Peppermint Swirlby Luminescent SkiesChaptersTitle page~Prolouge~~Chapter One, A Foal To Be Proud Of~~Chapter 1.5, First Flight~~Chapter Two, Laughter Among Family~Title pagePeppermint Swirl Princess of Cloudsdale By Luminescence ~Prolouge~~Prolouge~ One afternoon, nestled in the library in the heart of Canterlot Castle was Twilight Sparkle. “Pinkie?” The lavender colored mare called out. “Yes Twilight?” The pink mare called back from somewhere above her. The Canterlot Castle Library was full to the brim with books of every time and place imaginable. Twilight, spotting her friend Pinkie on one of the upper shelves, she moved closer. Using her new wings, as unsteady as they were, she flew up to where Pinkie was on the second floor. “Pinkie? I thought you did not like to read.” Twilight called out above her. “It's not always true. I like to read sometimes. I read books on parties all the time. Right now though, I am looking for a book you can read to me.” Pinkie replied cheerfully. Twilight’s head bobbed up and down as she watched the pink pony jump up and down like the silly pony she was as she tried to look for books. “I don't think you will find much of interest to in this section...” Twilight said as she followed the pink pony. “Why do you think that?” Pinkie said replying. “Well it's just,” she paused for a moment, “your in the history section. I have come to notice that I really am the only one that likes history.” Twilight said slightly hesitating. The pink pony came falling back down gracefully. “Don't be silly, silly. I have already found one. See right here.” She said giving the book to Twilight. Twilight took the book in her magic and levitated it to her face. Turning it over she began to read the summary out loud. “Long before our two regal princesses ruled the shy, alicorns in all their beauty were not a race of few. Many stood for power and grace and ruled the three pony tribes with dignity and honor. Follow this fine alicorn mare on her journey from her own birth to her foals birth and her death.” Twilight turned the book back over and read the books title out loud. “Peppermint Swirl, Princesses of cloudsdale.” “Oh, cool!” Pinkie shouted a tad bit too excitedly. The librarian on duty gave them both stern looks. “Oops sorry” Pinkie whispered. “Pinkie this book is pretty big are you sure you can sit through me reading the whole thing?” Twilight asked. “Aw, probably not, but read it any way. Please!” She said leaning into twilight with her eyes blinking pleadingly. “Alright, Alright, I will, settle down.” Twilight said laughing. They moved down from the second floor and into a spot that had a wonderful view of the land below just out side large glass doors to a rather large balcony. “Wow! These cushions are so big!” Pinkie said amazed. The Cushions there were almost three times the size of herself and were decorated with suns and moons like that of Celestia's and Luna’s cutie marks. “Well yeah Pinkie, this is where Princess Celestia and sometimes Princess Luna come to read. Often times when I was little she would bring me here and read to me.” Twilight replied fondly. “OK, cool! Pinkie said excited. The pink mare bounced and flopped down on the cushion with Luna’s cutie mark and snuggled into it. The sides raised above her head as the amount of fluff in the pillows became obvious. Twilight however gracefully settled down on Celestia's cushion momentarily daydreaming her memories of when it was Celestia in her spot and herself in Pinkie's. Twilight began to read aloud after opening the book to the dedication page. “In dedication to all the alicorns that gave their lives to save our ungrateful race, we honor your memory and salute your bravely. May each of you rest in peace.” underneath it gave the dates of Peppermints life. “Peppermint Swirl, Born 940 BCL, death 980 BCL.” “Twilight? What dose BCL mean?” Pinkie asked interjecting. “I bet it means before Celestia and Luna.” Twilight replied. Once again she went back to her reading but before she could get one word out Pinkie interjected again. “Twilight what time in history is this in again? And what does it mean by ungrateful race?” “It says here that this story took place in the times before Celestia and Luna brought the three tribes together. As for the ungrateful part I will have to ask Celestia about that because this book was written many centuries ago. Now Pinkie I know your excited but could you please keep the interjections to a minimum?” “Yes, Twilight” Pinkie replied. Twilight began to read aloud once more starting with chapter one. ~Chapter One, A Foal To Be Proud Of~~Chapter One~ ~A Foal To Be Proud Of~ One damp, but crisp and fairly cool morning in spring, Queen Amethyst of Cloudsdale lay in the Cloudsdale Royal Hospital. I am in labor! She thought to herself. “so why after all these long painful hours am I still with foal!” she wined loudly as another wave of pain washed over her senses. Her normally flowing mane was glued to her neck with sweat. She was breathing hard as each new wave of pain continued to wash over her. Doctor Strong Heart had began to coax her while she painfully waited for her cervix to dilate. “Breathe, Breathe, your doing really well.” Doctor Strong Heart said calmly. Sharp pulling and stretching pains tested her will to stay awake as the pain was beginning to be too much to bear. “AAH!” she screamed. ~gulp~ She swallowed hard in a failed attempt to push down her rising fear. “BREATHE, BREATHE MY FLANK!” she snapped at her doctor. Doctor Strong Heart took no offense to her sharp tone or the hateful look in her eyes. Reaching out her trembling hoof she managed to grab the sheet next to her. She squeezed it with all that she had. “AAH!” she screamed again. “Why is this taking so long. Please little foal just come out and meet the world I don't know how much longer I can last!” With one last hard wave of pain the doctor yelled, “PUSH!” She did as the doctor ordered and though the pain brought her to near fainting levels she was glad it was almost over. When the pain came to a slight annoying ache and she heard her foals cry she smiled. “Its a girl my lady, a small but fine princess indeed.” said a fairly new and young nurse. “My lady Queen this is my daughter Nurse Bright heart. You may know her sister as Miss Dawn Heart. ~P.~P.~S.~ “Twilight?” Pinkie interjected. “Yes Pinkie?” Twilight responded looking up from the book. “Do you think the doctor and the nurse are distant ancestors of Nurse Red heart?” “Well pinkie I personally don't know but maybe you could ask her when you see her again, don't the cakes foals have a check up coming up?” “Yeah they do, I think I will. Thanks.” ~P.~P.~S.~ “Yes, Dr. Strong Heart, I know her she was my mid wife for a time and I have asked her to care for my foal while I am unable to.” The queen replied. “That's wonderful I shall give her my congratulations as a father and a doctor.” Dr. Strong Heart replied. Nurse Bright Heart gave the foal to her mother. Queen Ariea smiled, “Welcome to the family little one.” “What will you name her?” Nurse Bright heart asked her cheeks warming with the delight of seeing mother and foal together for the first time. The queen looked down at her daughters features and said “I think I will name her Peppermint Swirl.” Yawning and smiling as the pain of her labor was finally dissipating she said, “I am tired I should like to sleep.” Nurse Bright heart took the foal from her mothers arms and laid her in the bed side bassinet. ~P.~P.~S.~ The king off in a village on the farthest edge of his kingdom caught wind of his newborns birth. His wings fluttered at his sides as the messenger flew away with notice of his coming return. “Please excuse me mayor I have an Important announcement to make then I must depart.” he said the excitement clearly present in his voice and eyes. “Yes your Majesty.” the mayor said and stepped aside to allow the large stallion room to speak. Raising his voice and coming to a stand still at his full height while displaying his royal grace, he addressed the crowd.“Citizens of Rain Puff village I would like to announce that the newest arrival of the royal family has been born as of yesterday morning.” A large applause erupted from the crowd as pegasi ponies young and old rejoiced the new foals birth. “I would also Like to say Farewell as I have yet to see my new foal and will be leaving immediately following this announcement. So farewell my dear subjects until next time.” He backed away and spread his large wings and with one well practiced flap of his wings he flew towards home. ~P.~P.~S.~ Meanwhile back at the hospital, the Queen lay asleep in her bed. Her sheets had been changed and she rested comfortably in the recovery room. Nurse Bright Heart came in to check on baby Peppermint when something about the tiny foals wings caught her by surprise. Careful not to gasp she covered her muzzle with her hoof and quietly backed out of the room. “Doctor Strong Heart!” Nurse Bright Heart called franticly. “Yes my child what is it?” he replied his age showing it self under his well groomed complexion. “Well... you see... um...” she began hesitantly. “spit it out child.” he said impatiently. “Peppermints wings are too small!” she said quickly. “Bright Heart my child if your going to live up to your cutie mark then you need to not be afraid of what your destiny en-tales and do not be afraid to ask if you do not understand something OK.” He said patting her on the head. “Yes sir.” she replied stepping out of the way so that he may go in and see for himself what she was talking about. ~P.~P.~S.~ Time had pasted and the king, tired as he was, finally arrived. He had for gotten how long of a flight it was from rain puff to cloudsdale. The sun rising in the sky when he had left was now beginning to set. His wings sore from the long flight lay limp and his side. Their feathers brushing the soft cloud surface as he slowly walked to the castle gates. Next time I take that flight on short notice I shall have a carriage awaiting me at the half way mark so that I am not so tired. He thought to himself. In keeping to his royal stature he held his head high and carefully folded his wings to his side. He allowed his hooves to carry himself to the hospital inside the castle walls. He came to a stop at a large pair of white doors. Pushing the doors open he stepped inside. Before he could say anything the mare at the counter said. “They are down the hall to the right and its the second door on the left.” “Thank you.” he replied swiftly fatigue still evident in his voice. He found his way to the room and quietly entered. As he slowly moved over to the bassinet he saw a tiny mint green foal with a chocolate brown mane that was a tangled mess of curls. Set upon her back were two very small wings. Upon her tiny head was set a little nub of a horn. He smiled feeling the energy return to him. The queen still asleep, awoke when she heard her husband quietly humming a sweet lullaby to his new born daughter. “~hum, hum, hum, hum~” Not wanting him to stop and not wanting to startle him she gently touched his flank. He turned his head slightly to acknowledge his wife's presence and whispered. “she's beautiful. What is her name?” “Well you know it would not have been possible with out you so don't go giving me all the credit now. Her name is Peppermint Swirl.” “Of course I wouldn't say that but look at her the only thing different between you and her is your coat colors and maybe her eyes but we won't know that for awhile.” laugh “yes that may be true but it seems to run in the family. I know you look just like your father. The only difference is that your mane is slightly darker and you keep a beard, he dose not.” Moments passed before they heard a sharp knock on the door. knock, knock The door creaked slowly, the age of the hospital showing. Creak Doctor Strong heart stepped in shutting the door gently behind him. creak, click “Your majesty's there is something I believe you should know about your daughter.” Both of them turned their attention to the doctor. “upon closer inspection of your daughters wings I have discovered that they are quite small. Smaller than average. In correspondence to her body frame at this point and for a good amount of time in her young years she will not be able to fly. However building her wing strength is crucial. For now until she is three months she will need extra calcium. I will prescribe a powder that you give to her in water once a day. When she has reached three months she will need to do daily exercises. I can not tell you if she will ever fly and I can not tell you when her growth spurts will be. All I can tell you is to hope.” The queen began to sob. sniff, sniff “our baby!” The king turned to comfort his wife when a thought occurred to him. “Doctor? I had a similar problem when I was young, I could not fly because my wings were to small. If I were to teach my daughter the same exercises your father prescribed to me would it help to build up her strength?” “If its the same ones I am thinking of then yes she should be able to fly the way you do and I recommend that you teach her directly not have a care taker or any one else teach her.” “Dear, its settled she will be OK under my wings and I know everything will be fine.” He said to his wife who was now trying to dry her face with the sheets of her bed. “One more thing, make sure a swift flying adult is with her at all times should she attempt to fly.” the doctor said before steeping out of the room. The door creaking shut behind him. Creak, click “We really must consider updating the hospital what with the number of ponies growing in our home city it will be greatly needed. I am sure this place could stand to have another two hundred rooms. What do you think dear?” “Yes I agree the extra funds we have set aside could go to many buildings here in the city.” “Then its settled I shall talk to the construction board.” ~P.~P.~S.~ “Few! Is this chapter over now? I need to bounce a bit and I kinda feel like some popcorn.” Pinkie asked jumping up. “It would seem so, I need a stretch and maybe a glass of water.” Twilight replied. “okie dokie lokie! See you in ten minuets!” Pinkie said bouncing off. ~Chapter 1.5, First Flight~~Chapter 1.5~ ~First Flight~ Twilight and pinkie had gathered back at their reading spot with popcorn and water in hoof. They settled down on the alicorn sized cushions. “nom, nom, nom” pinkie managed to say between hooffuls of extra buttery popcorn. “this sure is good, but not as good as Applejack’s apple butter popcorn that stuff is to die for. Hehe!” “hum,” Twilight said taking some for herself. “I shall like to judge that for my self.” … “mmmmm... this is good, but your right it can't compare to Applejack's.” Taking a sip of water twilight began to read aloud. ~P.~P.~S.~ A total of five years had pasted and Peppermint was growing into a strong, bright and energetic little filly. “Princess! You must not run in the halls you may trip and fall!” yelled her care taker, Dawn Heart. Dawn heart was a young brown and cream colored Pegasus mare. Her cutie mark showed that of a moon setting to make way for the sun. I swear I find myself chasing her more often than teaching her. Thought Dawn heart as she raced after Peppermint. “No! I don't want to study right now! I want to go see princesses Luna and Celestia.” Peppermint shouted back as she struggled to stay a reasonable distance from the mare. Her wings fluttered at her sides. Her flying had been improving and as she ran her back hooves would sometimes lift off the ground. At this time Princess Luna was only a year older and Princess Celestia was two years older than Peppermint. “Ow” Little Peppermint had bummed into her father, He was now sternly glaring at her. “Have we not told you before that running and shouting is no way to get something?” Peppermints head drooped. “Sorry, father.” Out of Breath, Dawn Heart slowly walked up behind them. The king gave her a quick nod to acknowledge her. Looking back down at his daughter he said, “Peppermint say your sorry.” Peppermint turned to Dawn heart and bowed her head. “I am most sorry for my actions. Can you forgive me?” “Accepted.” Dawn Heart replied panting. Peppermint Turned to her father expectantly. “Now Peppermint I want you to ask nicely if you can go see your fellow princesses.” “yes father.” Turning once again to face Dawn Heart she said, “Can we please go and visit Princess Luna and Princess Celestia in Uni-Uni-cor-n-ia.” The word Unicornia Stumbled out of the filly’s mouth. Dawn heart looked to the king for approval then nodded. Just moments later the crowed of three prepared for take off. “Peppermint child, get on my back.” Her father said lowering himself down so she could climb on. Once on he stood up and spread his large wings, flapped once and dived off the ledge with Dawn Heart following. As he did this Peppermint yelled, “Weeeeeeeeeeeeee!” It was a short flight between to two kingdoms. The closer they came the more excited Peppermint became. The little filly's wings would flutter at her side. “Peppermint dear calm down I don't want you falling” her father said wobbling from her movement. Just a few feet away from the balcony Where Luna and Celestia were waiting Peppermint got too excited and her little wings buzzed. Before anypony knew it she had jumped off her fathers head and was sailing unsteadily toward them. “Peppermint No!” Her father cried. It was too late peppermint was crashing head on into Celestia and Luna. Giggles filled each of their voices. “Did you see! Did you see! I flew! I really Flew!” Peppermint said excited. “Yes we saw, that was so cool!” Celestia and Luna said in unison. “Oh they saw, and so did I young lady, you nearly scared me half to death! Don't you ever do that again. At least not with out warning first.” Her father said rubbing her head. “Good job though kiddo.” Peppermint smiled really big. “Thank you daddy! Look what I can do.” she said facing her friends. She lowered her front hooves and raised her back. Her wings began to buzz, slowly her hind hooves then her front hooves lifted off the ground. One foot, then two feet, three feet then four. She had risen above their heads. When she looked down her wings froze and she fell to the ground. “Ow, Hehe that wasn't suppose to happen but cool huh! I am getting better every day!” she said getting up. “Yeah I bet with that spirit you'll be flying better than us in no time.” Celestia said cheering her on. Peppermint blushed. “Thanks guys! Lets go play.” The three fillies all blank Flanks set out to play. Today they would climb a tree in hopes their cutie marks would appear. ~P.~P.~S.~ “Hey Twilight, the three of them sound like the cutie mark crusaders. Funny huh!” Pinkie said Interjecting. “Yeah, They do don't they. Remind me to ask Celestia and Luna about that.” She continued to read. ~P.~P.~S.~ Five years had come and gone again and Peppermint and her friends had laughed and played the whole way. With Celestia's and Luna's Flanks no longer bare, The lets try to find our cutie marks game had ended and Peppermint waited patiently for hers to appear. “Princess Peppermint!” Her now older, but same care taker, called from outside the door. “yes?” The now older filly called with confidence and maturity. “Your mother would like to see you, she is in the hospital with your new siblings.” Little did she know today of all days would be the day that her flank would no longer be bare but it would bare the symbol of her destiny. ~Chapter Two, Laughter Among Family~~Chapter Two~ ~Laughter Among Family~ Peppermint walked down the hall, her hooves clicked and clacked on the cloud stone floor. Click, clack, click, clack. The doors of the palace hospital were in sight. Stopping at the doors she said to herself, from this point on when I see my new siblings I must be all I can be to show them that they are going to have the best big sister in the world! Opening the doors with a gold covered hoof, she entered. Greeting here with warm words the receptionist at the front desk. “Welcome Princess, I take it you would like to see your mother?” “Yes, I would. What room is she in?” “She is in room 279, that's in the new section, and Princess please be careful with that ice cream cone.” “I will, thank you.” Peppermint replied. In her magic, Floating beside her head, was a cone of her favorite Ice cream. It was Mint Chocolate Chip. She cantered down the hall. Her gold shoes clicked and clacked on the cloud stone floor. Click, clack, click, clack. Her surroundings were Plain white cloud walls. Each door was adorned with a medal plate that had a number on it. “275 … 276 … 277 … 278 … and here we are, 279.” She moved her hoof and gently opened the door. Her hooves clicked on the floor as she stepped inside. Looking around she saw her mother sleeping gingerly. Her mane full of sweat and exhaustion present. Are mares always this tired after having foals? She thought to herself. She cringed, directing her attention off her tired mother she focused on her new siblings. She stared into the crib. Laying inside were two cute foals. One a colt and the other a filly. The colt was blue in color and had a dark brown mane with light brown streaks. “Your coat looks like daddy's” she whispered smiling. The filly light purple in color and had a light pink mane. Both wings and horns adorned their bodies. “I am sure you two will grow into fine royals. I will be their to help you the whole way. I love you little siblings.” she said turning. As she turned to walk away the clicking of her gold shoes woke the two foals. They began to fuss. Not knowing what else to do Peppermint began to sing her lullaby. While singing she was startled by her father gently touching her flank. She had forgotten her ice cream was still in her magic and it fell to the floor. Still startled she stepped back onto it and slipped. The force of her body crushed the cone and it splattered all over her flank, tail, mane and muzzle. Her lullaby long forgotten all five ponies were now laughing. This made peppermint happy and it felt good to laugh and share the laughter. A bright flash on her flank interrupted their laughing and her father uncovered the source. “Well would you look at this! My daughter I believe your talent has been revealed.” Turning her still ice cream covered head she saw a small image of a ice cream cone with little brown swirls on her flank. Upon seeing this something in her mind clicked and a thought occurred to her. This is what I am meant to do! “My gift is laughter!” She announced happily. With no room to jump around she quickly excused herself. Stepping out into the hall she gave a silent, “yahoo!” ~Later that day~ Celestia and Luna were in a quite room playing a rather heated game of chess when a scroll bearing a mint green ribbon appeared in front of them. Curiosity over coming their senses, they quickly opened the letter and began to read. Dear Princesses Celestia and Luna, I Princess Peppermint Swirl cordially invite you to my Cuteceanera Party. The party will be held here in Cloudstale castle tomorrow afternoon when the sun is one mark passed its highest. As I am sure you have already found out my brother and sister have been born and you are welcome to visit them. Your dear Friend, Princess Peppermint Swirl Ps. I know this is Ironic since I am already fifteen. “She got her cutie mark!” they said in unison. “I wonder what it is?” Celestia said smiling. “I can't wait to see her!” boomed Luna in her royal voice. Excitement so evident. “Don't be so loud were not addressing a crowd.” Celestia said covering her ears from the intense noise. Early the next morning peppermint was bouncing around the ball room placing streamers of every color she could find. Balloons decorated every entrance and column. On a long banquet table there were drinks, snacks and a large cloud cake. With everything set up there was just one more thing she had to do. She had to attend to the large line of pegasi suitors that were lined up out side the court room. When news spread throughout the kingdom of her coming of age, stallions jumped at the opportunity to ask for her hoof. So many stallions lined the castle grounds that her father told them all to come back the next day. ~P.~P.~S.~ “No!, none of them are right. I want to fall in love not just take some random stallion off the street. Coming to impress me like this is just a waste of time!” Peppermint yelled to her father. “Darling you must choose somepony, you can't become a queen unless you make the step to finding a suitable partner to rule with you.” “well each and every one of those stallions had greed and bit signs written all over their faces. Their not asking me because they want to love me. They are asking me because they want the rich life that comes with being a royal.” “Like I said you have to choose somepony.” “I will father, I will it just takes time I only got my cutie mark yesterday.” Peppermint replied. “If I may interrupt?” her mother asked. “Yes mother?” peppermint said turning to face her. “Well darling, your father is right but as I recall when it came time for me to choose I made your father wait Three years before I answered his call for my hoof.” “Really?” Peppermint looked between them in disbelief. “In the mean time while you contemplate your decision I would like you to go and renew our food treaty we have with the earth kingdom.” “But why me? Can't you go like you always do?” “I will be unable to go dear, but somepony has to.” “But why me? I don't know if I can I mean I am just a princess and I never go anywhere with out you guys!” Peppermint started to panic. “This will be a good way for you to practice being a queen.” her mother said hugging her. “now I believe that your friends will be here shortly shall we all go down to greet them?” “yes.” ~P.~P.~S.~ Standing before the solar and lunar princesses was a rather tall and slim Peppermint. It had been awhile since they had seen her and she had grown quite nicely. “Hello Peppermint.” they said in unison. “Hello!” she replied cheerfully. “it really has been too long.” she said coming up to them. “Yes it has.” Celestia said smiling. “You both look amazing, you must tell me what you use in your manes.” “Actually you might find this ironic and a bit funny but we use peppermint oil” Luna said hesitantly. “ha! That is funny I should try that I have never seen manes so smooth.” The rest of the afternoon was lively, Celestia discovered her undeniable love for cloud cake and Peppermint and Luna chatted up a storm. They all danced to their hearts content.
~Prolouge~~Prolouge~ One afternoon, nestled in the library in the heart of Canterlot Castle was Twilight Sparkle. “Pinkie?” The lavender colored mare called out. “Yes Twilight?” The pink mare called back from somewhere above her. The Canterlot Castle Library was full to the brim with books of every time and place imaginable. Twilight, spotting her friend Pinkie on one of the upper shelves, she moved closer. Using her new wings, as unsteady as they were, she flew up to where Pinkie was on the second floor. “Pinkie? I thought you did not like to read.” Twilight called out above her. “It's not always true. I like to read sometimes. I read books on parties all the time. Right now though, I am looking for a book you can read to me.” Pinkie replied cheerfully. Twilight’s head bobbed up and down as she watched the pink pony jump up and down like the silly pony she was as she tried to look for books. “I don't think you will find much of interest to in this section...” Twilight said as she followed the pink pony. “Why do you think that?” Pinkie said replying. “Well it's just,” she paused for a moment, “your in the history section. I have come to notice that I really am the only one that likes history.” Twilight said slightly hesitating. The pink pony came falling back down gracefully. “Don't be silly, silly. I have already found one. See right here.” She said giving the book to Twilight. Twilight took the book in her magic and levitated it to her face. Turning it over she began to read the summary out loud. “Long before our two regal princesses ruled the shy, alicorns in all their beauty were not a race of few. Many stood for power and grace and ruled the three pony tribes with dignity and honor. Follow this fine alicorn mare on her journey from her own birth to her foals birth and her death.” Twilight turned the book back over and read the books title out loud. “Peppermint Swirl, Princesses of cloudsdale.” “Oh, cool!” Pinkie shouted a tad bit too excitedly. The librarian on duty gave them both stern looks. “Oops sorry” Pinkie whispered. “Pinkie this book is pretty big are you sure you can sit through me reading the whole thing?” Twilight asked. “Aw, probably not, but read it any way. Please!” She said leaning into twilight with her eyes blinking pleadingly. “Alright, Alright, I will, settle down.” Twilight said laughing. They moved down from the second floor and into a spot that had a wonderful view of the land below just out side large glass doors to a rather large balcony. “Wow! These cushions are so big!” Pinkie said amazed. The Cushions there were almost three times the size of herself and were decorated with suns and moons like that of Celestia's and Luna’s cutie marks. “Well yeah Pinkie, this is where Princess Celestia and sometimes Princess Luna come to read. Often times when I was little she would bring me here and read to me.” Twilight replied fondly. “OK, cool! Pinkie said excited. The pink mare bounced and flopped down on the cushion with Luna’s cutie mark and snuggled into it. The sides raised above her head as the amount of fluff in the pillows became obvious. Twilight however gracefully settled down on Celestia's cushion momentarily daydreaming her memories of when it was Celestia in her spot and herself in Pinkie's. Twilight began to read aloud after opening the book to the dedication page. “In dedication to all the alicorns that gave their lives to save our ungrateful race, we honor your memory and salute your bravely. May each of you rest in peace.” underneath it gave the dates of Peppermints life. “Peppermint Swirl, Born 940 BCL, death 980 BCL.” “Twilight? What dose BCL mean?” Pinkie asked interjecting. “I bet it means before Celestia and Luna.” Twilight replied. Once again she went back to her reading but before she could get one word out Pinkie interjected again. “Twilight what time in history is this in again? And what does it mean by ungrateful race?” “It says here that this story took place in the times before Celestia and Luna brought the three tribes together. As for the ungrateful part I will have to ask Celestia about that because this book was written many centuries ago. Now Pinkie I know your excited but could you please keep the interjections to a minimum?” “Yes, Twilight” Pinkie replied. Twilight began to read aloud once more starting with chapter one.
~Chapter One, A Foal To Be Proud Of~~Chapter One~ ~A Foal To Be Proud Of~ One damp, but crisp and fairly cool morning in spring, Queen Amethyst of Cloudsdale lay in the Cloudsdale Royal Hospital. I am in labor! She thought to herself. “so why after all these long painful hours am I still with foal!” she wined loudly as another wave of pain washed over her senses. Her normally flowing mane was glued to her neck with sweat. She was breathing hard as each new wave of pain continued to wash over her. Doctor Strong Heart had began to coax her while she painfully waited for her cervix to dilate. “Breathe, Breathe, your doing really well.” Doctor Strong Heart said calmly. Sharp pulling and stretching pains tested her will to stay awake as the pain was beginning to be too much to bear. “AAH!” she screamed. ~gulp~ She swallowed hard in a failed attempt to push down her rising fear. “BREATHE, BREATHE MY FLANK!” she snapped at her doctor. Doctor Strong Heart took no offense to her sharp tone or the hateful look in her eyes. Reaching out her trembling hoof she managed to grab the sheet next to her. She squeezed it with all that she had. “AAH!” she screamed again. “Why is this taking so long. Please little foal just come out and meet the world I don't know how much longer I can last!” With one last hard wave of pain the doctor yelled, “PUSH!” She did as the doctor ordered and though the pain brought her to near fainting levels she was glad it was almost over. When the pain came to a slight annoying ache and she heard her foals cry she smiled. “Its a girl my lady, a small but fine princess indeed.” said a fairly new and young nurse. “My lady Queen this is my daughter Nurse Bright heart. You may know her sister as Miss Dawn Heart. ~P.~P.~S.~ “Twilight?” Pinkie interjected. “Yes Pinkie?” Twilight responded looking up from the book. “Do you think the doctor and the nurse are distant ancestors of Nurse Red heart?” “Well pinkie I personally don't know but maybe you could ask her when you see her again, don't the cakes foals have a check up coming up?” “Yeah they do, I think I will. Thanks.” ~P.~P.~S.~ “Yes, Dr. Strong Heart, I know her she was my mid wife for a time and I have asked her to care for my foal while I am unable to.” The queen replied. “That's wonderful I shall give her my congratulations as a father and a doctor.” Dr. Strong Heart replied. Nurse Bright Heart gave the foal to her mother. Queen Ariea smiled, “Welcome to the family little one.” “What will you name her?” Nurse Bright heart asked her cheeks warming with the delight of seeing mother and foal together for the first time. The queen looked down at her daughters features and said “I think I will name her Peppermint Swirl.” Yawning and smiling as the pain of her labor was finally dissipating she said, “I am tired I should like to sleep.” Nurse Bright heart took the foal from her mothers arms and laid her in the bed side bassinet. ~P.~P.~S.~ The king off in a village on the farthest edge of his kingdom caught wind of his newborns birth. His wings fluttered at his sides as the messenger flew away with notice of his coming return. “Please excuse me mayor I have an Important announcement to make then I must depart.” he said the excitement clearly present in his voice and eyes. “Yes your Majesty.” the mayor said and stepped aside to allow the large stallion room to speak. Raising his voice and coming to a stand still at his full height while displaying his royal grace, he addressed the crowd.“Citizens of Rain Puff village I would like to announce that the newest arrival of the royal family has been born as of yesterday morning.” A large applause erupted from the crowd as pegasi ponies young and old rejoiced the new foals birth. “I would also Like to say Farewell as I have yet to see my new foal and will be leaving immediately following this announcement. So farewell my dear subjects until next time.” He backed away and spread his large wings and with one well practiced flap of his wings he flew towards home. ~P.~P.~S.~ Meanwhile back at the hospital, the Queen lay asleep in her bed. Her sheets had been changed and she rested comfortably in the recovery room. Nurse Bright Heart came in to check on baby Peppermint when something about the tiny foals wings caught her by surprise. Careful not to gasp she covered her muzzle with her hoof and quietly backed out of the room. “Doctor Strong Heart!” Nurse Bright Heart called franticly. “Yes my child what is it?” he replied his age showing it self under his well groomed complexion. “Well... you see... um...” she began hesitantly. “spit it out child.” he said impatiently. “Peppermints wings are too small!” she said quickly. “Bright Heart my child if your going to live up to your cutie mark then you need to not be afraid of what your destiny en-tales and do not be afraid to ask if you do not understand something OK.” He said patting her on the head. “Yes sir.” she replied stepping out of the way so that he may go in and see for himself what she was talking about. ~P.~P.~S.~ Time had pasted and the king, tired as he was, finally arrived. He had for gotten how long of a flight it was from rain puff to cloudsdale. The sun rising in the sky when he had left was now beginning to set. His wings sore from the long flight lay limp and his side. Their feathers brushing the soft cloud surface as he slowly walked to the castle gates. Next time I take that flight on short notice I shall have a carriage awaiting me at the half way mark so that I am not so tired. He thought to himself. In keeping to his royal stature he held his head high and carefully folded his wings to his side. He allowed his hooves to carry himself to the hospital inside the castle walls. He came to a stop at a large pair of white doors. Pushing the doors open he stepped inside. Before he could say anything the mare at the counter said. “They are down the hall to the right and its the second door on the left.” “Thank you.” he replied swiftly fatigue still evident in his voice. He found his way to the room and quietly entered. As he slowly moved over to the bassinet he saw a tiny mint green foal with a chocolate brown mane that was a tangled mess of curls. Set upon her back were two very small wings. Upon her tiny head was set a little nub of a horn. He smiled feeling the energy return to him. The queen still asleep, awoke when she heard her husband quietly humming a sweet lullaby to his new born daughter. “~hum, hum, hum, hum~” Not wanting him to stop and not wanting to startle him she gently touched his flank. He turned his head slightly to acknowledge his wife's presence and whispered. “she's beautiful. What is her name?” “Well you know it would not have been possible with out you so don't go giving me all the credit now. Her name is Peppermint Swirl.” “Of course I wouldn't say that but look at her the only thing different between you and her is your coat colors and maybe her eyes but we won't know that for awhile.” laugh “yes that may be true but it seems to run in the family. I know you look just like your father. The only difference is that your mane is slightly darker and you keep a beard, he dose not.” Moments passed before they heard a sharp knock on the door. knock, knock The door creaked slowly, the age of the hospital showing. Creak Doctor Strong heart stepped in shutting the door gently behind him. creak, click “Your majesty's there is something I believe you should know about your daughter.” Both of them turned their attention to the doctor. “upon closer inspection of your daughters wings I have discovered that they are quite small. Smaller than average. In correspondence to her body frame at this point and for a good amount of time in her young years she will not be able to fly. However building her wing strength is crucial. For now until she is three months she will need extra calcium. I will prescribe a powder that you give to her in water once a day. When she has reached three months she will need to do daily exercises. I can not tell you if she will ever fly and I can not tell you when her growth spurts will be. All I can tell you is to hope.” The queen began to sob. sniff, sniff “our baby!” The king turned to comfort his wife when a thought occurred to him. “Doctor? I had a similar problem when I was young, I could not fly because my wings were to small. If I were to teach my daughter the same exercises your father prescribed to me would it help to build up her strength?” “If its the same ones I am thinking of then yes she should be able to fly the way you do and I recommend that you teach her directly not have a care taker or any one else teach her.” “Dear, its settled she will be OK under my wings and I know everything will be fine.” He said to his wife who was now trying to dry her face with the sheets of her bed. “One more thing, make sure a swift flying adult is with her at all times should she attempt to fly.” the doctor said before steeping out of the room. The door creaking shut behind him. Creak, click “We really must consider updating the hospital what with the number of ponies growing in our home city it will be greatly needed. I am sure this place could stand to have another two hundred rooms. What do you think dear?” “Yes I agree the extra funds we have set aside could go to many buildings here in the city.” “Then its settled I shall talk to the construction board.” ~P.~P.~S.~ “Few! Is this chapter over now? I need to bounce a bit and I kinda feel like some popcorn.” Pinkie asked jumping up. “It would seem so, I need a stretch and maybe a glass of water.” Twilight replied. “okie dokie lokie! See you in ten minuets!” Pinkie said bouncing off.
~Chapter 1.5, First Flight~~Chapter 1.5~ ~First Flight~ Twilight and pinkie had gathered back at their reading spot with popcorn and water in hoof. They settled down on the alicorn sized cushions. “nom, nom, nom” pinkie managed to say between hooffuls of extra buttery popcorn. “this sure is good, but not as good as Applejack’s apple butter popcorn that stuff is to die for. Hehe!” “hum,” Twilight said taking some for herself. “I shall like to judge that for my self.” … “mmmmm... this is good, but your right it can't compare to Applejack's.” Taking a sip of water twilight began to read aloud. ~P.~P.~S.~ A total of five years had pasted and Peppermint was growing into a strong, bright and energetic little filly. “Princess! You must not run in the halls you may trip and fall!” yelled her care taker, Dawn Heart. Dawn heart was a young brown and cream colored Pegasus mare. Her cutie mark showed that of a moon setting to make way for the sun. I swear I find myself chasing her more often than teaching her. Thought Dawn heart as she raced after Peppermint. “No! I don't want to study right now! I want to go see princesses Luna and Celestia.” Peppermint shouted back as she struggled to stay a reasonable distance from the mare. Her wings fluttered at her sides. Her flying had been improving and as she ran her back hooves would sometimes lift off the ground. At this time Princess Luna was only a year older and Princess Celestia was two years older than Peppermint. “Ow” Little Peppermint had bummed into her father, He was now sternly glaring at her. “Have we not told you before that running and shouting is no way to get something?” Peppermints head drooped. “Sorry, father.” Out of Breath, Dawn Heart slowly walked up behind them. The king gave her a quick nod to acknowledge her. Looking back down at his daughter he said, “Peppermint say your sorry.” Peppermint turned to Dawn heart and bowed her head. “I am most sorry for my actions. Can you forgive me?” “Accepted.” Dawn Heart replied panting. Peppermint Turned to her father expectantly. “Now Peppermint I want you to ask nicely if you can go see your fellow princesses.” “yes father.” Turning once again to face Dawn Heart she said, “Can we please go and visit Princess Luna and Princess Celestia in Uni-Uni-cor-n-ia.” The word Unicornia Stumbled out of the filly’s mouth. Dawn heart looked to the king for approval then nodded. Just moments later the crowed of three prepared for take off. “Peppermint child, get on my back.” Her father said lowering himself down so she could climb on. Once on he stood up and spread his large wings, flapped once and dived off the ledge with Dawn Heart following. As he did this Peppermint yelled, “Weeeeeeeeeeeeee!” It was a short flight between to two kingdoms. The closer they came the more excited Peppermint became. The little filly's wings would flutter at her side. “Peppermint dear calm down I don't want you falling” her father said wobbling from her movement. Just a few feet away from the balcony Where Luna and Celestia were waiting Peppermint got too excited and her little wings buzzed. Before anypony knew it she had jumped off her fathers head and was sailing unsteadily toward them. “Peppermint No!” Her father cried. It was too late peppermint was crashing head on into Celestia and Luna. Giggles filled each of their voices. “Did you see! Did you see! I flew! I really Flew!” Peppermint said excited. “Yes we saw, that was so cool!” Celestia and Luna said in unison. “Oh they saw, and so did I young lady, you nearly scared me half to death! Don't you ever do that again. At least not with out warning first.” Her father said rubbing her head. “Good job though kiddo.” Peppermint smiled really big. “Thank you daddy! Look what I can do.” she said facing her friends. She lowered her front hooves and raised her back. Her wings began to buzz, slowly her hind hooves then her front hooves lifted off the ground. One foot, then two feet, three feet then four. She had risen above their heads. When she looked down her wings froze and she fell to the ground. “Ow, Hehe that wasn't suppose to happen but cool huh! I am getting better every day!” she said getting up. “Yeah I bet with that spirit you'll be flying better than us in no time.” Celestia said cheering her on. Peppermint blushed. “Thanks guys! Lets go play.” The three fillies all blank Flanks set out to play. Today they would climb a tree in hopes their cutie marks would appear. ~P.~P.~S.~ “Hey Twilight, the three of them sound like the cutie mark crusaders. Funny huh!” Pinkie said Interjecting. “Yeah, They do don't they. Remind me to ask Celestia and Luna about that.” She continued to read. ~P.~P.~S.~ Five years had come and gone again and Peppermint and her friends had laughed and played the whole way. With Celestia's and Luna's Flanks no longer bare, The lets try to find our cutie marks game had ended and Peppermint waited patiently for hers to appear. “Princess Peppermint!” Her now older, but same care taker, called from outside the door. “yes?” The now older filly called with confidence and maturity. “Your mother would like to see you, she is in the hospital with your new siblings.” Little did she know today of all days would be the day that her flank would no longer be bare but it would bare the symbol of her destiny.
~Chapter Two, Laughter Among Family~~Chapter Two~ ~Laughter Among Family~ Peppermint walked down the hall, her hooves clicked and clacked on the cloud stone floor. Click, clack, click, clack. The doors of the palace hospital were in sight. Stopping at the doors she said to herself, from this point on when I see my new siblings I must be all I can be to show them that they are going to have the best big sister in the world! Opening the doors with a gold covered hoof, she entered. Greeting here with warm words the receptionist at the front desk. “Welcome Princess, I take it you would like to see your mother?” “Yes, I would. What room is she in?” “She is in room 279, that's in the new section, and Princess please be careful with that ice cream cone.” “I will, thank you.” Peppermint replied. In her magic, Floating beside her head, was a cone of her favorite Ice cream. It was Mint Chocolate Chip. She cantered down the hall. Her gold shoes clicked and clacked on the cloud stone floor. Click, clack, click, clack. Her surroundings were Plain white cloud walls. Each door was adorned with a medal plate that had a number on it. “275 … 276 … 277 … 278 … and here we are, 279.” She moved her hoof and gently opened the door. Her hooves clicked on the floor as she stepped inside. Looking around she saw her mother sleeping gingerly. Her mane full of sweat and exhaustion present. Are mares always this tired after having foals? She thought to herself. She cringed, directing her attention off her tired mother she focused on her new siblings. She stared into the crib. Laying inside were two cute foals. One a colt and the other a filly. The colt was blue in color and had a dark brown mane with light brown streaks. “Your coat looks like daddy's” she whispered smiling. The filly light purple in color and had a light pink mane. Both wings and horns adorned their bodies. “I am sure you two will grow into fine royals. I will be their to help you the whole way. I love you little siblings.” she said turning. As she turned to walk away the clicking of her gold shoes woke the two foals. They began to fuss. Not knowing what else to do Peppermint began to sing her lullaby. While singing she was startled by her father gently touching her flank. She had forgotten her ice cream was still in her magic and it fell to the floor. Still startled she stepped back onto it and slipped. The force of her body crushed the cone and it splattered all over her flank, tail, mane and muzzle. Her lullaby long forgotten all five ponies were now laughing. This made peppermint happy and it felt good to laugh and share the laughter. A bright flash on her flank interrupted their laughing and her father uncovered the source. “Well would you look at this! My daughter I believe your talent has been revealed.” Turning her still ice cream covered head she saw a small image of a ice cream cone with little brown swirls on her flank. Upon seeing this something in her mind clicked and a thought occurred to her. This is what I am meant to do! “My gift is laughter!” She announced happily. With no room to jump around she quickly excused herself. Stepping out into the hall she gave a silent, “yahoo!” ~Later that day~ Celestia and Luna were in a quite room playing a rather heated game of chess when a scroll bearing a mint green ribbon appeared in front of them. Curiosity over coming their senses, they quickly opened the letter and began to read. Dear Princesses Celestia and Luna, I Princess Peppermint Swirl cordially invite you to my Cuteceanera Party. The party will be held here in Cloudstale castle tomorrow afternoon when the sun is one mark passed its highest. As I am sure you have already found out my brother and sister have been born and you are welcome to visit them. Your dear Friend, Princess Peppermint Swirl Ps. I know this is Ironic since I am already fifteen. “She got her cutie mark!” they said in unison. “I wonder what it is?” Celestia said smiling. “I can't wait to see her!” boomed Luna in her royal voice. Excitement so evident. “Don't be so loud were not addressing a crowd.” Celestia said covering her ears from the intense noise. Early the next morning peppermint was bouncing around the ball room placing streamers of every color she could find. Balloons decorated every entrance and column. On a long banquet table there were drinks, snacks and a large cloud cake. With everything set up there was just one more thing she had to do. She had to attend to the large line of pegasi suitors that were lined up out side the court room. When news spread throughout the kingdom of her coming of age, stallions jumped at the opportunity to ask for her hoof. So many stallions lined the castle grounds that her father told them all to come back the next day. ~P.~P.~S.~ “No!, none of them are right. I want to fall in love not just take some random stallion off the street. Coming to impress me like this is just a waste of time!” Peppermint yelled to her father. “Darling you must choose somepony, you can't become a queen unless you make the step to finding a suitable partner to rule with you.” “well each and every one of those stallions had greed and bit signs written all over their faces. Their not asking me because they want to love me. They are asking me because they want the rich life that comes with being a royal.” “Like I said you have to choose somepony.” “I will father, I will it just takes time I only got my cutie mark yesterday.” Peppermint replied. “If I may interrupt?” her mother asked. “Yes mother?” peppermint said turning to face her. “Well darling, your father is right but as I recall when it came time for me to choose I made your father wait Three years before I answered his call for my hoof.” “Really?” Peppermint looked between them in disbelief. “In the mean time while you contemplate your decision I would like you to go and renew our food treaty we have with the earth kingdom.” “But why me? Can't you go like you always do?” “I will be unable to go dear, but somepony has to.” “But why me? I don't know if I can I mean I am just a princess and I never go anywhere with out you guys!” Peppermint started to panic. “This will be a good way for you to practice being a queen.” her mother said hugging her. “now I believe that your friends will be here shortly shall we all go down to greet them?” “yes.” ~P.~P.~S.~ Standing before the solar and lunar princesses was a rather tall and slim Peppermint. It had been awhile since they had seen her and she had grown quite nicely. “Hello Peppermint.” they said in unison. “Hello!” she replied cheerfully. “it really has been too long.” she said coming up to them. “Yes it has.” Celestia said smiling. “You both look amazing, you must tell me what you use in your manes.” “Actually you might find this ironic and a bit funny but we use peppermint oil” Luna said hesitantly. “ha! That is funny I should try that I have never seen manes so smooth.” The rest of the afternoon was lively, Celestia discovered her undeniable love for cloud cake and Peppermint and Luna chatted up a storm. They all danced to their hearts content.
