Shipping Grab Bag

by Jondor

Rating: teen
Tags: Sex, Main 6, Slice of Life, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Romance
Length: 13277

Variety is the Spice of Life. 15 prompts, 15 Mane 6 x Mane 6 ships. Are you a bad enough dude to read them all? (10 of 15 done, teen sex tag included for a couple steamy chapters, nothing explicit.)

Written for the Variety is the Spice of Life challenge. Each prompt features a different Mane 6 x Mane 6 ship.

Teen Sex tag applies only to certain chapters (noted in the titles) for edgier content, but nothing explicit.

Chapters are presented in the order of the tags given in the original challenge, not in the order written.

(10 of 15 ships done, new chapters will be posted as the rest are written.)

Cutie marks in cover image and chapter banners came from here.

Published 2013-05-15 07:00:02 UTC
Last updated 2013-11-14 18:13:46 UTC

A Hug (RariPie)

It all began with the hugs. Pinkie Pie is a very physical pony, so getting a hug from her was not unusual. In fact, she has a rather tenuous grasp on the concept of ‘personal space’, so getting a long, full body contact sort of hug was not unusual either.

The unusual thing about these hugs was something so small and subtle that not many ponies would notice it. Neither Applejack, nor Rainbow Dash, nor even dear Fluttershy would see anything unusual. I think only Twilight and myself possess the necessary attention to detail, and I do not think Twilight would recognize it for what it was without other factors to back it up.

The unusual thing was that Pinkie would hug me just a little more often and for just a little bit longer than anypony else. It was a small discrepancy to be sure, but in the end, it made all the difference.

Once I had taken notice, I began to look for other signs. Looking forward as well as searching my memory, I began to notice a pattern. Pinkie seemed to favor standing next to me, even when she had no reason to actively hug me. She seemed to be making an effort to spend more time with me on a regular basis. I even wondered about Pinkie’s having stranding us in the Appleloosan desert, was that related? Did this start so long ago?

Of course, I could not be positive from such circumstantial evidence, but it did seem that Pinkie Pie harbored a crush, and I was the object of her affection. And yet, if that were true, there had to be more to the story. Pinkie Pie is a very outgoing pony and not normally given to subtlety. If she did yearn for me, but had not made that fact immediately clear, there must have been a very good reason behind it.

The very first thought to come to my mind was not a very likely one, but it did turn out important in its own way. You see, as a relatively new settlement in the grand expanse of Equestria, many prosperous Ponyville families are related to each other. Applejack and I share a connection by marriage, a great great uncle of mine married a great great aunt of hers, on the Orange side of her family, I believe. Pinkie and I, however, share a remote connection by blood. Twilight discovered during a research project some time after her coronation that we share a common ancestor seven generations in the past.

Some further thought convinced me that this could not explain Pinkie’s actions. Her odd behavior began some considerable time before our connection was discovered. Nor did the matter worry me, such a small connection is enough to feel a touch sentimental perhaps, but is trivial otherwise. It is rumored that the nobility actively encourages much closer connections, which I find believable.

That idle thought about the Canterlot nobles brought up another consideration. Perhaps Pinkie Pie believed I was only interested in stallions. Stallions have long been my strong preference, but I am not immune to the charms of mares. Flirting with young bucks is easy when you put as much thought into your appearance as I do, but it is not satisfying. All give and no take. Mares are more interesting, mares flirt back and then it becomes a challenge. I adore a challenge.

I considered the situation. Pinkie is a sweetheart, even if she can be somewhat unusual at times. Unless I was misreading the signs, she was making an effort to show me a little extra affection and enjoy a little more of my presence in a most un-Pinkie-like fashion. Having decided, I set out to return the gesture in kind and gauge her reaction before finally bringing the issue into the open. The results were startling to say the least.

“Thanks for inviting me over Rarity! I love having tea parties with my friends!”

“You’re quite welcome, darling. Though, I must confess, I had a reason for inviting you over beyond sharing some tea.”

“Ooh, what is it? Is it something fun?”

“Mmm, perhaps. I wonder if you might confirm or deny a suspicion of mine.”

“Gossip? Ooh, is it juicy? Who’s it about?”

“Well... It’s about you and myself actually.”

“Gasp and shock!”

“You see darling, I’ve noticed that you seemed to be making somewhat of an effort lately to be closer to me.”

For what I believe is the first time since I’ve known her, Pinkie had nothing to say and simply stared blankly at me.

“Please understand, darling, I shall take no offense either way. You seemed to be happy when I tried to respond in kind, but I could just as easily have misread the signs. I merely seek confirmation one way or the other.”

I feared I may have been too blunt, but for reasons unknown at the time, Pinkie Pie was much more fearful than I. If anything, I would have expected anger, but there was no malice, just fear.

“Oh no, oh no, oh no... Stupid, stupid curse. You weren’t supposed to figure it out.” Her mane and tail drooped from their usual exuberant curls, laying flat and dull against her as she backed across the floor. She looked frightened as if I were a large predator, ready to strike.

“Pinkie, wait, please...” I tried in vain to call her back, but she fled through the door.

As the bell hit the floor with a sad tinkling sound, I heard Pinkie’s parting words echo in my head as she galloped away in tears. “I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to hurt you, Rarity.” It was several hours before I could bring myself to move from that spot.

“Rarity, please tell me you’ve seen Pinkie Pie. She hasn’t been seen for several days now and the townsponies are starting to go a little nuts.”

“I’m afraid I haven’t, Twilight...”

“Do you have any clues at all? I mean at least the weather isn’t all haywire this time, but Rainbow Dash can’t keep everyone happy with clear skies for much longer or we’ll have a drought on our hooves... Um, are you okay, Rarity? You’re looking kinda down.”

“No, darling. I’m afraid Pinkie’s disappearance may be my fault.”

“Your fault?! How?”

“Pinkie became infatuated with me, at least I believe so. I attempted to confirm my suspicions, with full intent to reciprocate if I was right, but something about the situation frightened her beyond all reckoning. She fled in tears and... and I have n-no idea where...”

I had spent the previous several days in a perpetual fog, not wanting to believe what had happened. Relating the story finally made it very real. I did not even have the energy to summon my chaise lounge, I broke down sobbing upon Twilight.

Some time later, Twilight was still comforting me in my doorway when Fluttershy returned with news. She and several other non-weather certified pegasi had been sent to scout for Pinkie.

“Twilight, I found her. She’s safe at least, on her family’s rock farm, but she says she won’t come back to Ponyville.”

“What?! Did she say why not?”

“She said that she hurt Rarity and she’s afraid that they can’t be friends anymore and that she’s better off living with her curse on the rock farm so she doesn’t end up hurting any more ponies.”

“Hurt me? I was afraid I’d hurt her. And that’s the second time she’s mentioned a curse. Was that all?”

“I’m sorry, Rarity. She definitely didn’t seem like herself. I had to listen through a lot of nonsense just to get that much out of her.”

None of this was making sense, but this supposed curse had to be the connection to get to the bottom of it. I wiped away my tears, set my jaw and stood up, removing myself from Twilight’s embrace. “Twilight, Fluttershy, please excuse me. I am not sure exactly what is wrong with Pinkie Pie, but I seem to have caused it and I intend to make it right. I have a rock farm to visit... just as soon as I fix my mane and makeup.”

“Pinkamena Diane Pie! You have another visitor!”

Pinkie looked up from where she sat, forlornly chipping at a rock with a pickaxe clenched in her teeth. She gave a cry of surprise when she saw me and took off running. I wasted no time galloping after her, I intended to solve this mystery. Pinkie was clearly not herself, she ran without using any of her little tricks, but she was still an Earth pony and it showed. I was hard pressed to keep up, let alone catch her.

“Pinkie, please stop! I just want to talk!”

“I can’t! I messed everything up and let you figure it out and now you’re going to hate me and that makes me a horrible friend!”

“You’re not making any sense! I don’t hate you!”

“But you will! My stupid curse is going to make you hate me, all because I couldn’t help myself.”

Pinkie’s tears returned and she seemed to be having trouble keeping her speed up because of it. I seized my opportunity as I caught up to Pinkie’s tail, leaping into the air and pushing off against the ground with my telekinesis, I landed squarely on her back and tackled her to the ground. Desperate times call for desperate measures.

As soon as Pinkie stopped struggling and I caught my breath, I spoke up. I tried to be as gentle as possible, but I was still pinning her to the ground. “Pinkie, I don’t hate you, I just want to figure out why you’ve been acting so strangely. Just what is this curse you keep mentioning for one thing?”

Pinkie would not meet my gaze, her head turned to the side, but she did answer. “My dad was never very happy that I didn’t have a rock cutie mark,” she began in a dull voice, “and he was especially not happy when I left the farm. He cursed me when I left so that nopony would ever love me for real unless they have some kind of rock cutie mark.

“I didn’t believe him, but it’s true. All the coltfriends and fillyfriends I ever had broke up with me.” Pinkie’s eyes began to well up with tears. “I t-tried so hard not to, but you’re so pretty and hard working and confident, I f-fell in love with you, Rarity. I thought maybe I’d be okay if I just s-stood close to you or gave you a little extra hug sometimes. I c-could love you and you’d n-never know, so you’d n-never end up h-hating me, but you f-figured it out...” Pinkie was sobbing uncontrollably by now and yet, I couldn’t help but smile. The answer was right in front of her and she hadn’t seen it.

I lay down with Pinkie, no longer pinning her, but holding her and stroking her mane. The dirt could go to Tartarus, I had a loved one to comfort. When she had finally cried herself out, I held her close and kissed a relatively clean part of her forehead.

“Pinkie, my darling, is that all?”

“Is that ALL!?” Pinkie seemed shocked at my question, but I forestalled her with a gentle hoof pressed to her muzzle.

“Pinkie, do you recall Twilight’s discovery that we have a common ancestor?” I pressed on as she nodded. “My father is an Earth pony from a family of miners.” As I lit up my horn, the scattered geode deposits growing on the rock farm became visible through the earth. I made a sweeping gesture with my hoof, drawing Pinkie’s eyes to the three diamonds on my flank. To my everlasting relief, Pinkie’s mane and tail regained their usual cotton candy curls and her eyes lit up just as bright as my horn as she hugged me tightly.

Author's Note

This one borrows from BOTH of my favorite places to pick ideas from.

The idea of Rarity and AJ having a family connection comes from TheLastBrunnenG's The Rustic and The Romantic. I extended the concept to Rarity and Pinkie, as my headcanon on the rock farm is that they grow geodes there via the ever mysterious Earth Pony Magic(tm).

The idea of Pinkie's curse came directly from bookplayer, and the whole fic itself is an attempt to apply lots of the advice from that same forum thread.

A Kiss (FlutterDash)

Locker Room Romance?

New Wonderbolts recruit Lightning Dust seen locking lips with Wonderbolts Rookie starlet Rainbow Dash in crowded Cloudbuster Cafe this week! Shocking photos inside!

Inside the Carousel Boutique was a somber scene of misery and woe. Rarity and Fluttershy sat, cuddled in a heap in the middle of the floor, the former levitating over tissue after tissue and doing her best to comfort her friend, while the latter let out wailing sobs, occasionally wiping her eyes or nose on the tissues and discarding them to an ever mounting pile around the two ponies. Fluttershy had come banging in over a half hour previous, her eyes already puffed, swollen, and red, and in that time, Rarity had been able to glean precious few details from her distraught friend.

When Fluttershy’s sobs finally started to quiet down, Rarity made another attempt to get a grasp on the situation. “Shhh..” she soothed, still holding the pegasus and stroking her mane softly, “tell me again what’s wrong, darling. All I’ve been able to hear so far is ‘Rainbow Dash’ and ‘Lightning Dust’.”

A fresh wave of sobs erupted at the mention of those two names, but Fluttershy finally managed to answer coherently. “D-Dashie and L-Lightning Dust were kissing in some c-cafe in C-Cloudsdale.” She moaned between sobs. “I r-read it in the Equestrian S-Star.”

Rarity crinkled her snout in distaste. “Hardly a reliable source of information, dear.”

“But there were p-p-pictures!” Rarity floated over a fresh supply of tissues to stem the renewed wave of tears gushing forth.

While she waited for Fluttershy to calm down once again, Rarity reached out with her magic, with some considerable strain at that distance, to retrieve her mail which included a copy of the magazine in question. Still comforting Fluttershy, she flicked through the blurry pictures, all of them shot from several tables away and depicting Lightning Dust kissing a rather annoyed looking Rainbow Dash on the cheek.

If she was any judge of Dash’s character, the situation was not as hopeless as Fluttershy was making it out to be. Rarity set the magazine aside and turned her full attention back to her distressed friend. “Has Rainbow Dash been home since you saw this?”

“Y-Yes.” Came the choked reply.

“And what did she have to say?”

When the door of the cottage banged open, Fluttershy was already in tears, holding the offending magazine in her hooves.

“Oh jeez, Fluttershy, I can explain.” Rainbow Dash started, a note of desperation in her voice.

Fluttershy could only stare down at the magazine, tears dripping onto it with soft, wet plops.

“Look, Lightning Dust just kind of grabbed me and when I saw the guy leaving with a camera, I tried to stop him, but she just pulled on my tail and then Spitfire called us all in for drills...”

Rainbow had been slowly walking toward Fluttershy as she tried to explain, but her words trailed off when Fluttershy let out a wailing sob, dropping the magazine and galloping past her, out the door and into town.

Dash ran after her as far as the door of the cottage. She could have caught up easily, but she didn’t know what to say if she did. Hovering back over to the magazine Fluttershy dropped, she picked it up and flew toward Sweet Apple Acres.

A streak of red and brown whizzed through the air as a bruised, but still rather solid apple connected with a splat and thunk with the rainbow maned back of a stubborn pegasus head.

“OW! Jeez, AJ! What was that for?!” Dash rubbed the back of her head, wiping mushy apple out of her mane.

“Seein’ how thick yer skull is. My words don’t seem ta be gettin’ through to ya.” Applejack bounced another apple on her hoof and seemed pleased when Dash cringed and sank to her haunches.

“But AJ, it wasn’t my fault, I swear.” Rainbow’s voice was almost a whimper.

“An’ if you’d listen, I told ya that don’t matter one bit.” Applejack’s hooves thudded against the hard dirt path as she walked over and sat in front of Dash. “First things first, you apologize.”

Orange hoof met cyan lips to stop the protest that was about to form. “Shush, you. It don’t matter if ya did somethin’ wrong or not. Your fillyfriend is hurting, first ya patch things up, then y’all can clear yer name.”

“But-” Dash’s protest was silenced by a bop on the head, not hard or vicious, but a warning a bit more intense than a silencing hoof.

“Let me give ya a piece of advice from Granny Smith, an if ya ain’t got it figured out by then, well, yer on yer own.”

Dash gulped at the fierce glint in her friend’s green eyes, and nodded silently.

“‘Anypony who thinks they’ve won a family argument has actually lost it.’ An’ let me tell you, I may ferget from time ta time, but that advice has got me out of trouble plenty of times.” Applejack nodded sagely.

The fire in Dash’s eyes seemed to go out momentarily, but it rekindled almost at once. “Thanks, AJ. I.. I gotta go fix this.” She spread her wings and took off in a flash of rainbow color.

Applejack smiled before turning back to her trees.

Rarity could hear the bell tinkle while she prepared some tea in the kitchen. She silently slunk over to peek out the kitchen door and make sure Fluttershy hadn’t left. The sight of Rainbow Dash in the doorway gave her pause, and she was about to burst back into the showroom when she took in the large box of chocolates she was holding. She suppressed a bit of very unladylike drool and went back to her tea, holding the door open ever so slightly with her magic to listen in.

Fluttershy could hear Rarity’s last words, before she went to make tea, ringing in her ears as Dash came in through the door.

“I’m sure she was telling the truth, darling. She didn’t think to apologize because she hadn’t done anything wrong. She probably just wanted to explain. That’s very like her.”

Fluttershy sniffed back the last of her tears and sat up, trying to straighten her mane a bit before speaking, but Dash got there first.

“Flutters, I’m...” she paused for a moment, trying to sort out the right words. “I’m really sorry. I didn’t mean to hurt you. I love you, only you. I w-” The rest of her words were cut off by a pair of butter yellow lips pressed to her own.

“I know, Dashie. I’m sorry too.” Fluttershy breathed when their lips finally parted. “You just wanted to explain, I should have known that. I love you too.” Fluttershy leaned in for another kiss.

Rarity, not wanting to ruin the moment, was stuck in her kitchen for quite some time.

A Date (Twinkie)

Sparkle’s Log: January 1st
Current Status: Mild hangover due to excessive ethanol consumption.

New Year’s Eve festivities were very high in fun quotient, despite elevated embarrassment levels. The latter effect was paradoxically both caused and mitigated by consumption of 80 proof ethanol disguised as apple cider. Overall outcome remained positive, but further research into optimal level of ethanol consumption for maximum fun to embarrassment ratio may be required.

Festivities included many common party games, a large variety of refreshments (solid, liquid and colloid, the latter was most excellent), dancing with supplied auditory stimulus (not recommended to be combined with refreshments unless a proper time interval has elapsed), and much social interaction.

The festivities culminated in a brilliant night sky display provided by Princess Luna, viewable across all of Equestria. However, this display was accompanied by a curious social custom requiring the division of the group into pairs. Although many such pairs seem to have been decided upon in advance (e.g. Lyra and Bon Bon), others were decided upon during a game of Truth or Dare immediately preceding the display (e.g. Myself and Pinkie Pie).

This social custom involved sharing a kiss just at the moment the night sky display began. My observation of examples was impeded by Pinkie Pie’s enthusiasm for the custom, resulting in a much longer contact than I expected. I must tentatively attribute her enthusiasm and my capitulation to the aforementioned ethanol consumption, pending further study.

Regarding further study, Pinkie Pie has invited me to a private event later this week. I agreed to the rendezvous as the contact should allow me a golden opportunity for further study into the mysteries of Pinkius Pieicus.

Sparkle’s Log: January 8th
Current Status: Mild confusion and heightened curiosity.

Private event with Pinkie Pie resulted in fun, high in both quality and quantity, despite limited attendance. Observations into behavior of Pinkius Pieicus were inconclusive, however.

The first phase was executed at Sugar Cube Corner and involved the creation of various sweetened baked goods. The process was much more scientific than I anticipated, my help was solicited in measuring and recording pH levels of various intermediate stages, optimum moistening and particle distribution of pre-baking batter phase, results of the maillard reaction and optimum baking temperatures, and overall aesthetics of the final product. Overall fun quotient was very high and the treats were delicious. Behavior patterns indicated a balance of chaos and order. Movements and actions of Pinkius Pieicus appeared random on the surface, but when observed as a whole, remained well ordered, showing remarkable ability to keep multiple phases of baking in progress simultaneously

Second phase was executed at the local park. Low intensity exercise combined with light conversation. The exercise was most welcome, offsetting some of the calorie intake of phase one. Conversation consisted mainly of questions and what if scenarios. Topics covered were personal, but not invasive. Although my experience with such conversations is limited, I attempted to respond in kind while silently observing. Exercise ceased with the setting of the sun and was replaced by observation of the night sky while conversation continued, shifting to existential topics and the nature of reality. I found Pinkie’s views quite insightful, if not somewhat unorthodox, and find myself eager to continue the discussion at a later date.

Pinkius Pieicus remained quite calm throughout phase two, but showed a high tendency toward physical contact. I found it strangely pleasant. The event ended at the Golden Oaks Library door in a subdued repeat of the New Year’s social custom. Hypothesis concerning ethanol consumption intensifying the experience can be tentatively confirmed, however further study is justified.

Sparkle’s Log: January 15th
Current Status: Excited and nervous.

Pinkie Pie has invited me to another private event in two days time, I believe the colloquial term “date” is appropriate to describe the event. Accordingly, I have rescheduled several items on my todo list in order to consult with Rarity about preparations. Anticipating further study into ethanol consumption, kissing, and behavioral patterns of Pinkius Pieicus.

Sparkle’s Log: January 18th
Current Status: Thoughtful

Preparations for my date with Pinkie Pie involved a substantial expense of time for the application of makeup, styling of mane and tail, and fitting of clothing. Results were mildly uncomfortable, but highly appreciated by my companion who appeared to have undergone a similar experience, the results of which were pleasing to myself as well.

Our date began with a movie at the local theater. The movie was only mildly interesting (my preference being slanted more toward Science Fiction than Romantic Comedy), but the dark theater proved to be an excellent venue to study kissing and make baseline observations before the inclusion of ethanol.

After the movie, we moved to a moderately upscale restaurant. I felt concern about the cost, but Pinkie Pie assured me that she had the situation under control. I must make plans to return the favor. Dinner was accompanied by conversation on both personal and existential topics, with emphasis on the former, as well as generous consumption of wine. Movement on the return trip to Sugar Cube Corner was somewhat impeded by the alcohol, but by supporting each other, stability was increased and pleasurable physical contact was achieved.

The date ended at some unknown time after more research into alcohol enhanced kissing. Alcohol induced fatigue was likely cause of cessation of activities. Morning after shock was mitigated after inspection of the premises (Pinkie Pie’s room) indicated a high probability that no unintended actions occurred.

Pinkie Pie’s behavior during our time together shows a definite variation from the norm, further study on both circumstances is indicated. I am now preparing plans to invite Pinkie Pie on a date for further study into all fields previously mentioned.

Sparkle’s Log: January 25th
Current Status: Giddy

Date with Pinkie Pie went resoundingly well. Alcohol consumption was minimal, but excitement and fun remained high. Spent the night at the library while Spike stayed with Rarity. Details are classified.

Sparkle’s Log: February 14th
Current Status: Amorous

Logging of events has been neglected lately, but I find I must make a final entry. Research of Pinkie Pie has been reclassified as a long term and ongoing project for personal reference only. Leaving now to spend Hearts and Hooves day with my sweetheart at Sugar Cube Corner baking scientifically delicious treats for all the lucky ponies to enjoy. Will likely be spending the night there as well.

An Apology (RariLight - Sex Tag)

“Are you sure I’m not imposing, darling? You do seem a touch on edge.” Rarity looked up from the book she was perusing. Beside her, Twilight’s eyes darted back and forth between half a dozen books all suspended in her lavender aura. Rarity supposed it was possible her friend was still gleaning information in this manner, but the errant twitching of Twilight’s wings and hind hooves made her suspect otherwise.

“No, no, I’m fine! You need more illusion spells, we’ll find you more illusion spells.” Twilight’s voice had a manic edge to it, and not for the first time since she and Rarity sat down to research tonight. In fact, this was the third time and Twilight sounded more agitated than ever. Rarity was beginning to be quite worried.

“Perhaps it would be better if I just borrowed these books and looked them over at the boutique.” Rarity said cautiously, trying desperately to keep her face and tone friendly.

“No, no, you don’t have to go! Two sets of eyes will get things done quicker, right?” Twilight’s tail ticked sporadically as she stood up. “I’ll just be right back and then we can get back to work, okay? Don’t mind me, go ahead and finish looking over that book.”

Rarity winced as the bathroom door slammed shut. This was the third time in as many hours that Twilight had excused herself. Either she had the bladder of a squirrel, or she was trying to cover up some kind of illness. The fact that these excuses coincided with her manic fits seemed to indicate the latter. Either way, Rarity was quite concerned for her friend.

Her concerns were disturbingly justified in just a few minutes as a series of low moans emitted from the hallway. There was something odd about the moaning that Rarity couldn’t quite put her hoof on, but the voice was undoubtedly that of Twilight Sparkle.

Rushing to the bathroom door, Rarity felt her horn tingle. Some kind of spell was guarding the doorway, but it was miscast judging by the dull throb she felt just at the base, where horn met skull. She didn’t have the skill or breadth of knowledge to identify the exact spell, but she could tell it wasn’t dangerous. Rarity knocked and called softly to her friend.

The door swung open, but not by command of either pony. The slight tilt of the door jamb, the well oiled hinge and the small nudge of the knock were all very persuasive towards the door, but the latch, broken when the door slammed shut one too many times in one day, was the deciding factor.

Rarity was unwittingly treated to a sight which colored her cheeks a bright scarlet. Twilight Sparkle lay on her back on the bathroom floor, her body was propped up by her fully erect Alicorn wings, her eyes closed and mouth open in a long moan of ecstasy, and one lavender forehoof was wrapped tightly between her hind legs.

Twilight’s eyes fluttered open as she panted, coming down from her high. Something white and purple caught and held her unfocused gaze until she recognized Rarity and her pupils shrank to the barest of bare pinpricks.

“I’m sorry, Rarity. I’m so, so sorry.” Twilight babbled, her muzzle buried in her hooves, unable to meet her friend’s eyes again. Rarity made them some tea while Twilight had washed her hooves and tried to compose herself, but Twilight’s cup was so far untouched and she was almost incoherent.

“Sometimes when I study too hard, I just get so turned on, I can’t help it. That’s why I usually study alone, but you needed help and it doesn’t always happen, so I thought I might be okay. But I wasn’t and now you probably hate me.”

“Twilight, I don’t hate you. If I did, I wouldn’t still be here.” Rarity bit her lip in a short, silent debate with herself before continuing. “Nor am I a stranger to unexpected bursts of passion. There is a reason I do my most intense creating behind closed doors and it is not entirely to prevent espionage by rival designers.”

Rarity reached out a forehoof and gently touched it to Twilight’s, the same one which had been used most intimately by the Alicorn not long before. “So you see, there’s nothing to be sorry about, darling. I’m not offended.”

Twilight squeaked at the contact, shaking her head and pulling her forehoof away as if in pain.

“Something else is troubling you?”

Twilight just nodded.

“Darling, you can tell me in complete confidence, you know that. I’ll help in any way I can.” Rarity reached out again to resume the contact of their forehooves, Twilight’s trembled in her grasp.

The lavender mare took several long moments to respond, and when she did, she spoke into her hooves in a voice that would be envied by Fluttershy at her most timid.

Rarity lifted Twilight’s chin so that they looked eye to eye, Twilight’s eyes immediately darted to the side. “Twilight, there’s no need to be embarrassed any further, we are both grown mares here. Please speak plainly and tell me what is worrying you.”

Twilight gulped and spoke in an audible but shaky voice, her eyes clenched tight. “I was thinking about you when I did it.”

A multitude of thoughts passed through Rarity’s head. Her friend was admitting to finding her at least physically attractive. If there was an emotional connection as well, they might make something of the faux pas, but it would have to be about more than just her looks.

Rarity had found herself more and more attracted to Twilight’s demeanor as time went on and their friendship grew. She was a competent and capable leader when she needed to be, but she never seemed to lose her fillyish charm either. She could be worldly and wise one moment and then get excited over something incredibly silly right after. She was regal and splendid, but without that pomposity that had destroyed her fantasies when she had actually encountered nobility for real.

Rarity had toyed with the idea of approaching Twilight in the past, but had given up all hope when the young unicorn had earned her wings and was crowned a princess. She feared that her attempt at genuine romance would be seen as a shallow attempt to secure a royal title for herself, but if Twilight was genuinely interested and took the lead, that could hardly be called into question. There was also the matter of her own state of mind the last time she designed a dress for Twilight.

Rarity took both of Twilight’s forehooves in her own. “Twilight... do you think of me often in such circumstances?” Rarity thought of letting her voice quaver to ease some of the tension, but found she had no need for acting when the words did leave her lips.

Twilight nodded slowly. “You’re a beautiful pony Rarity.” Rarity’s ears flattened against her head, fearing that the attraction was only physical, but Twilight went on. “You’re a hard worker, generous, talented, driven to succeed, I admire you. You deserve so much more than me using you in my fantasies like that. I’m sor-” The last word was cut off by a pair of white lips pressed against her own.

“Rarity, I don’t understand...” Twilight blinked confusedly as the kiss broke, leaving both mares a bit winded.

“Then come, our research can wait, come sit with me and let me explain. After all, I said I would help you in any way I could.”

Author's Note

This short recycled an idea bookplayer posted (Warning, link goes to a NSFW thread) which I tried to turn into an AU aged up Sweetie Belle x Unicorn Twilight story. It didn't work out, but the inspiring post and basic premise fit my need here.

A Game (TwiJack)

“AJ, what the hay are you doing?”

Applejack started and then heaved a sigh, poking her head up above the tall grass she had been fairly well concealed in. At least she had been fairly well concealed from ponies who favored the ground, either by necessity or by choice. Ponies who favored the air were another matter entirely.

Her eyes followed something moving a short distance away and for the moment she ignored the pegasus staring daggers at the back of her head. Finally, she turned away from her quarry and looked up at Rainbow Dash.

“You’ve got the worst timing sometimes, ya wingy varmint.” Applejack matched the unamused glare being flung down at her with one of her own.

“That doesn’t answer my question, AJ.” Rainbow Dash folded her forelegs across her chest as she continued to hover and glare.

Applejack considered the situation for a moment, giving a glance back in the former direction of her quarry, no longer in sight. She turned back to Rainbow, giving her an appraising look. “Ya know what ‘stealth’ means?” she finally asked.

“What?” Rainbow’s wings nearly missed a beat. “Of course I do. What kind of question is that?”

“Ya want ta know what I’m up to, don’tcha? I’ll letcha tag along and see, if you can keep quiet an’ not give me away.” Applejack had her doubts, considering the aftermath of the Daring Do incident at the hospital, but she’d gotten so good at stalking her prey lately that a little extra challenge seemed worthwhile.

“Wouldn’t it just be easier to tell me?” Dash landed beside her friend, all enmity in her expression now replaced by puzzlement.

“Sure would.”

“But you’re not going to, are you?”

“Nope.” Applejack grinned.

Rainbow glared again, narrowing her eyes. Applejack’s grin grew steadily more smug in response this time. She mentally counted backwards from ten in her head. She’d barely reached one when Dash let out a groan.

“Alright, fine! I know how to be stealthy. Let’s just go already!”

“Good. Keep close and keep yer lips zipped. Ya need ta say somethin’, tap my shoulder an’ whisper in my ear.”

Applejack left the tall stand of grass near the park, Rainbow Dash following along behind. Her first objective was to relocate her quarry. A quick glance at the position of the sun confirmed that to do that, she needed to stake out the town hall. For the moment she trotted along openly, unconcerned about stealth. This would be the first time in quite a while that Applejack had failed to capture her prey so quickly, but the change would probably make an interesting surprise.

She surveyed the town square, looking for an appropriate hiding spot. On previous occasions, when the chase used to take her this long, Applejack had discovered a couple of preferred stakeout locations. However, this time she was having to think on the fly.

Not only would she need to conceal herself and another pony from her quarry, but she needed to conceal the exact identity of her quarry from Rainbow Dash for as long as possible. She wanted the extra challenge, and she knew that if Dash figured the game out too soon, the flighty mare would simply pack up and leave once her curiosity was sated.

Applejack checked the sun again; time was slipping away. She finally settled on a clump of bushes on the outskirts of the town square which didn’t directly face the town hall, but still granted them a wide view. As Rainbow settled in behind her, Applejack turned to face her companion, reinforcing the need for quiet by pressing a hoof to her lips. Dash nodded.

They managed to hide themselves just in time. When Applejack turned back around, her eyes followed the group just emerging from the town hall. Difficult as it was, she kept her head sweeping the square, homing in momentarily on different groups of ponies emerging from buildings or clustered around stalls. She could hear a soft rustle of feathers and fur behind her and feel Rainbow leaning in close, probably trying to figure out what she was looking at.

When the town hall group finally broke apart, Applejack’s eyes followed the two ponies heading away down the street. She noted the western direction of their departure with relief and hoped the two of them would be sticking together for a while. Not only would it give her a lead on the destination of her quarry, it would help keep Dash in the dark a little while longer; hopefully just long enough.

Applejack leaned back and whispered to Dash. “Follow me. We gotta go double quick.”

Racing past Rainbow Dash, Applejack galloped away from the town square at full speed, heading north. Rainbow soon followed after, powering herself through the air to catch up with her speeding friend, her signature rainbow trail left in her wake.

Applejack took a sharp turn west after a couple blocks, catching sight of Rainbow’s trail out of the corner of her eye. She clicked her tongue, but did not break stride. Her quarry would not be looking out for Dash, and as long as they got to the edge of town with enough time to spare, there wouldn’t be a trail to follow anyway.

Passing out of Ponyville proper, they crossed the stream on the edge of town, a short distance north of the bridge leading toward the Everfree Forest and some of the outlying properties. Turning south again, Applejack headed for a particular fork in the road where a large, somewhat overgrown screen of bushes, trees, and ferns stood.

Applejack quickly took up a spot deep in the undergrowth, signalling Dash to hide where there was more room in the foliage above. This would be her last chance to catch her prey and even if Dash was spotted, the distraction might still give her a moment to act.

She gently reached out a hoof, silently arranging some of the fern leaves in front of her so that they interwove each other and provided a more opaque screen. Bright orange fur did not camoflage well behind leafy greens. While her coat color did not do her any favors, she was comforted by the fact that her quarry was both unlikely to expect an ambush here, and therefore even more unlikely to give the stand of trees a second glance.

Her hoof stopped short and ever so slowly pulled back into an attack posture when she heard the sound of hoofbeats coming up the road. Applejack’s ears pricked, listening hard; there were two ponies coming. One was certainly the light, airy gait of a pegasus, while the other had a slightly heavier sound. The two ponies stopped near the road’s fork, but just out of Applejack’s line of sight.

“Thank you for helping straighten everything out with Mayor Mare and Mr. Comb.” The soft, wavering voice could only belong to Fluttershy. “Harry is usually much better behaved when he finishes hibernating, but I don’t think he had enough to eat last fall.”

“I’m glad I could help, Fluttershy.” There was the soft sound of fur against fur; a comforting nuzzle, Applejack assumed. “I was going to head over to Applejack’s place, unless you still want some company for a bit.”

“Oh, no. I’m alright now, thank you.” Fluttershy’s voice did sound stronger and more even. “I was really nervous before you showed up to help, but I’m feeling much better now. And I’m sure Applejack is waiting for you.”

After they exchanged goodbyes, Applejack could hear Fluttershy’s soft hoofbeats trail off in the direction of her cottage. Twilight seemed to stay put for the moment. She still couldn’t see the young alicorn, but there was no sound of hoofbeats, no rustle of feathery wings, and no flash of purple and twinkle of teleportation magic. Applejack’s ears remained on constant alert, and she tried desperately to keep her tail from twitching.

Suddenly. one hoofbeat. Two. Three. A flash of lavender through the green fronds, and almost instantly an orange and blond streak shot out and tackled the young princess into the soft grass on the far side of the road.

Applejack stood proudly over her catch, her emerald eyes smouldering. “Tag, Princess. You’re it.”

Twilight let out staccato giggles as she caught her breath, leaning up to plant a reward on her marefriend’s lips. “That was certainly a surprise. I thought you weren’t going to catch me today. I don’t usually last past lunch.”

Applejack inclined her head toward the tree she’d been hiding under. “I picked up a hitchhiker. Made things a bit more interestin’.”

“This is what I followed you around for?!” Rainbow Dash now hovered nearby, her eyes wide, mouth agape, and tongue lolling grotesquely out. “You two are so mushy sometimes. I’m outta here.”

Far from disgusted or outraged at Dash’s dismissal, they both grinned at each other, watching as the retreating mare continued to shoot glances at them over her shoulder.

Applejack pulled Twilight to her hooves and leaned against her as they walked the path back to Sweet Apple Acres.

“Same time next week, Twi?”

“Maybe.” Twilight grinned and nuzzled Applejack’s cheek. “Or maybe, I’ll surprise you instead.”

Applejack chuckled.

Author's Note

This chapter was pre-read by bookplayer and based on a comment by bats in response to this picture:

Be vewy vewy quiet, I'm hunting pwincesses!

A Morning (AppleShy)

If Applejack had to choose, really choose, she would choose mornings like this one. They didn’t happen too often, farm chores start early in the morning for a reason. Once the sun climbs high in the sky at noon, the day really starts to heat up, and working out in the hot sun like that can become dangerous very quickly.

The animals preferred to wake and be fed early as well, at least the daytime animals. During that same hot time of the day, they liked to find some cool place and rest. Applejack couldn’t blame them one bit. Whenever she could, she would find some task to do in the shade of the barn until the sun began to dip.

Still though, while she usually worked through the mornings, it was nice to be able to sit still in the quiet air and watch the sunrise once in a while. She had enjoyed doing so alone, but she enjoyed it even more now that she had a companion.

Fluttershy was able to make these mornings so much more special. She never had to ask or be asked, she just knew when Applejack wanted a break. All the previous day she would spend her time with all the animals on the farm, all the critters she cared for, and ask them very politely to sleep in the next morning. Even the roosters, who normally crowed at dawn without fail, would stay silent when Fluttershy asked.

Applejack had never been conscious of the need herself. Whenever she needed a break from routine, she wouldn’t know until she set hoof on the crest of the hill just outside the house and looked out over the east fields. She would just stop and sit, watching the sun as it rose, ignoring the crowing of roosters and chattering of farm animals. Eventually, she’d stand and stretch and take care of just the chores that were most important. The biggest difference now was that she would know sooner. The morning would come, Applejack would wake to silence just before dawn, and then she would know that a beautiful, restful morning waited for her.

On a morning like that, she had no need for coffee, no need for breakfast. She would trot, head high and proud straight out into the yard, to the crest of the hill, and look east. The chilly morning air would tickle her coat for a moment, but only a moment, then a soft yellow wing would cradle her back and a warm yellow coat would cuddle against her.

Neither of them would speak, there was no need, the touch of their coats, and the twining of their tails said more than could ever be communicated in words. They would sit still and watch the sunrise, only the soft sound of their breathing breaking the stillness of the morning air that Fluttershy made possible.

When the golden rays of Celestia’s sun began to warm their coats, they would turn their eyes from the overpowering brilliance and their lips would meet. Their cheeks would flush from the heat of the sun and they would turn to embrace each other fully, hooves wrapped around each other’s barrel, tails twisted together like a candy cane, and Fluttershy’s wings forming a cocoon around Applejack.

The embrace would leave them both breathless, panting heavily until they finally spoke to each other.

“Ah love you, Fluttershy.”

“I love you, Applejack.”

After the simple, but heartfelt exchange, they would stand and walk through the orchard, Applejack held in the light, feathery embrace of Fluttershy’s wing. They might talk, or sing, or just walk in silence and enjoy the rays of the sun striping the path from between tree trunks. Whatever they did, it was their morning.

Eventually, the morning would end and they would go their separate ways for much of the day. But they would spend the day that much more firmly nestled in each other’s heart.

Yes, if Applejack had to choose, really choose, what she loved best about Fluttershy, it was being able to spend mornings like this one with the mare she loved.

All of this passed through Applejack’s mind from the moment she awoke to the silence this morning, until her lips met with Fluttershy’s in their unspoken, but unchanging ritual. Applejack worried this morning, though. She had been trying to find the perfect moment and this seemed like it. She was ready, everything was prepared, but it would mean changing the ritual.

Most of her life was routine, farm work tended to be. Even this break from the routine of farm work had a routine of its own. Could she really risk breaking it, even for something this big?

Fluttershy seemed to sense Applejack’s worry somehow. Her wings cradled Applejack tighter than usual and as they broke their kiss, a yellow hoof reached up to stroke an orange cheek. Fluttershy’s beautiful blue-green eyes reflected even more love and kindness than usual, and Applejack smiled. She could do this.

Her lungs took in a deep breath of the cold morning air and her lips parted to speak and break the morning ritual.

“Will you marry me, Fluttershy?”

“I will, Applejack.”

Fluttershy steadied Applejack’s trembling hooves as she adorned her fiancée’s yellow ears with apple cutie mark earrings. They smiled and shared another breathless kiss, panting more heavily than usual when it finally broke.

“I love you, Applejack.”

“Ah love you, Fluttershy.”

Rather than stand, the two lovers curled up on the ground together, basking in the warm glow of Celestia’s sun. Fluttershy pressed against Applejack’s back, a wing draped over her barrel and head resting on her shoulder. There would be plenty of time for rituals later. Plenty of time for walks in the orchard, plenty of time for chores, for farm work and feeding animals. A lifetime.

They fell asleep again together in the warm glow of the morning sun, only the soft sound of their breathing breaking the stillness of the morning air. Eventually they would have to rise and eat, perhaps visit friends and share the news, but whatever they did, wherever they went, whoever they saw, whenever they chose, it was their day.

A Night (RariDash)

The moon held its silent vigil high in the sky over Ponyville. Aside from some owls and bats, the entire town lay asleep in their beds, except two ponies. Rarity stood just outside the doorway of the Carousel Boutique, sipping a mug of black coffee and enjoying the night sky during a short break from her work. Across the backdrop of stars, a muted rainbow contrail glinted in the moonlight as it painted itself in the wake of the only other pony who was not in bed. A smile curled Rarity’s lips as she called out.

“Good evening, Rainbow! I didn’t expect to see anypony else awake at this hour.”

The contrail looped around and headed for the doorstep. Rainbow Dash landed with the uncharacteristic quiet grace of a housecat.

“Hey, Rarity. I could say the same thing. Working on a big order or something?”

“Mmm, yes. Two dozen suits for a group of stallions performing at this year’s Canterlot Theater Trotty Awards ceremony. I’m just taking a short break before I finish the accessories and final tailoring.” Rarity sipped some more of her coffee, wincing slightly at the strong taste. “How about yourself, darling? What has Ponyville’s resident daredevil up and about at this hour?”

“Eh, nothing that exciting. I just napped too long this afternoon and I can’t get to sleep. Thought maybe a few laps in the air might wear me out.”

“Any luck?”

“Nah, I’ve been flying in circles for an hour, still wide awake.” Rainbow huffed.

Rarity sized up her friend, reviewed some measurements in her head, and let her gaze linger over Dash a little more just for fun. “I don’t suppose you’d like to lend me a hoof?”

“Uh, hello? Rarity, it’s me, Rainbow Dash. I don’t know the first thing about sewing.”

“Not that kind of help, darling. I was thinking more along the lines of modelling the outfits for me while I check the fit. You come close enough to the measurements I was given.”

“So, you want to bore me to sleep dressing me up in a bunch of girly fashions, then?” Dash quirked an eyebrow.

Rarity couldn’t suppress a chuckle. “Firstly, if you’ll recall, I’m working on clothing for a group of stallions, that hardly qualifies as girly. Secondly, I thought you were trying to get to sleep.”

Rainbow opened and closed her mouth a couple times in bewilderment before uttering a single “Oh.”

Rarity chuckled some more and finished her coffee before turning to canter inside. “Coming inside, Rainbow Dash? If so, do be a dear and close your mouth before any bats decide to take up residence, pretty please~”

Dash blushed, clamped her jaw shut and trotted inside. She huffed a little at Rarity’s insistence that she shower before playing the part of a living ponnequin, but did as she was told. While she was upstairs, Rarity lowered the lights to a more intimate level. Hardly practical for work, but she had her horn at her disposal as well as other intentions in mind.

Rainbow Dash stood still as Rarity dressed her in suit after suit, not feeling the least bit guilty at trying to be bored. Unfortunately, it wasn’t working quite the way she wanted. “Ugh. Rarity, this isn’t putting me to sleep, how many more do you have to do?”

“Just one more, darling. The rest are copies and I can use the completed suits as a pattern. I have some wine handy once we’re done here, that should help matters.”

Dash nodded and resigned herself to being outfitted once more. Rarity had been working quietly the entire time, but took her chance now that the pieces were all set on the board.

“You know, Dash, I’ve always said you are a beautiful mare, but I’m surprised to find you make quite a dashing stallion as well.”

“Huh?” About the level of eloquence one would expect of Rainbow Dash, but as Rarity so painfully learned after the Blueblood incident, poise and grace alone do not a healthy partnership make.

“Look in the mirror and see for yourself, darling.” Rarity’s horn lit up as she scooted a full length mirror over and bathed Dash in a magical spotlight.

“Yeah, I do look pretty cool, don’t I?” Dash posed for herself in the mirror, admiring her reflection.

“Yes, it must be the way you keep yourself in shape, that sleek, lean physique, muscular, but still trim. Very attractive.” Rarity allowed her hooves to roam down Dash’s barrel under the pretense of smoothing the suit, but her touch lingered long enough that even Dash could pick up on the innuendo.

“Uh, Rarity? Are you hitting on me?”

Rarity paused, considering her response. “Would it offend you if I was?”

“Well, no I guess not. Lots of ponies hit on me, I’m just that awesome, but I don’t get why somepony like you would be hitting on somepony like me.”

Rarity answered as she carefully undressed Dash, letting her hooves linger more than was strictly necessary. “Because, despite your sometimes brutish nature, you are far, far more tolerable and sociable than certain supposedly noble stallions who shall remain nameless.” Rarity’s tone turned a bit icy and Dash chuckled, but she reigned it in as she continued, still undressing Rainbow.

“You’re a driven, successful mare like myself. You strive for perfection in your aerial routines just as I do in my couture. You understand the desire to reach for your goals with your whole heart.” Rarity grinned as she finished undressing Dash, letting her hoof trail across the lightning cutie mark. “And you have a most attractive flank.”

Dash grinned over her shoulder. “Yeah, my flank is pretty popular.”

Rarity carefully folded the suit away and beckoned Rainbow over to the sofa, her horn glowing as she magicked over a bottle of wine and two glasses. “I believe I promised some wine to help you get to sleep.” Rarity grinned as she poured two glasses.

Dash took hers and drained half of it after a toast. “I think I’m okay with being awake a while longer.” Dash said as a predatory grin spread across her face. Rarity moved both wine glasses to a safe distance and thanked Celestia she was not the least bit tired.

An Illness (TwiShy)

As Twilight Sparkle trotted up the hill toward Fluttershy’s cottage, she could tell that something was definitely wrong. The young purple unicorn had her suspicions, as nopony had seen Fluttershy for several days now. That fact, in and of itself, was not without precedent, but missing her weekly spa outing with Rarity did raise a red flag. Now, the gaggle of concerned looking animals outside the small grass-topped cottage was a sure sign that not all was well.

“Fluttershy?!” The call was accompanied by the sharp rapping of forehoof on wood. “Are you in there? Everypony is worried about you!”

After the sound of some soft scuffling, the door swung open. Rather than the expected butter yellow pegasus, Twilight was met by a small white rabbit with a sour expression. This did not ease Twilight’s concerns.

“Hi, Angel. Is Fluttershy home?”

Angel Bunny nodded affirmatively, being unable to speak Equish. He looked grumpier than usual as he turned and scowled toward the staircase.

“Um, is something wrong with Fluttershy?”

Angel Bunny nodded again, glaring at the purple pony friend of his caretaker. He had expected her to show a little more initiative rather than trying to get answers out of a rabbit who couldn’t speak her language.

Twilight squeaked as Angel bounced behind her and roughly pushed her inside the cottage, slamming the door. The angry little rabbit hopped over to the staircase, pointing up and then pretending to cough into his paw.

“She’s sick? Well, why didn’t you say so?”

Angel smacked his face with a paw. Hadn’t he just done exactly that? After a few more shoves toward the stairs, Twilight finally took the hint and trotted up to see what was wrong for herself.

Another closed door met Twilight in the upstairs hallway. “Fluttershy?” She gently tapped a hoof against the wooden barrier. “Are you okay? Nopony’s see you for a few days now and Angel said you’re sick.”

“I’m perfectly fine, just resting.” Came the muffled reply. “No need to come in here, I’ll just go back to sleep now.”

Twilight buried her muzzle in a hoof. Even Applejack could fib better than that. Twilight’s horn lit up a deep purple that matched her eyes and an instant later, so did the door to Fluttershy’s room as it swung open.

“Fluttershy, I’m just here to help. If you’re sick we’ll-” Twilight’s voice cut out abruptly. Although she had tried to cover herself up with the bedspread, Twilight had gotten a glimpse of Fluttershy’s almost completely bare wings. Only a few feathers clung forlornly to the bumpy white skin and several were tinged red around the base.

“I didn’t w-want you to see me like t-this.” Fluttershy was sobbing. “I c-caught the f-feather flu. I l-look hideous.” She cringed away as Twilight approached the bed. She felt the mattress compress and a pair of forelegs hug her tightly. Her heart began to race, feeling the soft purple coat tickling her naked wings and Twilight’s warm breath tickling her ear.

“You’re not hideous, Fluttershy, you’re just ill.” Twilight stroked her mane to try and calm her down. “I’m... I’m your friend, I just want to help you get better.” Twilight wanted to say more, but limited as her social skills were, she knew this wasn’t the moment to push things.

As Fluttershy’s sobs ceased, Twilight let go, sitting back on her haunches. “What can I do to help? Do you need to go to the hospital?”

Fluttershy shook her head. “I don’t want to go outside. The bad part is over, except these blood feathers.” Fluttershy shivered. “Then I just have to regrow them all.” She shuddered again. ”But if you wanted to feed my birdies, that would be okay. I don’t want to make them sick.”

Twilight held Fluttershy’s wing gently in her magic aura while she inspected the remaining feathers. One was kinked at an odd angle and a thin trail of blood trickled across the exposed skin. “I’d better go get my first aid kit. Don’t go anywhere, okay?” Twilight gave Fluttershy a friendly nuzzle before hopping off the bed.

Fluttershy smiled back and then squinted her eyes and crinkled her nose at the sudden flash of purple light and sharp whiff of ozone. Several minutes later, it happened again, and Twilight returned. Not only did she bring the first aid kit, but also a book on pegasi, to judge by the cover, a full pair of saddlebags, and a sleeping bag.

“Twilight? What’s all that for?”

Twilight opened the copy of Pegasus Maladies and Afflictions and indicated the page on feather flu. “It says here that feather regrowth can take a week or more and that you’ll still be contagious for a few days... and that’s if it doesn’t relapse!” Her eyes bulged and her voice shot up an octave at that last. “I let Spike know that I’d be away for a while, I’m going to stay here and make sure you get better.”

Fluttershy blushed, a flame crackled in her heart at the thought of Twilight staying with her for several days, but her mind fought back, as it often did, telling her not to get her hopes up. “Oh, you don’t have to do that, Twilight. I’m sure I’ll be fine once I take care of the last of these feathers.” She held up a wing and winced as the bleeding feather caught against the bedspread and the trickle of blood became a stream.

Twilight scrambled back on the bed, floating the first aid kit along with her and opening it as she stretched out Fluttershy’s wing. “I don’t have to, but I want to make sure you’re okay. That’s... That’s what good friends do.” Twilight’s voice carried that same slight hesitation as she mopped up the blood and floated over the book to read the passage on blood feathers again.

“Okay, ready? This is going to hurt a little.” Fluttershy nodded, closing her eyes tight as Twilight grasped the feather in her teeth, holding the wing still with her hooves and magic. Fluttershy let out a squeaky yelp as the feather was pulled free and gauze applied to stem the blood flow.

A half hour later, her wings were taken care of, wounds all bandaged. Fluttershy herself was resting in bed while Twilight went out to feed the animals and try to reassure them, levitation came in handy to avoid spreading germs.

Fluttershy sat up when Twilight came back in to get her sleeping bag. “Go ahead and rest, I’m just going to go set up the couch.”

“Oh. Um...” Fluttershy blushed. “You could sleep in here if you wanted to, I wouldn’t mind the company.”

Twilight smiled and started unrolling the sleeping bag on the floor next to the bed.

“Twilight? Are you okay in there?” Fluttershy knocked on the door to Twilight’s bedroom, just off the main room of the Golden Oaks Library.

“I’m perfectly fine, just resting.” Came the muffled reply. “No need to come in here, I’ll just go back to sleep now.”

A memory sparked in Fluttershy’s brain at those words, she wasted no time opening the door and letting herself into Twilight’s bedroom.

“Don’t come up, honest I’m fine!” The voice from the loft was a bit panicky.

Fluttershy trotted up the stairs and saw exactly what she expected. Twilight was sitting on her bed in a pile of lavender feathers, her alicorn wings nearly bare.

“Ugh. I didn’t want you to see me like this.” She pouted. “I get brand new wings and the first thing I do is go and lose all my feathers.” She winced as a blood feather kinked and a trickle of red escaped. “Almost all of them. I probably look hideous.”

Fluttershy flew over and wrapped her forehooves around her marefriend, kissing her forehead. “You’re not hideous, Twilight, you’re just ill.” Fluttershy stroked her mane softly. “Twi-Twi, you know I’ll always love you, no matter how you look.”

Twilight rested her chin on Fluttershy’s shoulder. “I know. I love you too, Shy-Shy.”

Author's Note

I just love to borrow little ideas from everywhere. The symptoms of the feather flu here come from the Winningverse.

A Reunion (ApplePie)

The day was finally here. Sweet Apple Acres was decorated to the nines for the wedding reception. Everywhere you looked, apple pies floated by on blue and yellow balloons, just above everypony’s heads. The decorations were all Pinkie’s idea, of course.

Reds, oranges, yellows and greens interspersed with browns, greys, tans and blues as the two families mingled together. There was the occasional pegasus or unicorn and an alicorn or two, but by and large, the party consisted of earth ponies. Apples, oranges and a few other fruits and vegetables mingled with rocks, gems and tools on the multi-colored flanks.

Seated in rocking chairs under an awning were two elderly grandmothers, reuniting after many years. Their manes were now snow white, the colors long gone. Their coats were dulled, the youthful vibrance gone, but they still retained much of their original hues; sour apple green for the Apple family and raspberry red for the Pie clan.

“Been a long time, Ginger.” ‘Granny’ Berry Pie said in her quavery voice as she watched all the younger ponies talking, dancing and congratulating the newlyweds. “Haven’t seen ya since ya changed your name. Never could figure out why, you get tired of being Ginger Gold?”

“Naw. Did it on accounta Mac an’ this here apple on my flank.” Granny Smith née Ginger Gold slapped her backside with a hoof. “Most folks can’t tell one green apple from another, but it always was an embarrassment to the family that they named me for the wrong apple.

“When Mac came around an’ I finally became a grandmother, I took up my right name. Wasn’t until we lost Red an’ Clementine that I understood why...” Berry put a consoling hoof on her shoulder as Granny Smith bowed her head. “But that ain’t what today’s about.” She looked up and smiled, watching Pinkie Pie nuzzle against her granddaughter. “Today’s about our youngsters. Why, I remember seein’ the moment they fell in love.”

“No kidding. Well, don’t go hoggin’ all the juicy gossip now.” Berry Pie laughed.

“Hold yer horses an’ I’ll tell ya. It was right after the whole town started goin’ all topsy-turvy on accounta that little purple unicorn filly there.” Granny Smith pointed across the field toward Twilight Sparkle.

“That ain’t no unicorn, that there’s a pegasus.”

“Look closer. She’s got a horn, ain’t she? Anyway, she got them wings later on.” Granny Smith took a sip of cider to moisten her palette. “So anyway, the whole town’s in a right state, my AJ’s nowhere to be found, but yer Pinkie’s right here on the farm, sportin’ the ‘Acres apples on her flank, hair all straight, lookin sad as a month o’ Mondays, and makin’ a right mess o’ things. Can’t guess what ponies do on a rock farm, but it ain’t nothin’ like applebuckin’ or plowin’ fields or anythin’ that goes on ‘round here.

“Whole thing felt outta place an’ Mac was fixin’ ta step in, but ‘Magic is as Magic does’ as I always say, so I turns ta him and says ‘Don’t y’all fret none, young’un. Yer sister’ll be back any time now an’ set things ta rights.’

“Now, I started ta get a mite worried myself come next mornin’, trees all barren, crops spoiled, an’ the barn fixin’ ta fall over again. But it weren’t long afore my AJ showed up with all her little friends an’ magicked everythin’ right back ta normal. Fer some reason she was sportin’ three jewels on her flank. Pretty things, but ain’t prettier than her apples. Lucky thing she got ‘em back soon enough.

“I was watchin’ ‘em the whole time. Yer Pinkie’s tryin’ her best ta fix this gutter pipe that’s always fallin’ down an’ she ain’t havin’ no luck, but my AJ sets it right in place like she always does an’ gives that little filly this smile that’s just pure love an’ nothin’ else. Not sure AJ knew rightly herself yet, yer Pinkie was the one that came a courtin’ her a few days later, but I knew. Right from that there smile, I knew.” Granny Smith took another long draught of cider.

“Well, that’s a tale no doubt. An’ you say it was my Pinkie that came a courtin’?” Berry Pie whistled appreciatively.

“Yes, ma’am. Weren’t three days later, yer Pinkie shows up bright an’ early wantin’ to learn ta buck apple trees proper an’ them kids spent the whole day together out in the fields. Next I see ‘em is evenin’ time, bakin’ apple pies in the kitchen. Weren’t until they had a whole dozen that my AJ caught on.” Granny Smith smirked at her companion. “Sound familiar?”

Berry Pie snorted and laughed. “Least you caught on quicker, only took six apple berry tarts ta make my meanin’ clear.” The old mare watched the happy couple share a kiss for the camera. “Them kids is lucky. Frontier life ain’t built fer what they got. If’n we hadn’t needed stallions ta get our families goin’, things mighta been different.”

Granny Smith sighed wistfully. “Real lucky. That little purple wingicorn filly is powerful good with magic an’ I hear tell she’s whippin’ up a spell fer married mares. We may have little apple pies runnin’ around afore too long.”

“Might have some the old fashioned way too, take a gander at yer Mac.” Berry Pie pointed to where the big red stallion was busy turning a deeper shade of red, being nuzzled on both sides by Inkie and Blinkie Pie. “Reckon he’s stallion enough ta stand up ta twins? Ain't no separating those two.”

Granny smith barked with laughter. “Might be stallion enough in body, but Mac’s a gentle soul. Goes all ta pieces ‘round eager mares. Well, I wish him the best o’ luck.”

“Oooh, oooh, Applejack, you haven’t met my Granny Pie yet. Remember when we were in the Everfree forest with all those big scary trees and I went all ‘Nyeh! Whoo! Bleh!’ and started singing and laughing and everyone was like ‘Oh my gosh, this show’s gonna have songs!’? This is my Granny Pie who taught me to laugh and be happy and convinced me to move in with the Cakes!” Pinkie rambled off as she and Applejack approached their grandmothers.

“Calm down, sugarpie. Remember ta breathe.” AJ chuckled before she turned and curtsied to Berry Pie. “Pleased ta meetcha at long last. Gettin’ acquainted with my Granny Smith?”

“Just catchin’ up with an old friend. Yer Granny Smith an’ I’ve been friends ever since my family moved ta Ponyville.” Berry Pie smiled. “You take good care of my granddaughter now, excitable little filly she is, you’re gonna have yer hooves full.”

Applejack smiled, looking happily at a poofy expanse of curly pink mane as Pinkie’s attention had been grabbed by something else for the moment. “Don’t I know it? Still, I wouldn’t trade Pinkie fer all the bits in the world.”

“Oooh, oooh, Applejack! Come meet the sisters before they run off with Big Mac!” Pinkie was already trying to drag Applejack away toward her next target.

“Heh, sorry Granny—Grannies. Pinkie’s all worked up today, reckon she’ll calm down sooner or later.” Applejack apologized as she was dragged off.

“Reckon so young’un. Yer granny’ll keep me company just fine, you go have fun.” Berry waved and turned back to Granny Smith. “Reckon yer Applejack’s ‘bout the luckiest filly in all Equestria.”

“Nah, second luckiest, just after yer Pinkie Pie.” Granny Smith grinned back.

“Call it a draw?”

“Reckon so.”

Author's Note

If some of this seems a bit familiar, that's because it is. TheLastBrunnenG is an awesome writer and you should go read his stuff. I like the idea that Granny Pie and Granny Smith had a fling back in the early days of Ponyville. It's certainly a more creative spin than the homophobic Apple family cliche.

A Birth (RariJack - Sex Tag)

Rarity woke alone in Applejack’s bedroom at Sweet Apple Acres. A few birds were chirping outside, but most of the usual morning noises had ceased and noon was only about an hour away. The crisp smell of morning dew had been replaced by the fragrant smell of apple blossoms with an undertone of the usual barnyard musk of a working farm.

Rarity would have preferred to wake in the embrace of her lover, and indeed she did do so for a brief moment every day. Except when she took one of her rare days off, Applejack would wake with the cock crow at dawn, the lovers would share a kiss and a few words, and Rarity would roll over and fall back into sleep for several hours.

It was one of the dozens of little compromises that kept them both happy and kept their relationship from being too heated. They’d always managed to work past the arguments and the make up sex was always glorious, but so much shouting and heated debate was not healthy in the long run and was certainly not a good example for their younger sisters.

Rarity kept the Carousel Boutique as a place of business, but moved in with Applejack once she consented to and finished building a small addition to serve as Rarity’s new inspiration room. Applejack had her mornings to herself, while Rarity did most of her designing in the evenings. They attended each other’s events whenever feasible and learned not to grouse about it too much when it didn’t happen. This last was often a point of contention, but Rarity had been hard at work on a solution and was finally ready to show it off.

Rarity trotted downstairs, the curls of her mane and tail bouncing in her wake. To her delight, Applejack was in the kitchen today, preparing brunch. During applebuck season, Rarity was usually on her own for her morning meal, but in the spring Applejack usually had time to spend the morning with her marefriend. The rich aroma of eggs, toast and apple walnut salad perked Rarity’s spirits higher than they already were this morning.

She reared and hugged Applejack from the side, her chest pressed into her withers, burying her muzzle in the silky blonde mane. Had they been somewhere private, or had she less restraint, the sight of Applejack’s well muscled rump would have had her hugging the cowpony directly from behind as if mounting her, but it was simply not proper when any of the other family members could walk in at any time.

“Good morning, darling. And how is today treating my lovely rodeo star?” Rarity purred into an orange ear.

“Been a good mornin’,” Applejack answered, brushing her tail over Rarity’s flank, “but ain’t ya bein’ a mite presumptuous with that title?”

Rarity smirked behind Applejack’s head, knowing just what to say to steer the conversation. “If Rainbow Dash can be Twilight’s lovely Wonderbolt...” She pretended to pout.

“Yeah, but Twi actually goes to all of RD’s shows. Y’all only ever been to see me in Canterlot an’ Manehattan.” Applejack huffed, giving the eggs a flip.

Rarity grinned. “I could say something similar about my fashion shows, darling.”

Applejack’s muscles tensed up, a sign of annoyance Rarity knew all too well. “Didn’t we agree, no gripin’ about that?”

“We did.” Rarity moved closer so her breath was hot in Applejack’s ear. “Which is why I’ll forgive you since I brought it up.” She moved her muzzle closer still, baring her teeth to gently nibble and tug at Applejack’s ear in just the way the cowpony liked it.

A moan escaped Applejack’s lips, she’d risen to the bait and been trapped. “Not so rough, sugarcube...” Rarity teeth barely grazed Applejack’s ear in truth, but ear biting was something they usually only employed during their most heated intimacies.

“I thought you liked it rough?” Rarity flicked her tongue against the ear, eliciting a whimper of delight. “I thought so, but perhaps not here in the kitchen. Why don’t we go to the Boutique after breakfast? I have something to show you and then, if you like, we can be... rough.” Rarity punctuated the final word with one last nibble on Applejack’s ear before getting back to her own four hooves.

It may have been a touch manipulative, but Rarity was sure Applejack would accompany her that afternoon, and of course, she would make good on her promise no matter how the other business turned out.

“So that’s where mah laundry’s been disappearin’ ta.”

“Yes, I do apologize, darling. I know how much you value function over form so I borrowed a few items to serve as inspiration. I had hoped I could return them each time before they were missed.”

Applejack looked over the array of ponnequins, each one dressed in a unique outfit. Rarity’s design sense had been put to work, combining the utility of Applejack’s work clothing with her own style and inspiration. The faux leather and denim, the vests, chaps and ruffled skirts, the hats, bandanas and spurs, they all seemed too simple for the fashion world, too fancy for the rodeo circuit, or almost. Applejack couldn’t help thinking that it just might work.

“They look mighty good, sugarcube. I can tell ya put lots of hard work into them.”

“Thank you, darling. They’re all a little bit of you and a little bit of me. The birth of a new trend in fashion” Rarity smiled as she moved to Applejack’s side and nuzzled against her cheek. “Of course, that brings me to the second part of the idea.”

“What’d ya have in mind?” Applejack cocked an eyebrow.

“I would have thought that was obvious, my love. Though I suspect you’ve put the pieces together already, clever pony that you are.” Rarity said, smirking at Applejack. “I will necessarily have to attend the rodeo more often if I wish to sell these designs, and I had hoped that I could convince you to model them for my shows in return.”

Applejack blushed slightly. “Ah dunno, maybe. Ah ain’t exactly got a body like yer models.”

“Darling, these clothes weren’t made for those vapid, wispy little things. They were made for ponies like you. Handsome, healthy, well muscled...” Rarity breathed directly in Applejack’s ear as she traced a hoof across her back, coming to rest on her flank.

“An’ y’all don’t mind everypony lookin’ at mah flank, huh?” It was Applejack’s turn to smirk now.

Rarity was not to be daunted. “My love, they can look all they like because only I get to touch.” Her hoof traced a small circle around each apple on the orange flank while she nuzzled Applejack’s mane. “Shall I take that as a yes?”

“Mmmhmm...” Applejack’s answer came out as a long moan.

“I love you, darling. Neither the rodeo world, nor the fashion world will know what hit them.” Rarity reared and hugged Applejack again, directly from behind this time now that they had privacy. “Race you to the bedroom? I believe I promised you something rough.” Her teeth nipped at Applejack’s ear before she sauntered in front of her, flicking her tail.

“Yeehaw!”

Author's Note

This is the first (in written order anyway) to include a reference to another couple. May or may not be in continuity with the TwiDash prompt (whenever it shows up), I just liked the line.

Also: Continued in the RariJack Prompt tag game.