Our Last Night in the Eye of the Storm

That was a dream? What a pity. Relax, ignore it. This thing on my lap. She is hot, sweating poor dear. What a face, what an odd thing. Why then does that not deter me?

Try not to look. It will only hurt more. I know how I...Luna. Curse you for this. You had better hope I die tomorrow, today, whatever.

I wish I could stay here forever. She smells good. Her sweat smells good. But that could mean... No. No no no. Get out of here quick. What are you afraid of? Her.

*

Rarity stirred as she felt her head lowered gently to the floor of the cave. It was hard but warm. She could hear the lightened steps of the creature and opened her eyes. They protested and ached wanting to close tight again but glimpsing the figure looming away out of the cave she rubbed her eyes and forced herself awake. It was still dark and there was no sign of the moon or the stars, only prevailing pitch black.

She tried to stand and felt her muscles ache complacently as well. She had no idea her body was so drained from yesterdays endeavours. Ignoring their protests she forced herself up, the blanket sailing to the floor, and followed after the creature. As she stepped past the barrier twilight had created the cold gripped her and she felt a sudden shock. After a debate of whether or not to return to the nice warm cave her curiosity won and she continued after it.

The creature had gained some distance already and she found herself growing more nervous in the darkness of the night without any companions. She tried to think of other things and refused to allow the mysterious shapes and shadows around her to gain life. Finding Something to focus on, she dwelt on the dream she had been sadly awoken from, fighting to regain every delicious detail.

It was beautiful and simple, she was in a wonderful home with very high ceilings and strange designs she did not recognise, the room she was in was bathed in golden light by a beautiful chandelier the size of her house suspended from the ceiling. Its tear drop pieces glinting rainbows in the light of the numerous candles that burned there. There was only one window, towering above the room with white curtains draping on the sides. She could not see into the outside world, it was blurred and murky. The walls were beige-white decorated in the strangest paintings, she could not make out any details, they were a blurred wash of deep colours not clearly depicting anything. A nearby fire bathed her in warmth. It was a large fireplace that was taller than her, in front, a golden grate shielding embers as they splintered and crackled from the logs within. In the middle of the room was a bed, large with dark brown wooden framing and a deep red colour in the sheets that adorned it. Rising from the lower frame were more curtains directly above it, the same deep red. It felt strange that there were white petals strewn across the sheets, she felt slightly annoyed that there was such a mess and wondered if she had been eating in it earlier to leave so many crumbs.

As she passed a mirror she saw herself dressed in the most beautiful outfit she had ever seen, her eyes darted around to the patterns and stitch work, and embroidery, and lacing , and... Oh it was majestic, she thought. It was a purest white dress which reached over her flank and spread wide in a fan shape. From the edge of the fan was a pleated length of fabric covering her posterior side. It ended with intricate floral shapes sewn from fabric, velvet or silk she imagined from their sheen. The flowers were black but lined with a brilliant gold. The dress over her upper body was equally beautiful. The pleated design conforming to her figure flawlessly, caressing every part with no wrinkles in the fabric to be seen as it clung to her. There were no other designs aside a floral pattern around her neck, black again with lined gold. She would have never thought of such a design, unlike others she had seen this ones beauty came from its stitching and not its accessories or patterns.

Her eyes were drawn from the mirror by two large wooden doors splitting open slowly and a creature stepping in. It looked much like the creature she knew but this one was taller and wore magnificent armour, golden plating engraved in patterns she had never seen before, her eyes were drawn to its helm, which rose up in an arc to end just below the top in a flat plateau, the narrow slit to see though hiding its eyes.. The plumes from its head were white feathers that reached over behind it, falling in a shapely figure a few hooves above the floor, it reminded her of her own tail. She could see the cape it wore draped over one shoulder was pleated just as her dress was,  fastened with an embodied rope to a symbol whose details felt familiar. It was a shield with a pony across it, a pony with pronounced features, and a long face.

The creature approached her and removed its helm lowering itself to one knee. She could see it was the creature she knew, the scars of its life here in equestria no longer adorned its features, its hair was neatly trimmed enhancing the shape of its rounded head. She was taken aback by the contrast, there was no doubt it was the creature but she saw it in a new light for the first time.

“You summoned me M’lady?” The creatures voice was gentle and soothing, echoing around the large chamber. It did not sound like the one she knew, it was softer, more refined, lacking the deep growl the other one had.

She could hear herself speaking but could not remember the words. The creature before her stood up and stepped back looking shocked.

“Surely you jest M’lady! Such things are better left to suiters of noble blood!”

Its outrage was confusing to her but the element of mystery had drawn her into this story. She spoke, again not remembering the words. The creature bowed in half without a word, adorned its helm, and turned sharply heading towards the door. She could not control her bodies actions and leapt forward grabbing the torso and wrapping her hooves around it tight. She could actually feel the cold hard metal pressing against her muscles and fought the urge to pull away from embarrassment. She looked in the large mirror at herself holding on to the creature. It had stopped instantly. The lights were growing dimmer and she could see far above her the candles that burned brightly were extinguishing themselves, leaving only the fire to light the darkness. The creatures armour glinted in the glow, golden lights emanating from every contour on the plating.

The creature slowly turned and lowered itself to her, unfastening her hooves gently holding them out. She could not remember what it had said, but it had left her feeling both lifted and crestfallen. She pulled away an circled it, speaking more words she could not remember. They were of anger and the creature retreated as her fury flew at it. It stumbled backwards and she gasped as its bulk fell on the floor, head hitting the edge of the bed. The clang of the helmet was deafening and echoed across the room. She rushed to its side as it removed the helmet rubbing its ears and the back of its skull. She laughed a little but quickly held it back, covering her mouth with her hooves as the creature looked in her direction. Its eyes she found glinted more brilliantly that the armour it wore, a deep dark green almost sparkling as the fire danced around.

The creature burst out laughing and she let her hooves loose joining it. Its laugh sounded exactly like the one she knew. Hers suddenly subsided. There was an overwhelming urge to lean forward to the creature. She felt conflict within but threw it aside falling into the creatures chest, between the legs, against the hard plating. She had effectively pinned it against the foot of the bed. She closed her eyes and felt the creatures head try to recoil as her lips pressed firmly against its own. They were soft but very dry. It felt blissful to her, almost as if she was being filled inside, a great emptiness washed away and replaced by something warm and satisfying. She gently pulled away smiling and was deeply embarrassed by her impulse, cheeks burning. Upon seeing its face she was scared, the kiss had not had the effect on it as it did her. Its brow was lowered in anger and the mouth was gaping with shock. It pursed it lips and shut its eyes, facing away from her. She could feel a sadness rising in her, the filling feeling slowly shattering. A tear pushed its way out of the creatures eye and she slowly raised her hoof to wipe it, guilt building up inside. The creatures hand grabbed her hoof, she was instantly terrified. However, that terror quickly subsided as its other claw rested on her right cheek. It kept its eyes shut and pulled her sharply towards it. Her heart sang as their lips met again. She pressed firmly against it and felt the palm of its claw caress her cheek, gently stroking her features. The tears it shed were salted, running onto her. She too let her tears run, she knew they were tears of joy. In that moment the feeling in her was indescribable, it was one she had never felt in her whole life, it pushed everything else out of her and filled every part of her being. She never wanted it to leave, never wanted to feel anything else for the rest of her life. Their lips caressed each other lovingly, gentle and smooth, a dance of two souls entwined after what seemed like an eternity of waiting. Her hooves pressed against the hard chest plate, she let her weight fall in, her mind told her to stop, but she ignored it and let her soul control her actions. It felt completely right, that they should be together.

She drew slowly away, feeling feverishly warm. She was sweating from the fire but for once in her life it did not bother. Her hooves slowly reached up and fumbled around the the shoulders for the straps of the plating and side of the torso. The creature she sat between tried to help but she eased it to relax. Eventually she found them and pulled the front piece free exposing the body underneath, covered by a black mail shirt. The plating was very heavy, landing with a dull clunk in the carpet beside them. She pulled away to see the straps to undo on the midsection, it was an infernally complex suit. She felt the creature's claws place themselves on her shoulders, caressing her form softly. The claws made an attempt at pulling the dress straps to the side. It suddenly hesitated as she looked up, loosening its grip. She reached for its arms, wrapping hers around them. She looked in its eyes playfully and smiled, pulling down trying to encourage it. She felt her dress slide down over her shoulders and she moved her legs to let it fall past them and settle above her hips. She could sense a great warmth coming from there, an aching, longing. She could feel a great warmth on her stomach as well, nestled comfortably between the creatures legs she knew instantly what it was; he had a longing too.

Their dance continued with her trying to undo the straps and him having to help with the more poorly thought out components. To her and to him there was no rush, no fear of time, she hoped he wanted this to last forever, as she did. He wrapped his arms around her and raised himself to sit on the bed, in the same motion the dress now falling completely free. The covering was smooth caressing her flank as she lay beside him, the fire now had dimmed further and she thought to take advantage of what little light remained to them. She pushed him back to lay on the bed and worked on the belt that held its longing. The lights grew dimmer and his claws lowered themselves to her hooves, helping her unfasten that damned belt, to her annoyance this was becoming a tedious task to accomplish. As she reached to pull past yet another layer or mail she felt his claw under her chin, he pulled her gaze to meet his and drew her closer. It smiled and before the lights faded she felt its lips meet hers once more. She opened her eyes and the light had gone, only the moonlight poured through the large window illuminating his face sunken into the sheets. He was breathing deeply in a futile attempt to hide his anticipation, the minute trembling betraying his nerves. Pulling away from their embrace she settled on him resting her hips on his hard abdomen and caressed his exposed chest, the muscle under the fur rippling with every stroke. Swaying her hair back around her she basked in the moment and the warmth of his body. She could feel a rising heat under her flank and smiled at him. Then supporting herself on the knees of his bent legs, she leaned back.... Oh goodness Incarnate.

Rarity shook her head trying to ignore what happened after. The sensations so fresh in her mind, ecstasy and adrenaline flowing through the core. She halted as a disturbing thought passed. Why AM I following it? She realised she had no reason to follow this creature, it could protect itself to a greater extent and obviously did not want to be followed otherwise it would have brought at the least Crystal with it. She turned around to return to the cave but hesitated. Her thoughts lingered awhile on the dream again and she feared she was chasing something that would not happen. One excuse after the next cycled themselves in an endless debate to either return or continue. She could feel that strange emotion in her again when she thought about this creature and quickly established the danger of following.

The night sky remained dark and the trees around her swayed in the cruel freezing breeze. The air was fresh and she breathed deeply inhaling it to gain clarity over the cascading emotions. Despite the cold air she felt warm, hot and uncomfortable, she took notice of her heart and how it was beating hard in her chest. The breathing was slowing it but not stopping the booming sensation in her ears. She was perspiring slightly and shuddered at the thought of a lady sweating. Panic rose in her as she tried to formulate a plan to go back. In her dazed state she could not see the way through the engulfing darkness, her only option to push further and follow the creature. She was now employing more stealth so as to remain anonymous in the dark forest.

She arrived at an opening leading to a large field with beautiful trees twisting their branches high and wide over the landscape. The moon came out and she quickly ducked behind a trunk to remain hidden. She could now see the creature clearly moving about in a strange fashion, it seemed as though it was dancing with itself. She cautiously moved closer to get a better view of the creature. Its dancing was very bizarre, the movements elegant then erratic as it swerved artfully around. She deduced that this was an attempt to relax or to train. A quick lurch with its elbow upwards confirmed It was a fighting stance. She could only imagine the opponent it had envisioned with the bizarre stances and swerves. She caught herself wondering about the creatures form and elegance aside fighting. Such precision and control was a discipline that must have given it the strength that bewildered her. It grew more tired as the moves progressed into more strenuous gestures concluding the form by standing rigid and straight. She emerged from her hiding place and over to it. It was regaining its breath wiping sweat from its brow.

“You’ll only make yourself tired for tomorrow dear.”

The creature spun round surprised to see her. It looked immediately away before answering, performing some stretches on its arms and back, “It is not safe out here, we should return quickly.”

“I think we are safe for tonight.”

“There’s always a looming threat of danger M’la-” The creature stopped mid sentence and ceased its stretching. It quickly spun round and marched back to the trees.

“Whats wrong?”

“Oh nothing, let us head back.” As it walked away Rarity felt a burning question rise in her and before she could stop herself she spoke.

“You had that dream too, didn’t you?”

The creature halted as if a great shock had run through it. “It is not important, now can we please return to the cave.” Its evasiveness only confirmed what she suspected and she sat by the large oak feeling as though she should act or say something.

“Theres no shame in it.”

“Was this some prearranged garbage you had planned with Luna? I told her to give you all great dreams and leave me in peace. I was quite content to go another night of no dreams and carry about the tasks tomorrow without hesitation. Before that insanity it did not matter to me if tomorrow...” The creature trailed off unable to finish the sentence.

“If tomorrow...?”

“Miss Rarity I must insist we return where it is safer and we can discuss this fully.”

“You just want to get there so we have to remain quiet.” She had avoided enough obligations to know avoidance when she saw it. She only looked out at the horizon and the mighty fortress towering above the scape.

The creature sighed deeply, “Rarity,” it paused searching for its words and she waited patiently, “It was only a dream. This however is not.”

“What if it were?”

“For one thing I would look considerably better, or did you fail to notice that?” It was true, in the dream the creature embodied a fantasy rather than its form in the real world. She had a thought and wanted to ask it whether she looked different to it as well? “You on the other hand did not change.” She could feel a tightening in her stomach and began to tremble. It was not from the cold, she could not understand where the shivering was coming from. How did it know what I wanted to ask? The creature sat beside her under the large oak almost hitting its head on the lower hanging branches. It leaned against the trunk breathing deeply. She giggled at its clumsiness but felt her humour fading to sadness. Her hooves were planted firmly in front of her and she hung over them staring at the damage they had taken in the day. It was strange to her how little she cared about it.

“Perhaps if this was a dream it would be warmer. The weather here is awful, sinks to your bones it does.”

“That armour looked magnificent.”

“Thank you, your dress was also very elegant.”

“Then why did you take it off?”

“Umm... Thats not the direction I would go please.” The creature was falling over its own words stumbling to regain its composure. She had rattled it, and it gave her such satisfaction to see it loose the angry facade it wore.

“Do you really think we should talk about it?”

“What?”

“That dream?”

“As I said it is not important.

“Please answer one question honestly and I promise I wont speak another word lady’s honour.”

“What sort of question?”

“First I want your word you will listen to it and answer it honestly.”

“This is silly Miss Rarity, we should get some sleep.”

“Indulge me good knight,” she teased.

The creature sighed. “Fine.”

“No, the way you normally do please.”

“I give you my word to listen to your one question and answer honestly.”

“Good.” She looked away feeling nervous to ask. It was too late to retreat, nor did she want to,“Did you feel anything... emotionally?”

“Disturbed and creeped out,” it answered bluntly. Rarity felt her anger rise and she jumped on it pushing the creature back, pinning it to the oak tree trunk. She paused a moment feeling a sense of repetition, the dream was playing itself out again. She was angry it had lied to her, feigning such stoicism at her question.

“That is not true! I saw it when you looked at me, you felt something!”

“You are mistaken, I was honest.”

“It is unbecoming for you to lie!”

“I am not lying!”

“Then look me in the eyes and tell me again!” The creature hesitated but lifted her off it and settled her hooves on the ground. It looked her dead in the eyes.

“I felt nothing.”

Rarity giggled, “You are such a bad liar.” She returned to her seating place. She knew it was lying but could not see why it needed to do so. Perhaps her charms would convince it to be honest with her even one evening.She wanted to force it to speak but lacked the strength to find the words needed.

“It was no lie Miss Rarity, I truly did not feel anything.”

“Stop saying that.”

“The truth is not what you want to hear?”

“The lie is what I don’t want to hear.”

“IT WAS NOT LIE!”

“YES IT WAS AND YOU KNOW IT!” she stood up again and lowered her face to its eyes staring intensely at them. “Why lie?” The creature did not answer but looked away ignoring her, “Why lie?” she repeated again only to be met with cold silence. Her anger boiled in her and she felt it coursing, “WHY LIE!?” she screamed at the top of her voice and the creature turned sharply to her.

“WHY NOW!?” it roared and she stumbled back shocked. She had never heard it speak with such anger, its nostrils flared and eyes were widened. “Why now? Why not earlier, it is too late!” The creature gestured to to the sky, “Even in my own world I was perfectly content to be alone, satisfied with my existence and no need for company.  My shoes were my passion, the reason I dragged myself from sleep every tedious day. Then I land here and no matter what I do all you creatures ever want to do is interact and talk! I used to be happy before I came here, now I am a hunted animal in this insane world  where everypony is a qualified therapist, and for some cruel reason I have been dropped.”

Rarity was taken aback by this creatures outburst, she was aware it was uncomfortable in the forest but she had no idea it was so unhappy. Furthermore she still could not fathom why she cared this much, or wanted to care.

“Why lie?” she asked again the creature slammed its hand to the ground and she felt the shock pass under her, its fist forcing the earth beneath to quake. Strange lights descended from the branches and floated around them. There were a cluster of fireflies nesting in the mangled tree. Their beauty drew her gaze as she looked around in awe at the insects fluttering about her.

“Because I will die tomorrow!” It roared in defeat.

Her body went numb and stiff hearing this. This creature, who faced hordes of enemies, refused to break, was afraid to die?

“You don’t know that.”

“This again?! The odds are staggeringly against me Miss, only a fool would ignore them.”

“But you are a fool.”

“What... I ...” it stood up offended and its skull crashed in the branch above sending it collapsing under the force, scattering more fireflies. She sprang to her hooves and darted to it. It was rubbing its head wincing with pain, dazed and unable to stand. She sniggered trying to hold back the laughter, she found the closeness to the dream very funny, and that dazed clumsy look on its face. She managed to hold it back going to sit next to it rubbing the head, the area was hot but there was no smell of its blood.

“You are a fool because you think your alone in this. We will be right beside you, and we will all win.” She leaned closer and spoke softly to try and soothe its anger, “You  do not need to be afraid, you wont die.”

The creature looked perplexed at her words, not the effect she had in mind. “I am not afraid Miss Rarity... to die. I am at peace with the concept, more than is healthy I’m afraid.”

“Then what are you afraid of?”

She continued massaging the area that it hit is head. The creature looked away and rested its arms on its bent knees, holding its hands tightly. A long silence followed but she waited patiently, it was something she wanted to know more than any other question, she had seen this beast face down nightmares and horrors, heard of and witnessed stories of death defying exploits, she wanted to know what could cause it to fear anything after all it had been through. Its answer sounded out slowly, each word painfully stressed;

“I am afraid for you.”

“Now thats silly, I can handle myself, theres more to this elegance than a pretty face!” She swayed her mane back for emphasis.

“Please listen carefully.” The creatures grip tightened and it stared down between its arms, “If we let this insanity happen, and I die... I am afraid for you. I wont harm you.”

Her hoof fell from its head sagging on her side. At this moment her words failed her, all her prepared responses washed away leaving a blank space. This creature was not afraid for her safety, not to protect her, it did not want to hurt her by dying. She hated herself for it, but she could nor fault its reasoning. Loosing each other after.

The night drew in on them, colder. She shivered and could feel herself beginning to tear up. She could scarce believe a dream caused of much turbulence, a stupid dream. Why has luna done this? She began to hate herself for not saying something to bring comfort. Whatever she said this creature had some ridiculously over thought answer. Stubborn idiot. She was determined to show it there was nothing to fear. She decided since her mind couldn't convince it, she would do as the dream and feel her way through it. She was determined to bring peace to it, so it could be, as it would say, lucid for tomorrows battle. What ever time they had now was a gift and she wanted to use it as much as possible.

“You were alone?”

“I don’t want to discuss it.”

“We could always go back to the dream.”

“...I was alone and just made peace with that.”

“How can you make peace with being alone? Your work?” It was working, she could see its claws loosen.

“I found solace helping others walk properly again. They had a great gratitude and it was enough to send them on their way.”

“No family, loves?”

“My family was lost to me. I would rather not discuss that, please.” It lay back against the bark of the tree, closing its eyes. She leaned against its arm and let her weight fall into the soft hide. The smoothness of the clothes it wore caressing her cheek. “As far as lovers go...I had made peace with that as well.”

She shut her eyes and enjoyed the warmth that came off it. The muscles on the shoulder relaxed and the hide grew softer. Even to feel it here pressed up against her, this was fulfilling.“I find it hard to believe you never found somepony. Did you even try?”

“I’ll be honest, no point in lying now anyway.”

“You’d better believe it.”

“Ha! Once when my curiosity peaked I did lie with a companion for umm... bits is it?”

“Wait, you paid somepony to...lie with you?”

“it is common practice in our world. One of the major industries, but I digress. The experience was awful and yet satisfied that curiosity. The pressures of finding a companion melted away and I adopted the philosophy to stop trying.”

“Why?”

“Why how?”

“I mean why did you stop trying?”

“I guess it was not worth the effort. I wish I could have found some...pony who could share my life with me, but that is a very heavy decision to make, no longer being alone, having all your moments with a umm...pony who is always there.”

“Sounds like you were scared.”

“Probably!” it laughed, “Females on my world are tenfold more complex than my  mind can fathom.”

“So you are a male then?”

“Excuse me?”

Rarity pushed up embarrassed, “Its just...well, it was never confirmed. I mean with the dream and all I thought it was some weird coincidence. Sorry.”

“Oh, thats why you keep calling me ‘it’ instead of he or she.”

“You heard that?”

“My ears are sharp Miss.”

She relaxed leaning against him once more. “Just Rarity, miss sounds old and like a teacher with wrinkles and glasses with a big mole.”

“Back on topic Rarity. Females in my world choose to explore and have as much, lets call it fun, as possible before settling down with a male.”

“We have plenty of ponies like that here. Surely not all of them were like that.”

“Maybe not, I suppose I can't judge so broadly, after all I never went out to gatherings with my piers unless it was a formal event. More organisation and order, and less alcohol.”

“You are boring.”

“And thats why I’m alone!” it laughed.

She sat contently with him watching the lights continue to dance over them. The small fireflies weaved and bobbed gently without a sound as they flew around. She found herself feeling less upset for the creatures outburst and guilty at having caused it. It had to be done, she told herself.

“I couldn’t imagine not trying. To live my whole life without a special somepony...”

“It is surprisingly peaceful.”

“You do feel lonely though.”

“Anything can be overcome with the right distractions.”

“So, I have to know, where did you learn to fight?”

“Again?”

“I never got a straight answer from you that night.”

“Alright. Self taught.”

“I don’t believe you.”

“Its true, the form of fighting does not have a specific name. It is entirely learned by watching others and playing around to see what is more comfortable. I like to think of it as preparing the body but leaving the mind free to control your actions.”

Rarity yawned, she could feel the exhaustion falling on her. “Sorry, please continue.”

“Well I don’t want to bore you.”

“No,” she laughed, “Please tell me more”

“Actually I would like to know more about you.”

“Moi?” she teased, “There is nothing to know.”

“Alright, let us see. You know about my intimate excursions, tell me some of yours, surely somepony as flirtatious as you has had her share of nights.”

Rarity opened her eyes and saw he was looking at her, very relaxed and calm. “I resent that, do not paint me as some of those exploring females of yours.”

“Sorry, I meant no-” she knocked him on the head for emphasis and smiled. He rubbed the spot but was smiling as well.

“I have explored a little,” she admitted, “It is hard getting to the intimate parts when you just want to scream and run away. Most stallions here are difficult. There have been moments when I really believed I found somepony who would be there forever.”

“So what happened?”

“He chose his career over me, to be more accurate I pushed him to it. A royal guard was not a position a pony turns down. Never saw him again.”

“I am worried to ask but what was his name?”

“Sir Lancer.”

The creature laughed, “What a name!”

“What’s wrong with it?” she asked offended.

“Think about it, lancer...as a verb. I bet he was great during those intimate moments of yours!”

She hit him on the shoulder hard, “Thats not funny.”

“Then why are you smiling?”

“Maybe a little bit.”

“A little bit what? The funny or the lancer?”

“You figure it out.”

He lifted his arm and she eased off, bringing it around her and wrapping it tightly. She lay her head on his chest now, the hide was just as soft and she could feel its heart beating. The arm was warm and held back the cold night. She could feel his claw running her hair through the digits, stroking it gently.

“Sorry it didn’t work out.”

“I’m not. As life goes on we grow apart or together, faces change. If I had gone with him I never would have met all my friends, or you.”

“Set the bar really high there.”

“Oh stop it.”

“You truly are a wise one Rarity.”

“Thank you. You are a teddy bear.” She giggled as she felt the creature shaking from its laughter.”

“So how did you come to be an element of harmony?

“Its a long story and I want to use our time better.”

“So be brief.”

“Hmm. Well we have always been BPFFs but we never knew it. One day Luna appeared as her evil self, Nightmare Moon, and brought eternal night. We accompanied Twilight on a journey to the elements themselves in an old ruin, I lost my tail but it grew back. Nightmare Moon tried to stop us but Twilight's magic and our spirits of friendship defeated her using the elements.”

“I’ve heard of the power of love but friendship?”

“It is powerful. I don’t think I could imagine things without my friends. They will always be there for me and I can really count on them to help if it is needed.”

The moonlight faded as it ducked behind another cloud.

“Very pure. Beautiful. It must be nice to have that security.”

“It is wonderful. You could have that security too you know.”

“And all I need to do is risk life and limb for a cause I don’t believe in.”

“Simple isn’t it.”

He chortled and she felt his arm pull her closer in a tighter embrace. She closed her eyes ready to sleep now, if she could not be with him then she would be there with him, until the dawn, “Rarity.”

“Mmm?”

“No matter what transpires tomorrow, I will always be grateful to have met such a charming lady. You are so wise, so wonderful. I do not want to hurt you but I must say this; all that has happened, every agonised step, it was worth it just to meet you.” She pressed her face more firmly into his chest. She felt embarrassed for revealing so much about herself to him. Some details more intimate than she would have admitted even to her friends. She could feel that emotion again, the one from the dream filling her every fibre energising her being. She was thinking about it, the intimacy and she felt herself becoming hotter. His heartbeat had quickened and she could sense warmth rising from him. In the very least they could share something beautiful. She pushed herself up, drawing closer to his face, closing her eyes as she drew nearer. To her surprise he met her, bringing himself closer in an embrace. She felt his arms close around her as their lips caressed, a wonderful sense of fulfilment melting away the time and space around them leaving them the only two in all existence. She pulled away and stood up moving between his legs.

“I want your word?”

“Beg your pardon?”

“I want your word I will see you, the day after tomorrow.”

“I cannot promise that.”

“Then give me your word you will try.”

“I do.”

“No.”

“...I give you my word that no matter the fight, I will stay standing until the blood stops flowing in my veins, beyond my legs no longer able to carry me, beyond my vision fading to darkness. I will try to see you on the day after tomorrow.”

“Now who’s the thespian?” They shared a laugh and she leaned in but he stopped her holding the sides and sighed.

“Rarity, we are very different. This is not normal, even if my word holds true...how long can this last?”

She lowered herself and placed her hoof over his heart, looking into his tired eyes as they glinted under the hues of the floating lights. She could feel tears welling up in her.

“As long as you want it to.”

His claw passed over her face, the back of it wiping the tears away. It cupped her chin and drew closer. They embraced passionately holding tightly as if they would be torn apart. Her eyes closed and she could feel his lips caress hers, tasting her. They drew over smoothly pulling her closer. She fell into him and he supported her weight. They leaned against the tree as their contours rested into each others. She let herself go to allow her tongue to taste him, caress the teeth and sides. They were not as sharp as she had thought, he tasted sweet from the fruits he had, slightly salty but she liked that. She felt his tongue meet hers reluctantly, he was very shy, they met and stroked each other, the scent and flavour driving her deeper and him to press more firmly against hers. `she cared not for the saliva. The fireflies danced around, lighting fragments of features. She felt warmth on her belly once more, the heat rising up. She brought her hoof down to rest where the heat was. He shifted but she kept her hoof steady, rested on his longing. She was unsure what to do next, worried about taking this next step. It always took a moment to get used to, indeed she had not performed such a service in a long time, all males seemed to enjoy this though. She licked her lips and slowly edged lower. His other claw drew up as he grasped both sides of her face.

She slowly opened her eyes as he pulled her away, her mouth still hanging open from their feverish embrace. He had a smile, the biggest one she had ever seen him wear. She giggled, he had dimples. The scarring across only added charm and gave rise to her own longing, the heroes she read in her novels, the soldier off to war for the last time. This was greater to her than any book, but she wondered why he pulled her away.

“What's wrong?”

He did not move but held her steady, gazing at her, pushing her hair behind her ears exposing her face. She saw his eyes glint in the light of the fireflies as they flowed between them. They were tired, soft.

“How would that bring you pleasure?”

“I-”

“Let me share with you something so beautiful,” his claw closed her mouth and guided her up onto him. She pressed her body against his, “Do you feel that?” She wanted to answer but it failed. She could feel it, as he had told her the core of her body, the spirit was there, it felt like crying, “Rarity the physical is so easy, but what I feel is the spiritual. I have known for a while how much it pains me to not have you close. I don’t want you to do something so mundane and pedestrian. That is not the way to share our spirit.”

“Then what do you want?”

“I want your face right here. Let me touch, let me taste the dream, a dream as lovely as you.”

Her vision shook hearing these words and she threw her hooves around his neck, pulling her whole body to his, their contours gliding across over his belly. Tears welled up again, she let them fall, that feeling of being complete, of being filled.

They closed their eyes and allowed themselves to flow freely. She reached down and pulled his leggings open, her own design easily parting the fabrics as he had sketched. She placed her hooves on his shoulders and raised herself above him. He shuffled forwards under her allowing him to lean back further against the tree. She could feel the warmth pass under her own which made her longing grow stronger, overpowering her, empowering her. She reached under and fumbled trying to pull the second layer free. She felt his claw rest on her leg. She drew away and he reached under. She gave a short squeal as the hair on his arm brushed past between her thighs. He easily pulled the layer away. She felt pressure building under her, waiting to be released.

“It’s not umm...barbed...or anything right?”

“Not at all, I do not want to hurt you. If you feel like stopping at any point-”

“No...I mean...”

“I was scared too Rarity, but having you here, with me. I am not anymore.”

She felt all her tension melt away “Neither am I.”

He lowered his legs but kept them bent for her to support herself on. She leaned back...oh by the brightest twinkle on the largest diamond.

She breathed deeply as his longing entered, parting hers. She shut her eyes and moaned with pleasure as it drew deeper in, the heat sliding against hers. In her being the feeling grew stronger, more intense, she was overcome and no longer had control of her body, leaning further back she felt its limit reach. Placing her front hooves on his knees she pushed herself up, drawing it outwards, biting her lower lip feeling it caress the sides, leaning her head back letting her mane hang loose. He placed his claws on the sides of her waist, further supporting her. He made no action to direct or guide, merely allowed her to lead, to find their rhythm. Her tail swayed in motion with her as she moved gracefully along, brushing on his lower legs, gliding along his heat within hers. As she continued to push harder she looked down to see he was leaning his head back too, eyes closed and breathing sharp and deep. She smiled keeping her pace smooth and steady, she did not want to move too fast, for him or her to peak too soon. She wanted it to last as long as possible. She groaned and tightened her muscles as the pressure built up inside her, rising, wanting to pour over. His claws squeezed tight and with a groan she felt his warmth rushing into hers a twitch resonating from his longing, growing softer. She suddenly found herself feeling irresponsible for not using anything to protect herself, was this a legitimate concern with two bodies that differed so greatly? At that point she couldn't care, thinking was not something to do now, feeling would guide her, and her feeling was good. She slowed against her will as he lay under her regaining breath. She could actually feel his heart beat through his stomach on her inner thighs, shaking their bodies with each repetition. He could not look to her and she was worried she was losing his enthusiasm, that their moment had been so brief.

She smiled and leaned forward rubbing his chest, the soft hide and hardened muscle stroking the lines of her hooves. She wanted to say something to let him know it was alright, she could wait until he got his second wind before trying again. Before the words could find her he sat up, supporting her back with his arms allowing her to slide lower to rest on the soft ground. She felt as though his thirst was quenched, he was satisfied with what she had done and was ready to rest. She felt like begging for it to continue, now she lay it his arms with this creature towering over her, smiling as though it had performed well. The creature had his fill and was ending their time. How quickly it changed as she felt him kiss her tenderly on the neck, then her shoulders. Her enthusiasm returned as he leaned over to kiss her chest. She surrendered to whatever he was doing, it made her feel alive more than she had felt in a what seemed like an eternity. He kissed her again briefly on the lips, as he drew away she still tried to caress, her lips reluctantly retreating. She could smell his earthy musk, it was deep and full, pleasing to the senses as it swirled in her mind and inflated her chest. She did not care if she sweated, their smells mixed and joined dancing about her nostrils. He massaged her back with his claws, the tips digging into her muscles, not too roughly washing them over with a sensation relief. She could feel his forearms pressing against her as he pivoted forwards lowering her to the ground to lay on her back, the grass tickling her. She looked up at his face lit by the yellow of the fireflies contrasted against the night sky, clouded and dark. She could feel her mouth hanging open inviting him in to another embrace, instead  she felt a shiver as he slid his claws out and placed one on her abdomen. It was a very sensitive place, low and close to her most intimate one. He raised himself and towered over her, again kissing her shoulders, his tongue caressing the coat and stroking her shoe thoroughly. The sensation felt marvellous as it drew lower. Her chest, then stomach, lower thigh, upper thigh. She was curious to see where it would go next, tasting every part of her, sampling each area like a connoisseur with fine wine. Every touch was electric. Her longing grew stronger and she felt it building again, the pressure growing stronger. His claws caressed her abdomen in circles, running over the sides, down the thigh and just past her intimate areas. She groaned as the pressure grew wanting him to enter and fill her once more. She never knew this longing before, the intensity was driving her wild.

He saw her looking at him, with a pained expression of desire as she bit the tip of her hoof for some outlet. Her mouth was salivating as though she had seen the most delicious fruit before her. He moved over her now, minding the tail and placing his arms on either side, letting his bulk rest on his elbows. He nestled his forehead to hers and her horn began to glow. A sharp shock found its way to him and he jerked back with the shock. Her magic was difficult to control when her passions were so inflamed. She looked up apologetically but before she could speak, he slid his forearms behind her hooves and ran them slowly up behind her shoulders, his bulk eclipsing her. The claws came from behind and wrapped round the shoulders. She felt herself being drawn to him, the tail tucked to the side, her hind legs brought lower to rest on his upper thighs, the muscle was tense and hard as it lifted them. Then she was raised slowly upwards to his chest. His strength effortlessly taking her to rest facing him, her head higher than his. She draped her forelegs over his shoulders, the flexed muscle underneath the hide pressing firmly out against them. Another spark shot out and caught it on the ear, to her surprise it laughed at the sensation.

“Sorry. It’s difficult to control when we...umm...”

“Let it free, don’t hold back.”

She kissed his forehead, another jolt passing. As she slowly released her tension she felt more relaxed, the sparks growing more frequent all around the creature. She was entirely new to this experience, she had never had this reaction with a stallion. As the jolts connected with the creature he began to enjoy the sensation, to her surprise they were causing pleasure wherever they connected. She could feel her pressure again, the heat was thick in the air around them, the unfeeling cold did not touch them there was so much. He looked to her and lowered her body. She moaned when she felt it entering her again, it had regained itself and pushed deeper than before, she felt it sliding against the front and the sensation grew stronger. She clenched her forelegs around his shoulders and felt all the  muscle push out again as he lifted her upwards to slide along. Her breathing grew deeper and heavier as he slowly raised and lowered her. His grew heavier as he increased the speed, gently slowing at the top of each rise. She could feel its breath on her slide over at their rhythmic motions, hot and firm. The pressure before was building up again in her. She pulled herself closer  to him, pressing against him. Allowing herself to be free and let her body caress his. She motioned rhythmically to his grip, never tiring and always steady. The pressure was incredibly high and she felt herself taking control, moving faster and pushing harder, moaning loudly with each breath until she finally peaked. It felt like something in her burst, she wailed loudly, the sparks dancing all about them, her vision leapt and she could feel her abdomen muscles tighten and squeeze, her own warmth flowing free over his to the earth below. He lowered her to rest on his lap. She kissed him fully swept away by her release, tasting him now. They were locked in their embrace as time flowed around them with the fireflies. It was a beautiful experience, she had never known such intensity and passion. For her the night had only begun. Looking on his face she inexplicably knew he felt the same. His warmth did not flow out when hers did, his longing still had its energy. She raised a foreleg and stroked the hair on his face over the cheek. His only response a smile, and it was enough for her.

Their breathing slowed to a rest and she could see he wanted to say something to her, something that she wanted to say as well. Pursing her lips she put her hoof to his mouth, she didn’t want anything to be said now. They could feel it.

A wash of common sense began to douse her emotions and it came into perspective at what had just happened. She felt embarrassed, ashamed, alive, happy but confused. She had just performed a very sacred act with a beast totally dissimilar to her. It was confusing because she simply did not care. Even with her logic now taking over presenting an endless tide of pros and cons she looked inside to that which felt certain, that which felt they were meant to be here.

“Are you alright?” he gently asked. Her confusion had snuck its way to her face and he was now visibly concerned for her.

“I am. Isn’t that strange?”

“Very.”

“Are you alright?”

“That was new.”

“Sorry.”

“Don’t be. It was quite a spark.”

She was still looking down on him seated comfortably at his lap. As she felt the arms around her back, the tough hide under her hoof, his hot breath on her, the longing returned. It grew hotter and she could feel her intimate portions ache once more. For them then night was young, and she wanted it to last as long as possible.

*

Rarity was stirred from her sleep by the light of the sun as it bathed her in warmth pushing the cold night air away. She turned herself around and pulled the blanket high, pressing her face against the creatures chest. She was startled, to her it had been almost as a dream, as her senses returned she could remember the details of the night. It was a night of purity for her, no feelings of guilt or shame emerged, she found herself overjoyed it was no dream. Here she lay in his arms at first light after what was the greatest night in her life. Her feelings twisted as she thought about the day to come. More than anything she wanted the sun to go away, to return another time. Sadly it was impossible what she desired. Edging upward she kissed him and he woke abruptly.

“Sorry,” she whispered, “Go back to sleep.”

“That really happened?”

“Yes. Disappointed?”

“Very.” She saw by his grin he was teasing her, “Its looks like our night is up.”

She kissed him and edged closer closing her eyes and resting on his arm. “We can still enjoy the sunrise together.”

“It is not the sunrise that interests me.”

“Oh? And what does?”

She felt his lips on her nose. “You are beautiful.” She opened her eyes in surprise at this, nearly tearing at what she heard. She did not look at him but down to his chest. His claw reached up and stroked her mane, he had been very gentle during the night and it still maintained is volume and shape, although still ruffled in some areas.

She smelt her breath and the strong odour. She covered her mouth embarrassed and tried to turn away. As she did though the claw rested on her face to keep it looking to him. “Rarity, don’t be foolish. Now rest.”

As they basked in the warmth of the sunlight in under the tree it felt like something was ending. If it were a different time she would be have stayed here for hours. She did not want to let anything disturb her friends. For them to see or understand what had happened was something best left for after the day was concluded.

After the sun was in full bloom she could feel the creature stroke her head neatly passing behind her ear.

“We have to get cleaned up. The others will be awake by now.”

“Most of them,” she sighed, “You are right...”

“Before we go let me establish something, I will leave it up to your discretion what our friends know.”

“Good idea, you do have a big mouth.” The creature laughed and rose with her.

“Thank you miss Rarity. For everything.” He set about putting his outfit on, and reached to her taking the blanket away, she saw it was the top. “There is a stream nearby, perhaps it would be wise to refresh ourselves.”

“Do you feel tired?”

“It’s truly strange, I never felt more energised.”

*

Heading back to the cave after their cleanup, there was an aura of happiness around them. These bizarre twists and turns of fate brought them together in these so few hours.

“Well before we go, I would like to do one more thing.” She pulled on the outfit and brought his head closer kissing him firmly. It was still there, that feeling. She pulled back and smiled. She could see he still felt it too. And Rainbow Dash hovering a distance behind him looked in awe.

“MORNING RAINBOW!” she shouted quickly letting go. The creature tried to cove by pretending to secure his shoes but she could see the pegasus was not fooled.

“It’s...umm...time for breakfast so...hurry up.” She flew off without another word and Rarity had to knock the creature, who was laughing.

“This is not funny!” she said trying to hold back her own laughter.

“No,” the creature cleared its throat subduing it’s smile, “It’s not.”

“Let us hope she doesn’t say anything.”

“She had better not or I’ll bleach her mane!”

“Don’t worry, we’ll be honest if they do ask alright?”

“Honest?”

“Well we will omit some details obviously.”

“Obviously...”