The pony behind the tree chuckled this brokenhearted dragon would be the key to victory.
"Well if it isn't a little dragon, what are you doing all alone?" the pony said comfortingly.
"Who are you?" Spike asked in tears.
The pony knew he was easy prey due to his broken heart his vulnerability was clear.
"I am Sparky, and of course I know who you are Spike the Brave and Glorious." the pony bowed.
"You really think of me as Spike the Brave and Glorious?" Spike asked happily.
"Of course doesn't Twilight think of you that way?" Sparky asked already knowing the answer due to hearing the fight between Spike and Twilight using his magic.
"Well no she even thought that she never should've hatched me from my egg." Spike said in tears.
"There, there it's not your fault, she doesn't deserve such a nice creature like you." Sparky said comfortingly smirking as the dragon was starting to trust him.
"Thank you I really appreciate it." Spike said happily.
The dark unicorn smirked at the dragon before tying Spike up with magic and carried him to his lair.
"Hey what gives, let me go." Spike struggled hopelessly.
"No can do, little Spike you will be very useful to my plans." Sparky smirked.
Kids, do not talk to strangers.
Oh, things are really getting interesting now with this Sparkly character showing up.
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Since it was not common to see dragons in Canterlot, or in Equestria proper, to the point of them planting Dragon Sneeze Trees in lots of places... I'm going to say that was supposed to be a gage to measure magical aptitude, determination, creativity, and the courage to fail.
Twilight passing that "unwinnable" test is likely what made her so neurotic, and failing tests her worst fear.
So, if she had failed to hatch Spike, I still think she would have made it in, but whether or not she'd be the "faithful student" is up in the air.
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Oh ok. Also, I’m glad I saw this because there was no notification.