At the Drake mansion one afternoon, Spike, his girls, Octavia, and Cadence were off to the side watching Stone and Shining Armor in the middle of a Roman Eating Contest, with both of them stuffing hot dogs into their mouths and gobbling them down.

"How did they end up partaking in this barbaric contest again?" Rarity asked in repulse.

"Those two love their little competitions." Cadence replied with a roll of her eyes.

"Still, I'm all for a good contest, but I could never do this." Spike replied.

"Stone has been starving himself all day for this occasion." Octavia noted.

"I could never starve myself." Pinkie replied.

The two continued to eat, with both of them looking on the verge of throwing it all back up, until Shining Armor caved in, "I'm out!"

"Stone is the winner!" Rainbow declared.

"Yes!" Stone pumped a fist.

"How the hell can you eat that much?" Spike asked in disbelief.

"What can I say? I have the stomach for it." Stone patted his stomach, while cleaning his mouth with a napkin.

"Well, after that gross display I may be skipping lunch." Spike told the girls, until suddenly both he and Stone's bodies glowed.

"Spike! Stone! You're glowing!" Pinkie gasped.

"Like night lights." Fluttershy added.

"Yeah we can see that." Stone noted.

"And I'm also burning all over!" Spike cried, as he rolled across the carpet hoping it would help with the itch, but to no avail.

"What's going on?" Twilight asked in concern.

"Don't worry, I'm sending a message to the princesses." Cadence said, as he used her magic to teleport a letter to Celestia and Luna.

"How come you're not burning from it, Stone?" Bonbon asked seeing he wasn't reacting to it like Spike.

"It's not that bad to me. Spike just can't take it like I can." he replied like it was no big.

After Spike stopped rolling around it didn't burn as much, but was uncomfortable, "Will somebody please explain what's going on with us?!"

"Don't worry, we have an answer." Came Celestia's voice, as she and Luna exit through a portal.

"Are Spike and Stone sick, Princess?" Rarity asked Celestia.

"Don't worry, they're both fine." Celestia assured her.

"How is this fine?" Spike strained while scratching his back.

"This, Spike, is the call of the Dragon Lord." Luna explained, as Celestia gave her few cents.

"Dragons glow whenever the Dragon Lord is in need of them in the Dragon Lands."

"Great. But how do you make it stop?" Spike asked, as he had Rainbow and Applejack scratching his back when he couldn't continue doing it himself.

"The only way to end the summons is to answer it. You and Stone must journey to the Dragon Lands and see what is expected of you." Luna instructed.

"Just us?" Spike asked, "Can't the girls come?"

"They may, but it probably would be problematic since not too many ponies venture to that side of Equestria." Luna said.

"But maybe if someone were to inform the Dragon Lord of it then he may be persuaded to allow them passage." Celestia put in.

"Who do you have in mind?" Twilight asked.

"Bahamut himself." Celestia answered.

"Bahamut?" Spike asked, "But he lives inside me. Who's gonna even truly believe he's within me?"

"We have been studying a way to counter that problem, and in the end my sister and I have created this." Luna levitated up a medallion of a red gemstone.

"Hey, nice bling." Spike said.

"How's a medallion gonna help?" Rainbow asked.

"Try it on, Spike. And we'll see if it works," Celestia instructed, as she levitated it over to Spike. Spike put it on and it glowed a bit, "Dragon King, can you hear us?" she asked.

From the medallion came a familiar voice to Spike, "Yes. I read you loud and clear, Princess." the gem glowed with every word he said.

The girls gasped, as Lyra spoke, "Who was that?"

"My partner." Spike answered, as the King spoke.

"Greetings, everyone. I am the Dragon King Bahamut. So nice to finally be able to converse with all of you."

"The feeling's mutual, sir." Twilight answered with respect.

Pinkie went over sticking her face to the medallion, "Hiya, Kingy. I'm Pinkie Pie, that's Twilight, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Sunset Shimmer, Lyra, Bonbon..."

"Yes! I know who you all are. I've been here the whole time."

"He's right." Twilight confirmed.

"So Dragon Lord Torch is summoning you two, eh? I wonder what the old boy wants?" Bahamut chuckled.

"You know the Dragon Lord?" Spike asked.

"Know him? Torch and I go way back, though back then there was no Lord title."

"Right because you're the King." Vinyl noted.

"Precisely. Anyway now that I am able to communicate, I can convince Torch to allow you girls to be in his presence with protection."

"You promise?" Fluttershy asked hopefully.

"I would never lie about this."

"Then we'll leave them in your care, Bahamut." Luna said.

Celestia turned to the girls, "Be very careful. The Dragon Lands are very dangerous to pony folk. While you're there don't make a spectacle of yourselves."

"We promise to behave, Princess." Twilight promised.

"Good. Then you should leave at once." the Princess of the Sun instructed.

"Wait. If we're going far, I'll need to pack the essentials." Rarity said, as she went up for her room.

Applejack rolled her eyes, "Oh, boy. We better make sure she doesn't overdo it." The girls went up with Rarity.

Stone patted Spike's shoulder, "Well, Spike. You're finally going to be meeting dragons just like you now."

"Yeah. Great. I just hope I don't make myself look like an idiot to them." he sighed, until Celestia and Luna comforted him.

"Remember, Spike, you're not alone in this." Celestia began.

"You'll have the support of Stone and the girls with you." Luna added.

"Not to mention you got me to back you up." Bahamut put in.

Spike hearing their words of support smiled, "Thanks, guys. I feel much better and assured now."

Soon the group stood together with a traveling bag each, "Good luck to all of you, and stay safe." Celestia told them.

"You betcha, Princess." Spike said, as a portal opened up for them. As they stepped inside the portal closed.

In Equestria, the group reappeared in their pony or dragon forms. They looked around seeing they were in a barren valley, "What is this place?" Fluttershy asked.

"Welcome to the Dragon Lands." Bahamut answered.

"Must be nice being back home, huh?" Applejack asked.

"Indeed. The scenery does look familiar though. Guess some things really don't change."

"So where to do we go now?" Sunset Shimmer asked.

The medallion levitated up as if responding to Bahamut's aura and tugged Spike forward, "This way." the Dragon King answered, as Spike was tugged along.

"Hey, easy! Spike tried keeping up with the medallion.

"You heard the King. Move out." Stone instructed, as they followed Spike and the medallion.

They followed the trail before coming across a castle atop a volcano, "Is this it?" Bonbon inquired.

"Yes. Welcome to the Castle of the Dragon Lord. Still in good shape after all these centuries."

"Did you ever live there?" Rainbow asked.

"Once upon a time. Oh, I'll never forget the first day I walked through those doors."

"You can reminisce later," Spike replied, "Right now we got a Lord to meet."

"Killjoy." Bahamut grumbled.

"Do your conversations with Bahamut usually turn out this way?" Twilight asked Spike.

"More or less."

So they walked up to the castle, and saw two dragon guards guarding the entrance. They were blue scaled and wore armor, while also glowing like Spike and Stone. When they saw the group approaching, they blocked them off, "Halt, who goes there?"

"Spike Drake." Spike introduced himself.

"And I'm Stone Edge. We've come to speak with Dragon Lord Torch."

"The Lord isn't seeing anyone today." one guard spoke.

"And what are ponies doing with you?" the second asked suspiciously.

"They're with us." Stone answered.

"And I'm sure Dragon Lord Torch will make an exception for us. For we bring to him an old friend of his." Spike explained.

The two guards looked at each other as if debating. When they came to an answer, one spoke, "Follow us, and stay close."

"Thank you, guards." Twilight thanked them.

The guards showed the group through the castle halls, which looked more medieval than Canterlot castle or the Crystal Empire castle. From the ceilings hung old tapestries of dragons, and on the wall were portraits of past Dragon Lords.

When they saw a picture of a familiar dragon, Bahamut spoke quietly so they could hear him, "That's me from so long ago. I was quite the looker in those days."

Spike whispered, "You look like you're more of a 'Look at that!' type."

Bahamut scoffed, "You can be very mean sometimes."

They entered the throne room chamber and saw sitting atop a stone platform was a colossal sized dragon with bluish green scales, red wings, yellow teeth, and yellow to orange horns that extended down from his head like mammoth tusks. Around his body was black armor and on his head was a three pointed red crystal that acted like a crown, and on one of his horns was a golden ring.

"Whoa." the girls gasped.

"That is one big dragon." Fluttershy's legs shook.

"Presenting Dragon Lord Torch, Lord of all Dragons!" one of the guards announced.

"What is the meaning of this?!" the Dragon Lord demanded in a booming voice that almost knocked the group off their feet.

"Wow. That's some voice." Rainbow gasped.

The second guard spoke, "My lord, forgive us, but these visitors wished to see you. The purple dragon claims to have an old friend of yours with him."

"Old friend?" Torch asked as he looked down at Spike who felt like an ant compared to the big dragon. Torch lowered his head down to Spike as if studying him, while Spike kept it together not wanting to panic from what he could do to him. Suddenly Torch erupted into laughter much to everyone's confusion, "Ha! I thought I recognized your aura in the room, Bahamut!"

Bahamut spoke from the medallion, "Yes. Good to see you again, Torch. I see you've really hit a growth spurt in the last century or so."

"You know it," Torch turned to Stone studying him, "Well, what do you know? You must be that son of Silver Streak and Amethyst."

"Yes. Stone Edge, sir." Stone replied.

"This is such a treat. Ember, come here!" he called out.

Flying down was a female dragon who looked no taller than the girls. She had brilliant red eyes, Moderate phthalo blue spikes, her scales were colored brilliant cyan with a pale turquoise underbelly and wing membrane gradient of moderate indigo to light cobalt blue. She had horns like Torch's colored light apple greenish gray. What was shocking is that the dragon was completely naked, which wasn't surprising since most natural born dragons of Equestria don't wear clothing, but to Spike this was a great sight to behold. He eyed her up noticing she sported a DD cup rack size.

'Babe and Bare Boobage alert.' he thought to himself.

"May I present to you my daughter, Princess Ember," Torch introduced them, "Ember, greet our guests."

"Hey." Ember waved a claw with no interest.

"Well, ain't she a ray of sunshine." Applejack whispered to Sunset and Pinkie.

"Ember, this here dragon is carrying none other than the spirit of my oldest and dearest friend, Bahamut." Torch explained.

"Seriously? The Dragon King lives in this guy?" Ember eyed Spike up, while noticing his own gaze upon her which was downward, "What're you staring at?"

"Nothing!" Spike answered, as he shifted his gaze upward.

Bahamut spoke, "It's as the rumors stated, Torch. My body was destroyed, but my spirit was transferred into the Fire Ruby. And now I have been reincarnated into this boy here."

"What is your name young one?" Torch asked Spike.

"Spike Drake, sir."

"What part of Equestria are you from?"

"Well, I'm not native to Equestria."

Bahamut answered, "Spike here descends from the human world."

"The human world? Well, this is certainly unexpected."

"I know. But I've grown quite fond of the boy here."

"Oh, Bahamut. I didn't know you cared." Spike cooed.

Torch looked at the ponies, "And you brought ponies with you? For what reason?"

Twilight approached, "Dragon Lord Torch, I am Princess Twilight Sparkle, student of Princess Celestia. We've come here on behalf of her."

"Student of Celestia? Well, the girl always did love taking on apprentices. Looks like you were the one in a long time to ascend to her level of status." he noted her wings and horn.

"I humbly request you as an old friend that Twilight and the others bare witness to whatever you plan involving your call." Bahamut requested.

"Anything for an old friend, Bahamut. Come, we're just about to sit down for dinner. You're all welcomed to join us until the remaining dragons arrive."

"Thank you, Lord Torch." Rarity thanked him.

"Ember, please show our guests to the dining hall."

"Sure thing, dad. Come on." She told the group, as they followed her.

As they walked through the hall, Spike tried to make conversation with the Princess, "Your pop seems like a very nice guy."

"Yeah? You should see him when he gets cranky." Ember warned him.

"I've seen it." Bahamut replied.

"So do you have any idea why he's summoning all dragons here of all times?" Twilight inquired.

"I do, but I shouldn't say anything," Ember replied, "Otherwise dad will get pissed I've spoiled the surprise."

"Forgive me for being nosey, but I'm sensing some hostility with you and your dad." Bonbon noted.

"Whatever." Ember rebuffed,.

Spike whispered to Stone, "She is naked and she doesn't seem to care."

"Dragons native to Equestria aren't particularly fashionable, so they walk around however they please with no sense of modesty," Stone explained, "Still be careful where you look at her. I'm sure Torch wouldn't like the idea of you looking at his daughter the way you look at others."

"Right." Spike laughed nervously, as they arrived at the dining hall. They each took a seat at the big table, with Spike sitting in between Twilight and Rarity, while Ember sat near the biggest seat where her father normally sits.

Soon Torch arrived and took his seat, as food was brought in composed of meats, and to the girls surprise healthier foods, "Dragon Lord Torch, you actually have food ponies eat here?" Fluttershy asked.

"Of course. Our chef can make just about anything for any creature." Torch explained, as he tossed some bits of meat into his giant mouth.

"Question, sir. How did the title Dragon King turn into Dragon Lord?" Twilight asked with interest.

Torch explained, "Well, originally it was always Dragon King. Bahamut and I during our younger years always dreamed of being king. We trained and worked our way up until we finally came of age to partake in the event that determines the next Dragon ruler. Then when the day came, we both partook in the event proving our strengths and what not. And to mine and every dragons surprise, Bahamut was declared king."

Bahamut spoke, "That's right. Since then I ruled the dragons firm but just. Until one day war broke out among the dragons, as rivaling dragons staged a revolt against me and anyone close to me. I fought hard till the last breath, but in the end they destroyed my body. The dragon elders however knew of a way to save me. They sealed my spirit away inside of the Fire Ruby which now lies within you, Spike."

"The elders knew many more dragons would try and take it and use it for who knows what," Torch continued, "For safety measures, the ruby was entrusted to Princess Celestia to watch over. Though how was it the ruby was merged into Spike?"

"That's on me, sir," Twilight spoke up, "You see, we've had a lot of enemies rising up recently, and I felt that Spike would be a perfect candidate to house the Fire Ruby and protect the Dragon King's power. So Princess Celestia entrusted the ruby to me. When Spike was on the verge of death I used it to restore him and in the process grant him the power of Bahamut."

"Clever move. And since Bahamut's death the title of king felt too high of a hierarchy for us. So it was then the title of Dragon Lord was made. Many since then had taken on the title, including myself. I have reigned as Dragon Lord for many many years now."

"And I'm glad you didn't rage war on the ponies of Equestria." Bahamut said.

Torch choked, "What do you take me for? A monster? I have no beef with the ponies of Equestria, nor do I have any interest in war at this day and age. Both our sides have had nothing but peace. And I should hope it stays that way."

"You and me both," Pinkie replied, "I mean why would anyone want to start a war to begin with? Isn't it better to have peace?"

"Tell that to the enemies we've been fighting for months now." Rainbow reminded her.

Torch slid a big bowl of gems before Spike, and spoke, "Ya ever try eating a gem, Spike?"

"Well, no. Personally I find gemstones too beautiful to eat."

"And nothing personal, but the idea of it just sounds like a crime." Rarity said with a shudder.

"Maybe so, but give it a whirl. You might actually like it." the lord insisted.

Spike took a sapphire gemstone from the bowl before taking a bite out of it. His eyes suddenly lit up, "Hey. This is good," he popped the rest in his mouth, "I didn't know gemstones could be so tasty," he started taking hand fulls of gems before stuffing them in his mouth, "Oh delicious."

"Uh, Spike." Twilight tapped his shoulder.

"What?" Spike asked, until he looked to his side seeing Rarity looking distraught at what he was doing. He smiled sheepishly with bits of gems stuck in his teeth, "Sorry, Rarity."

Torch laughed, "He has your appetite, Bahamut. Though how is it living inside of another?"

"Well, he's adapted well into his new dragon body since I was reincarnated inside him. Though it wasn't easy to put up with him. You should see what his Dragon Passion is."

"Oh, do tell." Torch looked interested.

"He has an obsession with ladies, particularly ones who're well endowed. As you can see the girls who have accompanied him."

Torch looked upon the girls minus Octavia who sat with Stone, seeing what his old friend meant, "So I see. Quite a hoard you've built up so far."

"Well, this is just the beginning, Dragon Lord Torch," Spike replied, "Because it's my dream to build a harem of girls!" he declared.

Ember looked across from Spike feeling disturbed, "Are you serious?"

"Believe me, he is." Bahamut replied.

Ember looked at the other girls, "And you all don't have a problem with this?"

"Well, while it's unorthodox, we've all come to love Spike because we got to know the kind of person he really is." Rarity explained.

"He just has that affect on us." Vinyl added.

"A dragon hording pony girls," Torch said, "That's certainly a first. Most of us dragons have passion on gems, treasure, and any other shiny objects. Sadly when one becomes too obsessed with their hoard it also decreases their intellect. A flaw with us dragons."

"So then how come I don't feel dumb or anything?" Spike asked.

"Because unlike a dragons normal passion, yours allows you to be surrounded by others who help stimulate your mind and growth. Though many dragons can control their hoarding urges while maintaining a level of brains like myself."

"Huh? I had no idea you girls have been keeping my brain from melting." Spike joked, and they laughed.

"And it's also ironic, Bahamut himself was also a dragoness' fella himself during our days." Torch noted.

"Really? Bahamut was a playboy?" Spike asked, while looking at his medallion which responded.

"It was a long time ago. And I had no time for love."

"No time for love?" Sunset asked in shock.

"Surely you jest," Rarity replied, "You must have some kind of love in your heart back then."

"I did have friends and such, but not on the level of Spike's."

"I had no idea." Spike said feeling sorry.

"Some things I prefer to keep to myself."

Torch spoke, "Well, we best eat up. The other dragons will be arriving soon." Everyone nodded and chowed down.

Later on, everyone was gathered outside the castle at a meeting point in the valley. Spike and the girls who stood up by Torch and Ember saw all the dragons gathering around with their scales glowing like theirs, "I've never seen so many dragons before." Lyra gasped.

"They don't look any bigger than Spike or Stone." Octavia noted.

"Dragon growth is sort of a slow process," Bahamut began, "The longer a dragon lives the bigger they become. But some dragons can keep their size at a minimum should they choose to control their growth."

"Then does Dragon Lord Torch let himself grow that big so he can tower over all?" Pinkie asked, as Ember whispered back.

"You guessed it."

When all the dragons were gathered around Torch's stand point, he announced to them, "Dragons of Equestria! Hear me! Welcome to the first meeting of dragons in a very long time. As you all know I have been Dragon Lord longer than many of you can remember, and my reign has been extraordinary," when Torch looked among the dragons seeing no response bellowed, "AGREE WITH ME!" his voice shook the valley.

The dragons started applauding and chanting Torch's name, as Twilight cleaned her ear out, "And I thought the Royal Canterlot voice was loud."

"I know." Bonbon agreed.

Torch made the dragons cease their cheers so he could continue, "Unfortunately, according to Dragon Law it is time for me to step down. Sad I know," he once again saw no reaction, "BE SAD!" the dragons put on sob faces.

Pinkie cried on Fluttershy, "That's the saddest thing ever!"

"Why're you crying? This is dragon business." Ember reminded her.

Pinkie ceased crying, "I know. But I wouldn't wanna be rude to your dad."

"And this is why I have summoned you all," Torch continued, "To compete for the throne in The Gauntlet of Fire!" the dragons cheered, as Spike was curious.

"A tournament to determine the next ruler? Is this how its always been done?"

"Always. The position should not be of just a family legacy, but open to all dragons." Bahamut answered.

Torch held up a small scepter between two of his digits. The scepter had a red gemstone at the top, "Whomever has the strength and fortitude to retrieve this Bloodstone Scepter from the Heart of the Flamecano will be crowned LORD OF THE DRAGONS!" He flicked the scepter sending it flying across the water and landing into a volcano on another island.

When the scepter fell into the volcano, it released a red shockwave that washed over the dragons making their scales return to normal. Spike seeing the glowing stopped felt relieved, "That's more like it. I was starting to get itchy below the belt."

"Shh." Stone shushed him, as Torch explained the tournament further.

"The Gauntlet is dangerous. For I designed it myself. Only dragons with my ferocity, strength, and determination will be able to finish. We will gather at the cliff tomorrow morning at Zero Six Hundred Hours when the sun rises!" The dragons cheered.

"Ooh, this tournament sounds so much fun." Pinkie cheered.

"Didn't you hear the Dragon Lord?" Fluttershy asked, "He said it was dangerous."

"I know, that's what makes it so fun." Pinkie said with her excitement still in tact.

Torch spoke up, "And now that that's out of the way, I would like to introduce to you some special dragons who will be joining us," Stone stepped forward for all to see, "First may I introduce to you Stone Edge, son of Silver Streak, one of Equestria's legendary sword wielders!"

One dragon from below spoke, "How can he take part in the Gauntlet? He's not even a real dragon."

Stone frowned at this claim, until Torch spoke, "Anything with dragon blood in them is still considered dragon to me! Got that?!" the dragon winced and nodded, "Good. Our next guest is one dragon many of you may have heard of from the kingdoms of Canterlot and even the Crystal Empire. Spike Drake, vessel to my old friend Bahamut the former Dragon King!"

Spike stepped forward seeing all eyes on him, "Hello, dragons! It's really an honor to be here amongst you all. I'll admit it is a new experience for me since I've mostly been acquainted with ponies most of the time," Spike noticed the dragons looked uninterested in his talk of ponies, "But I assure you, my associating with ponies does make me weak or anything like that. In fact they're the ones that make me stronger!" he declared.

When the dragons didn't response Torch bellowed, "APPLAUD HIM!" the dragons obeying their order applauded Spike. Spike however could see through it and knew they only did it because they were ordered.

Bahamut spoke up so all could hear him, "Thank you, Spike for that lovely speech. And now I personally would like to say a few words to the dragons of this generation. It has been a very long time since I ruled here and walked among the dragons that came before most of you. And looking at you all today I can only express my deepest disappointment!"

The dragons were confused by his words, while the ponies were worried about Bahamut making enemies for Spike. One dragon spoke up, "What've you got to be disappointed in?"

"I have learned of what has happened to our race over the years, and found out all you dragons do with your lives is hoard, eat, sleep, and terrorize for your own amusement. And you wonder why so many other creatures fear us and call us monsters! In my day we dragons were noble creatures that represented wisdom and strength. I don't know what it was that made dragons forget this, but I promise you this our ancestors would be rotting in their graves if they could see you all today. Thank you."

Torch announced, "You have heard it here. Now all of you go and rest up for tomorrow the Gauntlet of Fire begins!" As dragons were dismissed, Ember was about to take off only for Torch to pull her back with his giant claw, "And where do you think you're going?"

"To prepare for the Gauntlet tomorrow." she answered bluntly.

"No you're not. You're not physically prepared for this tournament."

Spike and the group were surprised to see Torch say such a thing to his own blood. Ember however was prepared to argue, "I'm ten times smarter than most of these boulder heads down there and you know it!"

Torch however wasn't swayed, "It takes more than brains to win such a tournament like this. It was designed for a big strong dragon to win. Because it takes a big strong dragon to lead."

Spike muttered to Twilight, "And yet none of these dragons here are any bigger so why does he have to talk to her like she's the ant?"

"That's being an overprotective dad for you." she replied.

"Besides, as your father I forbid you from entering!" Torch declared.

Ember growled, "You just don't want me to reach my full potential!" she flew off in a huff.

"Whoa. And I thought Limestone got grumpy." Pinkie said in amaze.

Torch turned to his guests, "Sorry you had to see that. Ember's entered that rebellious phase in life."

"We've all been there." Rainbow admitted.

Bahamut spoke up, "Torch, while it's no place for me to question your parental decisions, I have to say don't you think you're not giving Ember the chance she deserves?"

"It is a father's duty to protect his children from dangers. It's no different than being Dragon Lord."

"I think you may be taking your position as Lord of Dragons more over your position as a Father to Ember." Spike spoke up.

"Spike, please." Twilight tried to stop him.

Torch got down to Spike's face, "Watch yourself, boy. You may have my old friend within you, but I won't hesitate to crush you. Do I make myself clear?"

Spike kept a brave face up, and answered, "Crystal."

"Good. Now you and Stone feel free to mingle about with the other Dragons. I have much to prepare for."

"What about us?" Octavia inquired.

"You lot try and keep your distance from the dragons. They may obey me, but they have a tendency to start fights of their own accord." Torch took off back to his castle.

Stone pulled Spike over, "Well, come on, Spike. Let's see our competition." he and Spike went down to join the other dragons.

As they approached many dragons swarmed them with questions and all, but Stone rebuffed them, while Spike felt like he was being mobbed, "Spike, is it true you fight Nightmare Moon, Queen Chrysalis, and King Sombra?"

"Yes, I..."

"Is it also true you're looking to form a harem of girls?"

"Well, I have been..."

"Just so you know I'm single!" a female dragon said.

"Get in line." another female dragon shoved her aside.

"Me first!"

Spike watched as many girl dragons were fighting each other to get to him. Spike started feeling nervous about this, 'Wow. Dragon girls fight even rougher than normal girls. I should probably avoid them until they're calmer.' he slipped away from them and continued to walk with Stone.

"Too much for you?" Stone asked.

"Too violent, actually. I like watching girls fight over me, but if they did then this whole place would be up in flames." Spike answered, as Stone chuckled.

The two started overhearing some of the other dragons gossip about what they would do if they won the Gauntlet. A female dragon spoke to one, "When I become Dragon Lord I will make burps an official greeting."

The dragon she was talking to replied, "Hah! You? Please. When I win. I will pillage Equestria for pillows. Why should ponies be comfortable while we sleep on rocks?"

Stone spoke up, "I thought you all enjoyed sleeping on rocks."

"Who asked you?" the dragon asked.

"Just a dragon trying to get involved." Stone replied.

Spike spoke, "Yeah. And is that seriously all you guys can think of. Petty laws and ideas? While I don't mind the burp greeting, but pillaging Equestria for pillows? Look I know some ponies and I'll bet they can get you some real comfortable pillows."

The dragon looked interested, "You do?"

"Uh-huh." Spike promised.

Before another would could be said, Garble walked up, "Don't start trying to butter the competition up. After all that's just like how competitors like you would do. Play on a dragons desire to lower their guard so you can claim the title for yourself."

"I have no intention of doing such a cruel method, Mr..."

"Garble. And don't you forget it." Garble warned Spike.

"Garble. Right. Anyway I was merely just trying to be nice to a fellow dragon."

"Dragons don't do nice." the red dragon replied.

"Says who?" Spike argued.

"That's how it's always been."

"Wow. Bahamut was right. The dragon society has really gone down hill since his days." Spike said in disbelief.

"That old mans days are over. This is the dawning of a new age for dragons. And I will be the one to lead them in a revolution against the ponies of Equestria." Garble declared.

Bahamut spoke from the medallion, "Watch yourself, kid. A dragon who roars with cockiness is always the first to fall."

"Mind your own business, you old fossil." Garble snuffed, as he walked on.

Stone and Spike watched him leave, before taking their own leave, "I don't like this." Spike told Stone.

"I know. Most of these dragons have their own kind of agendas which could be bad for the ponies of Equestria." Stone agreed.

"You thinking what I'm thinking?"

"I do," Stone agreed, "As much as I'd hate to admit it. One of us may have to win the Gauntlet for the sake of Equestria."

"Agreed. Better tell the girls about this." Spike suggested, as the two went back to warn the girls.

That night in Twilight's assigned room, the boys had just informed them of what they learned, "You really believe the dragons might be willing to wage war on Equestria should any of them win?" Rarity asked in worry.

"After what Garble said, I can assume there are plenty of dragons in the crowd who might share his belief." Spike answered.

"But that can't happen. We should warn Torch of this." Sunset suggested.

Bahamut spoke, "It won't make a difference. Torch is stepping down and has already declared for the tournament. He will not be able to give orders once a new leader is victorious."

"So what do we do?" Fluttershy asked.

"Spike and I will have to play to win the title and ensure no dragon like Garble gets any idea of waging war." Stone explained.

"Play to win?" Applejack asked.

"Yeah. One of us has to become Dragon Lord." Spike replied.

"Spike, while being Dragon Lord sounds like a dream, you already have responsibilities." Twilight reminded him.

"Well, what choice is there? It's either me, Stone, or one of them."

"And personally I'm not all for ruling the dragons. Sounds like too much work for me." Stone added.

"And yet you still wanna partake in it?" Octavia asked.

"If I must."

"Well, I guess there's no talking you two out of it, huh?" Applejack inquired.

"Nope." Stone answered.

"Well, it's late. We need our rest for the Gauntlet tomorrow." Spike said, 'Have a good night, girls."

"Goodnight, Spike." the girls said, as he left with Stone giving one last hug to Octavia before turning in as well.

As Spike was about to head to his room, he looked down a window seeing Ember flying off while carrying a bucket, "Now where's she off to?" he wondered, as he went to follow her.

Outside the castle, where no one could see her, Ember was applying camouflage paint to her body, "I'll show him. I'll show all of them I'm not just some Princess that needs to be protected." she grumbled to herself, while lathering some paint on her legs.

"Sounds like someone's got issues," Spike's voice came. Ember spun around to attack only for her arm to be caught by Spike's claw, "Easy there. No need to get worked up, ok."

"What're you doing out here?" Ember questioned with suspicion.

"I think that's my line. What's with the camouflage paint?"

"None of your business." Ember replied coldly.

"So much hostility. Torch was right, you are at that age." Bahamut said.

"If you two tell my dad I was out here, I'm gonna..." Ember raised a fist while threatening them, until Spike cut her off.

"Easy, Ember. I'm not gonna tell him anything I don't even know about. So why are you out here lathering up?"

"I'm camouflaging my scales so my dad won't recognize me."

"Why would you do that?"

"To compete in the Gauntlet of Fire."

"Really, against your dads wishes?" Spike asked.

"I don't care what he says!" she growled, "I'm gonna show him and every other dragon who thinks I'm a little princess that there are better things than being big and strong."

Spike smiled, "Such spirit and passion. Sounds like fitting qualities for a Lord of Dragons."

"Indeed." Bahamut agreed.

Ember taken aback by their words spoke, "You think so?"

"I know so," Spike answered, "I do like strong girls who don't need others to protect them. Shows how independent they are."

"Well, thanks." Ember replied while preserving her pride.

"But how long has your dad been like this?" Spike asked.

Ember sighed, "Since I was hatched he's doted on me so much, and now that I'm growing up he's refusing to acknowledge that."

"That's a father for you." Spike replied.

"Yeah, but not just a father. The ruler of all dragons." Ember replied.

"True, though I commend you for taking this initiative. Sometimes you gotta prove to others your worthy of something even without telling them."

"I just hope winning it will help convince him."

"Torch has always been a stubborn one, dear Ember," Bahamut said, "But beneath his stubborn hide is a dragon who cares deeply for his own."

"And I respect that, but I'll never get anywhere in life if he keeps putting size and strength over everything." she sighed.

Spike looked at the dragon girl knowing how desperately she wanted the title of Dragon Lord. Coming to sa new decision, he spoke, "You know what? I'm gonna help you."

Ember did a double take at what he said, "You what?"

"I'm gonna help you in becoming Dragon Lord."

"Why would you wanna help me?" Ember asked feeling suspicious.

"One, because I have no desire to rule all dragons. While it does sound awesome, it also sounds like too much work for me. And two, I have bigger things to deal with than becoming Lord."

"Oh, yeah. You've been fighting villains and monsters since you became a dragon." Ember recalled.

"That's right. And like you said you're smarter than all those boulder heads who're just looking to make meaningless laws just to benefit them alone."

"Uh, thanks." Ember replied, while looking away so he wouldn't noticed her face blushing.

"Plus I got a feeling you wouldn't declare war on ponies or anyone else for biased reasons."

"Hell no. I'm no war monger like other creatures throughout history."

"Another reason why I want to help you."

"You'd really do that for me?" Ember asked in disbelief.

"I do." Spike confirmed.

"And so would I," came another voice. The two looked and saw Stone approaching, "Sorry to eavesdrop but your conversation was so good I didn't wanna interrupt it."

"Why do you want to help me?" Ember asked.

"Much like Spike I don't have any interest in being Dragon Lord, and I also have my own work with helping him and the girls."

"So how about it, Ember? Partners?" Spike offered his claw out followed by Stone.

Ember looked at the two feeling this assuring aura around them before smiling and shook their claws, "Partners... Just so you two know, this doesn't mean we're going to pick flowers or exchange necklaces or anything like that."

"Don't worry, we don't do that stuff anyway." Stone assured her.

"Good. Now think you guys can help apply this paint to me?"

"Sure thing." Spike answered, as both he and Stone applied the camouflage paint to her scales.

As Stone was lathering up her wings, Spike was looking down at Ember's rack with his paint covered hands trembling, "Well, what're you waiting for?" Ember asked while getting impatient.

"Sorry, it's just you don't mind where I'm about to touch you?" Spike asked.

"Should I be?"

"Well, no. Believe me I have no problem. Though you know from what everyone said I do have the qualities of a pervert." Spike winced while admitting it.

"If it's between that or the chance to compete I'll take my chances with your hands."

'Oh, those words are so beautiful,' Spike thought, as he started lathering the paint on Ember's breasts while savoring the feeling, 'Perfect size and shape for fondling. This is awesome!' he heard Ember moan, "What's wrong?"

"Sorry, it's just. Try not to tease me like this, ok?" she blushed.

"Oh, right," he thought, 'Looks like she's got a side that loves this stuff too.'

'Spike, I don't think it's wise for you to be thinking about her like this,' Bahamut warned him, 'Remember what Torch would do if he heard you had these illicit thoughts about his daughter.'

'I know, but I can't help it.' Spike thought back while enjoying lathering up Ember, until her body looked like camouflage.

Meanwhile in Garble's assigned room, he was kneeling before a magic screen where Tirek was displayed on it, "Everything's in order, Master Tirek. They don't suspect a thing."

"Good. Keep it that way until the time is right. For tomorrow I expect nothing but victory from you."

"Yes, master." Garble answered, as his eyes glowed while gave a sinister laugh.