Ever since the events of his birthday, Spike has feared and suppressed his species' natural behavior. However, when one chains the beast too long, natural tendencies tend to break loose. Spike, along with his friends, must discover a way for Spike to control his natural behavior and continue to live alongside the ones he loves. But is this possible?

Which is more powerful: nature or nurture?

While normally far from the type to play video games, especially violent ones, Rarity finds herself convinced to join the girls in playing Black Sunset, one of the most popular games in the country. It's not long, however, until the game has her thinking about what's going on with her life. Namely, Spike. While the years had both washed over them, blossoming her into a mature, college educated woman and Spike into a fine lad himself on his junior year in high-school, his obvious interest in her has yet to fade. Rather, it's grown stronger.

A part of her yearns for the simpler times, back when he was a child with a childish crush.

But another faint, diminutive part of her is curious. Wanting. Wanting to sit back and listen to him. Listen to him express himself to her.

In his own way.

Thanks for the featured guys! It's a great honor!

Wrote for the contest in the Sparity group. Check out some of the other contenders, I'm sure they'll be top notch!

Special thanks to Peregrine Caged and Jake the Ginger for editing and being bros. Addational pre-reader thanks also goes to:

Xl9
Mr.101
and RainbowBob

Thanks guys! Couldn't do it without you.

Rainbow Dash gets the chance of a lifetime when she receives a letter inviting her to the Wonderbolt's training camp for tryouts! With her now coltfriend Big Macintosh in her corner, as well as her five best friends, Dash is determined to make her dreams come true! As she discovers certain obstacles in her path, how much will she sacrifice in order to realize her ultimate goal? Will her relationship with Macintosh survive her ambitions?

Featured on Equestria Daily.

A direct sequel to At Home On The Range.