warm.” She spooned into his chest. “Night, Spikey.”

Spike could smell a faint scent of nutmeg and vanilla in her mane.

He gulped audibly. ‘I don’t think even an entire wing of the Canterlot Archives would help me sleep tonight.’

Spike awoke, feeling the warm sunlight streaming into the room. Slowly opening his eyes, he took in the room around him.

‘Where are my books?’ He panicked, jumping out from under the warm duvet, searching for his missing books. As his mind finally slowed and he truly took in his surroundings, he noticed the room was pink. Very, very pink.

It dawned on him where he was.

He spun back around to face the bed. ‘Where I slept next to Pinkie.’ She was no longer there, which he reasoned was a good thing; she could have been injured by him when he launched from the bed.

‘She is a baker though, so she is probably already downst–’

“Good morning, Spikey!” Pinkie sang, as she burst into the room. “Wakey wakey, hands of drakey!” She stopped short, watching Spike clutch at his chest. “Oh, you’re already awake!”

Grinning wildly, she bounced the tray she had balanced on her back to the bedside table. “There’s breakfast, I made your favorite: cinnamon and citrine swirls. Gotta go, Sugar Forest is looking after the counter all by himself!”

She bounced out of the room, leaving Spike to his breakfast.

After he finished the delicious breakfast, he made his way down the stairs to the shop main. It was, as usual, packed with customers looking for a quick breakfast or sugarfix to get them through the work day. He paused at the bottom of the steps. Everypony was looking right at him.

He walked stiffly towards the door, aware that nearly every pair of eyes watched him as he crossed the room.

A thought struck him, and he turned back. “Thanks, Pinkie. F-for letting me look through the Cakes old recipe books,” he stammered. “Sorry to bother you so early.”

This satisfied the curiosity of a good deal of the patrons, but he was certain he could still hear some whispers. He hurried towards the door.

“Pinkie says any time, lover-boy!” Pinkie’s apprentice, Sugar Forest, called from the counter. This earned a round of laughter from most of the stallions in line. Spike exited before his blush ignited anything flammable.

Midnight Watch was still on guard at the front door as Spike walked towards the library. A nervous tic twitched as he spied the obnoxious guardspony.

Before Midnight could speak, Spike roared in his loudest voice. “Twilight Sparkle! Get your rump down here now before I turn this obnoxious little guard into pony flambé. I had to sleep in the park last night, and I will not be denied my morning coffee.”

It was a little white lie, but sure enough it worked. Twilight burst out the front door in a flash, knocking the guards to the ground.

“Oh Spike, I am so sorry!” she panicked as she ran up to him. “I told them you were coming back, why didn’t they let you in?”

“You neglected to tell them your ‘little brother’ was a dragon, didn’t you?” He rolled his eyes and smiled at the look of horror that washed over her face. “It’s kind of an important detail, you know?”

“Oh Spike,” Twilight began to tear up. “Oh, it’s horrible, you had to sleep in the park, and it’s all my fault.”

He ignored Midnight’s scowl and the nervousness of the other guards, and drew her into a hug. “It’s okay Twilight,” he whispered into her ear. “I didn’t really sleep in the park. I managed to find somewhere to stay. But let’s get inside, I really do need a coffee.”

“Midnight Watch,” Spike nodded as he walked by the fuming guardspony. As Spike stepped through the door, he called out, “Oh Luna, would you be so kind as to tell Midnight he will be on latrine duty for a month for making the Princess’s brother sleep in the park like a common vagrant.”

“He did what?” Luna yelled in the Royal Canterlot Voice as Spike closed the door behind him.

Spike descended the stairs after taking a shower. Twilight eyed him curiously, as she levitated his large coffee mug to the table. He was carrying bulging messenger bag, which he placed by the door.

“Going somewhere, Spike?” She continued to gaze at the curious messenger bag. She recognised it as his overnight bag.

“Nope, not going anywhere –” he shook his head and sat at the table “– boy, I sure am looking forward to this coffee!”

Twilight darted around him as he lifted the mug to his lips. He whipped his tail out to trip her as she ran past, but she vanished in a flash of light, and reappeared at the door.

“No!” Spike yelled, slamming down his mug and diving towards Twilight. Claws out, he almost had her. Another flash of magic and Spike crashed into the wall, wall, Twilight's chortling reaching him from where she stood in the kitchen.

Luna watched the entire performance in silent amusement. She continued to gracefully sip her coffee as the dragon tore around the room, chasing her laughing fiancé.

“So what is Spikey-wikey hiding? Hmmm?”

Spike dove, managing to catch her by the rear fetlocks. As the two of them crashed to the ground, the bag tumbled open and spilled a sizeable pile of books on the floor. Twilight levitated a few of the titles in front of her eyes, hoping for something embarrassing. To her disappointment, there was nothing particularly salacious amongst them.

“They’re just books. I mean, they are good books.” Twilight mused as she flipped through a few pages of the Luna’s Night: A Celestial Almanack. “But why have you packed all of these?”

“Emergency bookpack,” Spike muttered under his breath.

Twilight burst out laughing. “A what?”

“Emergency bookpack! In case I get kicked out of home again,” he sighed. An embarrassed blush ran across his face. “I can’t get to sleep without a few books.”

Luna chortled, but all humor drained from Twilight’s face. She nodded solemnly. “Emergency reading is no joke.”

With a flick of her horn and a flash of magic, two gladstone bags bearing the familiar six pointed star appeared before them. She opened the first bag, and pulled out a few books.

Luna chuckled to herself and continued sipping her coffee as the two others fell into deep discussion about the books Twilight had acquired during their recent diplomatic mission to Saddle Arabia.

“A Thousand and One Nights!” Spike gasped. “Oh, Twilight, please, please, pleeeeeeease let me borrow that when you are done. I promise I will so careful with it! I’ve asked Written Script if he could order a copy for me, but he hasn’t been able to track it down.”

“Oh, whatever happened to that young dragon who told me books were boring,” Twilight swooned dramatically.

“You rubbed off on him, egghead!”

"Coming from somepony that actually hatched from an egg, that's rich!"

A polite cough alerted the pair to the other pony in the room. Luna smiled at the two who hadn’t even bothered getting off the floor from where they both first fell. “We are sorry to interrupt thy conversation, but we must return to Canterlot soon.”

“Oh, I am so sorry, my love!” Twilight jumped up. “I lost track of time.”

“Tis one of the things We love most about thee.” Luna smiled. “But we really must make haste. The chariot is soon to arrive.”

Twilight smiled, handing the book to Spike. “Here, you keep it. I can always get another copy ordered in Canterlot.”

“You know I can’t accept that Twi.” Spike shook his head as he passed the book back to her. He knew that he couldn’t accept it. “I can borrow it later, but if I want a copy, I need to buy it myself.”

He looked at it forlornly, Celestia knows when he’d get a chance to find his own copy.

“Oh, yeah! Sorry,” Twilight mumbled. “I forgot.”

“It’s okay. Anyway, you have a chariot to catch, and I have a class to teach after lunch.”

“A class? Oh that’s wonderful, Spike. I didn’t realise it was that time of year again.” A grin spread across Twilight’s muzzle and she clapped her hooves. “What are you going to teach this year?”

“Dragon poetry.” Spike enthused with a smirk.

Twilight’s grin dropped, and she shook her head. “Poor Cheerilee!”

Spike made his way to the schoolhouse after seeing Twilight and Luna off. He had hastily translated a few poems into common Equestrian; he prepared a few battle hymns for the boys, and some romantic poetry for the girls. He did have the foresight to keep to the cleaner poems; he presumed Cheerilee, and his soon to be sister-in-law; would not appreciate him sharing the poetry a love-struck dragon wrote about Luna’s morokei posterior.

‘Maybe I should do a rendition of that one for their wedding.’ Spike chuckled as he walked. ‘Or I’ll just save it for the bachelorette party.’

He walked up the path, making sure to keep away from the windows. Cheerilee always liked to make his entrance a surprise. He knocked on the door four times.

Listening through the door, he heard Cheerilee speak to the class. “Please sit up children. We have a very special guest who has come to visit us today. Many of you might have seen him around town.”

Spike gripped the door handle, and started to push. He and Cheerilee had honed this entrance to a fine craft over the last four years.

“Please give a warm welcome to Ponyville’s librarian…” Spike could hear the groans of some of the students. “Spike –” Spike strode through the doorway, head held high, looking as imposing as he could. “– the dragon.”

The shocked silence was punctuated by a hoof pump and a ‘Yes!’ from Ginger Gold at the back of the class.

“Good morning, everypony!” Spike beamed a razor sharp, toothy grin, and took a bow.

Cheerilee stepped next to him, and spoke to the class. “Class: Spike here has been Ponyville’s resident librarian for the past ten years. He took over from his sister when he was not much older than any of you.”

“But he’s a dragon!” one of the colts called out.

“I’m a dragon?!” Spike stood on hind quarters, patting himself down with his claws. “When did that happen? Cheerilee, did you know I was a dragon?” His joke earned a round of laughter from many of the foals.

“Yes Lightning. Spike is a dragon, and the little brother of Princess Twilight Sparkle,” Cheerilee answered the pegasus foal who’d burst out.

“Then how is he the princesses brother?” a filly called out.

“She hatched him!” Ginger Gold called out from the back. At this comment, most of the fillies paled.

“Th-they can do that?” The filly unicorn who'd spoken blanched. “I-I don’t think I want to be a princess anymore.”

Cheerilee and Spike laughed, then he quickly corrected the foal's misconceptions. “No, she had to hatch me as a part of her test for Princess Celestia’s school in Canterlot.”

He pulled out of his bag a few photos. There were pictures of his egg, as well as a few of him sitting on Twilight’s back, sucking on his own tail; and a few of him younger with Twilight and her friends. He passed them to the foals in the front row, and asked them to pass them around.

Many of the fillies let out ‘aww’s’ over the photos of him back when he was a baby. Predictably, the boys weren’t interested in the baby photos. He’d win them over yet.

He started the lesson with ancient history. He gave a dramatic recounting of some of the pre-Equestrian/Draconian wars, which the boys particularly liked.

He then moved on to dragon biology, as Cheerilee handed out the notes she had taken from the library books. As he predicted, everypony was particularly interested in how dragons make fire. He explained it was a mixture of chemistry and magic, and how that allowed dragons to perform their magic using their flames.

He demonstrated by sending a note to Twilight. The boys laughed as he belched a flaming reply from Twilight, and read it out. ‘Good afternoon everypony. Please keep up your studies. Princess Twilight Sparkle.’ The girls tittered excitedly at the reply from a princess!

Spike fielded questions as the students asked them, and Cheerilee was smiling at the enthusiasm of the foals.

After a short break, Spike and Cheerilee led the students out into the playground for the ‘surprise’. The students chatted excitedly, wondering what was going on. Cheerilee watched Spike nervously as he stood in the clearing, and gathered the students to sit around him.

“Now, my little ponies,” – Spike drew himself up to his full height – “before I leave today, we are going to perform some dragon poetry readings.”

This earned a groan from the students. They’d obviously expected something cool for the finale. Spike did not aim to disappoint.

Drawing in a deep breath, he bellowed with a voice that rivalled even Celestia’s Royal Canterlot Voice.

Lot bormah do fin dov brod

Faasnu ok suleyk

Kron fin Bruniikke

Daal daar du'ul

Komeyt hin bah

Krongrah!

He punctuated the final line with a booming ball of flame in the air above him.

Cheerilee and the students sat there stunned, staring at the dragon who had just roared poetry loud enough to shake the ground and rattle the windows of the schoolhouse. Then the foals started whooping and hollering as he took his bow.

He pulled a stack of papers out of his bag. Holding them up to the crowd, he asked, “Who wants to go next?” He turned a sidelong grin towards Cheerilee before adding, “And remember, dragon poetry is supposed to be loud!”

Cheerilee grimaced while Spike laughed and clapped for the children as they screamed out their poems. As he had guessed, the boys picked the ones about wars and fighting, and the girls stuck with the love poems.

“Bravo! Bravo,” he cheered in applause as the last foal sat back down into the crowd. The children were red-faced but all laughing and smiling despite their exhaustion.

“Thank you very much for having me here today, my little ponies,” he waved as he left. “And remember, you are all welcome at the library any time. We’ve got lots of books on dragons you can borrow! You never know what worlds you might find in a good book!”

An exhausted looking Cheerilee led the waving children back into the schoolhouse as he took to the air.

Finding a place to land not far from Sugarcube Corner, Spike was convinced he needed something in his stomach. Several somethings actually, if his current appetite was to be trusted. He stepped to the side, holding the door for a couple exiting the bakery.

Spike entered the shop and found Rarity standing at the counter talking with Sugar Forest.

“Couldn’t get enough ‘recipe’ this morning, Spike?” Sugar Forest guffawed. “You know she hasn’t stopped singing and dancing around since you left.”

“Hmm, what’s this?” Spike watched Rarity as her eyebrow rose and a smirk spread across her face.

“Pinkie Pie sings and dances every day, Forest.” Spike coughed, looking away. “You know that!”

“Forest, darling; this definitely sounds like a story I need to hear,” Rarity batted her long eyelashes at the apprentice baker.

Forest grinned, looking up at the panicking dragon. “Oh, Spikey-boy here came here earlier this morning, looking up recipes or something with the boss. He must have come in really early, because I didn’t even see him arrive.”

“Really?” Her gossip senses tingling, Rarity’s eyes glittered like diamonds.

“Yeah. It’s funny though,” he smirked, watching the dragon flail his arms about trying to stop him. “Because I opened up for Pinkie this morning.”

“Spikey!” Pinkie bounded out of the kitchen, wrapping her arms around Spike. He hugged her back, nervous at the grins shared by Rarity and Forest.

Pinkie turned, noticing Rarity, leaped to give her a hug too. “Oh Rarity, sorry I didn’t see you!”

“Awww, everypony except Forest gets some sugar.” Sugar Forest laughed.

“Sorry Sugar,” Pinkie deadpanned, “But no hug for you! I can’t afford to be pulled in front of pony resources again. I’m on my second written warning already. If I have to write myself one more, I’ll have to fire me!" Pinkie deflated a little. “And that would make me sad any time I saw myself in the street.”

Reflating, she turned back to Rarity and Spike, and asked, “So what are you two up to?”

Spike was about to answer, when Rarity interrupted. “Oh, we just came to get some cakes. Spike and I are having tea at the boutique. Aren’t we Spike?”

“Uhh– yes?” Spike worried. Honestly, after the class he’d just left, a few Sugarcube treats and a nap was all he had planned.

“Awww!” Pinkie deflated. “I miss out on a party?”

“No, dear –” Rarity petted Pinkie Pies hoof “– it’s just tea and cakes between two friends. Not a party.”

Pinkie shook her head. “Nopey-dopey! Tea and cakes is a tea party. Which is still a party. So the two of you will have to make it up to me!”

“Oh, I think I already have something in mind for that, my dear.” Rarity giggled. “Now, we must get going. I promise I’ll bring him back later.”

Rarity levitated her cake box in front of her, and herded Spike out the door.

“Je m'excuse, I don’t have any dragon sized teacups.” Rarity levitated the tea tray to the table. “I hope you don’t mind trying some Mariage Frères, it was a wonderful gift from Fancy.”

She smiled as she took a sip. “Mmm.” She breathed a deep sigh, putting the cup back down.

“So, how is Fancy? I’d like to meet him sometime –” Spike blushed “– well, in at least in a little less embarrassing setting.”

“Hmm?” Rarity turned towards him. “Oh, Fancy is wonderful, thank you. And I would love the two of you to meet.

“But right now I am more interested what is going on with you and Pinkie.” A grin spread across her face, like she had just found a paragon diamond of at least four-thousand carats. She watched him intently. “You two seemed very… friendly, last night.”

“You know what Pinkie is like –” Spike blushed, shaking his head “– she was just keeping me company. I didn’t want to interrupt you girls, and she was nice enough to sit with me.”

“And pull you up to dance. And apparently… oh what was it?” – Rarity scratched her chin with a hoof, pretending to look deep in thought – “Go over some recipes with you this morning.”

“I-It’s not what you think, Rarity.” Spike stammered.

“Of course it isn’t.”

“Luna’s stupid guards wouldn’t let me back into the library. Twilight and Luna were already asleep and it was either staying at Sugarcube Corner, or sleep in the park for the night.” Spike sighed. He wasn’t getting out of this, he knew Rarity well enough to realise she wouldn’t let go. “So I went back to Pinkie’s, and fell asleep on the floor of the bakery.”

“Spike, you know Twilight was right. You are a terrible liar.”

“What do you mean? That’s what happened,” Spike protested. He took a small sip from his own cup. The tea had a very faint taste to it, reminding him of chocolate. She was right, it was good tea.

“Oh, I do not doubt you were turned away from the library, if your struggle with the guards yesterday is anything to go by.” Rarity stopped to take another sip of her tea. “No, it is just that, well… Sugar Forest opened the store this morning, right?”

Spike took a deep draught of his tea. These tea cups really were too small to his liking. He nervously poked at his slice of cake while waiting for her to deal the killing blow.

But it never came. Rarity topped up her own tea, and refilled Spike’s cup. Spike was acutely aware of the burning in his cheeks.

“So, are you going to tell me, or will I fill in the blanks myself?” she asked, politely.

From the innocent and demure smile she wore, Spike could assume she had already filled in the blanks, added several wildly inaccurate and salacious details, mentally written and published a twenty novel saga he would definitely have to keep out of the foal section of the library.

“It’s not what you think,” he sighed. She had him within her claws. Which was ironic as she was the one with hooves and he was the dragon. “Pinkie woke up and found me on the floor. She pulled me up to her room.”

“How bold! And I presume, with that lovely raspberry shade you’ve taken on, you did not just sleep on her floor.”

Spike hunched, trying to make himself smaller, which turned out to be a futile effort. “No, I didn’t,” he whispered.

“Oh Spikey,” Rarity gasped in mock horror. “And here I thought you were a gentleman, but you force yourself upon a beautiful mare such as Pinkie Pie. Oh, you vile monster!”

“N-no! We didn’t– she wouldn’t–” Spike panicked. “Rarity, can we please just drop this?”

“No, we can’t,” she chuckled. “Do you know how long I had to endure Twilight’s questions yesterday when you left. No, Spikey, I’d say we most definitely cannot drop this.”

“Nothing happened, Rarity.” Spike sighed. “You know she’d never be interested in somepony like me.”

“Why wouldn’t she be interested in somepony like you?”

“Umm, hello?” Spike flung his arms out. “Dragon here. I’m not exactly popular with the mares.”

“Oh no, not popular with the mares at all, no.” Rarity burst into laughter. “Spike, how many mares have you asked out?”

“Uhhh,” Spike sputtered nervously. Truth be told, he’d only ever asked one mare out. She’d politely declined, and was now sitting in front of him, teasing him about his love life. “Not… many?”

“So you’d have no idea how many fillies kept unsent letters to the dragon they wished would be their sweetie, or the fillies who wished they were the apple of a certain dragons eye.” Rarity chuckled. “Thank Celestia Scootaloo had that crush on Dash, because I don’t have a good pun on that one.”

“W-what? They didn’t– No! They couldn’t–”

“Mmm-hmm –” Rarity nodded “– had you not had your eye set on one, I will admit stunningly beautiful mare, you might have noticed. And I dare say they weren’t the only ones.”

“They– they don’t still… do they?” Spike paled.

“Sorry Spikey-wikey, those ships sailed away years ago.”

“Oh, thank Cadence!” Spike let out the breath he’d been holding.

“Anyway, I think there is somepony who is very sweet on you, if you’d just open your eyes.” Rarity giggled. “You two would make such a cute couple.”

“And I still think it was just her being Pinkie Pie.”

Spike returned to the library, and collapsed into his bed. Not evening bothering with a night-time book, he fell into a deep slumber. He dreamed strange, confusing dreams of pirates attacking the Good Ship Sweet Apple, while the dread pirate Extravagant Dungaree tried to kidnap his favourite pink-frosted vanilla slice.

Four o’clock. Spike slumped against the door, glad that his work day was over.

Cheerilee had told her class they could earn extra credit if they wrote an assignment on dragons. Of course she had reminded them of what a great resource the town librarian would be. This then led to twelve foals rampaging through the library, pillaging the shelves of any draconic related books, as well as bombarding him with countless questions.

“Et tu, Cheerilee?” he muttered, looking around at the remnants of the library he once called his home. Spike went about righting the bookshelves that had been toppled by Ginger Gold and the four other foals that comprised the current generation Cutie Mark Crusaders.

He stacked the books haphazardly on the shelves, grumbling as he realized that he would have to make tomorrow a reshelving day, and how that would put back his other scheduled items.

Everypony knew that tomorrow was his scheduled day to send the Princess a letter.

Though truth be told: it was just a day they had both set aside for Twilight and himself to discuss any particularly interesting books they’d both read. This would invariably start a heated debate between the two bookwyrms, which would lead to an all out dragon flame war, as scrolls of argumentative writings flew between Canterlot Castle and Golden Oaks Library.

After Ditzy Doo ended up with a very singed tail, the mail pegasi declared the area a no-fly zone, and Mayor Mare informed him he was restricted to one scheduled day per week.

“Tomorrow,” he sighed. “I’ll sort them tomorrow. Right now, I need to eat.”

Spike cast a forlorn look at the piles of books, before closing the door behind him. It irritated him to no end leaving the library in such a mess.

Four minutes later the door slammed open. An irritated dragon huffed through the room, grabbing books and putting them in their correct places.

“Aardvarks: A Pet Owner’s Guide.” Spike let out an annoyed growl. “Check.”

Three hours. It was a new record for Spike.

He found hunger a wonderful motivator for reshelving. Ignoring his compulsive urges, he willed himself to limit to only double-checking his work. Taking notice of the faded light, it was obvious that Sugarcube Corner would be closed. While he needed something much more substantial than Pinkie's pastries, he also had an unexplained, very strong desire to visit the Corner.

Well, not completely unexplained. It was somewhat explainable, he had to admit. Actually, probably very explainable. If he was going to be completely honest, even if just to himself, it was actually so far removed from unexplained that scientific dissertations might well have had been written on the topic and every subtle nuance of the subject mapped out with unerring clarity.

But he wasn’t going to give it any more thought to it than that. Stepping into the cool night, he made his way into town.

Flying above the streets of Ponyville, Spike realised he didn’t really have a destination in mind. Yet his wings beat a familiar path and he quickly found himself standing at the pink door of the gingerbread themed bakery, the landing having woken him from his daze he looked around. The lights were off and nopony seemed to be home.

“Spikey!” The pink mare wrapped her arms around his neck as she opened the door. She was wrapped in a fluffy woolen scarf, striped cerulean and pale yellow to match her cutie mark.

“Hey Pinkie. Sorry, were you heading out?”

“Yep! I was just going to meet Rarity for dinn–” Pinkie Pie gasped. “You should come too Spikey! We could have dinner and dessert and tea and cakes and that would make it a dinner party!”

“Oh, no. I don’t want to impose on your dinner.” Spike shook his head. He felt guilty he’d barged in on somepony else’s plans. “I’ve just had a long day. I thought about getting something from here, but I didn’t consider how late it is.”

To anypony else, this would have been a bald-faced lie: Spike, like his older sister, had become a stickler for timetables. To Pinkie though, it was a perfectly understandable reason; she forgot things all the time! Except for birthdays, anniversaries, and any-or-all-other manner of time and dates important to ponies. And ponies' names. And everything every pony of Ponyville held dear. And she remembered that there were ponies who held the concept of times and dates important just because. Like Time Turner. And Spike.

“Okie… dokey…” Pinkie frowned, watching the nervous looking dragon. “…lokie.”

Spike groaned. He was the worst actor.

“You have to come to dinner, Spikey. You owe me.” Pinkie stared at him, not accepting no for an answer.

“Spike!”

Both Pinkie and Spike turned to find a very out-of-breath Rarity behind him.

“Rarity?” Spike moved toward the panting mare. “Are you okay?”

“I… have… been…” Rarity stopped to regain her breath. “Pardonnez-moi!

“Pinkie and I were planning on dinner; I went to the library to invite you, but you took off before I could reach you.

“I have been calling out to you since you left the library,” she added darkly.

Spike blushed. He had been paying so little attention, or perhaps he was so deep in thought, that he had not heard his friend calling him. “Sorry, Rarity.”

“Spikey is being a big grumpy-mc-grump-grump.” Pinkie Pie pouted. “He doesn’t want to come to dinner with us.”

“I just didn’t want to impose,” he tried to explain.

“Spike!” Rarity snapped. “What would your coltilian etiquette training tell you to do when two unescorted mares ask you to accompany them to dinner.” Spike had spent some time in Canterlot, training in noble etiquette in an attempt to impress Rarity. Now she was wielding it against him with a cheeky grin. She worked guilt so well, Spike thought she could have made a grand Celestial nun.

He let out a sigh. “I must apologise, miladies; I beg you forgive my prior impudence. It would be my honor to escort two lovely mares such as yourselves to dinner.”

“Much better.” Rarity smiled.

“Yay! Spikey’s coming to dinner.” Pinkie bounced with excitement.

“Buona sera, Rarity mia amica.” The owner, a familial old stallion, drew her into a hug. “It is good to see you again!”

“Lipizzano, it is good to see you too,” Rarity smiled at the old stallion. “How is Maremmano? I haven’t seen her in the boutique for so long. Please, do tell her she must visit me again soon. I miss her so.”

“You warm this old stallions heart. Please come, come! Sit! Devi mangiare, tu sei troppo magro!” He led the three to a cosy booth at the back. Rarity ushered Pinkie Pie into the booth next to her, while Spike took the booth opposite the two.

“Lipizzano, may we get an antipasto platter for starters? Oh, and a bottle of Shiraz and three glasses would be lovely.”

“Anything for you, bella! Godetevi la vostra notte!” He kissed her on the cheek before leaving.

As Spike and Pinkie looked over their menus, Rarity made suggestions. “Pinkie, I think you might like the caponata, though you may also enjoy a risotto. Spike, I am certain Lipizzano would mix in a few rubies into a panzanella for you if you asked him.” Spike and Pinkie nodded as Rarity spoke. Neither of them had eaten here before, and decided to trust her judgement.

“And I might…” Rarity’s eyes went wide. “Oh no. Oh no! Oh, this is the worst possible thing!”

“What’s the matter?” Spike looked up from his menu, seeing Rarity in a complete panic.

“Oh my, how embarrassing. I was expecting a… a call, fr–from Fancy Pants. Oh no! I completely forgot!” Rarity got to her hooves. “I am so sorry, you two. Please forgive me, I must go. The meal is on me. Please, have a wonderful night without me.”

Spike and Pinkie watched as Rarity trotted to the door. She stopped to speak with Lipizzano as she passed him a sizable sack of bits. Spike’s sharpened hearing could pick up a few faint words, though he didn’t recognize the language he did pick out the words ‘serata molto romantica’ as Rarity looked over her shoulder back at them.

Spike groaned. Rarity was the best actor.

“Spikey,” Pinkie asked with a confused tone, “what did she mean by expecting a call?”

“I… uh, I’m not sure,” he answered.

They sat in an awkward silence for a bit, sharing a glass of wine when Lipizzano returned with a bottle.

“… do you think she meant a booty call?”

Spike choked on his wine.

Once the antipasto arrived, they ordered their mains, and conversation resumed. Despite the embarrassing situation Rarity had foisted upon them, Spike happily listened to the stories Pinkie was sharing. He found himself rapt in her eyes.

‘Her wonderful blue eyes, the color of a midday sky.’ He mused. ‘Her giggly, girly voice.’

‘The cute curls in her poofy mane.’ He sighed. ‘That smile always adorning her beautiful face.’

“Whatcha looking at Spikey?” Pinkie Pie grinned, his name breaking Spike from his daze. “Do I have chutney on my cheeky?”

“Eh-hehe, no sorry,” Spike chuckled nervously. Cursing at himself, he worried that he was making Pinkie Pie uncomfortable. “No, sorry, I was just lost in thought.”

“What about?”

“Uh–” Spike wondered what he was thinking about. He couldn’t tell the truth, that the mare in front of him had captured his very thoughts. “– a book.”

‘A book? A book? That’s the best you could come up with.’

‘Hey! I didn't hear you come up with anything better.’

“A book?”

“Yeah, uhh, well…”

‘Think quick, think quick!’

‘I would think quick, if you weren’t so busy yelling at me.’

“Oh yeah, I didn’t tell you about what happened today…”

Spike shared the story of the foals, and what he suspected was Cheerilee’s revenge for the dragon poetry, and his disastrous afternoon.

“So by that point, Ginger and his friends decided they didn’t want Dragon Assignment Writing cutie marks, and went straight for Dragon Wrangling cutie marks. I mean, where did they even find a net in the library?”

The awkward moment forgotten, Pinkie and Spike laughed as he continued to share details of the afternoon.

“And that’s why I came by Sugarcube Corner so late.” Spike finished, as their meal arrived. The conversed quietly through the meal; Rarity was right with her suggestions, the food was wonderful.

“How is your meal?” Lipizzano asked, with a broad smile across his features. “Everything is up to expectations?”

“Yes, it’s amazing.” Spike nodded. “Thank you for the rubies in the panna– umm, salad thing. It was wonderful.”

“Anything for the friends of Rarity. If you have finished, we have a wonderful musician tonight. Vieni vieni, si tratta di una bella notte di ballare con una bella signora.”

“Uhh?”

“To dance! Come, do not leave such a beautiful mare waiting.”

“Oooo! That sounds like fun!” Pinkie giggled excitedly, clapping her hooves together. “Can we Spikey?”

Spike blushed. It was one thing to dance with Pinkie Pie at a party; that was just dancing with Pinkie. This would be dancing with Pinkie. Did she even know there was a difference?

Truth be told, Spike loved dancing, it was one part of his coltilian training he’d enjoyed the most. But dancing didn’t love him. He knew this would lead to somepony getting hurt.

Pinkie stood, and not wanting to be rude, Spike stood to join her. Holding his arm out for her, she laid her forearm over his and he escorted her to the dance floor. He watched the other couples nervously, while several of them watched him back.

“Don’t worry about those frowny-faces, Spikey!”

Spike turned back to Pinkie Pie, her beaming smile nearly stopping his heart in its divine glory. He knew that was an exaggeration, but only just very slightly. He allowed himself to return her smile. “Yeah, you’re right.”

Spike gulped loudly, as Pinkie stood face to face with him and held out her hoof. He gently took her offered hoof in claw, and led her in a slow waltz. He found when dancing, it was important to be acutely aware of where his tail was, it being significantly longer than an average pony's.

But with the beautiful mare in front of him, concentrating on anything but her proved futile.

Spike was impressed with her dancing, he’d always assumed she didn’t know how. She was the pony, after all, who requested the pony-pokey at the Grand Galloping Gala. But here she was, keeping perfect step with him.

Better step than him, actually.

Most of the other dancers had moved away from the two as Spike’s tail had knocked into a dancer or two, while others watched his outstretched claws with nervousness. Every time his nerves would get the better of him, Pinkie would lean in and whisper some encouraging words in his ear.

Whether it was her words, or the warmth of her cheek next to his, Pinkie was able to coax the nervous dragon out of his shell and he started to dance with more confidence. Spike was finally able to enjoy himself, the goofy grin plastered across his face mirrored perfectly by hers. He grinned mischievously as he pulled her in close to his chest. She giggled with delight as he swooped her back into a dip.

They laughed together as they danced with gay abandon.

It was during a particularly wild flourish that Spike’s tail connected with a waiter. The bottle of wine he had been carrying fell to the floor and shattered.

“S-Sorry.” Spike was mortified. He tried to help the waiter, who shooed him away.

“No, va bene. The waiter, he will get it.” Lipizzano had arrived to see what the commotion was. He looked Spike over with a friendly but somewhat strained smile. “Stai bene, amico mio? Come, sit, we will get you some desserts, sì?”

Despite Lipizzano’s warm smile and friendly gestures, Spike was acutely aware that he had been asked to sit down. As they returned to their table, he was glad they were seated at the back, further away from the judging eyes that followed him.

“Aww, I wanted to keep dancing.”

Spike felt a pang of guilt. She could have kept dancing, if it wasn’t for his clumsiness. “It’s my fault. Sorry, Pinkie.”

“It’s okay.” She smiled, back to her usual self. “Ooo, let’s get some cannolis.”

While they waited for the desserts, Pinkie Pie tried cheering him up with some of her Ponyacci jokes. She was juggling colored balls she had pulled from her mane when the waiter returned with their desserts.

“I’m sorry for ruining your night.” Spike sighed. “I guess there is a lot of normal things I can’t do, being a big, stupid drag–”

“You’re not a big stupid dragon. You’re Spikey-wikey. And you haven’t ruined my night.” Pinkie leaned forward and put a dollop of cream on his nose. “So smile.”

Spike let himself laugh. How could he not laugh around Pinkie, she had the wonderful ability to bring anypony out of their doldrums. She was the element of laughter, after all.

There was a light drizzle as Spike walked Pinkie back home. He extended his wing over her, insisting her rainbow umbrella hat would not be enough to keep her dry. She pressed in against his side, enjoying the warmth his dragon biology offered.

She stopped at the door, and turned to him. “I really enjoyed our date tonight,” she blushed as she spoke. “It was lovely, thank you.”

“T-That was a date?” Spike stammered. “What? How? When?”

“I don’t know if it was,” Pinkie Pie giggled, “but I’d like it to be.”

“You– you mean you actually like me?” Spike was in shock. “As in you like like me.”

Pinkie smiled as she nodded.

“Even though I am a dragon?”

Pinkie stepped forward and laid a gentle kiss on his lips, then pulled back. “I like like you. It doesn’t matter to me what you are, because I know who you are.”

Spike held a claw against his lips, unable to believe what had happened, despite the smile growing across his face.

“You can decide where we’ll go on our next date, Spikey.” She smiled as she opened the door. “Good night.”

Several night-owl ponies around Ponyville looked up in surprise at the strange meteorological phenomenon that occurred that night. Witnesses claimed the scheduled rain clouds were lit with bright flashes of green lightning, and the peels of thunder sounded like whoops of excitement.

Spikes morning afterglow had dissipated the moment he awoke.

“Dating, dating.” He tapped his quill against the checklist. Written at the top of the parchment was ‘A really good date with Pinkie Pie.’

He had gotten as far as ‘Step One: Ask Pinkie out.’ when he had drawn blank.

Books cluttered the floor of his room; nothing in the stacks had covered what to do on a date. Evidently he had spent years trying to woo Rarity, but had formed not even a single plan for if he had succeeded.

Picking up a new sheaf of paper, he scribbled out a letter.

Twilight, I need your help! I’ve got a date with Pinkie Pie and I have no idea what to do.

He hastily took it to his window, and sent the letter flaming towards Canterlot.

‘Twilight will know what to do. She’s one of Pinkie’s best friends, and she’s smart the smartest pony I know. She’s marrying a princess, so she must know how to take a mare out on a great date. And even if she doesn’t; she has her own private wing of the Canterlot archives. She’ll figure something out, I just know it. There was no way she would let me dow–’

His thoughts were interrupted as he belched out the reply letter.

“Oh, Twilight! You’re the best,” he whooped with joy as he opened the letter. “I knew I could count on you!”

His joy subsided when he read the letter.

Spike,

I will have to skip this weeks discussion. The nobles of Canterlot have not taken to the idea of Luna and I being wed. Celestia is trying to calm the citizens; and Luna and I have closed our courts to deal with the influx of petitions against our wedding.

I am so sorry, Spike. I promise I will make it up to you. I know how much you look forward to these letters as much as I do. I'll read your letter the moment I get a chance, I promise.

Love,

Twilight

Spike turned the letter over. There was nothing on the back. It wasn’t a joke. He hadn’t read it wrong. She’d not even opened his letter. She was too busy dealing with ponies who didn’t want their wedding to go ahead.

He scrambled back around the room on all fours, searching his books. Perhaps he had missed something. His heart soared when he picked spied a book under the bed. He could make out the word ‘Dating’ on the front, but dropped it in despair when he read the title in full. He was most certain that Radiometric Dating: Increasingly Incredible Isotopes would not be helpful in this situation.

He let out a frustrated roar, which startled the sleeping Owlowiscious.

“Sorry, Owly. Didn’t mean to wake you. I am just stressed about this date with Pinkie.”

“Who?”

“Pinkie Pie,” Spike groaned.

“Who?”

“You know, Pinkie Pie, Element of Laugh–” Spike slapped a claw to his face. He hadn’t fallen for that gag in years. The owl seemed to rock with laughter, or at least the owlish equivalent of. “Oh, I see, that’s it? Joke at my expense.” Spike let out a chuckle. “I guess it is the sort of thing she would laugh at too…”

“Who?”

“Pink– Fool me once, bird!” Spike poked his forked tongue out at the owl. “Now go back to sleep, I promise I will be quiet.” He gave the bird a loving scratch, as it settled back into sleep.

Spike quietly went about restacking his books. He had made a mess, and while he didn’t need to sort the books he kept in his room to the same degree as the library main, they most certainly needed to be off the floor. It took one very rare, first edition print of The Canterberry Tails being pierced by a claw as the dragon had hastily made his way to the bathroom one night to thoroughly convince him of the need to keep his books off of the floor.

He had finished righting the last pile of books when a powerful shockwave of raspberry magic flooded the room, toppling his carefully stacked possessions. At the epicenter of the shockwave, atop his bed, stood a beaming Twilight Sparkle.

“Spike!” She squealed with happiness as she jumped over and hugged him. “Oh, congratulations! I can’t believe you two are finally going out.”

“Wh– Twilight? What are you doing here? I thought you were dealing with Canterlot nobles today.”

“Oh, we got that sorted out days ago,” she responded with pride. “It was Celestia’s idea really, quite brilliant.”

“But you just sent me a letter saying you couldn’t read my letter until later.”

“Oh, well, I guess technically I haven’t read it yet. Not exactly. But I did read it three days ago. Or is it ‘I will read it in four days’? I’m not exactly sure, I still haven’t got this whole grammar thing sorted out: I’m only up to chapter nine of Dr. Streetmentioner's Time Traveler's Handbook of 1001 Tense Formations. But don’t worry Spike, I can say with no doubt that I will have read it three days ago, four days from now.”

“Twilight…” Spike was worried. Normally when Twilight didn’t make sense, she was all twitchy. But she was happy and gushing over Spikes new romantic interest. Which she somehow knew about three days– “Twilight! Have you been sneaking through the Starswirl the Bearded wing again?”

Twilight laughed nervously, “Uhh… guilty as charged.” She wore the most sheepish grin he had ever seen.

“Twilight! Princess Celestia forbade you from using Time Magic again after last time. You aren’t even allowed in that wing anymore!”

“Oh, that is only because Princess Cheaty-Pants wants to keep her edge in our chess games.” Twilight huffed indignantly. “Did you know she has been feeding herself information about my moves before I even make them! Oh, she’ll get hers next time we play. Unless of course we cause a space-time paradox and tear a hole in the fabric of reality. Actually, that might be bad, I don’t think even Rarity could fix that. Maybe I should just confront her instead.”

“Wait, so Twilight, if you’re from the future, you must know where I took Pinkie for our date, how did it go? What did I do? You have to tell me.”

“Oh, it went well, you both loved it. You took her– oh, dear.” A frown formed on her face. “I’m so sorry Spike. But I guess this now explains the angry letter you sent m–”

Another flash of raspberry magic, and Twilight was gone. Spike stood there in shock, watching the now empty space before him. Then he let out a scream.

Rarity sat listening intently as Spike told her everything that had happened. By the end of the story she was in a complete paroxysm of laughter.

“So Canterlot is in an uproar about their wedding. That’s strange, I didn’t think it was that controversial an issue. I wonder what Celestia did, well, will do, to sort it out.”

“Rarity, please,” Spike moaned. “Twilight and Luna’s relationship is tangential to what we’re dealing with here. This is about me and Pinkie.”

“Of course, you’re right my dear.” Rarity smiled. “So, you’re here to find out where to take Pinkie on a date. From the sounds of it, your last one went… smashing.” Rarity let out another laugh.

“I hope Lipizzano charged you for that bottle of wine,” Spike muttered darkly. “But that’s just it, I want to take her somewhere I don’t have to worry about making a bucking foal of myself in front of her and everypony else!”

“You know Pinkie, she would have fun wherever you took her. Yes, I may have set up that little tête-à-tête last night at a restaurant, but only because we were all sick of watching you two skirt around the issue. But I can’t organise every date for you.

“Spike, you have to believe in yourself.” Rarity patted his claw with a hoof. “Pinkie adores you, and will be happy no matter what you choose. What did she enjoy last night?”

“Ummm,” Spike had to think. He’d been so distracted the previous night, first by Pinkie, then by making a foal of himself in front of her, that he wasn’t sure. “Well, she liked the dancing, even though… well, you know the story. And really enjoyed the cannolis.”

“So, sweets and dancing. I think you can come up with something with that.”

“But–”

“No buts!” Rarity ushered him to the door. “While I don’t mind helping you out, I have customers who will be arriving soon.” She pecked him on the cheek as she pushed him out the door. “Good luck, my dear.”

Spike crept through the streets early Friday morning. The ponies who were milling about at this time of day paid little attention to the dragon skulking about, dashing from alley to alley. His very association with the Elements of Harmony inured them to any strange behavior. For his part, Spike paid them no mind either. There was only one pony whose attention he did not want to earn.

“Hiya Spikey!” The pink mare popped out of a nearby crate. “Whatcha doing?”

“P–Pinkie? What are you doing here?”

“Talking to you,” she grinned. “What are you doing.”

“Uhh… talking to you?”

“Ooo, you’re good!” Pinkie scratched her chin, unsure how to win this game.

Spike lifted his nose to the air, and took a sniff. “Is that burning cupcakes I smell?”

“Oh no! I forgot about the cupcakes!” Pinkie jumped out of the box she had appeared from, and ran down the street to Sugarcube Corner.

Glad he was able to distract her, he made his way to Bon Bon’s shop. He’d hoped she’d seen the letter he sent her last night, and that she would have his order ready for pick up. Looking around to make sure he wasn’t being watched, he stepped through the door.

“Ahh, Spike. There you are.” Bon Bon stood behind the counter; she did not look happy. “Next time you decide to do a mail order, please send it in a way that doesn’t risk lighting my satin sheets on fire.”

“Ignore her, Spikey-boy,” Lyra laughed as she trotted out from the kitchen. “She just gets grumpy if somepony wakes her in the middle of the night. Celestia knows how many times I’ve ended up on the couch just for–”

“Ahem. Your order is ready, Spike.” A particularly flustered Bon Bon placed a box of chocolates on the counter. “That’ll be seven bits.”

Spike pulled out the necessary bits, and thanked Bon Bon as she reentered the kitchen. As he started for the door, he caught a glimpse of something across the street.

“Lyra,” Spike whispered. “Could I ask a favor of you?”

“Mmm, what’s up?”

“Could you go across the street, and distract that bale of hay over there while I leave?”

Lyra squinted out the window, trying to see what Spike was pointing to. “You mean the one wearing the silly glasses and baseball hat?”

“That’s the one.” Spike nodded. “It’d be a real help to me if you could distract her.”

“Her, huh?” Lyra looked at Spike with a grin on her face. “Yeah, I think I can do that for ya.”

Lyra stepped out and cross the road. In her loudest voice, she addressed the bale of hay, “Hey there good looking, come here often?”

Bon Bon cast off her apron, and stormed out of the shop. “What does she think she is doing?”

Spike felt a pang of guilt, but the yelling across the street certainly gave him the distraction he wanted. He slipped out the door, and down and alley way, on to his next destination.

“Spike? It is not often we zee you in our ‘umble spa.”

“Huh? Oh… Hi… Aloe…” Spike struggled to regain his breath, leaning heavily against the door of the spa. “Sorry, I’m just, uhh–”

“‘iding from somepony?” Aloe smiled, watching the panicking dragon regain his shattered composure. “Who would ‘ave Ponyville’s most fearsome dragon cowering ‘ere?”

“I’m not hiding…” Spike replied, as he cautiously looked out the window, breathing a sigh of relief that he’d lost Pinkie.

“Non, of course not.” Aloe lifted a hoof to her mouth and chuckled daintily.

Pinkie Pie burst through the door. “Aloe, have you seen Spikey?”

Aloe looked across the room to where Spike was hiding. He had pitifully picked up a potted fern, and attempted to pose as a very awkward looking sculpture. “Non, Pinkie, I have not seen him.”

“Awww, phooey,” Pinkie pouted, staring in Spikes direction. “He’s taking me on a date tonight, but he won’t tell me where. I’m the pony who is supposed to do surprises. Not the surprising!”

“Ooo, so you are dating zee dragon? Ooh, Pinkie, congratulations.” Both Aloe and Pinkie were looking directly at Spike, but only Aloe seemed to notice him there. “If I zee him, I vill let you know,” she said, winking at Spike.

“Okie dokie lokie,” Pinkie beamed as she bounced out the door and into the streets.

“So, you are dating our Pinkie Pie?” Aloe grinned. “Non, non, non! This vill not do! Lotus!”

Lotus stepped through the doors to join them. “Yes, Aloe– Oh, ‘ello Spike. Why do you ‘ave our fern?”

“Spike ‘ere is hiding from Pinkie Pie. They are going out somewhere tonight and he is trying to keep it a surprise.” Aloe grinned. “But look at his scales.”

“Oh, non, non, non! And those claws,” Lotus replied, a look of horror on her face.

“And it looks like he has not polished his fins.”

“And his wings, look at zat leather!”

The spa twins nodded. “Zis vill not do!” they echoed each other.

Lotus opened the door to the spa main, and called out. “Rarity? Spike has a date tonight, and he desperately needs a–”

Rarity burst through the doors, eyes glistening with excitement. “… makeover!”

Spike struggled in vain as the three pulled him through the doors.

Spike left the spa an hour later. It had thrown his schedule to the wind, but he did not care. He glistened and gleamed in the sun, every scale shining, his dorsal fins sparkling. They had blunted his claws and given him such a massage that every muscle in his was body loose and limber. Perhaps he would have to invest in one of those, what did Aloe call it? An angle grinder?

He staggered his way back to the library with everything he needed. Now he just needed to pack.

Spike packed the picnic basket, wrapping the top with the blanket, so that a certain curious pony wouldn’t try and sneak a peek. He picked up the case containing the old portable phonograph player he’d borrowed from Sweetie Belle, who had been kind enough to lend it to him on the condition he only play good music on it.

With everything in claw, he made his way to Sugarcube Corner.

Pinkie was waiting out the front, she had dressed warm, as he had instructed her too. Once again she was wearing the cute cerulean and pale yellow striped scarf she’d worn on their first date. She sat on the front step grinning as he came into view.

“Spikey! You’re here, yay!” She bounded toward him, and wrapped her forearms around his neck in a powerful hug.

“Hey Pinkie,” Spike replied, attempting to balance the picnic basket and portable phonograph case. He put them down, and hugged Pinkie tight. She started to squirm in his arms, and he laughed as she tried to stick her nose in the picnic basket. “Nope, not yet. Our date is still a surprise. Do you promise to be good until we get there?”

“Mmmm,” Pinkie nuzzled his neck, causing his thoughts to slow.

“Pinkie, stop that!” He laughed. “Pinkie Pie promise me.”

“Awww, but I want to know,” she whispered into his ear, her breath warm on his cheek.

“While I could stay wrapped in your arms like this forever –” he turned, looking directly into her brilliant blue eyes “– we won’t be going on our date until you Pinkie Pie promise you’ll be good.”

“Okay Spikey,” she relented. “Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye.” The actions she mimed were difficult, but she managed even while pinned to Spikes chest.

He gave her a quick peck on the cheek before putting her down. “Good, now let us get going. The night awaits.”

Spike set the basket down beside the shore of the lake. Luna’s moon reflected brightly in the waters, and the stars above were particularly magnificent. It helped that his soon-to-be sister-in-law felt guilty about how her guards had treated him. That she controlled the night sky and had promised him a wonderful evening was just icing on the cake.

And that she had most certainly given them, though in Spike’s eyes, it paled in comparison to the beautiful mare sitting next to him.

“So now we’re here whats in the basket?” Pinkie Pie scrambled towards the basket. “Mmmm it smells gooooood.”

Spike managed to grab her by the tail before she got to the basket. Her strength always surprised him, but he managed to pull her back into his chest. “Sorry Pinkie, you can’t spoil the game–”

Pinkie drew in a sharp gasp. “Oooo, are we going to play Pin the Tail on the Pony?”

“Close,” Spike chuckled. He grabbed a small strip of cloth and gently tied it around her eyes. “There, can you see anything?”

When Pinkie shook her head, he sat her down on the blanket. “Good. Now, nopony knows sweets like Pinkie Pie, right?”

“Nopey dopey! I’m considered Ponyville’s confectionary connoisseur commander in chief.”

“Well, I have a selection of sweets and pastries here. I’m going to feed you one at a time, and you are going to tell me what each one is. If you guess them all, I will give you a reward. If you don’t, you’ll owe me a reward.”

Pinkie clapped her hooves excitedly. “Oh this is going to be so much fun Spikey you’re so amazing.”

Spike started with some easy ones. He pulled out a small shortbread biscuit, and put it into her open mouth. “Mmmm, that’s one of Sugar Forest’s shortbread biscuits.”

Next, he held a Red velvet cupcake for her, and watched as she gently took the small cake from his claws. Once again, she had guessed the delicacy. He went through the remaining foods from Sugarcube Corner: princess cakes, fruit flans, hazelnut torte, profiteroles, marzipan macarons, meringues, chocolate truffles and glazed fruit custard tarts. He sat rapt, as she smiled and giggled with excitement and anticipation of each treat.

Any time she was thirsty, he would help her sip a from a small flute of fruity champagne he’d brought along.

He moved on to the chocolates, Pinkie squealing with happiness as each new flavor hit her tongue: orange brandy; wintergreen; creamy hazelnut; butterscotch; and cinnamon. Pinkie particularly enjoyed the chilli flavoured chocolates.

“I have one more treat, Pinkie. But I warn you, it’s going to be a hard on to guess.”

Pinkie laughed, “I don’t think so. I know every sweet there is!”

“Okay, well, see if you can guess what this one is.” He leaned forward, and laid a very light, very gentle kiss on her lips.

Pinkie snorted with laughter as she fell back in surprise. “Hey, that’s not fair Spikey, tricking me like that.”

“I thought you knew every sweet, Pinkie,” he grinned as he helped her back to her hooves.

“Mmm.” Pinkie smiled. “Maybe I need another taste of that one. Then I might get it.” She moved toward the sound of his breathing, and leaned in for a deep kiss.

Spike shook with nervousness and anticipation. This kiss was a lot more passionate than the one he’d given to her. She slowly pushed her tongue between his mouth, but pulled back quickly when she met his very sharp teeth. Even though she pulled back, she did not stop kissing him passionately.

Spike had read about that kind of kissing. He’d read about it in one of Rarity’s terrible romance novels. He nervously pushed his tongue forward, and she met it with her own. She quickly pushed away, laughing.

“Did I do it wrong?” Spike worried. He wasn’t really sure what he was doing here, and Rarity’s books had never mentioned anything about the marefriend pushing away and laughing.

“Sorry Spikey. You didn’t do anything wrong. It’s just, ummm… dragon tongues are very different. ” Pinkie blushed a raspberry as deep as her mane. “It tickles.” She held a hoof to her mouth and stifled a giggle. “Okay, let’s try again, I promise I won’t laugh this time. Pinkie Promise.”

“Mmm, not quite yet… you didn’t guess every flavor.” He chuckled as he stood. Pinkie pulled her blind off. “So now, you owe me a reward.”

Pinkie Pie pawed at the blanket with her hoof, suddenly very sheepish and embarrassed. Spike adored the look on her face, pleased that he could make her so bashful. “W–what did you have in mind, Spikey?”

Spike opened the case with the old phonograph in it, and put on the record he had brought with him. Cranking the handle, he wound the gears up and put the needle down. Soft, romantic melodies came out of the small speaker.

Spike held his claw out to Pinkie. “Miss Pinkie Pie, would you do the honour of giving me this dance?”

Pinkie beamed as she put her hoof in his claw. “Aww, Spikey. I’d love to!”

He pulled her up close to his chest, and she nuzzled in close. Spike looked down into her blue eyes. “Pinkie, do you trust me?”

“Hmm?” Pinkie pulled her head away from his chest. “Sorry, you’re so warm. Of course I trust you Spike–”

“Good…” Spike grinned, pulling her in close, and locking his arms under hers. With a powerful beat of his wings, he lifted the two of them into the air.

“–Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee” Pinkie screamed as they rocketed into the air. “Spike, what are you doing?” She laughed as they flew, the ground spinning below them.

“Dancing,” Spike shouted over the rushing of the air. “Dragon style.” When Spike was convinced they were at sufficient enough altitude, he stopped their ascent. He slowed his wing beat, and they bobbed gently up and down with each stroke of his wings. “Do you hear that?”

Pinkie strained her ear, but she could make out the soft sound of the music playing below. She nodded, looking into Spike’s eyes. “I do.”

Spike smiled as he looked into her eyes, and sang.

“♪The stars are aglow and tonight how their light sets me dreaming,♫” he crooned in his deep, draconic voice. Pinkie giggled, and he shifted his weight and they spun in a circle.

“♪My love, do you know that your eyes are like stars brightly beaming?♫” Spike continued his dance in the sky. Swinging his tail behind him to turn, he was able to mimic a slow waltz. Pinkie laughed and smiled, looking into his eyes. He noticed how filled they were filled with joy.

Spinning so that his back was towards the moon, he crooned as her face lit with the pale soft glow. “♪I bring you and sing you a Moonlight Serenade.♫”

Swooping into a dive, they plummeted toward the lake below. With a quick flick of his tail, he righted them, and he hovered above the surface of the lake.

“♪Let us stray till break of day, in love's valley of dreams.♫” He sung, as the surface of the lake rippled from the beating of his wings. “♪Just you and I, a summer sky, a heavenly breeze kissing the trees.♫”

“♪So don’t let me–” Spike was cut off by the passionate kiss from his dance partner.

Spike coughed and spluttered, as the two of them resurfaced from the chilly lake. Pinkie was giggling as they tread the water. She swam toward him, shivering, and pulled herself in close.

“So” – she snorted out a laugh – “I guess I shouldn’t kiss my boyfriend while he’s flying?”

“No,” Spike agreed. “But he should be okay while swimming.”

When Spike had written to Twilight, asking if she could help him find a nice restaurant in Canterlot to take Pinkie Pie to, she had gone a little overboard. Luna had booked them a table at what she promised was the best restaurant in all of Equestria.

He wasn’t sure who, but one of the princess’ had even decided to send the private Royal Coach from Canterlot. Spike had groaned when the train arrived, the last car bearing a purple flag with a green dragon heraldic sigil. The porters ushered Pinkie Pie and himself to the private car.

Spike watched the scenery pass by as the train to Canterlot sped along the tracks. Pinkie Pie skipped around the car examining everything the private car had to offer.

“They got us cupcakes!” Pinkie shouted with glee. “Ooooh, they’re Mr. and Mrs. Cake’s cakes.” She bounced back into the room. “Awww, Pound and Pumpkin even left me a message. ‘Please come and see us Auntie Pinkie.’ Can we Spikey?” Pinkie jumped onto the seat next to him.

“Of course we can. We’ve got a whole day in Canterlot.” Spike answered, reaching for the box of cakes. He managed to pick out an eclair before Pinkie Pie devoured the rest of the sweets in one mouthful.

Pinkie returned to exploring the car. “Oooo, Spikey! Come and check out this bed.”

Spike slowly lumbered into the room. Despite the smoothness of the ride, he still struggled walking through a moving carriage. He stepped through the door to the room Pinkie Pie was in. She was jumping on the bed, nearly touching the ceiling with every bounce.

“Pinkie –” he stared down at the disheveled bed “– I don’t think the Princess’ would want you to use their bed as a trampoline.”

“Then why isn’t there a trampoline?” Pinkie slowed her bouncing. “Oh wait, maybe there is. I’ll find it!”

Spike tried to straighten the bed as Pinkie jumped down to continue rummaging through the various cabinets around the room, presumably looking for the royal trampoline.

“Oooh! Spike, there’s a letter for you.” Pinkie passed the note to Spike. “Oh, and they have balloons!”

Spike opened the envelope.

Dear Spike,

Have fun, but be safe.

Twilight.

Spike felt time slow, the air resistant to his movement, like he was trying to turn in syrup. He lunged forward and grabbed the small box from Pinkie before she could open it. He lumbered towards the window, opening it and then throwing the small box outside.

“Awww!” Pinkie pouted. “Now we don’t have balloons. Oh wait! Yes we do.” Giggling, she pulled several colored actual balloons from her mane. “Maybe somepony else will find those other balloons and have a party too!”

Spike excused himself, returning to his seat. He wish he could have written it off as a prank by his sister, but recalling a very embarrassing, awkward discussion she’d had with him when he was younger he knew it was no prank. Twilight still retained a certain social awkwardness about her, even after her coronation.

His cheeks flushed scarlet at the memory. Try as he might, he could not shake the memories from his mind.

The talk. The books. The diagrams and flowcharts. The film.

The written exam!

The train arrived at Canterlot station late morning. Three ponies approached them as they disembarked the train. Spike recognised the two guards approaching, Stout Shield and Tower Defense as members of Twilight’s guard. He didn’t recognise the cloaked black unicorn between them. The unicorn stallion stepped forward, his posture stiff and his head high.

He cracked his hoof against the ground.

Crack.

Crack.

Crack.

“I, Black Rod,” the stallion bellowed, “am commanded this day by Her Majesty Princess Celestia to deliver unto you this communication bearing the royal seal of the throne–” he shouted the last part, in a commanding voice “– of Equestria!”

The stallion levitated a scroll. Unfurling it, he read.

“Her Highness, Princess Celestia welcomes the Most Honorable Spike the Dragon of Spikeopolis, to her humble lands. Whilst you are visiting our lands, you have been extended this seal –” Black Rod levitated a small wooden box, which Spike caught “– which shall identify you as a diplomat between our two nations.”

Spike looked around, nearly every pony at the station had stopped and watched the display.

“We hope your mission is a success, and do hope you have time to visit.

“Signed,” he paused. “Princess Celestia.”

“What–” Spike started.

“P.S. Thank you very much for for the cake, it was absolutely delicious, and unmistakably regal.”

Black Rod rolled the scroll up, and placed it back in his cloak. He gave a sharp bow, and left. Spike watched the receding unicorn, completely dumbstruck.

Pinkie had opened the small wooden box he was holding. “Oooo, Spikey, what’s this? It’s shiney!”

Spike looked down, and it was indeed shiney. A polished silver medal, a shield with an open book and a dragon claw on it. Below the insignia, he read the words.

Timent Dorkus Draco.

Spike chuckled. “Celestia, you sure don’t do things in halves!”

Spike, Pinkie Pie and the two guards moved through the streets. Stout and Tower had informed him that they were not able to leave the train station until he donned the insignia. He was thankful that, aside from the Princesses and a few scholars at the Canterlot University, no ponies studied ancient Mannulus these days.

Their first stop was to Sugarcube Shoppe, the Canterlot headquarters for the Cakes franchise. It was a quaint little three story building, far more subdued than their old bakery in Ponyville. But the awnings had been decorated with small cake motifs, enough that it was identifiable as the Cake’s business, but subdued enough that it fit in with the buildings around it.

“Auntie Pinkie!” Pound and Pumpkin dashed forward to hug Pinkie Pie.

“Hey, you two!” Pinkie beamed, as she returned their embrace. “Oh, I missed you so much.”

Spike ventured to the counter when Pinkie and the two foals started a trio rendition of the Piggy Dance song.

“Heya there Spike! Long time no see,” Mr. Cake greeted. “Cup, sweetie? Pinkie and Spike are here.”

“Oh, hello dears!” Cup Cake came out of the kitchen. She trotted over to Pinkie Pie and gave her a warm hug. “Pinkie it’s been too long.”

Mr Cake turned to Spike. “Can I get you something Spike? Coffee? Muffin? A slice of cake?”

“Yeah, a coffee and a slice of chocolate cake would be nice.” He frowned at Pinkie. “Somepony ate all the cakes on the train. Though maybe to be safe I should order a milkshake and a second slice of cake for her.” Smiling, Spike pulled a few bits out of his bag.

“Don’t worry about that, Spike.” Mr. Cake pushed the bits back towards Spike. “Pinkie’s like family to us. Consider it on the house.”

Spike returned the bits to his bag, and Mr. Cake started on the coffee and milkshake. “So how’s business been lately?”

“It’s been quiet, but this is the calm before the storm, my boy! I dare say we’ll be seeing more business after the wedding.” Mr. Cake grinned, as he made his way to the cake selections. “Princess Twilight requested the wedding cake from us personally!”

“Wow, that’s amazing, Mr. Cake; congratulations! A Royal wedding, that’ll cause a real boom in business. Assuming, of course, it doesn’t go like most royal weddings.

“AJ and Dash have a bet going. Dash has money on Queen Bugface showing up again. AJ thinks Discord will turn the dresses into pudding or something.” Spike chuckled. “You should have seen Rarity’s face when AJ said that.”

“Well, so long as he stays away from the cake.” Mr. Cake laughed, pushing the now filled tray forward. “Alright, here’s everything.”

“Thanks Mr. Cake,” Spike replied as he picked up the tray. He managed to balance as he walked on his rear legs and placed the tray on the table. Pinkie Pie joined him, and shared her cake with Pumpkin. Pound sat next to Spike.

He picked up his fork, but before he could even take a bite Pound Cake looked up at him with large, soulful eyes.

“Hey buddy. What’s up?”

“Chocolate cake is my favorite,” Pound Cake responded, matter-of-factly.

Spike looked down at his cake. It looked great. It looked reeeeeeeally great. He sighed, and passed the plate across to the foal next to him.

Spike picked up his coffee, watching Pound bury his face into the cake. The cake didn’t look as appealing now it was smeared across the foals face. Across the table Pinkie Pie was clapping encouragement for Pumpkin, who was making an effort to levitate the fork full of cake to her mouth.

“Pound! Pumpkin! What are you two doing?” Mr. Cake stormed across the room.

“It’s okay, Mr. Cake.” Spike sighed.

“It most certainly is not!” He towered over the two foals. “You two are supposed to be grounded. No sweets! Now, off to your room.” The two foals grumbled as they walked up the stairs.

Mr. Cake left with the two dirty plates, and returned with two more slices of cake.

‘Luna’s choice in restaurants sure leaves something to be desired.’

Spike and Pinkie sat awkwardly in the stifling atmosphere. They’d received several unkind looks when they arrived, the other patrons visibly unnerved by the standing royal guards with the pair. Less than five minutes after he and Pinkie sat down, the couple closest to Spike had called the waiter and moved to another table.

Of course this could have been his presence, or the guards standing between their table and the rest of the restaurant. Most likely though was Pinkie Pie’s loud giggling over a joke Spike had told to lighten the mood.

“Sheesh, tough crowd,” Pinkie Pie said, while pretending to straighten her tie. At least that was what Spike assumed she was doing, as she wasn’t wearing a tie.

That could also have been the issue. The stuffy nobles around them all wore formal attire, the mares in the finest haute couture, the men in their finest bespoke evening jackets and ties. In contrast to Pinkie Pie and himself, who were both au naturale.

Well, he was almost au naturale. Stout and Tower still hadn’t let him take off that stupid medal.

They stuck out like a dragon in a restaurant. It was the most apt metaphor he could think of at the time.

When the meal came, Spike was sorely disappointed. He had expected that for forty bits, his meal would be large enough to fill his stomach. Pinkie Pie’s was no better.

“Excuse me, waiter?” Pinkie waved the waiter over. She wore a very confused expression on her face. “Ummm, I think the chef forgot to make my meal. There’s only garnish on this plate.”

“Mademoiselle, zat is your meal.” The waiter harrumphed rudely.

“Ooooh!” Pinkie looked around at the other patrons. “No wonder all the mares look so starved.”

Spike was certain he’d heard one of the guards laugh, though neither moved, so he couldn’t be sure which one.

“Hey Pinkie?” Spike stood, holding his hand out to her. “Want to go find somewhere to get a burger and some hayfries?”

They managed to find a street vendor selling food to the younger crowd readying for a night of partying. Pinkie groaned with pleasure as she ate her falafel kebab. Spike enjoyed his hayfries and burger.

As the four of them walked through Canterlot Commons, Spike smiled to himself. He knew the perfect place to finish the evening. Sure, it wasn’t overly romantic, but he was certain Pinkie Pie would love it all the same.

The place was packed.

“Hey, Pony Joe! Long time no see,” Spike called out.

“Hey, Spikey boy!” Donut Joe greeted from the counter. “And if it isn’t Agent Double-Oh Pink. How are you two doin?”

“Hiya Joe!” Pinkie bounced towards the counter.

“Anything the lady asks for, Joe.” Spike dropped his bag of bits on the counter.

Donut Joe turned to Pinkie, who already had her rump in the air, her nose pressed hard against the display case. “Hope that there’s a bottomless bag o’ bits, Spikey, cause I think you’re gunna be here a while.”

“I’ll start with a dozen donuts with super sprinkles.”

Spike ordered a few donuts for himself, groaning loudly with exaggerated pleasure. Stout and Tower watched, their mouths watering. Spike was well aware that Donut Joe’s was a common haunt amongst the royal guards. Spike could tell at a glance most of the other patrons were off duty guards.

“Hey Joe,” Spike called the pony back. “How about a few donuts for my boys over there? Stout, Tower, what will you have?”

A cough from the gentlecolt beside him drew their attention. “On duty guards aren’t supposed to eat.”

Stout and Tower let out a grumble simultaneously. Pinkie let out a gasp that could be heard over the din of the donut shop. “You can’t eat while you are working that would be terrible like if I couldn’t sample the cupcakes while I was cooking I’d not be able to tell if they were any good so I have to eat while I am working I couldn’t imagine not being able to eat…” Her eyes wandered back to the second round of donuts Joe had set before her. “these… delicious… tasting… what was I talking about?”

“Guards don’t need to test cooking while they work,” the heavy set stallion next to Pinkie said. “We just guard. But when we’re off duty, we can enjoy anything we want.” He took a bite of the sugar frosted jam donut, staring back at the two with a smile on his face.

Spike noticed many of the other patrons, now audibly enjoying their orders.

“Oh man, I couldn’t eat another bite. Maybe just one more.”

“Joe, is this a new recipe? These are amazing.”

“Have you tried the custard ones?”

“Oh yeah, I think that’s a new favorite of mine.”

Spike chuckled as Pinkie joined in the conversation with the stallions about the different donuts, oblivious to the hazing that was going on.

The laughter was interrupted by a guardspony bursting through the door.

“There you are!” he shouted. Calling back out the door, “Captain Silver, we found them.”

The captain came through the door, barking orders at everypony. “Everypony move. The dragon and the pink one need to be escorted to the castle now! Shields up, everypony. Keep those barriers strong.”

Spike found himself and Pinkie surrounded by royal guards, uniformed or not. Captain Silver led the twenty strong group of soldiers through the streets. The streets were in complete pandemonium. Carts were turned over, street vendors were shouting. Guards were pouring out of the alleyways, residents hanging out from their windows to see what the commotion was.

Spike wrapped a wing over Pinkie. Whatever was happening, the guards were protecting all sides with the barriers, but if somepony was out to hurt them, they would have to get through him first. Spike worried, he could feel Pinkie Pie shaking under his wing. Whatever was happening was frightening her, and that made him angry.

“Watch those windows. Keep an eye on our flank. Skip,” the captain called to one of the pegasi. “Inform the commander we are ten-seventy-six to the castle; eta ten minutes.”

They moved quickly through the streets. By the time they had reached the castle, there were some forty plus guards protecting them. Most stayed at the entrance to the castle, but Captain Silver lead them through the halls to wherever they were going.

“Your highness, we have extracted the two as commanded. We’ve increased the patrols around the castle, do not fear.”

Spike stepped through the doors to the room where Twilight, Luna and Celestia were sitting, eating a meal.

“Very good. Thank you, Captain.” Twilight nodded. “That is all.”

“Hiya Princess. And Princess. And Princess.” Pinkie snorted with laughter as she bounced into the room.

“What’s happened?” Spike moved quickly to the table. “Is everything alright? Is everypony okay?”

Luna and Twilight burst out laughing. Pinkie fell on the floor rolling.

“Sorry, Spikey,” Twilight said, as she managed to stop her giggles. “Everything is alright. Just wanted to liven up your evening.”

“The fun was doubled, was it not?” Luna chuckled.

Spike turned to Pinkie, who was having trouble breathing. “You knew about this?”

“Pinkie Sense has prankie sense too,” she managed to get out, between fits of laughter. “Oh girls, that was such a good one.”

“Using the royal guard for pranks. You two will never grow up.” Celestia tut-tutted, with a grin on her face.

“A prank? The streets were pandemonium!” Spike was holding his chest, trying to regain his breath.

“Hmm,” Luna stroked her chin. “Mayhaps we were a little zealous in our orders to bring them back from the restaurant, my love.”

“They weren’t at the restaurant.”

Everypony turned to Celestia.

“What do you mean?” Twilight asked.

“They left for Donut Joe’s shop two hours ago.” Celestia took a small bite of her salad. “The guards have been trying to find them since.” Twilight and Luna paled.

“Please, join us.” Celestia motioned for Spike and Pinkie to sit. “I already sent out an apology letter to everypony in the area this morning, explaining that it was a drill. Don’t worry, the two of you manage to get everything sorted during tonight’s courts.”

“But what? How–” Twilight stammered. "Luna and I only planned this–"

“Now, if you will excuse me, I must rest for the evening.” Celestia walked to the door. “It is good to see you again, Spike, Pinkie Pie.

“Oh, and Twilight?” The princess grinned as she stepped through the door. “Checkmate.”

Spike rolled over in the lazy Saturday morning sun. He grasped around the bed trying to find his poofy pink pillow. It was strange that he couldn’t find it. His pillow didn’t have to open the bakery today. His pink pillow had an apprentice cushion to handle that this morning. His pillow wasn’t there, and that made him grumble.

As he slowly opened his eyes, he watched his pillow launch herself onto the bed singing. “♪Happy twomonthiversary to you and me today. I can't believe we’ve been dating a for so long already time sure flies doesn't it well it seems like only yesterday you asked me out. But now it’s a two months today, hey!♫”

“Pillows don’t sing!” Spike grumbled, pulling her into a hug against his chest. “Pillows are for cuddles.”

Pinkie Pie giggled while she tried to squirm out of his grip in vain. “Spikey, I made your favorite, banana and candy waffles in chocolate syrup.”

“Shh, shh,” Spike cooed as he stroked her mane. “No, no crazy Pinkie recipes. Just sleep.”

As he began to snore again, Pinkie blew raspberries on his stomach. One thing she had learned in their two months of dating was that while dragons had extremely thick skin, their underbellies were exceptionally ticklish.

“No, no!” Spike squirmed to get away. “No, Pinkie. Stop. Please?!”

“Nope!” Pinkie pause from her torture. “Not unless you Pinkie Pie promise to get up. Everypony’s supposed to go see the new foals.” Pinkie continued assaulting the uncooperative dragon.

“Okay… I Pinkie Pie promise…” he yelled between bursts of laughter. “Cross my heart… and hope to fly… stick a cupcake in my e–oww!” Spike sat up, rubbing the eye he had just poked with a claw while Pinkie Pie rolled off the bed laughing.

“♪That still counts!♫” she sang, as she bounced towards the stairs. He climbed out of bed and made his way to the bathroom, determined to wash his face at least.

Spike groaned as Pinkie dragged him to the Ponyville hospital. She got a little foal-crazy, and had badgered Fluttershy and Big Mac to let her come and visit as soon as possible.

“Howdy thar, Spike,” Applejack laughed as she greeted him. “Y’all seem to have something stuck on yer tail.”

Caramel and Ginger laughed as Pinkie Pie dropped Spike’s tail from her mouth and stopped to talk. “Hi AJ! Hi Caramel! Hi Ginger!”

“Oh! Howdy Pinkie Pie, didn’t see you there.” Applejack gave her friend a hug.

“Auntie Pinkie! Auntie Pinkie!” Ginger Gold skipped towards the pink mare, and wrapped her in a hug. “When are you going to come and make cupcakes for us again?”

Spike turned to Applejack as Pinkie pulled a cupcake from her mane. He was certain that wasn’t there last night. “Where’s Granny Smith and Apple Bloom? They already there?”

“Nope,” Applejack winced. “Apple Bloom has been working on a wheelchair for Granny. They’ll be here soo–” Applejack reached up and held onto her stetson as a blur sped past them.

The only thing they could hear from the object rapidly receding into the distance was the screams of an old mare. “Aaaaaaaapplllleee Bloooooooooom slooooooow thisssss craaaaazy thiiiing doooownnnn.”

“Awww!” Ginger Gold whined. “I want to ride on Granny’s new chair!”

Spike draped a wing to the ground, and turned to Ginger. “How about a dragon ride to the hospital? Nearly as cool, but I won’t shoot flames like Granny’s chair. The mayor might tell me off again.”

“Yeah!” Ginger clambered up onto Spikes back, hooking his hooves around the base of Spikes wing.

They continued walking towards the hospital, when Ginger started hissing for Spike’s attention. “Spike… psst Spike!”

Spike craned his neck around. “What’s up Ginger? Want to get down?”

Ginger shook his head. “See that pink filly over there? That’s the girl I told you about.” – he pointed in the direction they were walking – “Could we make a detour? And be cool, okay?”

“I’ll be cooler than Rainbow Dash!” Spike chuckled, and excused himself from the group. He put on what he assumed was his coolest expression as they approached the filly unicorn. Spike smiled, recognising the stallion accompanying her.

“Ginger?" the little pink unicorn giggled while blushing. "Oh my Celestia! What are you doing?”

“Oh, hey Diamond Ring.” Ginger inspected a hoof, as if nothing was odd about the situation. Spike was impressed with the cool nonchalance Ginger displayed. “Just taking my dragon out for a ride, you know?”

Spike had to hold in the laugh, he wasn’t going to ruin Ginger’s image in front of his crush. He nodded towards the amber stallion, who was evidently out for the morning with his daughter. He stared open-mouthed at the young colt riding a dragon. “Saw–weeeeeeeeeet!”

“Well, we better get going, got lots to do today. See you on Monday, Diamond.” Ginger flashed her a smile. Pinching Spike with his legs, he yelled, “Hi ho Spikey, away!”

‘I’ll let him have this,’ Spike thought, stepping to the side and beating his powerful wings as they took to the air. Over his shoulder, he could hear the little filly talking to her father. “Do you think Granddaddy Rich would buy me a riding dragon?”

When they landed, rejoining the others, Ginger was grinning as he gloated. “Thanks Spike, you’re the best! Let’s see Lightning beat that!”

The group huddled into the hospital room, the eight of them crowding around the bed where Fluttershy lay with the twins. “Everypony, these are our daughters: Autumn Gold and Sweet Bailey. Say hello to everypony, girls,” Fluttershy cooed to her foals. Big Mac stood next to her, a look of pride across his face.

Caramel and Spike stepped back, allowing the direct family, plus one pink mare, access to the newborns.

“Two girls, eh?” Caramel let out a whistle. “Must be somethin’ wrong with Mac’s swimmers.” Caramel laughed, until Applejack came over and hit him on the head with her stetson.

“Ah think these girls’ll be out-buckin old Uncle Caramel in no time. Then you’ll have a son, a wife, a brother-in-law and two nieces all buckin’ tree’s better’n you!”

Spike didn’t worry too much about their bickering, he knew Caramel and Applejack loved teasing each other. He watched as Pinkie whispered ‘Happy Birthday’ to the two foals. He was about to stop her from blowing her party horn, but the small paper noise–maker blew completely silently. He couldn’t be sure if it was designed that way, or if perhaps it was Pinkies peculiar party potential shining through.

“Spikey! Come here,” Pinkie whispered as loud as she could. “Come and see the babies!”

Spike looked down at the two newborns, cuddling against their mothers chest. Autumn Gold was a strong looking earth pony, her red coat only slightly lighter than her father's. Sweet Bailey, on the other claw, had a deep malachite green coat, with tiny little pegasi wings.

Spike shook Big Mac’s hoof, then leaned forward and kissed Fluttershy on the forehead. “Congratulations, you two. They are beautiful.

“Twilight and Luna are sorry they couldn’t make it,” Spike offered, apologetically. “It seems they’re still dealing with the fallout from the impromptu sojourn Celestia sent those nobles on. Oh, and that reminds me: Larry and Jerome send their congratulations too.”

After saying hello to the foals, Spike went back to stand with Caramel and Applejack. Pinkie was sitting next to the bed, pulling funny faces at the foals. They had their eyes closed, but he remembered her being the same with Pound and Pumpkin.

Ginger had crawled back up onto Spikes back, bored with newborns already. Applejack told him off for trying to wrestle ‘uncle Spike’.

“It’s okay, AJ,” Spike sat on his hind quarters as Ginger Gold attempted to get him in a headlock. “He can get his dragon wrangling cutie mark, but he should know that the best dragon wranglers were quiet. They sneak up on their prey. Loud wranglers got eaten.” He demonstrated with a gentle nip in the foals direction.

“Yer great with kids, yah know?” Applejack admired. Ginger Gold had suddenly stopped yelling, and was quietly stalking around the floor, pretending to hunt Spike.

“Yeah, I reckon you’n Pinks will be the next, eh?” Caramel chuckled. He stopped chuckling, and started rubbing his shin. “What was that for, AJ?”

Applejack was biting her tongue, looking pass Spike. He could see she was angry about something, but Spike wasn’t sure of what.

“Oh, sorry Spike,” Caramel shuffled, looking down at his hooves. “Didn’t mean anything by it.”

Confused, Spike turned to look in the direction Applejack was looking. Pinkie was still rocking Sweet Bailey in her forearms, but her mane had lost its bounce. Big Mac was holding Autumn Gold, and Fluttershy held a hoof on Pinkie’s shoulder.

A pain shot through his body, as he finally realized what had been said. Spike cared very deeply for her, perhaps he could even say he was in love with Pinkie; but he hadn’t considered what she might have to give up being with him.

Conversation was a lot quieter after Caramel’s inappropriate joking. Spike crossed the room, and laid a gentle claw on Pinkie’s shoulder. She turned to look at him, she was smiling, but the redness of her eyes did not fool him. He wrapped his arms around her, as she continued to gently rock the foal in her arms.

Spike lead Pinkie Pie through the hospital grounds. He stopped to buy two small cups of juice from a vending machine, then they sat down under a tree.

“Pinkie?” Spike pulled her next to him, draping a wing around her. “You want to talk about it?”

She buried muzzle in his chest, breathing in his scent and enjoying his warmth, hiding her eyes.

“You know, if you wanted to, umm…” Spike loathed to words he was about to speak, as much as he meant them. “I-If you wanted to find somepony who could, you know, give you what you wanted… I wouldn’t begrudge you.” He breathed a deep sigh. “We’ll always be friends.”

He stroked her mane as she sobbed into his chest.

“It’s not that, Spikey… I don’t want you to leave me.” Pinkie sniffled.

“Well, maybe we could talk to Twilight about it one day? She might know of something–”

“I’ve already asked Twilight, a few years ago.” Pinkie shook her head, pushing herself away from his chest to look him in the eye. She let out a bitter laugh. “Fluttershy even asked Discord if there was something he could do. But there’s nothing anypony can do.”

“You’ve been thinking about it for years?” Spike was flabbergasted. “How long have you been interested in me?” He was touched. Sure, he had a crush on her for some time, even though it had taken a long time to admit it to himself. But she’d been thinking about children with him for years?

“No Spike. It’s not you.” Pinkie Pie wore another smile that did not reach her eyes. “I am usually happy being just Auntie Pinkie. I love foals, and really do want a family.”

“But… I can’t have foals.” Pinkie slumped with the confession.

“Oh.” Spike’s sighed, slumping his shoulders. “I’m sorry, Pinkie. I didn’t know.”

“It’s okay.” She stretched her neck to give him a kiss. “Only the girls knew, I told them when I found out. It just hurts when somepony tells me I should have foals, because no matter what I want, I can not have them.”

Pinkie let out a deep sigh, and cuddled back under his wing. She craned her neck to look at him. “But you’re already thinking of having foals with me, hmm?” she asked with a wry smile.

“What? No, I didn’t, I mean I don’t…” Spike blushed, getting more flustered by the second. “I mean, not that I didn’t think you’d not be a good… but it’s not like I… oh wow, is it getting hot out here?

“It’s not like I’ve been thinking about foals. Or hatchlings, I guess. It’s not really even in the cards for me. I’d just like to have a family, one day, I think.”

Pinkie Pie giggled as she nuzzled his chest. “So you think about us?”

“Umm, sometimes, yeah, maybe? Is that not good?” Spike was nervous of what effect his words might have on her. Was he too serious, would he frighten her off? Was he supposed to already have an answer, or was it too early. He didn’t have a lot of experience to draw from, and the last thing he wanted was to hurt Pinkie.

When she cuddled in closer, he continued. “If I was to have a future with somepony, they’d have to be a lot of fun to be around, make me laugh and smile.”

“I think about it sometimes too.” Pinkie admitted. “But I want to enjoy what we have now as well.”

“Mmmm,” Spike hummed in agreement. “Maybe one day then, but I like what we have now too. No need to rush.”

“‘Good with foals!’ she says? ‘Take them camping,’ she says?” Spike cursed under his breath. “You sure know how to sweet-talk a dragon, AJ.”

Spike blew a gentle flame over the water in the old tub. He dipped a claw into the water, testing the temperature. It was perfect for maple pony soup. He turned around to face the five foals.

“Okay, listen up squirts. You have three minutes to wash yourselves, then it’s time to get ready for bed. We’ll have a few stories, but then it’ll be lights out.

“Peach, Daisy, you girls can go first. Pinkie will help if you need it.” Pinkie had dealt with a Pound and Pumpkin, so he was pretty certain she could handle two earth fillies. Spike pointed to three boys. “Ginger, Mist and Steel; you will follow me. When the girls are done, the three of you can wash up.”

Spike marched the three boys away from the clearing. They grumbled about leaving the warmth of the fire and Spike wouldn’t let them crowd him while they were still sticky.

‘What is it with the Crusaders and tree sap?’

Spike ended up having to hold Mist Chaser and Steel Mask down; Steel being the most eager to watch the bathing fillies from the bushes.

“I don’t get it.” Ginger watched the two struggling colts try to get out from under Spike. “What’s wrong with them watching the girls bath?”

“Because…” Spike struggled to keep the two trapped. “The girls are indecent right now, it’s not right to spy on them.”

“What does indecent mean?” Mist Chaser asked, as he tried to pry himself free.

“It means–” Spike caught the escaping pegasus by the tail “– that they aren’t wearing any clothes. So it’s rude to go peeking on them.”

“But Peach and Daisy never wear clothes,” Steel Mask objected.

“Okay.” Spike groaned. “Think of it this way. Ginger, what would you do if you found out Mist was peeking on Apple Bloom? Or if Steel was peaking on your sister, Mist. Or what if Ginger peeked on your mom?” He directed the last question to the unicorn trapped under his rump.

“I’d buck him!” Ginger growled.

“I’d thump him!” Mist Chaser scowled.

“I’d pick him up with my magic and throw him into Ghastly Gorge!” Steel Mask sneered.

“See, you wouldn’t like it. And those girls have brothers, or fathers, or somepony who–”

Ginger Gold dived towards Mist, who dodged into the air, swooping into a dive-kick at Steel Mask. The little unicorn managed to block the kick with a shield spell. He flung Mist back towards Ginger before diving after him.

“You stay away from Dinky!” Mist yelled.

“Well you keep away from Auntie Bloom!” Ginger added.

“And the both of you will stay away from my Great and Powerful Mum!” Steel finished.

Spike chuckled, watching as the boys unknowingly acted out one of his favourite dragon poems. Though they lacked the fire and claws, the billowing dust cloud was pretty accurate.

Spike heated a new tub of water, having had to tip out the old tub. The boys happily chatted with each other comparing scrapes and bruises, each others awesome moves, and discussing the possibility of getting Fight Club cutie marks. Pinkie was helping the girls into their sleeping clothes.

After the boys were cleaned, and put in their pajamas, everypony sat around the campfire.

“Who want’s to hear a story?” Spike asked the group. He loved telling stories, he certainly read enough of them.

“Ooo, ooo! Spikey! Tell them the one about the cursed teapot…” Pinkie bounced excitedly.

“But that was…” Spike remembered the adventure. Pinkie, the girls and himself had seen some strange things, but that one was by far one of the strangest. Frustrated, he finished, “I don’t even know what that was about.”

“Tell us about the time you beat up the Wonderbolts!”

Spike turned towards Ginger. “Where did you hear that story?”

“Auntie Bloom told me!” The foal could not stop laughing.

“Oooo, we want to hear that one!” Steel Mask said, watching the dragon with newfound admiration.

“Yeah!” joined the three other foals. As, he couldn’t help but notice, did Pinkie Pie. She loved stories that embarrassed him.

Spike shared the story of his first birthday party in Ponyville, the foals all laughing as he described his rampage through Ponyville. He tried to skim over how everything had been solved, but Pinkie cut in.

“And then it was like, poof! And Spikey and Rarity came falling to the ground. And they were making kissy faces at each other. And then Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy swooped in and caught them!”

“So how come you aren’t all ‘Spike want’ now?” Mist Chaser asked whilst pretending to steal Daisy’s marshmallow. She managed to fend him off with a stick.

“Twilight and Shining Armor helped me with that. You see, a dragon will always horde; infact, he has to if he wants to grow up healthy. They had to teach me how to control my urges, so I could build a horde without hurting anypony.”

“How did they do that?” Peach Cobbler asked.

“Well, it wasn’t easy. Twilight took me to the Crystal Empire for my next birthday. We stayed with Shiney and his wife, Princess Cadence. They had guards standing around me, and they put all kinds of cool stuff on a table in front of me.”

Spike blanched at the memory. “Every time I’d try to take something that wasn’t mine. Zap! Dragons are naturally resistant to pony magic, it’s why Twilight used to practice with me. But it doesn’t mean it didn’t hurt.”

He shifted his weight around, and pointed to a small scar, less than a hoof’s length, across the left side of his rump. “This was when I really learned not to take something that didn’t belong to me.”

“Wow, is that a lightning cutie mark?” Steel looked in awe. “How did you get that?”

Pinkie and Spike laughed together. “No, it’s not a cutie mark, dragons don’t get cutie mark. That is where forty guards zapped me at once.”

“Why did they do that?” Ginger gasped.

“I tried to take Princess Cadence’s crown.” Spike chuckled as he spoke. “When I woke up three days later, my rump was still very sore, ahd I didn’t feel much like taking anything anymore. So these days, I like to collect things I can buy myself.

“First I liked buying hats, but I think that was just so I could visit somepony.” Spike gave a sheepish grin, looking away from Pinkie as he told this part. “These days I like books.”

“Aww, books are boring!” Mist Chaser complained. “Why don’t you collect something cool, like gold and gems?”

Spike laughed. “I couldn’t afford to collect gold on a librarian’s salary, and gems are just too tasty. Plus, then I’d always have nasty little pegasi flying into my lair trying to take my cool stuff.” He playfully nipped the air in front of Mist Chaser, who fell over backwards. The other foals laughed.

“Okay kiddies, I think it’s time for bed.” Pinkie started to corral the fillies towards their tent.

“Awww, we want another story!” the two fillies complained.

“Come on, Pinkie. We’ve got time for one more story.” Spike grinned, picking up a few rocks. “What do you think Rocky? Wanna share the story about Pinkie Pie’s birthday?”

Pinkie blushed and continued to push the girls into the tent.

Spike crept out of the boys tent. He’d join them again later, to make sure Steel and Mist didn’t decide to visit the girls tent. Pinkie had assured them she had a party cannon, and wasn’t afraid to use it, if the boys tried to get all hoovesy.

He sat by the dying fire, grabbing a new log and breathing a gentle flame over it; Spike pitied the foal who had to use flint and tinder. He stoked the fire as it came back to life. He sat back, resting against one of the logs to watch the night sky.

Owls flew through the branches of the trees, looking for an evening meal. Cicadas sang their songs. A family of racoons watched him from the treeline, presumably assessing the camps potential food supply against the probability of tangling with the large reptile guarding it.

Spike sighed happily. Whitetail Woods was beautiful at night. Calm, peaceful, tranquil. The perfect atmosphere for Pinkie to burst out of something random and try to scare him.

He tensed for the inevitable.

All he was rewarded with was her smiling face as she emerged from the fillies tent. She slipped next to him warming her hooves near the fire. “The boys asleep?”

Spike perked his ear, listening. “Ginger is sound asleep and Mist is dozing. Steel thinks I can’t hear him sneaking out.”

“Awwwwww!” the foal moaned, as he slunk back into the tent.

“Almost as much trouble as that mother of his was, hey?” Spike stretched out his wing, and folded it over Pinkie. It wasn’t warm and soft like a pegasus or alicorn’s wing was; but he knew it would at least protect her from the cool night breeze.

“I’m glad Applejack asked us to do this, you know,”– Spike sighed –“but I still can’t believe she does this with the foals every month then she just goes right back to working on the farm.” Spike stretched, cracking the discs in his spine. “I think I’d need the next month off to just recover.”

They settled by the fire, watching the stars above. The foals soft breathing could be heard in the silence of the night.

“You were really good with the foals today,” Pinkie said as she snuggled into him. “You really would make a good dad.”

Okay,

So by now, most of you will have seen the "Cancelled" status of this fic. I wanted to give a it of an explanation of why, and where I am going with this. For those who find this tl;dr, I will be rebooting this story from scratch. More at the bottom.

First thing: I bucked up, pretty bad. I didn't plan this out anywhere near as well as I should have. My initial plans were to go from first date to growing relationship to a somewhat happily ever after scenario.

And the pacing so far ssssssssssssssssssssuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuucks! I didn't like jumping forward in time, and I originally had in mind that things would be heating up around the time of the birth of Sweet Bailey and whatever her name was. I should probably go back and check what her name was, but right now I am lazy (and supposed to be working!)

Second thing: Mixing serious issues, like Pinkie's infertility, racial prejudice against dragons, etc... just doesn't work well within a comedy. As per chapter 10, it was pretty much a drama-bomb, and I didn't like that I had to try and push it into the background in the same chapter. Like "okay, so this is a sad moment and integral to the story but lets push it back into the background so we can get back to the yuks!"

That was bad planning on my part, honestly.

And spoiler alert, for this fic and the next (don't look if you don't want to know): most of you already guessed how I was going to resolve the issue.

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So, before you come at me with pitchforks and torches, you should know: I don't want to drop this story completely, nope nope nope!

As it is, the pacing isn't working for me. Mixing the drama and the comedy is not working. Chapter nine was kind of a reactionary chapter cobbled together from abandoned ideas to try and address some complaints people had in the comments section. And even that went too far in the opposite direction. It was a funny chapter, yes, and I would love it more if it weren't for the fact it didn't fit in the story.

How I started the story does not work within the expectations of what I have for the story, and the expectations that have been built up by you, the readers (though this is not your fault, as I was the one who built them.) This story is all over the place, due to lack of planning.

What I will be doing is cancelling this fic, and restarting from the ground up. I don't want to delete this fic, as there are some bits in here that I am absolutely proud of, and love. And honestly just deleting it reeks of trying to cover up my mistakes. Nothing to see here folks, move along.

I will be re-writing this, changing some of the elements and timing from this story. The new fic will start with SpikiePie already established. So you could consider this cancelled story as a cut-content prequel to the new story. But the new story will probably be more of a dramedy than an out-and-out comedy.

If the new story idea interests you, and the swap from comedy to mostly dramedy isn't too much, then either continue to follow this story, I will post one more chapter with the link to the new story when it has started, alternately you can follow me.

If the new story idea does not interest you, then I want to thank you for giving Somepony for Spike a chance.

Cheers

Zakkyhooves