Spike's treehouse, nightfall
You couldn't get a more peaceful night in ponyville. The moon was out and full. Creating a bright and beautiful white light. A light that cascaded and spilled through the treehouse windows. Giving the drake no need to use a lantern. Only needing to light the fireplace with his green flames. The green hue became lighter due to mixing with the white of the moonlight. A color that surprisingly felt warm and homely. Along with the color painting the house, the soundscape complemented it. Only hearing the gentle howl of night time winds. The crack of burning wood in a fireplace. Releasing a scent of maple, most likely from the wood used.
Everything about the scenario should make it easy. Easy for a young love struck couple to be close and comfortable. Yet, this surprisingly wasn't the case for our unlikely couple. Most of their night was spent in awkward silence. The dragon spent his time creating a traditional chocolate cake. A recipe that was very much natural for him. Having made said cake for twilight multiple times in his life. The process was silent but quick. Mixing ingredients and heating them were made pretty simple. Due to the drake's latent ability to create fire. He was very particular about times and exact ingredients. Something that took years for him to learn. Heating things for just the right amount of time. Using just the right amount of ingredients. All things that didn't necessarily come naturally to him.
Yet all that time and practice created great results. Crafting a perfectly solid and fluffy cake. Icing perfectly spread onto it. Some sprinkles on the top for a bit of extra flair. It was a masterpiece of baking. It also tasted as good as it looked. Spike decided to accent the chocolate of the cake with vanilla icing. A choice that fluttershy was oh so in love with. Her reaction was the most joyful to spike. Hearing her let out melodic hums of joy. Savoring each bite of his creation. Nothing put a bigger grin on his face then seeing that. Yet, she still wouldn't look at him. Finding whatever was on the ground more interesting. She made attempts to look at him. The most she was able to do was thank him. Even so, it was more of a shy mutter then a full on statement.
When they both decided to move to the floor. Facing the green tinted flames of the fireplace. It seemed to be a similar place they were in earlier. Yet, for the both of them it felt quite different. A level of unaddressed, nervous tension was added. Both of them were most likely thinking the same thing. None of them wanted to say the words out loud. Too embrassed to even ask such a thing. At the moment, now, they just let the crack of fire speak for them. Laying down on the wooden floor. Uncarpeted due to sheer laziness from spike. Matter of fact, he didn't even have a couch. Just two small and rinky sofas. It was a shame, a crime and he needed to fix that.
"I really need to put some carpet on this floor" spike said out loud.
At this point he was really only speaking to himself. Honestly, wanting to hear some type of voice. Anything to break what was a really awkward silence. Fluttershy's ears perked up, like she was waiting for him to speak. Having an answer for him a little more quickly then he expected.
"You… you may not need to…" fluttershy replied in a hushed tone.
Hearing her voice slightly startled spike from his reclined position. It being the first time he's heard her voice since they got here. He tried shifting his gaze to the mare attached to said voice. If only for a second, he managed to do it. Then, it happened, the plague that was slowly killing this night. He started overthinking every little detail. There are some days where having a marefriend was unreal to him. It didn't make sense, how in the world did he pull it off? Not only does he have one but it was fluttershy. A mare he didn't even think about for the longest time.
Now here he is, in the dead of night, sitting with her. Although they set an awkward amount of distance between each other. They were still very much present in each other's space. He could help but admire her. Everything his eyes took a small glance at. Especially now, becoming rather difficult. The natural light catched her. In his mind, this was something it always did. Reflecting in her bright green irises. A color that the dragon thought suited her well. Her mane was starting to become a bit frizzled. Mostly due to the wear and tear of the day. Yet the bright pink and flowing nature was still something he saw. Looking even better when light bounces off it. She was a beautiful mare and always was in his mind.
Because of that fact, he found his own nerves frustrating. The only thing he wanted at that moment was to be close to her. But something as idotic as the time of day. It made any type of move he wanted to make. Feel like a deeper risk, pushing things somewhere he's never been before. He invited her over, he should be taking the lead. Yet here he is, 3 feet away from her. Almost like she was a hazard, someone he didn't care about. It was frustrating and he was tired of things staying this way.
"Ok, this is dumb.." spike said, releasing said frustration.
Fluttershy was shocked by this sudden release. She almost felt the same exact way he did. Dragons were such a unique thing to like. To be interested in, it was something she thought of. Scales instead of fur but scales that were so pristine. Harboring a unique shine to them. A shine that was very much alluring to her. Scales that would seem harsh and coare on the outside. Ended up being the most warm and comfortable to be alongside. Feeling safe whenever she was around them. More importantly, he knew how to make her feel wanted. A feeling that's been vacant in her heart for the longest time.
Yet, she couldn't even meet someone this special to her in the eyes. Those eyes that held the same green as hers, it frustrated her just as much as it did spike. Craving the same amount of closeness they had before. Even a little more based upon the very back of her mind. For some reason, her mind wouldn't allow it. Shaming her for even thinking in that capacity. Making her body rigid and attached to her current spot. A feeling she hated to the very core.
"Why are we like this right now?" spike spat out in frustration.
"I… i don't know…" she replied, not having a straight answer herself.
With her reply not giving him much to work from. He decided to just think, think about everything. Their current scenario and what they both assumed about it. There was one thing on his mind. A simple joke he told earlier proved it was in his head. Was it this invisible pressure of intimacy? Feeling like this was some sort of inevitable course. Feeling like the stupid joke he told earlier contributed to it. His gaze hit the ceiling, contemplating the next set of words. Sighing, he brought his head back to ground. Returning his gaze to his dejected looking mare.
"Hey, sorry about… you know…" spike tried to state, rather flustered while doing so.
Fluttershy heard what he was trying to say, knew the intent of what he was trying to get across. Her eyes were focused on the drake's face. Looking honestly apologetic. Something that she didn't truly understand. A fact that she was about to surprise spike with.
"Spike, it's ok, really…" fluttershy replied in her naturally timid tone.
"Huh?" spike reacted, shocked by her response.
"It's just… I've never been in this position before, I'm not sure what to do" fluttershy replied.
There it was, the revelation that spike expected. The one that he truly related to. Now knowing they were both on the same wavelength. Holding the same amount of nerves. Unsure of what moves they should or shouldn't be making. Due to holding the same thought process. Spike found it difficult to give a good piece of advice. His thoughts were racing a mile a minute. Then, in that very moment, it hit him like a bag of bricks. His head was telling him all these different things. Things to worry about, expectations of where things should go. He decided to ignore whatever his brain was saying. Something that he's had a hard time doing for his whole life.
Spike felt the distance between them. Feeling cold and isolating, his heart didn't like it. He directed his eyes to fluttershy. still seeming nervous and unsure. He felt the same amount of isolation from her. He was right here, she should have no reason to feel this way. Placing his hand on the wooden floor. He started inching towards the mare all by her lonesome. Fluttershy didn't even move an inch. Watching him close the distance between them. Yet, all she wanted to do was move closer. Be near him, feel the warmth she felt many times before.
"S...spi…" his name, the words were failing to come out.
It didn't matter, he heard it. It was only a couple seconds of time before they were face to face. Their eyes locked into each other. Green, bright iries reflecting off of each other. Fluttershy started cracking a small smile. Placing her forehead right onto his. Getting a good and up close look at her dragon.
"I'm done listening to my head, are you?" spike said in a whisper quiet tone.
Hearing those words, the force of them. She couldn't help but blush. Her smile started to break into a light chuckle. She nodded in response to his question. Spike ran his scaly fingers through the bright pink of her mane. An action she always loved that he did. A comfortable and light touch for what some would consider a fearsome creature. Those fingers ran down to her cheek, lightly cupping it. a warm smile painted on his face. He was happy and present with the one he truly cared about.
Fluttershy felt the same way. Yet, she started feeling something a little stronger. A feeling she wasn't so sure about. Only dating him a couple months. Technically, she's only seen him for half that time. The trip to canterlot cut that in half. Even still, this strong feeling was still inside her. She wanted to express that feeling. Keeping it inside suddenly felt like hell. Her eyes still on him, head resting in his hand. She started to let the words come.
"Spike, i lo…"
Before the words could even come out. A loud knocking jolted the two from their romantic position. Said knocking coming from the front door. He was a bit puzzled and on guard. It was pretty late and he wasn't expecting anyone. Spike couldn't help but be slightly annoyed. Cutting into what was a pretty big breakthrough for the night. He sighed, his hand still holding fluttershy's cheek.
"I gotta check the door…" spike said, annoyance baked in his tone.
Fluttershy nodded but she wasn't going to let him go that easy. Spike noticed a change in her facial expression. An expression he's never seen on her before. She looked… Well, she looked flirty. Her eyes were half closed, blissful really. A wicked grin was on her face. Only being expressed by her lips, not one bit of teeth showing. Before he could comment on this look. She lunged in and kissed him. It was deep but it was rather quick as well. Memorable for the young drake to say the least.
"I'll be waiting…" she replied in another new tone for her… sultry.
"I, uh, yeah ok!" spike replied, wanting to smack himself for sounding too excited.
Fluttershy didn't seem to mind it at all. Letting out a soft chuckle, sounding more like herself. A massive improvement from earlier in the night. Hopefully things could stay this comfortable for them. Low pressure just letting the mood of the night take them. Spike let go of her cheek and got up. Heading for the wooden front door. He held onto the knob for a second longer. The time of night made him nervous about who's behind him. He was hoping but not hoping it was trixie. He twisted the gold colored knob. Only they find the most shocking of guests.
"Well if it isn't the squirt himself!"
The cyan color of her body, the slightly frayed rainbow colored mane. Orange tinted aviator goggles. Spike couldn't believe what he was seeing outside of his door. It has been years since he's seen those colors in front of him. The words were coming to him, he was ready to say them. But his guest quickly beat him to it.
"R..rainbow dash?" fluttershy stutters out.
30 minutes earlier, outside of cake's bakery.
It took a bit of time but the stars finally started to show. Little orbs of white light peppering the sky. Rainbow Dash was always a fan of them. Making night flying one of her favorite pastimes. The air and atmosphere taking on a new feel at night. Looking up at the sky gave her these feelings. Missing the freedom that the sky gives her every time she's on the ground. Sky gazing was the current thing she was doing. Waiting for her two new friends to get their orders taken care of. She sighed, not understanding what was taking them so long.
"Maybe I shouldn't have insisted on freshly baked…" Rainbow muttered to herself.
Time was running low for her. Not wanting to show up too late for a visit to the treehouse. Although, she was pretty aware spike was awake. Remembering the little dragon to be quite the night owl. Spending his time finishing up reports for twilight. Now her train of thought danced to him. Last time she saw him, he was getting taller. Close to meeting her at eye level.
"It would be pretty freaky if he ended up taller then me…" rainbow said to herself.
To be honest, she was never quite sure about his age. According to twilight, his height was no representation of his age. At the time, he was about 1 year older then everyone. A fact that surprised the rainbow colored mare when she heard it. Things like that made him feel kinda bad for him. Seeing a lot of mares afraid to date him for one reason or another. Either dragons were a massive turn off. Or his height threw off any others that were interested. A reality that hopefully a growth spurt would fix. Last time they talked, he was due for one in at least two years. It's been at least four years since they last spoke. So that's at least two growth spurts worth of time. At least, that's what rainbow is guessing in her head at the moment.
Four years, just the thought of that time made her sigh. She didn't mean to have that much time away from her friends. Everyone went their separate ways. Wanting ponyville to be a closed chapter in their books. Well, at least some of them wanted that. She is only aware of 3 friends that stayed. Pinkie pie, fluttershy and the dragon himself. Yet, she hasn't seen pinkie for the entire day. Something she felt was quite odd in her book.
"Oh horse apples, i'm running out of things to think about!" rainbow dash exclaimed.
It's almost as if that thought answered her prayers. Two ponies bursted out of the front doors. The ponies she's been waiting too long for. Carrying small paper bags with them. She was happy to see that her ask ended up working out. A small grin started to crack on her face. Tonic wanted to smile back but his teeth was holding his bag. Not wanting to crush the donuts in his satchel. Trixie, perks of being a unicorn, was able to levitate the bag next to her. A trick that took little to no magical energy for her. Allowing her to return the smile she was given.
"Hey Trixie, i'm gonna go pay spike a visit, wanna walk with me?" rainbow asked.
"Nah, gonna get these donuts to my friend, might crash at her place tonight" trixie replied.
"Cool with me, i'll let spike know" Rainbow replied, smile never dropping.
"Was just about to ask that, he tends to worry sometimes…" trixie replied.
The moment those words left her mouth. Trixie saw the stifled bit of laughter rainbow was holding. Understanding what type of ideas she was holding in her mind. She turned to tonic, bag still held in his mouth. Therefore, his facial expression was pretty unreadable to her. But she imagined he was thinking the same thing.
"I'm sorry, that's just too cute…" rainbow said in between chuckles.
"Yeah yeah…" trixie replied, starting to blush.
"Anyways, better get going, I'm late enough as is" rainbow stated, starting to walk away.
Trixie thought about it, warning her. She decided to keep to the decision she made earlier. Let things play out the way they are. She was walking away. Waving goodbye to tonic as she was doing so. But a thought crossed her mind. She paused for a minute. Deciding to at least spare her a piece of advice.
"Hey!" Trixie called out, catching her before she left earshot.
"What's up?" Rainbow replied, her attention gained.
"You know… things will be different, not the same as you left them, right?" Trixie asked.
"Yeah, of course" Rainbow replied, slightly puzzled by her ask.
"Just.. just be prepared for that…" Trixie finished, rainbow nodding in acceptance.
With those words of advice, trixie was finally gone. Rainbow stood silent for a minute. Taking in what she said. Was that some type of warning? How much could things have possibly changed? She decided not to think too hard about it. Continuing her walk to the old treehouse. Hopefully prepared for whatever changes would await her.
Spike's treehouse: present time
It was almost like the whole room was frozen solid. Rainbow dash surprised that fluttershy was here at this hour. Her eyesight was flipping between spike and fluttershy. The yellow pegasus standing completely up and straight. But based on her location, she was probably sitting comfortable in front of the fireplace. The way spike approached the door, how much time it took. He was probably sitting comfortably next to her. Rainbow dash didn't want to immediately assume anything. Hell, she didn't even wanna ask at all. Wanting to keep her mind in a false reality. Making a decision to ignore whatever thoughts were approaching her head. Allowing the happiness of seeing friends take over her mind.
"Hey shy, long time no see…" Rainbow replied in a shaky tone.
Fluttershy was… well, she didn't know what she was. A mixture of excitement, anger and relief. Never receiving any type of contact from her in years. For a reason she still didn't understand. Not sure if she even wanted an explanation or not. It's practically undeniable that her actions hurt her. A hurt that would take a long amount of time to heal. Longer then the damage her body took while fighting rarity. Yet, she still couldn't deny the happiness. The memories she shared with such a long term friend. She slowly walked towards the door. Spike stepped out of her way. Knowing how important this moment must be for her.
They were now face to face. A first for them in literal years. Both contemplated what they were going to say. Words were never really Rainbow's strong suit. Sticking to action has allowed her to be a wonderbolt for so long. Yet, there were so many words trapped in her head. Feelings, emotions, long buried by time. All reappearing when looking her in the eyes again. They reflected repressed pain. Pain that she was responsible for. That idea started to reverberate in her mind. With that, the words she needed to say immediately came to mind.
"I'm so sorry" Rainbow stated, confidently and meaningfully.
Fluttershy wasn't expecting that from her. She was expecting excuses and justifications for what she did. Yet, nothing of the sort came from her mouth. just a genuine apology from what she remembered to be a loyal friend. her head wanted to ask the biggest question. why did it take so long for her to return? Yet, her heart was touched by the apology. the happiness in her mess of emotions won out. Grateful for her friend's genuine sounding apology. She tried to contain this overwhelming emotion. But water was already filling her eyes before she could think to do so. She thought of letting out words of acceptance. However, she soon let her actions say most of the words. rushing in to embrace her cyan friend.
Rainbow dash was caught by surprise by the action. although, for her it wasn't unwelcome. returning her admittedly tight embrace. hugs weren't necessarily something rainbow was comfortable with. Especially when she was getting older. yet, like always, she made exceptions for her friends. especially close ones who give good hugs. As she was holding her, muzzle buried in her unkempt pink mane. Her heart started to race again at the worst possible time. But before she could think too hard about it. fluttershy started to feel slightly wobbly in her grasp. Then, a wetness was starting to form on her coat. finally, she heard sniffles, stifled by her cyan coat. At this point, the fact was undeniable. Fluttershy was starting to cry. compelling rainbow to hold her tighter. Letting her cry as much as she needed. Feeling like she at atleast owed her that. Even if her coat will end up more of a mess then it already is. Once even the lightest sob quieted, she let her go. letting fluttershy break the embrace and step back a bit.
"I promised myself I wouldn't be like this…" fluttershy said, chuckling, her eyes still wet.
"it would kinda scare me if you weren't, emotions are kind of your thing" rainbow replied, chuckling herself
Spike was watching the whole thing. happy to see fluttershy finally reunited with her old friend. A moment that was a long time coming in his mind. while the question she stayed away so long was on his mind. The smiles and chuckles were infectious. deciding to leave those kind of questions for later. Right now, he wanted to catch up with an old friend.
While they were face to face, rainbow noticed something. something she wasn't paying attention to when she first laid eyes on her. the healing but significantly sized cut on her cheek. rainbow wasn't sure what to make of it.
"Hey, what's with the cut?" Rainbow asked, holding a tone of concern
Fluttershy paused, not really sure whether to tell her. Wanting the whole thing to be over and done with. slightly saddened by the breakdown of that friendship. Still holding out hope that she could possibly change. Something was eating at her but she knew it wasn't something she could fix. All of that made telling Rainbow what happened a bit of a hard choice. She was a very protective mare when it came to her friends. Knowing she'd probably get into a fight with rarity once she knew the truth. Far from what fluttershy wanted in the slightly. But lying was also something she couldn't do. Simply, fluttershy wasn't a good liar. So, she decided to choose her words carefully.
"I… i got into a fight with rarity" fluttershy stated in a low tone.
"Rarity did this to you?!" Rainbow replied in extreme disbelief.
Spike was surprised with how direct fluttershy was. What shocked him even more was rainbow dash's reaction. Or well, lack of reaction it seemed. She was quiet, processing what was told to her. Her eyes were now locked on the cut. Just imagining what she could have possibly done. Not remembering rarity to be violent. Matter of fact, she was quite the squeamish mare. Even the sight of blood would make her faint. So this confusion was taking up a majority of her mind. The guilt, more then she could personally handle. She directed her gaze at spike. The dragon she trusted to look after her. She needed a way to release this overwhelming guilt. Anyone to blame that wouldn't be herself for once. Her eyes were locked onto the drake. A look of both anger and disappointment ridden on her face. Spike felt this and wanted to quickly avert it.
"Maybe we should sit down and talk first" Spike insisted with an awkward smile.
Rainbow dash was inclined to ignore that ask. Preferring to chew him out a little bit. Lash out for his inability to protect her. Then, she heard a pair of hoofsteps move closer to her. Fluttershy was closing the distance between them again. Those green irises pierced through her emotion at the moment.
"Please.." Fluttershy pleaded with her.
Her voice calmed her slightly. While her irrational and slightly rage filled thoughts were still swirling. They were nowhere near close to action. Remembering the good and honest dragon spike is. That guilt wasn't subsiding anytime soon. Especially whenever she looks at her. She hated holding onto it. But if anything, she owed her at least this sitdown. She sighed, looking at the drake once more.
"Ok but you better not leave anything out" Rainbow replied, frustration in her voice.
Spike held an internal sigh of relief. The look she was giving him did unsettle the dragon. While it was still there, it was softening slightly. Walking to the kitchen, approaching the oak table. They all pulled out seats and settled in. Rainbow Dash's eyes were darting between the two. Waiting for one of them to start speaking. Both of them were just thinking of where to start. Leaving a lengthy silence. Finally broken by the drake letting out a small nod before speaking.
"Where do we even begin…"
10 minutes later
"Um.. wow…"
Was the only reaction she could hold. Rainbow didn't even know what to comment on first. Fluttershy being able to defend herself. Rarity seemingly heading on a homicidal path. Spike and fluttershy… Well, she didn't wanna think about that. The amount of crazy that was dropped on her. It atleast stopped her from completely chewing out spike. But before she could completely let him off the hook. Her eyes became dagger-like in their stare. Startling spike, knowing what she was going to say held importance.
"And rarity?" Rainbow dash asked in a deathly serious tone.
"I will handle it, promise" Spike replied, returning her tone.
"Not the kind I'm looking for.." Rainbow replied, still holding the same seriousness.
"Come on, really…" Spike let out in annoyance.
He knew exactly what she wanted. A type of promise, one that could never be broken. Yet, this promise was attached to the silliest pony. He promised himself those words would never be uttered in his life. Saving himself from both the embarrassment and the commitment. Hoping to gain support from his marefriend. His gaze turned to fluttershy, a last hope. Turns out, she felt the same exact way. Holding the same look as her friend, supporting her silently. With that, he knew it was settled. Unable to say no to his marefriend. So, with a heavy sigh, he let out the words.
"I pinkie promise.." Spike let out, utterly defeated.
"Much better" Rainbow replied with a satisfied grin.
With that grin, came a release of tension. Allowing fluttershy to even start a small chuckle of her own. Quickly getting over the slight embarrassment of making said promise. It allowed him to join in the breakout of laughter. Bonding over the seeming silliness of the words. Once their laughter dulled down. Fading into low, breathy chuckles. Something immediately came to her mind. Remembering the pink pony responsible for the promise.
"By the way, What happened to her? I haven't seen her around lately…" Rainbow asked.
"I don't really know, haven't seen much of her either" Spike replied, pondering the question.
"Should we be concerned? I've never seen her gone this long?" Rainbow asked aloud.
When this was asked, there was a small silence. Small but deep, the only thing echoing was the chirping crickets. That silence was broken by a series of coughs. Coming from none other then spike. He seemed fine earlier, and wasn't even drinking anything to choke on. Then, a small green flame escaped his mouth in a cough.
"Spike are you…" Rainbow was about to ask.
Spike couldn't answer as his coughs became drier. Flames trying to escape his closed mouth. After trying and failing to contain his coughs. He immediately knew what was happening to him. A mystical letter was incoming and he immediately knew what to do. instead of holding in the next burp. He gulped the air down until it created a small bubble in his throat. Immediately feeling the parchment growing inside the bubble. Holding till he felt it was the correct size, he finally let the bubble loose. Coming out as a large burp, the parchment ejected from his mouth. Dropping onto the table with a very dull thud.
"Excuse me" Spike said with a small chuckle.
"That looked… painful" Rainbow dash commented in concern.
"Just caught by surprise is all, i'm fine" Spike replied with a smile.
Rainbow nodded, taking his word for it. With that settled, all of their focus was now on the letter. Spike was expecting it was from either twilight or the princesses. Being the only ones he knows on the top of his head that would send him a letter this way. He picked up the small parchment from the table. untying the small red bow that kept the letter rolled up. opening the letter to be surprised by who sent it.
"Who's it from?" rainbow and fluttershy asked in unison.
"it;s… it's from pinkie" Spike replied in utter disbelief.
To my lovely friends
Thank you for being concerned about me. I hear your longing for pinkie in the distant winds. Well, mostly, that may just be the normal winds. Anyways, you must be wondering, how was I able to write this. Get a hold of royal parchment and know how to send a letter through dragon magic. Some questions…. you don't need the answers too… Wait, where was I? Oh yeah, where am i! I've been thinking about taking a trip for a while. Go around the big big world of equestria. Meet different ponies and make them happy! I wanted to throw a super duper party. Celebrate me expanding my horizons and such. But… I got a little restless and completely forgot about the party. I know, me, forget, a party!? But the call to adventure compelled me a little more. Anyways, I owe you all a super duper big homecoming party! I'll be back at the beginning of winter, when all the drama starts. How could i know such a thing? Just a feeling is all! Watch out for the puppetmaster that controls out lives… Joking of course! Can't wait to see you all soon!
From your dearest friend
Pinkie :)
"Huh, puppet master…" Spike mumbles to himself, pondering what she could mean by that.
"Puppet what?" Rainbow asked, hearing spike's mumble.
"Oh! it's nothing, nothing at all!" Spike quickly replied, dropping the letter.
Once the letter was returned to the table. Rainbow and fluttershy took a peak at the open letter. Reading through it and letting out the occasional chucke. Feeling the mare's trademark bubbly personality through the written words. A personality that all them dearly missed having around. Making the group nostalgic for better days.
"Good for her, I knew she always wanted to travel" Fluttershy said.
"Really. never saw her as the type?" Rainbow asked in genuine surprise.
"Yeah, it was one of her biggest goals after everyone left" Spike replied.
"Huh, wonder why I never saw her out there?..." Rainbow asked aloud.
"Could simply be you weren't paying attention" Spike replied to her ask.
"Don't know how that's possible, that pink blur is hard to miss" Rainbow replied with a chuckle.
While rainbow and spike were talking. Fluttershy was quiet, observing their conversation. The bright smiles and laughter. The three of them, talking like this. It was the closest she had to their original dynamic. Something missed for the longest time.
"Speaking of travel, how have the wonderbolts been treating you?" Spike asked.
Once she heard spike ask this question. Her ears perked up, having her own personal interest in the answer. Rainbow knew this, seeing fluttershy's gaze shift to her. But she had no worries at all. For rainbow, this question was one of the easiest to answer for one reason.
"Honestly, I love it…"
For rainbow, flying was like breathing to her. It's something she's always loved doing. You don't become one of the best fliers in equestria for no reason at all. There were times where being on the ground felt like poison to her. Hovering from it with every available opportunity. A habit that she had to teach herself out of. But even then, it was just so she didn't waste her energy. energy that could be used to fly faster and higher.
"Being a wonderbolt was like… a dream gig and now I'm a damn captain!" Rainbow said in excitement.
"Woah, that's… that's awesome, congrats" Spike replied
"Took a lot of hard work to get there but hey, i'm finally there" rainbow replied with a smile.
The satisfaction on rainbow's face was extremely apparent. Getting to captain was hard enough for her. Extra drills to bring her craft to perfection. Being on call for shows no matter where they were. On top of that, she dealt with her fair share of hazing. Something that she almost wanted to opt out of. But at the end of it, was a shiny gold badge. And all the respect and leadership privileges she wanted.
"I'm actually going to be directing my first show soon!" rainbow stated in continued excitement.
"By soon…" before spike could finish his sentence.
"A month away dude and even better, it's here in ponyville!" Rainbow finally revealed.
When fluttershy heard those words. A small pang of excitement hit her. If she remembered how the wonderbolts worked. This could only mean good things for her and rainbow reconnecting. However, she didn't want to trick herself. Get excited for something that might not even happen.
"Does that mean you'll be doing your training up here?" spike asked with cautious optimism.
"Buck yeah it does!" Rainbow replied in a burst of joy.
"Rainbow, that's amazing!" Flutterhshy chimed in with her own excitement.
The room was bursting with happiness and excitement. Fluttershy was already washed with ideas. Places she wanted to go, activities they could do together. Her mind jumps at the chance to recreate their old dynamic. Spike couldn't help but brew in that same thought process. Wanting that original energy to return for the longest time. The town held emptiness sometimes without it.
"So you're stuck with me for at least a month" Rainbow said with a small chuckle.
"There are so many things we have to do…" fluttershy was about to start.
Rainbow could immediately tell where this was going. And while she was more then happy to listen. A small yawn escaped her mouth. An internal sign of her draining energy. Her eyes took a quick glance at a small circular clock. Across the table, hanging on the wall above spike's head. It was officially past midnight. She didn't even mean to spend that much time here. Yet, with the company of good friends. The time just seemed to quickly pass by.
"Alright, it's getting late, I better get going…" Rainbow stated.
With that said, spike nodded in acknowledgement. While fluttershy, not ready to let her friend go. Let out a small but audible groan. An action that was too adorable for rainbow not to at least giggle at. An action that lightens fluttershy's attitude majorly.
Once they were all up from their seats. It was time for the three of them to exchange goodbye hugs. First up was spike, satisfied with a quick embrace and pat on the back. Then came fluttershy, which was something a bit more substantial. Fluttershy approached her, her forelegs draping over rainbow. Rainbow returns this action instantly. Her head was once again buried in her bright pink mane. A feeling that she didn't mind one bit. The softness of her fur was rather apparent, even when slightly disheveled. She wanted to hold onto this moment forever. But she was only given a solid couple seconds before the embrace was broken.
"it was really nice to see you rainbow dash" fluttershy said with a soft smile.
Her response should have been simple and quick. No need to linger on a thought or hold back a truth. Yet, this is what rainbow's mind was doing at the moment. A set of emotions, words were stuck in her mind. So many of them that she wanted to say. Yet, her stomach still turned in knots. The air she was breathing seemed to feel a little tighter. All the symptoms she hated being burdened with. Rainbow came here to confront those feelings. Get rid of the foolish fear that kept her away for so long. But here it is, the fear, poking out it's ugly little head. What felt like minutes of thinking were actually mere seconds. Rainbow quickly retorted with the safest of responses.
"You too, can't wait to hang out again soon" Rainbow replied with a nod and smile.
As she was making it out the door. She took a look back. Noticing the closeness between spike and fluttershy. A closeness she couldn't help but feel slightly jealous over. Harbouring slight denial over the truth of it. The nature of their relationship. But seeing the way she smiles at him, the way she slightly brushes up against him. They were trying to keep it subtle. But she knew they were just waiting for her to leave. Spend some very quality time together. She had no right to feel this jealousy. It was her who left the responsibility of looking after fluttershy. Leaving the opening for something like that to occur. If she knew this, then why did it still hurt to see it?
This wasn't something she wanted to think too hard about regardless. Becoming rather tired, just wanting some shut eye. But before she could even open the door. Something quickly came to mind.
"Oh, I ran into Trixie today!" Rainbow exclaimed, quickly catching the thought.
"Really…" spike replied cautious curiosity.
"Don't worry, she actually helped me a lot…" Rainbow said with a chuckle.
"Huh, well that's good to hear" spike replied, releasing a sigh of relief.
"Anyways, i'm supposed to tell you she's staying over with her friend tonight" Rainbow stated.
"Oh, alright, thanks for letting me know" Spike replied with a nod.
Rainbow reciprocated the nod, reaching the front door. Quickly making her exit from the humble home. Outside of the home, the door shut behind her. She took a moment to look up at the sky. Blank and starless, the moon being the only light in the sky. A slight shiver hit her, the chill of the night nipping at her. Or atleast, that's what she tells herself. Walking further away from the door, she was ready to take flight. But a small thought appears in her mind. Deciding to pace around towards a window. Wanting to see the truth she was in denial about.
Getting her peek inside, immediate regret hit her heart. Rainbow saw how happy she seemed. Snuggled up against the dragon, keeping warm in front of the fire. Her smile was full, eyes locked on him. Holding a happiness that she's never seen before. Honestly, part of her was really happy to see it. Happy to see she didn't end up making her miserable. Running from her for such a long time. Yet, a touch of sadness hit her heart. Knowing that she isn't the one warming her.
"Damn it…" were the last frustrated, muttered words of dash before she lifted off.
Spike heard the delayed cracking of the air. signaling dash's take off into the sky. Part of him wondered what took her so long to take off. But, at the moment, he decided it was none of his business. Occupied by the mare resting on his side.
"Looks like dash took off" Spike said aloud with a chuckle.
"Wonder where she's staying for the night…" Fluttershy inquired, a small yawn attached.
"Her home's mobile… hopefully" Spike replied, getting a laugh from Fluttershy.
For a short moment, there was a peaceful quiet. Letting the two of them relax in each other's presence. Spike's eyes were fixed on the bright green of his flame. Providing the warmth and color of the room. Then, the silence was broken by a loud but soft snore. He returned his gaze to the side. Fluttershy had quickly fallen asleep on his side. Curling up comfortably on his left leg. Her hair messily strewn across her face. Eyes peeking out of the mess. He chuckled to himself, the sight being quite cute. But that chuckle was quickly followed by his own yawn.
"Guess it is pretty late…"
Was the last thing the drake said before flopping the floor. His own loud, draconic snores matching hers. Ending what was a pretty good night for the both of them.
Meanwhile, at rose's shop
Maybe it was due to the sugat of the donuts, the quality of company, or simply just having rest. But the mare that passed out earlier was fully energized. Impatiently waiting for the donuts promised to her. Trixie was hoping she'd be able to slip by without having to face that impatience. It didn't last long though, the donuts were fresh enough to cancel it out. At first she didn't trust the warmth of the donuts. It being so late at night, she had questions about where they came from. Leading trixie to explain the type of day she had. Her getting a laugh out of the unbelievability of it.
Casual and fun conversation was most of their night. Hours of time was spent swapping travel stories. Catching up with all the lost time between them. After about an hour or so, things took a different turn. They migrated to the front of the store. Hiding behind the front counter like a group of filles. The sound of light chuckles breaking out from the object. But like times spent with friends, midnight conversation breaks out. Moonlight was spilling through the window panes of the shop. The white hue bathed the shop in a calming aura. Almost like Luna herself was placing a spotlight on them. Rose felt the effects of the light. Releasing a relaxed sigh, enjoying the aura of the moon.
"Nights like these make me wish I put a skylight in" Rose said out loud with a light smile.
"Skylight would be pretty badass, not gonna lie" Trixie replied with a light chuckle.
"Badass indeed…" Rose replied, reciprocating her chuckle.
As she was laughing, her gaze hit the ceiling. If only for a moment, she actually saw it. A clear picture in her mind. It wouldn't be an impossible job for a contractor to do. However, it would definitely be an expensive one. For the first time in a long time, that idea didn't make her shudder
"I should look into it, for real, could bring in customers" Rose said passively.
"I don't know if a simple skylight will have ponies banging down the door" Trixie replied.
"Oh young lulamoon, you have a lot to learn about showmanship" Rose replied with a small chuckle.
"Hey now, you're talking to the queen of showmanship!" Trixie replied in a familiar tone.
"You better not…" Rose warned, stifling laughter.
"The great…" trixie started, a spark of her old cadence returning.
"Please, oh spare us from her presence…" At this point, she was begging for her return.
"And powerful… trixie!" She finished, her original voice and spirit fully realised.
And with that, she was done. Tracy broke out into a full and infectious laughter. Trixie followed along with her. It was freeing, if only for that second, to become her. That persona held all of her confidence. A trait that she missed being able to hold onto. Without the damage she wrought when her ego was uncontrollable. As the laughing started to die out. Goofy grins plastered on their faces. Rose let out a statement that was on the top of her mind.
"Let's hope that ego maniac never returns"
Punctuating the statement with another chuckle. Rose saw nothing wrong with what she said. It should be something to easily agree with. Yet, when she turned to her friend, something was off. The laughter they were both indulging in. Became awkward and stilted from her end. Her head was tilting slightly downwards. Signaling either embarrassment or shame. Atleast, that's the emotion she was attaching to her. At the end of the day, she couldn't truly read her mind.
"Right…" Trixie replied, a tone of dejection ridden in her voice.
When rose heard this shift, she wasn't sure how to feel. Wanting to feel sorry for hurting her friend. Yet, she had no qualms about what she said. In her mind, that was the purest of truth. A truth that she hoped her friend would agree with. But, she wanted to at least know what was bothering her.
"Hey…"
Calling attention to her friend. Trixie's head snapped up from it's downward state. It's direction immediately locked on to rose. Trying her best to come off as normal. Unaffected by the small joke she told. Rose wasn't buying her act at all. However, before she began to address her. Both of their attention was peaked by a knock on the door. First starting as a rather dull thud to a harsh banging. Signifying it was someone who was operating with urgency.
"Were you expecting anyone?" Trixie asked her friend, cautious of the late night knocking.
"Maybe" She replied with the straightest face.
A move that surprised the light blue mare. Rose quickly made a small leap over the counter. Trixie only poked her head out from behind said counter. The door wasn't glass, so she couldn't get a look at the stranger yet. Rose approached with caution. Slowly but surely making her way to the door. The thuds still continuing from the other side. Then, for a second, they stopped. When the knocking stopped, she was already in front of the door.
"r..rose, are you here?"
The voice lacked a sense of confidence. Rather awkward in his delivery. Yet, his tone was rather gravely. Conflicting with the shakiness of his cadence. That low, gravely tone was something trixie did recognize. She just couldn't truly pinpoint it yet. While she was still trying to figure out who's behind the door. Rose let out a sigh of relief. A smile growing on her lips.
"Talce, you scared me half to death!" She exclaimed with a small chuckle.
"Oh, uh… sorry.." The voice behind the door replied.
"You're fine, really, just come on in" Rose replied, jovial in her tone.
Trixie was surprised by the sudden shift. However, she was glad about it no longer being a stranger. Or, atleast, someone that Rose was familiar with. Good enough for her, she started progressively rising from behind the counter. While doing this, The wooden door was cracking open. Revealing the mysterious stranger to the mare. Once she laid eyes on him, a shot of fear hit her heart.
The tall, grey and lanky body. A bright white but sharp set of teeth and fangs. Claws matching the sharpness of his teeth. Standing tall on his feet, the claws on them being receded at the moment. A pair of black, thick rimmed glasses rested on his face. Conflicting with the typically fearsome look. Although, those glasses were not hiding the truth in front of It. Trixie was looking straight into the eyes of a diamond dog. Unable to hide a sense of unease from her face.
He tried not to mind it. The look of fear in her eyes. But that look was something he was way too familiar with. Matter of fact, it was something he expected. Yet, that never stopped it from hurting when it happened. He moved his paw to the back of his neck. Nervously rubbing it for comfort. His gaze shifted downwards towards the floor. Paws making a retreat to his vest pockets. Feeling a piece of paper inside,recalling his reason for coming. Deciding to focus on that instead of the light blue mare's reaction to him.
"i… I didn't just come to visit…" Talce said, A shaky confidence ridden in his voice.
"Then… Did you find it?" Rose asked, a hopeful glint in her eyes.
All Talce could do was nod. Grabbing the piece of paper in his vest pocket. Taking it out to reveal a worn locking light orange parchment. He unfolded it to reveal what seemed to be hand drawn mapping out of a small camp. Rather small in its size, meant only for temporary use. But a couple things did stand out. The big circle dotted right in the middle of the camp. A green stone, drawn inside of this massive circle. A small mass of tiny dots were placed in front of this circle. Almost like a crowd was surrounding the location. Rose was deeply studying these details. While Trixie was just puzzled at what she was looking at.
"Wha… what is this?" Trixie asked, befuddled by the drawing.
When trixie asked this question. Both of them froze, Talce looking at rose. Looking for validation on whether it would be right to tell her. It was a risky plan, something they've been planning for months. Part of rose didn't wanna involve trixie in it. Intending to keep her friend safe from what could be a bad decision. Yet, trixie could be a reliable third member. After a couple seconds, her mind was made up. She turned to her friend and summed it up simply.
"Short version, We're still a rare gem from an alpha diamond dog" Rose flatly stated.
When she heard this statement. Her head was flushed with so many questions. Looking at her friend, who wanted to do something this stupid. Quickly glancing at the diamond dog. Who at the moment was willing to betray his pack. But all those thoughts were summed up with one response.
"I'm sorry… what?!"
An: Oh my god guys, i'm am so excited for this storyline. Next chapter is Probably my most ambitious one yet. Rocking the story's pace. And also just having some genre fun. Can't wait for you guys to read it. Thanks for reading already
Mysterypen :)