The Club

by Gohma Dameon

Rating: mature
Tags: Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Romance, Sex, Adventure, Pinkie Pie, Twilight Sparkle, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
Length: 62210

An innocuous package left on Twilight Sparkle's doorstep marks the beggining of a journey of self discovery, which will challenge her perceptions of Equestrian society, her relationships with the ponies closest to her, and even her own sexuality

An innocuous looking package left on Twilight Sparkle's doorstep marks the beginning of a journey of self discovery, which will challenge Twilight's perceptions of Equestrian society, her relationships with the ponies closest to her, and even her own sexuality.
The newly crowned princess must navigate a deceptively shadowy maze of political intrigue, perversion, and hidden personal agendas centered around a secretive organization dedicated to “satisfying the private needs of ponies, privately.”

Heads up, this story has explicit sexual scenes which are the focus of some chapters. That said, this is also meant to be a serious narrative and may go thousands of words without anything sexual at all. I hope you find the story both arousing (at points) and engaging (throughout).

Edit: Oh my freaking goodness, we're approaching we've passed 50,000 words here. I'm apparently writing a novel. I understand that a story of this length is probably a bit discouraging for being a sexually charged fanfiction posted online. In spite of that, anyone who thinks that political intrigue, dom/sub relationships and first love silliness in equal measure sounds like a good read will probably be able to get into this, as long as they come up for air between chapters. Celestia knows, I write slowly enough that new readers are better off taking their time catching up anyway.

Published 2013-09-29 07:40:02 UTC
Last updated 2014-10-22 03:12:50 UTC

Chapter 2: The Dive

As she ran to reach the café in time, Twilight Sparkle couldn't dismiss thoughts of what she had just been doing at the library; it was so unlike her, and yet she wanted more. She wanted to know who had sent the package to her, why they suspected (correctly as it were) that she would enjoy it's contents and what their intentions were. Could it possibly be that one of her closest friends had sent this to her? If so, did that mean she wanted a more intimate relationship with Twilight?

I don't know what's more distressing, the idea that one of my best friends could have these kinds of feelings for me and I've never noticed, or the idea that someone I don't know well – maybe even a complete stranger – may have sent me that toy.

As she considered a number of scenarios, some less pleasant than others, Twilight decided that she needed to determine who among her friends might have sent her the gift, lest she ask the wrong kind of question to the wrong pony. Only that wasn't easy to do; Twilight hadn't ever discussed sex with her friends at any length and had no idea which of them might have an interest in her or high-end sex toys. The note that came with the package was very impersonally written, most likely to avoid giving away the writer's identity in case she hadn't liked or found the gift funny. Was giving the present in such an indirect way, with such a vague note attached, a sign that her shyest friend, Fluttershy, was behind it? Could the magical nature of the toy indicate that Rarity – her only close unicorn friend – had selected the toy, or would any of her friends have picked out such a toy due to Twilight's own affinity for magic? It was hard to imagine a prim and proper mare like Rarity, or such an honest and straightforward pony like Applejack could have done this. Fluttershy seemed too demure, and Rainbow Dash was much too bold to hide behind these mysterious tactics. Pinkie…

I have no idea whether or not Pinkie Pie would do this, Twilight realized. She's so unpredictable, but she loves giving gifts and setting up surprises. She also likes mysteries and playing games and making ponies laugh.

The more Twilight thought about it, the more it seemed that Pinkie was most likely to do this sort of thing. She thought about it as she sat at the table outside the café, not realizing she had gotten there or that Pinkie had just sat across from her.

“Watcha thinkin' so hard about?”

“I'm trying to decide whether or not you might have sent me a present without signing it.”

“Oh. Do you wanna know what I think?”

“Sure,” Twilight said, just before it hit her who she was talking to. “Ah, Pinkie!”

“I'm pretty sure I won't have sent you any secret gifts until your birthday rolls around. Or Hearth's Warming. Maybe Hearts and Hooves if I found out you didn't have a special somepony to spend it with and needed cheering up.”

“So uh, you haven't sent me anything?”

“Nope. Were you expecting me to?”

“Er, no. I got a gift, but I don't know who it's from.”

*GASP* “Is it your birthday already?!” Pinkie exclaimed, suddenly wearing a party hat and holding a cake with a hastily scrawled Happy Birthday in purple frosting on top.

“No, Pinkie,” Twilight chuckled as she removed the party hat she hadn't noticed she was wearing until seeing the one on her friends head.

“Oh,” the pink mare responded as she looked despondently at the cake she was holding.

“We can still have cake.”

“So who could have sent it?” Pinkie wondered aloud as she served Twilight a piece of cake and a party favor that seemingly came out of thin air. “And what is it? A book?”

Twilight took a bite of cake to buy herself a moment. She wasn't sure what to say. On the one hoof, if she had been a bit more open with her friends about this sort of thing she might have some idea which – if any of them – had sent her the toy. On the other hoof, she had no idea what Pinkie Pie thought about this kind of thing and didn't want to offend or freak her out.

“Um, it's kind of personal.”

Pinkie's face fell for a moment before shifting to an expression of interest and then a conspiratorial look, as though she knew something and found it funny not to say. “Is it… romantic?”

Twilight honestly didn't know if there was any romantic intention behind the stallion shaped synthetic appendage. “Er… ”

“Or maybe it's just naughty!” *Giggle-snort*

Twilight could feel her face grow hot. “Pinkie! Did you send me that – that toy – or not?!” she demanded, dropping her voice to avoid being overheard.

Pinkie giggled again. “Nooooo~♪ But I think I know who did! Heeheehee!”

Twilight took a deep breath and exhaled slowly. “Pinkie, tell me what you know. Be serious.”

“Don't worry Twi, I don't know what exactly it is and I didn't know about this before, but it makes sense!”

“What do you mean?”

“How about just a hint? Which of our friends would use the word 'boudoir' instead of bedroom when talking about this kind of thing?”

Twilight stood in front of Carousel Boutique, certain that she had correctly interpreted Pinkie's clue. Even so, she found herself hesitating. It had been easy enough to talk to Pinkie Pie; the bouncy earth pony hadn't really given her a choice. Broaching the subject with Rarity seemed much more daunting. In spite of what Pinkie had said, Twilight was determined to carefully find out if Rarity had actually given her the package before discussing its contents. Steeling herself, she knocked on the door.

“Do come in! We're open for business, darlings!” came the fashionista's response.

Twilight let herself in, ringing the bell above the shop's door as she did so. She heard, “I'll be right with you,” come from the back room where Rarity kept her stock that was not on display. Slowly, she approached the counter, glancing around at the spring line Rarity had recently finished, without really seeing any of the clothes. Standing by the counter, Twilight felt almost as nervous as she did before a test. Almost.

“Terribly sorry for the wait,” Rarity said as she entered the room. “Twilight! I'm delighted to see you. Where were you this morning, dear?”

Twilight had actually forgotten the missed spa appointment. “When I arrived in town, Mayor Mare wanted to see me right away. I guess she's excited for the opportunity to discuss local politics with a princess.”

“Ugh,” Rarity responded with indignation on Twilight's behalf, “what jackals, descending upon you the moment you arrived. You should have been given a warm reception and a chance to relax from the trip, not extra work to consider. I'll make it up to you; we'll go to the spa right now. I could always do with another hoof scrub.”

“Actually, I need to ask you something,” Twilight said, knowing she needed to address this soon while they still had privacy. “Have you, um, sent me a package just recently?”

“Why? Did you receive something without a note or a return address?”

“Well, it did have a note, but it didn't say who it was from.”

“Hmm, interesting. Why did you think of me?” Rarity asked as she moved towards the back of the shop.

Twilight began to feel flustered again. Had Pinkie been wrong? Was it a joke? Was Rarity being coy? Twilight followed her friend, too absorbed in her queries to consider where they were headed. “Pinkie said she thought it was from you when I asked her about it.”

“Pinkie?” Rarity asked as she headed up the stairs. “Did she say why she thought it was from me? What did you tell her about the package?”

Again, Twilight was unsure how much to say. Pinkie hadn't specifically said it was Rarity, and when Twilight pressed for more information, Pinkie refused to say anything else. As they reached the landing and stood outside the door to Rarity's bedroom, Twilight finally responded, “Pinkie didn't explain. I told her about the note and… she guessed at what the contents of the package were.”

“You're being rather indirect,” Rarity said as she beckoned Twilight into her room, “but then again, so am I.”

It suddenly occurred to Twilight that she was standing in Rarity's “boudoir” and her heart began to beat a little harder. “Uh, why did we come up here?”

“Why – to speak privately, of course. Did you appreciate it?”

“W-what?”

“My gift, darling, did you appreciate it? Or have you not tried it on just yet?”

“Er, just to be clear… you're not talking about clothes, are you?”

“No,” Rarity said as she approached Twilight. “I'm talking about something that came in a deep, regal purple and has your cutie mark stamped on it.” Then she whispered in Twilight's ear, “You wouldn't have come calling if you hadn't liked it. I'll bet you just couldn't help yourself. How many times did you finish?”

Twilight's whole body shook and she stepped back. Rarity looked at her with a nearly predatory gleam in her eye. “Come now, darling, don't be embarrassed. I have a whole new world to show you; things you've never dreamed- ” The bell above the shop door rang.

“No. No! This spoils everything.” Rarity started to pout, but then seemed overcome with inspiration. “Just a moment, Twilight.”

The dressmaker went to her door and stepped out onto the landing where she called down to her unexpected customers, letting them know she'd be down momentarily. Then she closed the door back and came up to Twilight again.

“We simply haven't any time, but I must know for certain, right now. Did you appreciate my gift?”

“Yes,” Twilight managed weakly.

“Why?”

Twilight considered for a moment, regaining some of her composure. “It offers new opportunities for self stim– er, self exploration.”

Rarity smiled knowingly. “Alright, I wanted to do this with you, but you don't need me to hold your hoof.” Rarity levitated a piece of parchment and a quill from her desk and began writing directions in her elegant scrawl. “If you want to – how to put it delicately – to explore a bit further, please go here. Tell them that, heh, tell them Elusive sent you.”

Twilight accepted the note and glanced it over, discovering it pointed to a shop somewhere near the marketplace in Ponyville. That can't be right, I'd have seen such a shop.

“One last thing,” Rarity said as she ushered her friend out. “It may not be the sort of place a princess of Equestria wants to be seen doing her shopping.”

Twilight found herself standing in an alley she had never noticed before, looking at a small building nestled between two larger shops that faced out onto the main road, wearing a flamboyantly red dress that comfortably hid her wings and cutie mark. She had also tied her mane into a ponytail and worn a large pair of sunglasses she acquired in Canterlot recently. It was a good thing Rarity had warned her; the building had the unmistakable look of seediness, like a dive bar. On the bright side, if anypony had seen her walking through town, even if they had recognized her, Twilight felt reasonably certain that nopony would notice her enter this shop.

After all, the only way somepony could see me without walking into the alley is if they were flying directly overhead.

Twilight had no sooner had this reassuring thought than Rainbow Dash settled down on the cobblestone beside her.

“Twilight! What's the big idea coming back to Ponyville and not coming to see me all day?”

Twilight didn't know what had happened until she heard Rainbow Dash laughing. They were both inside the store standing next to a display of dildos that came in various sizes, shapes and colors.

“Wow, Twilight, I didn't expect you to take me shopping for this kind of thing, but maybe it could be fun,” Rainbow said picking up a large, floppy jelly dick and wiggling it in Twilight's face.

“I panicked! I didn't want anyone to see me come in here – and would you put that down!”

“Wait… so you admit you were headed in here? I didn't think you were a dirty filly, Twi, but it's always the one's you least suspect, huh?”

“This was an awful mistake,” Twilight whimpered as she turned to leave.

Rainbow Dash flitted into her path, blocking the door. “Whoa now, don't get all worked up! I'm just teasing. 'Sides, every mare's got one or two, right? C'mon, maybe this really can be fun.”

Before Twilight could protest, she was already being pushed further into the shop. She decided to just go with it, besides this was her chance to actually talk about sex with a friend and not have to worry about it being awkward. At least not anymore than it already was. As they browsed an aisle with less ridiculous toys than the brazen window display, Twilight learned that Rainbow hadn't gotten a proper toy since she came to Ponyville, didn't know this shop was here and had actually figured out how to make temporary toys from clouds. After a couple minutes, Twilight came to a section with toys for males. She wondered if this was what Rarity had in mind when she recommended the store.

I'm still not sure how to feel about that, the look she gave me was almost frightening. Although, I can't deny I want to try some new things on my own at least.

Resolving to enjoy the gift and not worry about how her relationship with Rarity might be changing until later, Twilight began to consider the various devices in front of her. There were sleeves of course and small dildos designed for hitting prostates that she wouldn't really benefit from and an eclectic collection of other things.

“Pffft, haha! Twi, I don't think you got the equipment for any of the stuff you're looking at!” Rainbow laughed as she noticed what her friend was looking at.

“Er, no! Of course not; it's not for me. I don't have a – I mean I'm not a stallion.”

“Well, duh,” Dash replied, rolling her eyes. Then she briefly looked shocked before smiling giddily. “Whoa-hoa! Does our resident bookworm royalty have a special somepony?”

“Dash!” Twilight hissed, not wanted to risk anyone noticing her.

“You do! You totally do, and you're already getting stuff for when you two get biz-zay! Who is he? He's not some stuck-up type from Canterlot is he?”

“I'm from Canterlot, and you've got the wrong idea.”

“Sure I do. Twilight… you know our friends are gonna find out sooner or later. I just wanna know first!”

Twilight had no idea how to correct Rainbow without saying something really uncomfortable. All she really wanted was for her friend to stop pestering her about it. That, and to not go telling anyone that she had a coltfriend.

“Please just drop it. If anything happens, you'll be the first to know.”

“Ugh, fine. What were you planning on getting him anyway?”

Twilight took another look at the shelves and selected the box that most intrigued her. Before she could say anything about why she had chosen a beginners sounding kit, Rainbow put the box back for her.

“I'm just gonna go out on a limb here and guess he didn't specifically tell you to shove something up his dick. Unless he did, he probably won't like that.”

“Well what do you think I should get?”

“I don't know, I've never had a coltfriend who liked using toys while he had me. Woulda just distracted from how awesome I am. In bed!” she added with a flair of her wings and sudden backward thrust of her hips. “Let's just ask someone who works here.”

Twilight and Rainbow Dash returned to the front of the store and came up to the counter by the door. The mare working there was reading a magazine, but quickly set it aside as they approached. Twilight couldn't help noticing the black piercings in her nose and lower lip; she normally would have thought this made somepony seem immature or off-putting, but somehow they complimented the clerk's light gray coat and burnt umber mane. Twilight was looking into the mare's deep sea green eyes when Dash nudged her side.

“Ow! What?”

“She asked if we needed help.”

“Oh,” Twilight blushed as she turned back to the clerk, “yes. Could you, ah, recommend a toy for a… well, a stallion.”

“Sure!” she responded with chipper enthusiasm. “I know just the thing. This way.”

As she followed, Twilight wondered why she had gotten so caught up in the clerk's appearance. I can't shake this weird feeling I know her from somewhere. Maybe the situation with Rarity has me feeling paranoid. Or am I just over-thinking this?

After a moment they came to a large glass case near the back of the shop, which the salesmare proceeded to unlock. “This is absolutely the best we've got. Real top-of-the-line stuff. Oh, I forgot – what's your budget like?”

Twilight realized she had no idea how much toys for stallions cost, let alone 'top-of-the-line.' “Um, I hadn't really – I mean I wasn't taking money into account…”

“Oh, good!” the clerk said as she pulled a large box from the case and relocked it. Before Twilight could clarify, the mare began to describe the selling features – “lube is hoof-pumped into the case and soaks through the porous thermal plastic, creating a very realistic feel –” and maintenance – “be sure to wash the inside after use and occasionally dust it lightly with cornstarch; you can remove the case and turn it inside out, it's really stretchy –” as she returned to the counter. “Is there anything else, before I ring you up?”

Twilight sighed as she resigned herself to the dent this was likely to put in her coin purse. “No, that will – oh, wait. I just remembered, my friend, Rar– er, Elusive, sent me here. She said I should mention her.”

“OH!” the salesmare exclaimed, “you should have said something sooner, hon! We'll get you squared away in a jiffy, hang on.”

As she kneeled down to pull a form out from underneath the counter, Rainbow Dash nudged Twilight again. “Elusive? Is that supposed to be some kinda code name? You're talking about Rarity, right?”

“SSH!” the clerk hissed as she set the form on the counter. “We don't use members' names. For discretion.”

Twilight looked at the form in front of her. It appeared to be a registration form for something simply called “The Club.” In block letters it proudly proclaimed: “Dedication to satisfying the private needs of ponies, privately.” It also, declared discounts for members were available at the “Glory Hole in the Wall,” which Twilight could only assume was the name of the sex shop. (That certainly explains why the name isn't advertised on the store front.) Below that it asked for a name, pseudonym, age, gender, and place of residence. There was also a check-box for a newsletter and one for “Letters from Members.”

It seems odd that Rarity would join a mailing list just for cheaper sex toys from such a seedy place, let alone send me here. In fact, it's downright suspicious.

The bell over the door rang and the salesmare excused herself to tend to the other customer, giving Twilight a moment to deliberate over whether or not to sign up. “Does anything about this seem off to you, Rainbow?”

“I'm a little more focused on how many of my friends shop here without telling me.”

“Well, I've only been here this one time-”

“No, I mean Pinkie just-”

“SSH!” the mare working at the shop hissed again.

Twilight turned to see Pinkie bounce up to the counter and set a list down before turning to greet her friends. “Sorry Dashie, you'll have to call me Cherry-Berry Crumble, or just Berry for short.”

“Hang on a moment,” Twilight managed, confused and flustered, “you and Rarity both-”

“SSH! Sush. C'mon,” the mare behind the counter admonished. “It may just be a courtesy when everypony involved knows each other, but it's still an important one!”

“Sorry.”

“SO,” Pinkie resumed as she giggled, “pick a name yet? I don't wanna get shushed!”

“No, I'm not sure I even want to join-”

“Oh, but it will be so much fun! There's more to it than just discounts. Speaking of, will everything on my list for Friday fit on my tab, Play Date?”

The clerk, evidently named Play Date, looked over the list. “It's… a lot of stuff, Ms. Crumble. Are you still giving away favors to all of your guests?”

“You know it! It's OK, right? Parties are members only.”

*sigh* “You've always paid me back before.” She then turned to Twilight, “Do you need a minute to decide on joining?”

“Yes, please.”

Play Date nodded and went about gathering various toys and supplies from the list.

Now that they were alone, Twilight began to question her bubbly friend. “I'm starting to get really frustrated. What is going on and why didn't you tell me about this? You had to have known when I spoke to you earlier that Rarity was planning this.”

“Yeppers! Elusive asked me to go ahead and do my shopping today, in case you didn't know if you wanted to sign up or not. It's lucky I didn't get here later.”

Twilight began to say something about being left out of the loop, but Pinkie cut her off. “I can't really say much right now, Twiley. The Club is really strict about being exclusive, but it isn't just toys and sex stuff. It's a big group with lots of ponies all over Equestria. We have parties and competitions and there are a buncha different businesses and places that cater to the Club, specially. I wish I could tell you all about it, but you gotta be a member first.”

Twilight considered this for a moment, “Is it… mostly sex?”

“Some ponies see it that way.”

“Are any of our other friends part of this?”

“I can't say. You could ask them, but they might not wanna say if they are.”

Twilight turned to Rainbow Dash. “Don't look at me, this is totally out of left field.”

Twilight thought about it for another moment, took a deep breath, and signed her name on the form. She hastily filled in each field, trying not to let her anxiousness set in. The last thing left was to pick a false name. “Hmm… ”

“Most members pick something androgynous sounding,” Pinkie offered. “Sometimes it's a play on their actual name.”

Like Elusive, thought Twilight. She scribbled down the first thing that sounded right when she said it in her head: Evening Star. “Or Eve, for short,” Twilight mumbled.

Pinkie clapped her hooves in approval as Play Date returned. “I'm going to have to order a few of these things special, Ms. Crumble. When can I expect your payment?”

“I'll pay when I pick everything up on Friday.”

Play Date turned to Twilight, “Ooh! We have our newest member, Ms… ” Play Date's jaw dropped as she read Twilight's actual name, but she quickly regained her composure and finished. “Ms. Star, it's a pleasure. I'll just ring up your purchase and you're good to go.”

“Thank you,” Twilight replied as she levitated her purse out of her saddlebag.

“Alright, after discount it comes to… 360 bits.”

“I'm sorry, I thought you said three hundred and sixty…?”

As the three friends made their way towards the library by the light of the setting sun, Twilight couldn't imagine why Pinkie was as happy and chipper as she was. Twilight also couldn't imagine how she would be able to afford anything for weeks. Why didn't I just get something else? Why?!

“Aw, cheer up, Evey,” Pinkie chimed in as Twilight grumbled again. “I spent way more than that. Or I will have had spent way more than that on Friday.”

“Will have had? Pinkie, I don't think that's right.”

“I'll had to have?”

“What? No, you will. You just will spend more.”

“But it's already on my tab. Plus, Play Date had to order some stuff just for me. There's no way she'll let me not pay. So I already have to. So I have to in the past sense. I have had to have to.”

“I don't… ” Twilight trailed off.

“At least you're not still thinking about all the money you spent,” Rainbow pointed out.

“Thank you, Rainbow Dash. Oh, we're here.”

“OOH-OOH!” Pinkie exclaimed, hopping on the spot. “I wanna know what Rarity got you! Can I come in?”

“Rare got you something?” Rainbow asked. “Like, something sexy?”

“She'd probably say 'risqué.'” Pinkie noted, and she and Rainbow began to laugh.

Twilight opened the door and turned on the threshold to look at her friends from the doorway. “I'm kind of tired, actually. Maybe another time.”

“Gonna head straight to bed, huh?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“Yeah, it's been a long day. I'm just, uh… what are you smirking at?”

“Need to let off some steam, huh?”

“Dash.”

“Gonna get some use out of Rarity's gift?”

“NO!”

“Then why not let us hang out a bit?”

“Fine! Come on in!” Twilight shouted as she headed in, leaving the door ajar. “I'll make some tea. Then we can sit around and show off each others se-aaah, uh…”

“What?” Spike asked as Twilight gawked at him.

She looked at her friends, who were just poorly stifling laughter over Twilight's gaffe. “Yeah, Twi, what were you saying?” Rainbow managed between snickering.

“Never mind, Spike,” Twilight said with authority. “We'll be upstairs.” Before anyone could say anything else, Twilight promptly teleported herself and her two friends to the second story loft. “I hope you're both having a great time at my expense.”

“Aw, Twilight,” Pinkie replied soothingly, “don't be upset. We just want to have a little fun. You never open up about this sort of stuff.”

“Yeah,” Rainbow agreed. “I've even had Fluttershy tell me about her first time. Turns out she's way more assertive behind closed doors.”

Twilight regarded her friends critically as she considered the situation. Rainbow Dash had been very forthcoming and encouraging, sharing her own experiences with self made toys and accompanying Twilight in the sex shop. Pinkie, on the other hoof…

“Alright,” Twilight conceded with more mirth in her voice than she meant to let show, “I'll let you guys stay and see what Rarity got for me. We'll even talk about my sexual experiences, not that there's really much to say. However, Pinkie Pie…”

“Yes?”

“No more being coy. I want to hear all about this club.”

Pinkie giggled with excitement. “Of course, silly! Now that you're in, I can tell you all about it. But, where to start?! So, like I was saying earlier, ponies all over Equestria, from Las Pegasus to Manehattan, are members of the Club. Privacy is super-duper important, you can't go around talking about the Club or what members do when they get together. Don't let that scare you, though, being a member is really fun! Most of the parties and stuff tend to be sexual, but maybe not with actual sex going on, and sometimes members get together for stuff that doesn't have to do with sex at all, but even then they won't usually worry about talking about sex and other things you don't usually talk about in public since you're with other members, so it's fine, y'know?”

“Okay, I understand that much already. How does such a large club stay secret? How long has this been going on? Is there a headquarters or local chapters or some other kind of hierarchy?”

“Hmm, I don't really know how long the Club's been around. Rarity and I have have been members for a little more than a year now; we kind of alternate hosting parties, but we each have our own house rules. I guess the Club stays secret just 'cause the members don't tell anyone, and how else would anyone know to ask, right? I guess we're kind of–”

“Hang on a second, house rules?”

“Oh, whoops! I'm getting ahead of myself. The Club has some rules everyone has to follow. 'Don't tell non-members. Don't ask personal questions unless offered. Always use Club names at Club functions.' OH! And there's a really, really big one: 'Never, ever out a member.' Anypony who outs somepony will be kicked out and outed by the rest of the Club. That's a big deal, lots of ponies have funny ideas about what's appropriate and they'll hold somepony's private life against them.”

“So, house rules are just rules a host enforces on top of the general rules?”

“You got it!”

“So, who's in charge?”

“Whoever's the host, duh!”

“No, I mean, who came up with the general rules, who started the whole thing? How does the club enforce its rules?”

“O~oh,” Pinkie oohed with comprehension. “Nopony knows.”

Twilight just looked at Pinkie, expecting her to continue. After a moment, she asked, “What do you mean, 'nopony knows?' Somepony has to know.”

“Well, I'm sure somepony knows who made the rules, but nopony knows who that pony is either. The Club kinda just handles itself, members look after each other and deal with rule-breakers on their own, and when new members join and such, the local record keeper keeps a record and sends it to the others so Club members get to take part wherever they go.”

“Well, who's the Ponyville registrar?”

“Play Date!”

“The pony working at the seedy sex shop?” Twilight asked sounding thoroughly irritated.

*Giggle* “She doesn't just work there, silly. She owns the place and designs new toys. She's also a lot of fun at parties!”

“I'll bet,” Twilight grumbled before having a helpful idea. “Will she be at your party?”

“She's invited. So's Rarity. You should totally come too! There will be fun games like pin the tail on the donkey, only it's a dildo instead of a tail and party goers volunteer to be the donkey. Ooh-OOH and Twister, but you get to play with the other players while you're playing with them to try and make them go weak in the knees and fall down. OH! And ponyatas! It's like a piñata except, the piñata is the one wearing the blindfold and the players aren't swinging a bat; they're taking turns trying to make the piñata come!”

“Why would anypony want to be tied up and hung from the ceiling?!”

“They aren't tied up, silly, they're in a suspension set. It's like a swing set, only instead of a seat, it's a buck harness, and–”

“OOOkay, I don't really need to hear anymore,” Twilight interrupted as she cast a glance at Rainbow Dash, who seemed equally disconcerted.

“Yay! Now you'll show off your new toys!”

Twilight felt herself starting to blush a little. She was nervous, embarrassed and more than a little excited, (which was sort of unnerving in itself,) but she had promised. After a moments hesitation, she telekinetically pulled the box containing her vibrator and the strap-on Rarity had sent her from underneath her bed. She set the box and the bag holding her new purchase beside each other at the foot of bed and carefully laid out their contents on the bedspread.

“Well, you both saw what I bought earlier–”

“But you haven't opened it yet!”

“True,” Twilight conceded as she unboxed the marehood simulacrum for her friends to see before moving on. “Anyway, this is just a personal massager I've had for a while, and this is what Rarity got me.”

Pinkie could hardly suppress her giggles. “Oh boy! *snicker* That's a doozy! *titter* It totally suits you! I wonder why Rarity got you something like that. Heehee, she must want to share toys with you!”

Twilight began to feel her stomach knot up. She'd been trying not to think about Rarity's motivation, but now that she was, she didn't know if she liked the obvious implications or not. “I hadn't really thought about it. I don't know what to think about it.”

“Aw, don't worry. Rarity's just like a kid in a toy store whenever she's, well, in a toy store. She collects the really expensive kind of toys and likes to show off. This was just her way off getting your attention. So, where are the straps? I wanna see you try it on!”

“Uh, I'd rather not right now.”

“Aw c'mon, it doesn't have to go in. Can't you put it on for a minute, just so I can see how real it looks on you?”

“Actually, it has to go in. Not just for comfort, it stays in place with a spell.”

“Neat! What else does it do?”

Twilight knew her face had to be bright red by now. “It feels... really, uh, real.”

Pinkie giggled again before giving Twilight a knowing look and saying: “I bet it does, but what else does it do with magic?”

“Erm, that's what I meant. It uses a complex set of illusions and transfiguring magic to seem completely real. Even to, heh, to the w-wearer.”

Pinkie cocked her head and opened her mouth to ask something, but before she could Rainbow suddenly interjected, “WOAH, that toy was for you! You do have a dick – well kind of have a dick!”

Pinkie gasped, wide-eyed.

Seeing how shocked her friends were, Twilight began to hastily try to think of some kind of explanation or excuse. However, Pinkie wasn't even thinking about Twilight at this point.

“Oh. My. Celestia! Dashie!”

“What?!” the cyan pegasus asked turning an even paler blue for a moment as Pinkie shoved her face right up against Dash's.

“No. No-nononono! I forgot you were even here. You can't – I just, but Twilight! And the Club, and-and…” the party pony trailed off as though she were deflating.

Rainbow cast a look at Twilight, nonplussed, but Twilight understood immediately.

“You told me all of these secrets right in front of Rainbow Dash. Are you going to be in-”

“So much trouble! They'll never let me come to another Club party! No way I'll get to throw another one! Everyone is gonna be so mad!” Pinkie was practically sobbing at this point. “Please! Don't tell anyone I said anything! Dash!” Pinkie threw herself on the floor and wrapped her forelegs around Rainbow's. “Dashie! You're my friend! I bet you'd love to be in the Club, too!”

Rainbow extracted her hooves from Pinkie's grip and began to back away towards the door. “Uh, I don't think it's really my speed…”

“No! You've just got to! It'll be fun, I promise!” Pinkie eagerly assured while following Rainbow Dash.

“We'll talk about it later, Pinkie!” Rainbow claimed as she began to pick up the pace on her way out the door. “I have to, uh, do something… for the weather tomorrow morning, yeah! Put it off all day, need to do it before tomorrow!”

“Wait! I'll help! I'll do whatever you ask! I'll be your slave for a week – for a month! Dashie~!”

Twilight could only stare after her friends as they raced down the stairs and out into the night, leaving the door swinging in the gentle evening breeze. What have I gotten myself into, she thought, maybe Dash has the right idea.

As she pondered her predicament, Spike came from the kitchen and closed the door. Looking up at Twilight on the landing, with evident confusion on his face, he could only ask: “What happened?”

“It's… been a long, strange day. I'll tell you about it in the morning.”

Chapter3: Anticipation

As she gazed into her mirror, Twilight Sparkle was reflecting on more than just the glass before her. It was the morning of her third day back in Ponyville, and she was searching her memories of the prior day for some hint of what Rarity was planning. She had been to see her friend that morning, but the fashionista was hard at work and had asked Twilight to return later in the day. Most of the day was spent in the company of Applejack and Fluttershy, two friends Twilight was relieved to find had nothing to do with the strange club she'd been drawn into. The day had nearly gone by without anymore strange or uncomfortable moments, allowing Twilight to relax as she had hoped to upon returning home. However, mid-afternoon Twilight had to leave Fluttershy's cottage to reach the Carousel Boutique as Rarity concluded her business for the day.

Twilight arrived shortly before closing, and found no last-minute customers. Rarity was already reorganizing for the next day, and waved Twilight over. After a brief exchange, Twilight proceeded upstairs to wait for Rarity to complete a few tasks. Before long, Rarity came in with some freshly brewed herbal tea to share. Twilight felt a momentary twinge of regret for being so apprehensive about being alone with her friend again; in spite of their last conversation, she was certain Rarity had good intentions. Questionable ones, albeit, but good nonetheless.

“Thank you for being patient with me, Twilight.” Rarity began as she set the tea tray down. “I was expecting a rush today, and I wasn't disappointed.”

“I'm glad to see your business is doing well.”

“Mm, it's to do with the Club, dear,” Rarity explained as she poured their tea. “I carry some very alluring attire available only by special request. Which reminds me, Pinkie's little soiree tomorrow evening is going to be a masquerade. You should dress appropriately, would you like help putting together your ensemble?”

“I'm not yet sure if I'll attend. Why were you expecting–”

“Twilight Sparkle!” Rarity exclaimed in an admonishing tone. “You have just joined the Club and two of your dearest friends and fellow members are excited to see you there. The least you could do is make an appearance.”

Twilight was momentarily stunned before replying angrily, “You're right, I have just joined! Joined a club I knew nothing about, in which ponies can have crazy sex parties without anyone finding out! Nopony can tell me who's in charge, or who the members are, or even what the rules are going to be ahead of time! I came here today to try and make some sense out of this, not be chewed out by somepony I think of as a friend in spite of trying to draw me into this nymphomania!”

Rarity just looked at Twilight with an unreadable expression for a moment before clearing her throat and apologizing. “You've made a good point, as a friend I should be more forthcoming. If not about subjects which I am required to be discreet, then at least my own motivations. While there is little I could have said about the particulars before, I might have at least given you some idea. My greatest regret is not being there in person to give you a proper introduction to the Club; Pinkie can't have been the best pony for the job, but she was the only one available. Right now, going by what you've just said, I'm deeply concerned that she overlooked or misrepresented the way we conduct ourselves as members. What, exactly, did she say to you?”

Twilight recounted Pinkie Pie's explanations, choosing to omit Rainbow Dash's presence at the shop and library for the time being. She preferred to let Pinkie handle that presumably delicate situation.

“I believe I understand your frustration,” Rarity said. “Pinkie sees the Club, and it is the Club, as little more than an excuse for raunchy parties. It has the potential to be so much more, but I would prefer to explain what I mean tomorrow night, surrounded by other Club members. I should also mention that I asked Pinkie to change the plans for the party, insisting on a masquerade. While it's true that I received some extra business as a result; I had you in mind. I was hoping to make your introduction into the Club a soft one, so that your membership might go unnoticed for a time.”

“Why? Does it matter if other members know?”

“Oh, yes. I have a new world of opportunities to show you, Twilight. Opportunities for pleasure, profit, power… The Club can take you places, if you establish and maintain the proper connections. That will have to wait for tomorrow, however, as I have something in mind. For now…”

Twilight's stomach seemed to fill with butterflies and she felt herself grow hot as Rarity's gaze took on that alarmingly predatory quality again. She tensed up and searched for an excuse to leave, only to draw a mental blank. She glanced at the door as Rarity cast her eyes over Twilight's body, momentarily resting on her flank. As Rarity stood and approached Twilight, she also stood, backing away and stuttering.

“I-I should probably go. Get ready – I mean get an outfit ready. For – for… ”

“Shh. It's alright. Don't be nervous. I suppose you've already guessed that I have personal reasons for including you in all this. I can't deny that I've admired and even desired you. Your recent ascension has only increased that particular… urge.”

Upon saying this, Rarity's horn gently glowed with magical power. Twilight's eyes widened as she felt her tail being tugged upward and to her left, forcing her to turn in a small half-circle on the spot. She turned her head to look at her aggressive friend and tried to break the magical grip on her tail, only to lose her concentration immediately. Rarity had closed the distance between them and was already putting her tongue and magic to use, aggravating Twilight's already intense arousal.

“My, my, you certainly get excited quickly,” she teased in playfully cruel tones between running her tongue along the length of Twilight's sex. “I could just see it in your face when you saw how I looked at you. I could practically smell it, and I certainly can now. It's like the smell of fear and excitement, with a musky twinge of lust. Have you never done this before? Can it be that a little darling like you has never been sought after? I'll attend to all those unsatisfied needs of yours. Perhaps I can help you discover some new ones, too.”

“Th-the toy…?” Twilight moaned as Rarity magically tugged at her clit and created intense sensations of alternating cold, heat and tingling electricity.

“Mm, yes,” Rarity cooed. “I knew you would like it. I love to bring stallions and mares alike to a state of euphoric ecstasy, so I simply had to give you the capacity to experience all that I can do for you. I'm going to give you everything you ever wanted and never knew you needed before you had it. When I am done, you'll beg me for more, and more, and more. The princess will kneel before her queen, and shall not be left wanting – so long as she's obedient.”

Before Twilight could protest, or even form a coherent sentence, she felt a sensation she'd often imagined, but never expected to actually feel: Rarity penetrated Twilight with her horn and began to use her telekinetic magic to directly stimulate the lavender alicorn. She certainly hadn't expected it to feel this good, so much better than Rarity's previous teasing and so much better than in her fantasies.

In the present, Twilight shuddered warmly, then returned her attention to the mirror in front of her. Her face was obscured by the reddish-copper mask she wore, but she knew that she was blushing profusely underneath. Rarity had chosen the mask and dress she now wore, and Twilight had to admit that she looked good. More seductive than she was accustomed to, but good. The mask had an accessory that fit over her horn, with two small chains running from the tip to the edge of the mask on either side. It went nicely with the red dress, which hugged Twilight's body, especially her hips, tightly. The sleeves on her forelegs were embroidered with golden thread in the shape of flowering vines, the train covered her cutie mark and her wings and neck were hidden by a white, high-collared half-cape which draped loosely over the open back of the dress.

This is ridiculous, she thought as she took off the mask and set it on her dresser. I can't let myself be drawn into this, I should have turned Rarity down yesterday. Twilight removed the cape with a flourish as Rarity had shown her. Although, I could certainly make an entrance. She carefully removed and folded her new dress, placing it beside the mask. Ugh, how could I let her talk me into this? Do I really – can I really want this? She cast an accusatory glance at the artificial appendage resting on her bed, uncomfortable with the temptation and uncertainty that filled her when she thought of filling Rarity.

Twilight ran through the proposition in her head again: Come to the party, learn more about the club – the Club she reminded herself – and then Rarity will… let me… do anything I want. She felt hot, flustered, angry and silly all at once. I shouldn't have to play by her rules. Rarity didn't give me a good reason to wait for a proper explanation. I should have stopped her and demanded to know everything she had to tell me yesterday. Am I really this easy to manipulate? And with sex of all things?! I feel like I don't even know what's going on in my own head anymore. It isn't like this is a normal way to establish an intimate relationship, either. I don't know what to expect from Rarity at this point; is she just interested in being physical? Does she act so prim and proper to cover up this side of her, or is she only this way with me?

The rest of the morning passed as Twilight pondered her situation and consulted several books on relationships, psychology, sexuality and one very interesting volume containing an illustrated study of sexual practices and norms. Twilight was still “studying” as she ate her lunch in the library's modest kitchen when she heard a crash upstairs. She hastily shelved the book so that Spike wouldn't flip through it on his way to return it to its place, then rushed up to the second floor. She cracked open the door to her room and listened intently as she scanned the loft for signs of intrusion. At length, she carefully entered and called out, “Anyone here?”

“Under here,” came a familiar voice from under her bed. Twilight glanced over to her window and noticed it was open, and the books she had stacked on the desk beneath had toppled to the floor.

“Rainbow Dash,” Twilight sighed as she peered under the bed. “What are you doing here?”

“Hiding from Pinkie!” Rainbow exclaimed, poking her head out from underneath Twilight's bed. “She's been following me ever since we left here the other night! She acts like I have no choice but to sign up for that sex freak club. Er, no offense! I'm not judging or anything!”

Twilight certainly thought it sounded like Rainbow was judging. However, it occurred to her that Rainbow could provide some perspective without Twilight having to reveal any secrets. “Listen, I really won't be upset if you say anything bad about the Club or it's members, but I need to know what you think. Is it very strange that Rarity wants me to be a member and seems to think that I'll enjoy doing… intimate things with her and others?”

“Totally strange. I always had Rarity pegged as a prude. And again no offense, but you kinda struck me as the shy ever-virgin type, too. Pinkie kinda makes sense. I don't think Flutters or AJ know about all this, and they're pretty normal as far as relationships and sex go. At least, I think they are.”

“Yeah, I'm sure neither of them know about the Club. I asked them some discreet questions. Do you think I'm making a mistake, letting myself get involved in this?”

“Uh, maybe. To each, their own, I guess. I wouldn't go anywhere near that party, but Pinkie might just hog tie me, gift wrap me and use me as a ponyata if she finds me. So, can I hide out here for a while?”

“Are you really scared of her? I mean, Pinkie is weird and impossible to discourage sometimes, but she'd never hurt us or try to make us do something we didn't want to, right?”

“She won't make me, but she'll keep trying to convince me until she runs out of breath, which I'm pretty sure will happen about the same time as pigs start sprouting wings and getting coronations of their own.”

The two friends began laughing so hard that Twilight's sides hurt, and she had to wipe tears from her eyes when she could finally breathe evenly again. “Thanks, I needed a laugh. I'm sure Pinkie will calm down soon. If she doesn't, I'll talk to her. I'm pretty sure she's just afraid of somepony finding out and kicking her out of the Club. She should stop if you Pinkie Promise not to let anyone know she told you anything.”

“I already did! I also promised not to say anything about the stupid club to anypony at all, and not to go back to that sex shop. That's especially uncool; I wanted to get a toy that won't evaporate once I got paid this week.”

“Um, I'd offer to go for you, but I wouldn't know what to get.”

“Oh, that's easy! I picked something when we were there before, I just didn't have the bits at the time. If I give you the money, you'll really get it for me?”

Twilight considered it for a moment. “I suppose it wouldn't hurt. What did you want?”

Rainbow Dash suddenly blushed and looked away. Twilight assumed she was having second thoughts, but to her surprise, Rainbow looked right into her face and blurted it out: “DynaCharge Thundercloud-Powered Lightning Rod.” The pegasus looked away again and rubbed one of her forelegs with the other as she quickly added, “Medium sized. I'll get you the bits next week.”

“I didn't think this sort of thing embarrassed you.” Twilight commented as Rainbow recomposed herself.

“It doesn't usually. It's just – I don't know. DynaCharge has a reputation for making toys for freaky ponies. There's nothing wrong with being kinda kinky, I'm just a little shy about my own fetish.”

“But I don't even know what it is.”

“Well, the toy, y'know… Lightning Rod? It shocks. I kinda started to get used to it, working with thunderheads. Eventually… I sorta… liked it.”

“Oh, well, I'm sure that isn't such a weird fetish. You don't need to feel embarrassed.”

“Yeah, I guess… At least I'm not buying plastic pussies to stick my fake dick in.”

“Ha-ha, that's hilarious. Get out from under my bed.”

“Wait, I was just teasing! Please let me hang out a while; just until Pinkie has to start getting ready for her party tonight?” Rainbow looked up at Twilight pleadingly from under the edge of the comforter.

*Sigh* “All right.”

The rest of the afternoon alternated between moments of peace and irritation as Rainbow Dash switched back and forth between browsing various adventure stories similar to the Daring Do series and complaining to Twilight about how boring it was being cooped up in a library. Reminding her that she had begged to be allowed to stay finally got her to settle down a little before dusk.

“I should just get going anyway. Pinkie's probably getting ready by now.”

Twilight checked the clock again and realized that she needed to get ready as well. She waved goodbye as Rainbow flew out the window, then headed upstairs to get ready.

“Alright, what do I need to do first…?” she began, trailing off as she remembered that she had forgotten to make a checklist of everything she needed to do to get ready. “Oh no! I've got to write a checklist right away!”

The next half hour was devoted to committing a sequence of activities necessary before she could leave for the party to paper, double-checking it, revising it, double-checking it again and finally glancing at the clock to asses how much time she had for each activity. Twelve minutes, Twilight! You need to leave in twelve minutes, or you'll be late! It's okay, I can do this, I have time!

Twilight hurried into the bathroom, and with her humble assortment of beautification products began to dress her hair the way Rarity had shown her. She had a separate checklist of steps to follow, and desperately wished that there were some corners she could cut. Rarity hadn't mentioned any such shortcuts and so Twilight decided to meticulously carry out each and every instruction to the letter. She was delighted when she finished and found she had somehow done in six minutes what took eleven the day before. Efficient! What's next?

To save time, Twilight used her magic to multitask: shining her hooves, applying her mascara, placing and adjusting her mask and slipping into her dress all at the same time. As she lifted her cape off the floor where she had absentmindedly left it that morning, she heard a dreadful tearing noise. She stopped dead – with makeup products and the chain accessory floating comically still in front of her face. After a moment, she bit her lip, stepped off of the cape and lifted it in front of her.

I can't possibly wear this now, it nearly tore in two! Rarity is going to kill me for destroying this cape. I don't have time to get a replacement; I'm going to just have to leave it and hope Rarity can fix it later.

Twilight just barely managed to finish getting ready on time, levitating the toy Rarity had provided into her purse just as the time she had decided to leave came. She checked her checklist one last time just to be sure; Spike was in bed, her hair was done, makeup applied, dress presentable (minus a cape), the personalized invitation Pinkie had supplied was on hoof and everything she thought she would need for her “encounter” with Rarity was in her purse. Twilight took a deep breath and stepped out into the cool night.

Author's Note

A teensy bit more sexiness, lots of adorkableness, and Rainbow Dash hiding under a bed. I'm even threatening to move the plot along. This may have been the most fun chapter of the first four to write.

Yes, chapter four is done. No, I'm holding off on uploading it. I will endeavor to upload once a week, occasionally missing that mark due to college, procrastination, and other (ponyless) writing projects. I am ~~digging a hole~~ making a promise not to take longer than two weeks between uploads.

Chapter 4: The Party

Twilight approached the house addressed on Pinkie's invitation. It was rather large, and Twilight couldn't remember ever having been inside of it before or place an owner to the property. It didn't seem like Pinkie could afford it, or would need a home away from Sugar Cube Corner. Twilight could only assume it was being rented for the party specifically, or that the Club provided the property for hosting parties. She realized that she had become lost in thought and promptly stepped up to the door and knocked.

Of course I'm here early, Twilight thought as Pinkie (who was dressed in a frilly pink party dress and comical harlequin mask) let her in and she saw that only a few ponies besides Pinkie, Rarity and herself had arrived and were only engaged in small talk. Pinkie bounced away to get Twilight a drink and Rarity approached. Twilight hadn't known what Rarity would wear, and was enamored with her appearance. The little black dress would have been revealing if it weren't for the fact that going unclothed were the norm, and the gold and silver sun-and-moon mask – which resembled an amalgamation of the masks of Thalia and Melpomene, in addition to its reference to celestial bodies – was a stunning example of overstatement done right.

“Darling, most of the others will be arriving fashionably late, it seems. In fact, I was count-” Rarity's jaw dropped as she gaped at Twilight's bare shoulders and back, transfixed and horrified by the sight of her lavender wings. “What – but your cape?”

“It, er, tore. I couldn't wear it, so –”

Rarity threw herself over Twilight's side, hiding Twilight's wings with her own body. She was also making it difficult for Twilight to continue standing.

“Rarity,” Twilight groaned, “Is this really necessary?”

“Yes,” Rarity hissed in Twilight's ear, “and it's Elusive for the evening, remember. You must use pseudonyms tonight and –” Rarity looked nervously around the room and Twilight followed her eyes. Everypony there was staring at them. “Oh, dear. Whether or not they saw your wings, we've certainly got their attention now. Stay between me and the wall, I asked Berry to provide us with a private room, we're going there right now.”

Rarity awkwardly positioned Twilight behind her and the two of them quickly made their way around the room and down a hallway. As they slipped into a smallish room with a table and five seats, Rarity scowled at Twilight.

“What? It was an accident, it happened while I was getting ready to come here. I didn't have time to get a replacement!”

“Would it have still covered your wings?”

“I highly doubt it.”

Rarity's expression softened. “I suppose it can't be helped. Give it to me and I'll see what I can do before we have to return to the party.”

“I didn't bring it.”

Rarity's face twitched. “Excuse me,” she managed in an unusually high pitch. Then, she rushed from the room and Twilight heard her run upstairs. For a few minutes, Twilight listened to the sounds of Rarity dashing to and fro upstairs and more guests arriving – or more accurately, the sound of Pinkie enthusiastically greeting the newcomers. With each addition to the crowd assembling in the house, the sounds of Rarity's unseen task seemed to grow more frantic. At length, she returned with a white cape, looking haggard and anxious.

“I had to cannibalize the lining of the curtain on the four-poster upstairs. The fabric is nothing special – it won't catch the light as you move the way your silk cape would have. However, we make do and persevere. We must.”

As Rarity threw the cape over Twilight's shoulders and fastened a clasp in front of her neck, Twilight asked: “Why is it so important that nopony here know me? None of them can expose me –”

“Wrong. They can; they will simply risk exposure of their own. Keep in mind that you have more to lose than these ponies, and that anyone who has the same – or nearly the same – stake in their anonymity as you will not want to expose you. They will want to use you, and if you don't know who they are it will be difficult to stop them.”

Twilight was stunned. “What do you mean? Am I already in trouble? Should I just leave?”

“No! We mustn't consider retreat now, not now…” Rarity trailed off for a moment as she considered something. “I have invited three powerful ponies from the Canterlot chapter of the Club to attend this evening, specifically so I could introduce them to Evening Star. For them to come all the way to Ponyville, and to do so clandestinely no less, only for a – a no-show!”

Rarity seemed on the verge of panic again, until she closed her eyes, put her hoof over her chest and inhaled deeply. After a moment, she exhaled slowly as she brought her hoof away from her chest and re-opened her eyes. A quick and simple trick for calming nerves that Twilight knew well.

Rarity looked intensely at Twilight. “It's simply out of the question.”

“But, why do they want to meet me?”

“I promised them that Evening Star is a powerful pony worth knowing, and it's true. They just don't need to know that you are who you are.”

“Well, who are they?”

“I can't give you their real identities, Club rules. It would be rude of you to ask them without first giving yours, which you must not do. Mind, they may give theirs in the hopes that you will return the favor. It would be rude of you not to, but you won't if it comes to it. Better to be rude than foalish; their tactical mistake is your advantage.”

“You make it sound like these are enemies, not friends.”

“They are makers and breakers, Eve.” Rarity declared in a matter-of-fact tone. “Neither friend nor foe; they have the power to help you excel and achieve great things, or they can stymie you at each turn. Within the Club, they are known as Bell Weather, Polly Tessa and Agit Prop. That last pseudonym has a silent 't' and 'p' on the end of the first and last name, respectively.”

“What makes them so powerful? What could they possibly do to me outside of exposing me?”

“I can tell you that Bell Weather is the epitome of a trendsetter; the Canterlot elite clamor to emulate her on a regular basis. This effectively transforms Weather's idle whims and superfluous choices of simple things such as where to stop for a light lunch or which watchmaker she fancies into the kind of fads that determine which businesses thrive or whither. She uses her position to purposefully ruin some ponies, while discreetly favoring others.”

Twilight thought she detected a hint of bitterness, and wondered whether or not this Bell Weather had ever cost her friend business.

“Polly Tessa is a Canterlot politician, she sits in her stiff, high-backed seat at court day-in and day-out; arguing, flattering, bloviating… It's a wonder she hasn't talked herself to death. In any case, she's been playing that game a long time, and she's learned to make use of every opportunity to rub shoulders with giants, and then step on those shoulders to lift herself up. She's ruthless, calculating, frighteningly charismatic – at least frightening to those who know what she's really like. Simply put, she influences decisions with lasting effects for all of Equestria, and she does everything in her power to keep and expand her power.”

“How can such a pony have any sway under Princess Celestia? Surely, it isn't in the nations best interests!”

“It's never clear how such wretched ponies come to power. Perhaps they start out working in earnest and the need to do things improperly from time to time corrupts them. Else, they may hide their impropriety behind seemingly charitable actions that benefit them indirectly. I cannot say.

“I can, however, tell you a little about our third guest, Agit Prop. He is an artist in name, and an advertiser in practice. He creates propaganda disguised as art and entertainment in order to subtly alter the political atmosphere of Equestria. In other words, he provides the sugar with which the populace swallows the lies and deceit of his 'friends' and employers.”

“That's – it's awful! Why would I ever want to associate with these ponies? Why do you?”

“I do it because I caught their attention. I made a name for myself in Canterlot once, but my business did not take off as it might have, in spite of the influence of a powerful friend I made. You see, the three ponies I've just described to you are known in Club circles as the 'Club Elite.' They learned that I was a member of the Club, and let me know in no uncertain terms that they didn't like what I had to offer. I'm still not sure why. However, I learned who they were and eventually we came to an… understanding.”

Twilight was less sure of what to think than ever. Has Rarity been performing some unsavory favors for these Club Elite in exchange for opportunities to improve her business? Or even to save her boutique from going under? Why is she introducing me to them?!

Rarity looked Twilight in the eye and Twilight thought she saw a ferocious passion. Predatory, but not in the same way as she had looked at Twilight in private before.

“Here's where things change, though. We have a real opportunity to put a stop to some of their scheming. I'm on even ground with them, so they and I can't harm or hinder each other much, nor do they or I have any real incentive to help one another. You on the other hand, are in a position to make promises and threats anonymously–”

“Threats? Are you asking me to take part in some kind of cloak and dagger conspiracy?”

“In a manner of speaking. Nothing dangerous, I assure you. The point is, you can make promises during Club events and carry them out while acting as Princess. Ideally, without it being obvious that it was you. They don't know how to hurt you; I act as a buffer, informing you about them and keeping you safely anonymous.”

“However, you can't explicitly tell me who they are, otherwise they have grounds for having you kicked out of the Club and exposing you in the process?”

“Right. Telling you just enough to harm their interests is pushing the bounds of what we can get away with, but they won't move against me as long as the threat of you retaliating keeps them at bay. Besides, we can make use of their connections to help ourselves. My business can grow and you can push for reform in court that will actually help Equestrian citizens.”

“This seems like an awfully big risk. Also, why are we taking part in Canterlonian political conspiracies in the middle of a sex club orgy!?”

“Because the Club provides an excellent cover, combined with opportunities for fun. On that note, I anticipate that our guests of 'honor' will be late. Shall we partake of Berry's whimsically perverted merrymaking in the meantime?”

Twilight was exasperated with Rarity. “How can you suggest that? You've just told me that the whole reason for involving me in all this was to help you with some underhooved political scheme involving three of the most atrocious ponies I've ever heard of. If I do or say the wrong, thing they could potentially harm me or our friends to try and muscle me into helping them! Not to mention you!”

“Darling, you mustn't worry about me. I-”

“I'm not worried about what they'll do to you; you already deal with them, apparently. I mean you manipulated me into coming here, and I-I…” Twilight took a moment to regain her composure. “I thought you had some sort of – I don't know – romantic feelings for me. I have no idea what, if anything, you actually want from me other than help with those Club Elite.”

Rarity looked hurt for a moment, before casting her eyes down to her hooves. “I suppose I haven't been a very good friend to you. I admit I intentionally left you in the dark concerning my plans; I'm sorry I wasn't more straightforward.” Rarity looked up and met Twilight's gaze with determination. “However, you must eventually learn to play politics if you are to take your position as Princess and shape the future of Equestria. As for my personal interest in you... How can I put this delicately?”

Rarity stepped forward and placed a hoof on Twilight's chest.

“You are one of my closest, dearest friends. I had hoped that you would let me pleasure you and receive pleasure from you in turn, but I am not trying to pursue a romantic relationship with you. The truth is, I have not been in a sexually intimate relationship in some time, and as far as I can tell you never have. It may seem unorthodox, but I wanted us to be intimate while remaining friends, and perhaps agree to be exclusive with one another until one or both of us finds a very special somepony.”

Twilight felt hot, and her face flushed. There it was: Rarity wanted Twilight, but not as lovers, or rather, as lovers in a strictly carnal sense.

“I don't know how I feel about that. I can't deny I'm attracted to you, or that what we did before…” Twilight broke eye contact for a moment before resolving to continue. “I certainly enjoyed that, but I'm not sure if this is what I want. I always assumed that I'd find somepony to fall in love with. Somepony whom I would just know I wanted to, er, give myself to. That must sound very naïve.”

“Not at all, it's very romantic, albeit a bit idealistic. Then again, who doesn't fantasize when it comes to love? All I'm asking is that you give this a chance. Perhaps you'll have an easier time deciding once we've relaxed a bit. We can enjoy the festivities or just stay in here for the time being…”

Rarity let her words hang in the air as Twilight considered what she wanted. Her curiosity eventually got the best of her.

“Well, I may as well see what a Club party is like,” she said sheepishly.

“That's the spirit, darling!” Rarity encouraged as she led Twilight back to the front of the house. “Bear in mind that Berry's house rules lean towards exhibitionism, group sex, sex games and general silliness. Simply put, everypony will effectively be on display for each others benefit. When I host an event, it is generally more reserved: couples and small groups excuse themselves to private rooms while the majority of guests mingle in the common area, discussing anything and everything that may or may not be considered 'polite conversation' outside of Club functions. Other hosts will certainly have their own distinct tendencies.”

“So, I shouldn't consider Pink – I mean, Berry's party as representative of Club parties as a whole.”

“Some Club functions really aren't even parties at all.”

At this point the two mares emerged from the back hall and found the ponies in attendance gathered around a makeshift stage on the hearth. They were all watching as a powder blue pony wearing a tuxedo top, fishnet leggings on her hind legs, a top hat and a domino mask stepped up on the stage.

“It can't be…” Twilight muttered as she strained her neck to try and see the mare's barely obscured Cutie Mark.

“Gather 'round merrymakers! The Blue and Sensual Trisha shall dazzle you with feats of risqué magic and sultry sensationalism!”

“It is,” Rarity stated in a matter-of-fact tone.

“To begin, I shall need a volunteer. You!” the showmare shouted as she thrust one of her hooves toward a stallion near the front. “Come and bask in the glory of the stage!”

The burgundy stallion climbed up and smiled bashfully at the crowd.

“Now, behold as I tame his treacherous snake without the use of hooves or magic!” 'Trisha' promptly dove under her new assistant and placed her lips against the sheath of his dormant cock, kissing and licking with shameless enthusiasm. After a moment, his dick began to harden and she settled into a rhythm, rocking back and forth on her haunches as she noisily sucked and swallowed on his growing flesh. This continued for nearly a minute before she brought her lips down to the base of the engorged stallionhood, making lusty noises as she deep-throated him. Finally she pulled away quickly, making a satisfying popping noise with her lips as the flared head left her mouth.

“Ta-da!” she exclaimed breathily breaking a thin trail of saliva hanging from her lips and his cock. “The beast is now under The Blue and Sensual Trisha's spell, giving her its rapt, undivided attention! For her next trick, Trisha shall make this monster disappear!”

Twilight watched as Trixie got the stallion to lay on his back and promptly straddled him. Once they were both in position she turned out to the audience and gave a disclaimer: “This next bit isn't for the faint of heart; Trisha may begin speaking in tongues.” Without further delay, she sank onto him in one fluid motion. Upon being fully engulfed her volunteer began to buck wildly – eliciting loud, throaty moans from Trixie.

“Having fun, Evey?”

Twilight was transfixed by the brazen display of passionate sex punctuated by gasps, moans, and cat-calls.

“Eve? Evening Star? Hello~?”

A pink hoof waved in front of her face, demanding her attention.

“Huh? Oh, Berry!”

“Enjoying the show?”

“Er, yes. I didn't know Trix-”

“Sh!”

“Oh, right, um, what was her Club name again?”

“You almost had it. You just needed a 'sh' instead of an 'ecks' – Trisha!”

“I didn't know Trisha did… this sort of thing,” Twilight said as she gestured to the stage.

“Yep! She's very popular at these parties. I bet her magic show would be more fun if she treated her volunteers this nice instead of trying to show them up.”

“I'm not certain being this nice in public would go over well,” Rarity interjected. “Besides, I had hoped you would have prepared more interactive entertainment for this evening.”

“OH BOY! You never wanna do fun stuff with everypony else, Elusive! Don't you worry, I'll start up some games right away!” With that, Pinkie rushed off to get the other ponies.

“I may have just made a small mistake.”

“Why?” Twilight asked. “I thought you wanted us to join the others.”

“I had intended for you to observe, as I typically do, rather than immediately jump in.”

“I admit I'm a bit anxious, but what's the worst that could happen?”

“Fair enough, as long as she doesn't expect us to play-”

“TIME FOR TWISTER!” Pinkie exclaimed for the whole neighborhood to hear.

“This is bad.”

“My cape!” Twilight nearly choked on the words, thinking of what would happen if her cape were twisted or torn off in the middle of the crowd. Purple alicorns are not inconspicuous.

“Don't fret, we'll just tell Berry that we prefer to sit out-”

“C'mon, we're starting!” Pinkie shouted as she pulled her friends into the middle of a small crowd gathered around a colourfully dotted mat. She spun a wheel and proclaimed that “Right forehoof on yellow!” was the first move.

Amidst the sudden movement of the party-goers, Twilight was helpless to remove herself from the throng of ponies. Once the movement stopped, she found she had managed to actually step on a yellow circle. Realizing she should probably quit while she was ahead, she turned to Rarity and asked, “Can't we just stop playing and-?”

“Left backhoof – red!”

“Unfortunately, I think not,” Rarity replied as the group began to twist around itself again. “I don't see how we could possibly get away before the crowd thins. Keep in mind, if you lose or quit Berry will have you spin the 'penalty' wheel.”

“Penalty?”

“Sexual favors for the winner, spanking, that sort of thing.”

“Tail – green!”

“Great,” Twilight grumbled as she half knelt and stretched her tail to one side. “I'm so looking forward to tha-WOAH! A~h!”

Between maintaining her unusual stance and doing her best to keep her cape in place with magic, Twilight was already straining. She wasn't able to respond in time, as she felt another pony nosing under the hem of her dress. The sensation of this unknown mare's tongue lazily making its way up the back of her thigh didn't help.

“O~h, Celestia, that's – that's not what I need right now.”

“Someone's getting fresh with you?”

“Her tongue is inching its way across my backside.”

“She's probably off-balance.”

“Right forehoof – red!”

Just as Pinkie called out the new move, Twilight bumped the mare behind her with her hip, sending two ponies to the floor. She caught herself before toppling over as well and found a red circle to plant her hoof on.

“Grape Shot and The Pink Avenger are out of the game!” Pinkie announced. “They must take their place beside the Wheel of Really Fun Punishments!”

“That doesn't sound very ominous,” Twilight observed. “I suppose most ponies don't mind spinning it, do they?”

“No, not generally,” Rarity conceded, “but some of the punishments aren't fun at all. Berry probably explained the house rules while we were sorting out your cape, and that's when she would have told us which punishments are on the wheel this evening.”

“Muzzle – blue!”

“This is going to make finding dots difficult.”

Rarity was absolutely right, with their noses to the floor several ponies weren't quick enough to stay in the game over the next few turns, Rarity herself included. Twilight eventually found herself with her forehooves crossed, one backhoof under her belly, the other stretched out behind her and her tail wrapped around her flank to touch a dot out to her side. On the plus side, it seemed like there weren't many ponies left in the game, since she hadn't been covertly licked or tickled for two turns in a row.

“Muzzle – yellow!”

Twilight lifted her face and looked for an unoccupied dot, she found one that would force her stretch just a little more… and she fell on top of the only other pony still playing.

“That's it!” Pinkie exclaimed. “Evening Star and The Blue and Sensual Trisha are the winners!”

“Huh, I thought you were on stage.” Twilight panted, relieved to finally relax her limbs.

“Cherry-Berry Crumble insisted that I join, interrupting my show just before the explosive climax,” Trixie grumbled, “and I'm not talking about fireworks.”

“C'mon, girls, the others are gonna spin the wheel!” Pinkie giddily reminded them. “Depending on what they get, you get to pick their Funishments!”

Twilight allowed Trixie to claim all of the ponies who were compelled to please the winner, and dutifully spanked a couple of them as well, albeit not hard. After a few minutes, Rarity stepped up.

“Yay! Elusive's turn!” Pinkie declared as she hopped up and down. “You haven't spun the wheel or even played a game since the last Hearts and Hooves when you got the Ponyata Punishment!”

Twilight could see Rarity visibly shudder. “Yes, well,” she remarked, “I found the, ah, buck harness uncomfortable.” Rarity gripped a rung on the wheel with her magic and forcefully spun it. As it clicked away everyone watched intently, waiting for it to slow to a stop. It finally began to crawl, and seemed to be stopping as the arrow pressed against the rung separating 'Winner's Choice!' from '¡Ponyata!' Rarity closed her eyes and tensed up. The wheel came to a halt.

“Winner's Choice!” Pinkie declared.

“Thank Celestia,” Rarity murmured.

“I'll be taking this one,” Twilight said as she stepped past Trixie.

“What's her funishment gonna be, Evey?” Pinkie asked.

“She'll find out later, after we leave the party.”

Rarity met Twilight's gaze and licked her lips. “Looking forward to it.”

“What a romantic exchange,” a gray-coated unicorn said flatly. He had a short, wavy, maroon mane and wore a navy blue pea-coat and black masquerade mask.

“Oh? But you sound so bored,” replied a thick-set, mauve mare with white, well-kept hair that nearly covered an unusually stubby horn. She wore a pale purple dress and white opera mask.

“Agit is al~ways bored. Elu~sive, my dear, how a~re you?” asked another mare, with a sky-blue coat and golden locks the colour of sunshine. Her pale green summer dress had an open back to allow her wings to move freely. She wore no mask.

“Oh, Bell, I've never been better. I must say, you look radiant as ever. Fearless too, considering…” Rarity gestured around them as she trailed off.

“Haha~haha, are you kidding?” Bell Weather asked obnoxiously. “I lo~ve the attention; I'd have come a~ll the way here without my mask, except the idea seems to make my friends nervous. I simply forgot the silly thing in the coach from the train station.”

“Well,” Polly Tessa interjected, “let it never be said that you aren't a shining example of the value of indiscretion.”

“Let's not dwindle on small talk,” Agit Prop said impatiently.

“I think you mean 'dawdle',” Twilight corrected.

“I take liberties with words.”

“I'm…” Twilight struggled to form a response. “That's not an excuse for using the wrong word.”

“I didn't use the wrong word,” he said with a perfectly straight face. “I only use the words I mean to use, sometimes I just use words to mean something other than they normally do.”

Twilight began to argue her point again when Polly Tessa cut her off. “Artistic liberties are, of course, to be expected of an accomplished lyricist. I am of the opinion that Agit's visionary use of words contributes to the enrichment of our language.”

Twilight could only gape until Rarity caught her eye and silently indicated to just let it go. Pinkie Pie bounded up to the group, and Twilight was relieved at the brief reprieve from having to talk to ponies that neither understood nor cared to understand the words they use.

“Hello~!” Pinkie sang to the newcomers, “I'm sorry I didn't greet you when you came in, I was handing out funishments. I've just finished now, and it's so super great you three could make it! Are you ready to have some fun?”

“Haha~haha! I-I wouldn't exactly call, er, this–” Bell chided as she gestured at the guests, “my sort of crowd. Thanks for the laugh, though.”

“Anytime!” Pinkie said in a forced cheerful tone. “I just love to make ponies laugh.”

Polly stepped towards Rarity, completely ignoring Pinkie. “Let's cut right to the heart of the matter. Elusive, you've invited us here to meet and greet with someone important. Isn't it about time for proper introductions?”

“Yes, of course.” Rarity answered. “Please, follow me to a room where we can speak privately.”

Twilight and the Club Elite began to follow Rarity in the direction of the back hall. Pinkie subtly placed her hoof against Twilight's back leg, causing her to pause and look back at Pinkie. As the Club Elite passed in front of Twilight, Pinkie sidled up beside her and whispered in her ear.

“They aren't nice at all. Bell is a bully, Agit thinks he's better than everypony else, and Polly will pretend to be your friend. I thought that she was my friend for over a month; then, after she figured out everything about Elusive that she could from me, I didn't hear from her again until after I found out what they'd done to her business.”

Twilight started to ask about Rarity's business in Canterlot, but Pinkie cut her off with a quick “zip it” gesture. Pinkie then turned back to the party and loudly continued her host duties, leaving Twilight to follow the others into the back room.

Twilight was seated beside Rarity, near the door. Agit Prop was to Twilight's right, Bell Wheather to Rarity's left, and Polly Tessa between them. Agit had a strange expression as though he were simultaneously bored, bemused and mentally miles away. Bell was tapping her hooves – seemingly out of impatience, until Twilight realized she was tapping to a beat while slightly swaying and nodding her head in time. Polly, on the other hand was focused and alert. Unnervingly, she was looking directly at Twilight, and she made and held eye contact once Twilight noticed.

That's... creepy, the young princess thought to herself just before she broke eye contact.

“Hum-hm.”

Twilight looked back at Polly Tessa, whose gaze was now fixed on Rarity. The purple-pink politician pony now had a small smirk on her broad face.

Did she just...?

Before Twilight could work out if Polly had laughed or simply cleared her throat, Agit spoke. This seemed to surprise everypony else in the room.

“I don't see what's so special about this Evening Star,” he declared derisively. “She's isn't somepony. Not even anypony, just a nopony. I asked around, she doesn't even exist.”

“Excuse me?” Twilight blurted out.

“Hech-um.” Polly cleared her throat to gather attention.

“Igno~re him,” Bell cut Polly off. “He's just annoyed that nopony could tell him who you are befo~re we came here.”

Polly shot her a look like ice and smiled sickly-sweet at her. “My dear, dear Bell,” she intoned with a sugary voice that was as pleasing to the ear as having syrup poured into it. “What Agit was saying is that it seems our new acquaintance has only just joined The Club and hasn't made any friends yet.” Polly turned to look at Rarity, “However, that is the very reason you've invited us, isn't it Elusive? To help your friend make some new friends?”

“Oh, she doesn't need help with that,” Rarity quipped. “Actually, I thought it would be a shame if none of you had a chance to meet her. She'll be making waves in Canterlot soon enough. It can be awfully jarring, getting blindsided by somepony powerful you never even knew was out there,” she added bitterly.

“I'm afraid I can't relate, Elusive. Of course, I'd find it just terrible if your dear friend were to suffer such misfortune.” Polly's voice was thick with mock sympathy. “To that end, I propose a little test, just to see if she's as good at making friends as you say.”

“What sort of test?” Twilight asked apprehensively. “It had better not be something inappropriate.”

“Hum-hm!” Polly laughed with her hoof over her mouth. “Now, now, Evening Star, we mustn't let unsavory surroundings or… crude company color our thoughts so. No, no, no. I want you to show me that you can make waves as Elusive put it, let alone ride them in the first place.”

“You're proposing that she perform a political favor for you?” Rarity questioned.

“Yes. Let me explain: There is a special committee in Canterlot that neither of you may have heard of.”

“All this talk of committees and surfing,” Agit Prop complained. “As if doing things has anything to do with whether or not a pony is really somepony. What I want to know is, who has she got on hoof? Connectivity is essential to creativity, you know.”

“Quite right, Agit!”

“What?” Twilight and Bell blurted out in unison before looking at each other with surprise.

“It's simple, really,” Polly explained. “We do not shape the world, we shape the ponies living in our world. This is the essence of politics and art, alike.”

Twilight was beginning to see why Polly kept Agit around. His idiosyncrasies are easy to reshape or contextualize into something more eloquent that sounds profound because an “artist” supposedly said it.

“Though Agit's artistic temperament may leave no patience for bureaucracy, he has described the underlying point of my test. You see, I know about this council because I have friends on that council. I will help them correspond with you, through The Club. What I want you to do is obtain support for the bill they are writing, and help it pass the Parliament vote in a very short time.”

“What counts as very short?” Twilight asked.

“Oh, let's see if you can help us break the record for the quickest pass on a bill following it's introduction to the Court. Parliament will reconvene at the start of next month so…”

“The record..!” Rarity exclaimed. “The bill would have to pass within two days of being brought to the floor in Parliament. I don't think that's possible.”

Polly Tessa smiled slowly at Rarity, seemingly enjoying her incredulous outburst. Bell Weather and Agit Prop were both paying attention now and also seemed amused. Twilight suddenly felt that she and Rarity were being drawn into a scheme.

“Actually, there is already a plan in the works to make that happen. The new bill will hit the floor on the first of the month and it will be called to a vote the third; the absolute soonest it possibly can. I have confidence that the bill can and will pass. The only question is: How much support can we drum up in a couple days?”

“Ludicrous...” Rarity said dismissively as she shook her head. “That isn't even enough time...”

Bell completed the thought, “For a~nypony to read the bill? Why would they want to? A committee wrote it; that's good enough. As long as the bill is popular, they'll vote for it.”

“I suppose I'm just meant to blindly start convincing ponies that this bill is going to be worth voting for, without being able to tell them what's in it?” Twilight wondered.

Polly gave her most disarming smile and cocked her head just slightly. “Of course not, my dear Evening Star. I'll see to it that you have everything you think you need, when you need it. Just one minor stipulation: you mustn't tell a single pony about the bill before it's official announcement. You'll have two days to gather support. I'm facing those same odds, so it's quite fair.”

Twilight thought carefully, I can probably appear in Court in person and address the Parliament on the second day of Court. I just have to make the Club Elite and their little committee believe that Evening Star “convinced” Princess Twilight Sparkle to vouch for the bill. Of course, I can't take a risk like that without knowing what the bill contains...

“I'll need a copy of the bill as soon as possible,” the incognito alicorn demanded. “A final draft, nothing short of what the Parliament will actually vote into law.” With any luck, once the bill passes Parliament and moves on to Royal Review, Princess Celestia will take her time and catch anything amiss.

“You may consider it done,” Polly said, seemingly satisfied. “Bell Weather will bring it to Elusive who, in turn, I assume can pass it on to you.”

“Of course,” Rarity stated simply.

Bell let out an exaggerated sigh. “Can we finally leave and find something fun to do?”

“Actually,” Rarity interjected, “I have to ask, what does passing a bill in record time have to do with a socialite or an artist? Normally I expect the two of you to help garner public support for Polly's politics.”

Polly Tessa seemed taken aback at Rarity's query. She was so flustered that she couldn't form a proper response, “That's – it's not your, I mean, you shouldn't even… ask.”

Rarity looked impishly at her adversary and dryly remarked, “It's up to them if they want to answer such a question or not. It's clear that you accepted my invitation with this proposal in mind, and you could have come alone to give it. There are no malls or crowds of paparazzi for Bell to lavish in; there are no museums or galleries for Agit to scoff at. I can only assume they are equally interested in helping your… friends in the committee.”

“I wanted to go to the local spa but Polly said no when we got here, can you believe that?”

“An artist thinks outside of the boundaries of common perception by removing himself from the boundaries of common culture. There is so little culture or perception in this backwater town that I could practically drown in my own lack of thought.”

Those are the worst excuses I've ever heard. Also, I'm pretty sure Agit Prop just called himself empty-headed. Twilight had to bite her cheek to stop herself from laughing.

“Hm, I suppose I shouldn't have expected differently,” Rarity conceded. “Polly, what can Eve and I expect as compensation for acting as your representatives?”

“Well, I don't expect you to trouble yourself for my sake, dear,” Polly remarked discouragingly. “Eve on the other hand may expect introductions to other associates of mine and… a favor.”

Twilight couldn't work out what she meant. “A favor?”

“A favor. Take your time with it. Be sure you really need it,” Polly cautioned darkly. “That's assuming the bill passes and that you were helpful in making that happen.”

Twilight didn't have a chance to ask for an explanation before Polly abruptly declared the meet and greet over. The stout mare ushered her cohorts out quickly and Twilight and Rarity could only watch them leave.

“Good night!” Pinkie called after them as they vanished into the dark night. “Hope you had a good time! Please come again!” Pinkie shut the door and muttered to herself before turning to Twilight and Rarity. Her eyes were alight with curiosity and her voice cut with a bitterness Twilight didn't think Pinkie was capable of. “So, why were they here?”

“They were here because one does well to keep their enemies close,” Rarity said harshly. Then sensing that Pinkie was upset she added, “I'm sorry to have invited them during one of your parties. I'd been hearing whispers that they've been planning something and I needed to know if it was true. They have foalishly involved us in their latest scheme.”

Pinkie didn't say anything for a long moment; especially long for Pinkie. “I hope you know what you're doing. Don't get Evey in trouble.”

As Pinkie – seemingly cheerful again – returned to the party, Rarity prevented Twilight from following and scanned the crowd.

“Don't worry about Berry, she's just concerned. Right now we need to find Play Date.” Then she turned her full attention to Twilight. “How are you holding up, darling?”

“I think I'm OK. I can't really tell how well that went. I didn't learn anything useful about them, I'm about to try to help them pass some legislation that will surely benefit them in some way, and I'm afraid I won't be able to keep them guessing at who I am for very long. Actually, I take it back, I'm pretty sure tonight went badly.”

Rarity smiled as though she and Twilight were both privy to some in-joke before looking back at the party guests. “No worries, darling, it went much better than you think. Why do you suppose I showed you how to do your hair, despite very few other ponies in attendance having bothered? Or why I gave you a mask that covers your horn?”

Twilight only had to consider the question for a few seconds. “So my coat would be completely hidden. They don't know I'm purple, but I saw their coat colors. The stripe in my mane is less obvious too.”

“Indeed, they will be far easier to pick out. Bell was entirely shameless. She always is. I still can't tell you who she is, but now that you've seen her I'm sure you know.”

“Actually, no.”

Rarity turned to look at Twilight, surprise evident on her face. “Truly? I'll have to point you in the direction of a periodical reporting on her many scandals and exploits. Oh, look there!” Rarity pointed out Play Date near the snack bar. “We need to speak with her urgently.” Twilight followed Rarity closely as they weaved their way past promiscuous party-goers.

“Another thing,” Rarity continued. “Polly was careless in telling you about this committee and it's new bill. With prior knowledge of the bill and it's authors, we can uncover her latest scheme and undermine it. This will also help you to identify her.”

“I don't understand how this will help us stop them.”

“I may suffer some indignation at their hooves before this is done, but hopefully your identity will remain a mystery to the Club Elite and you can anonymously uncover evidence of their corruption. We can hold that over their heads in order to reign in their bad politics and force some decent behavior out of them. If push comes to shove, we can show Polly for the vile, manipulative witch she is, and have her removed from her position in Canterlot Court.”

“Well, is she a member of Parliament, or from one of the Noble Houses?”

“I can't say, and shush. Let's not discuss this in front of Play Date.”

Now that Twilight wasn't wearing dark sunglasses and could see the local Club registrar in a better lit environment that wasn't completely full of sex toys, she noticed Play Date's unusual Cutie Mark: a pink Hearts & Hooves heart that appeared to be melting. It was oddly provocative.

“Ms. Elusive, Ms. Star,” Play Date greeted them formally. “How are you enjoying your membership with The Club thus far?”

Twilight was tempted to ask Play Date if clandestine meetings and corrupt politics were typical aspects of Club membership, but decided against it. “I'm having fun, but I don't think I have a very good idea of what the Club is like yet. For one thing, what can you tell me about what registrars like yourself actually do?”

“Other than keep records and manage accounts?” Play Date thought aloud. “Well, we make arrangements for Club members to host events in reserved venues, handle Club mail, enforce Club rules–”

“The registrars enforce the rules?”

“Indirectly,” Play Date said reticently.

“As much as I'd like to let Eve ask you about everything she's been wondering about,” Rarity interrupted, “we don't have the time. I actually just came over to ask if we could make an appointment to meet with you tomorrow morning?”

“On official business? For what purpose?”

“Managing our accounts.”

“Oh sure, hon, doing a joint thing?”

“We may, I'll discuss the particulars with you in the morning. Early is best.”

“Come around when I open shop and we'll take care of it. Anything else?”

Rarity hooked her hoof around Twilight's leg and gently tugged as she said, “No, we've got to be going.”

Twilight was a little disappointed not to ask Play Date more about the Club, but allowed Rarity to walk her towards the door. Once they were out of earshot she asked, “Why are you in such a hurry?”

“I want you all to myself for the rest of the evening,” Rarity purred coquettishly. “We'll not have all night, unless you want to stay up till dawn.”

Twilight had forgotten Rarity's promise. After everything that happened tonight, do I still want to do this? The rising heat in her loins was answer enough, though Twilight couldn't shake her lingering doubts. Is it a good idea to be this intimate with one of my friends? What if it turns ugly? Can we remain friends? Can I really be satisfied with another mare? I always thought I was straight. Are we going to hide it from ponies that aren't in the Club?

Her thoughts were disrupted by a sudden tickling sensation that traced up her neck, under her chin, and across her face. The tip of Rarity's tail flicked across her nose, drawing her attention to the way Rarity's ass swayed as she walked out the door.

“Coming?” the seductive unicorn asked.

Twilight moved to follow, but was distracted when she heard Pinkie shout, “IT'S PONYATA TIME!” She slowed and looked back to see a pony laying in a swing like harness hanging from the ceiling. The mare was enveloped entirely in latex, only the space between her legs was visible, but the ponyata's privates were facing the other way. Even the color of the pony's tail was obscured by what looked like rainbow colored streamers braided into it. Twilight felt like she was about to make a connection of some kind, or remember something important, when Rarity wrapped her tail around Twilight's neck and pulled her out into the cool night.

Chapter 5: Urgency

During the party, it had gotten much colder outside. Twilight's and Rarity's breath visibly clung to the frigid air in front of them. They trotted quickly towards Rarity's home, pressed against one another more tightly than two ponies in a six-legged-race. Upon reaching the Carousel Boutique, and being let in once Rarity fished her keys from her bag, Twilight was disappointed to find it was hardly any warmer inside.

“W-w-why is it s-so cold?” she managed between chattering teeth as she set aside her purse and mask. “It shouldn't be this c-cold in Summer!”

“Well, I suppose the weather ponies could give you a good reason, but knowing why doesn't do a thing to make one more comfortable,” Rarity pointed out. “Come upstairs with me, I'm sure we can find some way to get warm.”

Twilight felt another pang of doubt, but her desire was stronger than her misgivings. She followed Rarity to the bedroom and began to speak, but Twilight had barely opened her mouth before Rarity pressed her lips to Twilight's and began exploring the alicorn's mouth with her tongue. Twilight was shocked but pleased, and began to swirl her own tongue around Rarity's, closed her eyes, leaned into the kiss and moaned quietly. After a long moment, Rarity broke the kiss and looked into Twilight's eyes with a familiar predatory passion.

“I can't wait another moment,” she said breathlessly, “I simply must have you.”

Rarity practically tore the hastily fashioned cape from Twilight's shoulders and began kissing and biting her exposed neck with fervid haste. She proceeded to tug at the sleeves of the dress with her hooves, while magically pulling on the train.

“Rarity!” Twilight gasped, “Y-you'll stretch it out.”

The unicorn pulled away just long enough to look Twilight in the eye and say, “Frankly, darling, I don't give a damn.” Just a moment later, Rarity had stripped Twilight bare and began pushing her towards the bed.

“Wait! At least let me help you out of your dress too.”

Rarity became more subdued as she allowed her friend to help her slip out of her own garment. For a long moment they stood there, cold forgotten, passionately kissing and stroking one another. Twilight shuddered suddenly, unable to tell if it was the cool air or excitement that caused her spasm, and drew back from her alabaster colored lover to climb into the bed. As she began to slip under the sheets, Rarity tugged playfully on her tail. Twilight adjusted her position to afford Rarity a better view.

“Mmm, we are ready, aren't we?”

“Whenever you are.”

Rarity laid on the bed beside Twilight with their faces by each others loins and nosed her way between the purple pony's thighs. She spread her legs as she began to lap at Twilight's pussy to let her friend know she was eager for the same. Twilight began methodically stimulating the fashionista, following the advice of a book written for inexperienced lovers, by spelling out phrases such as “I love you” with her tongue. It seemed to be working, since Rarity responded with little, contended noises and pressed her legs around Twilight's face. Before long, Rarity began to flick her tongue across Twilight's clit every few licks, and occasionally suckle on the sweet spot as well.

Twilight was finding it increasingly difficult to focus, and started copying Rarity's ministrations. She settled into a rhythm of sucking and licking, allowing her body to work mechanically as she lost herself in pleasure. She was jolted from her reverie when Rarity began to nibble on her clit and labia, creating far more intense feelings which bordered on pain.

Her head reared back involuntarily as she cried out, “AH, yes! O~h, Rarity!” Twilight wrapped her legs around Rarity's head and squeezed as she came. “Don't stop! UHN, CELESTIA'S SUN, that's good! Nuh, huh, aah...”

After a moment, Twilight's body relaxed and she let go of Rarity as she rolled onto her back. She breathed heavily, stared unseeing at the canopy above the bed, and relished in the warm tingly feelings rippling across her body. Rarity sat up and looked down at her blissed-out friend. “I hope you've got more energy than that, darling. I'm only getting started... speaking of,” Rarity laid back against her pillows and spread her hind legs again, “you won't leave me so close, will you?”

Twilight lifted her still swimming head and crawled over to her lover. She began slowly lapping at Rarity's sex, taking the time to appreciate her scent and taste. Once her head cleared, Twilight pressed her tongue into Rarity and began swirling it around, running the tip of her tongue along the ridges of Rarity's inner walls. As Rarity was being eaten out, she moaned and unconsciously worked her hips, pressing her wet cunny into Twilight's mouth. “More... please, dear, I need a little more,” she gasped. Intent on bringing Rarity to climax, Twilight channeled her magic and began telekinetically pinching and tugging on her friend's clit, eliciting more emphatic cries.

“A~h, Twilight. Oh, oh, mmn, OH YES! Yes, Twilight! Just a bit more... Hah-aha, oh... More. Harder. YES! Just like that! Use your teeth! NO! Keep using your magic too! Fill me up with your magic and bite me at once! OH, YES! DON'T STOP, DON'T- AH! AH! Mm-hm-hm. Mn...” Rarity bit her lip and twitched intermittently as waves of pleasure coursed through her.

Twilight laid beside Rarity as she settled down and cuddled her. “I guess I did alright, huh?”

“Better than alright,” Rarity cooed. “Don't be modest, darling. Now...” Rarity's eyes flashed with aggressive passion once again. “How about the main event?”

Twilight's heart beat harder in her chest as she asked, “Do you mean the, er, toy?”

“Mm-hm. I'm eager to see the look on your face as I milk you dry.”

That particular comment sent a thrilling rush through Twilight, but it sparked her curiosity as well. This would be her first chance to really ask about the toy. “I've been wondering how it does that.”

Rarity chuckled for a moment before responding. “Darling, does that really matter right now?”

“Well... I'd really like to know. I mean, wondering about it is kind of distracting.”

Seeing the look of burning curiosity in Twilight's eyes, Rarity relented. “I'm afraid I don't know all the ins and outs. I asked for the most realistic experience possible for both parties and was assured that the result would be virtually indistinguishable from the real thing. I admit, I asked for some particulars myself, but Play Date wasn't terribly forthcoming.”

“She sold it to you, but wouldn't tell you how it worked?”

“She made it on commission.”

Wait, Twilight thought, I could have sworn Play Date was an Earth pony. How can she have made this? “How did she put together the spells that make the toy work? She isn't a unicorn.”

“I haven't the faintest. Now then,” Rarity lowered her voice to a sultry purr, and looked seductively into the naïve unicorn's eyes as she invited further intimacy, “shall we?”

I guess it's not important. Twilight pushed her lingering questions to the back of her mind, and quickly retrieved the toy. She brought the box back to the bedroom and emptied the contents onto the nightstand.

“Mmm, you've gotten quite a lot of use out of it already?”

“Huh? N-no? Just the one time, when I first got it.”

“Really?” Rarity levitated the plastic pussy in between them and waggled it back and forth slightly as she teased, “What's this then? I can only assume you acquired it from the adult boutique I sent you to a few days ago. Have you not made use of it? Practiced for tonight, perhaps?”

Twilight's face was red instantly; her wings fanned out defensively. “No! I-I haven't used that yet! I mean, I haven't really even had time. When you sent me to the sex shop I thought you wanted me to get something to go with the toy you gave me so, you know.”

Rarity smiled knowingly and gave Twilight a look that said You don't have to explain. “Hmm, that may be for the best anyway. There's no point practicing without feedback.” She set the toy down and turned away from the flustered alicorn, wiggling her hips off the side of the bed as she said: “You'll be getting a lot from me, so don't worry.”

Twilight stared at Rarity's ass and legs, stretched taut as she half stood, half laid with her back-hooves spread wide on the floor beside the bed. I see her and countless other mares walking around with their backsides on display every day, but I have never been more turned on in my life. What is Rarity doing to me?

The pale unicorn lifted her tail and swayed it from side to side above her plump buttocks and playfully, impatiently whined, “Twi~light, I'm ready. Won't you fill me up and rut me?”

Twilight was dumbstruck by Rarity's brazen display. Since she had first used the hyper-realistic strap-on, there had been times when she felt a nagging in the back of her mind, like a mental itch. Now that feeling had grown to such an intensity that she couldn't think of anything besides the urgent need pounding in her skull. She used her magic to slide the toy into its place and fasten it there, triggering the pseudo-transformation that would allow her to fully appreciate being enveloped within her friend's body.

Twilight half hopped up on the bed and placed her hooves on either side of Rarity, who instinctively pulled her tail to one side once she sensed Twilight mounting her. Twilight inched forward awkwardly until she felt the tip of her cock press against Rarity's warm, wet mound. Then, she felt the gentle tug of Rarity's magic positioning her at the opening. Twilight hunched forward, gripped Rarity's flanks with her hooves, and thrust. The hot, soaking wet tightness of her lover's loins was incredible; every inch of her dick felt as though it were melting into Rarity's hips, being molded into the shape of her tender passage. She was only dimly aware of Rarity's response to her sudden penetration.

“AH! Oh, treating me roughly, hm? Give it to me, Twilight, don't hold back.”

Twilight pulled her hips back and thrust again, driving about half of her length back into Rarity. The sound of their hips smacking together was vulgar and erotic and the feeling of wetness matting her coat around her crotch and slowly trickling down her thighs was filthy and sensual. She roughly pumped in and out several more times, her hips unguided by thought or conscious effort. She heard her mate cry out and moan, and felt the hips under her press back to meet her. She began biting Rarity's neck, nibbling and sucking. After a moment, they started to find a rhythm. Then their hips synchronized and the two ponies started coming together with more forceful and fluid motion.

Twilight couldn't concentrate on anything but the cyclic motion; all thought was blotted out by the minute, moment-to-moment sensations that dominated her mind. The feeling of Rarity squeezing her as she pulls back, in time with Rarity moving away from her. The delicate sensation of Rarity's pussy lips parting around the flared tip of her prick as she briefly pulls out entirely. Now she leans in, thrusting forward as Rarity pushes back, stimulating the entire length of her shaft. They come together and her abdomen claps against Rarity's ass. Her balls swing forward, brushing lightly against Rarity's thighs, teasing them both. The base of her cock feels so warm and wet for the moment, before returning to the cold air. For a moment neither moves, Rarity twitches inside and Twilight throbs, then they pull apart again. These sensations, along with their continuous, indistinguishable, unintelligible vocalisations and the taste and smell of Rarity's sweat, are the extent of Twilight's world for an unknowable length of time.

The trance-like state Twilight had slipped into was broken when Rarity suddenly arched her back against Twilight and screamed in ecstasy. Twilight's magic member was gripped tightly as Rarity's orgasm caused her to squeeze it rapidly. The fashionista furiously ground her ass against Twilight's abdomen and wound her tail around Twilight's to hold her deep inside. After a full minute of gasping and wordlessly crying out, Rarity finally collapsed onto the bed. Twilight leaned over her once more, eager to finish as well.

Before she had even begun thrusting again, Rarity began to whimper, “N-no, no please, Twilight, I'm much too sensitive. I-I can't take it.”

“Oh, Rarity, I'm so close! Just a little more?” Twilight plead in a voice that she didn't even recognize as her own for how husky it was.

“Ah, I don't think I can... Here, p-pull out and lay down. I'll help you finish an-another way.”

The sheer effort it required to separate herself from her lover was far more taxing on Twilight than the strain of their prior love-making. She felt cold and dissatisfied as she stepped back awkwardly and dripped steadily on the floor. She lay, exhausted, beside Rarity and splayed her legs. “Should I, um, I want to keep using the toy. Is that-?”

“Of course,” Rarity purred as she sidled over to the panting, purple pony. “Just tell me what you want.”

“Um, well, maybe you could use your, uh, mouth?” Twilight said with hesitant need.

“Mmn.” Rarity hummed lustily and licked her lips. She sniffed the tip, inhaling their combined scent deeply, and then opened her mouth wide and began panting on the wet stallionhood. Her breath tickled warmly and rekindled Twilight's diminished excitement.

“Unf, yeah. More.”

“More what? Tell me.”

“Would you... suck on it?” she sheepishly asked.

Rarity parted her lips again, swirled her tongue around the tip once and took it into her mouth making a soft, wet sound as her lips formed a seal. Her cheeks pulled inward as she sucked hard on the head. Still sucking, she pulled her mouth off of Twilight's silicone dick with an audible pop. “Like that?”

“Hah, y-yeah. That's good.”

Rarity proceeded to suck the head into her mouth before pulling off of it again, making lewd noises again as she did so. “Mmf,” she hummed as she took the tip again and quickly popped off once more, “you're certainly easy to please.”

“Stop teasing.” Twilight complained.

*shlup-pop* “I thought this-” *slurp-pop* “-was what you wanted?” *shlip-pop* “What do you want?”

Twilight bit her lip and started kicking at the air; Rarity's teasing was terribly good and frustrating at the same time. “Nnn! I want you suck more of it. Suck on the shaft!”

Rarity cocked her head one way and used her hoof to tilt Twilight's cock the other. She proceeded to press her lips against the underside of the shaft, just below the head, and sucked on the sweet spot there. Twilight groaned in appreciation as Rarity worked her way down the underside of the shaft, pausing to suck at the base of the cock before starting back up. Once she reached the tip again, she asked, “Better?”

“Sort of,” Twilight managed between deep, ragged breaths.

“Tell me what you want, darling. Be explicit.”

“O~h, I want you to suck the whole thing. Take it – take it down your throat!”

Rarity chuckled, “There we go. Don't be shy about sharing your desires with me, darling.” Rarity wrapped her lips around the head of the synthetic cock and swirled her tongue around the flared ridge, then slowly pistoned her head up and down, licking the sweet spot below the tip as she eased more and more of the shaft into her mouth. Just as Rarity took Twilight's cockhead into her throat, she began to make a muffled moan that rumbled from up her throat from her diaphragm. She started swallowing on the thick, sensitive pseudo-flesh and inched Twilight further down each time she thrust her head forward.

Twilight screwed her eyes shut and tensed up. She felt a pressure building within as Rarity brought her back towards the edge she had backed away from just a minute before. Her head swam and her body felt hot; she let out low, trembling groans and her hips bucked fitfully. “Oh! Rarity, I'm almost – I just need something! Go deep and hold it! Yes, yes, yes! Play with my balls, squeeze them. OOH! OH, YES! *GASP* Hah-AH-AH! *GASP* AHN!” Pleasure shot through her body, numbing her legs and stealing her breath. She felt herself shooting down Rarity's throat and pressed her hooves into her friend's well-coiffed mane, holding her head down on her cock.

After a moment, she collapsed onto her back, wheezing and light-headed. She felt Rarity rise off of her, keeping suction on the strap-on until she reached the tip and carefully closed her lips around it. Twilight watched as her friend-with-benefits swallowed the rest and cleared her throat before laying down beside her.

“I'm sorry,” Twilight said as she cast the trigger spell to deactivate the toy. “I, uh, didn't mean to push you like that, it just sort of... I wasn't really-”

“Thinking at that point. I know. It's alright, you're certainly not the least gentle lover I've ever had.”

“I can't believe we just did that. I mean, I asked you to... do things that I never imagined I'd ever ask for. Mainly because I don't normally have the right, ah, equipment for it.”

Rarity just smiled for a moment. “Not to worry. Embarrassment is normal when trying new things, just so long as you don't let it stop you from having a good time.”

Twilight laid still for a bit longer before Rarity suggested that they clean up before bed. The two mares showered together, helping each other clean while also fondling, nipping and leering at each others' bodies. They returned to the bed, but before Twilight could get in, Rarity insisted on changing the linens. (“It's wet! We'll be much more comfortable with fresh sheets and comforters.”) While waiting, Twilight became very cold and tired, shivering and nodding off in a chair nearby. Finally, Rarity was satisfied with the state of the bed, and the two of them settled in and cuddled.

“Oh! Your hooves are like ice, darling! I'm sorry to keep you waiting on such a cold night.”

“It's fine. You're... very warm.”

“Twilight?”

*yawn* “Yeah?”

“There's something I must discuss with you before tomorrow, I had meant to bring it up before, but I kept putting it off or simply forgetting. You see, in order to help protect you I plan on having our memberships with the Club changed to indicate a relationship between us that will make it difficult for the Club Elite, or indeed anypony, to attempt to catch you alone at a Club function without me by your side.”

“OK, that's fine.”

“Well, it's just that... ” Rarity hesitated. “Twilight, I don't want to upset you or, Celestia forbid, scare you off. However, I can't continue springing things on you, especially not about our intimacy. I'm a very dominate lover, and I want to know if you're open to some very demanding sexual kinks and allowing your privileges as a Club member to be limited as a result of being documented as my, heh, my sub.”

Twilight thought back to when Rarity had first brought her to climax, just the other day. She had said, 'the princess will kneel before her queen.' What exactly did she mean? “Rarity, what is it you want from me?”

Rarity fidgeted as she tried to find the right words. “I want you to let me control your pleasure and demand specific sexual favors from you. I...” she looked directly into Twilight's eyes, and said in an earnest, passionate voice. “I want to restrain you during sex. I want you to call me things like Mistress or Your Highness when we're intimate.” Her voice dropped and sounded very strained with longing, “Mainly, I just want to feel powerful while we're together in private.”

This is intense, can I do this for her? Do I want to? Twilight discretely touched herself and her hoof came away soaking. OK, so I like the idea, but is actually doing it going to work for me? I guess there's just one way to find out. “I'm willing to try,” Twilight told Rarity.

The next morning, Twilight woke to the sound of birds singing and the light of dawn streaming through the windows. Rarity was still asleep, her face obscured by the pink sleep mask she always wore to bed. Twilight thought about sleeping in, but remembered that she and Rarity had an appointment to keep. She rolled towards her finicky friend and lover and gently nuzzled her neck.

“Mhn, hunh?”

“Good morning, Rarity.”

“Oh, Twilight. *yawn* You're an early riser, I see.” She lifted her mask over her horn with her magic. “Well, now I see.”

Twilight couldn't help giggling at the joke. “I can hardly believe everything that happened last night. The politics, the secrets, the sex and Pinkie's party was-” Twilight finally made that connection and shot straight up in bed. OH MY CELESTIA. Rainbow Dash, was right! Pinkie Pie did hog tie her, gift wrap her and use her as a ponyata!

“My dear, whatever's wrong?”

“I need to check on Rainbow Dash right away!”

“We haven't got time. Play Date opens for business early every morning. She's expecting us.”

“But I need to make sure she's OK!”

Rarity shook her head softly, and asked in a soothing voice, “Twilight, what could possibly be wrong with Rainbow Dash?”

Oh no, Rarity doesn't have any idea what Pinkie did! Twilight wracked her brain, trying to come up with an explanation that wouldn't get Pinkie in trouble. After all, Twilight didn't know for sure if that was Rainbow in the buck harness. What can I say without getting them in trouble? I've got to say something... Would Rarity be upset with Pinkie over a slip up like this? “Well, it kind of started at the sex shop the day I signed up for the Club...”

Author's Note

Hey everybody! I could use some feedback, if anyone feels like leaving some comments.

First thing: I'm planning having the next installment be from Rainbow Dash's perspective. This story is primarily focused on Twi and Rare, but with an ongoing side story about RD and Pinkie. The parts with Dash and Pinkie will be fewer and farther between as well as more light-hearted since they aren't dealing with any antagonists. So, my question is: Should the segments about Rainbow and Pinkie be fully-fledged chapters, or interludes?

Second thing: I need criticism! Preferably of the constructive variety! Just point out technical errors, inconsistencies in style, and anywhere you notice continuity errors. Also, let me know if you think I'm taking too many liberties with the characters.

Thanks a bunch for reading and helping me be a better writer!

Chapter 6: Rainbow Dash's Pink Nightmare

TRIGGER WARNING: This chapter contains a depiction of non-consensual sexual interaction. Closer to molestation than rape, but still potentially unsettling. If you're unsure whether or not you want to read this chapter, take a look at the Author Comments.

Let's wind the clock back to the previous day. The night is young; not long ago, a young mare had just left her friend's home...

Rainbow Dash slunk her way through the darkening streets of Ponyville. She had kept to the long shadows cast by the town in the last light of the dying day. She crept soundlessly, like an assassin poised to-

“Howdy, Rainbow!”

The cyan pegasus came to a halt, and inwardly cursed herself. Stupid, stupid! I got distracted by self-narration!? Why did I have to read so many action books today? “Uh, hey, AJ. Can't really talk right now,” she said, trying to keep her voice down without seeming suspicious.

“Well shucks, I haven't got much time, neither. Just wanted ta say 'hi' since we bumped in ta one'nother. I'm kinda surprised I didn't see hide nor hair of ya today, workin' the stand at market an' all. Where've ya been hidin'?”

“W-who said I was hiding?” Dash demanded louder than she meant to. “I mean, I was just, uh, at the library. Hanging out with Twi.”

“Heheh, yer not still worked up over readin' somehow bein' bad fer yer image, are ya?”

“No, no,” Rainbow forced herself to laugh as she glanced around, checking for anything remotely pink. “Um, I really do have to go, though.”

“Well, I noticed ya weren't flyin' in too much of a hurry. Wanna walk partway with me?”

“OH, Ye – ah, um.” Wait, Pinkie won't accost me in front of AJ, but I'll be a sitting duck in the middle of the street once we split up. Unless she's already at the party by that time... AUGH, no! I don't know where that is, it might be on our route out of town. I can't just fly away, she always catches up! Her and her zany flying machines. This is why I was sneaking around on the ground in the first place; Celestia banish my sweet rainbow contrail!

“You... OK, sugarcube?”

“Huh? Yes! Fine. Awesome. I... will...” If my cover was gonna be blown, it probably already has. “-totally walk and talk with you.”

Rainbow Dash and Applejack made their way towards Sweet Apple Acres, talking about everything from sports, to their most recent competition (who could go the longest without eating an apple), to Rarity's hilariously failed attempt at making edible hats. Rainbow stayed with Applejack longer than she would have usually going past the midway point between their homes. At last, they reached the fields on the edge of Ponyville, and Dash had to make a sharp turn towards her cloud home or head entirely out of her way. The prospect of either walking or flying for longer that she had to outside of town and after dark was not appealing.

OK, she thought as she watched AJ walk away towards the farm, now I'm completely alone in a broad open space with nopony around. I'll just walk home and fly up to the door really, really quickly.

Rainbow Dash turned around to walk home and found herself face to face with Pinkie Pie. “Hi, Dashie!”

“AH, Pinkie Pie!” Dash shouted as she hopped into the air and hovered there. “Don't do that.”

*Giggle* “Sorry, Rainbow. Listen, I know I've been giving you a hard time lately. I wanted to give you something earlier today, to say sorry, but I couldn't find you anywhere!” Pinkie Pie produced a plate of cupcakes with little decorations shaped like Rainbow Dash's cutie mark. “You forgive me?”

Rainbow settled back down on the ground and smiled. “Yeah, of course I forgive you.” She took one of the sweets and happily began eating it. “I'm sorry for avoiding you, I thought you were gonna keep bugging me about the sex club thing.” She swallowed and furrowed her brow. “Actually, aren't you gonna be late for your party?”

“Na~h, heehee, I've prepared everything ahead of time. It'll be fine. Although... there is one li~ttle, ♪teensy-weensy♫ thing I still need to do.” Pinkie flashed her biggest, most infectious smile. “It's just that I need a bit of help?”

Rainbow immediately scowled at Pinkie. I can't believe it! She's just crying crocodile tears and bribing me with cupcakes! “Pinkie, I don't want to have any...” Rainbow trailed off as another Pinkie appeared and both started giggling at her. What? Two Pinkies!?

“Are you OK, Dashie?” the two Pinkies asked, sounding like they were far off, or maybe underwater. “Here, let Auntie Pinkie get you inside.” The two pink ponies coalesced into one as Pinkie got closer and took Rainbow by the leg.

“Wait, my houze izza o'er way...”

Pinkie giggled again. “I know silly. But I can't carry you up there. Now hurry up, I wanna get as far as we can before you fall asleep!”

“Huh?” was all Rainbow managed to say before blacking out.

When she came to, Rainbow couldn't see anything, and was barely able to move. She was laying on a hard surface and she felt like she was wearing a tight flight suit. Her heartbeat and breathing quickened as she tried to move. “What's going on!?” she growled. “Who's there? Untie me right n-!” Her mouth was suddenly obstructed by some cloth which somepony then tied around the back of her head. “Mmnf! MMM!”

“Heeheeheehee, those noises are so~ cute!♪ Don't worry, Dashie, You'll be much more comfortable in a minute.”

Pinkie? What's she doing here? Why is she..? No, wait, she brought me here! What is she doing?

Rainbow Dash felt something cold pinch her nipples; it held painfully tight. “Mn-nn!”

“Hahah*snort*heeheehee, oh, Rainbow Dash. You're just gonna love this next part! Are you ready? Huh? You wanna guess what your surprise is?”

“Hnn! Hm-mmn!”

“Heeheehahahee. *sigh* Nope.”

Dash heard a soft clicking sound and then a low hum. Suddenly, her tits were bristling with electricity. All thought, emotion or motor control became numb under the painful bliss. “HMMF! MNN! MM! MM! HMM!” She screamed into the gag as she strained her body to move against the stiff rubber suit that held her in position. Unbidden pleasure wracked her body until the electricity died off. She lay panting around her gag and through her nose, trying to catch her breath.

As her breathing evened out and her surroundings re-manifested themselves in her mind, she heard hooves across the floor beside her. They came to a stop by her ear and she felt a pony tug on the knot at the back of her head. “How was it?” Pinkie asked once Rainbow's mouth was freed.

“How?” Dash panted, “How did you... know?”

“HeeHEEheeheeheeHEEheeHEEHEEhee *snrk* heheheheheh, a~h. I know how to make all of my friends smile Dashie!” Pinkie wrapped the cloth around Rainbow Dash's face again.

“No-uumph! MMM! Mm-hm-hm-hm!” Rainbow thrashed in her skin-tight suit, barely causing her to shuffle a few inches across the floor. She felt another clamp shut on her clit, causing serious pain. “MM! HM! NMM!”

“Sometimes,” Pinkie said in an unsettling, flat voice as the clicking sound repeated many more times than before, “I even know better than they do.”

Rainbow was inundated with pain and pleasure and immediately began to orgasm, twitching spastically on the floor. Her mind went blank again, and she lost track of time as Pinkie continued to blitz her into sweet oblivion.

After passing out, it was a while before Rainbow Dash came to again. What happened? Where am I now? She still couldn't see or move her body, and even her jaw seemed to be held shut, but she felt as though she were upright and swaying gently. Am I being taken somewhere? After a moment, she heard muffled voices, which grew louder and seemed nearby, though it was impossible to make them out. Is someone else there? Thank Celestia!

Rainbow was just about to cry for help, when she heard Pinkie Pie shout, “IT'S PONYATA TIME!”

Rainbow jerked awake, and in her half-waking daze couldn't tell the difference between the twisted, sweat-soaked sheets and the gimp suit she had just been wearing. She thrashed and kicked until she fell off the side of her bed, and quickly got to her hooves. She looked around the dark room, her own bedroom, and tried to understand what had happened. As she calmed down, she began to remember.

I... I walked with Applejack, outside of town. Then I... flew home. I fed Tank and had dinner, then I stayed up late reading Daring-Do and eating ginger-spiced crab apple chips. She sat back on her bed and relaxed. Stupid, stupid! I need to stop eating those before bed. I never ran into Pinkie Pie today. I can't take this anymore. I've gotta get her off my back. But how?

Author's Note

SPOILER: This chapter is a literal nightmare. Rainbow has a bad dream about Pinkie forcing her to orgasm using bondage and electricity play before carting her into a crowd for use as a ponyata. This confirms that Rainbow Dash was NOT the pony at the end of chapter 4. Though there is a depiction of sexual abuse, no character is actually assaulted by another in this chapter. END SPOILER.

I'd like to apologize for any traumatic experiences or cupcake related flashbacks this may have induced.
I'd also like to apologize for the shortness of this chapter; future segments with Dash and Pinkie will hopefully be a bit longer and have more sexy fun.

Chapter 7: The Morning After

Rarity had been in a huff since she and Twilight Sparkle had gotten up. They had eaten breakfast in near silence, and Rarity had only spoken politely to remind her guest to dress inconspicuously so nopony would notice them heading towards the sex shop. So, Twilight had left the Carousel Boutique wearing a borrowed bandana over her mane, celebrity sunglasses and a flowy summer dress to hide her wings.

Rarity hadn't said a thing on the way. Twilight peered over the rim of her glasses, trying to read the unicorn's neutral expression. It was difficult since Rarity was also wearing large sunglasses and a sunhat besides. They were already in the back alley and Twilight knew she wouldn't have another chance to try and figure out what was going through her friend's mind before they spoke with Play Date. “Um, Rarity... I know you're mad at me for hiding what Pinkie did, but-” Rarity spun around on the spot and looked Twilight in the eye, causing her to fall silent.

“Twilight, I am not mad about that,” Rarity explained in a cool, even tone. “You were only trying to look out for a friend; although what she did was serious and we have an obligation to deal with the problem properly.” She paused for a moment, and continued in a strained voice, “I'm upset that you could think she would be capable of hurting Rainbow Dash. You know her better than that.”

Twilight felt ashamed. After confessing everything that had happened with Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash at the sex shop and library, Rarity had calmed Twilight down and admonished her for being very foalish before they had gotten out of bed. She had assumed that Rarity was upset over the breach of Club rules. Now it was obvious to her that she had been very paranoid and distrustful for suspecting Pinkie of forcing Dash to have sex with an entire party's worth of unfamiliar ponies. Twilight's cheeks burned with embarrassment over her ridiculous suspicion. “I'm sorry...” she apologized meekly.

Rarity let out a small sigh. “Don't worry about it. Just try not to get so worked up.” She smiled at her friend. “Look who I'm talking to, though. No matter how regal you may become, in some ways you'll still be the same awkward, excitable pony.” Rarity's expression hardened again as she turned towards the seedy store in the middle of the alley. “However, someone still needs to be held accountable for this transgression.”

Twilight knew Rarity was right, but still felt guilty for whatever punishment Pinkie Pie was going to suffer for her slip up. Maybe if Pinkie explains how it happened, the Club officials will be lenient, Twilight thought as the two mares entered the sex shop and went directly to the counter. Play Date was already there, reading a book. She looked up as they entered, then quickly read a few more lines before dogearing a page and putting it away. Twilight frowned at the minor mistreatment.

“Good morning, Ms. Elusive, Ms. Star,” she greeted them. “I'm glad to see you made it before any other customers started coming in. We will have more privacy to discuss your membership.” As she said this, Play Date set two folders on the counter. “How may I be of service?”

“We would like to have Evening Star registered as my sub, please.”

“OH!” An interesting expression flitted across Play Date's features, as though she couldn't decide what emotion to feel. She cleared her throat and tried to continue in a formal manner, even though she was blushing profusely and grinning just slightly. “Well, in that case, Ms. Star, let me go through all the finer points with you before we finalize anything. First of all, your rights as a member will be unaffected by this change, but your privileges will be restricted in line with your dom's preferences.”

“Could you tell me a bit more about what my actual rights and privileges are?”

Play Date stood stiffly and effected a serious expression as she spoke in a practiced tone, “Certainly! Foremost, the Club is concerned with protecting your privacy. Your dom is not allowed to reveal your identity to other Club members without your express permission, nor is she allowed to discuss your involvement in the Club with nonmembers under any circumstances, as usual. Also, you will always have access to basic Club benefits such as discreet medical services, private post delivery, or legal aid should you ever find yourself in a position where you are being sexually harassed or abused by somepony. Further, you can always come to me or another registrar to complain about any kind of mistreatment, and the matter will be investigated and resolved by Club officials.” She paused for a moment, seemingly trying to collect her thoughts. “A~nd... Oh! Yes, I should mention that you can change your being registered as Ms. Elusive's sub at any time without her being present or even involved in the decision, but the registrar that updated your membership will send her a notice of the change.” She paused again before continuing in a more lax fashion, “I think that covers member rights, more or less. If you want to know more about what the Club does for its members I've got some stuff you can read.”

The registrar pulled Rarity and Twilight's respective membership paperwork from the folders on the counter. She flipped to a section that contained a box about relationship status. “Alright, we'll mark each of you as the others marefriend? Or is it more serious than that?”

Twilight's cheeks flushed as she considered what to call their newly complicated relationship. Before she could settle on a label that seemed appropriate, Rarity provided her own term. “It seems to me that 'significant other' would be the best way to put it.”

Play Date nodded and scribbled on each page, then checked a few boxes. She pulled an additional sheet from under the counter and laid it out for Rarity. “OK, now I just need you to specify what restrictions you want to put on Ms. Star's privileges while I explain to her what those typically consist of.” Rarity levitated the quill and began to mark boxes and write specifics down while the toy-loving Club official turned her attention back to Twilight.

“So, a typical member's privileges can be suspended or revoked, either by a dom like in your case, or by Club officials as a penalty for violating our rules or pending an investigation of alleged misconduct. Privileges include hosting events, attending informal events hosted by other members, taking advantage of discounts at businesses associated with the Club, publishing adverts in the Club newsletter and employment through the Club.”

“Employment? You mean like becoming a registrar?”

“Hahah, no, no,” Play Date blurted out before catching herself. She cleared her throat and resumed, “It's not a simple process becoming a registrar. A member could become a registrar, but that's entirely different than what I'm talking about. I mean that businesses with ties to the Club sometimes have opportunities for members, and the Club hires private security and mail carriers and such from amongst its members.”

“Well, who decides to make whom into registrars?”

Play Date seemed confused by the question, and took a moment to answer. “Well, registrars appoint new registrars. There's an application process. Why? Did you want to become one?”

“No, not exactly. I'm just trying to understand the hierarchy. Who is in charge of making sure registrars do their job properly?”

“Um, each other, I guess? I mean...” Play Date furrowed her brow and seemed to be deep in thought.

“What I'm getting at is that the Club had to start somewhere,” Twilight clarified. “I'm trying to understand how this system was put in place and what keeps it organized.”

“Er, it sort of just runs itself. I don't have any idea how long the Club has been going, let alone who started it off.”

“Registrars aren't required to know about the history of the Club, or keep records made by their predecessors?”

“Um, the Club has a mission statement that we all know and rules that we memorize, but I was never aware of any kind of history. Besides, member records are destroyed after they leave the Club – to preserve their privacy – which means that a registrar's successor only gets the paperwork for current members in their district. So... no, there isn't any kind of documents or paper trail to follow.”

“What about records of the businesses associated with the Club? What about buildings the Club owns for use as venues?”

“I only really know about Ponyville. The Glory Hole in the Wall and Lotus and Aloe's spa are the only local businesses that offer deals for members. There's a big house in town that members can lease for events. The Club is definitely older than any of these.”

“Is it older than Ponyville itself?”

“Maybe,” Play Date shrugged. “Have you finished, Ms. Elusive?”

“Oh yes, I made my selections a moment ago, but I thought I'd let Eve finish with her questions.”

“Well, I'll just let you go ahead and explain the limits you'd like to impose while I notarize these changes.”

Play Date seemed entirely too happy to be doing paperwork, but Twilight decided not to press further just then. After all, I occasionally enjoy organizing my own documents. Instead, she turned her attention to Rarity. “Well, what am I missing out on?” she asked with playful mock concern.

“First and foremost, you cannot host or attend an event without my permission. Of course, this means you won't be sending invitations or RSVP in response to any without my say so. I've got to keep an eye on you after all,” Rarity remarked with a wink. “Other than that, I've chosen to have your mass-mail redirected to me. Newsletters, mail promotions and such. Lastly, I've taken the liberty of restricting access to Club-affiliated venues and member discounts without my presence. It may seem petty, but I want to oversee most of your activities within the scope of the Club. Just until I feel that you've earned more leeway.”

“Until I've earned it? Have I done anything to irk you?”

“I suppose you could try addressing me a bit more respectfully, but truth be told, I just believe that privileges should be earned rather than given.”

“I suppose you decided when you'd earned them for yourself?” Twilight joked. She had hardly said it before Rarity's glare turned her stomach to parasprites. Twilight's ears bent flat against her head as she gulped and put on a repentant smile. Rarity looked her up and down and settled into an uncompromising eye contact. Twilight felt as though she were being looked through.

“That deadpan humor will be the first thing to go,” Rarity said in a tone akin to noting a tedious chore to be done later. “Further, I think you should only respond when appropriate and address me as 'Mistress' or a similarly respectful title. Is that clear?”

Twilight's mind took a moment to thaw under her dom's icy stare, hurried along by a forceful hoof-tapping. “Erm, yes, um, M-mistress. I understand.” Rarity raised an eyebrow as she gave Twilight one last appraising look before turning away. A shudder ran up Twilight's back. That was terrifying! Although, the pliant princess reconsidered as tingling warmth spread through her hips, maybe it wasn't so bad...

“Play Date, there is one more thing I'd like to discuss with you.” Rarity declared.

The registrar had already begun putting away the files while wearing a positively shameful smirk and stealing glances at Rarity's admonishment of Twilight's behavior. She now looked up with a slightly worried face and responded, “Oh, was it something to do with your membership?”

“No. It's more concerned with you than us.”

“Oh? OH!” Play Date suddenly seemed very interested. “Is it my toy design? How are the two of you liking it?”

Twilight's ears perked up. That's right! She doesn't just own this place, she designs some of the products. Rarity had Play Date make the strap-on, I can ask her-, but Twilight's thoughts were interrupted when Rarity spoke again, sounding very agitated this time.

“It's nothing to do with your business, either, I'm afraid. I actually wanted to point out an egregious transgression of Club conduct that occurred just a few days ago, in this very shop.”

Twilight felt her heart sink as she considered what Pinkie's punishment might be. Play Date seemed similarly upset. It must be hard to dole out punishments. That's one thing about being a leader that I'm not looking forward to.

“Um, here in my shop? What do you mean?”

“I mean that you allowed a non-member to be present while you were conducting official Club business and did not warn another member of that pony's presence, which in turn led to that member mistakenly discussing details of Club activities in front of somepony who should not have been privy to such things.”

Twilight and Play Date's jaws both dropped. Oh my Celestia. Rarity, I love you! Twilight thought with relief as Rarity spun the unfortunate situation to Pinkie Pie's benefit.

“I... what!? When – WHAT!?” Play Date stumbled over her words. She looked back and forth between Rarity and Twilight a couple times, eyes wide and fidgeting with her forehooves. “No! I'm a little scatter-brained sometimes, but I'd never let that happen!”

“Oh really? Would you care to explain how it is that you not only registered Evening Star as a member, but also sold supplies for a Club event to Cherry Berry Crumble while a mutual friend of theirs and mine was present without that friend overhearing everything that was said?”

Play Date furrowed her brow as she recalled that days events. “But... she knew you were, well, Elusive. I thought...” she trailed off, looking slightly ill.

“You can't possibly expect anyone to believe that you didn't recognize Rainbow Dash. Nor could you have been unaware that she isn't a member, since you are responsible for the records of every member in Ponyville. I'm sure that isn't a terribly long list.”

“It's not,” the sex shop owner admitted very quietly. She looked extremely nervous at this point.

“So, it seems that we have a problem. My friend, Ms. Crumble, understandably assumed it would be alright to discuss the Club with Evening Star in front of Rainbow Dash. Eve had only just joined, and Dash isn't a member at all, so neither of them could have possibly realized that anything was wrong until it was too late. Clearly, Berry is in violation of Club rules, but I imagine that if she is punished she'll be wanting to appeal on the basis that a registrar was already discussing the Club in front of the non-member in question.”

Play Date seemed to shrink, and for a moment she simply shook like a leaf while giving Rarity a pleading look. Then she swallowed and seemed to find her voice. “There's, uh, there's no reason to assume that anypony will be punished. I mean, I'll need to get in touch with Ms. Crumble and Ms. Dash to ascertain how bad the breach of Club rules is. After that, well, I can take care of it. I'll see to it that Ms. Crumble understands not to discuss the Club with anypony present that she isn't certain is a member. I'll also make sure that Rainbow Dash is aware of the importance of preserving the Club's secrecy and that there will be repercussions for her if she doesn't.”

“Well, in that case I don't see the need for anyone else to know about this little mishap.”

“NO!” Play Date exclaimed, before catching herself. “No, of course not. I can handle this, I assure you. There is no need for concern.”

With that said, Rarity turned to leave and led Twilight from the shop. Once outside, Twilight drew her friend into an embrace. “Rarity, that was brilliant! Thank you for that, I was really worried that Pinkie would get into a lot of trouble.”

“Twilight,” Rarity said sternly as she gently pushed the alicorn away. Twilight stepped back, uncertain and confused. “I do appreciate your gratitude and affection,” Rarity told her soothingly. “However, I must insist on enforcing my direct instructions when nopony else is around.”

Twilight had to consider Rarity's words for a moment before she understood. “You want me not to talk unless spoken to first, Mistress?” she asked with a coquettish smile.

“Mm-hm. Whenever I give an order that isn't associated with a particular time or event, you should assume that I mean for you to continue following that instruction until I tell you otherwise. Of course, I don't expect you to act differently in public than you normally would.”

“May I speak unprompted to ask for your permission to do things without being told, Your Highness?”

“If I didn't know better, I'd think you were addressing me that way mockingly rather than taking this seriously,” Rarity accused, albeit with a smile on her face. “What is it that you'd like to do?”

“I'm still a little concerned about Rainbow Dash. I know it's silly, but I want to go check on her.”

“What are we forgetting?”

I think I am forgetting something actually, Twilight pondered. After a moment, she remembered. “Oh, yes! I was supposed to look for a toy Rainbow wanted. Pinkie made her promise not to come back here after...” Twilight trailed off when she saw the unamused look on Rarity's face. “Um. What were you thinking of?” she asked meekly.

“You neglected to address me properly when asking for my permission to run off.”

“Oh! I'm sorry, Rar – er, My Queen,” Twilight corrected with a apologetic smile.

“Better. Go ahead and check in on her if it will make you feel better. You should probably go ahead and make sure that Spike is doing alright as well. Knowing him, the little cutie is probably still asleep this early in the morning, without you there to wake him.”

“You're probably right,” Twilight giggled. “Mistress!” she added hastily. “So, Mistress, would it be really terrible to go back in and try to get-”

“Let's give Play Date a little space for now,” Rarity said gingerly, “poor dear would probably have a heart attack if we went back in right this second.”

Twilight Sparkle followed Rarity back to the Carousel Boutique to return the borrowed garments before making her way to the edge of town and flying up to Rainbow Dash's cloud home. She'd told herself it was silly to think that Pinkie Pie could have actually somehow forced or coerced Rainbow into coming to the party last night, let alone being the ponyata, but that didn't stop her anxiety from bubbling up on the way. This is silly, she chided herself, Rainbow was just joking before. She'll probably laugh at me for even bothering to come and check on her.

Twilight knocked on the door and waited with waning patience for an answer. When another knock and a full minute of anxious silence didn't yield any results, she decided to look through some of the windows. What time is it? she wondered as she started peeking into the house. Maybe she is still in bed.

“Hey!” a familiar voice shouted from behind and above her, “What are you doing?”

“Rainbow Dash!” Twilight called up to her as she flew higher to hover along side her friend.

“Why were you trying to spy on me?”

“I wasn't! You didn't answer when I knocked, so I decided to try and spot you through the windows before looking elsewhere.”

“Well, duh, I didn't answer. I left to punch in at work at 9. I had to kick a few wandering clouds back into line and help the weather team direct some winds. Didn't you notice it's kinda breezy this morning?”

“I'm not even sure what time it is right now,” Twilight admitted. “Actually, I came to see how you were doing.”

“Why?”

“Oh, um, you just seemed kind of upset when you left last night.”

Rainbow's face darkened just a little as she looked away for a moment. “I'd almost forgot about the party while I was at work. How was it?”

“It was...” –strange, exciting, intimidating, distressingly similar to a scene from a bad spy novel, totally inappropriate for ponies of any age, probably not something I should talk to a non-member about– “fun.”

“You totes sound like you mean that.”

“That observation sounded completely genuine and not sarcastic at all.”

*Pfft* “OK, OK, no more sarcasm," Dash laughed. "I'm fine, and it sounds like you're not too messed up after whatever happened, either. Let's move on.”

Is she hiding something? “I just wanted to know whether or not Pinkie was still harassing you. I know she's our friend and we can trust her, but I'm just concerned that she'll get carried away do something terribly... silly.”

“I haven't seen her today.”

She still sounds evasive. “Did you see her again last night?”

Rainbow gave Twilight a hard look, and seemed a bit unnerved as she asked, “Why are you asking?”

Twilight closed her eyes, took a deep breath and accepted that she was probably about to embarrass herself. “I saw a pony in a skin-tight getup being used as a ponyata on my way out, and there were colorful streamers in her tail, and this morning I woke up and suddenly wondered if it was actually you because of that dumb joke you made yesterday.” Twilight sucked in another breath when she had finished and let it out slowly.

When she opened her eyes again, Dash was trying to keep a straight face, but not from laughter. “I had a nightmare about that actually. I don't want to talk about it!” she added forcefully as Twilight opened her mouth to speak. “I just need to get Pinkie to stop bugging me. I'll figure it out, don't worry about it.”

Try as Twilight might, she could not get Rainbow Dash to open up about the dream or what she intended to do about their excitable, pink friend. After a little longer, Twilight decided to head home and found that Spike had just woken a little earlier and was getting ready for a late breakfast. As she helped cook and then ate her own lunch a bit early, she was still distracted by the events of the prior night and that morning. Unfortunately, it showed.

“Twilight, you in there?” Spike asked her. “It seems like you're mind's a million miles away. What's got you so fixated?”

“Sorry, Spike, I've just got a lot on my mind.” Twilight considered what she could and couldn't tell Spike. He was too young to discuss the raunchier aspects of what had been going on. Besides which, even leaving the sex out entirely, she didn't know how to break it to him that she had somehow wound up in some kind of close relationship with the one pony he'd ever had a crush on. She didn't know how to explain the situation with Pinkie Pie and Rainbow dash without opening herself up to a lot of uncomfortable questions. That just leaves...

“At the party I went to the other night, there were three ponies from Canterlot who are all involved in politics. Rarity has had to deal with them before, and now she wants my help because she can't stop them from abusing their influence for selfish, harmful reasons. I'm just concerned that I won't be able to have any effect on them, or that they'll trick me into helping them achieve whatever it is they're after.”

“Shyeah, like that could happen. You're the smartest pony around, and a Princess, too! Whoever these guys are, you're way outta their league.”

Twilight couldn't help but smile at Spike's naïve praise. Who knows? Maybe he's right, they didn't seem terribly bright, after all. Maybe everyone they've come up against has been too afraid to do anything.

As the day crept on into the afternoon, Twilight kept busy. She caught up on her correspondence with Canterlot and the Crystal Empire, gave herself a refresher course on the structure of Equestrian government, made a to-do list for the next day and rechecked her to-do list for the next day. After a while, Twilight ran out of things to do and cursed herself for not making a checklist for today yesterday. It occurred to her that she wasn't sure if Rarity had expected her to come back after checking in on Rainbow Dash and Spike and decided to pay the fashionista another visit.

A short walk later, Twilight entered the boutique, surprised to discover that there were no patrons today. “Rarity?” she called out, “Are you home?”

“You don't learn very quickly, do you?” the beautiful unicorn replied in a tone that carried authority and demanded attention. “I thought I made it clear I expected to be addressed with reverence,” she continued as she walked slowly toward Twilight with an unyielding gaze.

Twilight could only meet Rarity's eyes and apologize, “Forgive me, Mistress. I wasn't sure if you were alone.”

“My silly princess,” the dominant pony said before she clicked her tongue against her teeth. “Didn't you see the closed sign on the door? I've been waiting for you to return. For that matter, what took you so long?”

Twilight felt her cheeks burning, she hadn't noticed any such sign, and was uncomfortably aware that she wouldn't be able to give any good reason for being gone so long. “I wasn't certain if I was meant to come back straight away, Mistress. I just busied myself with other things until I had finished everything I needed to get done today.”

Rarity took hold of Twilight's ear with her magic and pulled her along towards the stairs. “So, my princess has better things to do than see to her queen's needs, does she? We'll just see about that!”

Author's Note

Augh, I'm a complete bum. I'm so sorry for being gone an entire month, I don't even have a good reason. I just kind of hit a slump with my writing and couldn't get anything out. I'll try to not do that again, or at least post a blog when I'm going to be late delivering another chapter.

I know that this chapter is a bit all over the place, kinda exposition heavy, and just barely advances the story at all. I'm also aware that there isn't ~~much~~ ANY hot pony action. I promise the next chapter will delve into Twi and Rare's relationship a bit more, have some titillation and even advance the plot a little. I just needed to have a sort of in-between addressing the point at which Pinkie and Dash's side story completely breaks off from the main one. Henceforth, those chapters will have little to do with the rest of the story, but they should be a lot of fun.

As ever, give me criticism. I'm certain this chapter is a weak bit of writing for me, partly because I started it, stopped and came back about 4 weeks later after forgetting what I wanted to do with it. Also, I encourage speculation and wishful thinking. I reserve the right to ignore the ideas I don't like and steal the one's I do.

Chapter 8: Devotion

Warning: This chapter has depictions of bondage and mild sado-masochism.

Twilight Sparkle laid on a plush rug at the foot of Rarity's bed, resting her head against her dominate lover's hip. Rarity sat on her haunches on a velvet cushion, admiring the crimson collar she had just fastened around her sub's neck. “I was worried that the pale gold buckle was too light on the dark red, but I'm happy with it now that I see it against your lavender coat,” she said as she stroked Twilight's mane. “Do you like it?”

“Yes, Mistress, it's beautiful,” Twilight purred. “Thank you.”

“You're welcome, but now I think it's time I broke you in a little, to show you that my demands and time are no trifling matters. You deserve a proper punishment for keeping me waiting for no reason, don't you agree?”

“Of course, my Queen.”

Rarity smiled as she continued, “Let's discuss the terms of your punishment. You're still new to all of this, so let me be perfectly clear: the key to a dominate and submissive relationship is communication. As long as we have a mutual understanding and agreement of what we want, unequal control can be empowering and rewarding for us both. I fully intend to take control of you, but always in a manner that you expect and desire. That said, I must punish slips in decorum and failure to satisfy my commands. The question is: how can I discipline you without going too far?”

“Are you asking me, Mistress, or is it a rhetorical question?”

“A little of both. We need to set boundaries, and you must tell me what yours are. May I spank you? Scold you? Impose restrictions on you?”

“I didn't think I get to decide such things. Isn't that what makes me a sub? Your sub, Mistress?”

“Within reason, my little princess. Everypony has limits. Good doms always respects their sub's limits. I may try to help you push yours, if you're willing, but I will not ignore them.”

Twilight considered this, but wasn't really sure what her limits were. The punishments she suggested don't sound so awful. “I don't know what to say, Mistress. I don't think any punishment you choose will upset me terribly.”

Rarity chuckled softly to herself. “Very well, but you may be surprised what you can and cannot tolerate and enjoy. As a bare minimum, we will rely on your safe word.”

“I'm sure I've heard of that before, but would you remind me?”

“You don't know what a safe word is?” Rarity asked incredulously. “We really can't do anything until you pick one. It's a simple word or phrase you will say if you ever need to stop what we're doing at once. If you ever suddenly experience intolerable pain or discomfort, or you feel distressed for any reason, you will say your safe word and I know instantly that something is wrong.”

“Can't I just say stop?” Twilight asked, confused.

“Well, you might want to use the word 'stop' for something other than telling me you need to stop entirely, such as asking me not to put my weight on a tender spot. The point is that the safe word is very distinct, a word you would never conceivably use during sex for any other purpose. That way, I can know in an instant to cease any touching, dirty talk or other fetishistic activities.”

Something completely unrelated, Twilight mused. She scoured her vocabulary for a word that was very short and easy to understand that would likely never come up. “I've got it: flyleaf!”

“Fly-leaf? That's an odd combination of words, but I suppose that's the point. Will you remember?”

“Of course, Mistress, a flyleaf is a blank page at the front or end of a book!”

“Ah, I see,” Rarity said with a smile. “Perfectly appropriate, my pet. Now, your punishment will be a crash course in bondage. It's what I wanted to do to you today anyway, but rather than walk through each step gradually and sensually with you, you're just going to roll over and let me tie you up like the naughty sub you are, aren't you?”

The pleasant tingles Twilight had been feeling since Rarity began to scold her downstairs intensified. “Mm, yes, Mistress, please discipline me. Otherwise, I'll never learn.”

“And you have so much to learn. Now get on the bed, face down, backside up and legs spread!”

Twilight clambered to fulfill her dom's command, scrambling over the foot of the bed and assuming the subservient position demanded of her. She jumped slightly as Rarity examined her, as a dainty hoof grazed her sex.

“Mn, anticipating our punishment are we, my slave?”

“Yes, Your Highness. I need you to be stern with me.” Oh, please be rough with me! Force me to come until I can't even think, like you did the first time! Twilight felt heavy straps fasten around her ankles and had to fight the urge to lift herself up to look back between her legs. She heard a metallic click. What is she using? I expected her to tie me with rope or something.

“Spread a bit more, shimmy that rump and lower yourself down,” Rarity instructed. Twilight heard more clicks as she shook and swayed her torso while shifting her hooves further out to her sides. “That's good. Now I want you to try raising those slim hips of yours for me. Let me see you stretch your legs.”

As Twilight drew her calf muscles taut, she tried to adjust her position on the bed and found that she couldn't close her wide spread back legs at all. The awkward movement nearly made her fall over, but she spread her wings for balance and caught herself. “M-mistress? What did-?”

“Do not question your Queen! Keep your curiosity in check, or I will teach you to do so!”

Yikes! The young alicorn thought to herself. I'd better let her do as she pleases for now.

“The view is marvelous, but these are just too distracting,” Rarity said with the air of an artist refining one's work. “I'll have to tie them down.” No sooner had she said it, than Twilight felt a band of heavy fabric run across her back. “Close your wings, my princess. You won't be needing them.”

Twilight folded her wings against her sides and blushed profusely as she felt the fabric rubbing against them and along her belly. The ribbon crisscrossed her midsection, encircling her and binding her wings in an intricate, interwoven pattern. It's so ticklish, she whined internally as she bit her lip to stifle laughter and panting, and so tight! It almost hurts.

Twilight heard the soft sound of fabric rubbing against itself as Rarity tied off the ends. “That's so much better,” the fashionista told her. “Midnight blue, with onyx trim. This bow is just darling on you, like a little present. Maybe when I'm finished, I'll leave you wrapped up until Heart's Warming.”

“Hmn.”

“I didn't quite catch that.”

“Ooh~, I'd love to be your gift, Mistress. I'll do my best to keep you warm.”

“I'm sure you would,” Rarity giggled. “I'll think about it. Right now, I'm going to truss you up in some stockings.”

“The sort that go over a fireplace, Mistress?”

“What did I say about questions? If we had a stronger rapport already, I'd have you gagged by now.”

“Ah, I'm sorry, Mistress, please punish me even more, so you can forgive me!”

“In due time...” Rarity said under her breath as she sidled onto the bed next to Twilight. “Give me your hoof.”

Twilight did as she was told, and Rarity slipped black sleeves over her forelegs. They had red laces coming from the ankles, which wove into small holes up the entire length of the seams. Twilight watched out of the corner of her eye as Rarity laced the garments up, forcing Twilight's legs to bend and tuck under her chest. Her mistress wrapped the laces behind her back, under her legs, around her sides, across her chest and tied them back onto the sleeves.

“Time to roll over. Just let yourself fall onto your side; I'll turn you the rest of the way.”

Once she was one her back, Twilight craned her neck forward to see herself clearly. Her forelegs were in black velvet stockings tied with burgundy lace, tucked against either side of her chest tightly and immobile. A beautiful blue-black ribbon wound it's way completely around her torso, circling over and under itself in a sort of helix, pinning her wings to her sides. Her hindlegs were spread obscenely far apart, held in place by thick, padded straps connected to a metal bar comprised of two interlocking parts that could extend but not retract without pressing a release.

Twilight's breathing quickened, and she felt her face and loins growing hotter. Sweet Celestia, I want Rarity now! “My Queen, please use me. I ache to serve your every need and whim.”

“So presumptuous! Could you possibly think I don't already intend to do just that?” As she spoke, Rarity telekinetically lifted a simple strip of white cloth and a pair of ear-plugs over her sub's face. “Now for the finishing touches.” Rarity chuckled softly before continuing. “Touches are the only thing you'll be aware of in a moment.”

Indeed, as the plugs nestled into place, and the fabric wrapped itself around her head and tied itself into a knot just under and behind her left ear, the scope of Twilight's sensations narrowed considerably. She could feel the bed move as Rarity shifted and moved down between her legs. She felt hooves press against her inner thighs and warm breath blow over her exposed sex. She bit her lip and tried not to fidget with anticipation as she counted little kisses on her legs, hips, abdomen and just beside her pussy.

Rarity, please, you're driving me out my mind! Twilight thought as she began to wriggle in place. She felt the hooves on her thighs move over her legs and press against her hips, keeping her lower body still. A tongue quickly ran up her wet cunny, parting her labia and flicking across her clit. The princess gasped and was sure she must have cried out, though she couldn't hear herself. Her breathing became ragged panting as that tongue pressed harder into her, deftly teasing her opening with short probing thrusts. Suddenly, teeth pinched her pearl and she bucked her hips for a moment before her lover laid more weight on her legs. Uhn, she's teasing me as much as she can and not letting me move at all. This is torture, but I love it!

Twilight twisted her upper torso from side to side as the teasing continued and intensified. She felt teeth and tongue tug and tickle at her tits. Ice cold and burning hot sensations magically bit into her privates. She began to wordlessly voice her frustration and ecstasy, with no idea of how loud she was. As the unyielding pleasure continued to mount, she felt her body begin to tense and tremble uncontrollably. Just as she approached the cusp of orgasm, her lover withdrew and stepped off of the bed. Twilight whimpered, but said nothing, since she knew that Rarity must be denying her on purpose.

After several agonizing moments, she began to grow impatient. Twilight's arousal was far from gone, but had subsided considerably. “My Queen, I beg you not to leave me here to languish,” she implored impishly, hoping to appeal to Rarity's well-spoken sensitivities. “At least make use of me for your own pleasure if nothing else, Mistress.” There was no response as far as Twilight could tell. She was deaf and blind to her surroundings, and any attempt to move across the bed was slow and ineffective.

Not to mention I might just fall to the floor, she considered. I'm not sure how far from the edge I am. Or how long I've been laying here. Twilight felt uneasy as it occurred to her that she didn't know whether or not Rarity was even still in the room. It's fine. There's nothing to worry about. “Your Highness? I'm eager to serve you. Won't you please use me? I need to pleasure you.” Where is she? Is she just watching me squirm? Is she getting a toy of some kind? Did someone knock and she just left me here while she went to deal with it? What if she went downstairs to get it and tripped and fell and I just couldn't hear it? Twilight began to hyperventilate. I can use my magic to get out of my bonds – no, wait! Maybe she's testing me, to see if I would do that when I think she isn't paying attention! Oh, I don't know what to do, I want to be a good sub, but I don't know what's going on. Should I just trust her and hope nothing's wrong? “Ra-Rarity?” Twilight called out, her voice cracking.

Suddenly, the bed shifted under her back again and she felt a pony lay beside her. A warm face gently nuzzled her cheek and began kissing her neck. Thank Celestia, I was just getting myself worked up. Twilight returned the affection in kind and began to kiss back passionately, swirling her tongue around Rarity's and running the tip along the ridge of her partner's teeth. Rarity broke the kiss and repositioned herself, laying on top of Twilight with her legs on either side. Twilight felt one of the earplugs tug lightly and pop out.

“Terribly sorry about that, darling, I was trying to decide between some tandem toys. I think you'll like my selection.”

“Mm, yes please, my Lady,” Twilight replied with relief and desire.

The plug reinserted into her ear, and Twilight felt Rarity shift to look back between their hindlegs. Something pressed against the princess' nethers as her Queen rested more weight on her chest and belly. “Oh, Tartarus, YES! Fuck me like a mare in heat.” Did I say that out loud? Why would I say that? Twilight felt herself part around the phallic plaything and craned her neck to kiss her lover. I don't care. This feels too good to be embarrassed. Rarity's loins came very close to her own, their bellies rubbed together and her dom's nipples brushed gently against her teats. Twilight's mind grew hazy as Rarity pressed against her cunny, driving the toy deep inside. She panted and whispered into Rarity's ear. “Fuck me, use me, I'm yours: just a slave – a toy.” I wonder if I'm louder than I think. Am I being too dirty for her?

Rarity began passionately thrusting and grinding her hips, sending the toy sliding deep inside and caressing Twilight's sweet spots. The two mares kissed and nipped at each others lips, necks and shoulders. Hot breath washed over Twilight's face as Rarity began panting, her coat was rustled by nuzzling and writhing. The feeling of each silent slap of their groins was painful pleasure, driving her closer to climax. Her mistress started to bite her, harshly pinching and tugging on her lips, ears, neck. Their hard nipples danced around in circles, tickling one another. Twilight's throat felt raw, and she realized she was screaming.

When she finally came down from her orgasm, Twilight felt Rarity still gyrating gently on top of her hips. Her hot button was being nicely pressed by her dom's abdomen, and the toy they shared pumped and twisted deep inside. The princess was tired, but awkwardly tried to reciprocate for a moment, before remembering that her legs were spread by her bonds. She parted her lips and moaned from the back of her throat, hoping that Rarity would kiss her again. Instead, she felt her lover pull out of her and stand. The bed shook as Rarity turned herself around and settled back down, pressing her flower into Twilight's mouth. Twilight could only moan into Rarity as she swirled her tongue inside.

Intense pain rushed through Twilight's body, causing her to stop what she was doing and emit muffled cries into Rarity's loins. She felt it again before it registered what was happening: Rarity was biting her clit. Twilight reflexively tried to close her legs, but was stymied by the spreader bar. She twisted under her dom and whined, but to no avail. Teeth cruelly pinched her clitty, occasionally tugging or twisting slightly. The tip of a tongue flicked across the abused nub. Gentle suckling broke the pain for a moment before further punishment. Suddenly, her tormentor stopped and lifted off of her.

One of Twilight's earplugs dislodged and Rarity's husky, lust-laced voice asked, “Is it too much?”

“No, no, please!” Twilight pleaded before she could even think. “More, don't stop. PUNISH ME!” The earplug nestled into her again as the weight of her Queen pressed down once more. Why did I say that? This is awful, it's torture! It's- Rarity nipped at her clit again and Twilight felt her throat twinge as she began involuntarily responding noisily. So good! OH, oh... Her mind started to empty itself again as she moaned and thrust her tongue into her dom.

Twilight couldn't be sure how much time had passed when she opened her eyes and found that she could see Rarity's beautiful face just above her. “You liked that more than I would have thought.”

Twilight felt her face flush. “I, uh, didn't think that I...” I can't believe this is working for me at all. I feel so... dirty. “This isn't like me,” she managed to say softly.

“Ponies are always surprised to discover what others are like behind closed doors. Sometimes they surprise themselves, too. Don't be embarrassed, my princess, your Queen will take good care of you. All I ask in return is your complete and utter devotion to me.”

“W-what do you..?”

“You've tasted a little of what it's like to surrender control. Now it's time to try taking instruction.” Rarity's voice had a hard edge, and her eyes gleamed with hunger. “Will you fulfill every task I ask of you; faithfully, unquestioningly obeying? Will you humiliate and debase yourself, if I require it? Will you shed any pretense of privacy or independence at a moments notice?”

Twilight shuddered warmly as her body responded in a visceral way. Fears and doubts nagged at the back of her mind, putting her on alert, but something deep inside of her compelled her to submit. I don't understand why I want this; it feels right even though it seems like it should be wrong. Her heartbeat and breathing both picked up their pace. She licked her lips and swallowed hard. She could only think to say: “Yes, my Queen. Your princess wants to obey. Please, please tell me what to do.”

Rarity locked eyes with Twilight. Glaring into her, as though she were looking through her mind. “I believe you,” she whispered barely loud enough for Twilight to hear, even though their faces were separated by just a few inches. In a single fluid motion, Rarity leaped over Twilight and off the bed. Twilight could see and feel her lover's warm magical aura envelope her and quickly undo her bonds. Just as her wings and legs came free, Twilight's collar was fastened to a leash which Rarity had wrapped around one hoof. “Come,” she commanded and tugged firmly. Twilight slid off the side of the bed and walked up to her dom. “Stop, sit.”

“Your Highne-”

“Shush. Until told otherwise, speak only to respond. Understand?”

“Yes, Mistress,” Twilight acknowledged as she sat on her haunches in front of Rarity.

“Hence forth, you are my pet. You belong to me, and will accept my every word as truth and every command as law.”

Twilight felt her back tense and relax as tingling sensations rippled through her. “Yes, Mistress.”

“If I am dissatisfied with your performance,” Rarity warned as she levitated a crop from a nearby chest, “you will be disciplined.”

The heat in Twilight's cunny began to return. “I understand, Mistress.”

Rarity began to pace around her, eying her critically. Twilight turned her head to follow Rarity. “Eyes forward,” she barked as she prodded Twilight's cheek with the crop. “Sit up straight!” The course material lightly smacked Twilight just above the tail.

“HAH-mmph.” Twilight did her best to contain herself as she straightened up. “Y-yes, my Lady.”

Rarity circled around in front of Twilight again and lifted her chin with the tip of the crop. “Now, it's time to test your resolve. Prostrate yourself.”

“Yes, my Queen.” Twilight laid on the floor, legs outstretched and face down.

“Dispense with your responses. When commanded to act, you need not speak, only obey. Roll over.” Twilight turned onto her back, limbs splayed out, looking up at her dom. Rarity ran the crop down the length of Twilight's belly, from just below her collar to her sex, pausing briefly to tease her nipples with a figure eight around her teats. “Stand,” she demanded. Twilight had barely flipped over and gotten to her hooves before Rarity pulled on the leash. Twilight allowed herself to be led to a comfy chair in the corner, which Rarity sat in. “Sit,” she instructed, pointing to the floor just in front of the chair using the crop.

Twilight sat on her haunches again, and Rarity lifted her left hind hoof onto Twilight's right shoulder. She then pressed her other hind hoof against Twilight's face. “Lick them clean.” Twilight blushed brightly and hesitated, embarrassed and incredulous of what she had just been asked to do. She felt the loop of the crop lash her side between her wing and hip; Rarity had been so quick that Twilight hadn't even seen it move. “Don't make me ask again!”

“Forgive me, Your Highness!” the pliant princess pleaded. Using her forehooves to hold Rarity's ankle steady, Twilight began to lick the underside of Rarity's hoof. At first, she moved mechanically, simply running her tongue from one side to the other in a straight line. She looked up into the outwardly proper unicorn's eyes and saw the unsated desire within. A look that was both passionate and predatory; Rarity met Twilight's gaze with an intensity that caused the fire inside of her to rage even hotter. She put everything she had into the task; tracing the curve of the hoof with the tip of her tongue, drawing circles in the center, lapping furiously, and even nibbling as she suckled on the tip. Anything that she thought would please her mistress.

A long moment passed, and Rarity gently tugged her hoof from Twilight's grasp. “Now the other,” she breathed as she wiped her hoof against her sub's chest. Twilight let Rarity grind the moist hoof into her coat before resting it on her left shoulder and took hold of the other to service. After a minute of further subservient pampering, Twilight was told to stop and kneel just in front of Rarity's chair. “I need some time to decide what to do with you next,” she said as she put her hooves up on Twilight's back. “Hm, perhaps I'll just make use of you as an ottoman for now. You are soft and warm.”

Twilight knelt there for some time, not daring to object or complain. This is starting to make me sore. I wonder if she already knows exactly what she wants, and is just enjoying making me do this. The thought of being put to such a trivial, belittling use made Twilight shiver with perverse delight.

The leash jerked sharply at her collar. “Do keep still.”

“I'm sorry, Mistress.”

“Furniture doesn't talk.” The crop whipped Twilight's ass once, leaving a mild burning sting.

Twilight had to try very hard not to moan or fidget from the sensation. She almost wanted to anyway. It feels so... naughty, being disciplined. That's awfully backward. She resisted so as not to displease Rarity.

At length, Rarity lifted her hooves from Twilight's back and stood. She began to leave the room, leading Twilight by the leash as she went. “You know, I had things I needed to get done today as well. However, I waited since I did not want to become terribly involved in something just as you might return. So now, I will make use of you.” They made their way downstairs and into Rarity's workshop. “You are going to be my mannequin and model until I have finished, and since we're done with the more extreme acts of intimacy...” Rarity produced an elegant bridle complete with bit and blinders. “You won't be needing to speak. If you have any objections to standing perfectly still for – oh say – a couple hours, now would be the time.”

“Will I be rewarded for complying if I do a good job, Mistress?”

“Hmm, perhaps. We'll just have to see.” Rarity nuzzled Twilight, and kissed her passionately, probing her mouth and swirling their tongues around one another. “I might just have some new toys for you, if you behave.”

It's a good thing I don't have anything else I need to do today, Twilight pondered as her collar was removed and the bridle was hitched to her head. I don't think I'll be getting home until rather late.

Author's Note

Oh my freaking God, has it really been over six weeks? I am so many different kinds of sorry, I took time off for the holidays and then I had a bout of really bad writer's block. Speaking of which, I started another story to try and get over it. It's not done yet, but I like what's there and will update it at some point.

SO! This chapter has absolutely no plot progression and is entirely porn! Yay! I hope this makes you happy, but if you're here for the plot... the literal one, I mean, then I must disappoint you. There will be another chapter within two weeks, though. I really, really mean it this time. I have things planned out. Sort of.

Chapter 10: Preparations

Warning: This chapter contains a lot of plot, and not the fun, squishy, wiggle-it-in-my-face kind, either. There are miniscule amounts of very soft sado/masochism and almost some public humiliation. I'm sorry, if you're here to clop, you will probably be disappointed. If you're here for the plot (the wordy, pay attention kind) you will be pleased.

Twilight Sparkle woke just as the light of dawn began to fill her bedroom. As majestic as it would be to have been roused from her slumber by the light inching across her, she was actually torn from sleeps embrace by her alarm clock. She allowed Spike to sleep a while longer as she put on a small pot of coffee, had a brief shower and prepared some oatmeal.

While she sipped on her first cup of Coltombian blend, Twilight collected her thoughts regarding the recent and coming days. Celestia and Luna will leave on their sabbatical in a few days; I'll have to travel to Canterlot to maintain royal presence in the capital. They'll leave on the twenty-eighth and return on the fourth next month, so I'll need to be there for one full week and a night. I doubt the length of their trip and Polly Tessa's deadline are a mere coincidence. Not that it matters, after being passed in Parliament every bill needs to pass Royal Review as well. I am starting to wonder when she will send me a copy of this secret bill. It occurred to her that she had begun to think of Polly Tessa as the face of the Club Elite, discounting the others as her subordinates.

Twilight poured herself a second cup and considered more lighthearted things. I still can't believe Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie are dating, she marveled at the announcement they gave their close friends yesterday. I'm glad I let them settle their problems on their own, though they must be unsure of themselves if they don't want everypony to know about it yet. I wonder if Rarity and I should say something about our... relationship for lack of a more specific term. Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash probably already have some idea, but AJ and Fluttershy are completely in the dark. After I finish my chores, I should pay her a visit and discuss it with her; maybe she'll want to come along to Canterlot as well. Once she had finished with her coffee, it was time to give her assistant a wake up call and review the day's to-do list.

“Spi~ke!” she called up to the loft, “it's time to wake up. I need some help getting organized this morning.” She paused and listened, but didn't hear anything. “I've already made breakfast!” This time she could hear the rustling of fabric. “I bought diamond dust yesterday; you can sprinkle some into your cereal!” Finally, she could make out the sound of clawed feet dragging across the floor. I'll need to remember to place a scratch-resistance charm on the floor of our room in the castle. Twilight chuckled as she made the mental note, remembering what happened to her parents hardwood floors the first time Spike had stayed there. It had been less funny at the time. She watched Spike descend the stairs and make for the kitchen.

“Good morning!” she chirped, to which he responded with a wave and a grunt. She just stifled a laugh. He's never been a morning person. While she waited for Spike to eat and finish waking up, Twilight used her magic to float the to-do list over to the table and perused it. One section, in particular:

Monday July 25th

Prepare for week long stay in Canterlot

Compose checklist of items to pack

Compose itinerary of royal duties and recreational activities

Review and revise checklist of items to pack based on completed itinerary

Schedule appointments in Canterlot based on itinerary

Review and revise itinerary based on availability of appointments

Make arrangements for Golden Oaks Library to be managed in my absence

The only other section of the list, daily chores, was short since she would be leaving town soon. Only a week at home before being recalled to Canterlot, she thought. Well, only a week away before coming back home again as well. It could be worse. I could be involved in a political scheme that is unfolding even now. Twilight grimaced and tried to think of more pleasant things. I guess I should add 'Invite Rarity to accompany me to Canterlot' to this list. Spike joined her as she squeezed the small addition into the blank space left between the sections. She tried to ignore his bad manners when he began reading over her shoulder.

“We're asking Rarity to come along?” he enthusiastically blurted out.

“Um, yes. I wanted some extra company in Canterlot, and I thought Rarity would be happy to-”

“Oh boy! While you're busy with official royal duties, we can go out and I'll show her all of the best stuff she missed when she didn't have a local guide!”

“I think she made some friends when she went right around my birthday last year. Not to mention the days leading up to Shining and Cadance's wedding.”

“Yeah, she met a bunch of stuffed shirt types. I mean all the really fun places in Canterlot where the big wigs and upper crust snobs don't bother going. When we were planning the wedding, there wasn't much time to show our friends around.”

“When we were planning the wedding?” Twilight teased. “I don't remember you doing much.”

“I was lending a claw the whole time. Ask anypony, all of our friends asked me for help at one point or another.”

“Heheheh, I know, I'm just picking on you. I'm sure she'll love seeing another side of Canterlot.”

Twilight was able to write her intended inventory and itinerary quickly with Spike's help. They were also able to successfully redirect his fire-breath spell to send correspondence to other recipients than Princess Celestia, and received confirmations for Twilight's appointments and secured a temporary librarian with the help of special stationary enchanted to return upon being burned.

“Yay! Now that we've proven my theory, we can potentially communicate nigh instantaneously with anypony!”

“Yay, now I get to be your mailbox all the time.”

“I won't use it very often, I promise.”

“Okay, what next? Can we go see Rarity now?”

Twilight hadn't actually considered that Spike would want to invite her himself. That should have been obvious, she reminded herself. “Um, sure. We'll take care of some other things while we're out, but we can go see her first.” I can just send him out on another errand after inviting her.

The bell above the door to the Carousel Boutique rang merrily as Twilight and Spike entered. The young dragon impatiently rushed in, eager to speak to his crush. “Rarity! Are you here?”

“Of course, darling,” she called from behind a rack of dresses on the far side of the room. “I've just been taking stock. Is Twilight with you?”

“Yes, I'm here-” Twilight began.

“Rarity, do you want to come with us to Canterlot for a week?” Spike interrupted.

“You just couldn't wait to ask, hmm?”

Spike blushed and chuckled softly. “S-so, what do ya say, Rarity?”

“Hm. I'll need to make some arrangements,” their fashion forward friend told them, “but I admit I was hoping to be invited along.”

“I'll help with anything you need, Rarity,” Spike gushed, practically jumping at the chance to do any little favor possible.

“I might need a little something done. Why don't you two come back into the stockroom with me?” Rarity gave Spike a simple task that seemed distracting enough without being particularly taxing. “Alright,” she whispered to Twilight as the two of them made their way back towards the showroom, “can I assume that you're inviting me for a specific reason?”

“I thought I'd need some support for what's coming. Have you heard from the Club Elite yet?”

“I'm expecting them soon. It's possible that they may not send word until after you've left for Canterlot, in which case I'll wait to join you until I've received word from them.” Rarity glanced back at Spike to be sure he was out of earshot. “You aren't addressing me with the respect I'm due. Do I need to punish you?”

“Spike's right there!” Twilight whispered. “Do you really want me to do it now?”

“Whenever we aren't likely to be overheard, and at all times during Club functions, you are to submit. It's your duty to me.” Rarity smirked before adding, “I can see how much you like it. You're blushing madly even now. Tell me so, my princess.”

“Y-yes, I do love it, M-mistress,” Twilight was forced to admit. “Although, I do want to ask you a few things about our relationship, my Lady.”

“Oh? What's on your mind, my dear?”

“W-well, I'm still not sure what to call us, Your Highness. I've begun to wonder if we should tell-”

The bell over the front door chimed and Rarity glanced around the doorway separating the two rooms. Her eyes went wide as she cut Twilight off. “SST! Shush, wait. Stay back here!” Rarity rushed over towards the visitor, while Twilight tried to watch without being seen.

Oh my gosh, it's her, Bell! The azure pegasus from the party had just come in, dressed in a flowy olive green dress and royal purple ascot. Her blonde mane was drawn back in a braid and her hazel eyes hidden by broad sunglasses. I can't believe she showed up while I was visiting. Is it a coincidence?

“Hello~? Ra~rity? Don't keep me waiting!”

“I'm right here, Radiance. No need to shout.”

“Ugh, don't ca~ll me that. A~ll of my friends use Radey these days. It's much cuter. And don't bother copying me; Rarey just sounds a~wful. It's the two 'r' sounds back to back.”

“I don't know whether to be more offended by the implication that my name sounds bad because of its consonants, or the notion that I would ever be inclined to imitate you. After all, you seem to be trying to resuscitate a long dead accessory with grotesque results.”

“Oh, hon,” Bell quipped with mock sympathy, “you don't need to be afraid of taking tips from others mo~re fashionably gifted than yourself, but when you try to drag ponies down to your o~wn level, well... it's unbecoming. Besides,” she added, “I don't kno~w what a constinant or a resustince is anyway.”

Oh goodness, Twilight observed, she's a complete imbecile.

“Who is this moron?” Spike whispered in Twilight's ear.

“AH-mmm,” Twilight covered her mouth and hoped Bell hadn't heard her cry out.

“Sorry. Feeling kinda jumpy?”

“I guess. This is somepony Rarity knows, she asked me to stay back here while she deals with it.”

“Can we please just get this over with?” Rarity pleaded with the air-headed paparazzi bait.

“Fine.” Bell revealed a manilla envelope that had been tucked under one of her wings. “He~re's the bill. You need to invite us to ano~ther Club thing if you want to discuss it or whatever.”

Rarity accepted the papers and told Bell that she'd receive an invitation through Club channels before long. It seemed to Twilight as though Rarity was struggling to be courteous. “Well, it's been... tolerable having you here. Now, I'd appreciate-”

“No~w, no~w. Don't chase me out just yet. I've go~t to pay you back.”

“Pardon?”

“For this little fa~vor. I'm going to make a spectacle of myself in one of your less tired garments.”

“I hardly-”

“Can you belie~ve that Ms. Rarity kicked me out of her shop without letting me buy a~nything? I'm not ever shopping there again and neither should anypony else!”

Rarity was absolutely seething. She trembled with anger for a moment before sighing and gesturing around the shop. “By all means,” she forced herself to say with strained pleasant tones, “browse to your hearts content, and let me know if you find anything to your liking.”

Twilight was fuming quietly as well. That horrible mare! How can she threaten anypony she likes without remorse? She doesn't even have her own periodical; she just spouts her nonsense and others do her dirty work for her! She wished she could do something to help. Bell was obviously hurting Rarity's pride, if not her business. Suddenly the smell of smoke reached Twilight's nose. She turned to look at Spike who was snorting small puffs of soot and smoke. She put a hoof on his shoulder and they exchanged meaningful glances; he looked down and crossed his arms in frustration.

After a few moments of Bell trotting around and making haughty noises, she settled on a tight white dress that came without sleeves, had a short skirt and was available with slits for wings. Rarity bagged it for her, she paid the normal price, and she left. Immediately after the door closed, Rarity magically pulled a throw pillow from nearby to her face and let out a muffled shout of pent up rage.

Twilight walked over to her and hugged her. “At least she's out of our manes.”

“For now, yes. It is going to be very satisfying if we can find something that will stick to her as well as Polly and Agit.”

“Um, guys?” Spike was standing at the window watching something that had apparently disconcerted him. Twilight and Rarity cantered over and looked out. Standing just outside the door, Bell Weather was shimmying out of her green dress in the most ridiculous way possible. Rather than undo the straps she had simply tugged it over her head and was now fighting her way out of it with her rump in the air. Photographers were snapping pictures as she did this.

Twilight could clearly see Bell's cutie mark of a magazine or tabloid. “Is she dumb, or just shameless?” Twilight pondered aloud.

“Both,” Rarity supplied.

“Wow. Why does she have her tail so high up?” Twilight tried to push Spike down where he couldn't see while Rarity rushed to cover his eyes with her hooves. “Aw, what? C'mon!”

Twilight wanted to explain properly, but the words eluded her. “Sorry Spike, but... just don't look.”

Aware of her own hypocrisy, Twilight looked back out at Bell. The spectacle continued as she reared up and placed her hoof against the wall. Once she was steady, she pulled her new dress out of the bag and stuffed the old one in. She tugged the garb over her head and began working it over her wings, swaying her backside as she did so. Finally dressed, she smoothed out the wrinkles and creases, adjusted her wings and straightened her ascot. Then she turned to the photographers and flirted briefly before flying away. She actually left her old dress here in the bag, Twilight noticed, bemused by what had just happened.

She was about to say something to Rarity, but the words caught in her throat when she saw her friend's expression. “Are you okay?” she asked instead, unsure how to read the odd mix of anger and sadness.

“It's not fair,” Rarity said calmly before she began wailing. “That awful ascot actually looked... looked... good with my dress!”

“Um, I'm sorry?”

“Just... just come back a little later so we can discuss things. I need some time to come to terms with this!” With that, Rarity collapsed on her fainting couch, and Twilight simply left with Spike in tow.

Twilight diligently went about finishing her chores and took Spike out to lunch. She then decided to head back so that she and Rarity would have time to go over the contents of the soon to be proposed bill. She gave Spike some spending money so he could amuse himself for the rest of the day and headed straight for her mistress' home.

“Hello, Rarity?” she called as she entered. “Are you busy?”

“In the back, my pet,” Rarity announced. “Why don't you head upstairs and I'll join you shortly. Would you like some tea?”

“Yes, please. Don't forget, we need to review the contents of the papers Bell delivered.”

“Of course,” Rarity agreed as she made her way into the main room. “And really, we can use her real name at this point. I'm sure... did I ever show you who she was?”

“I thought you couldn't?” Twilight bit her lip as she admitted to herself, I could probably have figured it out if I'd flipped through a few seedy magazines.

“Hm.” Rarity seemed agitated all of a sudden. She quickly sifted through a small stack of magazines left on a coffee table for customers to look at while waiting for service or accompanying friends to fittings. “This will do,” she muttered to herself when she selected a thick periodical titled The Manehatten Missive.

Twilight couldn't be sure, but it didn't seem the type to have scandalous pictures in it. “Are you sure there will be an article about her in this?” she asked when Rarity approached.

“Of course not!” Rarity declared rather defensively. “I wouldn't carry such trash in my boutique in any case.” She rolled the Missive up tightly and lifted Twilight's chin with it. “I chose this journal because it uses high-quality, dense paper and always produces thick volumes each month. It is ideal for disciplining subs who continue to neglect addressing their doms appropriately.”

Twilight's ears folded back and her cheeks burned with embarrassment. “I'm sorry, Mistress,” she squeaked. “I was distracted by our business with the Club Elite.”

“Mm, even so. Here, the folder Bell Weather delivered is behind the counter. Why don't you fetch it for me, like a good filly?”

Twilight walked behind the counter and knelt on her front legs to look for it, fully expecting what came next. The rolled up paper made contact with her bottom and produced a satisfying clap. “MM-HM,” she grunted. “I can't seem to find it, Mistress.” Another sharp tap on her rump. “OH, mm. My Lady, I'm not certain, but it doesn't seem to be here.” Rarity struck her again. “A~hn. Are you quite sure it is here, Your Highness?”

Rarity gasped with melodramatic zeal. “Are you questioning your dom? You are such” *smack* “a naughty” *slap* “mare!” *whap*

“AH-HA! Oh, yes, Mistress. I'm very bad! OH! OH! Make me respect you, My Queen!”

“I suppose the tea will have to wait. However,” Rarity teased with a slightly malicious tone, “I'm going to have to deny you your fun as well, as we really must attend to the task at hand.” Rarity lowered her head to look under the counter. “Oh. Um, it seems the folder isn't here.”

“That's okay, Mistress. I hadn't really looked yet.”

“Naughty.” Rarity lightly tapped Twilight on the forehead with the paper.

They quickly located the papers in Rarity's back room and proceeded upstairs. Twilight settled into the armchair to read, but Rarity clicked her tongue at her and started tapping a hoof when Twilight looked up. “Um, yes, Mistress?”

“Are you going to come in, sit in my chair and just ignore me?”

“Er, I thought we were going to read this? T-together, I mean, Mistress.”

“Yes, but that's the only chair in here.”

“Did you want to read in bed?”

Rarity abruptly levitated the folder away from Twilight and put the crimson collar she had chosen on her sub's neck. “Down. Sit.” Twilight slipped from the chair and sat on her haunches beside it. She watched as Rarity made herself comfortable in the chair and opened the document. “You may get a cushion to sit on from the closet.”

Twilight set about collecting a pillow when she heard Rarity let out an exasperated sigh. “What's wrong, Lady Rarity?”

“It's these legislative papers. The wording is nigh impossible to comprehend. I fear that we may be trying to make sense of it for the rest of the day.”

Twilight took her place beside Rarity and rested her forehooves on the arm of the chair. She looked over the front of the bill.

Bill No.: 1002.12.4

Draft Contributors: Al Truist, Plmt. HoC; Florence Blossomworth, Plmt. HoN;

Fresh Ink, Plmt. HoC; Gilded Lilac, Plmt. HoN; High Born, Plmt. HoN;

Honor Bound, Plmt. HoC; Lasting Will, Plmt. HoN; Lacy Silk, Plmt. HoN;

Maverick Heart, Plmt. HoC

New Equestrian Weather Zoning Protocol

A Bill to be entitled an Act for

the instauration of Equestrian Weather Services on the basis and merit of locally

determined need.

Preface: The current state of Equestrian Weather Services is based on the oversight

of a central authority which has shewn to be capable of maintaining stability through

carefully orchestrated operations on a national level. This system is inherently limited

to the foresight and judgment of its administrators who, in the majority of cases,

have conceived of only sustained cyclical patterns of growth and remission. It is the

opinion of this committee that the continued growth of Equestrian resources through

controlled weather conditions is desirable at rates to be determined by those individuals

in closest proximity to the resources in question.

The following sections consisted of lengthy, jargon heavy explanations of the intended effect of the bill, methods of implementation and enforcement, budget considerations and the schedule for putting it into effect. Existing laws which contradicted with it were listed and decreed to be null and void in the event that the bill passed.

“So... they want to decentralize Equestria's weather? Why is Polly Tessa so interested in this?”

“Well...” Rarity fidgeted for a moment, seemingly grappling with something she wanted to say. “The most straightforward way I can put it- erm, if you already knew who she was, you would be able to tell that...” Rarity furrowed her brow as she trailed off.

“Let me guess. One of these names is either hers or the name of somepony close to her.”

Rarity paused briefly. “I can't say anymore about that. What I will say is that her motivations for dipping her hooves into this matter aren't clear to me either. She, or somepony who is doing something for her in exchange, must expect to benefit from this bill.”

“Before we get too far into this, there are a few things I want to ask you about, Mistress.” Rarity cocked her head and looked intently at Twilight. “I'm just not sure where we're headed. I mean, are we going to let our friends know about our relationship? And what exactly are we to each other at this point anyway?”

“We're two very good friends who enjoy each others company more intimately when in private. More specifically, we are mistress and – let's say servant. I don't see the need to advertise any of this.”

“My Queen, with all due respect, you can't still expect 'friends with benefits' to be accurate when we have such a strong dominate and submissive dynamic going. I love doing this. It's weird and humiliating and a little scary, but it makes me so excited and I feel like-” Twilight struggled to find the words; she'd been trying to understand why it made her so happy since it started and until now the exact reason had eluded her. “It just feels right having somepony else give me direction. I never expected to be thrust into the position I've been given, I had always assumed that I'd be a professor – researching and teaching, or a royally appointed mage. I'm honored and proud to be given more responsibility than that, but it's a daunting prospect. Taking instructions like I used to when I was just a student really helps me escape all the stress and have fun.” Twilight could feel how hot her face had become as she spoke and realized that she'd looked away from Rarity. She forced herself to make eye contact again. “You don't have to be shy about using a word like slave,” she whispered.

Rarity was also blushing and biting her lip as well. “You don't know how wonderful it is to hear you say these things, my perfect princess. Come closer.” Rarity leaned forward as Twilight stood, and they exchanged a passionate kiss. Rarity stroked Twilight's cheek and pressed her hoof into her sub's mane. They broke their kiss, but Rarity held Twilight's face close to her own. “Perhaps there is room for more passion than I first thought, but it's still too early to say.”

“Mistress, I'm concerned about our friends finding out before we tell them. Celestia forbid Spike discovers it, he'd-”

“Please,” Rarity said forcefully, “we can't decide on this right now. I need a little time to figure out my own feelings and besides...” Rarity let go and sat back. She levitated the discarded papers in front of herself. “We have much more pressing concerns at the moment.”

Twilight was disappointed. Is she trying to avoid talking about this, or is she just concerned with what we're trying to accomplish? Is she embarrassed to admit that there's something between us? She was the one who wanted me in the first place! I can tell she wants more than just sex and flattering wordplay. What if the only reason she's been doing this is to string me along so I'll help her – NO! I won't let myself doubt her like that. She's one of my best friends and... maybe more. Though she was still upset, Twilight decided to focus on the task at hand.

The two mares began to carefully comb the bill, occasionally stopping to look up the meaning of certain words and attempt to determine how some phrases were meant to be interpreted. Twilight began to feel discouraged when she checked the time and found that it was almost dusk. “I don't know if we'll get anywhere like this. I can't find any kind of irrelevant passages that were included to benefit a single individual or group.”

“Which must mean that Polly somehow expects to gain something from the new law itself.”

“I don't see how. Let's sum up what the bill is saying.”

“Alright, a quick review of what we've learned can't hurt, I suppose.”

“It never does, Mistress. The bill wants to eliminate central authority over Equestria's weather. Instead, it is trying to define 'Weather Zones' based on population and local government.”

“Which might mean that Polly is trying to take control of the weather in her home, although I doubt it.”

“Same here. First of all, each zone is required to take a simple majority vote to determine whether or not to continue using federal weather services or privatize it. Those that opt out of privatizing it will carry on as though nothing had changed, but the others will receive a tax cut so they can pay contractors to manage the weather.”

“So it might be that she wants to make a profit from owning a new company that handles weather, but that isn't really her style. She's not a businessmare.”

“Not to mention there isn't an infrastructure for private weather management yet. Nor are there any laws governing it. It just hasn't ever been done before. The bill almost literally says that such laws should be written in response to itself passing first.”

“Doesn't this seem entirely unnecessary to you?” Rarity wondered aloud. “I mean, why would any city want its weather relegated to the private sector? To save money?”

“The bill suggests that a town or city could make more independent decisions. I guess that makes some sense. It would be up to the ponies living there if they wanted to change and how to do things differently. Presumably, they wouldn't want to change unless they knew what they were doing.”

“You might be putting too much faith in the average pony. Earth ponies and unicorns can't affect weather at all and most pegasi aren't involved in weather.”

“True, but communities in which agriculture is important, such as Ponyville, often involve as many ponies as possible in big events like Winter Wrap Up. Those are the sort of places this law is written for.”

“Maybe so. Although, it's not the community as a whole, but the local representatives that will make these decisions. For Ponyville, that would essentially be the Mayor's office. Ponies like us and our friends wouldn't have any direct say.”

Twilight furrowed her brow and tried to fit the puzzle pieces together. “Rarity, my Queen,” Twilight added with a blush, “why do you think Polly Tessa would want to change weather in any part of Equestria? Regardless of whether or not it was a good change.”

“I don't think she would care. There must be an ulterior motive. Something less direct.”

“A favor?” Twilight posited, remembering the vague offer Polly had given her.

“Possibly, though Polly is more often in the business of collecting favors than repaying them. I'd sooner expect she's doing this to gain something than pay somepony back.”

“So if we want to understand what's going on, we'll need more information.”

“I'm afraid it seems that way. We do have a few good leads, though.”

“The contributors on the bill?”

“As well as anyone involved in making private weather contractors a profitable venture. I'll ask around and see if anyone knows about such a thing.”

“Meanwhile, I can interact with these legislators as Princess.”

“Before we can proceed, we must decide: will we help this bill pass? Since Bell Weather delivered it before you have to leave, we can make arrangements to meet the Club Elite here in Ponyville again. It will be better for us than meeting in Canterlot; there they have certain advantages. Spies, privately owned Club venues, and even corrupt officials within and without The Club.”

“They really do make use of The Club regularly, don't they?”

“Club Elite is not just a cute nickname. Registrars and enforcers are well aware of their activities. They simply have not done anything that is against Club rules. Rather, there is no evidence that they have broken the rules.”

“Wait, I need to leave in three days – less, now that it's so late. I can't wait past Thursday morning. When are we going to have them come here?”

“It will have to be tomorrow or the next day. Believe me, it will be far better for us if we meet them before you go. It shouldn't be too troublesome to convince Pinkie to host another event.”

“I guess we can't really wait till tomorrow to ask her?”

Rarity telekinetically put the bill away and gave Twilight a coy look. “Why, my darling princess, whatever did you have in mind this evening?”

“My Lady, we've been alone all these hours and haven't relieved one another's most basic needs. I'll need to return home at some point; I'd much prefer to do so after attending to you, Your Highness.”

Rarity bit her lip and fidgeted for a moment before kicking her hooves in frustration. “Oh, curse your seductive ways! When did my demure, bookish friend become this wicked, tempting thing?”

“You really like it when I talk that way, don't you, Mistress?”

“Ah, don't start again. We really must make haste – I mean we need to see Pinkie right away! If we still have time after, we can play.”

*Sigh* “Very well, Lady Rarity,” Twilight conceded as she used her magic to find the clasp on her collar. “Lead the way.”

“Hold a moment.” Rarity placed her hoof over the collar as she spoke. “Suppose, for a moment, that I wanted you to wear this in the meanwhile?”

“Outside?” Twilight squeaked.

Rarity blushed a bit and smiled a tad shamelessly. “Just briefly. It won't take long to get there and back.”

“But-”

“It's getting late, most ponies have gone home.”

“Anypony who saw us – even one lonesome mare or stallion – would recognize me, and if they saw this collar...”

“On our way back it will be dark and besides, it could just be a bold fashion statement.” Rarity's breathing was becoming a bit heavy as she considered it. Twilight's was as well, but she assumed that was for a different reason.

“What if Mr. and Mrs. Cake see it? I don't want to have that conversation. Or lack thereof. What if they don't say anything just to be polite, but later they ask each other, 'Did you see it? That wasn't very appropriate. I never thought she was that kind of mare.'”

“That's just silly, darling. I'm sure that married couples do all sorts of things to keep their love lives fresh.”

“I-” Twilight inadvertently pictured Mrs. Cake licking frosting off of intimate places on Mr. Cake's body. “Agh, ah!” I'm never going to get this image out of my head am I?

“What's wrong?”

“N-nevermind.”

“Well, I get final say in any case. I demand that you wear the collar.”

Twilight pressed her lips together and gave a pleading look, but Rarity only raised an eyebrow and inclined her head towards her. “Mistress, you know I want to obey-”

“Then do as I say.”

“It's just that... My Queen, please don't make me do this.”

“Do you deny that you want to?”

“It's so risky.”

“I don't think so. It's not a collar meant for pets. It's an accessory.”

“It's humiliating.”

“You love that, don't you? Being forced to embarrass yourself. Being humbled and debased for my pleasure.”

Twilight's heart raced and her marehood began to flow and throb. “I... I do,” she admitted softly.

Pinkie Pie perked up when she heard the bell ring and waved her friends over. “Hiya, Rarity, heyo, Twilight!”

“Good evening, Pinkie Pie.”

Twilight panted and shuffled over, with her head bowed forward and her tail between her legs. “H-hi, Pinkie.”

“Oh no, are you okay, Twi? You look really sweaty. And red.”

“Um, are the Cakes around?”

“Upstairs. They're tucking Pound and Pumpkin in. I'm a~ll alone down here for like, another 15 minutes, at least. Or I was. Now you girls are here! Boy, am I glad, too. I've been kinda down today-”

“Darling, I'm afraid we've come to ask you a favor.”

“O~H,” Pinkie loudly exclaimed as though she'd just understood a joke. “Does Twi need the restroom? You shoulda just asked when you came in, silly filly.”

“Um, th-that's-”

“She's just a bit worked up since I made her come here wearing a collar that signifies her as my sub,” Rarity interjected, causing Twilight's face to turn an even more vibrant shade and making Pinkie giggle. “Actually, we need you to throw another party.” Pinkie's face fell suddenly. “That is, if it's not too much trouble... I mean, we need it in the next two days, but I'll make it up to you.”

The practically perpetually pert party pony surprised both Rarity and Twilight by tearing up and putting her head in her hooves. “Oh, girls. I don't think I can do that.”

Recovering from her arduous walk at the sight of Pinkie being so forlorn, Twilight winked behind the counter and put her foreleg across Pinkie's shoulders. “Pinkie, what's wrong? It's not the end of the world if you can't put it together in time.”

“It... it's not that.”

“Darling,” Rarity said in soothing tones, while she leaned over the counter and placed her hoof on one of Pinkie's, “if it's to do with the awful ponies we've been in contact with, I can assure they won't-”

“No, no. It's not the party itself, or who's coming. It's... it's...”

“You can tell us, Pinkie.”

“Whatever is troubling you, we can help.”

“It's who won't be there.”

“Er, I don't know what you mean.” Twilight looked to Rarity, but she only shrugged.

“Rainbow Dash, she doesn't want me to throw these parties or do other Club stuff. It's 'cause she wants me to herself, and I totally get that, it's fine. But, I promised her that I wouldn't do anything intimate with other ponies at Club parties and she still said no. I told her that if she signed up she wouldn't have to do anything with anypony else and she could keep an eye on me, but that just turned into an argument about trying to get her into The Club and she left all mad, and, and...” Pinkie trailed off and choked back a sob. “I need some time to figure this out. I'm sorry girls, but Dashie and I just need to do this on our own.”

“We understand,” Rarity assured. “Don't worry about a thing. I can host an event myself, most likely Wednesday night. If you and Rainbow Dash sort this out before then, you are both welcome. Depending on what agreement you come to, of course.”

Twilight and Rarity both wished Pinkie Pie good luck before leaving. They started back towards Rarity's home, troubled by the unexpected turmoil. Twilight was the first to speak: “I'm a little surprised that they're already fighting. Then again, Dash was avoiding Pinkie for a while there. Maybe this was inevitable, since she doesn't want anything to do with The Club.”

“I'm sure it's not as simple as that. Pinkie is often less than careful with her words. I suspect that neither one of them is very good at defusing rising emotions before an argument breaks out.”

Twilight decided to change the subject. “So, now I get to see what one of your parties is like, hm?”

“Yes. I'll need to put together a soirée in time. The events will be far more subdued, and may require more of my attention. I will be certain not to leave you alone in our adversaries' presence, however.”

“Is there anypony who can help host for you?”

“I'm sure one of my guests would be more than willing to relieve me for a few minutes. I'll ask a few ahead of time, to be sure.”

“Do you need any help setting up?”

“Not right away. I'll ask Play Date to distribute invitations and purchase a few simple essentials tomorrow. I hope you weren't asking because you intend to slip away just yet this night. At the very least, walk me home so I can admire your collar in the moonlight for a spell.”

Twilight's cheeks were nearly the color of the collar itself upon realizing that she was wearing it out in public again. Her tail raised for a second before she caught herself and tucked it over her marehood. “I-I forgot.” Her ears flattened, she tilted her neck forward and one of her hooves shot up to the small strap.

Rarity chuckled at the adorably shy display. “Oh, do have more confidence than that, my dear.” Rarity pressed against Twilight's side and crooked her head under the blushing alicorn's chin. She forced Twilight to straighten up and nuzzled her for a moment before they continued walking. “There's not a soul around, and even if there were, you've nothing to fear. Only those who know of our relationship would understand the significance.”

“Why did you have to mention it to Pinkie Pie?”

“Don't be silly, my princess. Pinkie is a fellow Club member and would have discovered in short order that we had formally declared that aspect of our relationship within The Club.”

“Still, you didn't have to bring it up then. Or do it so bluntly.”

“Don't deny you enjoyed the attention. Just be glad Pinkie is the only pony who saw it the first time you wore it in front of others.”

“First time?”

“You'll be wearing it at the party in two days' time.” Twilight opened her mouth to speak, but Rarity cut her off. “Don't bother objecting or complaining. You know full well that you want it. More importantly, I want it. Also, we don't have time to fully enjoy ourselves this evening, but I need to discipline you for being lax in your decorum.”

“My decorum?”

“You've been resistant and haven't been addressing me properly all evening. There will be no further discussion regarding the collar, and you will come inside my home to receive your punishment.”

Twilight remained quiet while they walked the rest of the way to the boutique. This is ridiculous. Taking orders is one thing, but this embarrassment? Why am I subjecting myself to this? The soft patter of her own liquid arousal dripping on the ground reached her ears for the second time that evening, reminding her of the answer. Sweet Celestia, I must be a masochist. Well, obviously. I allowed myself to be spanked earlier and invited more of it. How can a pony that often finds herself in the role of a leader be so submissive? Is it just escapism, or do most powerful ponies get off on feeling powerless? They rounded a corner and the front of the Carousel Boutique came into view; Twilight felt her excitement grow in anticipation of what was about to come. Despite herself, she swished her tail back and forth, fanning the scent of her privates in the lukewarm night air. Oh, it doesn't matter. It works. I can't apply a better understanding of it any more effectively than what Rarity already does to me. I should just enjoy it. Twilight knew full well that wouldn't stop her curiosity, but it was enough for now. Enough to let herself have tonight, anyway.

Things happened much more quickly once they were inside. Rarity had her bent over a mannequin and tied her front hooves to the back ones, trailing the cords under the dummy. Twilight bit down hard on a cloth gag and braced herself for impact. Her mistress started intimately, roughly caressing the backs of her thighs and buttocks between striking with bare hooves. Twilight's voice rumbled up from her chest and was muffled by the gag. Her throat was already sore by the time Rarity began biting her labia and clit, tormenting her pussy while continuing to smack her bum. Each slap made her jump, causing her Queen's teeth to pinch or slip off of her cunny. It was tender torture of the most wonderful kind.

Twilight was drowning in pain and pleasure by the time her mistress stopped to get some toys. The short reprieve barely allowed Twilight to collect her thoughts before Rarity set in again, more relentless than before. A small paddle, just large enough to harass one cheek of her rump at a time, began beating out a rhythm. A pair of cold, metal clamps bit into her lower lips, which Rarity tugged on without mercy. Her dom gripped the base of her tail and pulled up, forcing her to stretch her legs. A slick, magically-heated plug assailed her asshole, stuffing her and making her twitch and dance from the deliciously uncomfortable sensations. Twilight was quickly approaching her limit when it suddenly stopped. The clamps were removed, the gag and plug came free of her mouth and posterior. There was no more spanking, nibbling or coarse strokes. She opened her eyes to look at Rarity. “Please.”

“What are you pleading for, my pet?”

“Mistress, please don't stop.”

“I was afraid you might be enjoying it.”

“Please, Your Highness.”

“You really are quite the masochist, Twilight Sparkle. I'll have to find something better. Perhaps sensory deprivation? More restrictive bondage? How can I impress upon you the importance of respecting me?”

“Oh, I do, Mistress. I respect you and love you more than-”

Rarity pressed her hoof over her sub's mouth. It was a long moment before she spoke, and when she did her voice was quiet and emotional. “Don't say that. I'm not sure I'm ready to be... Ready to hear that, or to say it.” In spite of her words, she was smiling and tearing up just slightly. “Besides, I need to send you home now. It's too late for you to be away. Spike will worry about you.” The binding ropes came loose and fell to the floor.

Twilight clambered higher on the model to wrap her forelegs around Rarity's neck and kiss her deeply. “Okay, we'll save this for later. I do want to talk about it, though. It's important.”

“I know, and I want to as well. Although, I think it may have to wait until we have dealt with our current predicament. I don't want this political business to spoil it.”

“Promise me, my Queen. Promise to your princess that once our enemies lay in ruin, we shall declare the love we already consummate.”

“Mn! You minx!” Rarity squealed with unashamed delight. “Of course, I promise. Ah, I love it when you talk like that. I've read too many classical era romance novellas, haven't I?”

“Who hasn't?” Twilight observed before pressing her lips to Rarity's once more.

Author's Note

I'm not sure what to even say in my defense. This took much longer than I had anticipated. I seem to be incapable of writing short chapters, except for when I am.

I'd like to ask my audience another question this time around: How many of you are here for clop with context, and how many are here for a story and just aren't bothered by clop or consider it a bonus?

On another note, look it's everyone's favorite thing: an obnoxious OC! Also, speculation about how the Equestrian government works! Those are things people like to read about, right? If anyone's wondering, I will explain what the shorthand in the bill meant when it said HoN and HoC soon. Plmt is just short for parliament, but that was probably a bit obvious. Aw, what the heck, why not give it away now? Hall of Nobility and Hall of Commons are the two major sections of parliament in this story. A more thorough explanation is forthcoming. Oh, BTW, the bill number signifies that this is the 1002nd parliament, it is meeting for the twelfth time, and this is the fourth bill to be approved for proposal this session.

As always, please let me know what you think and help me catch technical errors. I know it's tempting to lurk and treat likes or favorites as the main means of giving feedback; I'm bad at expressing my opinions all the time. However, any comment means a lot to me, because it helps me understand what my readers think and want. So please, feel free to chat me up. I'm only a tad creepy, I swear!

Chapter 11: The Deal

Warning: Rubber suit fetishism and sensual touching followed by a big helping of support characters and a healthy dose of story progression. All clop fodder is in the beginning, hopefully it isn't too painful to skim or too short to titillate.

“Is this really necessary?” Twilight Sparkle asked with trepidation in her voice. “It's not just me, is it? This seems like a bit much.”

Rarity continued taking the most precise measurements she could of her friend and lover. “Now, now. There's no need to be so reluctant, my dear. Your nervousness is making you forget the importance of hiding yourself from our enemies' sight, and of obeying my command. For that matter...” Rarity made a loop with the measuring tape and smartly whipped Twilight's rump.

“Ah! We decided that wasn't a very effective punishment, Mistress, remember?” Twilight pointed out with impish delight.

“Indeed, but there's no time for exploring alternatives. Everything must be ready by tonight, so that you may leave tomorrow morning. Now, hold still and don't object.”

Twilight reviewed their predicament in her mind, to preoccupy herself. Tomorrow, I have to take up the mantle of Regent of Canterlot in Princess Celestia and Princess Luna's absence. Rarity is hosting a Club party in Ponyville tonight, so that we can discretely meet the Club Elite outside of Canterlot. I have to agree to support the bill and let Polly Tessa know what to expect now, otherwise we'll be forced to face them on their home turf. Between concealing my identity and making them think my Club persona has some influence over who I really am, these circumstances are risky enough without giving them the chance to call the shots on this little rendezvous. Twilight's concentration was broken by the soft, elastic sound of a long roll of latex being unwound slowly.

She watched Rarity stretch out and cut the material with meticulous care. The collar had been one thing. When Rarity decided to up the ante and simultaneously give Twilight a new excuse to keep her entire body well-hidden, it hadn't gone over well. It still hadn't gone over at all. There's no other way of looking at it, Twilight thought to herself as she watched Rarity cut the fabric into form-fitting shapes using the measurements she'd just taken. Rarity is going to put me in a gimp suit. The purple princess wasn't looking forward to the sweaty, squeaky, claustrophobic experience. Not to mention looking like that, or rather not looking like anypony at all, in front of all of Rarity's guests and the Club Elite. A certain warm tingle ran through her loins at the thought of having her identity stricken from her at the behest of her dom. It was kinky and exciting, regardless of it's practicality. It's like I'm just her possession; something to be used without consideration or remorse. She shuddered warmly.

“You're being quiet.”

“Oh, sorry. I'm just deep in thought, my Queen.”

Rarity stalked around her sub in a tight circle, stopping to smell the fragrant rose which had begun to perfume the workshop. “Hmm. Deep in thought about what exactly?”

Twilight felt a rush of pleasure when she noticed her lover appreciating her scent. “Erm, thinking about... tonight.”

“M-hm,” Rarity hummed in an inquisitive tone.

“Uh, I was thinking about the outfit you're making for me.”

“Looking forward to it?”

“I can't decide, Mistress.”

“Well, perhaps this will help.” Rarity levitated the pieces she had cut and allowed them to brush across Twilight's sides as she carried them by. She assembled them around a mannequin, to demonstrate the shape. The pieces seemed too large, and Twilight suddenly realized something.

“Hold on. I can't remember for certain, but I didn't think latex clothing had obvious seams. How are you stitching this together?”

“Your curiosity always gets the better of you.”

“Huh?”

“I shan't answer your questions, if you can't be respectful when you ask them.”

“Oh.” Twilight blushed. “I'll get better about that, Mistress, I promise. Please tell me, Your Highness, how do you sew the pieces together?”

Rarity laughed softly as she organized the sections of latex on her worktable. “Your first mistake is assuming that I intend to sew anything. You saw how the sections overlap slightly on the dress form? One typically fashions the seams of latex garments using adhesive between the layered edges.”

“Oh. I suppose that makes more sense.”

“However, I have a more unique approach. I devised a spell to adhere latex together, saving time, money and mess. I'd teach it to you, but...” Rarity gave her sub a wry smile. “I do like to keep a few secrets to myself.”

“I'd probably get very little use out of it anyway, my Lady. Although, to be frank, it doesn't add much mystique to you.” Twilight smirked when Rarity gave her an annoyed look.

“Do I need to order you to be silent while I work?”

“You could always put my mouth to better use, Mistress.”

“The idea is to let me concentrate, you naughty thing! Be still a while and I'll have a bold new look for you.”

It wasn't long before the pieces of the suit came together. It was actually a pair of garments. One covered every part of her except for her wings, eyes and mouth, and was skin-tight with a zipper up the back and metal studs to either side. The other was like a jacket with belts which could be fastened to restrain the pony inside. The latter attached to the catsuit with sockets that snapped onto the studs. The entire ensemble was pitch black and shiny. Rarity insisted that Twilight try it on immediately.

“Darling,” Rarity said quietly, “You are stunning.”

“I, uh, I feel hot.” Twilight shivered warmly. “It's... in a good way.” Twilight looked herself over in the mirror. Her mane was tucked neatly into the headpiece. My horn seems larger without the bangs on either side. She turned to look at the length of her body. It hides my wings well. Her tail was tied into a knot and tucked into the suit. She turned back and stared at what little of her face was reflected. With some eye shadow and lipstick I would be totally unrecognizable. “I don't suppose you intend for me to wear black makeup?”

Rarity purred into her ear, “Eye shadow, mascara and a very shiny lip gloss. All black as night.” Twilight started fidgeting, so Rarity held her tightly. “Let's test these, shall we?” she asked while tugging on the belts with her magic.

The front of the jacket fastened with three short belts. The sleeves bent in half, drawing Twilight's ankles up to her shoulders, and two belts on either side of her chest wrapped around to her back and held her limbs in place. Finally, a long belt attached to each of her elbows was drawn tight across her back, interlocking through loops on either belt and buckling in place on the opposite side. It made it impossible for her to move one foreleg without tugging on the other. “I feel like I'm wearing a straightjacket.”

“Perfect. Now let's get you all dolled up.” Rarity sat Twilight in a chair facing a vanity where she had a great many beautification products. “Just relax, I'll do all the work.”

“Is that meant to be a double en-” Twilight's remark was cut short by a stern look from her dom.

She settled into the chair and allowed Rarity to give her a monochrome makeover. “Close your eyes, darling.” Twilight could feel the gentle touch of a brush making deft strokes over and around her eyelids, the soft bristles felt unexpectedly soothing. A pause, then Rarity began speaking softly to herself, “A bit severe. I'll blend it with some dark gray before the party. Or maybe a deep shade of blue. Hmm.” The feeling ceased and she could hear Rarity moving small glass and metal trinkets she assumed were makeup containers. She cracked open an eye just in time to see Rarity turn back around. “Tut, tut. Keep them closed, my dear.” The faint tickle of the smaller brush working the creases below her brow made her eyes flutter. “Hm hm hm, are we ticklish, my pet?”

“Maybe so, Mistress.”

Twilight heard Rarity giggle softly while smoothing out the blush just below her eyes. “Okay, you may open your eyes now.” Twilight watched Rarity weigh a few different mascara options before settling on a volumizing black. She twisted the lid off and continued spinning the wand inside the bottle with her magic. “Alright, tilt your head forward just so...” she said as she nudged Twi's horn with her hoof. “Look straight in front of you.” In the bottom of her peripheral vision the mascara wand wiggled side to side as it swept along her lashes. “No~w the other,” Rarity said softly as she twisted the wand inside the bottle and dragged it along the edge of the glass.

It's a little hard not to blink when somepony else is doing this, Twilight silently observed. She blinked several times and straightened back up after Rarity had finished below her eyes.

“Okay, now look at me.” They made eye contact as Rarity prepared to apply the mascara to her sub's upper lashes. It was clear when her focus was just above, carefully watching the wand. “Very good. It's coming out excellently.” Twilight struggled to keep her eyes forward and not watch the wand jiggle at the top edge of her sight. Finally, Rarity stepped back and set the bottle down.

“I'm happy with it, but I don't want you to look just yet. I want to do your lips first, so you'll get the whole effect at once.” She produced a small jar of gloss labeled New Moon Midnight, and lifted Twilight's chin with the tip of a hoof. “Close your eyes.” Rarity leaned in and kissed her princess, deeply and passionately. She broke away for a second, “One more, and hold it.” They kissed again before Rarity pulled back and Twilight held her mouth just as it was when she felt her dom. She kept her eyes closed as the gloss glided over her puckered lips. “There we are; nearly perfect. You may open your eyes again.”

Twilight looked into the mirror above the counter. My eyes somehow look larger with the surrounding coat and lashes darkened. It occurred to her how her vibrant eyes and shimmering black lips stood out like the gems Rarity embeds in clothing. The only visible parts of her face were now an accent rather than features of her own appearance. It's odd how may face almost seems... gone. A shiver ran through her. Blank, covered up- No. Wiped away. She began to fidget again, tugging her restraints and kicking her hind legs idly. “I'm so excited, Your Highness.”

“Mmn, we'll have to calm you down before the party, my sensual slave. But first, we need to polish you.”

“Polish?” Twilight breathed.

Rarity helped Twilight out of the chair and used her magic to support the front of her sub's body, whilst leading her. “Oh yes. You simply must shine brighter than any other tonight. You are mine, after all. I don't want to be outdone.” Rarity laid Twilight out over her worktable, half standing and half leaning on the wooden surface. A sheet of wax paper had been set out. “I'll be very thorough. You can expect a second coat at the last minute before our guests arrive.”

The guests. Twilight tried to imagine what it would be like. Rarity's an entirely different kind of host than Pinkie Pie. This party is going to be “small and intimate.” Everyone invited is part of a dom/sub relationship like ours. Her excuse is to show of that I'm with her now. That I belong to her. Twilight began to pant without realizing it. Her hind hooves danced absent mindedly on the floor. I wonder if all the doms are going to be showing off their subs. Treating it like an exhibition.

Her thoughts were interrupted by the weight of Rarity's hooves pressing into her back. She looked over her shoulder, but was immediately reprimanded. “Stay still, Twilight. Let your Queen work.” A soft trickling met the young alicorn's ears followed by a slick, wet sound as she felt hooves deftly massage her back in little circles that were gradually growing larger. Those hooves worked their way down to her rump and hips, rubbing slowly and firmly. Her thighs and sex received little attention by comparison; they were given a quick once over before Rarity moved to her calves. I don't know if that's kindness or cruelty. Rarity ran her hooves up the outside of Twilight's legs and curved forward to her flanks.

“Rarity...” Twilight whined as she started twitching again.

“Yes, darling?”

“I'm getting really worked up.”

“Oh, I know. Relax, my pet, I'll attend to you after a bit more teasing.”

Twilight could hear more polish being applied and felt the difference as Rarity's hooves glided smoothly along her sides and under her belly. The feeling of being rubbed down everywhere was becoming unbearable. Twilight put her head down on the desk and tried to meditate on her breathing, but she felt so sensitive and so hot. Pressure and soft, moist sounds on her shoulders caused tingly feelings to start at her scalp and run down the length of her back. Restless hooves lifted her just above the surface of the table and smeared polish across her chest. Rarity's face was beside Twilight's now; she held Twilight in an awkward embrace while trying to reach every inch of the smooth, black surface without getting much polish in her own fur. Twilight could feel herself polishing the inside of the suit, matting her fur and running down her legs.

“Nearly done, just your head now. Relax and enjoy yourself. It's so much better to take one's time and savor every moment.”

I feel like she's massaging my mind right out of my ears.

“Isn't it so nice to just lay still and let your owner shine you up? You are my perfect, pristine, polished princess.”

“Am I pretty, too?”

“Well, I can see my reflection in you, so... yes.” Rarity teased as she applied one more dollop of the polish to Twilight's horn. She was determined to make the spiral ridge shine brilliantly and gripped the horn with both hoof and magic. No sooner had she begun to work her way down the magical extremity than Twilight gasped and her head shot back up.

“Oh, Rarity! Yes, Mistress!”

“Is your horn really this sensitive?”

“It is when you press down on it like that!” Twilight said in a rush. Her need and excitement very plain.

Rarity allowed the liquid to drip down to the base and trickle across her sub's forehead. She then placed her hooves on either side of Twilight's horn and began to rub in little circles, pushing into the place where the delicate, yet powerful appendage connected to her skull.

“O~h ha ha uhah hah!”

“You seem to have a sweet spot right here.” Rarity twisted the tips of her hooves into the base of Twilight's horn for emphasis.

“R-Rarity~♥”

“I've never heard you purr quite like this.”

“I... I... mm g-gonna – o~h, yes.”

Rarity backed off, and rubbed much more gently. “Twilight, no! Not in your-”

“OH! SUN AND STARS ABOVE!” Twilight's legs went numb and she slid backward off the worktable, taking the wax paper with her. Rarity caught her and laid her down gently. The room was topsy-turvy and her head felt like it was floating. She could hear her own heart and Rarity's breath and everything felt warm and tingly. A moment later, everything came back into proper focus. “I, uh, kind of went on a trip just then. I'm sorry, Mistress. By the time I heard you tell me not to, I was already over the edge.”

“That's quite alright, my darling,” Rarity told her in soothing tones. She began to pet Twilight's scalp, spreading the shimmery fluid over the last few dry spots. “Just be still for me while I finish up, and then you can prance about for me, so I can admire my hoofwork.”

Once Rarity had shined every last inch of Twilight's second skin, she undid the belts and fastened them back onto the sides of the jacket so they wouldn't trail. She helped Twilight up and ordered her to look into the mirror. Twilight was surprised by the effect, the shiny surface of her suit had made her appearance that much more lustrous and playful. It was as though she were a shiny new toy for Rarity to play with.

“Why don't you take a quick walk around the room so I can see how the suit fits you.”

“Will you tell me how the light plays off of me as well, Your Highness?” Twilight asked as she cantered around, lifting her legs high and holding her neck up straight.

“It's just gorgeous on you. How does it feel?”

“I feel ama-” Twilight's words cut short as she started to appreciate just how comfortable she actually was. The buzz from her orgasm had gone entirely, and now that she was satiated her body began to complain. It was hot in the suit, she was sticky with her own liquid love and sweat which held the latex against her in some very unfortunate ways. She could feel it pooling around her hooves and the material rode up between her hind legs. It was tight, too, and there was an odd smell now that she thought about it. “Ah.”

“Darling?”

“Actually, I'm not very comfortable.”

“And whose fault is that?”

“Um, mine. It's my fault, Mistress.”

“Do you want to take that off and shower while I clean it out for you?”

“I do.”

“I suppose I'll just have to reapply your makeup and polish you again.”

“I'm sorry, Mistress.”

“Don't be. I want to play with my new favorite doll again.”

It was nearly eight 'o clock, and the warm midsummer evening was finally starting to cool down. Twilight had followed Rarity to the large house owned by The Club itself, where not so long ago she had first encountered the Club Elite. The interior was sparsely yet tastefully furnished; it was familiar, but seemed strange now that it lacked Pinkie Pie's decorations. “What all do we need to do to prepare, my Lady?”

“Not much. Once I made the reservation with Play Date, I took it upon myself to stock the kitchen with the refreshments and hors d'oeuvres we'll serve, as well as make the little modifications to the private rooms that I typically do. I'm not in the habit of decorating these events.”

“So, we came a little early to be sure we'd be here when the first guests arrive?”

“Yes, and to give ourselves time to discuss the evening ahead. Besides, I had to have you outside before the sun had fully set. The way you glistened in the low light was marvelous.”

Twilight could still feel the heat on her cheeks. Her latex suit had insulated the warmth of her arousal and embarrassment well. “I don't know if I could have done that, had I thought somepony might recognize me. I'm just glad hardly anypony noticed us on the way here.”

“I did avoid the main streets for your sake. Oh, but did you see the young stallion with the turquoise coat?”

“Yes, his jaw dropped the moment he spotted us. Nothing else on his face changed, it was like everything froze except his mouth.”

“Hahah, he just gaped the whole time until we rounded the corner. You'd think he'd never seen a rubber pony before.”

“He probably hadn't, Mistress,” Twilight pointed out as her cheeks began to burn again. “I was probably the most interesting thing he's seen in some time.”

“Unusual, perhaps, but I like to think that my own getup is quite a sight.” Twilight had to agree, Rarity's clothes were certainly the kind that demanded attention. She wore a high-collared blazer-like jacket with a stunning paisley pattern of crimson, violet and gold. Underneath was a pale peach blouse, and the the ensemble was completed with a pleated red skirt of mirror velvet. “Ideally, all of our guests will be in their finest attire this evening. Well, the doms at any rate. Their subs should be in appropriate gear for thorough use.” As she said this, Rarity ran a hoof over Twilight's collar and smiled.

“Do you expect the other subs to be used much at our party?”

“Oh, I hope so. I discourage overly heavy petting or outright copulation in the main area, but partners and groups are more than welcome to make use of the many bedrooms on the second floor. I anticipate dominate friends showing off their pets' tricks to one another and a fair bit of trading.”

“Trading?” A funny tight feeling pinched somewhere in Twilight's chest. “Could you elaborate, Mistress?”

Rarity headed towards the kitchen as she spoke. “Come help me set up the banquet table while we discuss tonight's entertainment. If everything works out the way I planned, our substitute hosts won't need to do much while we take care of business in the back.”

“As you command, my Queen,” Twilight said, with some effort to keep calm, “but could you please explain what you meant by trading?”

“Just that doms occasionally allow one another to make use of their slaves.”

“And if the slave isn't terribly excited about that...?”

“Well, if a sub's master or mistress gives an order it hardly matters what-” Rarity stopped talking when she saw the look in Twilight's eyes. “Now, darling...” Rarity beckoned her princess into an embrace and held tightly, “don't you worry. I may be the Element of Generosity, but that doesn't mean I'll share you. Nopony gets to play with my special somepony but me.”

Twilight smiled and tears formed in the corners of her eyes. “That's the first time you've called me that,” she whispered.

“Once I'm sure that our relationship won't make you a target for that horrid trio, we'll sing it from the rooftops if you so desire.” Rarity withdrew from Twilight and gestured to the long table. “Now, be a dear and help me with this spread. We need to lay out the tablecloth, sangria pitchers and cups, the platters from the fridge – Oh! We mustn't forget the napkins! I'll start folding those.” Rarity rambled off a list of things that needed to be just so before anyone arrived, which suited Twilight just fine. Checklists and multitasking were a welcome diversion from the butterflies in her stomach.

By half past eight, the table was set, the den was cleared for dancing and the parlor had been prepped with several felt-topped tables for games. Twilight had asked, but Rarity assured her it would be more fun to explain once the guests had arrived. Now they had only to wait.

“Mistress, whom did you ask to cover for us while we're in our meeting?”

“Hm. I'll have to give you their Club aliases for the time being, but I imagine they'd trust you with their real identities. That's assuming you don't recognize them or figure it out from the names: Vera and Nymphaea.”

I feel like this should be obvious. “I know them?”

“Yes. Though you are not close.”

“But you are.”

“M-hm. I see them at least once a week. Don't fret over it, they will most likely not cover their faces; you'll know them the moment you see them.”

Twilight continued to scour her mind for mutual acquaintances who were closer to Rarity and might reasonably be Club members. The names are definitely effeminate, so they are probably mares. Are they regular customers of hers? She thought I would figure it out from the names, and they do seem to ring a bell. It's buzzing in the back of my brain; I should know this!

Her frustration was broken by the sound of rhythmic knocking on the door. It almost immediately became an impromptu drum line before stopping abruptly and was followed by a brief outburst of what sounded like arguing. It was odd enough that neither Twilight nor Rarity answered straight away. They exchanged glances, Twilight shrugged and then they moved to let the guests in.

Standing on the stoop were a pair of mares. One with a white coat and spiked two-tone blue mane, whom Twilight recognized as the DJ Pinkie had hired for her brother's wedding. The other had light gray fur and a dark gray, meticulously styled mane. I have a gut feeling I've seen her before, but no idea who she is. More interesting than their appearance was their party-themed accoutrement: each of them wore a collar similar to Twilight's, with a chain connecting them. Aside from this, they wore only simple, matching black party dresses.

“Symphony, Synth! Delighted to have you. Thank you for coming on such short notice, dears. I was afraid you might be engaged.”

Synth couldn't help snorting with poorly suppressed laughter. “Symph wishes we were.”

Symphony made a quiet sound of aggravation and rolled her eyes at her partner, but seemed to let the comment go. “We wouldn't miss one of your Club functions for all the galas and balls in Canterlot, Elusive.” They entered as Twilight closed the door behind them, but Symphony turned back around toward her. “Especially given the occasion. I can't recall the last time you collared somepony. I'm very curious to know what makes her... special.”

“All in due time, Symphony. For now, you may address and refer to her as Evening Star.”

“A pleasure, Ms. Star,” Symphony said to Twilight before returning her attention to Rarity. “I hope you're in the mood to gamble this evening?”

“Perhaps, depending on the stakes.”

“You've never played for keeps,” Synth pointed out. “First time for everything?”

“There are certain things a pony might spend their entire lifetime waiting for. In any case, I can't imagine either of you would consent to a permanent arrangement, given that you've elected to attend as equals this evening.”

This observation caught Twilight's attention. “May I ask about your chain?” she inquired. “For one thing, I can't tell which of you is dominate.”

“Both and neither,” Symphony answered. “We are switches, so it depends on how we're feeling on any given day. We agreed to come as mutually assertive dominant partners this evening.”

“Which was a huge mistake, 'cause we're definitely gonna be fighting the whole time,” Synth joked.

“Excuse us, darlings, I need my dear Eve for a moment. As usual, I've laid out a variety of refreshments for the evening. Please, help yourselves.”

Rarity took Twilight aside for a moment and spoke quickly and quietly. “There are a couple of ground rules I meant to establish earlier, but neglected. Do not speak openly in front of anypony in attendance without my permission. You may respond to doms when addressed directly, but not subs. Only speak enough to answer. Once I've given permission to mingle with somepony, I may revoke it if I feel it necessary. Most importantly, do not give your identity to anypony without my express consent, no exception. Is this clear?”

“Perfectly clear, Mistress.”

“It is alright for you to speak with Symphony and Synth, but try not to feed into their arguing. I had hoped that they would opt to appear as an unequal pair, but that's a moot point now. Further, Symphony's keen interest in you has made it clear that they were hoping to play with you tonight, or rather to play with my new toy. I imagine they'll ask me about it later. Do not allow yourself to be alone with anypony tonight besides myself. I have no intention of giving any of our guests permission to use you.”

“I should hope not, my Queen.”

“Oh, really? You know, I'm well within the rights you gave me to do so.”

“I know, Mistress. That's why I can only hope not.”

“Mm, good girl.” The sound of knocking filled the room. “Now, get the door for our guests.”

“Right away, my Lady.” Without curious noises to distract her, Twilight opened the door with the flourish Rarity had taught her, simultaneously pulling the door wide, backing away from the frame and bowing to the newcomers.

“Ah, Vera, how good to see you. I can't thank you enough for coming and assisting me tonight.”

Twilight couldn't help her curiosity and raised her head just enough to see the ponies crossing the threshold. One had a soft pink coat and bright blue hair, while the other was just the reverse; both had deep blue eyes. The former was dressed in an elegant but simple frock, minty in color with a pattern of white vines. The latter was adorned with a pure white saddle and bridle. Her bit and noseband prevented her from speaking, the blinders kept her focused on whatever was directly in front of her and she was being led firmly by the reins. Her tail was bound with a tight white strip of fabric which held it aloft, affording a mostly uninhibited view of her backside. It was also obvious from the moment Twilight saw them that they were actually Aloe and Lotus, who ran the Ponyville Day Spa.

“Am I actually this dumb?” she blurted out. Oh, no. Please tell me I didn't say that out loud. One sidelong glance at Rarity's face told her she had.

“Evidently so,” Rarity fumed. “Honestly, what did we just discuss?” She shut the door rather forcefully with her magic, then turned her attention back to Aloe, “I'm terribly sorry, I'll be sure to discipline her thoroughly.”

“Don't apologize, Ms. Elusive. I'm sure she's well behaved when she isn't caught off guard. If it isn't too presumptuous, may I assist in administering her punishment? I'm attempting to teach Nymphaea to satisfy our submissive clients' needs, and I feel she would benefit from some demonstration and hooves-on learning.”

“That may be necessary. I'll consider it while we wait for the remaining guests. It has been some time since you've attended one of my soirées; would you like to reacquaint yourselves with the premises as I share my itinerary for the evening with you?”

“No, thank you; this house isn't so large. If you're true to form, once all of the invitees arrive we'll discuss current events and exchange personal anecdotes over a light dinner, move on to games and drinks, then finish the evening with dancing – amongst other physical activities.”

“With any luck, my important affairs will be settled during dinner, and Evening Star and I will return in time for a few rounds.”

Lotus nuzzled Aloe's neck, which prompted her to remove the bit and allow the submissive mare to speak. “I wonder if we might exchange – how to put it? Proper introductions with Evening Star? I suspect we already have some idea who each other are.”

Aloe glanced between Rarity and Twilight, then replaced Lotus' bit. “Shall we?” she asked.

“I have no objection,” Rarity said, as she glanced towards the only other pair to have arrived yet. “Eve, if you like, but keep your voice down.”

Okay, I can do this, Twilight thought to herself. I can reveal who I am to other ponies while dressed in a gimp suit at a sex party. Ponies whom I've met before and occasionally socialize with. She could feel herself tense up and her breaths come faster. I hope Rarity doesn't mind if they have to cut me out of this suit. Then again, rigor mortis doesn't last that long, right? She gulped and steeled herself against the fear of instantaneously dieing of humiliation.

“T-t-twilight SpARKle,” she belted out. The heat of her cheeks warmed the rubber covering her face, and made her wonder if it was possible to see her flush through the material for a silly moment.

Rarity bit her lower lip and half-hummed; Aloe covered her mouth with a hoof as her eyes crinkled; unlike the others, Lotus could do nothing to suppress her laughter. Muffled giggling escaped around the bit. I'm going to die slowly, it seems.

Rarity stepped closer, crooked her neck and nuzzled the back of Twilight's. “There, there, don't get worked up. It takes a lot of courage to confess one's identity when they typically partake anonymously. Do you remember when you asked why you would hide before we attended our first Club function together?”

“It hadn't occurred to me at that point that I'd be at any risk. Or embarrassed, for that matter.”

“Ms. Star, you needn't be embarrassed,” Aloe consoled her. “As you must have recognized us from your time spent relaxing at our spa, I'm sure you know Lotus and myself. We have been members of The Club for some time, and providing intimate services to other members for just as long. There is no proclivity we would deny, begrudge or deride – violent tendencies aside. It was merely... your outburst which struck us as amusing.”

Lotus nuzzled her partner, and was allowed to speak again. “To be completely frank, Ms. Star, you sort of barked your second name. It was cute.”

Rarity made a point of keeping Twilight close as they greeted the arriving guests in turn. Whiplash – a pegasus – arrived with his submissive earth pony partner, Raw Hide; both were stallions. Next came a heterosexual earth pony couple, Deep Well and Hard Rider. Ironically for their chosen names, Deep was dominant over her husband. Then a group of four showed up all at once. A dominant pegasus mare named Head Turner, and her three slaves: Luster, a unicorn stallion; Duster, a pegasus stallion, and Buster, an earth pony stallion. Twilight had to fight back laughter over the naming convention.

As the guests arrived, Twilight began to feel more comfortable and was settling into her role of letting them in, deferring to them and handling their coats, hats and such. It seemed most ponies in attendance came already dressed for the occasion, but concealed under loose clothing. Also, by quietly listening, she learned quite a bit about them and their relationships with Rarity. All of them lived in Ponyville, most had been Club members for years and each of them knew Rarity as Elusive, though also knew her outside of The Club as well. Every dom had apparently custom ordered clothing from Carousel Boutique for themselves or their subs.

I suppose she must be one of the business owners officially affiliated with The Club. Her Club identity must not afford her any secrecy. A silly thought popped into her head as she watched Head Turner lead her three stallions across the room, towards the long table. When Rarity made those catsuits, how did she know how big to make the bands around the base of their dicks?

“Admiring the way the fabric is drawn taut over their bottoms or their balls?” Rarity whispered in her ear.

“Both are delightful, but I was looking at something else.”

“Try not to get too riled up. We have business to attend to, followed by administrating the remainder of the party. Then we can saunter upstairs and tend to one another.”

“How many more guests are you expecting?”

“None. Only our adversaries remain, but they will arrive late. They always do.”

Twilight looked around the room and counted only twelve ponies besides Rarity and herself. “This is a small turnout compared to Pinkie's parties. Are you not very close to a lot of Club members in Ponyville?”

“The turnout for Cherry-Berry Crumble's parties represents the entirety of Ponyvilles Club membership,” Rarity informed her, putting special emphasis on Pinkie Pie's Club alias as a reminder. “There are a hooful of others I typically invite, but were not available this evening.”

An urgent knocking at the front door interrupted their conversation. Twilight, anticipating the Club Elite, opened the door with the flourish she had perfected by this point and waited for Rarity to show them in. When Twilight didn't hear anypony speak, she shot a glance at Rarity who looked stunned. She frowned and stole a look at the ponies on the threshold, nonplussed.

There were three of them. One was obviously Bell Weather. She was in a shimmering, golden cocktail dress. It went perilously well with her mane and eyes. She was actually laying across the backs of two subs, who had been encased in latex suits similar to Twilight's, obscuring them completely. One seemed to be a lithe stallion of average height, the other a short and chunky mare. Because of the difference in height, Bell was reclining with her rump on the softer looking mare. The poor thing was shaking from the effort of holding Bell up.

I can't believe they would blow us off and send Bell Weather alone! Twilight fumed as she stood up. She turned to Rarity and opened her mouth to complain, but her Mistress' mouth was already open, flitting between gaping in shock and curling into a vindictive smile. Twilight turned back to the door.

“We~ll, aren't you going to invite me i~n? I can't stand here a~ll night!”

No, Twilight thought, that isn't – they can't be! The stallion Bell leaned back against had icy-blue eyes that looked both annoyed and tired. The mare under Bell's rump had green eyes like acid and the look in them made it plain that she shook with rage rather than strain. Oh my Celestia, they did all come. Twilight had to fight with all her determination not to laugh. Why in Equestria would Polly agree to this humiliation, regardless of the convenience of hiding her appearance underneath that suit?

“Please, come in,” Rarity said with thinly veiled mirth in her voice. She and Twilight exchanged a glance of confused joy. “Evening Star, be a dear and let Vera know we'll be absent for a short while. Then, come and join us in the back room – same place as before.”

Twilight hastily delivered the message in a rush to get to the back room. She had plenty of time though, due to the slow pace at which the Club Elite advanced. Bell did not dismount the others upon entering; she forced them to carry her, apparently reveling in the attention drawn to the scene she was causing.

“Oh, hel-lo~ everypony! The most glo~rious Bell Weather has arrived in a fitting, yet da~ring entrance as you've a~ll come to expect.” She was waving and moving about. Sitting up, swaying to and fro, striking poses on top of her “friends” to show off her dress and her braided mane. “A~nd I've come with an entourage of ponies fit to be sat on by a tush as desirable as mi~ne. I wish I could stay lo~nger and show off my pretty little slaves some more, but I've got errands to run. Ta-ta, lovlies. Good by~e, bye-bye.”

As the three of them disappeared into the back hall, followed closely by Rarity, Aloe leaned in a little closer to Twilight and quietly asked, “Is that the mare Ms. Elusive and you are meeting with?”

“Sort of, yes. It's better that you don't know much about it.”

“Well, I've seen her before. At least I think I have seen her picture.”

“Just... try to ignore her. She'll be gone soon, hopefully. Speaking of, I need to get back there.”

Twilight galloped to the other side of the room and down the hall, joining the others before they had settled in. The moment Rarity shut the door behind them, Polly Tessa exploded. The stout mare bucked Bell Weather backward over Agit Prop's side with surprising force.

“Bell, I won't ever allow myself to be humiliated like this again,” the politician pony fumed, “especially by the likes of you! The next time you try to even suggest such a stunt, you may as well consider yourself ruined.” She rounded on Twilight and Rarity next. “If either of you laughs, jokes or even mentions this again I will...” she panted for a moment before her composure finally overtook her anger. “I will rescind all promises of assistance for favors and make a point of opposing you in any endeavor you undertake. This I swear.”

The quick transition from hysterical anger to cold threats dispelled any lingering humor. Rarity and Twilight took their seats beside one another at the table. Polly Tessa sat across from them, flanked by Bell Weather and Agit Prop as before. Bell looked rather ashen, as though she had no idea Polly would be so upset. Twilight waited for a cue from Rarity to proceed, but her Mistress sat silently. The only sound in the room was Polly's gasping.

“Well!?” she snapped. “We haven't got all night, Elusive.” Polly seemed to shrink as she slumped, shut her eyes and tried to steady her breathing.

Ah, she can't cool down inside her suit, Twilight observed. After carrying Bell and erupting like that she must be burning up.

“I thought I would wait until you had caught your breath,” Rarity responded in measured tones.

Polly muttered something darkly before speaking up, “Don't worry about me, my dear. I'll be quite alright. I think we can all agree that we want this meeting to end quickly. After all, my associates and I are intruding on a gathering that you're meant to be hosting.” Her voice sounded strained.

“It hardly matters,” Agit interjected. “A tiny product of sprawling agriculture like this isn't a venue for any gathering that could possibly- GUH!” He looked at Polly with surprise and hunched forward to rub his sore leg. “On second thought, it doesn't matter what I think. Such places speak for themselves.”

So, Agit and Bell both suffer from Polly's bullish tactics. Does she even bother to hide behind sweet words and sophistication when they're alone? Twilight wondered.

Rarity spoke up, “Evening Star and I looked over the bill copy that Bell delivered and decided to support it. Eve can tell you more about that.” They all looked at Twilight expectantly.

She cleared her throat and gathered her thoughts as she fetched a bundle of papers from the drawer of a desk in the back of the room and set them on the table. “Before I explain, let me remind you not to ask any questions about how I've managed this. I'm sure you can appreciate the need for secrecy.”

“Of course, Evening,” Polly managed in a patronizing tone. “I've been at this for quite a while, sweetheart. I know how this works.”

“Yes, well. This is a speech I've written for Princess Twilight Sparkle. Don't worry, she hasn't read the bill or this document yet. With your say so, I'll send them both to her at once and guarantee that she'll deliver it on the second day of the upcoming session of Parliament.”

Polly's eyes were wide. She continued to huff and puff, but seemed to do so in a more subdued manner. “Princess Twilight Sparkle will speak at Parliament?”

“Princess Celestia and Princess Luna will both be away. A fact I suspect you were already aware of. Princess Twilight Sparkle will be Regent in Canterlot until their return.”

Polly eagerly flipped through the speech with her magic. She skimmed at first, then began to peruse it carefully. Bell and Agit both leaned in after a moment, but they quickly backed off when Polly shot them dirty glares. After several minutes, she set the papers down and returned her attention to Twilight.

“You guarantee she'll deliver it as written?”

“I give you my word.”

“I won't ask for details. Simply yes or no: have you written for her before?”

“She hasn't done much public speaking, but yes; I have.”

“She trusts you?”

“As much as anypony.”

“Is she..? No, nevermind.” Polly thought quietly for a moment. “I think this is agreeable. Please send her Highness these documents immediately. I can promise you two things right now. If our newest princess delivers this speech, I will personally see to it that Ms. Elusive's squandered opportunities in Canterlot are renewed. Secondly, if the bill passes, Ms. Star, I will give you that favor we discussed. Have you given it much thought?”

Why does she intend to reward Rarity for my speech? “I haven't decided yet. I will think of a favor by the next time we meet. What does Elusive's lost business have to do with the speech I wrote?”

“Oh no, no,” Polly dismissed. “It's not the speech, it's a prize for finding us an ally who writes for the highest in the land. Think of it as a... finder's fee. Don't be too hasty, Ms. Star. Your just desserts are coming, rest assured. Try not to take too long deciding; I may not be able to deliver something on short notice.”

“I'd like to see what her creative skills are like,” Agit simpered. “Only an artist can judge the true value of ideas in any medium, writing included.”

“If her writing is as valuable as it seems to be, you will get to hear it on the second of next month.”

“By that time, it will be a commercial. I want to feel the intent behind the words before they are given hypocritical breath. As a concept rather than an ethos.”

Polly rubbed her temple with a hoof as she slid the papers over to him. It seems like she hasn't got the steam to argue. Then again, Agit sounds as ludicrous as ever. I just hope she doesn't let him try to edit it.

“I have suggestions,” Agit mumbled before he'd finished the first page, “none of which are optional.”

“I'm not prepared to edit it now,” Twilight told him.

He glanced over the papers at her. His icy eyes seemed far more alert than she thought he was capable of. “Merely word choice,” he said as he levitated a quill and quickly jotted down notes in the margins. “Well, and a few phrases are naïve, they'll need to be made more worldly. I don't suppose you really want to include this jargon; the point is to make it sound good, not confusing. Lastly, the Princess must use the right body language, I've included instructions.” He gave the speech draft back.

The margins are almost completely filled in! Twilight noticed with dismay. Although, these are... actually really good ideas. “I, uh, I guess a few changes wouldn't hurt.”

“Stagnant minds are like lizard water, and breed unchanged.”

Rarity made the mistake of trying to correct him this time, “I think the phrase is, 'unchanged minds are like stagnant water, and breed lizards,' isn't it?”

“Nonsense,” Agit replied. “How would a mind breed lizards?”

“It's... metaphorical.”

“Not on my watch.”

Polly reentered the conversation, “On that note, I think this meeting is at an end.”

“Fi~nally,” Bell chirped. “Now we can go do~ something fun!”

“If by fun♪, you mean repenting for our mistakes♫,” Polly said in a bouncy, lilting tone which sounded far more troubling than growling or shouting could have. Bell seamed distraught as the three of them left. Once the front door had closed behind the abhorrent trio, Aloe came over to Twilight and Rarity.

“Your pretty guest seemed much worse for wear after speaking with you. Whatever did you do?”

“Vera,” Rarity said as she placed a hoof on her guest's shoulder, “Let's not talk about those ponies. It's about time I resumed my host duties; is everypony ready for digestifs and games?”

“Some of us are aching for it, my friend. We're all very eager to spend more time with you and your new sub, especially since it has been so long since you last entertained us for an evening.”

“Then let's not keep them waiting. Eve? Come along, we have quite the night ahead of us.”

Author's Note

I have no excuses. This took much longer than it should have. Better late than never. :ajsleepy:

I promise that anything which seems to drag or appears irrelevant is setting us up for coming events. I'm playing the long con here, folks.

The next chapter will consist of sexy sub-swapping shenanigans. Rare and Twi will mostly be spectating. Exhibition/Voyeur kinks, yay!

As ever, I prompt my readers for feedback: Do you feel any sympathy or pity for any of our antagonists? Does seeing them torment one another feel cathartic and satisfying? Lastly, how do you lot feel about swinging and poly-amorous relationships, both in and outside of fiction?

Thanks, as always, for reading. Please give me any constructive criticism you can. Leave me suggestions and opinions; I might feel inspired to provide some fan-service.

Chapter 12: The Game

The parlor was small and spartan. There was a liquor cabinet, a rug and a few round tables. The walls were bare; only lanterns adorned them, to compensate for the lack of windows. Twilight Sparkle noticed a lingering smoky smell – incense, tobacco and something else – which was faint and not unpleasant. The guests were settling in and taking seats at three of the tables.

“I'm terribly sorry to have left you all,” Rarity announced to the room, “but it shan't happen again this evening. Is everypony ready for drinks?” Rarity tasked Twilight with procuring refreshments for their guests, and provided her with instructions for mixing the various cocktails.

Twilight delivered a Manehattan, a Horse's Neck and a neat gin respectively to the table where Head Turner, Whiplash and Deep Well sat. Their subs were situated at the table beside them. Which wouldn't be necessary if Head Turner hadn't brought a small harem of delicious looking stallions, Twilight noted. Still curious about the sort of company Rarity willingly kept within The Club, she took her time setting out the drinks and allowed herself to eavesdrop just a little.

“Is nopony else just a little curious what Elusive's up to?” Whiplash asked. “It's a bit odd – especially for somepony as prim and proper – to finally host another event after months, but also have a private... whatever that was.”

Twilight left and returned with drinks for the submissive stallions as quickly as she could, then began distributing them with great care as she listened.

Head Turner dismissed something one of the others had said, “-and honestly, you sound like a conspiracy theorist! It's none of our business. I'm just glad to have an excuse to parade my boys without it being another of Crumble's shindigs. They're fun, but you can't hear yourself think.”

“I'm too curious to just ignore it, but there's no point gossiping about it,” Deep Well pointed out. “Let's just ask. Hey, new girl!”

Uh oh, I shouldn't have lingered!

“Whoa there, don't have a heart attack. Before you scamper off, can you tell us what that was all about earlier, with the prima-donna dom in the back room?”

“Um, I can't say, Ms. Well. Please excuse me!” Twilight rushed back behind the small counter beside the liquor cabinet where Rarity had already prepared drinks for the remaining doms. “Your guests are wondering why you were talking to some ponies in private, my Lady.”

“Is that so?” Rarity responded, evidently unconcerned. “Let me handle any questions, Darling. Come along now.”

The two of them took their seats at the same table as Aloe, Lotus, Symphony and Synth. Twilight distributed a pair of Maretinis, a scotch on the rocks, and a shot of vodka with Colt-a-cola as a chaser. Rarity was already sipping on a sweet brandy and Twilight realized that she had neglected to collect a drink for herself.

Rarity was just about to speak when Head Turner shouted out, “Oh, Elusive, sit over here with us! I wanted to discuss having Evening Star gang-banged by my colts!” The unmitigated enthusiasm in her voice left Twilight slightly unnerved and thrilled.

“And I wanted to have a word with you about our unannounced visitor earlier,” Whiplash said with the air of a pony who gave orders for a living.

“Contain thyself, darlings. I've already decided what my slave and I will be doing tonight,” Rarity told them. “Vera has asked to make use of Evening Star as an educational aid, and how could I say no?”

What is she talking about? Twilight asked herself. She shot a sidelong glance at Rarity, then met Aloe's gaze. The expressions on the spa sisters' faces reminded her. Oh gosh, please not in front of everypony. In spite of herself, she was getting excited.

“Please don't look so distraught,” Aloe consoled her. “It will be very tasteful, just demonstrations.”

“Erm, just the four of us, right?”

“Hohohoh,” Rarity chuckled. “It's tempting to let you think otherwise, my pet, but you know I'm not big on large groups or brazen displays. At least, not when the voyeurs are such a small, well-acquainted group.” Rarity's face suddenly lit up even more. “I wish you could see yourself; your eyes are like dinner plates. Not to worry, when I finally have you out in the open, I promise you'll be unrecognizable. Not unlike you are now.”

Twilight huffed and crossed her forelegs on the tabletop. I must seem green-eared to everypony here, the way I keep betraying my surprise and anxiety. I guess I'm still adjusting to all of this.

Synth chuckled. “Uh oh, somepony's in a bad mood.” Twilight glared daggers at her across the table. Symphony nudged her partner roughly and the spa twins trembled with suppressed laughter. Twilight could hear Whiplash and Deep Well muttering from the other table behind her.

“All right, that's enough,” Rarity said loudly. “I think it's time to begin the main event.” She levitated a box of cards from a drawer built into the underside of the table. “Evening Star, I haven't yet explained this to you fully, since I wanted to wait for some actual games to demonstrate. You see, when I host a party, it's more of a game night than anything.” Rarity separated the deck into two piles of cards, returned one to the drawer and began shuffling the other. “There are quite a few methods that Club members use to settle disputes and compete with one another. Yet, old fashioned games of skill and luck are by far the most common. Advantage is especially popular.”

“What do you mean, Mistress?” Twilight asked. “Is that a game, 'Advantage?'”

“It most certainly is, Darling,” Rarity continued. “This is a normal deck of cards, but I've set aside the Solos through Nontets. That leaves us with the Blanks and face cards.”

“That's just 21 cards. There can't be enough for a proper game, can there?”

“It's generally played with two or three ponies at a time. Each player is only dealt three cards and there are an additional four on the table, so it's typically just ten or thirteen cards out at a time. I intend to play against Vera; we'll bet the number and severity of techniques she and Nymphaea may practice on you against special services they shall provide for us the next time we visit their spa.”

Twilight felt her face flush hotly under the latex. “I'm still not sure how comfortable I am with this, Mistress,” she said quietly. “I thought you weren't going to let other doms use me freely.”

“Oh no, my sweet slave, never freely. I shall be there the entire time, and I won't gamble any activities without your express consent. However, I must insist that you allow for a few things; you deserve punishment. Besides,” Rarity pointed out, “they've both had their hooves on you at one point or another. Aren't you the least bit curious what a pony with a good knowledge of equine anatomy and a professional background in... relieving stress can do?”

Twilight fidgeted for a moment. Finally, she squeaked, “M-maybe just a bit.”

“Wonderful!” Aloe cheered and clapped her forehooves once. “Basics first. We know she likes spanking and restraints, but I want to teach Nymphaea how to do it properly. She's too gentle and never makes her knots tight enough!”

“Wait! What about us!?” Synth interrupted. “Turner, Well and Whip are all starting a game! Who are Symph and I gonna bet against?”

“I suggest each other to start,” Rarity told her pointedly. “Neither of you is submissive to the other this evening. Why not gamble to decide who has the right to bet the others services tonight?”

The pair looked at each other, then smiled simultaneously. Synth levitated the remaining cards from the drawer to their side of the table.

“Climb or Greed?” Symphony asked.

“Ugh, Greed,” Synth responded. “You always win at Climb.”

“Well that's settled,” Rarity returned to her own game. “Alright, first win to Vera will be spanking. After that, bondage. My first and second victories shall be...” she paused to think. “Sensual massage and 'deep tissue' stimulation?”

“Agreed,” Aloe consented.

“Is that a euphemism?” Twilight asked.

“Manners,” Rarity chimed.

“Mistress, were you using a colorful euphemism a moment ago?”

“What do you think, my pet?” she asked with a smirk. “Now, I'll explain the basics of Advantage. It's currently the most popular game within the Club, and you'll be seeing it a lot.” She dealt two cards each to herself and Aloe. “Now, each of us has two cards which the other won't see until we've both finished betting-”

“Haven't you already bet?”

“Hmmph~,” Rarity blushed slightly as she pulled out two stacks of faux coins and set them on the table in front of her and Aloe. “We will use these as an arbitrary representation of our performance. Once one of us takes all the others chips we will consider it a victory and divvy them up again. It should only take a few rounds to clean out an opponent.”

“You must not be terribly confident, dear,” Aloe teased. “Often opponents will bet entire sexual favors back and forth during a single round, until one of them decides to stop digging her own hole.”

Rarity's eyes had that predatory gleam once more. “Fine.” She returned the chips to their place. “Compulsory bets are in effect. We each are in for the first items we agreed on.”

“This won't take long at all,” Aloe said with a smile. She and Lotus shared a look and a chuckle.

Twilight whispered into Rarity's ear. “Are you sure this is a good idea?” She was surprised by the high pitch of her own voice.

“Don't be silly, dear, I will destroy them. Then I'll let them win enough to have some fun later tonight.” Rarity cleared her throat and resumed her explanation. “SO, it goes like this: the first two cards dealt to a player are his or her Store, the opponent won't see them until it's too late to change tactics. We're both compelled to make a bet at this point. Next comes the Obligation card.”

Rarity magically dealt one more card each to herself and Aloe. These were face up. “Alright,” she whispered, “let's see what we've got.” Rarity's face up card was a Dragon, her two face down cards were a Spell and a Pony. Aloe had a face up Castle.

“Okay, so you know there are three suits for the three tribes of ponies, but in Advantage, they are irrelevant. Only the face of the card matters. At it's core, Advantage is a convoluted game of rock-paper-scissors. The four highest cards each take the advantage over one another. Castle beats Dragon, which in turn beats Pony, which beats Alicorn, which beats Castle. Whichever opponent has the most little victories wins the hoof.”

“Okay,” Twilight said slowly as she made mental notes. “but that doesn't explain what Blanks, Gems and Spells do.” She lowered her voice to a whisper, “Also, does this mean Aloe's Castle beats your Dragon, but your pony doesn't do anything?”

“I don't know yet if my pony will do anything, one of her face down cards might be an Alicorn or a Dragon. Ahem,” she cleared her throat as she raised her voice again. “Now Blank cards are a help or hindrance depending on the circumstance. I will explain that in a moment. Gems force the players to bet higher; if neither of us fold, Vera and I will agree on an additional gamble before the Store cards are revealed, in case either of us has one. Spells reverse the order of the win/loss relationship between the four high cards.”

“Oh!” Twilight let slip gleefully and beamed. Then she caught Rarity's disappointed look and Aloe and Lotus' polite smiles. Twilight's face fell as quickly as it had brightened. I might want to work on my game face.

“I'll wager that deep massage you wanted for the second round of betting, Ms. Elusive,” Aloe spoke up. “Will you match me with the spanking?”

“Certainly, and now we may see the Opportunity cards.” Rarity laid out two more cards in between them, both face up. One was a Castle, the other a Gem. “Alright, so these are the first of four cards which either Vera or I may use to make our hooves. We each must use our Obligation cards, but we may choose to replace one or both of our Store cards with cards from the center of the table. Now I can explain what a Blank card is for in Advantage: it will always be replaced with a card from the center of the table, even if it's an Obligation card.”

“I see,” Twilight replied. “That way your opponent can't be sure what any of the cards in your hoof will be.” Wait a minute, she thought to herself, that doesn't seem right. “Hold on, do you both decide which cards you'll use before telling the other? What if one pony ended up using all cards that were face up? The other might change their choice because of that.”

Aloe fielded that question. “It is generally good practice to tell a third pony or write it down, that way both opponents selections will be set before either is declared. We typically go by honor here, but you shouldn't rely on that with anypony you don't know.” She turned her attention squarely on Rarity. “The next technique I want to practice on Ms. Star is orgasm denial. I'll bet a thorough hoof massage... using our tongues.”

Rarity wriggled in her seat. “Ooh~ You know me too well! Give Eve and I a moment.” She flipped her mane to the other side so it would act as a convenient curtain and turned to whisper in Twilight's ear. “Listen, each card can only win once, but can lose multiple times. So if she takes that Castle in the middle, she could take two advantages from my Dragon. If I used my Spell, my Dragon would only win once over the two Castles. I'm fairly certain she intends to take the Castle, since she knows I have the Spell and I know she knows, therefore she expects me not to use it.”

Twilight nosed in between Rarity's cheek and mane, nuzzling as she went, and whispered in her mistress' ear. “But that's still a big risk – if you use the Spell, you'll take one advantage from her Castles and she'll only have one other card in her hoof. She'd be relying on playing a third card that can take an advantage over you when the relationship is reversed.” Then the idea hit her. She'd do it if she had a Pony card! The reversed Pony would win over the Dragon! “Rarity, don't use the Spell without an Alicorn!”

Rarity chuckled softly. “But then her Castles would win over the Alicorn,” she reminded her submissive lover. “If she has a Pony I couldn't win with a Spell unless I had another Dragon. If a second Dragon shows up in the last two face up cards, she won't take the second Castle because my Spell will be too powerful.”

This isn't like rock-paper-scissors at all, Twilight mused, it's more like psychology crossed with statistics. “I'm... not sure what you should do. I'm sorry I messed up and let her know you had a Spell.”

“Don't worry, I'm quite good at this. Just tell me if you're comfortable with being kept on edge for a while.”

“Erm, I suppose? How are they going to keep me there if I do climax?”

“I suspect Aloe or I will just build you up again if Lotus makes a mistake.”

Twilight was more than a little hesitant to agree to coming an indeterminate number of times until Lotus could get the hang of edging a pony properly. Oh dear Celestia, let her be a quick study. For that matter, Princess, I hope you never find out about any of this. “Okay, just make the bet.”

Rarity turned back to Aloe. “We will match your bet!” she declared. “Finally, we have the last pair of cards, the Harvest; so called because we must now reap what we've sown. In the traditional gambling format, players who have gone 'all in' with their betting money may find themselves praying for a particular card at this point.”

Then Rarity laid out the last two cards. An Alicorn and a Blank, which was practically useless in the middle of the table. Twilight began running the possibilities in her head. OK, so the Blank won't help. The Alicorn is strong against Castles and weak to Ponies; Aloe wouldn't want it. Unless she thought we would take the Castle, but why would we? Our Spell will give us one victory over her Castle outright, but then what would our third card be? Our Pony card would be weak to Alicorns, but presumably she won't take the one on the table. We can't know what she has in her Store... but some possibilities are more likely. There are two Castles out, so she probably doesn't have the last one. A Blank would be irrelevant. An extra Gem wouldn't matter. Do two Spells counter each other?

She covered her mouth with a hoof and whispered to Rarity, “My Queen, would two Spell cards cancel each other out?”

“Yes,” she replied without bothering to drop her voice. “Now we must decide on the final bet, and an extra in case of the winner using a Gem.”

Aloe and Lotus whispered back and forth a bit. “We have come to an agreement. In the case of our victory, we require some special materials. I want to teach Nymphaea how to encase a pony. Should we lose... well, feel free to request what you like.”

“Encase? Encase in what!?” Twilight demanded.

“Encasement is just severe bondage,” Rarity explained soothingly. “It could be anything from a suit too thick and heavy for its occupant to move to a pair of latex sheets which are temporarily sealed around the submissive pony while she breathes through a tube.”

“We were actually thinking of using the large tub kept in the basement here to avoid making a mess while we coat her in our own home-made concoction,” Aloe elaborated. “A mud clay which dries quickly to be hard as rock. Of course, it's a simple matter to chip it off afterward; I want Nymphaea to practice applying and removing it. It will be very good for your coat, should you choose to remove your latex suit while we do it.”

“That doesn't sound too bad,” Twilight thought aloud. “Will I still be able to say my safety word?”

“We'll leave you a bit of breathing room.”

“In that case,” Rarity asked impishly, “would you care to wager a more typical mud bath?”

Aloe seemed confused. “But... Ms. Elusive, that's one of our normal services. It's not really...”

“Oh, I know, but a girl wants what she wants. Is that a problem?”

Aloe and Lotus merely smiled and shook their heads. “Well, then,” Aloe observed, “neither of us has chosen to fold.”

“Evidently not,” Rarity concurred. “Let us make our extra wager. I'll wager myself as a second learning aid, if you think that will help.”

Aloe seemed lost in thought for a moment, biting her lip and blushing just slightly. “I suppose we could use another,” she said with a husky tone. “Just so Nymphaea can follow along,” she added hastily. “Should I lose, Nymphaea and I will... polish your horns, in a manner of your choosing.”

“Mm, I know Evening Star will appreciate that. We discovered she has a weak spot just this morning.”

Twilight blushed intensely. You don't have to tell everyone! “Erm, that sounds very nice.”

“Then it's settled,” Aloe observed.

“Yes,” Rarity agreed. “It's time to finish this.”

Twilight quickly finished weighing the possibilities in her mind. The four cards which could affect the outcome that she is most likely to have hidden are a Spell, Dragon, Pony and Alicorn. An Alicorn would offer her no obvious benefit, so she wouldn't likely use it anyway. A Pony would lose to our Dragon, unless she cast a Spell, but then her Castle would lose instead. If she expects us to take the Alicorn to beat her Castle, then she might want a Pony, that would be two wins for each. A Dragon would be a safe bet, since it's unlikely for us to have a Castle hidden and the one in the middle of the table would be an equal loss since we would each have a Castle and a Dragon. We should use both of our Store cards. The Dragon will take a victory from her Castle for sure, and prevent her from getting any benefit from the second Castle on the table. Our Pony will only be a problem if she uses an Alicorn, which she won't unless she is very sure that we have a Pony and intend to use our Spell.

Twilight was just about to let Rarity know what she had concluded when the others flipped all the cards face up. Aloe actually had another Castle, as well as a Gem. “Three castles,” Aloe said simply. Twilight felt ecstatic, such a blatant attack on their Obligation card wasn't hard to counter at all. She must have thought my reaction to the Spell was actually a bluff!

“Oh.” Rarity sounded dismayed.

“Oh?” Twilight asked suddenly worried. “What do you mean 'oh?'”

“I had assumed that Vera thought I would use my Spell.”

Oh no, please no.

“Erm, my hoof is Dragon, Pony and Alicorn. I, um, take one advantage with my Alicorn.”

“I, however, take three with my Castles,” Aloe said triumphantly. “You shouldn't assume these things, Ms. Elusive. Just be glad I didn't take a Gem instead of one of my Castles.”

“There goes our special treatment at the spa,” Rarity lamented. “Eheheh, as well as a long nights worth of thorough use for you, I'm afraid.” She winced and pleaded in her panicked tone, “Forgive me.”

“I'm going to have a drink now,” Twilight announced as she rose to do just that. She poked through the liquor cabinet for a minute and found some peppermint schnapps. She briefly looked for something to mix it with, but decided to just have some over ice. Twilight watched Rarity and Aloe start another game as she slowly sipped her drink. I don't think Rarity is as good at this game as she thinks she is. Now I have to do all of these things. I don't even know what to expect. Am I supposed to enjoy it? Are they going to try to get me off, or am I just going to stand there and be a prop while Lotus tries to get the hang of domming ponies? Oh jeez, what all was it? Spanking, bondage, extra weird bondage, and a lot of edging. Twilight finished her drink and poured another.

When she returned to her seat, Twilight found Rarity looking rather smug. “Did you win?”

“Quite well. Vera didn't have the stomach to match my confident betting. She folded before I could draw out all the favors I wanted, but I have secured a sumptuous spa day when we return from Canterlot.”

“Around the time Ms. Elusive began raising me several favors at a time, I decided to call it a night. At least for gambling,” Aloe added with a sultry look at Twilight.

The latex-bound princess turned lewd learning aid gave her drink a hard stare before downing it in one go. “Alright, shall we get on with the lesson then?”

“I'm afraid you're getting ahead of yourself, my sweet slave,” Rarity pointed out. “Vera and Nymphaea must collect the ingredients for their clay encasement. Meanwhile, we shall prepare a room and tend to the other guests. Be a dear and fetch the tub Vera mentioned from the basement, please. Oh, and put these cards away as well.”

Rarity trotted over to the other table to mingle with her dominant friends as Aloe and Lotus made their way out. Twilight had just started to gather the loose cards on the table when Synth spoke to her.

“Elusive was digging herself into another hole and Vera folded for her sake; I guarantee it.”

“Really?” Twilight's voice dripped with sarcasm. She felt defensive of her lover and dom. “I suppose you're just good enough to tell when you don't even know what they had face down?”

“Well...” Symphony interjected, “Elusive has always been terrible at these games. No offense meant, but the mare couldn't win a hoof to save her life.”

Twilight looked over the cards she had been picking up. She still had Rarity and Aloe's cards apart. It was hard to tell anything for certain, since the game depended too much on the personalities of the ponies playing. However, if Rarity's performance earlier was any indication... I hope Rarity doesn't have a reputation in Canterlot for being bad at this.

Twilight was fidgeting incessantly as she and Rarity waited on Aloe and Lotus' return. Excitement, anxiety, and a powerful feeling of arousal she wasn't sure she wanted had put her on edge. “What if I don't behave the way one of their customers would?”

“Whatever do you mean? Each pony would behave differently; it doesn't matter how you respond, so long as you're comfortable and give them the feedback they need.”

“I don't know how to tell if Lotus does a good job or not! What if I'm too critical since I'm less comfortable with them than you? Or I might not be critical enough since I'm not very experienced yet!”

“Darling, you're working yourself into a tizzy over nothing. Everypony else is having fun. You will, too, I promise. Just be calm and let me know if you begin to feel uncomfortable. I want you to be able to enjoy this sort of thing, and Aloe and Lotus are very dear friends who've been in The Club longer than I have.”

“I'm still confused over why you're so eager for this when you basically said we'd be exclusive to each other.”

“Ah, that's why you're so worked up,” Rarity said as she drew Twilight into an embrace. “And why your breath smells like alcohol and mint.” Twilight blushed and made a small noise of discontent. “I did say we would dedicate ourselves to one another, even before we had quite worked out our feelings toward each other. However, I do want to explore your budding passion for subservience with a little help from other doms, who may be able to draw out more of your passion in ways I wouldn't have thought of. Aside from that, exhibition, superficial pain and restraints haven't worked as punishment, so maybe a little mare-handling in front of other ponies will.”

“I know you want to put me on display, but do you really want others to dominate me?” Twilight asked. “I never thought I'd let anypony else touch me or, well, use me in that way. At least not any time soon.”

“Twilight, they will not be your doms, in any sense. I am still your mistress and I am allowing them to do these things to you, under my supervision, for my pleasure. I am dominating you vicariously. Besides, it's not as though we'll be as intimate with them as we are with each other in the first place. Your sweet, little flower is mine alone, and I intend to keep it that way.”

Twilight crooked her neck over Rarity's and held her close. “Okay, I feel a bit better about this. I love you, Rarity. You're my Queen, and I'll serve you always.”

“Mm! My sublime slave,” Rarity cooed. “I love you too, Twilight.”

It wasn't much longer before the twins joined them in the private room. “I hope everypony is ready?” Aloe prompted as she set down her saddlebag.

“I believe so,” Rarity said.

“I'm actually very nervous,” Lotus admitted. “Ms. Star, er- Shall we continue to use aliases while in private? I was never clear on that rule.”

“I only ask that everypony gathered agree one way or the other,” Rarity explained. “We may as well use our actual names while alone, since we are all acquainted.”

“Very well. Ms. Sparkle, I know that you weren't exactly looking forward to this. However, I'm very grateful for the opportunity to learn with you, and I hope you find my best efforts pleasurable.”

Twilight was a bit surprised by how formal Lotus was. “Oh, well, I'm sure you'll do fine. Just relax?”

“You seem to be having a difficult time with your own advice this evening, Princess,” Aloe pointed out. “My sister just needs to warm up to you, and vice versa. Forgive us, if we seem overly professional in tone. This is the decorum we must provide our customers unless they ask otherwise. Will you remove your suit, or do you prefer to wear it?”

“That's up to my Lady.” Twilight said with a nod to Rarity.

“Wear it unless it becomes too uncomfortable to continue. I like the little squeaky noises when you move. Oh, but take the jacket section off. Better to let them practice restraining wings.”

Twilight removed the outer portion of the suit with her magic and set it aside. She spread her wings for a moment to ease away the stiffness and looked expectantly at the twins.

“Let's take it slow to start,” Aloe said. “I understand you are already familiar with restraints. How do you feel about being tied up and then abused a little?”

“I think I can handle that.”

Aloe nodded and turned to Lotus. “Sister, begin by tying her legs and wings. Pick any of the knots I've taught you. Remember the important steps before starting.”

Lotus paused to think a moment before she asked, “What is your safe word, Ms. Sparkle?”

“Flyleaf.”

Lotus laid out her supplies: a silken cord of considerable length, a pair of flat-edge safety scissors, some heavy straps and a muzzle. She picked up the muzzle and considered it briefly before putting it away. “Not much use if we're relying on vocal communication. Please lay on your back or side, Ms. Sparkle.” Twilight reclined on the bed and tried not to fidget. Lotus drew the cord across her belly until roughly the midway point was resting on her. “Please hold your hooves up, about a foot apart from each other.”

Twilight obliged and Lotus wrapped the cord around Twilight's right forehoof and left rearhoof in a figure 8 twice, twisted the loose ends around the center, and did the same to her two other hooves, forming a sort of looping X. Huh, I thought she was going to hogtie me at first, but this is... much more intricate. Then, she began to wind the loose ends around the loops, alternating between the two pairs she had formed at the start. Oh, hurry and tighten the knot..! Darn it, I'm enjoying this more than I expected. After a minute or two, the X was made of two tight bundles which intersected; Lotus drew the loose ends through the center and tied them off, leaving the cord a fair length on either side of Twilight. She squirmed and sighed a little, but didn't speak as Lotus turned away for a moment. She tested her binds a bit and found she couldn't slip them off of her ankles. Ye~s, she thought, so tight.

Lotus approached the bed again, this time with the large, heavy straps draped over her leg. Twilight felt a shiver in her sides and her feathers rustled. "Please pin my wings now," she begged. "I need to feel totally helpless." Ugh, why can't I help myself? I really shouldn't get this excited with somepony else, should I? Twilight looked over at Rarity who was seated in a high-backed chair, bent over the armrest and gently rocking as she used her magic to stimulate herself.

Twilight didn't hear Lotus the first time since she was focused on trying to catch a glimpse of her dom's nethers. "What?"

"I said, I need to roll you onto your side for a moment. You do want me to bind your wings, yes?"

"Yes, yes, yes!" Twilight awkwardly half-rolled away from Lotus and began to thrust her hips in a stilted way. I feel ridiculous fighting the cord like this, but I need to move! “Please restrain me so I can't move. Force me to lay still.”

“As you wish.” Lotus wound one of the two straps under and over Twilight's left wing and drew it tight to keep it bent in the resting position. It was painful for just a moment, making the pliant princess gasp and shudder. The end pointed toward Twilight's stomach had several small holes which Lotus threaded one end of the cord through and tied off. She turned Twilight onto her other side and tugged the remaining end of the first strap out from under her back. She wound the second strap around Twilight's other wing in the same fashion and threaded the remaining end of the cord through it. “Uhn...” she whined. Hurry, I need it tight. I can still work my wings out of the straps.

Lotus paused. “Are you alri-”

“Yes, yes!” she cried. “Please finish. I need it.” I'm shameless, but it doesn't matter. Tie me up and turn me back over so I can see Rarity.

The last strap was more like a belt. Lotus fed it through slits in the ends of the first two, and wrapped it around the front of Twilight's chest where it buckled into place. She adjusted it until it hugged Twilight very firmly. Then she pulled Twilight onto her back. O~h, Celestia, I can barely move my legs or wings. She tried again and found that struggling painfully cinched her wings. “Oh, it shouldn't be this fun to hurt yourself...”

“Are you in pain?” Aloe asked with some concern as Lotus stepped back.

“It's good. It's so good. I deserve it. My Mistress is punishing me.” Twilight shuddered. “Rarity...” she breathed.

“Well, sister, why did you select this knot?” Aloe asked as she tugged up on the center of the braided cord. Twilight gasped sharply and twitched as she tried to buck.

“It seemed like a good starting place. It prohibits movement almost completely and can be adapted quickly to suspension in various positions.” Lotus tugged on the cord and straps to indicate places the binds could be attached to hooks or rope. Twilight groaned and panted as she was callously abused and moved around. “It also makes a fair hoofhold in the center and leaves the submissive pony quite exposed with their legs in the air.” Lotus demonstrated by patting Twilight's rump.

“Ooh! Mm, yes, please!” I should be mortified, but I've been waiting for this all night. Maybe... maybe longer. It's so good, being used like this.

“Now about the pain,” Aloe mused. “Ms. Sparkle, would you say you could get out of these bonds without the use of magic?”

Twilight panted and feebly tugged for a minute. “N~o,” she whimpered.

“Are your bonds causing you distress or discomfort?”

“No,” she said confidently, “I like them.” She craned her neck to look in Rarity's direction. “I'm sorry, Mistress,” she said with a smirk. “I'm having fun after all.”

“That may change,” Rarity replied. Her voice was thick and husky. “Let's just wait and see.”

“M-may I see what you're doing to yourself, m'Lady?”

“Not just now.”

Twilight laid back again and the spa twins leaned over her. “I think it's time to practice your hoof at corporeal discipline,” Aloe instructed. “Begin abusing her backside, don't be afraid to change her position using the restraints.”

Twilight screwed her eyes shut and grit her teeth. A long moment passed and her anticipation grew, making her writhe and shudder. Warmth spread in her loins and butt and she felt extremely aware of her own body in that moment. Yet, nothing happened. Why don't I feel anything? She cracked open an eye and peeked. Lotus was trembling slightly and looked terribly embarrassed. She had her hoof in the air, but seemed stuck.

“Sister,” Aloe urged.

Lotus thrust her hoof forward. It thumped against Twilight's rear with a soft, squeaky pat. Stupid latex, Twilight thought. “Um, Lotus, you can be, you know – rougher with me.”

“Forgive my sister, your Highness, this is one area she needs work on. Badly.”

“I... I'm a pacifist,” Lotus explained meekly. Rarity giggled just out of sight.

“Let's try again. I will demonstrate for you. Just copy me, and remember that some ponies want you to strike them.” Aloe delivered a swift blow to Twilight's bottom, causing the cheek to jiggle nicely inside the tight suit.

“AH,” Twilight cried.

Lotus tried several times to imitate her sister, slowly building to more and more powerful hits. It was agonizing and wonderful to be struck over and over, alternating between considerable force and odd gentleness.

“Alright, I think I can do this,” Lotus suddenly said with uncharacteristic boldness.

Oh my, she sounds so different when she's getting into it. Twilight felt that same acute sensitivity come back as she tensed in anticipation. Go for it, Lotus! Really smack my ass! Make me scre- Lotus shut her eyes and swung her hoof directly into Twilight's pussy. “OH CELESTIA FUCK ME!” Twilight cringed as much as her bonds would allow and then convulsed as she came.

“I think that's enough spanking.”

“I'm so, so sorry, Ms. Sparkle.”

“Darling? My pet, can you hear me?”

“Ah-hah, ugh. Y-y-yes!” Twilight panted as she came down from her orgasm high and the pain fully set in. “Oh, it hurts, but... I still kind of like it.”

Rarity nuzzled Twilight and Aloe considered them for a moment. “I think now seems like an ideal time for some prolonged teasing. She'll not orgasm a second time particularly easily. Ms. Rarity, would you care to bring your sub to the brink of ecstasy for us?”

“I can certainly manage that.” Rarity turned Twilight on her side and laid on top of her. She rubbed her alabaster groin into Twilight's cheek, making slick, muffled squeaking noises on the latex. Twilight blushed and began to pant as Rarity's warmth and scent washed over her face. “You can do more than huff and puff on me, slave.” Twilight turned her head up to face her dom's loins and began to kiss, lick and nibble fervently. “That's it, good girl.” Twilight felt pressure on the small of her back as Rarity started rubbing in small circles. “Such an obedient slave, such a well-behaved pet.” The sensation more than doubled as another hoof pressed into her crotch through the suit. Twilight started probing Rarity's depths with her tongue, lapping at the tart-sweetness flowing out.

Time slipped away for a while and suddenly Twilight felt the pressure lift from her erogenous zones. Rarity did not dismount her nor did she stop grinding her loins against Twilight's face, but she did nothing to further stimulate Twilight. “Hmm,” Twilight moaned into her lover, “nn-nn, mrr.”

“You want more?” Rarity asked with mock uncertainty. “Is that what you said?”

“Mm-hmm.”

“Well, I think Lotus has been waiting to help you.”

Twilight shuddered warmly. “Hmm.” How long does she have to keep me on the edge? I hope it lasts a while... I hope it takes her several tries.

A gentle pressure worked it's way over her hip and around the curve of her backside. The hoof skirted around her eager pussy, just barely teasing the edge, and continued along the inside of her thigh. The feelings were all dulled by the suit, but the material felt tighter wherever she was touched. Celestia, help me, why do I love this torture? Little erratic movements began working around her belly just above her sex, making her twitch and gasp whenever they passed over her nipples. The searching hoof closed in on her teats and insistently kneaded them, only to be accompanied by a second hoof that began rubbing agonizingly slowly over her pussy. Oh, no, please be firmer. I can barely feel it.

Just as Twilight began to move her hips what little she could, the hooves stopped completely. No, no, please don't stop. I'm not there yet, I can go a little longer! “Mmn! Nmm-hm-hm.”

“She seems very desperate for your attention,” Aloe observed.

“Mm! Mm-hmm!” Yes, very desperate! I need it! Twilight redoubled her efforts with needy thrusts of her tongue into Rarity, hoping for attention from her dom.

“I think it's best to make her wait now, yes?” Lotus asked.

No! Keep teasing! “Nuh, mm-mm!” She withdrew her tongue and found the fashionista's clit, which she sucked and nibbled at with gusto.

“At least wait until she finishes whatever she's doing to me,” Rarity said thickly. “Celestia as my witness, she's a first-class pussy pleaser.” Twilight whined into Rarity's loins, and slowed down. “Oh no, Darling,” Rarity admonished. “Finish what you started.” Twilight craned her neck and opened her mouth wide, she thrust her tongue deep and sucked on Rarity's plump mound. Rarity gasped and gripped Twilight's midsection tightly. “Yes, Twilight, keep doing that! You're an animal, Darling, a beast!” Twilight could feel her lover shaking as her legs trembled. Rarity's internal muscles contracted and squeezed at the tongue tickling them. “Oh... oh... oh, oh, OH! Yes, ye~s. Nnnah, hah, AH-AH! G~ooh, TWILIGHT!” Rarity slid sideways off of Twilight and hugged her close for a minute in an upside-down spooning position. “I think she's earned some more stimulation,” she managed to say in between gasping and panting.

Lotus fell in on her immediately. She tugged Twilight away from Rarity by the silken knot holding her hooves and set her on her back in one quick motion. Oh, that hurts! “Don't just rub me, please be rough too!”

“I-I'm not so...”

“Please, Lotus, it'll keep me close, but I won't go over if you keep an eye on where you hit me.”

“I'll try.” The timid dom in training massaged either side of Twilight's rump firmly for a minute before alternating swats to her cheeks, building up to strikes which were actually quite audible, though not as loud as Twilight's involuntary vocalization.

“Ahn! Ooh, yes. Oh! Nuh! Like that, just like- AGH!”

“Are you getting close, Ms. Sparkle? If you lie to me, I'll know soon enough, and you'll be punished.”

“I'm close! Please don't stop.”

“That's not my decision,” Lotus said as she stepped away, leaving Twilight squirming and whining.

Aloe sounded pleased. “You've done very well. I think we can move on-”

“Can I cum!?”

“...To practicing encasement.” Aloe finished without responding to Twilight. “Ms. Rarity, can you keep your sub from gratifying herself once the bonds are removed? Encasement is most effective when the subject goes in unsatisfied.”

“Hoo,” Rarity sighed as she got back up, a bit wobbly on her hooves. “She'll do as I say if she knows what's good for her.”

Lotus was as adept at removing restraints as she was at putting them in place. It took very little time to have Twilight upright again and standing in the tub she'd been made to bring upstairs earlier. While Lotus prepared the clay mixture, Rarity was in charge of keeping Twilight excited which she did by taking advantage of the princess' recently discovered weak spot. Twilight leaned over the rim of the tub in a daze of sexual excitement and sensual pleasure, nuzzling Rarity as the base of her horn was massaged.

Suddenly, Twilight felt something splash onto her side and jerked away from Rarity to look. Lotus was pouring the mixture into the tub and Aloe was agitating it with a short, wooden oar. “Forgive us for startling you, Ms. Sparkle,” Aloe said, “We need to get you covered as quickly as we can, there are only a few minutes before it starts to set, and then it will become hard and brittle very rapidly.” Lotus donned a pair of rubber boots on her forelegs and scooped the wet clay onto Twilight's back and sides, smearing it a bit before she reached for more.

“It sticks to the suit well,” Rarity noted. “Make sure you cover her wings. Oh, and avoid getting it in the suit if you can.”

“I will stay away from the openings in the suit, Ms. Rarity,” Lotus assured her. “Some may get in around her wings, though it shouldn't be difficult to clean out.”

Once Lotus had mostly covered Twilight's back and sides, Aloe stopped stirring and used the oar to spread the clay onto her legs. Lotus carefully spread the clay over her wings, liberally coating them to make the clay connect with the rest. Finally, the twins worked together to cover Twilight's neck and head, meticulously leaving openings around her eyes and mouth. They cleaned the clay off of their hooves and stepped back.

Twilight began to feel as though her suit had become stiff and heavy. The clay was already weighing her down when it was wet, but now it seemed to contract and grip her whole body. “It feels... tight.” This is actually kind of scary.

“Please stand in a neutral position that you can maintain for an extended period, Ms. Sparkle,” Lotus instructed.

“Are you alright, Darling?” Rarity asked and took a nervous step forward.

“I think so.” It's as though the mud turned to lead, I can feel it hardening. After a long moment, Twilight felt as though she couldn't move without taking a great effort. “I... I don't think I can move.” She looked from her lover, to the twins and back again, flicking her eyes side to side. “This is actually... way more intense than the rope. It doesn't hurt, but I really can't move an inch. I thought this was supposed to be brittle?”

“It is,” Aloe said, “but if you can't move enough to bend it, you certainly can't break it.”

Twilight tried to wiggle, twitch and squirm in every possible way, but no part of her body had even the slightest room to move. Ah, if it weren't for my magic, I'd be completely helpless. She began to pant from the effort and arousal. It's just gripping me too tight, there's no escape. She felt her fluids seeping down the back of her hindlegs, and the sweat across her body made her feel slick. Maybe that's enough to move inside the suit. She tried her absolute hardest once more, but twisting her midsection was impossible with her wings sealed in place, and there was no natural way to move her neck or limbs inside the confines of her earthen bonds. “Hah, huh, I can't,” she panted. “It's just impossible.” She was very hot and exasperated, and the suit wasn't breathing at all. “Is it supposed to be uncomfortably hot in this?”

“I... didn't think so?” Lotus said and looked to her sister.

“The clay is somewhat porous,” Aloe said. “It must be your rubber suit.”

“I'm getting really hot and tired.”

“May I ask a favor of the two of you?” Rarity interjected. “It's getting a bit late. If you don't mind, I need to attend to something, a promise I made one of the other guests. I'd just love, love, love it if I could take care of that, wrap up the party and come back to an encased sub, but I don't think she'll hold out for that long. Did you bring extra clay?”

“Of course,” Lotus said. “In case I did a poor job the first time, we brought enough for three tries.”

“Well, could you let her out, give her a quick break to remove her suit and wash up, then put her back in the clay? By the time you've got her all snug, I'll be ready to see you off and then come back up for a little fun to finish the night.”

“You're going to leave me like this?” Twilight whined. “For how long?”

Rarity leaned over the edge of the tub. “Oh my sweet little slave,” she whispered, “longer now that you've asked me in such a disrespectful manner.”

“I'm so sorry Mistress, please-”

“Tut, tut, be quiet. You're not allowed to please yourself while your out of there, and you'd better be ready to do as I say when I return.” Twilight closed her eyes and whimpered softly. “Don't be impetuous with me! Do you understand what I've ordered you to do?”

“Yes, my Queen. I'll be a good slave. I won't touch myself and I'll wait for you to return and use me before you free me.”

Rarity addressed Aloe next, “You don't mind, do you?”

“It's quite alright. It gives Lotus another chance to prepare and apply the clay. This time directly onto a pony, instead of over a suit. I think you'll find that our clay does wonderful things to her Highness' coat as well.”

“That's fabulous, dear.” Rarity hugged Aloe and Lotus in turn and made for the door. She peaked back in through the frame and watched for a moment as the sisters lightly tapped cracks into the surface of the clay. “Perhaps... leave her backside exposed. I'd hate to try and break through to it, only to free her legs by mistake.” The spa sisters nodded and Rarity disappeared down the hall.

“Isn't this a bit much?” Head Turner whispered in Rarity's ear. She watched her host mull things over for a moment while she continued to use her wings and toys to stimulate her colts. The stallions were blindfolded and had their ears plugged, but Head Turner hadn't gagged them so that she could play an orgasmic symphony of pants, gasps, grunts and moans. Noise well-suited to snubbing any eavesdroppers while making it seem as though she and Rarity were engaged in typical Club activities.

“I don't see it that way,” Rarity told her in a hushed tone. “These are desperate times, as they say. I'm determined to find the motive behind this and use it to prove her corruption. If all else fails, the aftermath of the vote should bring her misdeeds to light.”

“It will also destabilize the country's weather patterns. You know as well as I do that there are places where deregulated weather will inevitably be abused. Is it worth it?”

“The law can be overturned. Whatever benefit it will bring her is likely to be short lived, but obvious if one is observant enough.”

“Observation is only useful if one knows where to look. I'm worried about you, Rarity.”

“Don't be. I've been playing this game long enough to know what's at stake and how to win.”

“It's not a game,” Head Turner said flatly. “It's bad enough that you're trying to take them head on again, let alone involving her Highness. Suppose for a moment if you lost again – what then?”

“Will you help me, or not?”

“All right. I don't know how far a member of Commons can get trying to root out a conspiracy in the Nobles, but if there's a single lead I'll chase it.”

“As for the vote?”

“Well...” Head Turner weighed the dilemma carefully. “I prefer to keep my nose out of bad politics; this seems like a fool's errand at best and blatant corruption at worst.” Rarity gave her a pleading look. “However,” Head Turner continued, “I can make an exception for a friend. Just promise me that this will blow over.”

“Like a stormy cloud giving way to sunlight. Now, if you don't mind I have a party to wrap up and a statuesque princess to ravish.”

Author's Note

This took much to long to get out. I apologize to everyone for my lack of motivation and waffling these past weeks.

I am always desperate for criticism! Point out every technical error! Disagree passionately with my writing style! Be pedantic! It will make me a better writer in the long run.

I am also eager to hear about your impressions of the story. So, as is my wont, I will ask specific questions to get discussion going. Feel free to comment on other stuff, though.

Did you think the section with the card game was overly long or slow-paced? I'm setting it up as a plot point that will recur a few times infrequently, and I wanted to make subsequent instances of it much briefer. Tell me if you thought I struck a good balance between clarity and brevity.

What did you think of the revelation that Head Turner is a politician? Was it too out of left field? Do supporting OCs make you cringe? Was the hook too ham-handed?

The sex scene! Did it titillate? Was the establishment of consent strong enough? Did it reaffirm Rarity and Twilight's affection for each other, or undermine it?

Lastly, were there any sources of unexpected humor? Did I ever manage to make you laugh suddenly?

Thanks, everyone for reading! I hope I can get back to once a month updates, maybe fortnightly. Have another update for you soon, I promise!

Chapter 1: The Package

As the chariot came to rest in the plaza at the center of Ponyville, Twilight Sparkle couldn't help contemplating the state of the Town Hall, which had just been renovated. She wouldn't have thought much of it, were it not for the fact that the last renovation had been fairly recent.

It seems Mayor Mare wants to make a good impression, Twilight thought, though she wasn't sure who the Mayor wanted to impress.

Her mood fell a bit at the thought, but she quickly put it out of her mind. So much had changed since her coronation, and life in Canterlot had been so hectic lately; all Twilight wanted to do was spend time with her friends in Ponyville and let the laid-back atmosphere of the small town soak in. Unfortunately, she hadn't even set all four hooves on the ground before an entourage of politician ponies led by Mayer Mare herself came trotting up.

An hour and a half later, Twilight was quite certain she never again wanted to hear the phrases royal subsidies, grass roots or privatized municipality. She wasn't even sure how a municipality could be subject to privatisation. She entered her library, snatching up a small cardboard box left by the door as she did so, and finally set down her saddlebags. Sighing from physical and mental exhaustion, she checked her schedule and noticed that she had completely missed her appointment at the spa with Rarity and Fluttershy and had a solid hour before she was supposed to meet Pinkie Pie at the café for a late lunch.

“Not a great way to start your time off, huh?” Spike had an annoyed look on his face which softened as he noticed how tired Twilight seemed to be. “Hey, why don't I make some tea?”

Twilight thought about having an invigorating cup of green tea and immediately began to feel better. “That would definitely brighten my day,” she told him, smiling.

As Spike set about getting a kettle boiling in the kitchen, Twilight turned to the box that had been waiting for her. She lifted the package with her magic and turned it over once, finding no distinguishing markings save for a note that had been folded over and tacked onto the cardboard. She removed and unfolded it and read:

Enclosed is a present that I believe you will appreciate greatly, assuming

that there is a side of you which you have never shown to me, but which I

have long suspected is there. Perhaps even without realizing it yourself. If,

however, I am wrong, I only hope that you find this humorous rather than

insulting.

– A Friend

Twilight had received quite a few gifts recently, from friends, family and also strangers trying to curry favor with the new princess of Equestria. Something about this one seemed strange though. There was no name, no organization, no form letter; the note itself was hoof-written, (or horn-written, perhaps) but the lettering was precise and neat like a scribe's. Twilight could not tell who it was from in the slightest. Were she not so tired, she may have been wary of the mysterious package, but in fact she was merely curious. She promptly opened the box with her magic and looked inside.

It took a few seconds for her mind to register what she was looking at and several more seconds to formulate a response to it. She shut the box and slammed it on the table with her magic before rearing up and placing her fore-hooves on top of it. She began to feel rather silly for doing so and was starting to calm down just as she heard Spike ask, “What's wrong now?”

Twilight spun around to face her diminutive dragon assistant, levitating the box so that it floated behind her – out of view. She realized how absurd that was as he cocked his head and raised an eyebrow; the look he always had when he thought she was freaking out over nothing. Twilight couldn't help but blush as she internally conceded that she was over-reacting, but she wasn't sure how to explain. After a moment, she decided to be truthful, but vague.

“Er, well… I've just received a… very personal bit of mail. I need a little while to myself to deal with this.”

Spike's expression quickly changed to one of concern, “Are you OK? Is something wrong?”

“It's fine,” she said as she headed upstairs to the loft where they slept. “I just have to take care of this. Call if you need anything.”

“Is it from the princesses – the other ones?” Spike corrected, still getting used to Twilight's new title.

“I don't, um – no. No, it's not.” Twilight sincerely hoped that was true.

Upon reaching the second floor, she quickly closed and locked the door behind her. Wasting no time, she set the package on her bed and reopened it, then dumped the contents of the box onto her covers. She felt her face flush as she considered the large, anatomically correct… toy in front of her. It was clearly made to resemble a stallion in appearance and feel, and to be worn by one mare as it was used to please another. Behind the shaft was a smaller curvier bit which she imagined would stimulate the wearer quite well. The whole thing was a shade darker than her coat, and her own cutie mark was clearly stamped on the side of the fake testicles. It was actually a bit unnerving that someone would go to the trouble of acquiring such a personalized piece of equipment for her. Even so, she was genuinely intrigued.

For reference, she pulled the device she had relied on for some time now out from beneath her bed. It was much less fancy, being a simple, smooth wooden case containing a magic absorbing crystal with a twist dial on the base that would line up a set of runes which activated a vibration spell. By comparison, the shaft was easily twice as long – maybe even three times – and nearly twice as thick. The curvy inset was about the same size as her old toy, taking the different shape into account, but Twilight could just imagine how it would pump in and out and rub itself roughly against her sweet spot as she moved her hips –

What am I thinking? I've never done anything like that! I've never even had a coltfriend, let alone another mare.

In spite of herself, Twilight was getting undeniably hot and bothered by the silicone stallion replica sitting on her bed. Checking the clock, she determined that she certainly had time to kill and decided that just trying it on couldn't hurt.

It's not like I can return it. I don't even know who bought it or where they got it from. And besides, Celestia help me if a toy like this with my cutie mark on it were just floating around out there.

Reclining on her bed, Twilight magically lifted the toy into position and gently stimulated herself with the smaller section, rubbing the length of the curve against her marehood and letting the tip prod her clit repeatedly. She was already pretty worked up, and she became very slick in a hurry. Using her hooves to deftly guide the toy, she began to gently penetrate herself with the tip, and then let a bit more slip in, and then a little more, and after a moment the root of her new toy was inserted to the hilt.

Twilight let go of the toy which now rested on her abdomen, the tip of the shaft reaching halfway up her belly. She sat up slightly, and looked herself over, blushing at how natural it looked, save for the colorful starburst on the right side of her synthetic balls. She began to stand up, considering humping her pillow in spite of the indignity of the act, when the whole thing fell out, the inner tip flicking across her clit as it did so.

“OOH!” she gasped, as she fell back onto the bed. A second later she regained her composure and picked the toy back up. “Right, I didn't fasten it in place.”

As she looked back to the box, however, she realized that there were no straps or belts of any kind. The only thing that came with the toy was a small booklet. She flipped through it and found that the toy was enchanted and that the book contained instructions for a simple spell that would activate and deactivate it. Expecting it to affix to her crotch and vibrate splendidly, Twilight eagerly reinserted the toy and cast the spell.

At first she felt a sensation like tugging at her vulva which spread up through her body to her navel and then abruptly stopped. Disappointed that the toy hadn't begun to stimulate her on it's own, she settled for testing the toy's grip on her. She gave the shaft a firm tug using her magic and was rewarded with an intense, alien sensation just as strong and unexpected as the sudden clit-tease she had received only a couple minutes earlier.

“HAH-AH! Nuh, huh, what… was that?!” she asked no one in particular as she looked back down at her new toy, which she was shocked to see twitch. She blinked, and it twitched again. She touched the tip very gently with her hoof, which sent a pleasant tingle through her hips and elicited another twitch. She ran the tip of her hoof lightly along the length of the underside from the base to the tip. Stronger tingles went all the way up her back and the toy positively throbbed.

“OK, that's enough experimentation!”

Twilight recast the spell and the toy came away easily as she tugged it (more carefully this time) with her magic. A soft, wet noise came from her pussy as it left her, and she resisted the sudden urge to immediately penetrate herself with it again. Determined to understand what had just happened, she cast a suite of spells meant to reveal standing enchantments and lingering spell effects. She discovered a trigger spell, an adhesive charm and a complex set of intertwined illusions and transfiguration spells designed to help the toy provide a realistic experience.

Very, very realistic, Twilight reflected with uncertainty. Initially, she had calmed down and lost interest after her little scare, but having uncovered the cause of the magical phenomenon she had experienced, she was again curious and aroused by the prospect of what the toy could do. The room was dark and quiet, but an intense battle waged in her mind.

I can't do this it's… weird! It's pervy and – and weird. Although, it's easy to say something is weird just because it's new. Initial impressions aren't sufficient to formulate an opinion. This is unnatural though, it's just a trick, not a real experience. It's just a spell telling me I'm feeling something. And yet, I've wondered what it must be like for a stallion. This could be my best bet at approximating that. Even if the source of the stimulation is a tactile illusion, the perception itself is real enough.

Tentatively, Twilight laid back once more and guided the toy's root back to her marehood. Spreading herself with her hooves, she magically slid it inside and cast the spell a third time. As the feeling of the spell taking effect subsided again, she began to apply pressure to the shaft with her magic, creating a circle of magical aura which slowly worked its way up and down the length. The sensation was incredible; she began to feel light-headed as she worked the cock faster, instinctively changing the rhythm to give extra attention to the sweet spot just below the tip.

Twilight had no concept of time passing, where she was or even what she was doing anymore. Nothing registered other than the building need for release from somewhere she couldn't pinpoint in her body. Her hips bucked on the bed, her horn actually felt hot as she feverishly pumped her cock with magic, her hooves had wandered between her thighs and were massaging her balls just roughly enough to hurt slightly. She panted and moaned until her throat felt dry, she couldn't see because her eyes refused to open and the muscles in her abdomen felt sore, but she liked it. Suddenly Twilight heard herself cry out and felt herself tense up. It was as though lightning raced up her legs into her hips and tore through her upper body.

About a minute later, Twilight remembered that she was, in fact, still alive and not floating on a cloud of pure bliss, at least not anymore. She sat up slightly and was surprised to see that she had actually ejaculated, in spite of having no idea where it had come from. Before she could have a chance to figure this out, she realized that she had no idea what time it was.

“Oh no, I'm supposed to meet Pinkie at the café! What time is it?!”

She quickly cast the spell again, stuffed her new and old toy into the unmarked box which she unceremoniously shoved under bed and hurried to the bathroom to clean up. As she rushed out of the library to make her way to the café she wondered whether or not Spike had heard anything unusual from downstairs.

I need to talk to him when I get back and figure out if he heard anything. Come to think of it… I need to figure out who sent me that toy so I can thank them properly.

Author's Note

Haha, whoops! Looks like we're starting off with pseudo futanari. I promise, as the story continues and we get some longer chapters mixed in the story will take off and we'll get some interesting character interaction.

Chapter 9: Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie go on a Play Date

Rainbow Dash laid on a cloud high above Sugarcube Corner, but she wasn't relaxing. Her hooves hung over the side as she watched the building intently. Trepidation over confronting Pinkie Pie had stopped her from going inside and demanding to speak to her vibrantly pink friend, and she had decided to wait until the Cakes inevitably left for some errand or another. That had been around lunchtime, and now that the shadows in the street were getting longer, it occurred to Rainbow that they might not have to go out at all today.

Ugh, this is so boring. All I have to do is go down there and talk to her. It's easy. Just tell her to lay off the club stuff. Right now. Rainbow Dash sifted her weight uncomfortably on the cloud. Right now! She leaned a little further over the edge of the cloud. Come on. You've got this. She stood up and spread her wings. Alright, time to do this. She stood still, flapping her wings halfheartedly a few times. This is so stupid, she berated herself, just do it. Do it! Do it! She threw herself off the cloud and glided down in circles before suddenly climbing back up and settled down on the cloud again. After fifteen more minutes of procrastination and internal verbal abuse, she finally pushed open the door and entered.

“Hi, Dashie!” Pinkie greeted from behind the counter while she waved. “I was really hoping you would stop by today! Mr. and Mrs. Cake have gone on a little trip and taken the twins, so I'm all alone today. They let me run the shop while they're gone, though, which is super neat since it means they really trust me to take care of all the chores and make the food and handle all the customers on my own.”

“Seriously!?” Rainbow shouted. Am I really this dumb?

“I know! I almost never get a chance to do everything without them helping and reminding me of stuff, not that I mind since it's really nice to help and give friendly reminders, but I'm actually doing everything on my own, so I can really show them I know how to handle this stuff, which means they might start letting me manage more stuff and maybe if they trust me enough, they'll even let me do the catering, which would be super duper extra fun!”

Rainbow Dash sighed and reminded herself why she was here. “Pinkie, we need to talk-”

“Oh, yeah, that reminds me!” Pinkie exclaimed while she ran off to the back room. Rainbow could hear her continue from the other room. “I was hoping one of my friends would come by today, since I can't just leave without closing shop while I'm out which would be bad for business. Bu~t, I was hoping that you especially would come today since I made...” Pinkie reappeared with a small tray of cupcakes that were frosted pink and sky blue and had rainbow colored sprinkles. “These!” *Giggle* “They're kind of an apology, and I guess you're here because I've been sorta pushy lately.”

Rainbow eyed the cupcakes with suspicion. What if they're poisoned? What if they're not? I'll hurt her feelings if I don't take one. But, what if they're poisoned? She's my friend, and I know she wouldn't do that to me. But, what if they're poisoned? I can't spend the rest of my life worrying if everything Pinkie gives me is poisoned. But, what if they're poisoned!?

“Are you okay, Rainbow? You look kinda...”

“I'm fine! I'm just... not in the mood for sweets. I'm sorry.”

“Aw, that's okay! These actually weren't my idea, anyway.”

“Huh? What do you-?”

“Look, I was being a big, dumb bully. I just wanted you to join the Club because I was afraid of getting in trouble, but that doesn't matter anymore. What's important is that you're one of my very best friends ever, and I want us to get along like we used to. In fact, once Sugarcube Corner closes i~n –” Pinkie checked the clock hanging on the wall. “Wowzers, just another four minutes! Once I close up and everything, I want us to go do something fun. I actually have a really great surprise all planned out. You're not busy, are you?”

That was easy, Dash thought to herself. Too easy. Is she really giving up? She thought about it for a moment longer and made up her mind. Pinkie is, like, my second best friend ever. I'll always be there for her and I know she'll have my flank, too. “Course, I'm not busy. I can't wait to see what you've got planned.” Dash grabbed a cupcake and ate it happily.

“I thought you didn't want any sweets,” Pinkie said with a pseudo-accusative tone.

“I was afraid you were trying to drug me,” Rainbow admitted, hoping Pinkie would take it in stride.

*Giggle* “Oh, Dashie, I wouldn't do that without asking first.” She paused for a moment and rubbed her chin with a hoof. “We~ll, unless I had a really good reason. I would apologize later, though.”

“You haven't ever drugged me, have you?”

“I might have spiked the Tutti-Frutti Sherbet Sugar punch at Shining and Cadence's wedding,” she confessed with a devious grin. “But nothing worse than that.”

The two friends shared the remaining cupcakes and chatted about the events of the last few days while diligently waiting for any last-minute customers. Rainbow Dash helped Pinkie Pie put away supplies and clean the kitchen before they headed out.

“So, where are we going?” Dash wondered aloud.

“It wouldn't be a surprise if I told you, silly.” *Giggle* “Don't worry, nothing sexy. Just something to liven up the evening.”

Before long, the two friends came to a tavern: The High Trot. It was a two story building with a large patio protected by an awning. The architecture was old, but robust, made of quality wood that had been worn and repainted numerous times, and hewn in a style reminiscent of the early settlers of Ponyville. The High Trot was originally an inn, but had slowly changed into a bar and then a restaurant. It was nearly dinner time for most ponies and there were quite a few patrons having drinks and eating already.

“You're treating me to dinner? Sweet!”

“Yup! Have you been here before?”

“A couple times. AJ really likes the place and she sells them hard cider.”

“Is it any good?”

“I don't actually know. I usually don't drink. Makes flying kinda difficult if you're more than a little tipsy.”

“I'll remember that before I try to drink and fly, but I meant the restaurant itself. I know Sweet Apple Hard Cider is good.”

But... you don't have wings, Rainbow thought before deciding to let it go. “Yeah the food here is pretty good. Wait, why are you asking me about it? Haven't you ever been?”

“Nope!”

“Then why did you pick this place?”

“'Cause it's the best place to get more than a little tipsy! C'mon!”

Pinkie dragged Rainbow inside before she could protest or question the inane logic any further. Rainbow looked around the restaurant, to her right was the bar, where a few ponies were nursing their drinks and chatting with each other or the bartenders, on her left was a small waiting area where a family was passing time before being seated by one of the waiters or waitresses. When she turned back to her right, Pinkie had already made for the bar. She sat on one of the high stools, her back legs swinging slightly and hooves tapping on the stool and the side of the bar in a bouncy rhythm. She turned to look back at Dash and patted the stool to her left.

Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes and climbed into the seat. “Why are we doing this? I said I don't usually drink.”

“Yep, but you didn't say you never drink. Besides, I'm buying and that sign says it's happy hour, so I'll get two of every drink! If you don't help me drink, you'll have to help carry me home instead!”

*Sigh* “Fine. Can we at least order food first?”

After a plate of black bean and cream cheese enchiladas, some avocado egg rolls and a discussion about the long term sustainability of a magic clown school for unicorns, the girls ordered a veggie platter with ranch dip and started contemplating drinks. “It's kinda silly that you've never had any hard cider, Dashie. I mean, you love cider!”

“Yeah, but I rarely drink. 'Sides, AJ hasn't got a license to sell alcohol outright. She can only sell to places with a license like this one.”

“We~ll, we can buy two for one pints or get a pitcher half off. I'd rather get a couple pints and move on to something more interesting.”

“Hey, you're buying.” The ciders arrived quickly and Rainbow Dash sipped gingerly at hers. “Oh, wow. This is great! It's actually a little more tart than the regular cider.”

“I kinda don't like that,” Pinkie commented as she made a puckered face.

“Haha, it's not that bad, Pinkie. So, if you've never been here before, how did you know it was a good place to get drinks?”

“O~h, a little birdy told me.”

“Fluttershy?”

“No.” *Giggle* “I'm not even sure if she drinks. Maybe it would help her be more social!”

“Well, who was it?”

“Don't you worry about that. I've got some more stuff planned after this. You're just gonna have to wait and see. For right now, let's see who can finish her cider first! Ready?One,two,three,GO!”

Dash almost missed the prompt to chug, but quickly made up for it. She and AJ were both way better at downing cider than Pinkie Pie. Rainbow's mug slammed on the bar top first, and she watched Pinkie gulp a few times before hammering the counter with her tankard as well. Pinkie seemed to lurch forward and Rainbow reached out to catch her only to realize that she was the one falling.

“Whoopsie~♪,” Pinkie sang as she righted Dash back into her seat. “Don't get ♫ti~psy-tu~rvy♪ just yet.”

Rainbow blinked. A pint is more than I thought, I guess. She blinked again and started to feel more coordinated. “Uh, I'm good. Just hit me kinda suddenly.”

“Heeheehee, I hope so. Hang in there for a couple more rounds at least, OK? I'll order something...” Pinkie Pie scanned the drinks menu. “Peppy! Can we get a pair of Dragon's Kisses, please!”

Rainbow and Pinkie watched as one of the unicorns mixing drinks brought over a pair of small glasses and poured a shot of cinnamon whiskey into each. Then he added a splash of absinthe to the glasses, creating a vibrant green swirl in the pale red-orange fluid. Finally each glass was garnished with a dried red chili pepper placed upside down in the glass.

Pinkie nudged Rainbow's side and tittered in her ear. “I think that's the 'tongue!'”

Dash blushed a bit as the glasses were slid over to them. The slightly curled pepper certainly looked like a gnarly dragon tongue. “That's kinda gross.” She looked over at Pinkie who was nibbling on the tip of the pepper.

“Tasty, though, and spicy. Ready to knock 'em back?”

“Can I take out the pepper?”

“Aw, that's like, half the fun.”

“Alright, let's do it!”

Each mare rested a glass on the underside of a hoof and brought it up to their lips. “Ready~, go!”

Rainbow tasted the spicy-sweet cinnamon first, then the sting of alcohol, then the licorice flavor of absinthe. Just as she was about to swallow, the pepper slithered into her mouth. Don't gag! Don't gag! She bit down on the pepper and swallowed her drink. As she brought her head forward again, the taste of the pepper seeds which filled her mouth registered. She spit the pepper back into the glass and began gasping. “Water! Water!”

“AAH, THIS IS SO SPICY!” Pinkie cried. She had evidently eaten the pepper, unaware of the seeds. The bartender took pity on them and brought a pitcher if ice water and two glasses. After downing the water and chewing on the ice for a bit they began laughing at themselves. “I can't believe we ate th' peppers! Heeheehee-” *Snort* “Hahahah!”

“I didn' eat mine! I juss bit it to stop it from slidin' down my throat!”

“Haha, yoo wuss! Eat th' whole thing, Dashie! I dare yoo!”

“No way! I'm no wuss, but I'm notta sadist, either!”

“Yoo mean masochist, silly.”

“I'm notta showboatin' stallion!”

Pinkie stared at Rainbow Dash for a moment before she bust out laughing. “Hahahaheeheeheheh!”

“What!?”

“Nothin', ne'ermind. Hows about one more round an' we call it quits?”

“Wassa matter? Losin' yer nerve?”

“Heehee, Dashie it's not a competishun. I juss don't want yoo to drink too much.”

“You think you can drink mor'n me?”

“Yoo said yoo don't drink!”

“I said, I don' yuz-yu-ah-ly drink!”

Pinkie gave Rainbow a hard look. “Okey-dokie-loki... but yoo better not fall asleep later!”

“Why're we goin' t' thuh park?” Rainbow asked for the... somethingth time.

“Cuz thash what weer s'possed ta do, silly!”

“But why?”

Pinkie began laughing uncontrollably and couldn't manage to say anything coherent until they had actually reached the park. “Haha... huhuh.” *Sigh* “Butt.”

“Wut?”

“Wat-wat, in th' butt!”

I'm too... whatever for this, Rainbow thought to herself through the fog in her head. I feel like there's molasses comin' outta my ears. “Pinkie, thisus lame. Why're we inna park thiss late.”

“Uh. Hang on, I'll show yoo.” Pinkie began running to and fro in wobbly, meandering sprints, looking for something. “Ah-HA! C'mere, Dashie~!”

Rainbow hung her head and ran over to Pinkie, stumbling over a root that she must have seen just before stepping on it. “Hey! Tha'tree tripped me!”

“Heeheehee, tricky trees tripping truly troubled... uhh~” Pinkie's eyes rolled up, then her head tipped back, then she reared up on her hind-legs, before finally flipping onto her back. “Haha, I can't, um. Oh, wait, look. Look, look!” She exclaimed as she remembered what she was doing.

Dash followed her excitable friend's hoof and saw a young couple spread out in the grass under a nearby tree, stargazing. “So?” she asked.

“Thash why weer heer!” Pinkie explained while still laying on her back. “Cuz ov th' loverbirds! There're always loverbirds in th' park in th' evenin's!”

“And?”

“U~m. I'm not shure. Thish made sense earlier. Shomething about going t' the park cuz... hey!”

“Wut?” Rainbow was getting impatient.

“From upshide-down, they look like they're flying o'er the tree, but they're not cuz if they were it'd knock the applesh down and then they'd get hit with applesh.”

“OH!” Duh, that's why we're here! “Pinkie that's a great idea for a prank!”

“Really?”

“C'mon, less clime tha'tree tha'tripped me and I'll zoom over 'em while you hold on and we'll make it rain apples!”

“Wee! Free pony rides!”

After about ten minutes of futilely trying to climb a tree with hooves, while drunk, Rainbow Dash finally wrapped her legs around Pinkie Pie's midsection and lifted them up into the tree, where they awkwardly switched positions, so that Pinkie was on Rainbow's back. “Yay! I pref- prof- pru-ah; I like being on top anyway.”

“Juss don' mess with my wings, okay?”

“Okey-dokie-loki.”

Rainbow threw herself from the tree with all the force her legs could muster. Once her wings were clear of the branches she spread them wide to catch the air and began racing toward the other tree, hoping to just skim the tips of it's tallest branches.

“Fashter, Dashie, fashter!” Pinkie shouted over the wind in their ears. “Yoo're too high,” she insisted and pushed down on the back of Rainbow's head. The pair of them flew headlong into the trees branches, and tumbled down in a noisy, painful, clumsy heap. Pinkie giggled uncontrollably again, occasionally managing to yell, “Again!”

“Did we make it rain apples on 'em?” Rainbow asked pitifully as she raised her head to look around. She couldn't see the couple.

“U~h, nope!” *Giggle* “I don't even shee them. And thish ishn't an apple tree. I think we went th' wrong way.”

“What'd you push me for? I said not to mess with me and anyway, we wanted t' knock the apples outta the tree, not us!”

“But you can't knock applesh down without hittin' th' tree. And, you shaid not to touch yer wingsh. You didn't shay anything about yer head!”

Rainbow rolled Pinkie off of her and stretched her wings. She was just about to fly off and leave Pinkie when she saw a pony in a dark hoodie peek out from the bushes and hiss at Pinkie. “What are you doing? You were supposed to take her on a romantic date not... I don't even know what you're doing!”

“Well, duh. Yoo jusht ashked what I was doing!”

Rainbow Dash crouched low and crept around the far side of the tree. She inched towards the bush as she listened to their conversation.

“Why are you flying into trees? Why did you get so drunk!?”

“Yoo shaid the bar had good drinksh.”

“Yes, I told you to go and get a little tipsy, but- Rainbow Dash, I can see you!”

Rainbow pounced as fast as she could and went terribly wide. She thrust face-first into the bush and began struggling to reach the other side where Pinkie Pie and the mysterious interloper were still talking.

“This is ridiculous,” the dark pony berated. “All you needed to do was try to get her a little uninhibited, put her in the mood, and make your move. Did you give her the cupcakes?”

“Yesh,” Pinkie answered in a huffy tone. “I took her for dinner an' drinksh an' brought her to the park, too. We were having fun!”

Dash stopped struggling against the bush and tried to pull herself back out on her side instead.

“Pinkie, if you want her to come around, you can't just go out and have fun, you need to let her know it's more serious than that.”

“But...”

Rainbow came free of the brambles and leaped over the bush. She landed on the unknown mare and pinned her to the ground. “I've got you now! Whadda ya want from us!?”

“Dashie, stop! She's a friend of mine!”

Rainbow pulled the hood off of the pinned pony. I recognize her, but... “Hey, you're the sex-shop pony! Wait.” Rainbow stepped off of Play Date and turned to Pinkie Pie. “You said tonight didn' have anything t' do with all that sex club craziness. What was all this about?” Rainbow felt herself tearing up and tried to hide it. Why am I so upset? She looked up at the stars in the sky.

“I'm no good at this kinda thing, Dashie, but... isn't it beautiful tonight?”

“What?” Dash looked back down at Pinkie and got right in her face. “What does that have to do with anything?”

“It's what those other ponies came here for!” Pinkie spoke quickly, sounding nervous and excited. “It's what I was trying to say earlier, I just- it's not- That's what this was about!”

What? Rainbow Dash tried to shake the remaining molasses out of her ears. She can't mean-

Pinkie grabbed her face to stop her from shaking her head, and kissed her.

OHMYGOSH. Pinkie, she's- but why? I-I don't... Rainbow closed her eyes and her whole body tensed up. Ah, her tongue. Warm tingling feelings made her head seem even lighter than the drinks had done. Why do I... like this? Rainbow relaxed and leaned into Pinkie, parting her lips a little more and pushing her tongue forward. She smells so sweet, even with the alcohol on her breath. They parted and pulled away from each other. Rainbow opened her eyes and looked into Pinkie's. Is it just the drinks? I don't really feel that drunk anymore.

“P-Pinkie, do you..?”

“I really really like you, Dashie. I didn't know what to do about it, especially since I kinda pushed you away by being so pushy. Play Date came to talk to me about it, and I realized... I just pushed so hard 'cause I wanted to do... those kinda things with you. She told me that I needed to take it slow, which is kinda ironic since you're so fast. I mean, not fast that way, but-”

Rainbow put her hoof over Pinkie's mouth. “Are you saying that you... love me?”

“Ahf mwrly mwuh-” Pinkie started before Rainbow put her hoof down. “Heehee, yeah. I really do, Dashie.”

Rainbow felt herself blush even deeper than before. “I don't know what to say. This is kinda sudden. I've only really been in one serious relationship before. It's been a while.”

“Even if things go kinda sour, or you don't want to try, we'll always be friends. I just really hope you wanna give it a whirl. 'Cause... worst case, it'd be the most fun dysfunctional relationship ever.”

“Haha, put the fun in dysfunctional, right?”

“Mhmm!”

“Um, let me think about it, I guess.”

“OH, COME ON!” a nearby mulberry bush shouted in frustration.

“Was that-” Rainbow started.

“I think Play Date is spying again,” Pinkie interrupted. “I'm pretty sure she's hoping that you'll join the Club if we become marefriends.”

“Seriously?”

“I'm not sure why. I kinda thought she'd be mad about the whole thing. I guess she just doesn't wanna punish anybody. Um..?”

“Yeah?”

“Can we do this again soon? Maybe with a little bit less to drink and we can try to ditch Play Date?”

“Totally.” I better do this before the alcohol completely wears off. “Uh, can I get a... er, goodnight kiss?”

*Giggle* “We won't kiss goodnight 'till one of us gets home, Dashie! That doesn't mean we can't go ahead and do it some more right now, though.” The two of them proceeded to engage in a drawn-out, remorseless public display of affection until they finally made their way back to Sugarcube Corner. “I don't think you should fly home drunk, Rainbow Dash.”

“But if I stay here, you'll take advantage of me.”

“Nope! I Pinkie Promise not to take advantage of you, cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye.”

“Aw,” Dash teased.

“Heehee, it's not taking advantage if you wa~♪nt it.”

“Maybe. Let's try some neck action before we go any lower.”

Across the street, hiding in the shadows, a particularly happy Play Date was congratulating herself. It was only a matter of time until Pinkie's next saucy party, and things would almost certainly sort themselves out then. There was absolutely no way this could possibly backfire.

Author's Note

I am... slightly late. I can't seem to get a handle on this schedule business. I'm going to try and get some sort of a buffer going as some point, to try and help keep these bi-weekly updates on time. It doesn't help that I'm usually working on it until the last minute, either. With that in mind, please point out any technical mistakes or seemingly odd word choice. The simple stuff is just as important as any other feedback.

It occurs to me that it is strange that I'm writing a story with a combination of RariLight and RainbowPie when the only ships from the Main 6 that I actually hold a candle for are RariJack, FlutterDash and Twinkie. Well, those and Twixie and Pixie. But I mean, c'mon. Best Pony, second best, third best. :trixieshiftright::twilightblush::pinkiesmile:

SO. Question time, my faithful readers. Which ships have a special place in your hearts? Please let me know in the comments. It won't affect the story, unless I put some cameos in Club party scenes, but it's still a good topic for discussion.