Destinies Intertwined

by NotRamjet97

Rating: teen
Tags: Romance, Adventure, Alternate Universe, Anthro
Length: 52971

An old threat is returning to Equestria with a vengeance, but the Elements of Harmony aren't working! And when a changeling reveals that he has a pure heart and that there are others like him, how will the land of Equestria take it? (Anthro, AU)

Despite being back around two years, Luna is still having difficulty with all that has changed.

And that's not the only thing, the mane 6 are beginning to slowly drift apart, especially when they begin to see the stallions around them in a new light. Which isn't good thing when an old enemy returns, and wants the six friends' heads!

And why the hay is Caramel acting so funny?

Prequel: Feathers and Ruffles

Sequel: The New Generation

(Sex tag for safety)

(Written with Autobot Lancewing)
(Thank you to Minette for editing this and looking over it)
(Set in an alternate universe, complete with 90s technology :D)
(After Magic Duel :D)
(Anthro :D)
(Smiley faces :D)
[size=10](Yeah, the description sucks, I know)[/size]

Published 1970-01-01 00:00:00 UTC
Last updated 2014-06-02 18:54:33 UTC

Chapter 2

Twilight Sparkle waited impatiently by the bathroom door, waiting to relieve herself of the discomfort in her stomach. "Ooh! Spike, can you please hurry up? I really have to go."

"Yeah, yeah, I'm almost done." Spike announced back, and after a few agonizing moments, Spike exited only wearing a pair of boxers.

"Thanks Spike!" And with that Twilight bolted into the bathroom, but as Spike was about to go downstairs, he heard Twilight yell. "Spike?!"

"What?!" He yelled back.

"Put some clothes on!"

"Whatever." The dragon muttered under his breath. He normally slept in his boxers during the warmer months, but now that it was Autumn he needed a change.

Spike changed his route and went to his room, which was further down the hall. Upon entering, he flipped the light on and grabbed a pair of pants he had worn....sometime, and put them on. Not seeing the need for anymore covering, he plopped down on his bed and gazed up at the ceiling, trying to think of what to do before he had to go to bed in a couple hours.

Video games? Nah, he was tired of those for today.

Television? No, probably nothing on.

Call Rarity? Nah, that would look creepy.

Wait a minute...creepy. Nightmare Night was coming up (in eleven months) , and he hadn't figured out what he'd wear to the party Pinkie Pie was (bound to be) throwing...Yeah! He'd call Rarity and ask her to make him a costume, then he could talk with her all night.

Grinning, Spike reached over for the wireless phone on his nightstand and dialed Rarity's number. After ringing a couple times, Sweetie Belle picked up. "Hello?"

"Hey Sweetie, it's me, Spike. Is Rarity home?"

"Yeah, let me get her."

Spike waited a few minutes, then. "She can't come to the phone right now, she's getting dressed for bed, I told her you called and she said she'll talk to you after she’s dressed.”

"Oh, okay. Thanks."

"Yeah, see ya Spike."

"Bye."

Spike put the phone back in it's holder and lay back on his bed, sighing. He hoped his crush would call back, if only to hear her sweet voice before he went to bed. Suddenly there was a knock at the door, scaring Spike. He looked over to the door and called. "Come in!"

The door opened and Twilight entered. She was wearing a white button up shirt with the school crest of Celestia's school for gifted unicorns on the right side, a yellow skirt, purple pantie hose, and no shoes. "Hey, Spike, I'm gonna take my shower now, is there anything you need?"

Spike thought for a moment, and said. "No, I'm good."

"Okay, I lo-, er, o-okay." Twilight rubbed her ear, a small amount of pink coming across her lavender cheek, but closed the door using her magic.

Spike, not noticing Twilight’s odd behavior, hopped off his bed and went over to his chest of drawers, examining his ARMO collection. He picked up one of the small figures and fiddled with them, trying to think of a costume for Nightmare Night, but still nothing.

Spike suddenly put the figure down when he heard the phone ring. He dove over towards the desk, but skinned his knee on the carpet and banged his head against the nightstand. "Ow!" He rubbed his head for a few moments, then grabbed the phone. "Hello? Concussion central."

Spike heard a feminine giggle, then. "Spikey, you little comedian."

Spike recognized the voice as Rarity, he quickly bolted up to his bare feet and replied. "Oh, hey Rarity, thanks for calling me back, uh, if that's what you were calling me about."

"Yes, I was, but if you don't mind, I'd rather talk to you about it tomorrow, there's something important I need to talk to you about in person, as well. But I am simply exhausted."

"Okay, when do you want me over?"

"Erm...How would brunch at nine sound?"

"Uh, suuure...Um, is it just the two of us? Or will Sweetie Belle be there?"

"Don't worry, darling, it will just be you, me, and some donuts."

Spike's long, forked tongue did a lap around his lips. "Sounds good to me."

"Alright, see you at nine."

"Okay, bye."

"Bye." Spike heard Rarity hang up and he did the same before putting the phone in its’ holder.

Spike took a deep breath. "Okay Spike, it's not a huge deal, I'm just having brunch..." A smile spread across his face, "With the most beautiful unicorn in Equestria..." Spike slumped down, propping his bare back against the bed. "Wow, it's almost like...a....No, it's not a..." Spike raised an eyebrow. "Is it?"

*****

After rearranging his ARMO sets around for a while (AKA his term for playing with them), Spike heard a knock on the door. "Come in." 'Aren't I getting a lot of attention?' Spike thought.

Twilight came in, now wearing a Canterlot Wondercolts sweatshirt, sweat pants, and bare feet. "Hey Spike, are you doing okay?"

Spike stood up, he was a couple inches taller than his roommate, so he was able to look her in the eye. "Yeah, Rarity asked me to meet her for brunch tomorrow at nine."

"Oh, okay, I hope you have fun."

"Thanks."

Twilight bit her lip, looking like she wanted something...

"You ok, Twi?"

"Um...Can you put a shirt on or something? I know you like wearing as little clothing as possible, but you really need to keep warm."

"Twi!" Spike moaned. "I'm a dragon! They've been enduring winter for thousands of years completely buck naked! I think I'll be fine."

"Maybe," Twilight suddenly pulled Spike into a hug. "but you’re MY dragon."

"Twilight!" Spike moaned, but he liked feeling the warmth of Twilight's body against his. He hugged her back, lightly pressing his face against her neck. After a bit of a delay, Twilight began to rub Spike's back in a motherly way.

"Spike?" Twilight asked softly.

"Hmm?"

"There's something I've been meaning to tell you..."

Spike looked at Twilight. "Yeah?"

"Uh..." Twilight looked into Spike's eyes. "Just...don't eat too much tomorrow." Twilight smiled.

"Uh...Okay..."

Twilight let go of her assistant and as she was closing the door on her way out, she wished Spike a good night.

*****

Since he didn’t want to be grumpy or groggy for Rarity tomorrow, Spike decided he had better head on to bed. He turned off the light and got into bed, pulling a large comforter over himself, and soon, drifted off to sleep...

Chapter 3

“Okay, if I can average seventy-five miles an hour, I think I can make it in time for the X-ga-”

"Hellooooooooo Rainbow Dash!"

"What the-?!" Rainbow pulled the Camaro to a screeching halt, but it wasn't quick enough and she hit a fire hydrant. The hydrant fell over and the Camaro sailed a couple of feet in the air. The airbags suddenly activated and pounded Rainbow in the face. "Oaf!" Rainbow laid her head back and moaned, "I thought these things are supposed to help!"

The exasperated pegasus opened the door and stepped out, examining the damage. "Dagnabit!" She yelled, irritated. The entire front bumper was dented in, and there was smoke coming from under the hood.

"Ooh! That doesn't look so good." Pinkie Pie observed, bouncing on a light blue pogo stick.

Rainbow pursed her lips and glared at her pink friend. She had been used to Pinkie's antics by now, but this one REALLY ticked her off. "Pinkie..."

"Yes Dashie?"

Rainbow closed her eyes, and inhaled. She knew she'd regret it if she yelled at Pinkie Pie, so she exhaled, and asked, in the nicest voice she could. "Can you call a tow truck?"

"Sure Dashie, I'll be back in a second!" Pinkie Pie bounced into Sugarcube Corner, the home she shared with the Cakes, while Dash inspected the damage.

She popped open the hood and- "You’ve got to be buckin' KIDDING ME!" She whispered through clenched teeth. The inter-cooler fan was laying on the sidewalk, the battery being dowsed by the erupting water, which was also soaking Dash, but she was too upset to notice, and the recently installed turbo was crumpled.

Rainbow closed the hood and sat on the front fender, a tear rolling down her cheek. "Seriously?" She muttered, the shock of possibly losing her precious Camaro, all the crud she would have to go through with her insurance, the parts, labor. Rainbow sighed, and rested her head in her right hand, while also drawing her wet wings close to her wet jacket. "This REALLY sucks..."

"I called the tow truck Dashie," Pinkie told her friend. "Should be here in a few minutes."

Rainbow sighed. "Thanks, Pinkie. Guess I better wait here for the truck driver." Rainbow sat on the sidewalk and crossed her arms, resting her head in them. As hot tears began to streak down the pegasus' cheeks, she felt something touch her back. She looked behind her and saw Pinkie's arm resting on her back, with said pony having a sincere smile on her face.

"It's okay, Dashie, I'm here for ya." Pinkie sat next to Dash and pulled her close, allowing Dash to rest her head on Pinkie's shoulder.

"Thanks, Pinkie."

"No problem, Dashie."

*****

"Thanks for coming to the garage, Pinkie. I know how late it is." Rainbow said, sitting on one of the incredibly uncomfortable chairs in the waiting room by the garage where her car was being looked over.

"No problem, Rainbow. Also..." Pinkie, who had stood the whole time, was looking very nervous and digging the toe of her tennis shoe in the carpet. "Thanks for not getting mad at me for wrecking your car..."

"Oh… That's okay, it's not really your fault, it was just an accident."

"Aww! Thanks, Dashie." Pinkie hugged Rainbow tightly.

"Uhh....Pinkie, you're kinda killin’ me, here."

"Oops! Sorry."

Suddenly, the loudspeaker crackled and a voice spoke, "Miss Dash, your ninety-three Camaro SS is done."

Rainbow stood up and swallowed as the two girls walked out. "Good luck, Dashie." Pinkie waved as she left and went outside of the garage, while Rainbow walked over to the main desk.

"Alright, what's the damage?" Dash asked the mechanic.

"Fifty-five hundred bits."

Rainbow's jaw dropped. "What about insurance?"

"Good luck with that, missy."

Rainbow rubbed her temples, trying to think. "Do you accept Wonderbolts tickets?"

"As hot as Spitfire is, no."

"So what happens if I DON'T pay?"

"Your car will be impounded after a week."

"...seriously?"

"'Fraid so."

"....Darn it all!" Rainbow muttered. Then an idea sprung to her. "Wait! How much would it cost to take it out of the impound lot?"

"Fifteen thousand gems, seeing as how all the cops want that thing for all the trouble it's caused."

"What trouble?"

"Speeding, noise, accide-"

"Okay, okay, whatever." Rainbow left the garage in a huff, utterly annoyed.

*****

Rainbow angrily zipped up her jacket and pulled the hood over her head. This wasn't fair, she had helped save the world three times and she was going to lose her car? Rainbow kicked at a can angrily, but missed. This made her even angrier, so she kicked at it harder. The can sailed into the air and hit the bulb of a light post, knocking it off.

"Ugh! Can I catch a break here?!" She shouted, she looked up to the dark skies, spread out her wings, and flew up as high as she could. She flew higher and higher, faster and faster. Suddenly she pulled to an abrupt stop and looked for a cloud. She soon found one and landed, then sat down, hugging her knees, and rested her head in her lap. She sat there for a few moments… and began to cry, letting her emotions slide down her cheeks.

"Stupid-" But that was all she managed to say before bursting into another wave of tears. She lay on her side, and tried to stay warm in the cold weather.

How in the world was she going to get this money...

*****

When Rainbow Dash awoke, she found herself on a rather uncomfortable couch-

-but it smelled like animal fur.

Curious, she opened her eyes, and saw the material of a blue couch, with a flowery pattern. 'What the heck?'

She turned on her side and suddenly realized she was in Fluttershy's cottage. She pulled the blanket off of her body and looked around. There were a lot of animals, which was how she could tell she was in her friend's cottage, she always found it a little creepy how all the animals would glare at her. She really shouldn't house sit for Fluttershy anymore. Rainbow decided it was best if she could find Fluttershy to figure out why the heck she was at her house.

Suddenly, the smell of blueberry pancakes coming from the kitchen. She had been in the house multiple times, so she knew where to bolt to. Fluttershy was standing over an oven, flipping a pancake with a spatula.

Rainbow leaned on the doorway and watched as her friend worked on the pancakes. Fluttershy glanced over at the doorway and noticed Rainbow. "Eep! I didn't realize you were up, I thought you'd be a while."

"Oh, well, I'm glad you're up. Would you like a pancake?"

"Umm...I guess...but, um..."

"Yes?"

"How'd I get here? I was on a cloud last time I checked."

"Oh, well...I was out looking for Tina's mate, and while I was flying, I found you."

"Oh… You lugged me all the way here?"

"...N-no, I asked Boz, who's a bear, to help me."

"...Oh. Um, can I ask you somethin' else?"

"What?"

"Um, why'd you take me in? Why not drop me off at my place?"

"Well, I saw Pinkie Pie kinda upset, and when I asked her why, she said that you had wrecked your car, and that you couldn't pay for the repairs, and it was going to get impounded."

"Um… Okay... But still, why not just let me go home?"

"Well, ‘cause I need to give you something."

Before Rainbow could reply, Fluttershy went up to her cabinet and grabbed a rather large bag, then handed it to Rainbow. "I-It's not quite enough, but it should help."

In the bag, was three thousand bits, causing Rainbow's jaw to drop. "FLUTTERS!"

"Um, I know it's not enough, but-"

Rainbow brought Fluttershy into a quick, tight hug. "Thankyouthankyouthankyouthankyouthankyou!"

"Um...you’re welcome..."

"But how did you get the money?"

"Um, it's… kinda private..."

Rainbow's eyes widened. "Fluttershy, you're not a-"

"N-no...just don't worry about it, please?"

"O-okay, thanks Flutters… Um… Do you need any help around here?"

"No, I'm fine. But, please don't tell anypony about this?"

"Why? This is the most super awesome thing anyone's done for me!"

"Th-thank you, but, please. It's-private."

Rainbow sighed in defeat. "Okay, see ya."

"Um, okay. But you're sure you don't wanna pancake?"

"Yeah, I'm not real hungry. Thanks though!"

"Okay, bye."

Rainbow bolted out of the cottage, payday was in a few days, and if she worked MAJOR overtime, she could pay off the repairs!

But, what was with Fluttershy? What was she hiding?

Rainbow knew she had to get to the bottom of this, but she couldn’t betray Fluttershy’s promise.

Could she?

Chapter 4

After Rainbow Dash left the cottage, Fluttershy decided that it was time to start her morning routine. Breakfast was already taken care of, but she still needed to feed the animals. She began preparing the food according to each animal’s dietary requirements. She then proceeded to deliver the food to them according to distance as some of the food needed to be served within a time limit before it spoils. It was majorly time consuming, but she completed her task.

Fluttershy then starts making a list of items that she needs to restock on. She also decided to pay Rarity a visit.  After all, she hadn’t seen Rarity since Twilight’s duel with Trixie, and she thought that it would be a good idea to catch up with her.

After Fluttershy finishes her list, she puts on a jacket and walks out the door. She pulled her jacket closer to her, trying to keep warm from the cool Winter breeze. ‘I hope she’s doing okay, it’s been a while and-’

Suddenly, she bumps into somepony.

“Oh, I’m so sorry, are you o-...Oh...my.”

The pony, who turned out to be a stallion, brushed himself off and replied. “Don’t worry about. I’m fine.”

Fluttershy stared at him. It was Caramel, AKA the stallion she had a crush on since she had moved to Ponyville! Fluttershy’s cheeks began to turn a dark pink.

“Um, you alright?” Caramel asked.

“I-err-um-EEP!” Fluttershy bolted to the sky as fast as her wings could.

She soon found a large cloud and hid behind it. Watching as a befuddled Caramel scratched his head, and soon left. Fluttershy slowly fluttered (heh) down to the ground and sighed heavily.

“Oh, why do I have to be such a klutz.”

“Fluttershy!”

“EEP!” Fluttershy bolted back to the cloud, but saw that it was only Rarity, waving at her. She was wearing a violet jacket, white T-shirt, jeans, and tennis shoes.

“Oh, hello Rarity,” Fluttershy greeted as she descended to the ground (looking somewhat like an angel).

“Hello Fluttershy! My it’s been ages since we’ve talked. How are you?”

“Um, good. I was actually coming over to see you, if that’s okay, I mean.”

“Of course Fluttershy! But I need to pick up some medicine from the pharmacist first, poor Sweetie Bell has a stomach ache.”

“Oh, poor thing. Is there something you’d like me to do?”

“Oh, don’t worry Fluttershy, I’m taking good care of her.”

“Oh. Well that’s good. Has anything else happened?”

“Why yes. I happened to see Rainbow Dash while I was on my way to the marketplace. She seemed to be in a rather good mood.”

“Oh, that’s good to hear.”

“Yes...Um, you wouldn’t know why, would you, dear?”

“Well, her car needed to be repaired after she ran into a fire hydrant, and the cost to repair it would be very expensive.”

“I see, so why was she so happy? Doesn’t she love that car?”

Fluttershy looked at Rarity and said, “She is. She’s just happy because I gave her some money to pay for her car.”

Rarity looked at her friend. “That sounds like it would be expensive.”

Fluttershy suddenly realized what she just said. “Oh, well, it wasn’t that much…”

“Really? Repairing cars is expensive, especially when there was an accident. And when it’s a car like hers, I’d expect it to be-”

“Three thousand bits.”

“THREE THOUSAND WHAT?!”

A moment of silence passes.

Fluttershy realized that she should have kept quiet about Rainbow Dash’s situation.

Rarity finally spoke, “I have to ask, how did you come across that much money?”

Fluttershy rubbed her arm, “I-it’s...private…”

Rarity, sighed. She wanted to know her friend’s secret, but at the same time, she didn’t want Fluttershy to feel uncomfortable.

Meanwhile, Fluttershy was looking at Rarity’s expression. She didn’t want her secret to influence her friendship with her, but she also didn’t want Rarity to get the wrong idea.

Finally, Rarity broke the silence, “Fluttershy, it isn’t anything illegal or anything, is it?”

“No. But I just feel uncomfortable about it.”

Rarity sighed. Knowing if Fluttershy were being this strong, it must've been worth keeping secret. "Alright, Fluttershy. Alright." She thought about it for a moment, then, "Fluttershy, would you like to come by my place?"

Fluttershy nodded.

Rarity smiled, "Good, but I’m having a brunch with Spike, so I'm afraid it won't be much time."

“It’s okay. I can come by later if you want. We’d probably have more time then.”

"...Actually, I want to talk to you beforehand."

That was when Fluttershy began to have that feeling that something’s up. “Oh. O-Okay. Is there anything wrong?”

"Possibly..."

Fluttershy couldn’t possibly ignore her on this one. As the Element of Kindness, she can’t let a problem go unsolved. “Okay. Can you tell me here, or do we need to talk elsewhere?”

"I'd like to talk at home, I just feel so worried about it."

“Then say no more.”

*****

Upon entering Rarity's boutique, the girls hung their coats on the hanger and Rarity went into the kitchen. "Would you like some coffee or tea, darling," Rarity asked from the kitchen.

"Um... Tea please," Fluttershy replied.

Rarity filled the kettle with water, turned the stove on, and left some tea bags in before closing the lid.

Upon entering Rarity saw that Fluttershy was still standing. "You may sit down if you want to, Fluttershy."

“Oh no, I couldn’t.”

“I insist.”

“Oh, ok.” Fluttershy quickly sat down on the nearest chair, while Rarity lay on the couch. “So, what was it you wanted to talk about?” Fluttershy asked, looking at Rarity.

“Well, you see...over the past few months I’ve been growing rather...attracted to someone..”

“Oh? Who is it? If you don’t mind my asking.”

“Well...He’s kind, sweet, generous, handsome, caring-”

“You have a crush on Caramel, too,” Fluttershy screeched (though, it was probably wasn’t much louder than someone talking in their normal voice).

“No...I was talking about Spike,” Rarity gave her friend a concerned look.

Fluttershy’s eyes grew wide as she realized she had made a complete fool of herself. “Oh, I-I’m sorry, I guess I’ve just been distracted and-”

“Fluttershy,” Rarity went over to where Fluttershy sat and gave her a big hug, “It’s alright to have a crush on someone, you don’t need to hide it.”

“But, what if he doesn’t like me?”

“Then he doesn’t deserve you one little bit,” Rarity’s tone firming. “You have so many good qualities, any man would be lucky to have you as their girlfriend.”

Fluttershy blushed, “Really?”

“Yes, sometimes I envy you, Fluttershy.

“You do?”

Rarity nodded.

"Oh, but I'm not as social as you are, or as sophisticated."

“Well, there was that one time you became a model for Photo Finish.”

"I know, but I hated every minute of being a model, I'm so glad I had stopped. She said something about modeling swimwear surfing the summer, and I could never do that."

Rarity thought about it for a minute. “That is true, but you do have a way of attracting men.”

“I do?”

"Absolutely! And that's something since quite a few men are just attracted to a woman by how skimpily she dresses, but you're different, and men that are much more concerned with the girl inside, see that."

"Oh...thank you," Fluttershys blush deepened.

"You're welcome," Rarity smiled.

Knowing that they went off the subject, Fluttershy decided to get back to Rarity’s crush on… Spike?

"So...why do you have a crush on Spike? If I may ask.”

“Well, he has those adorable cheeks, beautiful green eyes. He's charming and caring and-everything I want in a man."

“Okay… But isn’t he a little… young?”

“Well, yes, but I really don’t think the age matters here.”

"Oh, not even him being a dragon?"

"Fluttershy, it's not like I'm dating an animal, this is sweet, wittle Spikey-Wikey."

“I only brought that up because dragons normally live longer than ponies.”

"I know, but we all die, don't we?"

“That is true…”

"Fluttershy, this isn't easy for me, I’m concerned the most with whether or not I'm good enough for him, after all, there must be someone more deserving of Spike then I."

Fluttershy looked toward the window. “Well, I think you’re the perfect one for Spike.”

“You think so?”

Fluttershy simply nodded.

Chapter 5

Twilight sat cross-legged on the floor writing in a notebook, carefully writing her friendship report for the month. Meanwhile, Spike came down the stairs, wearing a nice white sweater and nice jeans. Spike grabbed his nice jacket off of the coat rack. “I’m off, Twilight.”

“Oh, okay, bye.” Twilight said, very much engrossed in her letter.

Spike opened the door to leave, but immediately heard Twilight say, “Spike, wait! I’m about to finish this letter. Could you send it to Princess Celestia?”

Spike sighed loudly, “Uh-huh.” Spike angrily took the letter and blew it to Celestia, but now he had to wait for a response.

“Um...where are you going again?”

Spike grunted. “I’m going to a brunch with Rarity, I thought I told you.”

“You might want to lose the attitude before you go see her.”

“What attitude?”

“The one that you’re having right now. I’m sure Rarity will understand if you’re late.”

"Still, if you went to a meal with someone you...It's just irritating, ok?"

“I know, but just calm down. I’ll explain it to her if you want me to.”

"I'd rather *BELCH!*" the letter came out and landed at Twilight's feet.

Twilight couldn’t resist giggling as she picked up the letter.

Spikes cheeks turned pink as he slammed the door in Twilight's face, improving his mood a bit.

Twilight opened the letter.

Dear Twilight Sparkle, my most faithful student,

You and your friends have created a strong bond. It fills my heart with joy knowing that you are getting closer to knowing the full extent of friendship. However, you must be aware that there will be greater challenges that will put the bonds you created to the test, but it will encourage you to know that the reward will be even greater.

‘Reward? She never said anything about a reward. I guess I'll just have to wait and see.’ She continued reading.

That being said, I noticed that the letter was a little wrinkled, and there were claw marks present.

"SPIKE!!!!!!" Twilight was so engrossed in her anger, that she didn’t pay much attention to the rest of the letter.

Is Spike okay? I have a feeling that he might be starting to grow apart from you. If that’s the case then I suggest talking with him. If the problem isn’t resolved, then there will be some emotional damage that might not be fixed. Believe me, I know.

Twilight grabbed some paper and began writing another letter.

Dear Princess Celestia,

I’m sorry that my letter arrived in such a condition. Spike was being a little baby because I needed him to stay for just a few minutes so I could send you my report on friendship. I don’t know what’s wrong with him, for the past few months; he’s been moody, and it’s driving me crazy. Rest assured though, I will correct the problem.

Your faithful student,

Twilight Sparkle

Twilight took an envelope and neatly put the letter in the envelope before going outside. She saw the mail girl, Derpy, fly (clumsily) towards her. She looked at the mail girl. “Derpy Hooves, I have an important letter for you.” That brought Derpy to full attention. “This letter goes directly to Princess Celestia. I need it there post haste.”

“Uh, sorry Ms. Sparkle, I don’t send hate mail. It’s bad.”

“No! Look, just send it to the Princess quickly, ok?”

“Oh, alright.” Derpy took the letter and put it in her lunch box.

“Derpy, shouldn’t that go in your mail bag?”

“Nope.”

“But- Fine, just get it to her.”

“Will do!”

As Twilight watched Derpy fly off (still curious about why her letter had been put in a lunch box), she made her way quickly to Rarity’s home, trying to decide on how to deal with Spike’s attitude. Then, it came to her, it was so simple, and yet so effective… She had been too easy on him. At this point, it was time to give him a little tough love.

******

Meanwhile, Princess Celestia was signing yet another document. That was pretty much her entire morning because that paperwork just couldn’t wait. Of course, the peace treaty between Equestria and Canis was about to expire. Why the treaty had to have an expiration date was beyond her. It wasn't like it was milk or cheese, but if it prevents a war, then she would have to oblige. After her name went onto the paper, she rolled it up and sent it to Canis’s leader.

But after a few seconds, another letter appeared along with a certain mail carrier. Derpy looked at Celestia and said, “I have a very important letter for you, Princess Celestia.”

Celestia took the letter, but started to get a little concerned when she realized who it’s from. She looked back at Derpy. “Thank you.” She then made a muffin appear. “Here’s a little something for your troubles.”

“Oh it was no trouble at all,” Derpy answered while putting the muffin in her mail bag.

Celestia gave a confused look, “Um… isn’t that where you keep the mail?”

“No,” Derpy replied while lifting her lunchbox, “this is where I keep the mail.”

Celestia that it was a little odd, but she decided to let it go. “Okay… Anyway, I’ll arrange for someone to escort you home.”

“Oh it’s okay. I can get back myself.”

“Are you sure?"

"Yup! Have a nice day!" And with that, Derpy opened a window and flew out.

Celestia was about to open the letter when…

“Good morning, Sister.”

Celestia looked up to see Luna. “Good morning, Lu-Lu. How was your evening?

“It was wonderful,” she said in a sing-song voice.

Celestia raised an eyebrow. She had a feeling that she was about to bring something up. “Okay… What happened?”

“Does something have to happen to make it wonderful?”

“Well, considering that you were singing that sentence…”

“Alright… I met someone.”

“Met someone?”

“Indeed.”

“That’s wonderful. Well, I’d like to meet him sometime later, but right now, Twilight sent me a letter, and I’m a little worried because she had it be sent by a courier.”

“Does she not have Spike for that?”

“That’s what worries me, Spike is starting to rebel against Twilight.” She opens the letter and beings reading. Her eyes widen as she reads it again, checking again for keywords. “That was not at all what I meant.” She hastily wrote another letter before sending it as she normally would.

“Um… Sister… I have a question.”

“Yes?”

“You said Spike was rebelling against Twilight, right?”

“Well, growing apart is what I meant, but yes.”

“And it’s likely that he’s away from Twilight, right?”

“Yes?”

“And you sent it using the same spell, right?”

“Correct.”

“So instead of Twilight, wouldn’t the letter be sent to…”

That was when they both said in perfect unison, “SPIKE!!!”

******

Spike gazed into the beautiful, blue eyes of the gorgeous, white unicorn. Spike, he couldn’t believe how fortunate he was to be doing this...whatever it was. “So...How are you?” Spike asked, wishing he could think of what to say.

“Good, what about you, Spike?”

“Uh...pretty good.”

“Good…”

An awkward silence followed.

Spike wasn't sure how to proceed, he had thought about doing this for so long, and now that it had arrived-he didn't have a clue. He could tell Rarity his feelings for her, but what if she rejected him? What if she thought he was sick for saying it? What if- "Spike?"

Rarity’s soothing voice brought Spike out of his thoughts. "Yes?"

Rarity inhaled heavily, trying to muster up some amount of courage."I've been meaning to tell you something."

"Oh?"

"Yes...You see Spike, for the past few months I've been hiding something from you, and Im annoyed with myself for keeping it from you. Spikey...I-I'd like is to be more than friends, I would like it very much, if you would that is, if we could start, well, dating."

Spike's eyes widened as he looked at Rarity. 'No way! She can't really mean that, she's just messing with you Spike. But Rarity doesn't mess with people, if this was Dash, maybe. But Rarity?'

"R-really?"

"Really," Rarity got up from her chair and moved over to Spike.

Spike adjusted himself to watch her, their eyes locked. The beautiful, slieek unicorn walked slowly toward Spike. She soon reached her destanation. She placed a hand on Spike's back, pulling herself closer. "Let me prove it," she whispered.

Spikes stomach began to feel light, his cheeks were burning, and why was it so hot?

Rarity placed her other hand on Spike's cheek, caressing it. Rarity was so close now that Spike could feel her breath on his face, and smell the perfume she wore. The hand that had been on his cheek slid slowly up to the back of his head, with the other following close behind.

'She's going to-'

Spike felt his nose brush hers, as Rarity tilted her head, their eyes began to close, they both inched closer and closer!

'Jackpot!'

Spike felt Rarity's upper lip brush against his own, as his tongue was about to-

"SPIKE!!!!!" The voice of Twilight Sparkle screeched.

"What?!" Spike jumped, resulting in Rarity falling backwards, but Spike acted quickly, managing to place his hands behind Rarity's back and bottom, catching her. He quickly pulled her up with the hand that had been on her back. "Sorry about that, I don't know what happened."

Rarity cleared her throat. "It's alright, but I would appreciate it if you took your hand off of my hind quarters."

"O-oh. I'm sorry, I didn't-"

"GET OUT HERE RIGHT NOW SPIKE!!" Twilight again shouted.

"It's alright, darling. But I suggest you go see what Twilight wants before she causes any more hearing loss."

"Yeah..." Spikes cheeks remained red, not from embarrassment. But from anger.

Twilight was tapping her foot.

"What is it now, Twilight," Spike asked, annoyed, leaning in the doorway.

“When Princess Celestia responded to my friendship report, she mentioned that it was wrinkled and that there were claw marks on it. There were only two people present (me and you), and only one of us has claws.”

"Your nails aren't that bad."

“Spike, you were the last one to handle it, and it was in good condition when I gave it to you.”

"Can I help it if I was frustrated?"

“This is exactly what I was talking about when I said that you need to control your temper.”

"What about you? You were shouting so loud I may need a hearing aid!"

“At least I don’t use that tone all the time.”

"Oh you don't? What about last week when-"

"Spike! You’re grounded!”

“I’m what?!”

“Starting now, you are staying home. No phone calls, no gems, no video games, no junk food, no sodas for two weeks. Do I make myself clear?”

“You can’t do that!”

“Your attitude has spiraled out of control and I am sick of it.”

“No it hasn’t!! Yours on the other hand IS!”

“That’s enough, Spike. you’re coming with me.”

“No, I’m having a meal with Rarity and I’m going to enjoy it.”

“No, you’re not. Now come before I’m forced to drag you back to the library.”

“Why? Can’t I be angry every once in a while?”

“You have been ‘angry’ almost every day. Why do you put me through this?”

“Put you through what?!”

“That!” Twilight grabbed Spike’s arm, trying to drag him.

“What are you doing?!” Spike asked angrily, trying to avoid Twilight’s grasp.

“I’m taking you home! You’re acting like a baby!”

“No I’m not!”

“Yes you are!” Twilight clutched at Spike’s shoulder, lugging him away, much to Spike’s annoyance.

“What is going on here?!”

They both looked and saw Rarity staring at them.

“Twilight, what is the meaning of this?!”

“Spike has had an attitude with me for this long and now I am going to get rid of the problem here and now.”

“You could have waited until he got home instead of doing this in public.”

“He wrinkled and punctured my letter to Celestia when he sent it. It is a clear sign that his attitude is starting to reach its deadliest point. If I don’t do something about it now, we could all pay for it later.”

“Twilight, I think you’re blowing this out of proportion, Spike’s not any of those things.”

“Remember his first birthday in Ponyville? He literally became a monster when his greed went out of control. I can’t imagine what would happen if I let the same thing happen with his anger.”

“And what about when you get angry, huh, Twilight?” Spike asked, smugly.

“Name one time I was out of control.”

“Well, there was this one time when you were afraid of your friendship report being late,” Rarity answered. “One attempt at sabotage later, you had everyone obsessed over a horrendous doll. You know, now that I think about it, I wonder what happened to it.”

“I was technically a nervous wreck, and that is a good point; I was never able to find that doll for weeks.” Then it hit her. “Wait, horrendous?!”

“Yes, horrendous! Did it not occur to you that that could have been the reason that you had to cast a spell to make everyone like it?”

“Look, this is between me and Spike, NOT YOU, so just go back in your house and make some gaudy dress.”

That was the last straw. She looked down at the ground, and pulled her hand into a fist. She powered up her horn and fired it directly at Twilight.

“What on Earth-?” Twilight looked up and saw that her hair- was GREEN?! “WHAT DID YOU DO?!?!”

“Gaudy, Twilight? I happened to make you that ‘gaudy’ dress you wore to the Grand Galloping Gala, and you liked it.”

“Yeah, after I gave you input.” Twilight said, using her magic to fix her mane.

“When you gave me input, it looked worse.”

“No, I improved it!”

“How? Even Hoity Toity agreed that they looked terrible after I put in your suggestions.”

“So? I don’t care about some stuck-up, rich pony’s opinion.”

“Like you, huh?”

Twilight was boiling mad at this point. So much so, that she was literally on fire for a second. She glared at Rarity, she charged her horn and fired a beam directly at the building. Twilight’s magic blasted a large hole in the boutique’s wall! Sweetie Belle looked right through it. “What the-,” the twelve-year-old squeaked, followed by a cough.

Rarity ran over to Sweetie Belle, and helped her out of the building. She held the shaking girl closely, but glared at Twilight. “Leave, now.” She told Twilight, her voice barely audible.

Twilight gave Rarity a death glare, before. “C’mon, Spike.”

But before he could move, Spike burped up the letter. He angrily kicked the letter.

"SPIKE! Stop acting like a baby and give me that darn letter!"

Spike huffed, and shoved the letter into Twilight. Twilight opened the letter and began to read it. Her heart sank when she read these words:

Twilight,

I’m afraid you misunderstood my words. What I mean was that you talk with Spike and try to come to an understanding. Spike’s experiencing adolescence, which explains his moodiness lately. This probably means you’ll have to have ‘The Talk’ with him, but please don’t blow this out of proportion, it’s natural for children to experience this. I’d be concerned if he wasn't moody.

Please be easy on Spike, I beg of you,

Princess Celestia

Twilight folded the letter and put it in her coat pocket, quietly bringing Spike with her. ‘What have I done,’ she thought to herself.

Chapter 7

It was 8 o’clock in the morning, Pinkie, Rainbow, Applejack, and Fluttershy were helping Rarity repair the hole that Twilight blew into her wall yesterday. Applejack had just arrived in Big Mac’s five year old white Ford pick up truck, a large amount of wood and plaster in the bed. The farm pony got out of the truck. She was wearing a brown jacket, her trademark cowboy hat, worn jeans, and boots. “Got the stuff here, Rares.”

“Thank you, darling.” Rarity said from her point, sitting on a lawn chair, sipping hot cocoa.

Rainbow, wearing a (ponified sports team) sweatshirt, jeans, and tennis shoes, heaved three planks and a sack of plaster. “You mind helpin, Rarity?” Rainbow asked, struggling with the weight of the supplies.

“I’m supervising, darling.” Rarity corrected.

“Can’t ya handle a few supplies, city girl?” Applejack asked, grabbing six planks and placing a bag of plaster on top.

“Whadda ya mean?” Rainbow asked.

“Nothin’,” Applejack grinned.

“She said ‘Can’t ya handle a few supplies, city girl?’”. Pinkie Pie-

Pinkie Pie: Whoah! Who are you?

NotRamjet97 Uh...Well, I’m NotRamjet97, and that’s Autobot Lancewing (points to blue anthropomorphic wolf)

Lancewing: Are we seriously breaking the fourth wall?

Wheeliefan101: The fourth wall’s already broken, the fifth wall on the other hand.

NotRamjet97: WHEELIEFAN101?!

Wheeliefan101: Aw yeah.

Lancewing: Anyway, this is a prequel to one of my stories. What happens here will lead-

NotRamjet97: SPOILER ALERT! SPOILER ALERT!

Lancewing: Why not? You already said so in the summary.

NotRamjet97: Um… Still… I don’t wanna blow anything, especially with The mane 6 and-

Lancewing: Okay, we get the point!

Rarity: If you don’t mind, I still have a hole in my wall.

Lancewing: Okay!

“Y’all right there, Pinkie?” Applejack asked.

“Yup! Just talking to NotRamjet97 and Autobot Lancewing.”

Lancewing: STOP BREAKING THE FOURTH WALL!

Pinkie Pie: Okie Dokie Lokie!

“Pinkie? Can we get to work?” Rainbow asked.

“Sure! Autobot Lancewing’s being a joykill anyway.”

“Moving on,” Rainbow Dash said, “So how did this happen again?”

“I heard these two guys talking and-”

“I meant the hole in the wall.”

“Twilight happened,” Rarity said, “She was yelling at Spike. I stepped in to try to stop her, because she was going to far, but then we got into an argument ourselves and that’s when she blew a hole in my wall.”

“My goodness,” Fluttershy exclaimed, “I’ve never seen Twilight get so upset.”

“Hmph! And on top of that she took Spikey Wikey from me right as I was about to ki-give him another donut.” That comment resulted in stares from the others. “What?”

“It sounded like you were gonna say-”

“Pinkie!” Rarity put a hand over Pinkie’s mouth.

“What? I was just gonna say-”

“Please! Don’t say anything,” Rarity’s eyes pleaded.

“Okie dokie lokie!” And Pinkie went back to work on the wall.

Rainbow looked at Applejack, who winked, Rainbow raised an eyebrow, not sure what her friend was implying. Applejack sighed and went over to Rainbow, nonchalantly whispering, “I’ll tell ya later.”

“What was that?” Rarity asked.

“What was what?” Rainbow questioned, knowing Applejack was a terrible liar, she decided to go with this.

“Applejack whispered something to you.”

“Nuh uh.”

“What did she say?”

“She said she thought Soarin’ was cute.”

“Wha-? Ah did not!” Applejack planted her hands on her hips.

“Yeah you did, you mentioned you go real crazy when he wears that skin tight suit that shows off his butt so-”

Applejack bolted towards Rainbow and tackled her to the ground. Applejack pressed her hands on Rainbow’s shoulder and glared at her. “Now...It’ payback time…” Applejack quickly moved her fingers directly under Rainbow’s armpits, and proceeded to tickle her pegasus friend.

Rainbow burst into an uncontrollable fit of laughter, as her friend’s fingers lightly poked her armpits. Tears began streaming down Rainbow’s cheeks as the assault continued.

“You two look like you’re having fun,” Twilight said as she walked up.

“Howdy, Twilight!” Applejack greeted, getting off of Rainbow, pulling the pegasus up from the ground. “Did y’all come ta help?”

Twilight rubbed her shoulder, not sure how Rarity would take her being there. Applejack saw this and gave her friend a hug, “We’d love your company, Twi.” She whispered.

Twilight sighed, “Okay, thanks Applejack.”

“No problem, sugarcube.”

Applejack helped bring Twilight over to the truck, when Rarity saw them. “What is SHE doing here?” She asked, tapping her foot.

“She’s here to help, Rares,” Applejack answered.

“And I came here to apologise for what happened,” Twilight added.

“Twilight,” Rarity folded her arms, “Sometimes an apology isn’t enough.”

“I know, I also got a warning from Celestia that I was about blow this out of proportion. Needless to say, the warning came too late.”

“I’ll say, you destroyed my wall over it, not to mention spoiled my brunch with Spike.”

“That’s the other thing I need to mention. Remember when I mentioned that Spike was a little moody?”

“Yes...Even though he wasn’t being moody at all around me…”

“It turns out that he’s going through puberty. That’s why Celestia sent me the letter. I have it right here if you don’t believe me.”

“I believe you. But that doesn’t mean I’m going to forgive you just yet.”

“Rares,” Applejack said, “You know the saying ‘forgive and forget,’ right?”

“It’s hard to forget something like a huge hole in the wall, your little sister being scared to death, and interrupting a very tender moment between me and Spikey Wikey.”

“Well, that’s Twilight for ya. You know how she is when she thinks something’s a huge deal when it has an obvious answer she’s missing.”

“Thank you,” Twilight said before… “HEY!”

“Sorry.”

“But, she could have waited ‘till Spike had gotten home, that way I finish proving how much in love with him I am.”

Everyone but Twilight giggled to themselves after hearing that response. Rarity’s cheeks burned, partly in embarrassment, partly in pure fury. “TWILIGHT!!!!!”

“What?”

“You just made me tell everyone I am dating Spike!”

“How did I ‘make you’ say something?”

“YOU KNOW HOW!!” Rarity lunged at Twilight, pushing her to the ground.

Twilight lay there, tears forming in her eyes. She glared at Rarity, before running in the direction of her library crying.

“Now why did you go and do that,” Applejack asked clearly outraged.

“She made me tell everyone!”

“That was your own fault.”

“No! If she hadn’t come, no one would have known!”

Fluttershy spoke up, “Um, but already I knew Rar-”

“SHUT UP!”

Fluttershy jumped, and her lip trembled, tears began to form in her eyes. “I-I have to go…” She said before running off.

“Now look at what you’ve done!” Applejack yelled.

“Applejack-” Pinkie, tired of seeing her friends fight, tried to interject, but.

“What I’ve done?! What about Twilight?!” Rarity interrupted.

“Yeah!” Rainbow added, “She put a dang hole in Rarity’s house! And then she just waltzes back here expecting Rarity to forgive her?”

“Rainbow, I think Twi-” Pinkie tried again, but-

“Yes! Cuz we’re her friends and that’s what friends do!”

“AJ-”

“Maybe in Disneyland, but this is the real world! You don’t go doing stuff like that!”

“Rain-”

“Oh? Then maybe you should give up on your dream of bein’ a Wonderbolt.”

“Ap-”

Rainbow fumed, she glared at Applejack. “You. Take. That. Back!”

“No.”

“Then-”

“ENOUGH!” Pinkie Pie yelled. The other girls looked at her. “I want ALL of you to GO BACK HOME AND THINK ABOUT WHAT YOU’RE DOING! You made Twilight and Fluttershy cry, and NO ONE does that to them! NO ONE! So everyone just go home and stay there!”

The others gave each other one final glare, and left their separate ways. Pinkie sighed, kicked at the dirt, and slowly, cried her way back to Sugarcube Corner.

Chapter 8

A yellow unicorn stallion walked up to the library, if he was going to study the incoming asteroid storm, he’d need a few books on the subject. The stallion in question wore a white button up shirt, khaki pants, and brown shoes, his eyes were blue, like his hair, and in his hand was a list of books he needed for stargazing.

He knocked on the door. No answer. He knocked again. Still nothing. ‘That’s odd,’ he thought, ‘the library’s never closed at this hour.’

Finally, the door was answered by Spike. “Hi,”

“Hello...is the library closed or something?”

“Um...I guess not. What did you need Mr…?”

“My name’s Comet Tail,” The yellow stallion grinned.

“Ok Mr...Comet.”

“Yeah...So what did you need?”

“Oh, some books on...well...pretty much every non-fiction book on space, I guess.”

“Okay… That’s kinda a lot…”

“Oh, heh, well, maybe I’ll only take a few. Um, if I could come in, that might be easier for you.”

“Um...Okay, I guess it couldn’t hurt.” Spike opened the door wider, allowing Comet to enter.

“So, where do you keep the space books?”

“I really don’t know, Twilight’s the one who organizes this place.”

“Twilight?”

“You know, Twilight Sparkle, Celestia’s student, carries the Element of Magic...” Suddenly, Twilight walks down the stairs to grab a book, but stops when she sees Comet. “Her,” Spike pointed out.

Twilight looked to see who Spike was talk- ‘Oh Celestia!’ Twilight stopped dead in her tracks and stared at Comet. She began to feel her face grow hot, and her stomach felt light. She completely ignored the fact that she was wearing her pink tank top and white pajama pants.

Comet was also feeling odd upon seeing Twilight. His chest tightened up and it felt hard to breath, he was completely lost in her beauty, ‘Oh...wow.’

They stood there, looking at each other for several minutes while Spike tried to get Twilight to snap out of her trance. “Hey Twilight, I forgot to mention I set all your Starswirl the Bearded books on fire.”

“That’s good Spike,” she replied, in a dreamy voice before… “Wait, WHAT?!”

“Yeah, and while I was at it I- Oh...You’re fine, now.”

Twilight turned to Spike, “You had better be kidding.”

“Yes, I was kidding. Sheesh.” Spike rolled his eyes and went upstairs to his room.

Twilight chuckled sheepishly, "Heh, that was...um..."

"Spike?"

"Uh...yeah!"

“Okay… Um… Do you mind helping me find a few books?”

“S-sure,” Twilight cleared her throat, “What do you need?”

“Um...just some books on astronomy and stars and...stuff…”

“Ok. I think we have some books on that…” Twilight walked over to one of the shelves and started scanning the shelves for books on stars and things. She eventually found the one she was looking for and brought it to Comet. “Um, I found this…” She handed him the book, “It’s a little old though, and some of the information isn’t accurate. I-Um...have something upstairs it’s kind of a revision, but I don’t know if it’s as good.”

“Oh, well I’d like to see it, anyway, if that’s alright…” Comet cleared his throat.

“Uh...sure...I’ll be right back…” Twilight went upstairs, but kept her eyes locked on Comet, nearly running into a wall! Twilight blushed, and looked ahead of her instead of Comet. She walked into her room (not noticing the dozens of dirty tissues scattered around). She grabbed a notebook off the edge of the bed and took it with her.

She found Comet, still in the exact same position, and stared at him from the stairs ‘I wonder what he needs this for? Duh! He wants it for the big meteor shower tonight. I wonder if…”

“Are you okay?” Comet asked.

This brought Twilight out of her trance and back to reality, “Oh, yes I am. Sorry.” She walked down the stairs and handed the notebook to Comet, “Sorry if the handwriting’s bad,”

Comet opened the book and took a look at the contents. “Wow, there’s a lot in here.” He exclaimed.”

“I know, there were quite a lot of findings. I learned even more after talking with Princess Luna.”

Comet’s eyes widened and he looked at Twilight, “You talked with Princess Luna?!”

“Yeah, that was during her first Nightmare Night.”

“...Wow, I didn’t know our librarian was such a celebrity.”

“Well...I’m hardly a celebrity. But I’m fine with it, I lived in Canterlot for a lot of my life and the celebrities I knew had kind of a busy life, though one of them was my babysitter.”

“Really?”

“Princess Mi Amore Cadenza, or rather Princess Cadence. She married my brother Shining Armor last year,"

"Wow, I'm impressed,"

"Thanks..." Twilight blushed.

Comet smiled and looked through the notebook some more. “I think these might help.”

"Good...I'm guessing you're going to see the meteor shower tonight?"

"Yes, I am, will you?"

"Um...I was...but...the people I was going to go with...well, it's not going to work out..."

"Oh...would you, if you'd like, maybe like to go with me?"

“Wait, you actually want to go with me?”

"Um, if you'd like to, you seem pretty knowledgeable on the subject."

“Oh. Okay. Then I would like to go with you."

Comet grinned, "Great! Um, I guess I'll pick you up at 6:45? So we can get there early?"

"Sure! But...um...I feel dumb for asking this..."

"What?"

"Um...what's your name?"

"Oh, it's Comet Tail. And your name is Twilight, correct?"

Twilight nodded, "Uh-huh, Twilight Sparkle."

“Okay then, see ya then.”

"Yeah, see ya."

After Comet had left, Twilight bolted upstairs. “Spike, I’m going to go to see the meteor shower with Comet Tail tonight. What should I do?”

“Well, the first thing I’d do is get out of those pajamas,” Spike chuckled.

“Pajamas?” Twilight looked down and finally noticed the pink tank top, white pajama pants, and lack of shoes. “Oh.”

Twilight teleported to her room, and teleported back with her yellow dress on, still lacking any footwear. "How's this?"

Spike looked at her, "You look nice, but why not just wear what you usually wear?"

"I can't do that Spike, I want to look as nice as possible, I...I sort of...it sounds stupid but-"

"You have a crush on him."

"What? No I- maybe I do...I don’t know…”

"You do, I could see it a mile away."

“How do you know I’m not?”

"You do, you couldn’t take your eyes off of him. I had to say, ‘Hey, I burn your Star Swirl the Bearded books,’ just so I could get you to snap out of it. Even then, you almost ran into a wall!”

"Oh...I guess I do. I hope he doesn't think that's weird."

“Hey, you said it was obvious when I was crushing on Rarity.”

"Still..."

"And if it helps, he seemed to have a crush on you."

"Really?"

"You didn't notice?"

"I guess not.”

"Well, he did. But I can't blame him, you're a pretty girl, Twilight."

Twilight blushed furiously, "Spike, that's sweet of you, but I know I'm not."

“Are we seriously going to have a fight over that?”

"I don't want to argue, but I know I'm not as pretty as the other girls."

“Hey, you already have two peoples’ opinions. What more do you need?”

"Well, I guess you have a point...thanks Spike."

"You're welcome," Spike grinned.

Twilight sighed happily, "I think I'll look for something else, this dress won't work for stargazing."

“What about what you normally wear?”

Twilight looked at him.

“What? You two would probably be sitting on the ground. Wouldn’t want to ruin a pretty dress, would you?”

“Well, I guess you have a point.”

"Yeah...but don't ask me what to wear, I don't know what girls like."

“Then why did you tell me to wear what I normally wear.”

"Cuz you like to? I dunno."

"Well, it is, but I-"

"Wanna look pretty?"

"Yes! Can you help?"

"Wear what youre comfortable in, because; 1. You shouldn't make yourself uncomfortable to make a guy happy, and 2. If you are, you're dating the wrong guy."

"Aw...thanks Spike..."

"Yeah, sure." Spike grinned.

"Well, I'm guessing you're going with Rarity tonight?"

“After what happened today AND yesterday, no way!”

"Spike, that's sweet but she's mad at me, you don't have to worry about it."

“What she did hurt you big time. There was no exc- Well, you did go over the edge, but still, she could have handled it another way. And when she pushed you for trying to help rebuild her wall and apologise to her, that was it.”

"Okay, Spike. Are you going to stay here?"

"I guess," Spike replied a little depressed.

There was a knock at the door. Twilight walked over and answered it to reveal Applejack and Applebloom, who was wearing a red long sleeved shirt, jeans, and tennis shoes. “Hey Applejack, Applebloom. What brings you here?”

“We came here to check up on y’all,” Applejack answered, “You were pretty upset when Rarity pushed ya on the ground.”

“Yeah, I was…”

“Well, it’s better that ya did, believe it or not. We’re...We’re all pretty upset, Sugarcube.”

“What happened?”

Applejack sighed, then she turned to Applebloom, “‘Bloom, can you and Spike go in the other room?”

“Sure, AJ.” The two walked up the stairs and into Spike’s room.

Applejack rubbed her forehead, “Ah need to sit down,”

“Okay, Applejack,” Twilight led her friend to the couch.

Both girls sat down as Applejack put her head in her hands. “Ah still can’t believe it happened.”

“What happened, Applejack?”

“Rarity started taking her anger out on all of us. She yelled at Fluttershy and me. We only stopped cuz Pinkie told us ta go home.”

Twilight sighed, she was shocked her friend did this. “What happened to the others?”

“Well, Fluttershy ran away upset and Rainbow Dash took Rarity’s side.” Then Applejack mumbled, “Crazy city pony.”

Twilight cleared her throat.

“Oh...Sorry.”

******

Spike opened the door to his room and flipped the light on, with Applebloom followed the dragon in. She had never been in Spike’s room, it looked...well, it looked like a kid’s room.

“Sorry about the mess,” Spike apologized.

“Oh, it’s fine. My room’s always a mess,” Applebloom admitted.

“Oh,” Spike closed the door behind Applebloom, “So…” Spike scratched the back of his head, he didn’t really know what to talk about with Applebloom. They had never really talked much. Then it hit him, she was a Cutie Mark crusader, maybe she got her Cutie Mark! “Have you gotten your Cutie Mark yet?”

Applebloom gave Spike a strange look, “Why…?”

“Just wondering…”

“Well...No, I haven’t.”

“Oh, sorry.”

“It’s ok…”

“Besides, who all would see it?”

“Well, if I happen to be wearing one of them swimsuits, I might be able ta show it off.”

“Ah.”

“Yeah…”

“I’d say that I can’t wait to see it, but that would be weird.”

Applebloom giggled, “Yeah, it would be, maybe I’ll make a carving.”

“Carving?”

“Yeah, I’m really good at wood carvings.”

“Hey, maybe that’s your talent.”

“Maybe...but I’d like it to be something cool like surfing or something.”

“Well… Just a thought.”

“Yeah,” Applebloom glanced over to Spike’s chest of drawers, and gasped. “You like ARMO sets?!”

“Um… Yes?” Spike was surprised by the reaction, but he had a feeling of what it was about to lead up to.

“Me too!”

“Oh, cool! Are there any lines you specifically like collecting?”

“Not really, I just like gettin’ sets that look cool.”

“Like the Temple of the Crystal Idol from Daring Do?”

“Eh...For that money, I’d rather get a Star Decimator.”

“Oh, that one’s ok, lotta parts, though.”

Applebloom’s jaw dropped, “You have one?!”

“Yup, haven’t finished it, though.”

“Oh, um, do you think, maybe, uh, I could help?”

“Uh...sure, if you want…”

“Yay!” Applebloom hugged the older boy, nearly choking him.

“Uh, yeah. If you can get off me I’ll go and get it.”

“Oh, sorry,” Applebloom retracted and giggled.

He walked up to the shelf and grabbed the unfinished set. “Looks good so far, right?”

“Yeah! But it definitely needs work, and I’m the girl for the job!”

Spike chuckled, “Well, we’ll see.”

Chapter 9

Rainbow landed on the path leading to Fluttershy’s cottage. She unzipped her jacket and felt the cool air rush over her body. She hovered towards Fluttershy’s door and knocked. “Flutters? You there?”

The door creaked open and Angel popped out, glaring at Rainbow.

“What? Look, I need to talk to Fluttershy, is she home?”

The bunny glared at her, and slammed the door in her face.

“Hey! What’s the big deal?!” Rainbow rested her hands on her hips and kicked at the dirt, “Great, just great.”

“Rainbow Dash,” Fluttershy hovered to Rainbow from behind the cottage, “Why are you here?”

“Well, you seemed kinda upset earlier, so I thought I’d check on ya.” Rainbow confessed.

“Oh, thank you for checking up on me, but you really didn’t have to.” Fluttershy said, “I’m fine.”

“Flutters, I’m your friend, and the Element of Loyalty, it’s my thing.”

“Well, thank you again, but I’m fine, and I...need to do something…”

“What is it? I can do it for ya in ten seconds flat!”

“Um...no thank you Rainbow, it’s something I need to do myself.”

“Okay,” Rainbow took a couple steps closer, “What?”

“I- It’s personal…”

“Okay…guess I’ll see ya. I need to check up on something anyway, the apples farmhand’s been  acting kinda funny.”

Fluttershy’s ears caught that last part, “Caramel?”

“Yeah, he’s been leaving the farm a lot lately.”

“Oh… That is unusual…”

"Yeah, and he keeps seein Lyra Heartstrings, last time I saw them, they were talking at Sugarcube Corner, loudly."

This encouraged Fluttershy, “Huh… I think we might want to see what’s going on.”

"Whoah, 'We'?"

“Well, I was going to ask him out, but now I’m not so sure…”

Rainbows jaw dropped, "Whoah Whoah Whoah! You wanted to ask a guy out?"

“Yes… Why?”

"I dunno, just surprised you actually have the hots for a guy's all."

“Okay…”

"Well, you ready to go?"

“Yeah… I can go right now if you want.”

“Cool, let’s go,” Rainbow grabbed Fluttershy’s hand and bolted to the sky, with Fluttershy making a small squeak.

“Um, could you slow down a bit?” Fluttershy pleaded.

“Do you wanna ask Caramel out on a date?” Rainbow questioned.

“Um, I don’t know anymore.”

*****

Rainbow landed softly with Fluttershy (using her own wings) in the back of Sugarcube Corner, “Okay, let’s see what they’re doing…” Rainbow whispered.

“Um, are you sure we should be doing this? I mean what if-”

“Look, Caramel’s been acting funny lately, and Lyra’s been acting funny, what more do you want?”

“Well… What if it’s not what we think?”

“Well, then you can wait ‘till they’re done and ask Caramel on your little date.”

“Oh. Um… I was just going to talk to him.”

“Sure…” Rainbow rolled her eyes and bolted to the front. She ran up to the door, and bolted inside, with Fluttershy following at a much calmer pace.

“Oh, hello girls,” Mrs. Cake greeted with a smile on her face.

“Hi Mrs. Cake, can Flutters and I have a six pack of glazed donuts?”

“Oh, sure, hun. Why don’t you take a seat and I’ll get it for you. For here or to go?”

“Here, please,” Rainbow grinned, she went ahead and lay the necessary bits on the counter. She turned to Fluttershy and cocked her head to a seat near Lyra and Caramel.

Fluttershy nodded and both girls headed toward the vacant seat near the two ponies and took their seat.

Lyra’s voice was a little faint due to her whispering, but it was still audible when she says, “What are we going to tell them?”

“I don’t know, it’s not every day you find out a national hero is a fake.” Caramel replied.

Rainbow raised an eyebrow.

“Exactly! Not to mention our races’...incident.”

“I’m sure Khai will think of something, we have to find the fake before more damage is done.”

“Only problem is that it could be anyone.”

“I think we can rule out the pink one, no one would act like...that.”

“I suppose…” Lyra commented, “But we still have some obvious choices: Rarity for Spike’s crush and Fluttershy for her crush on you.”

Fluttershy let out a quiet “Eep!”

“Trust me she’s not the only one, I think Applejack’s crushing on me too, though she’s being pretty subtle about it.”

“I can’t blame her, there aren’t a lot of men around here and, well, you do have a rather nice chest…”

Caramel gave Lyra a funny look, “Did I get you, too?”

“No way! You know I already have someone else.”

Caramel chuckled, “I know, but you were pointing it out.”

“Because it was obvious. Give me a break already!”

“Fine. But don’t get mad if I make comments on your-”

“Watch it, ‘Mel’.” Lyra sneered.

“Very well.” Caramel took a sip of his coffee, “We still have to consider the others, now.”

“True, Twilight does have some affection for Spike, but it’s more of the motherly kind. Then again, she recently got a boyfriend. Sounds suspicious, right?”

Rainbow’s mouth flew open as she turned to Fluttershy, whose eyes were as wide as-

“Here are your donuts!”

“Agh!” Rainbow and Fluttershy yelped.

“I’m sorry, didn’t mean to scare you,” Mrs. Cake apologized.

“Don’t worry about it. Thanks.” Rainbow gave a smile as the blue earth pony walked back to the counter. Rainbow flipped up the donut box and took one of the donuts, continuing to keep an ear out.

“I suppose, but I think they have too much in common for it to have been forced.”

“That’s what makes it the best cover.”

“One thing I’ve learned is you can’t make love happen, it happens on its own.”

“Alright. Alright, but I’m still marking her as a suspect.”

“Fine. What about Rainbow Dash?”

This perked Rainbow’s interest.

“I don’t know. She does have a love for the Wonderbolts, but not really the kind of love a changeling would go after…”

‘Changeling?!’ Rainbow stole a glance at Fluttershy, who was once again, equally shocked.

“I’ve never seen her react around men in any form of flirtation or romance or any sort of love.”

“Maybe either (a) she isn’t interested in a relationship, or (b) she’s secretly a-”

“DON’T say it. You know how much I can’t stand the thought.”

“It was just a theory.”

"A...disturbing theory."

‘Ya think,' both Rainbow and Fluttershy thought.

"Well, we have to consider every theory, no matter how disturbing."

"Perhaps...Thank goodness Changeypt has none of those issues."

‘Changeypt?’ Rainbow pondered.

"I can't wait to return to my aner, I want him to hold me and never let me go." Lyra said in a dreamy tone.

"He is a lucky man, to have someone like you.”

“Hey maybe you’ll find your girl soon.”

“I keep thinking I have but… Ugh, is it wrong to fall in love with your assignment?”

“Right now, you can’t afford to be emotionally attached to her. For all we know, she could be the spy.”

"I know, that is my greatest fear, especially after what happened last time."

“She died protecting you. I think that’s the greatest sign of love anyone can give.”

"It is, which is why somedays I feel like I am betraying her, particularly around Applejack and Fluttershy, and it doesn't help they both remind me of her." A tear rolled down Caramel’s cheek, "Sometimes I wish it had been me instead of her, she was too good to die."

Out of nowhere, Lyra hugged Caramel. A wave of shock came over Caramel, but he hugged back. This embrace made Fluttershy uneasy (despite hearing Lyra already had someone) and made Rainbow want to gag.

Once Lyra had finished she returned to her seat and asked, “Feel better?”

“A little,” Caramel half-grinned.

“Good,” Lyra smiled at Caramel before looking back down at her notebook, “I think we need to watch them all carefully tonight during the meteor shower.”

“Agreed.”

Lyra cleared her throat, “So, would you be my date to the event this evening?”

Caramel looked puzzled, “I thought you were going with Sweetie Drops…”

“No, we’re just friends, plus you know she’s also a girl. It’s unthinkable.”

“Sorry, it was just that the rumors were getting around that-”

“Well, I might have if ponies around here weren’t so quick to spread rumors, but we’d go as friends.”

“Okay. By the way, how has she taken the… you know…”

“Well, she freaked out at first, but when I showed her that I wasn’t too different from her, she calmed down, and has accepted it.” Lyra gave Caramel a playful look, “She also said she wanted to meet you…”

“Oh she did, did she?”

“Yes she did, she also noted how cute you were without a shirt.”

“Seriously? Is the chest the only thing girls notice?”

“I could say the same about the boys.”

“Fair enough,” Caramel chuckled.

Rainbow looked to Fluttershy and cocked her head to the window, and mouthing “Go”. Fluttershy nodded and both girls headed out of Sugarcube Corner. “So one of us has been replaced with a spy,” Rainbow said, “That means anyone of us could be working for Chrysalis.”

“Oh...Oh my! Who could it be? I mean, I already know you’re real, or at least I think so.” She put two of her fingers on her forehead. “I’m so confused.”

“Well, confusing as it is, I think you’re the only pony I can trust, if I tell any of the others about this, they may just flat-out deny it.”

“You’re right, but how will we know who’s the spy?”

Rainbow was about to answer, but she immediately stopped herself. She thought about it for a bit and replied, “I think we might want to do some research on that.”

“But...what do we do if Twilight asks what we’re doing?”

“Come on, is either of us reading a book unusual?”

“Well, you only read books from the Daring Do series…”

“Okay...Um...maybe we’re doing research for my fanfiction?”

“That’ll work.”

“Good, let’s go by my house and get my notebook and then we can go to the library.”

“Um...do we really need your fanfiction?”

“Hey, if I’m gonna be doing all this research, I might as well actually do it.”

*****

“Here are all the books I have on Changelings,” Twilight put two books in front of Rainbow and Fluttershy.

“That’s all,” Rainbow asked.

“I’m sorry, but Changelings haven’t been documented that well; they’re not like pegasi and unicorns.”

"Okay, thanks, Twi." Rainbow thanked her friend.

"Sure." Twilight replied, then, "I'm going to be at Applejack's for a little while, if you could let Spike and Applebloom know when they come down, that'd be great."

"Sure thing, Twi," Rainbow grinned.

With that, Twilight walked out the door. Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy opened their books. They searched for nearly an hour, but couldn't find anything. Finally…

“Um… Rainbow Dash, it says here that changeling blood is green…” Fluttershy pointed out.

"Really? Well if that's the case, all we have to do is gather everyone up and stab 'em."

Fluttershy gave Rainbow a look. “I don’t think they’d like that.”

"Well, maybe we can just get a needle or something. It's better than knowing one of us is a fake."

"I suppose. But when should we do it?"

"That's the problem, especially since we're all kinda fighting."

“I guess we could do it before or after the meteor shower.”

"I'd rather do it before, ASAP, but I think everyone might be in a better mood afterward."

"I guess, but we might get tired."

"Ugh," Rainbow put her head in her hands, "Why’d Caramel have to act so weird?"

Fluttershy merely shrugged.

"Well, let's go, we should probably get ready."

“But what about Spike and Applebloom?”

"Leave a note?"

“I don’t know… Why don’t we just tell them, or at least bring them with us?”

Rainbow gave Fluttershy a look, “Um...I’d rather not bring a teenage dragon with me to see me get ready. I’ll just tell ‘em.” Rainbow ran up the stairs to let Spike and Applebloom know they’d be alone. This left Fluttershy alone with her thoughts.

‘Caramel has a crush on me, too? But, he said he also likes Applejack, and he can only choose one of us. But maybe he’d like Applejack more...’ Fluttershy didn’t want to think about that, Caramel was the first (decent) pony to show interest in her. Not to mention Applejack didn’t seem to care about relationships right now, so maybe she DID have a chance.

“Ok, let’s go.” Rainbow’s voice brought Fluttershy back to reality.

"Oh, um, okay." Fluttershy grabbed her coat while Rainbow grabbed her jacket and notebook. “So to your place?”

"Sure," Rainbow opened the door and held it for Fluttershy, and both girls made their way to Rainbow's cloud home.

*****

Rainbow opened the door and stepped inside with Fluttershy, "It's starting to get dark," Rainbow noted while flipping on the-

"EEP!" Fluttershy screamed.

Rainbow whirled around to see Caramel and Lyra standing right there! "Whoah! What are you doing here? And...how are you here?!"

"We'll explain, but first we need you to do something for us." Caramel replied.

"Seriously?! You break into my home and offer me a job? What's your problem, 'Mel?"

"It'll be your problem too if you don't help us, and you don't want problems do you?"

"Is that a threat?" Rainbow clenched her teeth and pulled her fingers into a fist.

"Merely a factor to consider."

"For what?"

"Come into the kitchen, and we'll explain everything."

Chapter 10

"Come into the kitchen, and we'll explain everything."

“Or poison us.” Rainbow muttered.

"It's YOUR kitchen," Lyra pointed out.

“But how do we know you’re not carrying anything on you that I don’t have around? And where’s Tank?”

“Who?”

“The turtle.”

“Oh, he had to ‘take care of some business’ so to speak. He’ll be back.”

Rainbow gave Lyra a glare. "He'd better be."

"Ladies, we have more pressing matters to attend to," Caramel

As if on cue, Tank flew back in. “See, he’s fine,” Lyra said, “but you’re right Caramel, let’s cut to the chase. We believe that one of you is a spy for Chrysalis.”

“Um… we kinda already knew that,” Fluttershy said.

“We kinda figured that after Mrs. Cake gave away your position.”

"I knew the donuts were overkill for our cover," Rainbow muttered.

"Regardless, we need you to spy on the four other girls tonight, let us know if you see anything unusual." Caramel told them.

“Well if that’s all you want, we’re already planning on it. We were actually going to cut them at some point,” Rainbow said.

Caramel and Lyra stare at the two. “Cut them,” they asked in unison.

“Yeah, changelings bleed green blood. If the blood’s not red, then they’re not real.

“You really don’t need to go that far,” Lyra said, “Just watch them and report any strange activity to us.”

“Alright…”

“Another indicator, by the way, is uri-”

“Ew! No! You want us to dive into a toilet for that?!”

"Well, would you rather mutilate them?" Lyra pointed out.

“Good point, but still…”

"You're both smart girls, you'll figure something out."

“Right…”

"Well, do you have any other questions?"

“I do, how the heck are you standing here?”

“I think they’re changelings” Fluttershy whispered.

“See? You are smart,” Caramel grinned.

“What?!” Rainbow put up her fists, “You think you can pull one over on us?!”

“We aren’t like Chrysalis’ Changelings, we were sent here by our king to round them all up and  bring them to Changeling justice,” Caramel sighed, “Look, you need to keep this to yourself, no one can know about this. NO ONE. You can’t tell your friends, the police, even the Princesses, if you do, our entire operation is compromised.”

Fluttershy asked, “But Bon Bon knows already, right?”

“Yes, but it was a more complicated situation,” Lyra said.

“How?” Rainbow folded her arms.

“She saw me in my original form,” Lyra admitted.

“...Oh...Do you look like the other Changeings? I mean, if you don’t mind my asking.” Fluttershy asked.

“We will reveal our forms to you when the mission is complete, and...we hope to- nevermind. Just complete the mission.”

“Fine, but no funny business,” Rainbow glared.

“Deal,” Caramel shook Rainbow’s hand, “We’ll be at the meteor shower monitoring your progress,” Caramel gave the girls a couple of ear pieces. “These will relay everything you hear.”

Both girls put the ear pieces in their ears. “These better not blow up.” Rainbow glared.

“No, they won’t. Unless you fail,” Lyra gave them a wink.

Rainbow glared at the unicorn, “It doesn’t matter, we won’t fail.”

“Um...what do we do when we find the Changeling?” Fluttershy asked.

“Use a code, something like ‘I wonder what’s for supper,’ and we’ll be there ASAP.” Caramel explained.

“Um...Okay…” Fluttershy gulped.

“Just relax and you’ll be fine.”

“Cool,”

“...And one more thing, I’m...afraid you’ll both need to take urine tests…”

“And here we go,” Rainbow Dash said, “That would have been good BEFORE telling us all this!”

“It’s just to confirm our guts. And my gut’s never wrong.” Caramel grinned, “I’ll be in the other room.”

*****

“They’re definitely pegasi,” Lyra said, sitting on the couch.

“Told ya!” Rainbow exclaimed.

“Well, that’s good to know. But, like I said, my gut.” Caramel sneered.

“Whatever,” Rainbow mumbled.

“So, will you do it?” Lyra asked.

“Well, I’ve already peed in a cup, so I better.” Rainbow explained.

“Okay then, oh and I apologize if it looked a little intrusive,” Caramel said.

“A little?”

“Well, in any matter, we will leave you to get ready. We need to ourselves.”

“O- Okay. Be safe.”

Caramel smiled before he took Fluttershy’s hand and gave it a small kiss. “You too.”

Fluttershy’s cheeks began to turn a bright shade of red, as she pulled her hands together and brought them over her mouth. “Thank you,” She squeaked.

Caramel smiled and looked to Rainbow, “I assume you don’t want the-”

“Nope! I’ll see ya tonight after we nabbed the changeling.”

Caramel nodded, and both he and Lyra left, waving good-bye.

“I’d save the affection for after the mission.”

“I thought it’d give her a confidence boost,” Caramel grinned.

“But it might distract her,” Lyra shot back.

“Didn’t Khai give you a confidence boost for this mission?” Caramel responded.

“He...may have,” Then, Lyra whispered, “But if he had, it wasn’t exactly ‘safe for work’.”

“Ah… Think you’re gonna…”

“Probably…”

"Khai's a lucky man." Caramel chuckled.

“That he is.” Lyra giggled, "But I'm also a very lucky girl."

“That you are.” Caramel grinned.

******

“So what are you wearing to the shower? A cute dress? Skirt and T-shirt? Or-” A sudden chuckle from Lyra interrupted Bon Bon, “What?”

“Nothing…” Lyra stifled a laugh back, “Just you being you.”

Bon Bon placed her hands on her hips, “What does that mean?

Lyra smiled, “You’re just being...you...and I love that.”

Bon Bon groaned, “And that is…?”

“Your energetic nature.”

“Oh… I see...Well, I like how calm you stay in these things.” Bon Bon confessed.

“Well, thank you,”

“So...you’re going with Caramel tonight?” Bon Bon asked.

“No, he’s going with another girl...though he hasn’t decided. I wish I could’ve gone with you, but everyone would... you know…”

“Yeah… Carrot Top’s such a gossiper.” Bon Bon slumped on the couch, “Anywho, I hope you’ll capture that Changeling tonight, especially if she’s disguised as one of the six, that CAN’T be good,” Bon Bon eyes widened, “What if she’s been a changeling this whole time?!”

“I doubt that, the Siyah Changelings only noticed the Elements AFTER the wedding,” Lyra joked, “Unfortunately, she knows now.”

“But I thought you arrested her when she was beaten by the Prince and Princess?”

“Still, that doesn’t mean she couldn’t have an agent still here- and doing her bidding.”

"I guess that's true, but still..."

“Well, hopefully our operation tonight with Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy will work and we’ll catch her, maybe even interrogate her.”

Bon Bon gave Lyra an odd look, “Um...how do you know they’re not the Changeling spy?”

“They took a urine test, Rainbow Dash was NOT happy.”

“...Changelings-”

“Yes, we do have a slightly different color of urine...but can we change the subject, please?” Lyra begged.

“Oh, sure. So...can I meet Caramel sometime?”

“Maybe, but he'd appreciate it if you don't mention his chest."

Bon Bon made a silly frown, “But...it’s so...broad...and…”

“Bon Bon, please! I’m a married woman!” Lyra huffed.

“Oh, heh, sorry,” Bon Bon leaned forward, “So could you tell me about your husband? You’ve mentioned you’re married but I haven’t heard anything about him. Is he cute?”

Lyra raised an eyebrow, “...Why?”

“Just curious."

"Well, he is very...attractive, particularly when he wears his ceremonial armor...it shows off his chest quite-" Lyra paused, 'He's right, we DO focus our attention on their-"

"...shows his chest quite- what?"

“Quite well…”

“Why did you stop?”

“Well… I think Caramel’s right, I think we DO focus a lot on their chests.”

"Well, we can't help it if they're so hot, they're practically advertising!"

“Not helping.”

“Sorry.”

“But yeah, he is very protective yet very sweet. Just don’t get on his bad side.”

“I’ll try not too,” Bon Bon giggled.

“Oh! And don’t call him ‘king’, he hates being called that.”

“Why?”

“He thinks ‘King Khai’ sounds stupid, and he doesn’t think he needs have two titles for one that was crowned.”

“Wait...two titles?”

“Yeah. Oh, did I forget to mention Khai’s a king?” Lyra smiled nervously.

“WHAT?! You’re married to a king?!”

“Yep, his name actually means ‘crowned’.”

“Does that make you a…”

“Queen? Pretty much, but he still trusts me with tasks such as these.”

“I’m talking with a Queen?! A Queen’s been living with me for the past year?!”

“Well, not only that, but you’re a friend with a queen.” Lyra smiled.

“Why didn’t you tell me that earlier?”

“Hey, it’s one secret after another; I need to let you breath. Besides, you initially didn’t take the changeling secret too well…”

“Hm… Good point…”

“Yeah, and...I didn’t want to ruin our friendship, I’m really just a normal girl, like you! Except...I’m a Queen…”

“Well, it’ll take a bit of time getting used to my roommate being a changeling Queen, especially after that thing in Canter-”

“To be fair, Chrysalis wasn’t a real queen; she just gave herself that title while trying to take over.”

“Oh, that I didn’t know about. Any other fun facts?”

Lyra chuckled, “Well...Changelings, ones that AREN’T in the Siyah, aren’t black or full of holes, and their wings are actually very pretty. In fact the female changelings have wings that look like butterflies.”

“Oh wow. But why didn’t I see yours?”

“Well, I did change back pretty quickly, if I do say so myself. I’ll show them to you when we’re done.”

“Okay. Speaking of which, shouldn’t you be getting ready?”

“I guess, are you going?”

“No thanks, I’m gonna pass. I don’t wanna see a big fight.”

“There won’t be a fight, not tonight.”

“How do you know?”

“Have you seen Caramel’s muscles?”

Both girls laughed at Lyra’s joke, and went into her room, to figure out the unicorn’s wardrobe for that evening...

Chapter 11

Caramel examined the contents of the wall in front of him, on it were his necessary tools for Changeling hunting:

A shotgun,

sniper,

handcuffs,

...a bazooka (in his defence, they needed something to bring Chrysalis down.),

and the keys to his car: an Aston Martin Vantage, which resided behind him, in the Apples barn, tarped.

He sighed, preparing himself for the coming evening. He might need everything, the lack of love this spy had, might drive her to...irrational measures…

Suddenly, he heard a noise. Big Macintosh and Granny Smith may have agreed to him staying at their house, but he still didn’t want anyone to find out about his...job. He flung a tarp over the weapons, standing nonchalantly by the tarped car.

One of the barn doors opened and both Applejack and Twilight came through, Applejack had her hand on Twilight’s forehead. “Take it easy, Sugarcube, let me get an ice pack for ya.” She saw Caramel, “‘Mel? Can you get an ice pack for Twilight?”

“Sure,” Caramel ran into the kitchen, he yanked open the door to the freezer and grabbed an ice pack. Next, he ran back to the barn and handed it to Applejack, who was hovering over Twilight, now sitting on the couch “Here you go.”

“Thanks, ‘Mel.” Applejack quickly put the ice pack on Twilight.

“You’re welcome. So, what happened to Twilight?”

“She was helpin’ me gather apples, and a branch hit her on the head.”

“Oh. Well, it could have been worse.”

“I guess...But it was my fault…”

“Applejack,” Twilight tried to sit up.

“Don’t get up, Twilight, ya need to stay still.”

Caramel saw Twilight’s wound for a split second:

Red Blood.

“Thank goodness….” Caramel uttered.

“Did ya say somethin, Mel,” Applejack asked.

“Yeah, thank goodness she’s still okay.”

“It’s no big deal!” Twilight tried to make her point, this time by getting up, but Applejack gently, but firmly, put her back down.

“Twilight, please, I’m being your friend and trying to keep you safe!”

“But Apple-”

“Girls, please!”

Both girls looked at Caramel.

“You’re both friends, and you need to act like it, unless you want what happened with Rarity to happen to you.”

Applejack sighed, “I’m sorry, Twi.”

Twilight lay back down, “It’s okay, and, I am feeling a little dizzy.”

Caramel breathed deeply, “Good, well, not the dizzy part, but the… yeah… I think you know what I mean.”

Applejack gave him a playful punch in the arm. “Thanks, ‘Mel.”

Caramel brushed the spot on his arm where she had punched, “Hey, Applejack, can I talk with you? In private?”

“Uh...I guess...Why?”

“It’s...important…”

Applejack shrugged and followed Caramel outside.

After Applejack followed him for a few moments, Caramel finally stopped, and turned to her. “Applejack...could you do something for me?”

“Sure, what is it?”

"Um...well… I… need you to… take a leak…”

“Say what now?”

“There’s a…” Caramel paused to think of something...then, “...disease, and it can only be revealed by urine.”

“Then shouldn’t Twilight be out here?”

“Uh...only earth ponies can get it.”

“How?”

“Urm….it has to do with… the dirt. Someone’s poisoned certain areas of it. If you touch it… you’ll fall into an eternal sleep in three days, having to wait for Prince Charming to wake you with a kiss.”

Applejack gave Caramel a strange look, “You’re not serious, are you?”

“Dead serious. My cousin stepped in it before falling asleep three days later. He never met anyone he liked; therefore, he sleeps forever.”

“Caramel, if this is some kinda weird attempt at a creepy story…”

“Honestly, you can’t make this stuff up.”

Applejack sighed, “Fine! I’ll take your...whatever story.”

“Good,” Caramel reached into his pocket and pulled out a cup, “Here ya go.”

“Are you-? Err! Fine,” Applejack takes the cup and goes behind a bush glaring at Caramel  every second. She made a motion for him to turn away. Caramel got the message as he faced away from Applejack. He had to admit, Applejack did look kinda cute when she was mad. It was almost like- No, he had to keep his focus on the task at hand.

Eventually, Applejack finished up, and returned to Caramel. “Ya happy?”

Caramel examined the contents: She was a pony. “Yes, thank you. You’re fine.” Caramel smiled.

“Well...good, now if you’ll excuse me, much as I enjoy peein’ in a cup, I gotta check up on Twilight.” Suddenly, Applejack realized something, “Dagnabit… we won’t be able to attend the meteor shower, Twi’s gonna be ticked…”

“Well, it’s better she stays safe,”

“I guess…”

“Um….” Caramel kicked at the dirt a couple times, “Can I get my car out of the garage?”

“Uh, sure. The Aston Martin?”

Caramel froze, “Um...yeah...how did you know?”

“I know my expensive cars pretty well,” Applejack smirked, putting her hands on her hips.

‘Cute, strong, AND knows cars?’ Caramel whistled, “I’m impressed, considering it was under a tarp.”

“Uh-huh. Not sure how you could afford somethin’ like that, though.”

“Um…” Caramel tried to think, ‘...and smart...great.’

“W-well-”

“Ya didn't steal it, did ya?”

“N-no...I didn’t,” The truth was, it was his own car, Khai gave him the car as a gift for this mission. "It was from a friend."

“Really?”

“Really.”

Applejack stared at Caramel, “I don’t believe you….but I’ll have to trust you, for now…”

“Thank you, you have no idea what this means to me.”

“Um...You’re right, I do have no idea…” Applejack gave Caramel a strange look, before walking back to the barn.

“Well, time to go to work…” Caramel walked back to the barn, mentally preparing for the approaching night…

******

Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy, meanwhile were sitting at a table, eating the donuts that Mrs. Cake had kept for them. They were currently watching Pinkie Pie. “She seems fine to me,” Fluttershy noted.

“You mean for Pinkie?” Rainbow added.

Fluttershy shrugged, and took another bite of her donut.

“Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, are you there,” Caramel said through the earpieces.

Rainbow Dash answered, “Loud and clear.”

“Good. I just learned that neither Twilight Sparkle nor Applejack is not the spy.”

“So...it’s either Pinkie or Rarity?”

“Yes.”

“Well, we’ll keep our eyes on Pinkie,”

“Good, Applejack asked me to pick up her little sister, so I’m going to try and spy on Rarity when I’ve dropped her off.”

“Gotcha.” Suddenly, a thought crossed Rainbow’s mind, “How’d you find out?”

“Well, Twilight suffered an injury, and I saw her blood. And I asked Applejack to take a urine test.”

Rainbow’s eyes widened, “You got AJ to-” Rainbow burst into laughter.

“What’s so funny…?” Caramel asked.

“You putting AJ through the test.”

“Oh...she did look kinda cute…”

“What?!” Fluttershy squeaked.

“Um...I have to go...I’ll see you tonight.” Caramel quickly hung up.

“That was odd...” Fluttershy folded her arms.

“Ya think,” Rainbow Dash replied.

Fluttershy frowned, and sighed. “Well, I guess we only have Pinkie to worry about.”

“Yeah...that SHOULD be easy.”

“Yeah…”

They both sat there in silence.

*****

Applebloom placed the last piece on the Star Decimator. “That’s it! We finished it,” Applebloom exclaimed happily.

“Yeah, it looks amazing,” Spike replied.

Applebloom smiled at Spike, “Maybe we should work on one of my sets.”

“Sure. Which one?”

“Umm….” Before Applebloom could think of a set, there was a knock at the door.

“I better get that,” Spike opened the door and ran down stairs, with Applebloom in toe.

“Might be AJ to get me.” Applebloom thought.

Spike shrugged, opened the door, and saw- Caramel? “Hey...Applebloom I’m here to bring you back home.”

“Oh...Ok.” She turned to Spike, “I had fun, Spike.”

“Uh, yeah, I did, too.”

Applebloom waved, and headed out with Caramel to his car.

Spike closed the door behind them, and flopped down on the couch. ‘Wow, I didn’t know Applebloom was so...cool… She’s even kinda-’ Spike shook his head at the very thought, ‘No! I’ve already got Rarity, sweet, generous, hot Rari- Hmm...Maybe I should check on her…’ But she DID make Twilight upset, and treated her like dirt… Still, he was her boyfriend…

Spike grabbed his coat off the rack, and headed off into the night.

******

Spike ran up to the door of Rarity’s door and knocked on the door. He waited for a few moments, and eventually Rarity came to the door. “Hello Spike, how are you doing this evening?” She asked.

“Fine, I was coming to see how you were doing,”

“Oh, I’m doing much better now that you’re here, would you like to come in?”

“Uh...Yeah, I guess…” Spike walked in unaware of what he was in for.

“Please, have a seat.”

“Uh, Thanks.” Spike sat on the couch, with Rarity sitting next to him.

“Spike, do you mind if I… Well, try and do what we were going to do, before Twilight showed up?”

“Uh...eat donuts?”

“What gave you that idea?”

“Um... That was what we were doing at that time.”

“No...dear,” She wrapped her arms around his neck and moved in closer, “This is what I meant.” She opened her mouth and pressed her lips to Spike’s. He was surprised for a second, but was instantly taken into the embrace when he felt Rarity’s tongue touching his own. He closed his eyes and ran his hands through Rarity’s hair, while she did the same on his head spikes. She pressed her hands firmly on his chest, sliding him down so his head would lay on the arm rest. Spike began to feel around Rarity’s tongue, it felt so soft…

Eventually, both needed air and they finally broke the kiss, breathing heavily. “Okay, that was pretty awesome,” Spike said still trying to catch his breath.

“Yes...It was,” Rarity breathing heavily as well, “In fact...how about we take it to the next level?”

“Uh...what do you mean?” Spike looked at his lover, a puzzled expression on his face.

“Spike...I assume Twilight told you about the Birds and the Bees?”

“She did but…” Spike’s eyes widened, “No! No way! I can’t!”

Rarity gave Spike an innocent look, “Why not, darling,” She inched towards his ear, and whispered, “Don’t you love me?”

“Of course I do, but...I’d rather wait, I mean, that’s kinda a huge step and I mean, what if I got you pregnant or something? What would Twilight do?”

“Well... we could run way,” She blew on his neck.

‘No, this isn’t right… I gotta get out of here!

He began to try to get Rarity off as gently as he could. “I just remembered, I was supposed to meet Twilight somewhere right about now.”

Suddenly, Rarity wrapped her hands harder around Spike, “Twilight, can wait,” She said through gritted teeth.

“Rarity, please! I don’t want to do this!”

“I don’t care! I NEED to do this!”

Spike found himself pushing harder against Rarity until his claws accidentally scratch her arm.

“OW! Why did you do that!?”

“I’m sorry, but-” Spike saw the cut on Rarity’s arm, there was something very unusual about it: it was green!

Chapter 12

“Applejack can we please please please please please please go?” Twilight begged from her position on the couch.

“I’m Sorry Twilight,” Applejack said for the umpteenth time, “but I have to wait until you stop bleeding.”

“I’m not bleeding anymore, and besides, I have...something I need to do at the meteor shower…”

“And what’d that be?”

“I was going to meet...someone…” Twilight looked away, her cheeks turning red.

“...And who’d that be?”

“Someone I met at the library after the… incident.”

“Oh? What was their name?”

“Comet Tail.”

“Ah… he was that cute, huh?”

Twilight’s eyes widened and she stared at Applejack, “Uh, I never even said he was a boy,”

“Ya didn’t have to,” Applejack smirked, “I could see it on your face.”

“Am I really being that noticeable?”

“Oh yeah.”

“Terrific…”

“Does he feel the same way about you?”

“Um… Spike said he seemed to be doing the same thing I was doing, just standing there, looking at him- Well, I mean, he wasn’t looking at himself, he was looking at me, which was kinda embarrassing since I was only wearing my pajamas, but if what Spike said was true, maybe he does.”

“Uh...whatever you say.”

Twilight exhaled hard, and asked, “Have you ever been in a situation like this?”

“Ya mean hittin my head? A few times, I suppose.”

“No, I mean, have you ever had any experience in...romance?”

Applejack sighed, “Once, back in High School.”

“Oh. How did that work out?”

“It went well, until I caught him in a car with another mare, and it wasn’t just small talk either.”

“I’m sorry that happened, Applejack.”

“Meh, don’t be; that happened a long time ago.”

“Still, no one should have to go through that.”

“Well, I hope you don’t have to, Twilight, hopefully this Comet Tail is the right guy for you.”

“I hope so too…”

*****

“R-Rarity, w-why is your blood...green?” Spike stammered.

“Whatever are you talking about,” Rarity asked.

“Your arm.”

“Oh...that’s nothing, Spike, now why don’t you-”

“You’re not Rarity!”

Rarity seemed taken by surprise, “What do you mean? Of course I’m Rarity.”

“No, this was in one of Twilight’s books, no one has green blood except for…”

Suddenly, Rarity jumped on top of Spike, pinning him to the ground. “Stop it! If you tell ANYONE about me, I will personally make sure that yours, and Twilight Sparkle’s lives are miserable. And the only way to get out of it would be to love me.”

“Where’s the real Rarity?”

“I am the real Rarity, whatever made you think I wasn’t a changeling this whole time?”

“Oh I don’t know, maybe the fact that you looked NOTHING LIKE A CHANGELING!”

“Spike,” Rarity said softly, while rubbing his shoulders, “You do remember changelings can change forms, don’t you?”

“But your form remained the same the whole time. If you want to prove it, ask Twilight for the Element of Generosity and see if it’ll work.”

Rarity rubbed her forehead, “Spike, I’ve tried being as nice and as gentle as I can about doing this, but you’re leaving me little choice.” She pressed her hands hard against Spike’s chest with nearly enough force to snap some ribs.

Spike winced at the increased pain. “What are you doing?”

“If you’re not going to do it willingly, I’ll have to do it by force.”

Before she could do anything else, there was a knock at the door.

“We’re closed!”

“Then why does the sign say ‘we’re open’?” A feminine voice asked.’

“I just forgot to change-”

“PLEASE HELP ME THIS CHANGELING IS GOING TO RAPE ME!!!!!” Spike blurted out.

Rarity glared at Spike, and pushed down harder, making a loud cracking noise followed by a loud scream of pain.

The door flew open, and in rushed Lyra, “Well, I think I found me a Siyah spy,” She sneered.

Rarity stood up, and in a bright flash of green fire, she was a changeling, wearing worn jeans and a ripped black hoodie.

“Whoa,” Spike exclaimed, “Guess you really are ugly on the inside.”

The spy merely glared at him.

“So, are you ready for a flank whooping,” Lyra asked.

“I was going to ask you the same thing.”

Suddenly, a burst of similar flame, revealing Lyra’s true form. She was pure white with Egyptian attire. Not one hole was present on her body, and her wings looked like a monarch butterfly’s.

Spike could only stare in awe of her appearance; she was beautiful. “Lyra… You’re…”

“Yes, I’m a changeling too. The Siyah changelings that you are familiar with are rebels. I’ll explain later.”

“We are not a rebellion,” “Rarity” frowned, “We are enlightened, we know our place as servants of Queen Chrysalis, who will take the throne of Equestria and-”

She was interrupted by Spike moving his body is such a way to trip the spy. Obviously, it wasn’t working as she picked up Spike by the collar of his shirt. “Spike, stop it this instant!” She felt an impact to her chest followed by a fall to the floor.

“No, you stop,” Lyra glared at her, “Stop hurting him and especially stop using him, Kanika.”

“Oh really Urbi?”

“Urbi,” Spike asked on the verge of laughing.

“It means ‘princess,’ where I’m from,” Lyra clarified.

“Oh…”

“Yeah…” Lyra- Erm… We mean Urbi… pressed her gold sandal into Rar-er, Kanika’s back.

Lancewing: Man that was awkward…

NotRamjet97: Yeah...Changelings, man, they do that.

Lancewing: Any other name cha-

Pinkie: SPOILER ALERT! SPOILER ALERT!

NotRamjet97: ….Anyway, let’s get back to the-

Kanika rolled toward her right, and Urbi lost her balance, and fell on her back. Kanika swiftly got back to her feet, and pointed a gun at Urbi's face. Urbi froze. “Shoot me, and you will be charged with killing royalty.”

“Wait, royalty,” Spike asked.

“Yes, I’m a princess where I come from. Kinda explains my name.”

"Will you all shut up?! I will rise to great rank in the Siyah for killing you, Urbi."

"Then what's stopping you?"

“Hm… Good point.” She pulled the trigger. Nothing. “What the heck?” She clicked it again. Nothing still. She looked at the safety trigger. It was switched on. "Grrr!"

By the time Kanika could switch the safety off, Urbi had already gotten to her feet and grabbed a mannequin.

“WHAT DO YOU THINK YOU’RE DOING,” a voice yelled. Everyone looked to see…

“Rarity, is that you,” Spike asked.

Rarity huffed, "I know this isn't my normal, ravishing state, but it is me."

“Well, as long as you’re the real deal, any sight’s good with me. By the way, what happened to you?”

"That Changeling imposter gave me to the Diamond Dogs!”

“She did wha-” Spike was interrupted by the pain in his chest.

"Spike! What happened?!"

"My ribs, I think she broke them."

"You'll be the lucky one," Kanika sneered.

"Really," Suddenly, Urbi kicked Kanika's leg, knocking them out from under her. The gun went off and Kanika hit the floor hard. Urbi's horn glowed as it suddenly shot out a large net, covering Kanika. "As far as I'm concerned, you'll be lucky if you don't get the death sentence. You and your kind have already tainted the reputation of the changelings. Don't make it any worse."

“Hmph, and you’re so well liked?"

“What do you mean?”

Suddenly, red and blue lights began to flash and a siren sounded. “What in the name of-” Urbi was interrupted by a voice over the loudspeaker.

“Changeling scumbags, we know you’re in there, come out with your hands up.”

“Yeah, THAT’S a way to get us out,” Urbi groaned.

"You may want to comply, no telling how long Spike will last," Kanika smirked.

“Fine… I’ll play it your way, for now.” Urbi quickly reverted back to Lyra and ran out.

Rarity just stood there confused. “What just happened?”

Just then, Rainbow Dash burst in. “Where’s the spy,” she immediately yelled.

"The what," Rarity asked.

"Caramel and Lyra told us that there was a Changeling spy pretending to be one of us, and Flutters and I just figured that it was Rari-" Rainbow suddenly glared at the white unicorn.

“Rarity isn’t the spy," Spike said, “or at least not the one over there. I saw the whole fight.”

Rainbow looked skeptical.

“Rarity walked in when Ly- um I mean… Urbi I think it was… I don’t know, but she attacked the Rarity that tried to rape me.”

"Whoa, whoa, whoa, raped?"

“Yeah. I fought her back and that’s how I found out that she’s a changeling.”

Rainbow’s eyes widened,"H-how exactly did you find out?"

“I kinda scratched her when I was trying to escape.”

"Oh...whew!"

“But she bled green blood. That’s how I knew.”

“Okay, that’s...better than it coulda been.”

“I guess...but I still feel...weird,” Spike sighed.

Fluttershy’s motherly instincts came in, “Oh, goodness, let’s lay you down.”

“No!” His ribs began to feel sore again.

Fluttershy jumped back at Spike’s sudden exclamation.

“I-I’m sorry, but after what happened with Rari- the spy...I just- need to be alone, AWAY from girls!”

Spike huffed, stuffed his hands in his pockets, and quietly left…

The girls stood there, speechless, never having seen this side of their friend before…

*****

Urbi (in her Lyra form), rushed to the head police officer, “Sir, there’s a Changeling spy in there, but she won’t be any trouble.”

“I see….” The police officer rubbed his chin, “Fortunately, neither will you.”

Before she could react, a pair of cuffs were slapped on Urbi’s wrists, “Wha-what are you doing?”

“Arresting another changeling, the one in the boutique’ll be number three.”

“Oh...no…” Urbi was (rudely) pushed into a police car, with: “Caramel? Really?”

“Yeah...and guess who it was…” Caramel moaned.

“I give up, who?”

Caramel took a deep breath, “Carrot Top….”

“WHAT?!?!”

“Yes...my ex-girlfriend.”

“YOU NEVER TOLD ME IT WAS CARROT TOP!!”

“What’s wrong with her, other than...this?”

“SHE THOUGHT ME AND BON BON WERE GAY!!!”

“I know, I know. Speaking of which, have you seen her?”

“Not really, I’ve tried to AVOID that gossip.”

“I was talking about Bon Bon.”

“Oh, she’s at home, though she’ll probably kill me for making her wait there…”

“Ya think? She’ll probably take me with you.”

Urbi chuckled, and gave Caramel a light punch. “What did you do to earn her wrath?”

“Better not say.”

“Fair enough.”

“So...how are we gonna get outta this?”

“Well, I expect that they did their homework, and I don’t expect them to let up on us. Hm…”

“But I’ll bet ya the research they did, was on the Siyah…”

“True. Maybe, just maybe, our original forms should do the trick.”

“Oh? And how would that work?”

“If they could see just how vastly different we look compared to her, maybe they could see that we are not the enemies.”

“Maybe… Maybe not…”

“Well, I did have another plan…”

“And what’d that be?”

“I can’t tell you, Khai told me not to tell ANYONE.”

“Not even your carive?”

“Nope,” Urbi grinned.

Caramel sighed, “Fine, but if you need my help, I’ll be here, my sevci.”

Urbi grinned, “Thank you, my beloved carive.”

Chapter 13

Spike slammed the door to his room, then plopped down on his bed. Thoughts continued to race through his head, disturbing thoughts of what might have happened. 'Please tell me this is just a nightmare and I'll wake up perfectly happy?'

Nope.

'Oh c'mon...'

This SUCKED.

‘Okay, so I go to visit Rarity, Rarity tries to rape me, and it turns out that the one I thought was Rarity is a changeling! But that was the one that wanted to rape me, so the real Rarity might not want to take it to the next level right? But what if the fake Rarity was the only one who wanted a relationship, what if the real Rarity wants nothing to do with me?’ He put a hand to his head. ‘Man do I have a headache!’

Spike pulled the covers over his body, and held them close, 'I knew it was too good to be true, nopony would date a dragon, especially Rarity, it'd be too 'uncouth'. I wish Twilight were here right now.’

******

"She seems perfectly fine to me," The nurse told Applejack, "But she'll need to stay off her feet and get some rest.”

"Alrighty,  Doc, thanks for checkin, ah was just concerned being a head injury ‘n’ all."

“You’re welcome,” The nurse smiled and walked out of the Apple household.

Applejack made her way back to where Twilight lay on the bed. “Doin’ alright, Twi?”

“A little annoyed,” Twilight answered.

“Yeah...sorry Twilight…” She sat at the foot of the couch, “It’s all mah fault.”

“No, it was just an accident, it was NOT your fault.”

Both girls remained silent for a few moments.

“Should I call Spike and tell him that I’ll be a little longer than I planned?”

“Might be a good idea, I’ll get the-”

Suddenly, the phone rang. Applejack walked over and picked up the receiver, “Hello?”

“AJ…” It was Rainbow Dash, “Is Twilight there?”

“Um...yeah...Do you need to talk to her?”

“Um..yeah, it’s important…”

“Uh...Okay…” Applejack picked up the phone, dragged it to Twilight, and handed it to her.

Twilight took the receiver, “Hello?”

“Uh...hey Twilight...listen...um...are you sitting down?”

“I’m laying down, does that count?”

“I guess that’s close enough… anyway…Um, you see, it’s about Spike…”

“What about him?”

Rainbow sighed…”Well...Spike was…”

“Yeah?”

“Spike was almost raped by a changeling.”

“WHAT?!?!?!?!?!?!”

Applejack gave Twilight a funny look.

Twilight looked at Applejack. “Spike was nearly raped by a changeling.”

“WHAT?!?!?!”

“Exactly.”

Twilight bolted up to her feet, "Tell me where that bucker is RIGHT NOW Rainbow Dash," Twilight gritted her teeth.

“She’s in jail with Caramel and Lyra,” Rainbow Dash answered.

"I don't give a flying buck about them. I am going to KILL that changeling!"

Before Applejack could react, Twilight bolted out the door.

*****

Rainbow sat down in one of the chairs, it had been a long night of reporting everything and trying to convince the police of Lyra and Caramel's story. Needless to say, it wasn't working. "Guess I can't blam em," Dash confessed, "I'm not exactly Most Valuable Citizen or anything."

Rainbow looked to the seat next to her and saw Fluttershy, asleep. "Has been a long night."

Suddenly, the door to the police station opened, and a black Pegasus appeared. He wore a leather jacket, white t-shirt, jeans, and boots. He went over to the woman behind the desk, "I'm here to see Lyra and Caramel.”

“You mean the two changelings? You’ll have to wait until visiting hours.”

"I see, when will those be?"

"Tomorrow after 12."

"Well, then. I see that I'll have to spring them, how much is bail?"

“So far, there is no bail set for them. They haven’t calculated the amount yet. Besdes, it would be too expensive. I mean, you’re talking two changelings here.”

"But aren't they ponies  just the same?”

“Well ,they do have a pretty bad reputation. They claim the third one that was with them was a spy.”

"Nevertheless, one is my brother in law, while the other is my wife." The man stood straighter, "So I would like them, NOW!"

“Wait a minute,” Rainbow Dash said standing up, “You’re Urbi’s husband?”

“Wait, how do you know her name?”

"We helped her with capturing the spy."

"We?"

“Uh...yeah, me and the girl asleep in that chair.” Rainbow pointed to Fluttershy.

“Wait,” The woman behind the desk interrupted, “You were helping the changelings?”

Rainbow froze up, “Uh…”

Suddenly, the door flew open, and an infuriated Twilight Sparkle marched to the front, “Where is that little lowlife changeling scum?” She demanded.

“Which one?”

The stranger glared at the woman. "Watch it, Missy."

Twilight huffed, “The one that nearly raped my son!”

Rainbow glanced at Twilight, she had never heard her friend call Spike “her son”. "Um... Twilight..."

"What?!"

"Spike isn't your son...isn't he your assistant?"

"Still! He was nearly raped!"

"So... You want to press charges," the woman asked.

"No... I want to strangle him!"

"Her," Rainbow Dash corrected.

"Whatever!"

"Twilight, you might want to calm down."

"I'm not going to calm down! I'll calm down when that perverted bucker is DEAD!"

"Twilight, I'm trying to help you, go home and calm down.

"I will not!"

Fluttershy was just now waking up. "Wh-What happened?"

*****

The cell door to Caramel and Lyra's cell opened, revealing a police officer, followed by the stranger, Twilight, Rainbow, and Fluttershy. "You've got thirty minutes."

The officer left the quartet, closing the cell door behind her.

“Got ya selves in a mess, huh?” Rainbow asked.

Caramel grunted, while Lyra merely stood up, “This was NOT a part of the plan, we didn’t think Qr- a...civilian would blow our position.”

“I see…” The stranger rubbed his chin, “Well, I’m doing all I can to bail you out, but the police aren’t being reasonable.”

“I see… Wait a minute… Khai?”

“Hello Urbi,” The stranger grinned.

She instantly hugged the stranger. “Am I happy to see you!”

“I am, too, my beloved.”

“Okay, what is going on here,” Twilight asked.

“Um…” Rainbow began, “Lyra and Caramel are really changelings...and they’re the ones who caught the spy that tried to rape Spike, but the police arrested them with the spy.”

“Oh...Well, thank you, I really appreciate it.”

“All in a day’s work,” Lyra replied, “We’ve actually been searching for these changelings for two years.”.

Twilight gasped, “That’s when I came to Ponyville! Are you saying-”

“No, that does not mean that the Rarity you knew was a fake.”

Twilight breathed a sigh of relief. “That’s good.”

“Yes...We believe this spy took Rarity’s form a few days ago.”

“Oh...So where’s the real Rarity?”

“She’s at home,” Caramel explained, “Recovering from an...incident with a pack of Diamond Dogs.”

Twilight facepalmed. “Not again…”

“Again?” Caramel and Lyra asked at the same time.

“She was captured by Diamond Dogs before.”

“Oh…”

The stranger, Khai, sighed loudly.

“What’s wrong, Khai?” Lyra asked.

“I...had hoped the people of Equestria would be different, perhaps the ‘incident’ with the Siyah made it more difficult, but-” Khai sighed again, “Perhaps it won’t work out after all.”

“What won’t work out?” Twilight asked.

“We were hoping to one day show all of Equestria that not all of the changelings are bad.”

Twilight raised an eyebrow, "Why?"

“Because we weren’t exactly popular to before Chrysalis went rogue.”

"True..." Twilight confessed, she wanted to help them, they had saved Spike from being abused, but how could she know that their intentions were true?

“All we want is to live as equals.”

Twilight sighed, "Girls? I'm gonna step outside for a bit..."

"Uh, okay, Twi." Rainbow said.

*****

Twilight paced around the station. There was too much going on in one day for her to think straight, so many things were flooding her mind. First, she meets someone, then she hits her head on a branch, Spike was nearly violated, and now she is being told there are changelings that are good!

Twilight slumped down to the floor, rubbing her head. 'Why is this happening? And all now? I-I just-'

Twilight felt something touch her shoulder. She looked up and saw Fluttershy, "Are you alright, Twilight?"”

“Oh. Um… Yeah, I’m fine. I just have a lot to take in.”

Fluttershy sat down next to Twilight, "I...I wish I could help..."

"Um...there is something I could use..."

"What?"

"A hug."

“I think I could take care of that.”

Fluttershy wrapped her arms around Twilight, holding the unicorn closely.

“Thank you.”

"You're welcome."

Twilight sighed after a few moments, "I think I know someone else who needs a hug." Twilight stood up, "I'm going home, I think Spike needs someone to hug him."

“I think that’ll be a good idea.”

*****

Twilight knocked on Spike's door, "Spike? May I come in?"

No answer.

“Spike?”

Still nothing.

Twilight opened the door to Spikes room and stepped inside. “Spike?”

Spike didn’t answer.

“Are...you okay?”

Still no response.

“Sorry...that was a stupid question…”

Still nothing.

Twilight sighed, and sat down on the bed next to him, “Do you need to talk about it?”

“What is there to talk about?”

“Well… I just didn’t know if you need to maybe get something off your chest.”

“Please! Don’t mention body parts.”

“O-oh, I’m sorry,” Twilight bit her lip, “Do you want to be left alone?”

“Yes!”

The word surprised Twilight, but she couldn’t blame him, she wouldn’t want to talk about something so...horrifying herself. “Well, I guess I should give you some time, but I do want you to know this.”

Spike soon felt Twilight pull him into a hug. “I love you Spike, ever since that first night we spent together. We may not be related, or even the same species, but you’re like a son to me, and I want to do everything I can to help you through this, Spike.”

Spike remained silent.

“I have to go back to the jail, but-”

“Wait,” Spike said.

“Yeah?”

“C-could you maybe stay here? I-I changed my mind, I...just need someone here.”

Twilight grinned, “Of course I will.”

Chapter 14

Rarity lay on the couch, alone with her thoughts. Any chance she had with Spike was now gone, all thanks to a changeling. But perhaps it was for the best; he was younger than her by six years, and how would Twilight feel,? Or her parents? Or even Sweetie Belle? And would they even be able to have kids since he was a dragon? She sat up and rubbed her face. She needed something to drink. She got up and made her way to the kitchen.

She opened the refrigerator and took out a container of grape juice. Next she took a glass from the cabinet and poured the juice in the glass. She took the container and placed it back in the fridge. She then took the cup and drank the entire thing in three gulps. She set the glass down on the counter and sighed. She looked over to one of the cabinet doors, it contained a certain… bottle...which contained red wine that she kept for about a year. She had got it during her time in Canterlot as a gift from Fancy Pants, she had considered letting everyone have it at Twilight’s birthday party, but overheard that Twilight didn’t like to drink, so she just kept it and put it away. she wasn’t sure why she hadn’t thrown it away, though it was a gift… It would be bad to have it go to waste, right?

“Rarity?”

Rarity jumped at her name being called. She looked over to see Sweetie Belle. "Oh...hello Sweetie Belle, I didn't know you were home."

"Uh, yeah, I came back to get my notebook...Are you okay?"

“Oh… Yes. Why do you need your notebook?”

"Just to write some songs..."

“Oh.”

"Yeah, kinda need something to write them down.”

"Oh...do you want me to take you back?"

"No, I'll just ride my bike, thanks though."

"Oh, alright, I'll see you tomorrow."

“Yeah, see ya, Rarity."

Rarity was about to put up her glass, when she thought of something, "Sweetie?"

Sweetie Belle turned to Rarity. “Yes?”

"You aren't by chance...seeing anyone, are you?"

"Um...what do you mean?"

"Like...dating..."

“Dating? Um… Not really.”

"Oh, do you have a crush on anyone?"

“Well… Kinda.”

“And who would that be?”

"Um...his name's Pipsqueak..."

"Oh, how old is he?"

"Thirteen...yes a year older than me, but there's no way he'd ever go on a date with me."

"Why not?"

"Well, for one, he's an earth pony, and his dad's in the Navy, so after the school year he'll be gone, and I heard him talking to another girl, and he said he didn't want to get in a relationship cuz he won't be back."

"Oh...I'm sorry."

"Yeah. Oh well, there's tons of guys out there, and I'd kinda like to get my cutie mark before I start dating."

“You still haven’t earned it?”

“No, not yet.”

"Well, I'm sure you'll get it," Rarity smiled.

"Yeah...I hope so..." Sweetie sighed, "Well, I gotta go, the girls will be wondering where I am."

“Okay. Will you be watching the meteor shower?”

"Yeah, will you?"

“I don’t know. I…” Rarity looked at the bottle. “You know what, I think I will.”

"Okay. Do you wanna watch it with us?"

"Um...would you mind?"

"Sure! Just...please don't talk about boys, kay?"

"Agreed."

******

Princess Celestia was in her nightgown and was preparing to go to sleep. She reached for the hairbrush when she heard a knock at the door. "Come min."

The door opened to reveal Luna. She was wearing  a black T-shirt with blue jeans, and tennis shoes. Her hair was done into a ponytail, and her royal jewelry was visible. "Good evening, sister."

“Good evening, Sister. Come to wish me good night?”

“Actually, no. I was wondering if you would like to see the meteor shower.”

“Oh, you know I’m not as much of a night pony as you.”

“Oh. Well that’s too bad. I guess SOMEONE will be pretty disappointed to come all this way just to be turned away…”

“Someone?”

“Yes, this pony I invited is actually Eclipse’s companion, and you two have a good bit in common.”

"Was it Eclipse's roommate?"

“Yes, it is.”

"Hmm...have you seen him?"

“I have. For you, he’ll be… Um… How do they say it? Um… Hm… Oh yeah. ‘The full package’.”

Celestia raised an eyebrow, "Really? Hmm.... Maybe I will go, but I'll have to dress more......appropriately."

“Yeah, the title of ‘Princess of the Night’ is mine and mine alone, and even I wouldn’t dress like this in public.”

"What about when you were fifteen?"

“That was a different situation.”

“How so?”

“It was for a party. Everyone was required to dress in their pajamas.”

“Hm… Touche.”

*****

Eventually, Celestia found more appropriate attire, which consisted of a pink t shirt, jeans, tennis shoes, her hair braided, and her royal necklace around her neck. "How is this, Lu-Lu?"

“Perfect. Now come with me.”

"Where are we going?"

“To meet the boys. They are waiting for us at the gate.”

"Ah… I see, where will we be watching them-er.. The shower?"

“I already set us up a place on the balcony, but right now, we are going to make an entrance.”

"I see....if I had known we were making an entrance I would have worn something else."

“Oh haven’t you hard? Casual’s the new fancy.”

"Really, I wonder how Twilight’s friend, Rarity, took the news..."

“Fine… I didn’t want you to dress up too much.”

"Ah...you could've just told me."

“Well, I wasn’t sure how you’d take it…”

“Luna, I’d think after being back a few years you’d know me better by now.”

“I know, but still…”

Celestia rolled her eyes, while Luna opened the large doors, using her magic. Behind the door, stood two men, one was Eclipse, who was wearing a blue t-shirt, jeans, and boots.

The other was- ‘HOLY SWEET MOTHER FAUST! LUNA YOU WERE NOT KIDDING!’ Celestia thought, unfortunately for her, Luna was an Alicorn.

‘Tia, please, I know he’s...hot...as some ponies say, but really.’

‘And how did you react when you saw Eclipse?’ Celestia smirked.

Luna didn’t respond.

Said ‘hot’ stallion was white with a red mane, and had a necklace with the sun at the end. He wore a purple shirt, shorts, and brown shoes. He looked at Celestia. “Hello, your majesty.”

Celestia snapped out of her trance. “Greetings.”

“Pardon my saying so, but you are a very attractive woman.”

“Thank you,” both Luna and Celestia said in unison. They both looked at each other before giggling.

“Shall we go,” Eclipse asked.

“Yes,” Luna grinned.

*****

Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash were now outside the police station. Their visiting hours were over and they were forced to leave. “Want me to walk you home, Flutters,” Rainbow asked.

“Oh, I couldn’t ask you to do that, it’s so out of your way.”

“Nah, it’s cool,” Rainbow shrugged.

“Um...okay…”

Rainbow half grinned and headed towards Fluttershy’s cottage.

Fluttershy was actually kind of hoping she could talk to Rainbow ever since spying on Caramel and Lyra, something kept making Fluttershy wonder about her friend, something that was going to be very awkward.

“You okay, Flutters?”

“Huh? Oh... Yes...”

“Are you sure?”

“I’m pretty sure...”

“Well...Let me know if somethin’s wrong, ‘kay?”

“Um...okay…”

*****

Fluttershy entered the house while Rainbow stood outside. “See ya, Flutters.”

“Um…” Fluttershy bit her lip, she was so going to regret this, “Could you come in for a bit?”

“Uh...I guess,” Rainbow walked in, closing the door behind her, “What’s up?”

Fluttershy swallowed, “U-uh...R-rainbow?”

“Yeah…?”

“A-a-are you….?”

“Yeah…?”

“Are you a...a…”

“Flutttershy if you want to-”

“ARE YOU A LESBIAN?!” Fluttershy blurted, and instantly regretted it.

Rainbow sighed, and rubbed her temples. “Can we go to your room?”

“U-uh...O-okay…”

Rainbow led Fluttershy to the bedroom.

Fluttershy closed the door behind her and sat on her bed while Rainbow leaned against the wall. “Okay, just to get things straight, I don’t like girls like that. I did at one point, but my parents had a talk with me about that.”

“Oh. So... you do like boys?”

“Well… I did, but then… Well… Let’s just say that I don’t really trust them enough to date them.”

“Oh… Why?”

Rainbow paused for a minute. She never told this to anyone, and she was actually embarrased in saying that she doesn’t trust boys. “Remember that incident where Spike was almost.. you know…”

“Yeah?”

“Well… One boy that I used to date actually succeeded with me.”

Fluttershy gasped. “Oh. I-I never knew. I’m sorry.”

“It’s okay. It happened when I was sixteen; that was years ago.”

“But didn’t that open an old wound?”

“Yeah, and to be honest, it was pretty traumatizing. And he seemed so perfect...”

“What happened to him?”

“He got ten years in jail, but he’s lucky my dad never got close to him.”

Fluttershy winced at the thought. “So after that incident…”

“I began having thoughts in my head that girls would be a better match to be than boys since they can’t… You know…”

“Oh. That must have been when you had that talk with your parents…”

“Yeah. They didn’t really yell at me, but they told me why going out with another girl was a bad idea.”

“I see…”

“Since then, I vowed off dating all together. I mean, I can’t date boys without the risk of being raped, and I can’t date girls, period.”

“I see, but not all boys are bad.”

“I know, but what if it happens again?”

"But what if there's someone out there for you, and you miss him?”

"I doubt that, Fluttershy, I just don’t think I’ll ever find someone.”

“Not if you keep up with that attitude.”

"Well… fine! There's more out there than being in a relationship.”

“Oh, I really don’t doubt that. I’m just saying that you can’t keep living your life in fear.”

"Well, Can't I be allowed to be scared of one thing?"

"It's okay to be afraid, but when you let it control your life, it’ll ruin you. A certain pony I know taught me that.”

"Look, I'm happy you've found a guy you like and maybe he likes you, but I’ll say it again: I’m not interested.”

Fluttershy sighed. “Okay…”

******

Comet Tail walked over to the library and knocked on the door. He was planning on escorting Twilight to the meteor shower.

Soon, the door opened revealing Twilight. "O-oh h-hi Comet Tail."

"Hi...Um...are you ready to go?"

“Well… not exactly…”

“What do you mean 'not exactly'…”

“You might want to come inside and sit down because it’s a pretty long story.”

"Uh...okay..." Comet walked into the library and took a seat in the nearest chair. Twilight sat across from him.

“Okay, I guess we should start with why I’m still here…” She sighed before continuing, “Do you remember Spike?”

"Um...the dragon?"

“Yes, that’s him.”

“What happened to him?”

“He was assaulted by a changeling.”

"Assaulted...how?"

“He was nearly violated by her.”

"O-Oh....wow....I'm sorry that happened...do you need anything?"

“Maybe some advice, or at least some words of comfort for him.”

"Um...well, I can sure try, but I've never had any experience with....assault."

“Um… Okay… Just let him know that I’m not the only one who supports him.”

"Oh...well I think I can do that."

"Okay, thank you." Out of nowhere, Twilight hugged him.

Comet wasn't sure how to react, he had never been hugged by a girl before, so this felt...different.

Twilight ended the embrace, and Comet noticed tears staining her cheeks. "Thank you so much, you're willing to do this for someone you hardly know. I don't know what to say."

“Y-You don’t have to say anything.”

Twilight smiled at him through the tears, "You're a good man, Comet Tail," She whispered.

“Well, someone’s gotta do it,” Comet replied blushing, “Why not me?”

"Do what?" Spike asked.

They both looked at Spike a little surprised.

“Well, I was just remarking something Twilight said.”

“Okay… And what was it?”

“That he was a nice pony,” Twilight said. “In fact, Comet has something to say to you.”

"Oh really?"

"Um...yeah...Listen, I know what happened must’ve been...Difficult-”

“Difficult? Every time I look at anything remotely associated with Rarity, I feel sick.”

"I figured, but that Rarity wasn't real. The real Rarity wouldn't do that to you, right?"

“No, but the face, voice, body, that was all Rarity’s, and it just makes me sick. And besides, should I date someone about six years older than me?”

"Probably not..."

“See? And she deserves someone better than me, I’m just a dumb kid lizard going through puberty.”

“That’s not true Spike,” Twilight said.

“Isn’t it? I’ll just grow up into a greedy old dragon and-” Spike winced in pain, “Ow…”

“Spike? Are you okay?” Twilight rushed to him.

“It’s fine, my back’s just been hurting lately.”

“It has? Why haven’t you told me?”

"Because I've already worried you enough."

"Oh. But still, it would be a good idea to have that looked at just to be safe."

“Did you get your head checked out, too?”

Twilight had completely forgotten about her head’s wound, especially considering her hair did a good job of covering it up. “I did, but I’m more concerned about you.”

“Well...I’m fine, it’s nothing.”

“Can I see your back?”

“Sure, but I’m not sure if you’ll find anything.”

“Um...would you like me to leave,” Comet asked.

“Might be a good idea,” Spike answered.

“Okay then, I’ll be waiting outside.”

Comet left the two alone, leaving Twilight to check Spike’s back. Spike removed his shirt and turned around. Twilight examined the dragon’s back. At first she didn’t see anything, but... “Spike, what are these two bumps on your back?”

“I dunno, kinda figured they’d go away after a while.”

“But what if they didn’t? What if it’s some dragon specific disease?”

“I… Um… Uh… I don’t know...”

“I’m going to see if Comet Tail would be willing to help me do some research as to what these bumps are.”

“Okay...But can I put my shirt back on?”

“Sorry, I need to keep an eye on those bumps. Besides, dragons prefer to be naked.”

“Not one that’s been raised by ponies.”

“Touche, but you need to keep it off.”

“Rats…”

“Spike, you sleep in your underwear, it’s no different.”

“It’s not in front of two people.”

“Well, I could take a picture…”

“Yes!”

“That Rainbow Dash might see…”

“Fine…I’ll keep it off...”

“Okay then. I’ll bring Comet in here.” Twilight left Spike and retrieved Comet Tail.

*****

“Here are all the books I have on dragons,” Twilight set a pile of books on the table.

Comet sat there wide-eyed at the pile that lay before him. “That’s a lot of books…” A goofy grin spread across his face, “I love it!”

“Then let’s not wait any longer.”

“Uh...let’s see…” Comet looked over the pile of books, “I’ll take Dragon Anatomy and you can have Dragon Reproduction.”

“Sure!”

"Ugh," they heard Spike say.

“I’m sorry Spike, I know this is embarrassing but I just want to make sure you’re okay.”

"Just hurry it up already."

“Okay.” Twilight opened the book and began to read at her usual fast rate. After a few moments, “Hmm...Did you know that the Male chromosome is significantly stronger than the Female?”

“Really? That’s interesting considering us ponies have a stronger Fema-”

“Oh good grief! I’m gonna get my Gameguy, AND my headphones!” Spike exclaimed.

“Okay, but hurry back.”

Spike rolled his eyes.

After he had left, Twilight put a hand on Comet’s. Comet looked up to see a smiling Twilight. “Thank you for doing this, I know you’d probably rather watch the meteor shower.”

“Eh..It’s fine, besides, there’s gonna be another shower in eight months.”

“I see...I hope I can join you for that one.”

“Me too,” Comet grinned.

Both unicorns went to work gathering the information and exchanging it with each other as Spike returned with his Gameguy and headphones. He put the headphones on and turned on the Gameguy, but… “Wha- Gr… My headphones are busted!” He took them off and turned the volume of his Gameguy to its highest setting.

“Hmm...It says here that dragon dung is an excellent fertilizer.” Comet noted.

“Really,” Twilight asked.

“Yeah. Gross, but the mineral content is very high.”

“Hm… I wonder why…” She glanced over at Spike.

“Because of all the ponies we eat when they’re making fun of our poop.” Spike muttered, “But I guess the gems have something to do with it.”

“Ah…” Comet and Twilight said at the same time.

Comet looked further in the book. “Yep, there it is. ‘The most common items dragons most commonly eat are stone and gems or diamond because all of the excess is discharged from them.”

Twilight looked over to Spi- “Spike?!” He was gone!

“Where did he go?”

“I don’t know, but I have to keep an eye on his back.” It suddenly dawned on Twilight…”Ugh! I’m so stupid!”

“What?”

“Those two bumps are his wings!”

“Oh…”

“Yeah, turn into the section that mentions a dragon’s wings.”

Comet Tail did just that and read further. “‘When a dragon reaches puberty, his wings will start to develop. Wingspans vary, but it will take about a month for the wings to reach their full width.’”

“I’m such a goofball…”

“It was an honest mistake, I’m sure he’ll understand.”

“But now we have to find him.”

“Find who?” Spike asked.

They both stared at Spike. “Where were you,” they both asked in unison.

“Reading books on pony reproduction, and unicorn mating rituals,” he said with a smirk.

Both unicorns blushed. “Anyway,” Twilight said, “I just remembered what those bumps were.”

“Oh? And what were they?”

“Your wings. When you reached puberty, you also started growing a pair of wings.”

Spike’s jaw dropped, “So...I’m not pregnant?”

Twilight giggled, “No, you’re getting wings. Oh wait until Rainbow Dash hears about this!”

“Eh...She’ll probably just make fun of my crashes.”

“Don’t be silly. She could teach you though, but you will have to wait a month for your wings to develop.”

“Rats…”

“But I’m afraid your back will hurt more and more as they develop. But I may know a few things to help you out, and I’m sure Zecora has some potions that could help.”

“Uh...Okay…”

“Is something wrong, Spike?”

“No...I just...I’m really getting wings?”

“You are.”

“Wow…”

Comet Tail smiled, “I’m happy for you two.”

“Thank you for helping, Comet, sorry you wasted your time.”

“It wasn’t a waste of time, I got to spend more time with you.”

Twilight blushed and, unbeknownst to her, her horn had turned completely blue. Comet’s, meanwhile, also changed color, but it was pink.

“W-would you still like to go to the meteor shower,” Comet asked.

“Um… Yes, I would…”

“Okay, but please turn your horns back to normal,”Spike said, “The first stage of a unicorn mating ritual is that their horns change color to reflect the gender of their partner.”

“What,” They both said as they looked at each other. Once they realized what was going on, they instantly looked away.

“I-I’m...sorry about that…” Twilight stuttered.

“It’s okay, I didn’t really get a hold of myself either,” Comet Tail replied.

“Um...Maybe I should get ready…”

“Yeah… I’ll just go to the bathroom real quick.”

“Uh...Okay...I’ll see you there- err I mean, when your done...in the bathroom…”

“Okay.”

With that, both unicorns went their separate ways, leaving Spike laughing hysterically.

Chapter 15

Rainbow lay on her bed, she didn’t feel like going to the meteor shower; and after everything that had happened with the Changelings and Spike, her head could not process anything else. It wasn’t like another thing was going to happen, right?

*RING! RING!*

Wrong. Rainbow Dash picked up her wireless phone which displayed on its caller ID… Gilda’s number? Rainbow answered it, “What do you want?”

“Well, that’s a warm greeting,” Gilda scoffed sarcastically.

“Well considering how you left, it’ll be as warm of one as you’ll get. Now start talking.”

Gilda sighed, “Look, I need to talk to you, can we meet somewhere?”

“Sorry, but I’ve already been through a lot. Besides, why should I trust you after what you did to my friends.”

“You shouldn’t, I treated you guys like trash, I just wanna make amends…”

“Well, for one thing, ‘trash’ is an understatement, but you had it on the nose.”

“Yeah...I’m sorry, I just...really feel bad. Word must have gotten out because now I’m hated by even my own kind, plus I was arrested for a hate crime after punching a random pony in the face.”

“Well THAT’S reassuring…”

“Yeah, I’m living on the street now, no one in Griffopolis wants to deal with me…”

“Oh, then it looks like I’m not alone, because I don’t either.”

“I figured, I just...I feel really alone right now, and that’s saying something because I’m holding a baby right now.”

“Wait, what? Did you steal that baby?”

“No… He’s mine, he’s all I have left, and I’m afraid he won’t last long out here.”

“Gilda, I’m kinda having a hard time believing you, especially when you throw a baby in the mix.”

“I’m not kidding. I’ll show you his birth certificate if I have to, along with my record showing you the charge.”

‘I am so going to regret this,’ Dash thought. “Where are you?”

“I’m in Manehattan now.”

“So...I’m supposed to drop everything and meet you cuz you SUPPOSEDLY have a baby?”

“No, It’ll take me a while to get there. In fact, I finally got a ticket after… Well… You don’t wanna know.”

“Good Celestia… I hope the baby wasn’t involved. For that matter, I hope everyone’s still alive.”

“Dash, I’m not a murderer and the baby’s fine. Just don’t ask when I get there.”

“Fine… When will you be there?”

“In the morning.”

“Okay… I’ll meet you at the train station, when’s it arrive?”

“10:30 a.m.”

“Might be a little late then…”

“You still sleep that late?”

“Yeah.”

There was a laugh heard on Gilda’s end. “You haven’t changed a bit.”

“Well, it might not sound like it...But I hope you have… For everyone’s sakes.”

“I have, Dash, I hope I can prove that to you.”

“Alright, but if you pull one of your old tricks, all bets are off.”

“Okay, I understand. Dash?”

“Yeah?”

“Thanks, this means a ton.”

“Whatever, just be warned, I’m bringing my friend Applejack, and she’s as good a butt kicker as I am, and she doesn’t even have wings.”

"Okay, thanks again."

“Just get some rest, because you’ll need it if you make one wrong move.”

"Sleep? You haven't been around babies, have you?"

“No, still single. Wait, how long have you had that baby?”

"He was born January 30th, so almost a year."

“Okay… I’m surprised the police didn’t take him from you.”

“They did, but I got him back After I served three months in jail.”

"Well, I'll give you this, you got all the elements of a sob story."

“Hm… Dad was right, maybe I should have become a writer.” Gilda shrugged it off.

“Maybe… but I'm still finding it hard to believe..."

“ALL ABOARD!” A male voice announced.

“I have to go now, See you in the morning,” Gilda quickly said.

“Okay, see ya in the morning.” Dash hung up and quickly dialed another number.

"Hello?" Applejack greeted.

“Hey, Applejack? This is Rainbow Dash. Could you meet me at the train station at 10:30?”

“Sure Sugargcube, but why? Who are you waiting for?”

"Well...an old friend called...a certain griffon friend..."

“What griffon friend do you-” It dawned on Applejack, “It’s Gilda, isn’t it?”

"Yup, and boy does she have a story."

“Let me guess, she’s homeless with a baby?” Applejack took a drink of apple juice.

“Yes.”

The juice sprayed out of her mouth. "Does she expect us to believe her?"

“No, she doesn’t, but what choice do we have?”

“Maybe hang up?”

"Eh… I almost did, the kid thing though..."

“Rainbow, why are you puttin’ up with her after what she did to us?”

“I don’t know. I guess because I just want her to change.”

"Ah do too, sugar cube, but I really have my doubts." She took another sip.

“Well, she was arrested for punching a pony, so I guess she learned her lesson.”

Another spit take. “WHAT?!?!”

"Yeah… They held her kid until she got out of jail three months later."

"Hmm...poor kid, having a mom like Gilda..."

“Kinda makes me wonder how well she treats the kid, but still…”

"Is that why you want me to come? Rescue the kid?"

Rainbow laughed, “No, but would be good to keep in mind if she makes one wrong move.”

"Gotcha, should I bring my revolver?"

“No, bring your rope.”

"Okay, anything else?"

“That should be it… Now I just need some peace and quiet… I’ve been through too much in one day."

"Know how ya feel, I need some sleep, too. G'night, Dash."

“Good night.” Dash hung up and collapsed on the bed. She kicked her shoes off and slipped out of her jacket, before throwing the comforter over her.

******

Comet and Twilight laid a blanket on the ground. They had picked a spot on an almost vacant hill, that Comet said would have a great view. "Why isn't anyone here? if this is such a great view." Twilight wondered.

“I’m sure they’ll show up,” Comet relied.

“They better. It’s about to start.”

"Trust me, I'm an Astronomer, I know the stars."

“I was talking about the other ponies. They’re going to miss this.”

"Oh, do you want to let them know?"

"I think it'd be the right thing to do..."

"Okay...want me to go with you?"

“No, you stay here and make sure no one steals the blanket, and I’ll be right back.”

"Okay, see ya in a bit."

“Okay.” With that, Twilight vanished in a flash of light.

This left Comet alone with his thoughts. This was the first time he had gone to an event with a girl, not to mention she was awfully attractive...

******

Meanwhile on the balcony of Canterlot castle, Luna and Celestia were conversing with their own boys. "So Solaris, how long have you two been friends?" Celestia asked.

“Well, Eclipse and I have know each other ever since we were kids.”

"I see... So, Eclipse, have you enjoyed dating my sister?"

“More than you know…”

"I see...have you enjoyed your time with him, Lu-Lu?”

“More than thou knowest, Tia…”

"Well...I'm glad you found someone, Luna." Celestia grinned.

Solaris looked at Celestia. “I feel like they’re having all the fun right now."

"Indeed, but it's good to see her having fun with someone."

“Yeah…”

"So...do you enjoy living with Eclipse?"

“Oh yeah, but I do have to “nag” him about some things.”

“No you don’t,” Eclipse snapped.

“Yes I do. You are disorganized on certain things and you don’t seem to have much… What’s the word I’m looking for… Urgency! That’s was the word. It’s a wonder you were able to keep a date.”

“Well, it’s hard for me to want to do that when you keep leaning over my shoulder about that kind of stuff. Trust me, it’ll get done.”

“When will that be?”

“Careful you two. Thou might have another Nightmare Moon be born right here,” Luna joked.

"We definitely wouldn't want that." Celestia sternly replied.

"A what?" Solaris asked.

“Wait, thou hast no known of Nightmare Moon,” Luna asked.

"Sorry..."

“Don't be, it was...a difficult time for us..." Celestia frowned.

“Again, sorry…”

“But why don’t we leave that behind us for now,” Celestia suggested, “This is definitely not the place for such a story.”

"I concur," Luna blushed.

“Okay…” Both boys just sat there.

"Solaris, I assume the necklace is of your cutie mark?"

“Yes, it is. I figured it best fit with my name, so there you go.”

"I see, how did you get your cutie mark?"

“Oh that? Well, I learned that I could take the sun’s energy and convert it into energy. I just did it enough times to realize that this was what I was meant to do. When I went to take a shower, there it was.”

A thought of Solaris in the shower entered Solaris' mind. "Interesting, especially considering how I raise the sun, which is how I earned my cutie mark."

“I kinda figured that part.” Solaris immediately started feeling a little awkward after that statement. “Um…”

“What’s wrong?”

"Nothing..."

'Dobt you wonder HOW he figured that?' Luna asked telepathically.

‘Oh, ha ha,’ Celestia replied.

"Hey," Eclipse said, "I brought over some Sandwiches...would you like some?"

“That sounds wonderful," Celestia smiled. 'He cooks?'

“Like you wouldn’t believe,” Solaris said, “and yet I can’t get him to organize his room.”

'Hes perfect for you, since you can't and all.'

‘Oh shut up…’

‘You know it’s true, Lu-Lu...’

'Well...perhaps...but there's more to him than his cooking.'

‘Sure there is…'

'He's very attractive.'

‘And...’

‘And he has a great personality...’

‘And...’

“Those aren’t meteors.”

‘And...’ “Wait, what?”

“Take a look, these lights are too small to be meteors, and the angle is to low..."

“You’re right,” Eclipse noted. “Do you think…”

“We could be facing an invasion…”

******

Twilight sat down next to Comet. “Well...apparently everyone else was engrossed in other things, so it looks like we’ll have this hill to ourselves…”

"Apparently..."

“Yeah...But don’t try and make any moves on me.” Twilight teased.

"Believe me, I've already had enough of that excitement, and it wasn't even intentional."

“Yeah...Sorry again for making you look through all that, guess the bop on the head made me forget…”

“‘Bop on the head?’”

“Yeah, I was helping my friend Applejack on her farm, and I had a little accident with a tree branch,” Twilight brushed her hair back so she could show Comet the bandage on her forehead, “See?”

"Ah. Sorry that happened."

"You weren't involved, so it really wasn't necessary, but thank you though."

“Yeah. Anyway, I was thinking I- Ugh!”

“What’s wrong?”

“I forgot some stargazing books at home, I was going to bring them, and that notebook you gave me, tonight, but I guess I forgot them at home.”

"Oh. Well it's okay. You still have time before they're due."

“True, and maybe I could bring my telescope…”

“If you want to, I guess, I would have brought mine but it’s broken.”

“Oh...well I might be able to take a look at it, if you-” A sudden flash of light streaked across the sky. “What on earth? The meteor shower’s not supposed to start for another twenty minutes!”

The meteor flew to into a tree, only a few dozen yards from them!

“What in the world?!” Twilight was shocked it had come so close, by her (and Comet’s calculations) the meteors would all end up in uninhabited regions of Equestria, not a mile from Ponyville!

Comet froze, he had never been so close to a meteor, and there was a possibility it was dangerous...but at the same time...how many chances does one get to examine a meteor?

“Comet...Has this ever happened?”

“No, not that I know of at least.”

“What should we do?”

“I...don’t know, it’s not like there’s an interstellar police force or anything…”

“I’m sure there is in one of Spike’s comic books.”

“Yeah, to bad they can’t come out and help.”

“Yeah…”

All of the sudden, a shrill scream broke through the peaceful night. They both got up and ran towards the screech, which came from Ponyville. “Do you think there was another meteor,” Twilight asked.

“I don’t think so…But that one wasn’t supposed to land where we were.”

“Good point…this is really a wacked out day.”

“Agreed.”

*****

“Luna, are you sure about this,” Celestia asked, “Aliens don’t exist.”

“When you live on the moon for a few days, you begin to see things,” Luna replied

“But...Aliens?”

“Maybe they’re friendly,” Eclipse suggested.

“Or maybe they want our world,” Solaris commented. “We don’t know.

“I guess, but I think maybe we should go out there and investigate.”

“You won’t be going anywhere,” a voice said.”

“Funny, Solaris, but this is a lousy excuse for chickening out.”

“Um...That wasn’t me…” Solaris said. “There’s someone closeby.”

Suddenly, Eclipse felt a slight pain in his back. “Ow! Luna? Are you poking me with your horn again?”

“Eclipse, I’m right in front of you.”

“Then who did?” Eclipse turned around to see a very tall changeling, dressed in gold armor, with a large sword pointed at Eclipse. “Whoa! That’s a pretty big sword…”

“Yes it is, I could kill you all in one maneuver,” The stranger replied, “But I’m not here to kill you.”

“Then why are you here?”

“We’re here to rescue those who were taken from us.”

“Who was taken from you,” Celestia asked.

“My wife and her, in your terms, ‘adopted brother’, they were arrested for no reason and when I asked for their release, I was denied.”

“I see…What did the officers say their crime was.”

“Being an ‘enemy of the crown’, even though they had captured a Siyah spy attempting to conduct liebe on a young dragon against his will.”

“Liebe?”

“I believe your kind calls it, ‘sex’.”

“Oh. Can you describe this dragon?”

“I never saw him, but the two girls I spoke with kept calling him ‘Spike’.”

“I think I know him, but what would a changeling be doing in Ponyville, let alone three?”

“The two we were trying to rescue were pursuing the spy and the spy herself was a renegade from the Siyah.”

“The Siyah?”

“A rebellion, led by Chrysalis.”

“Chrysalis… You mean the one who invaded my niece’s wedding?”

“Yes, she’s currently locked up in Changeypt, where she won’t be a nuisance to anyone for a long, long time, but she does have remnants of her army scouring Equestria. That spy is just one of them.”

“I see, but nonetheless, why threaten us before explaining the incident?”

“I did not.”

“Oh, so that sword’s poke to my back was just your way of saying ‘Hi’,” Eclipse asked.

“I was merely ‘showing off’.”

“Seriously? Are big swords a ‘thing’ in your country?”

“No.”

“Then why did you-”

“Enough,” Celestia snapped. “Sir, I’m sorry that your wife and her...brother? Were taken to prison, I will try and do all I can, but it may be difficult considering I ordered all changelings to be brought to jail until further notice, and the attack at the wedding caused… bitter feelings…”

“I see; however, my patience will not hold for long. If they aren’t released soon, we will take matters into our own hands.”

“I understand...but know that we aren’t pushovers, either. We WILL fight back if we are attacked.”

“Then so be it.”

Chapter 16

Twilight watched the armored changelings as they all kept their focus on the captured ponies. There were a total of six, Twilight thought she could use her magic and fight them off, but some more appeared behind her. “Twilight…” Comet whispered.

“I know…” Twilight closed her eyes, and began to charge her horn.

They all looked at Twilight not knowing what she was up to. One of the changelings asked, "What are you doing?"

Twilight finally opened her eyes, and suddenly outstretched her arms, opened her palms, and a bolt of magic sent both changelings into the ground.

Everyone couldn’t believe their eyes! “YES,” Applebloom was heard yelling.

The other changelings saw their men down and rushed toward Twilight.

Twilight could feel them approaching, she whirled around and charged her magic again. "Stop!"

The changelings stopped at her warning.

Twilight put her hands down and discharged her magic. "If you move any further, I WILL kill you.” There was no way she would kill them, but she had the capabilities, and they didn't need to know.

The changelings started to point their weapons at her, but their ears perked up at a faint sound before they flew off.

Twilight stood down knowing that they all left.

“Wow Twilight," Scootaloo said, “I didn’t think that would scare them off.”

“It didn’t; something else summoned them. Most likely, it was their leader.”

"Chrysalis?!" Derpy cried out.

"N-no... at least I don't think so..." Twilight wasn't feeling sure, these could very well be Chrysalis, but at the same time, these changelings look… different, as if they were another race altogether.

Was Khai lying?

******

Next day....

“Hello? Dash?”

Rainbow Dash awoke to poking on her arm, along with the sound of an all too familiar voice. He opened her eyes groggily to see Gilda staring her in the face. ”Geez!" Dash exclaimed. "Why are you in my house?”

“I’m not in your house; you’re at the station.”

Rainbow Dash looked around and saw that Gilda was telling the truth; she was at the station. The question is, “How?”

"Y'all remember?" Applejack said, "We were meetin’ Gilda here?"

Rainbow glared at Applejack. “I know that, but how did I get here?”

"We walked, but by the time we got here ya conked out." Rainbow suddenly noticed something Applejack was holding. "What is that?"

"'That," Gilda spoke up, "Is Garuda, my baby."

He took a good look at Gilda. The first thing to come out of her mouth was, “He looks so cute… Are you sure you didn’t steal him?”

“I think I have the stretch marks to prove it…”

"Well...that was something I didn't need to know..." Rainbow muttered.

“You didn’t believe me, so I figured you would want proof.”

Applejack decided to interject, "How bout we go to Sugarcube Corner and talk about all this?"

“Okay. Oh and do you know where I can get some baby formula?”

"Ah reckon the grocery store by Rarity's place has some, we can getcha some there."

"We can?" Rainbow asked.

"Yes we can."

“And if they recognize me?” Gilda questioned.

“Then they’ll have to deal with me. Besides, look at that little face, I know they can’t resist a baby.” Applejack reassured her.

Gilda looked at Garuda. She had to admit, he was pretty cute, even if she did say so herself. "Okay...thank you."

“Don’t mention it, but if you try to do anything funny, I’ll snatch that baby and buck you into the next year.”

"Okay, but if you do anything to my baby, I'll have to rip off a limb or two, and trust me, it can happen."

“Trust me, he’d be in safer hands.”

“Good…”

“ANYWAY, let’s go see if we can find some milk, and I’m gonna guess diapers,” Rainbow Dash said.

“Yeah… that one I wasn’t so fortunate on either,” Gilda pointed out.

“Okay… Just don’t change it in public.”

“Right…”

*****

“TWILIGHT! TWILIGHT! TWILIGHT! TWILIGHT!” Pinkie shouted as she hopped into the library.

Twilight was looking at a book on changelings. “What is it Pinkie?”

“Do you remember that meanie pants, Gilda?”

“How could I forget?”

"I know right? She hurt Fluttershy's feelings and kept acting like a jerk and-"

"Okay, Pinkie, I remember. But why are you bringing her up?"

"Cuz I just saw her at the train station with Applejack and Rainbow Dash!"

"Really? What's she doing back here?"

“I don’t know, but if must have something to do with that baby she’s holding.”

“Baby?”

“Yeah, she was walking around with this baby.”

"Hmm... That's strange..."

"What is?"

"If the baby's hers, who in their right mind would want to be in a relationship with Gilda? Unless...

“Unless what?" Pinkie gasped, "She stole it!"

"Possibly, or maybe she didn’t intend on having that baby.”

"Whadda ya mean? Can't you choose when to have a baby?"

“Well… I really don’t want to say this, ever, but shou could have spent a night with someone and she happened to have the right conditions to have one.”

Pinkie gasped again, "So you can get a baby from sleepovers?!"

“Trust me, it wasn’t a casual sleepover.”

"Oh... They must’ve really had a good MERF fight!"

“MERF?”

"Yeah! You know those cool toy guns that fire those squishy darts?"

“Oh… No. It’s… Oh forget it!”

"Okey dokey lokey! So why am I here?"

“You were telling me that Gilda is here.”

"But I thought you told me to forget it?"

"No I meant- Ugh! Did you see where they were going?"

"They said the grocery store."

“Oh, okay. Did you warn Fluttershy and Rarity, along with every other pony in Ponyville?”

"Well duh! You were the last one!"

“Okay. After that last episode, there’s no telling what she’d do now.”

"Yeah. I better make sure the Cakes are alright! They had this humongo order and might need my help!" With that Pinkie bolted out the door, "See ya Twi!"

“Um… Okay, see ya later…” Twilight went back to her book, but…

“What was that all about.”

Twilight looked at Spike who was just now entering the room. “Oh, hey Spike. I see you finally decided to join the living.”

Spike just responded with a fake laugh.

“Anyway, guess who’s back in Ponyville…”

“Um… Trixie?”

"Nope, bigger."

"Chrysalis?!”

“Too big.”

“Can I get a hint?”

“She used to be Rainbow Dash’s friend.

“Um… Oh, what was her name. She was a griffon right?”

“Yes…”

“Let’s see…” Spike thought for a few minutes before… “Gilda?”

“Right, she’s back, and this time with a baby.”

“Gilda with a baby? Who in their right mind would want to be with her?”

“That’s what I said.”

"Maybe she kidnapped it?"

“It is possible.”

“Or maybe she… You know… Same thing that happened to me?”

“Again, possible. We don’t know until we look at her records.”

"But how could you get her records? Wouldn't they be… wherever she moved to?"

“Yes, so I’ll have to call Griffopolis’s city hall and make a public records request.”

"Or you could ask her."

“If she did rape someone, do you really think she’d admit to it?”

"If she raped someone, would she even keep it?"

“Hm… Good point, but I’m gonna call them just in case.”

"Okay, I think I'll head over to Sweet Apple Acres, Applebloom said she got a new ARMO set and she said she wanted to build it with me."

“Oh, well go ahead.” Then it hit Twilight. “Spike, before you go, there’s something you need to know.”

"What?"

“Some Changelings raided the meteor shower.”

"What?! Are you okay?!"

“Yes, but there are two reasons why I brought that up. One, it might happen again; two, Applebloom was there when it happened.”

"Y-you don't think Applebloom is a-"

"No, but she and her friends happened to be there at the wrong place at the wrong time.”

"Oh...do you think she'll be upset if I go?"

“What do you mean?”

"I'm a dragon, and it might scare her...not to mention my...incident.."

“Spike, when was the last time you were with her?”

“Last night when we were building the Star Decimator.”

“And did she react negatively?”

“No…”

“Then don’t worry about it, but you might also want to tell her about your wings.”

"Oh?"

"Well, it's sorta similar to a cutie mark, so it might help her."

“Oh, okay.”

"And Spike?"

"Yeah?"

"Remember, I love you."

“I love you too, Twilight.”

*****

Gilda, Rainbow Dash, and Applejack were in the grocery store trying to find diapers and formula, unfortunately it was proving to be a difficult task, since, well, ponies weren't as large as griffons, so finding the correct size was hard.

“And yer sure nopony would sell them to ya,” Applejack asked.

“I’m sure,” Gilda answered, “But I wish I knew how the sizes translate to griffons. I’m getting dizzy just looking at them.”

“No kiddin’,” Rainbow commented. “Wish Twilight were here; she’d know.”

“Think you should go get her,” Applejack asked.

“Maybe, but she probably got her nose in some book right now.”

“True, I mean, there was that changeling invasion.”

“Wait, what?!”

"Yeah, 'Bloom told me ‘bout it, but Twilight scared em off."

“Twilight? Scaring off Changelings?”

“Technically, something recalled them,” Twilight said from behind, “but I did threaten them.”

"Really? You threaten?"

"Yes, it was the only thing I could think of at the time..."

“Well, they were intimidatin’ the kids.”

“Yeah…”

"So...what's a changeling?" Gilda asked.

They all looked at Gilda. “Well, you know what a pony looks like, right Gilda,” Rainbow asked.

“I’m lookin’ at three now, so I should.”

“Well, changelings are basically that with insect features and they can change into different people.”

"So, there were some runnin’ around last night?”

“Apparently. Oh, and Twilight, do you know which size diaper would be good for a baby griffon?”

“Oh. Um… I don’t know,” Twilight said, “Where is the baby, maybe I could determine what size it needs from there.”

"He's right here," Applejack handed the small bundle to Twilight.

“Aw… He’s so cute. Are you sure you didn’t steal him?”

“Why does everyone keep asking me that,” Gilda asked. She reached into her bag and pulled out a birth certificate. Twilight looked at it and found that Gilda is definitely the baby’s mother.

“Garuda, huh? Pretty strong name for a little guy.”

"He got me through a lot; he needed a strong name."

"Oh..."

"Yeah, put me through a lot, though. But it was worth it."

"Well, weren't you gonna explain everything over at Sugarcube Corner?" Applejack asked.

“Well, that was so I’d get that question out of the way.”

"Ah."

"Gettin hungry AJ?" Rainbow asked.

“I am actually, but we still need to-” Applejack stopped after she saw Twilight levitating the package of diapers with her magic.

“Will this much do,” Twilight asked.

"How on earth did you-"

"Well, I did raise a baby dragon. A baby griffon’s around the same size."

"Wow...thanks Twilight..." For the first time in Gilda's life, she was speechless.

"But, promise me you'll take care of Garuda?"

“Uh...of course I will...I just…”

“I have had a little taste of motherhood with Spike, so I know how hard it is.”

“You do?”

“Yeah, he recently reached puberty. Long story short, it went a little out of proportion when I thought he was just turning away from me, but it turned out that he was just growing up. But it didn’t exactly help when a changeling assaulted him sometime after.”

“Wait, what?”

“Yeah, I can’t really go into detail as to WHAT happened, but… I did learn that as a result of his puberty, he’s now growing wings.”

“Wait, growing wings?”

“Yeah, he complained about his back hurting and I saw those two bumps. I later did some research and there it was in black and white.”

“Wow… So when will they stop growing?”

“In about a month.”

"Need someone to teach him flying?" Rainbow asked.

“Oh yes,” Twilight said. “Too bad Garuda won’t be able to fly by the time Spike’s wings grow; he might get a wingmate.”

“By the way, where is Spike,” Applejack asked.

“Oh, he’s at Sweet Apple Acres with Applebloom, or at least he’s on his way there now.”

“Oh yeah, Bloom said she had had some fun puttin a model set...or somethin’...”

“ARMO? Yeah, Spike loves those.”

“Okay, what in the world is ARMO,” Gilda asked.

“They’re these building sets that use bricks that connect...kinda hard to explain to be honest… Shining or Spike could do a better job.”

“Oh…”

“So, are we goin’ or what,” Rainbow asked.

“Oh, yes. We just need to pay for the diapers,” Twilight said.

“And the formula,” Applejack added.

*****

Spike knocked on the door to the Apples’ house. After waiting a few moments Big Mac came to the door. “Hello?”

“Howdy,” Big Mac said.

“Um...is Applebloom here?”

“Eeyup.”

“Oh, okay, may I see her?”

“Eeyup. She’s in her room.”

Spike entered the house, but then something occurred  to him, “Uh, where is her room?”

But before Big Mac could answer, Applebloom came in. “Howdy Spike! Glad ya came!”

“Yeah, me too. So what’s the new set you got?”

“I’ll show ya in my room,” Applebloom led Spike into her room, which was next door to Applejack’s. The first thing Spike saw was her collection of ARMO sets. “Wow! You have a lot!”

“Thanks,” Applebloom blushed, then went behind the chest of drawers and pulled out a small box.

Spike raised an eyebrow, “That’s it? An AT-E1? You can build those in your sleep/”

“Hey!” Applebloom placed the set on the top of her drawers and placed her hands on her hips, “I happen to love this little guy, this is like my fifth one...But…” Applebloom reached under her bed and pulled out-

“AN AT-AS AND CARRIER?!?!?!?!?”

“Oh yeah…”

“Wow! You get a nice allowance!”

“Well… I’ve been saving since last Cider season, but I did buy a few other things since then, like a couple AT-E1s, but it definitely wasn’t easy.”

“Wow… I can really help you with this?”

“Uh-huh, if you want to…”

“Yeah I do!”

Applebloom grinned, “Well then, let’s get to work,” She grabbed the AT-E1 set and had opened it up.

“Seriously?!”

“Well, we might as well get this out of the way.”

“Yeah, let’s.”

They both got on their knees and got to work.

*****

Applejack held open the door for the other girls and the baby. “Thanks, AJ,” Twilight grinned.

“Sure, Sugarcube.”

The girls walked to one of the four-chair tables and everyone except Rainbow Dash sat down. “So what does everyone want?”

“I think I would like a bran muffin,” Twilight said.

Everyone looked at her.

“What? Haven’t been feeling regular lately.”

Applejack raised her eyebrow, “Whadda ya mean? ‘Not feelin’ regular’?”

“It’s nothing I can say at the table, or in public for that matter,” Twilight blushed.

“Uh...okay… What about you two?” Dash looked to Gilda and AJ.

“I’d like some cherry pie.”

Now Applejack was getting the odd looks.

“What? Girl can’t eat everything apple.”

“Okay...Gilda?”

Gilda had to ask, “Got anything with protein?”

“Well, there’s always milk, but… Hm… Hang on, I’ll go check.” Rainbow left the four to meet with Mrs. Cake at the front counter. “Hey, uh, Mrs. Cake, do you have anything that has protein.”

“Well, there’s always milk,” she joked.

Dash faked a laugh.

“But we do have milkshakes and smoothies.”

“Oh, okay, I’ll be right back.” Rainbow went back to Gilda, “They have smoothies and milkshakes.”

“Um… I think the smoothie would be the better option. Just don’t get me anything with coconuts. I don’t why, but it never seems to taste right with me.”

“Okay…” Rainbow went back to the counter.

"Have you made your decision?" Mrs Cake asked.

“We have. We would like a cherry pie, a bran muffin, a strawberrry banana smoothie, and a slice of lemon cake."

"Okay, I'll get that right out."

"Thanks," Rainbow reached into her pocket and pulled out some money, "Here ya go."

"Thank you."

Once Mrs. Cake gave Rainbow Dash the food, Dash walked back to the table. “Okay, here you are ladies. One bran muffin, one cherry pie, and one strawberry banana smoothie.”

"Thanks, Dash." Twilight smiled before taking her bran muffin.

"Yeah, thanks, Sugarcube." Applejack took her pie.

Gilda stared at her smoothie. “This isn’t going to drip on my shirt, right?”

“Nope.”

“Or make me breath fire…?”

“Nope.”

“Anything I do need to know?”

“Nope.”

“Okay…” She took her smoothie and took a sip. She shrugged it off. “Thanks.”

"Yeah."  Rainbow sat down and dug into her cake.

“Was her askin’ about the drink really necessary,” Applejack whispered to Rainbow.

Rainbow whispered back, “Well, in her defense, she did set off every single prank the last time she was here…”

“You do know I can hear you, right,” Gilda remarked.

"Well ya did." Applejack pointed out.

“Yeah… By the way, which pranks were meant for me?”

“Only two: the candles and the presents,” Rainbow answered, “The rest were fair game.”

"I see," Gilda took another sip of her drink. She turned to Twilight, "Like your bran muffin?"

“Huh?”

"Your muffin, you like it?"

“Not really, but what else could I eat? I need more fiber.”

“And probably a toilet,” Dash murmured. Then… “Ah, regular… I get it.”

Twilight's cheeks turned red, "Yeah..."

"Do you need to talk to a doctor?" Applejack asked.

“No, I think this should help.”

“Alright…”

"Okay, Gilda, I'm afraid I've gotta ask, how did you get a baby?" Rainbow asked.

“I don’t want talk about it.”

"Well, fine...but...could you at least tell us who the father is?"

Gilda thought about it for a minute, then… “His ‘father’ is a spoiled prince.”

"Blueblood’s?" Rainbow teased.

“Who’s he?”

"Princess Celestia's nephew, he's a real brat."

“Oh… No.”

"Griffon Prince?"

“Garuda wouldn’t have been a full griffon if it were anything else.”

"I was just kidding."

“Anyway, we hooked up because… well… I was a little desperate for money.”

"I thought your parents were well off, couldn't they help?"

“After what they heard about here, they didn’t want anything to with me.”

“Oh. Please continue.”

“Well, after that night, he paid me, but a week later, I found out that I… well…” She looks at Garuda.

“How'd the dad take it?"

“Wanted nothing to do with him, especially since…” She pulls out a magazine and points to the cover, “News got out that he spent the night with some ‘peasant’.”

“Ouch…”

“So yeah, nobody wanted to have anything to do with the griffon who… Disgraced? Would that be the right word?”

“Yeah.”

“Disgraced the prince. I had to deliver Garuda in a cardboard box.”

The three girls stayed silent.

“What? It was either that or in the middle of the sidewalk. But someone eventually found me just as I finished and he took me to a hospital.”

"Well, that's good." Rainbow said.

"Have your parents found out," Applejack asked.

“They moved before I could tell them.”

"Are you going to?"

“Why should I? They already kicked me out. Imagine what would happen if I told them I had a baby out of wedlock.”

"But they are your parents, and his grandparents." Twilight said.

“Trust me, it wouldn’t work that way. Even if I did want to tell them, where would I find them?”

“And I guess that added to the frustration, because you DID punch a random pony.”

“Wait, what,” Twilight asked.

“Yeah, this pony came up to me and said some stuff about me and my baby, stuff that I wouldn’t expect to hear coming out of her mouth.”

"So...you did it for Garuda?"

“Well, it went on for a week before I did it, but yeah…”

“Why didn’t you just report her? What she was doing was harassment, something she could be charged with.”

“What did you think I was trying to do? They didn’t want anything to do with me.”

“And that’s when you got three months of jail time…”

“Yeah… But looking back, I did deserve it,  I couldn’t see Garuda for three months, I was put in a cell, and… well… everyone couldn’t stand me as it was. All of that made up for what I did to you guys.”

“Maybe, but Garuda deserve any of that?”

"No...and...sometimes I think I don't...deserve him. Like I'm a bad mother."

"Well, you were willing to protect him...kinda..."

“And you did keep him after he was born. On top of all that, he’s still here,” Rainbow Dash pointed out, “So you must be doing something right.”

"I guess, it's just he's all I have, and I don't want to treat him badly."

“Well, you won’t have to go through this alone. I mean, we’re no spoiled prince, but at least it’ll get you somewhere.”

"You'd help me?"

“Yeah, I’ll even let you sleep at my place until we get you back on your feet.”

“I can’t, Where would you sleep?”

“I could always the couch.”

"But after everything I did?"

“After what you’ve been through, I’d say ‘Enough’s enough’.”

“I don’t know…”

“Don’t make me kidnap you.”

“Alright! Just stop doing that.”

"Doing what?”

“Pressuring me to stay at your house.”

“You gave me no choice.”

"Well, I guess I'll stay with ya..."

“Good."

Chapter 17

Lyra lay on the prison cot, looking up at the ceiling, “I hope Khai isn’t overreacting.”

“What would ‘overreacting’ be,” Caramel asked.

“Sending his army to overtake the village.”

“Oh...explains the news report last night…”

“Wait, news report?”

“While you were asleep last night, they mentioned that some Changelings went after some people trying to enjoy the meteor shower.”

“Ugh...Khai, why do you do this to me?”

“Beats me, you married him.”

“Well, as soon as I get my hands on him…” She flagged over an officer. “Sir, could I borrow a newspaper?”

“I guess...hold on…” The officer went back down the hall, then came back shortly with a newspaper, “Here ya go.”

She looked at the article. Once she read that Khai “threatened” the princesses, she was ready to go into a rage. “WHY THAT LITTLE….” She handed the paper back to the officer before shouting in unintelligible gibberish before punching the nearest wall.

“Did he do something else?” Caramel asked.

“He threatened the princesses.”

“Oh...well, that could be bad…” The officer said, but Lyra hardly noticed.

“Yeah, especially since he wanted PEACE with the Equestrians, not WAR!”

“Well, maybe the newspaper exaggerated, and Khai was negotiating with them.” Caramel thought aloud.

“Oh no, I know my husband! He DEFINITELY is going to try to start a war. Add to that the fact we haven’t seen each other in YEARS…”

“You gotta keep an open mind…” the officer said.

Caramel and Lyra shot him a glare and said in unison, “You’re one to talk!”

"Hey! I didn't throw you in here. Still, be thankful you still have someone, my wife left me and took our kids with her." The police officer shrugged.

“Oh. Sorry to hear that,” Caramel said, “Mine was killed.”

“How?”

“I don’t want to talk about it.”

“Alright…”

"What is he thinking," Lyra wondered aloud.

******

Khai looked at the paper. When he saw the word “threatened,” he was tempted to go into a new level of rage. ‘The media just want to sell more satisfying stories at our expense…’

Khai, in his disguised form, sat at a table in a restaurant. He was trying his best to continue his daily routine of reading the newspaper while drinking some coffee, but he continued going back to the front page.

At least the coffee was good.

Khai's mind began to wander back to Urbi. It had been ages since he last saw her. And the small hug they had shared yesterday didn't satisfy his hunger for her love. He wanted to hold her and never let go, but now she was in prison for a crime she hadn't committed. And he was being accused of threatening two Princesses. Sure, he and his people were changelings, but are ponies the real liars in this world?

Khai closed his eyes and thought for a bit, perhaps peace with these people was a lost cause, if they only knew the cold, evil Siyah, then there was no point. The Equestrians were like all the others; Prejudice.

Or maybe not… He looked up and saw a familiar blue pegasus with… a griffon?

Griffons were generally a despised race, even by the Changelings, why would-

Khai chuckled, 'I guess prejudice is easier than I thought.'

He folded up his paper and walked over to the two. "Good morning, ladies," He greeted.

Rainbow and Gilda looked at Khai. "Good morning...uh...Khai?" Rainbow (sort of) greeted, “What brings you here?”

"Just having breakfast. What are you two doing?"

"We're going back to my place to get Gilda's kid fed."

"I see, well, I was enjoying my breakfast when I read in the paper that I ‘threatened’ two princesses when I was going there to negotiate with them.”

“Oh, I don’t normally read the paper, so I didn’t know about that, until now at least. Speaking of which, why were changelings holding some ponies hostage?”

"They weren't 'held hostage' I wanted to warn them."

"Really? That's how you 'warn' someone?"

"How else should I?"

"Uh, I dunno, maybe gather everyone up and THEN warn them?"

“She’s got a point,” Gilda pointed out.

“Thank you, but this doesn’t concern you right now.”

“Oh it does. For one thing, I am standing here, aren’t I?”

“Yes… but…”

“And you are one of my friends…”

“Yeah… Bu-”

“Then every bit of this concerns me.”

"But you didn't help his wife and her...buddy."

"You mean Qrong," Khai asked.

"Who," Dash asked.

"Qrong, the man with Urbi."

"You mean Caramel?"

"Is that what he goes by here? Then I suppose it is."

“You helped him, didn’t you?” Gilda asked.

“Yeah…”

"You'll have to explain all this when we get to your place, you know that, right?"

“Oh yeah…”

Suddenly, a small voice began grunting.

"Hey Dash? Can we go...now? Garuda's starting to get busy..."

"Oh boy.... Okay, we better go," but before they left, Rainbow shot Khai a glare, "But we aren't finished talking about this."

"Fine by me."

*****

Spike and Applebloom were halfway done with the set. It was starting to get tiring, though, so Spike suggested, "Maybe we should take a break for a bit?"

“Alright. Looks good so far. Wanna snack?"

"Sure."

Applebloom and Spike were about to go into the kitchen, but. "I can get us something, Spike, what do you want?"

"Uh...I just want a soda, but I can get it."

"Ya sure?"

"Yeah...I kinda like having it in a cup with ice then in a can... It makes it taste better for some reason."

"Oh! Glad I'm not the only one."

"Really? I thought it was just me and Twi."

"Twi does, too?

“Oh yeah. Who do you think got me to?"

“Ah.”

“Oh and there’s one thing I need to tell you.”

“What’s that?”

“I’m going to get my wings.”

“Wait, what?”

“I found out last night that my wings are growing.”

"Wow! When will they be fully grown?"

“About a month.”

"Cool! Maybe I'll get my cutie mark by then!"

“I hope so.”

"Me too."

“So...if you want I can get the sodas for us...if you want one that is.”

“It’s alright, I can get it.”

“Alright.”

Both kids went into the kitchen and Applebloom pulled out two cans of soda from the fridge and gave it to Spike. Spike grabbed a cup from the cupboard and poured the soft drink in, with Applebloom doing the same. Once they had finished getting their drinks, they went back to Applebloom’s room.

“So...have you heard about what happened last night?” Applebloom asked.

“You mean the invasion? Yeah, Twilight told me.”

“Really? Did she tell you she took two of ‘em out?”

“What?!”

“Uh-huh! She used her magic and knocked ‘em both into next week!”

“Wow… Guess I shouldn’t be too surprised, she is very powerful, but I never would’ve imagined her using it to hurt someone.”

“Yeah, she even threatened them!”

“WHAT?!?!?!”

“Yup, she even said ‘If you move any further, I WILL kill you’.”

Spike stared at Applebloom, “Are you sure that was Twilight Sparkle? The librarian? The pony who’s been raising me since I hatched?”

“Yep.”

“Wow...I’ll have to talk with her about it when I see her.”

“Okay…”

“Did you enjoy what you saw of the meteor shower?”

“Yeah...it was okay, kinda wished you were there.”

“Really?”

“Yeah, you’re a fun guy, Spike.”

Spike blushed, “Thanks...I kinda wished I had gone, too.”

“Why didn’t you?”

“I had too much going on.”

“Oh...are you and Rarity still datin’?”

“No...something hap- wait, how’d you know about that?”

“Sweetie Belle.”

“Oh, well, anyway, I’m not… Not anymore.”

“How come?”

“Um...can we talk about it in your room, it’s kinda personal…”

“Oh...sure Spike, but you don’t have to tell me if you don’t want to.”

“No, I do, but privately.”

“Oh, okay…”

They both went into Applebloom’s room, and she closed the door.

“Okay...so first off, the Rarity I thought was Rarity, wasn’t the real Rarity.”

“Huh?”

“A Changeling had given the real Rarity to the Diamond Dogs, and she pretended to be Rarity...and she tried to force me into…” Spike cleared his throat, this really felt awkward, “She tried to have…intercourse with me…”

Applebloom’s curious expression turned to one of sadness, “Oh Spike, I’m sorry…”

“Thanks...it...really scared me, which kinda sounds stupid coming from a dragon.”

“No it doesn’t,” Applebloom gave Spike the biggest hug she could give, “Everyone gets scared, Spike. Heck, I know all of AJ and Big Mac’s fears.”

“Oh?”

“Yup,” Applebloom whispered in Spike’s ear.

“Really?!”

“Yup, just don’t tell anyone, okay?”

“Okay.” He groaned in pain.

“Spike?”

“I’m fine. It’s just the wings. I just need to lay down.”

“Oh, okay.” Applebloom cleared a few of her things off her bed, “You can lay there.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes! Just...please lay down?”

“Okay…” Spike did as he was told and laid on his stomach, exhaling blissfully, “Thanks.”

“You’re welcome.”

Spike closed his eyes, and hugged the pillow. He lay there for a few moments before sitting up, “I should probably get home, Twilight might begin to worry. Sorry we couldn’t finish the set.”

“It’s okay, it’ll still be here waiting for ya.”

“Thanks...you’re a good friend Applebloom.”

Applebloom blushed, “Well...so are you…”

“Thanks.”

"Don't mention it."

******

Luna walked over to her bed and pulled the covers. She was preparing to go to bed, but there was a knock at the door. Luna’s eyes widened as she hastily rushed to get her bathrobe from the bathroom. She slipped it on and went back to the door. She opened it and saw a very angry Celestia, wearing a yellow T-shirt, jeans, and tennis shoes.

“Hello my sister,” Luna greeted, “What is the matter?”

“I heard from Twilight that some changelings attacked Ponyville.”

“Oh?”

“Yes, and I might have prevented it, had it not been for a certain ‘Monopony’ tournament,” She glared at Luna.

“...I just thought it might be a good idea to wind down after the threat, are you still upset you lost, big sister?” Luna smirked.

“Luna, someone could have been killed, in fact, Twilight had to fight them off herself.”

“I see...well, I’m sorry, Tia, would you forgive me?”

“Yes...but I still have to talk to that Khai fellow. If he thinks he can do that to us without any retaliation, he is bitterly mistaken.”

“Tia, are you sure this is a good idea. It could have been a misunderstanding.”

“Twilight told me these weren’t normal changelings, and they seemed to look very similar to Khai.”

“Maybe a mix-up in orders?”

“Some mix up! But I’ll still have to talk to him.”

“Alright…”

“Do you want to go with me?”

“Might be a good idea… Just let me put on something more…” She looks down at herself in her bathrobe before looking back at Celestia. “Presentable.”

“Good idea...though...you would make a good distraction to throw him off his-”

“No! And besides, he’s married.”

“Yeah, the wife wouldn’t be too happy.

"And neither would I. Now it you’ll excuse me." Luna closed the door and hastily looked through her closet.

"Would you like some help, Lu-Lu?"

“No, I think I know what I want. I just need to find it.”

"Okay, I'll see you out in the garage."

"Very we-garage?"

*****

Luna's heels echoed in the underground garage. "Tia?"

"Over here Luna."

Luna followed the sound of her sister's voice to a white Mercedes. "Are you sure you remember how to drive?"

"Of course I do. Besides, it's been, what, ten years since I last drove."

"Well THAT's reassuring..."

"Well, when's the last time you drove?"

"Last week." Luna smirked.

"For your driver's test?"

Luna fell silent.

“I’ll take that as a yes. Okay, let’s go.” Celestia pulled out her keys from her pocket, and put it in the ignition. Then turned it to bring the car to life. She put her foot on the accelerator and the car- revved its engine. It didn’t move an inch.

“Wouldn’t revving the engine like that waste gasoline?”

“Well, yes, but this IS how to make them move.”

“Does that stick have anything to do with it?”

Celestia looked at the gear shift to see that it was set to park. “Oh. Yes it does.” She shifted it to first, then put her foot on the accelerator. The car barreled forward, it scared the two princesses and Celestia planted her foot on the brakes. The car instantly pulled to a stop, jolting both Celestia and Luna forward.

“Do you want me to drive,” Luna asked.

“N-no, I can do this,” Celestia inhaled deeply and SLOWLY put her foot on the accelerator.

Chapter 18

Twilight returned to the library and was reorganizing the library. She placed one of the dragon books she had gotten out last night and put it with the rest of the dragon books. She looked back to the diminishing pile of books and sighed, she still didn’t feel one-hundred percent, but these books weren’t going to stack themselves. It had crossed her mind to let Spike do it, but she knew it’d be hard for him to recover, so she didn’t follow through on that idea.

She was about to get a few more books, but she heard the phone ring. She rushed over to the phone and picked it up, “Ponyville Library, Twilight Sparkle speaking.”

“Hey, Twilight.”

Twilight’s eyes grew big, “MINTY?!”

“Yup… Hope you don’t mind I called you at work.”

“It’s fine, this is also kinda my home, so don’t worry ‘bout it.”

“Oh, okay. So how is my big sis doing?”

“Could be better, I guess.”

“Oh...did I catch you at a bad time?”

“No, I’m glad you called, we haven’t talked since Shining’s wedding.”

“Yeah...it has been a while, and...five years before that?”

“I guess...I think it was one of your birthday parties?”

“Oh yeah! It was my thirteenth birthday!”

“Yeah...wow, are you really eighteen?”

“Two months. I’m kinda nervous about it, though.”

“How come?”

“Well...I’ll have school done in the summer, and...I have no idea what I want to do with my life…”

“I see, do you think you might want to go to school?”

“Maybe, but still, what should I get my degree in? I really enjoy cooking, but I kinda wanna be a writer like mom, and don’t even get me started on what Dad does, that’d be EPIC!”

“I thought you said at your party you wanted to be a race car driver.”

“Oh yeah...that would be cool, but I’d also kinda like to be an airplane pilot. Ooh! Or maybe a royal gu….ugh!”

Twilight giggled, “Well, I’m sure you’ll figure something out.”

“Maybe...it’s just...eh...maybe I’ll tell you some other time.”

“What is it?”

“I-I’d just rather not tell you while Mom and Dad are around.”

“Uh...okay… Is there a reason?”

“Um...I’m a little worried they’ll worry about me…”

“Okay…”

“Yeah, I don’t want them to worry about me.”

“Alright. Oh, and how’s your sock collection?”

“Oh, it’s great! Taking up a lot of room, though, and kinda gets stinky if I don’t wash them, heh.”

“I would imagine,” Twilight giggled.

“So how’s Spike doing?”

“You’ll never guess what just happened.”

“What?”

“Well two things. One, his wings are growing!”

“Really?! Spike’s gonna be able to fly?!”

“Yes he will, well once he learns.”

“Awesome! Is your friend gonna teach him? The tomboy?”

“Rainbow Dash? Of course she will.”

“Yeah, her. Doubt the shy one would.”

“Fluttershy? Yeah…”

“Yeah, doubt it...So what was the other thing that happened with Spike?”

“Oh… That. Well… He…” She sighed. “A changeling tried to rape him.”

“WHAT?!?!” That exclamation was followed by the sound of a phone falling onto the floor.

“Minty? Are you there?”

“Yeah, I just dropped the phone.”

“Oh...Well, fortunately nothing happened between them, but the changeling was disguised as his crush.”

“Oh, that white unicorn girl? With the pink and purple hair?”

“Pink and purple? Where did you get pink?”

“That was what she looked like, saw them dancing together. Though...kinda seemed young…”

“Oh, wrong pony. There was one that was older and had a solid purple mane. That was Rarity.”

“Oh! Wait, wasn't she one of your friends?”

“Yes…”

“Wow...that sounds like all kinds of awkward.”

“More than you’d know, but after the incident, Spike doesn’t want to go out with her anymore, even though the changeling was to blame.”

“Well...I can certainly understand…”

“But… that’s not to say he won’t find someone else…”

“Oh...hope he does.”

“Yeah. Hey, weren’t you dating someone?”

“Um...yeah...we broke up a couple months ago…”

“Why? You were so cute together.”

“Well...he just...it was nothing.”

“Minty…”

Minty sighed, “It was kinda because I’m an earth pony…”

Blood began to boil in Twilight’s veins. “He broke up with you, just because you’re an Earth pony?”

“That plus… I don’t live up to you or Shining.”

“What do you mean?”

“Well...Shining’s the captain of the guard AND a prince, and you’ve saved Equestria several times and are the personal student of Princess Celestia, and I’m just...Minty… The pony who’s obsessed with socks and anything green.”

“Well, maybe it’s a good thing you broke up; if he only cares about your status, then he’s not the one for you.”

“Thanks...it’s just...we’d been dating for eight months and...well, part of me wonders if it wasn’t really him that wanted to break up with me.”

“What do you mean?”

“Well… I later found out that his dad was part of the Unicorn Supremacy group.”

“WHAT?!?!” Now it was Twilight’s turn to drop the phone. She fumbled to pick it up. “Sorry about that. I just dropped the phone.”

"Heh, guess its a family thing."

"I guess... But is his dad REALLY a member of the USG?"

“Yeah…”

Twilight rubbed her temples, "Now I'm really glad you aren't seeing him anymore."

"That makes one of us..."

“What do you mean?”

"I still really miss him..."

“Why? He broke up with you because of your race.”

“I know, but he was my first boyfriend.”

"There are other guys out there, guys who don't have relations to the USG."

“I know, but still…”

"Minty, if he truly cared about you, then he wouldn't follow his dad's bad example."

“I know, but I’m just not ready to let go, not yet.”

"I understand...but don't get your hopes up."

"Ok. Just let me grieve for a bit.”

"Okay... But remember, Minty, I love you."

"Love you too, Twi...but...do you think I could come to your place and stay over for the weekend?"

"You don't have to ask, of course you can."

“Okay. It’s been too long since I’ve last seen you.”

“Hey, I wouldn’t mind if you came right now. I’m not really planning anything. You might even get to meet Comet Tail.”

“Who?”

“Oh… Um… Just someone I really like…”

"Whoa! YOU have a boyfriend?!"

“Well… not exactly. I just have a crush on him, but we did watch the meteor shower together.”

"Wow! How does he feel about you?"

"I THINK he likes me back...but I'm not sure..."

“How would you be able to tell?”

"I can't...but Spike said he does, and he was super helpful yesterday."

"Hmm...guess that's something, is he cute?"

“Very. But it was pretty embarrassing when Spike got revenge on us for doing something that led up to the discovery of his wings.”

“Uh oh. What was it?”

"Um...our horns kinda changed colors…”

Minty tried to resist a laugh, but her efforts failed. “A little too soon, isn’t it?”

“We didn’t mean for that to happen.”

"Yeah...sure..."

“Really!”

“Barks the guilty dog.”

"It was just a reaction, okay?"

"So is barking..."

Twilight didn’t even bother. “Nevermind…”

"So...mind if I come over tonight? Since tomorrows a holiday before the weekend."

“Sure.”

"Neat, I wanna see you two shoot fireworks again."

“Um… That’s not going to happen if you mean what I think you mean.”

"Huh? Oh! No, I just meant you two flirting and stuff, not THAT deep."

“Oh, I thought you were talking about the horns lighting up.”

“Hm…”

Realizing what she just did, Twilight quickly hung up before Minty could say another word.

*****

Gilda set Garuda down on the couch in a sitting position next to her. “Doin’ okay, sweetie,” Gilda asked in a babyish tone.

“Abuga!” Garuda answered excitedly.

Gilda grinned and pulled the baby into a hug, “Your mama loves you!”

“Bwama!”

“Okay, Garuda, momma’s gotta put ya down, it’s our nap time.”

Upon hearing "nap," Garuda frowned.

"Now don't give me that look. You want to grow up big and strong, don't you?"

Garuda blew a raspberry.

Rainbow Dash tried to hold back a laugh.

“Oh...so we’re gonna play THAT game…” Gilda approached Garuda slowly, and before he could react, Gilda tickled Garuda’s belly. The baby burst into a fit of giggles.

In a swift motion Gilda scooped Garuda up. “Say ‘bye-bye’ to Rainbow.”

“Bwye Bwye.”

Rainbow grinned, 'Wow, he's ADORABLE.'

Just as Gilda walked into Rainbow’s room, there was a knock at the door. “I’ll be there in a second.” She turned to Gilda. “You two enjoy your n-a-p. I got this.”

"Okay, thanks, Dash."

“No problem.” She walked to the door and opened the door. “Oh, hey there Fluttershy.”

"Hello Rainbow Dash. May I come in?"

"Sure, Flutters."

Fluttershy entered and Dash closed the door behind her. “I just wanted to apologise for what I said last night.”

"What do you mean?"

“I know what I said made you feel a little uncomfortable. I probably shouldn’t have asked.”

“Oh, you meant… Yeah… That was a little unexpected.”

"Yeah...I'm sorry."

"Well...you were concerned about me, and you're my friend, so don't worry about it. Just don't tell the other girls..."

“Oh, I won’t. Oh, and I heard that Gilda’s in town.”

“Yeah, she is.”

“And that she has a baby.”

“Yes, that too. How did you find out about that?”

"Pinkie Pie."

“Oh. I see…”

"She was warning everyone."

“Well, she’s not a concern right now, but you should have been here a minute ago.”

"How come?"

“She was so CUTE playing with that baby.”

Fluttershy raised an eyebrow, "She was?"

“She was. I’d show you, but they’re taking a nap.”

"Oh... What's the baby's name?"

“His name’s Garuda.”

"Awwww..."

“I know, right? She figured that he would need a strong name after what she’s been through.”

"What has she been through?"

“Long story short, she’s been living on the streets.”

"Goodness, does she know who Garuda's father is?"

“Yeah… A griffon version of Prince Blueblood.”

"Oh…  Does he know?”

“Oh he knows, but he won’t let Gilda in.”

“Oh… Poor thing…”

“Yeah...she had to deliver Garuda in the street.”

“Oh my…”

“Yeah… So I figured I should take her in.”

“Oh...that’s real nice of you, Rainbow.”

“Well, after that story, King Sombra couldn’t turn her down.”

“I see… ”

“Yeah...so did you just come over here to apologize or was there something else?”

“I think you need to talk with Spike. Um… if that’s okay I mean.”

“Maybe sometime...but he wasn’t ACTUALLY raped, someone just threatened him.”

“But maybe you could help each other.”

“How? My experience was MUCH worse.”

Another voice commented, “You’re still hung up on that, huh Dash?”

Both ponies looked at the source of the voice. It was Gilda.

“Wouldn’t you be?”

“I was on the streets and jailed for three months. Nothing can top what happened to me.”

“Being forced to have sex by someone you thought you loved? Being thrown out into the street is nothing.”

“My parents could have helped me, but they moved without telling me when I needed help the most. THAT was a real stab to the back.”

“He showed pictures to the entire football team.”

“At least he was arrested.”

“I wish! The little mule’s parents bailed him out after three minutes.”

“Oh…”

“Yup! The ONLY good thing out of that was it was the last year of school and I left Cloudsdale for here.”

“Still, it was only one guy. The next one could be different.”

“Yeah...well the only guy I like really wouldn't work, cuz he likes someone else, so I might as well forget about it!”

“Who is that, Rainbow?”

Rainbow sighed, “I need to go for a walk.”

She walked over to the door and opened it, but before she could, Gilda said, “Dash, we’re your friends, you can tell-”

“Spike! Okay?! I have a stinkin crush on a teenage dragon!”

Chapter 19

Rarity, who was laying on the couch, heard a knock at the door. The alabaster unicorn sighed and got up to answer it. She opened the door and was nearly pushed over by Rainbow Dash. “Rainbow Dash?! What in Equestria’s gotten into you?”

“I need...advice.”

“Advice? Um… Okay. What’s on your mind?”

“W-well...I-” Rainbow’s cheeks started to turn red, “Maybe this was a bad idea.”

“What could be a bad idea?”

“Well… no offense, but you’d probably blab it the first time you got the chance.”

Rarity placed her hands on her hips, “I beg your pardon? Have I ever gossiped about anything personal?”

“Well… does Zecora count?”

“I never started that, and we all did it.”

“Still, you were part of it.”

“Well this time will be different.”

Rainbow sighed. “Well, I already blabbed to Fluttershy and Gilda already, so they already know.”

“So who is it that you don’t want to know?”

“The guy I have- A guy…”

“Yes…”

“I have a… Um…” She sat down. “I have a crush on Spike.”

Rarity swallowed, “For how long?”

“A pretty long time…”

“I see… Honestly I’m a bit surprised, I didn’t think you were attracted to men like him… And...I have to confess I was never sure if you were even attracted to men in general…”

“That’s because I was raped by one at one point.”

Rarity’s jaw dropped, “You were?”

“Yes… After that, I was too scared to even begin dating…”

“Well...I’m sorry that happened… What happened to the man who did it?”

“He was sent to prison.”

“Is he still there?”

Rainbow shook her head. “His parents bailed him out.”

“Oh...what happened to him after that?”

“Beats me, I moved to Ponyville after the trial.”

“I don’t blame you, with that monster on the loose.”

“Yeah, but, I guess on the bright side, I wouldn’t’ve come here if it hadn’t happened.”

“And you wouldn’t have wielded the Element of Loyalty.”

“Yeah… Got a point there.”

“But have Fluttershy and Gilda…” The name still brought a bad taste to Rarity’s mouth. “Have they said anything?”

“Yeah, they said that I needed to shake it off,” Rainbow Dash answered.

“I’m not sure you can forget something like being raped, but I think they wanted you to move on.”

“Well...maybe, but that’s real hard, I...I CAN’T do that.”

“Then...will you let us help?”

“I- I… Um… Well…”

Rarity stood up, then went over to Rainbow and gave her a big hug. “There’s no shame in asking your friends, Rainbow, it’s what we’re for.”

Rainbow sighed, “Rarity?”

“Yes dear?”

“You girls...you...you mean a lot to me…”

“Because you mean a lot to us.”

******

Pinkie Pie placed the cupcake tin, which held some cupcake mix, in the oven. She then set the egg timer to fifteen minutes and bounced merrily to the front counter. She noticed from the corner of her eye Applejack walking into the Sugarcube corner. "Hiya Applejack! How are you?"

“I’m good, Pinkie,” Applejack answered

"So do you want something to eat?"

“I was thinking of gettin’ somthin’ for Spike and Applebloom.”

"Oh? How come?"

“Well, they were getting along pretty well buildin’ one of Applebloom’s ARMO sets, whatever they are.”

"Ooh! Which one?"

“I don’t know. I think it was that big one.”

"Which big one? Gabba the Hut's boat? The Temple of Bad fortune? The-"

“I think it was a carrier as she put it.”

"Oh! The AT-AS and Carrier?!?!?!?!?? That's super pricey, must've saved a long time for it! Like super duper extra long!"

“Yeah, but as long as she’s happy. Anyway, got anything with gems?”

“The cakes did make a sapphire cupcake one time, but that was only for his birthday.”

"Hmm, think you could make a cupcake version?"

“I could try. Just make sure he knows that the gemstones are just candy.

"Yeah, I will. Thanks, Pinkie."

“No problem. And for Applebloom?”

“I guess an apple turnover.”

"Okey dokey! Would you like something?"

"No thanks, I already had somethin’ from here: a cherry pie.”

“A cherry pie?”

“What? A girl needs more than just apples.”

"I guess, but I'd never get tired of your apples!"

"Shucks, Pinkie, that's nice of ya to say," Applejack blushed.

“It’s true.”

"Well, you make pretty darn good food, yourself."

“Aw… Thank you Applejack.”

"Your welcome, Sugarcube." Applejack gave Pinkie a pat on the back.

*****

Celestia slammed on the brakes to the Mercedes and it hurled her and Luna forward. Luna’s eyes were as wide as dinnerplates and extremely bloodshot while her mane was a complete mess. Celestia didn't look much better. "I found that much easier in video games," Celestia noted.

Luna glared at her sister. “You should have thought about that before giving me a heart attack,” she scolded.

"Well...you could've said 'no'."

“It was against my better judgement… After all, you did insist.”

"Still, you could have."

“Aren’t we here on business?”

"Oh, thanks for reminding me," Celestia's horn began to glow, and after a bright flash of light her hair was brushed, makeup on, and instead of the civilian clothes, she was in a bright red dress, complete with heels.

"Tia...isn't that a bit much?"

“We’re here on business. Have to look professional now, don't we?”

“True…”

"And Eclipse and Solaris might be here..."

“Maybe.”

"It'd be a shame if they saw you like that..."

Luna’s horn immediately lit up. Soon, her clothes were replaced with a black dress with heels. Her hair was brushed and makeup was on. "Better?"

“Much.”

"I still don't believe this will work, how can we possibly be taken seriously in these?"

“Will he believe some princesses who look like they have just been on a wild ride?”

"Perhaps, but he might get the wrong idea, or think we're just a couple of air heads who flirt with the next cute boy they see."

"Then we'll show him we're more than meets the eye."

"Right..."

Both Princesses emerged from the car and headed over to Khai's table.

Khai looked over to see the princesses. He stood up and bowed. “Greetings, what brings you here?”

"We're here to discuss your attack on our people, Khai," Celestia frowned

“Oh, that…” Khai stood up. “They were not supposed to start their mission until I give the signal, and it was supposed to have been to break Qrong and Urbi out..”

"But why not wait for us to release them," Luna asked.

“It was a contingency and they were supposed to wait. Now it seems that they’ve blown it.”

"How do we know you didn't order it?"

“Because you must know that I am not like the changelings you’ve known.”

"How can we be sure? The changelings we encountered could mimic any form." Celestia explained.

“Our goals are different. All we want is to coexist peacefully.”

"If that's true, you have an odd way of saying it."

“Two of our people were arrested for a crime they didn’t commit. How would you react if that were your people?”

"I would try and get them out legally, and if all else failed, I'd release them myself."

“So why is there a double standard here?”

"Well, you haven't givens a lot of time, and your people were spies, were they not?"

“Our people were trying to capture a spy, and my men acted without my permission. I will deal with my men about what happened, but you have to understand that I am not leaving without my people. As for the spy, you can have her. She would have been given either a life sentence or a death sentence under our custody anyway.”

"We'll release your people, and give you the spy. And..." Celestia sighed, "I’d be willing to discuss peace...but not in Equestria."

"Really? And where might that be?"

“Buckridge. It’s a privately owned ski resort, so no one should be able to disturb us.”

"Very well, but I would request that my wife and brother-in-law may accompany me.

"Only if some close friends of mine can."

"Deal. When should we meet?”

"The first Friday of next month, the third."

“Alright. See you then."

*****

Twilight entered Spike's room, where said dragon was laying on his stomach on the bed with no shirt. "This won't hurt, will it," Spike asked.

Twilight sighed, “You will feel a little tension, but it shouldn’t be too bad.”

Spike swallowed, "Fine...just-" Spike belched and a letter came out.

“Okay… that was weird…” Twilight picked up the letter and read it.

Dear Twilight Sparkle, my most faithful student,

I and my sister will be going to the Buckmount Ski Resort in Coltenburg for a peace conference, on February 3rd, I would like you, your friends, and Spike to accompany us. You all need some R&R and I think this will be a good way to get it.

I’ve enclosed eight tickets, in case there is someone else you want to bring.

Sincerely,

Princess Celestia

Twilight’s eyes widened as the letter fell out of her hand.

“Twi? You okay,” Spike asked

"Oh. Um... Yeah."

“What’s the letter say?”

"Princess Celestia and Princess Luna are going to a peace conference and are inviting us."

“Really? Where?”

"At the Buckmount Ski Resort in Coltlenburg."

Spike’s eyes widened, “Whoa! I’ve never even heard of it…”

“It’s a ski resort Princess Celestia visits on occasion, I went there when I was twelve, it was real fun.”

“Sounds good to me, when are we going?”

“February 3rd.”

“Couple weeks, huh? Guess I’d better plan on what to bring.”

“Yeah, I will, too. It just concerns me because your wings will still be growing.”

"How bad could it be?"

"I'm not sure, but the cold might not be good for them."

“How so?”

"Well, they could freeze, and you don't know how to operate them, and I read that dragons like to be in warm climates for the duration of their puberty."

“Oh yeah… So I’ll just stay inside. It’s not a big deal.”

"But that doesn't feel fair to you, we'll be off having fun and you'll be stuck inside."

“I know, but I can’t just stay home when Celestia’s expecting all of us.”

"Would you want to stay home?"

“I don’t know. I could stay home, but then what if I get that pain again? And what if the other girls are disappointed that I don’t show up?”

"Well, I think they'd understand, and I could always stay here."

“No, I can’t ask you to do that. You’re her favorite student. You two are very close.”

"And you aren't? I'll take you being healthy and knowing you're safe over time with Celestia any day."

"Thanks, but I'd rather you be happy than miserable."

“Spike, it’ll be fine.”

"Look, I could just stay with the Apples, and I could help them out on the farm."

“Are you sure?”

"Yeah...I'm positive, you enjoy yourself, okay?"

“Okay. I’ll just let Applejack know when I see her.”

"Thank you."

Chapter 20

Fluttershy held a brown sack of food in her hand, containing lunch for two certain Changelings. The officer was leading her to their cell. “This is weird…” The officer mumbled.

“Um...what is? If you don’t mind my asking…”

“Huh?” The cop turned around. “Oh...well, I just think it’s weird you of all people is bringing a changeling lunch.”

“Why?”

“Well, you did seem to kick some Changeling flank in Canterlot during the invasion…”

“Oh...well, I’m not sure how much I did...and they weren’t the same changelings these are…”

The officer chuckled, “Yeah...right.”

“I know they aren’t.”

“Sure...Sure…” The officer opened the door to the Changelings jail cell.

Both changelings looked at the visitor. “Oh, hello Ms. Fluttershy,” Lyra greeted.

The officer left and locked the door behind him.

“Hello, Lyra...Um…” She held out the bags to her. “I brought you some lunch…”

“Oh...you didn’t have to do that.” Caramel said.

Fluttershy’s cheeks began to burn a bright red, “W-well… I couldn’t just let you starve.”

“They feed us, but thank you.”

“That was food,” Lyra asked, “I thought it was floor cleaner.”

“It might as well have been, and please don’t tell me you cleaned the floor with it..."

“...Maybe…” Lyra looked back at the bags “So...what is it?”

“Um… They’re sandwiches.”

"Oh...thanks." Lyra opened the bag and took the sandwiches out, "Do you want one?"

“N-No, they’re for you two.”

"Are you sure?"

Fluttershy nodded.

Lyra sighed, "Okay...I just feel bad eating in front of you..."

“I already ate.”

"Oh... Okay…"

“But I did want to check on you. If you don’t mind that is…”

"Oh...well, I think Mel's okay, I'm still a little ticked about his girlfriend."

Fluttershy swallowed, 'He has a girlfriend?'

Caramel intervened, “Well, wouldn’t say girlfriend…”

"Then what was it? After all... You were living together for a while..."

“But she’s my employer.”

"Maybe... But what about when I caught you two kissing in her kitchen?"

”Huh?”

"Remember when Bon Bon and I were over for supper? Carrot Top was getting some dessert and she asked for your help, you went with her and you were in there for about twenty minutes. Bon Bon got concerned and told me to investigate, since you ARE my brother, and when I peaked in you two were...well, kissing. Quite passionately I might add."

“Oh… Not who I was thinking about. I thought you meant Applejack. In my defence though, she set me up for it.”

Fluttershy twitched, there were TWO girls? And one of them was one of her best friends?!

"Well, any way, I'm glad you dumped Carrot Top. She was real annoying."

“Ya think?”

"Um...I have to go... Enjoy your sandwiches." Fluttershy bolted out of the room, covering her eyes so no one would see her crying.

******

Minty placed the last of her shirts in the middle drawer of her large chest of drawers. She slid the drawer closed and grinned. 'Thats done, what's next?'

She looked at her to-do list and looked underneath "Put clothes away" to see "Pack everything for trip to Twilight's."

'Okay, first I need to pack some clo-' Minty looked at the chest of drawers. "Oh come on!"

"Minty," Her mom called outside her room, "Are you alright?"

“Yeah Mom,” she answered.

"Do you need any help?"

"No... I'm good."

"Okay..." Minty's mom left.

Minty began to take clothes out of her drawers and stuff them into her bag. She made sure to pack a few spares, just in case an accident occurred, which usually did in Minty's case. But when she came to putting in shirts, a thought crossed her mind, 'Is it any colder there? Could call Twilight again...but she might be busy...being important and all." Minty sighed, 'I'll just bring some clothes of each, just in case.'

Minty went back to her dresser, grabbed some warmer clothes, and packed them into the suitcase. The next thing she knew she had to bring was a box of tissues, in case the subject of "him" came up. 'She might have her own tissues, ya know.'

Minty took out the tissue box, but then, 'But what if she only has a few?'

She set the box back in her bag. 'But what if she's allergic?'

"Come on Minty, you're being silly, no one's allergic to tissues...right?"

Minty left her room and went looking for her mom, or possibly her dad, whichever she saw first.

Minty's home was VERY large, one of the biggest and nicest in Canterlot, but considering her mother was a successful singer before becoming an even more successful writer, AND her father had inherited a lot of money from his deceased parents.

And if that didn't make Minty feel insecure, her brother was a prince, and her sister, not only a magic protégée and Princess Celestia's personal student, but she had saved Equestria in one form or another several times!

And she was just plain, regular, sock-collecting Minty. An earth pony in a family of unicorns to boot, some days she wondered if this was really her family, and if maybe she was adopted.

But she had never considered that possibility, till meeting her ex's father for dinner. ‘No, stop thinking about that! He’s just some racist dumbbell… You’ll find someone else.’

“Minty?” It was Night Light, Minty’s father, “Are you okay?”

“Oh, yeah,” Minty said.

Night Light placed a hand on Minty’s shoulder, “Are you sure?”

“Positive.”

“Okay… Do you need anything?”

“Um… Yes.”

“What?”

“Uh… Is Twilight allergic to tissues?”

“No… Why do you ask?”

“Just…wanted to make sure…”

“You aren’t allergic to tissues, are you?”

“N-no… Might develop one though…”

“Ah… Remember, I’m here if you need to talk about Artemis...”

“I remember...I just...don’t want to right now…”

“Okay… I understand. Just please understand that we want you to find someone who cares more about you than what kind of pony you are.”

“I know…”

Night Light smiled at his daughter, and gave her a small hug. “So… Are you excited about your stay with Twilight?”

“I am, but at the same time, very nervous.”

Night Light raised an eyebrow, “Why would you be nervous?”

“Do you know how long it’s been since the last time she was here?”

“Didn’t you see her at Shining’s wedding?”

“Yes, but not for an entire weekend.”

“Well...I’m sure it will be fine; she’s still your sister, and she loves you.”

“Well...yeah…but...she’s a celebrity!”

Night Light chuckled, “But she’s still a pony like you, what’s the big deal?”

Minty didn’t respond.

“Besides, I think you’ll find you two have a lot more in common than you think…”

“Other than being related and Cadence being our babysitter...I got nothin’.”

“Well, you’ll see. But you forgot something right off the bat.”

“What?”

Night Light pulled Minty into a large hug, “I love you, Twilight, and Shining the same; You’re all my favorite.”

Minty hugged her father, “We love you, too.”

*****

Gilda was doing a practice flight around Rainbow’s house. Since giving birth to Garuda, Gilda didn’t think it was a good idea to practice her moves, or even fly at all. So now that he was asleep in a safe place under Rainbow’s watch, she decided to do what she had been meaning to do for a long time. Needless to say though, her skills were a little rusty.  She couldn’t even execute her simplest tricks correctly. And after only twenty minutes, she was getting tired.

Gilda fluttered down to the ground and collapsed on her back.  She was breathing heavily.

Suddenly, Rainbow appeared above her, holding a sports drink. “Is everything okay, Gilda?”

Gilda looked at the blue pegasus. “Ye- yeah… Just warming up.”

"Yeah... Figured, so I brought ya this." She handed the sports drink to Gilda.

Gilda grabbed it. “Thank you.”

“No problem.”

Gilda sat up and took a sip. "Oh, and thanks again for letting me and Garuda stay for a bit."

“It’s no problem.”

"Well... I know it's not easy for you; taking in a dweeb like me, not to mention Garuda..."

“Well, as long as you’ve changed, I don’t have any problems.”

"Thanks..."

“You know… We could use one more person on the weather team if you’re interested.”

"You mean..as a job?"

"Yeah."

Gilda nearly choked on her sports drink. But something occurred to her. "Would it pay enough for me and Garuda?"

“Well, it should be enough to get you back on your feet, but if you want to find a place to live, it will take a while, maybe even a few months..

"Well...it sounds good...but...could you put up with me for those months?"

“Hey, I’m putting up with you right now. That’s a start, right?”

“Well, I guess… But… Who would watch Garuda if we both end up on the same shift?"

“Hey, Fluttershy’s great with kids. She might be able to do that.”

"I guess...but doesn't she have a job?"

"You know...I have no idea. Which is kinda sad, since we've been friends so long..."

"You've never asked?"

"No...never came up... Hmm...

Chapter 21

Fluttershy walked into her cottage not bothering to shut the door. She ran to her couch and continued crying. The only man she had ever had a genuine crush on, liked one of her best friends. Talk about awkward. Now her chance was gone. But maybe Applejack didn’t want to date him...maybe she didn’t want a relationship…

But what girl WOULDN’T want to date Caramel? He was sweet, cute, a hard worker, not to mention that one time when she was over at the Apples farm and he took off his shi-

No. She wouldn’t think about Caramel, why long for something she couldn’t have? Surely there would be someone else, right? Or maybe Rainbow Dash was right. Maybe she doesn’t really need anyone else. She had several animal friends, they were good company, right?

But...they weren’t the same… They can’t give her the romance a pony can. She couldn’t have a family with them. She could never find someone as amazing as Caramel…

Suddenly, Fluttershy heard a knock at the door. She looked up and asked, “Who is it?”

“Fluttershy? Is everything alright in there?” That voice belonged to Applejack.

Fluttershy was about to invite her in, but for some reason even she couldn’t comprehend, she yelled, “Go away!”

There was a pause, before Applejack asked. "Sugarcube? Is everythin' alright?"

“Just go away!”

"Fluttershy... Ah saw you runnin to your house...and Ah could tell you were crying... Please Flutters, Ah just wanna help."

Fluttershy tried to refuse, but gave up as she walked to the door and opened it.

She saw Applejack. The farm girl just stood there with a concerned look on her face holding a large basket of apples.

"Fluttershy...what's wrong?"

“Well…”

"You can tell me anything."

Fluttershy shook her head. "Not this."

"Wah not?"

"“I can’t…”

"Why?"

“I just can’t.”

Applejack sighed in defeat, "Alright, Flutters. Ah'll go..." Applejack put down the basket of apples, "Thought y'all might want some apples... They're on tha house."

Fluttershy didn't say anything. She just closed the door in Applejack's face.

*****

A young orange Pegasus was sitting in a large tree in the park, watching a group of young boys playing a game of football. One of the boys, who was playing the quarterback position, had caught the eye of the young Pegasus.

The orange Pegasus, wearing a dark blue windbreaker, jeans, and tennis shoes, continued to watch the boy. He wore a red sweater, jeans, and tennis shoes.

Scootaloo sighed. She knew she couldn't have him; he was seeing Diamond Tiara. She tried to tell herself that he wasn't worth it if he had a thing for Diamond Tiara.

“Scootaloo!”

Scootaloo jumped and almost fell out of the tree. She looked down to see Sweetie Belle and Applebloom looking up at her. She groaned before climbing down the tree. “Gee, can’t you be any more loud, Sweetie Belle?”

“Sorry. What are you doing up there?”

“I was...uh...watching the boys play football over there.”

“Oh… Wait, you like football?” Applebloom asked.

“Well… No… I just like the boys.”

“Ah… Watchin’ a certain pegasus?”

Scootaloo blushed. “Uh...Maybe… But what’s it to you?”

“Um… Nothing, I guess…”

“Okay…”

“So… We were thinking about trying to get our Cutie Marks in ice skating if you want to come.” Sweetie Belle offered.

“Haven’t we tried that last week?”

“No, that was hockey...and...did we really need to bring Bulk Biceps along?”

“Well… he did play hockey in college…”

“Still…”

“Sure, if it’ll get the terror twins off our back.”

“Don’t say their names. They might show up after you said that.”

“Well...maybe Bulk Biceps should come along again…”

The trio of girls giggled, before heading off to the lake…

*****

When they arrived, the only other person there was Pinkie Pie. “Hiya girls!” Pinkie greeted.

“Hi Ms. Pinkie.” Sweetie Belle greeted back as she sat down and began putting on her ice skates.

“Enjoyin’ some ice skatin’?” Applebloom asked.

“Yup! I love ice skating!” Pinkie twirled as she continued, “I love it almost as much as my friends, the Cake twins, Gummy, parties, cupcakes, chocolate, new Ponyville citizens, the beach, my party cannon, and MORE CHOCOLATE!!!!” She stopped. “Want to try it?”

“Sure!” Sweetie Belle walked onto the ice, with Scootaloo and Applebloom behind.

They were better at skating than last week, but they still took a few tumbles. They were trying to get used to the basic techniques of skating before getting into the actual stunts. Pinkie made sure to help the young girls.

Scootaloo tried to keep her balance, but it’s more difficult to balance on ice skates than it is on her scooter. She eventually slipped and fell on her flank. “Ow…” She rubbed her sore bottom.

Sweetie Belle skated quickly over. “Are you okay?”

“Yeah...but I think the only mark I’ll get out of this will be black and blue.”

“What kind ah mark is black and blue?” Applebloom asked.

“A bruise.”

“Oh…”

“Yeah… So I think I’ll sit this one out.” With that, Scootaloo hobbled over to the snow bank.

Sweetie Belle looked at Applebloom and whispered. “Should we just call it a day?”

“Well, Ah’m gettin’ a little cold myself…”

“Okay. Maybe we should go to Sugarcube Corner and get some Hot Chocolate.”

“Sounds good.”

“Yeah…” Sweetie looked to Pinkie. “Hey, Pinkie? Are you gonna be going to Sugarcube Corner?”

Pinkie stopped twirling. “Oh my gosh! I have to go right now and make the Cutie Mark Crusaders hot chocolate!” Pinkie bolted in the direction of Sugarcube Corner.

*****

The three girls entered Sugarcube Corner. Pinkie Pie was already behind the counter and wearing a pink sweater, jeans, tennis shoes, and a cooking apron. “Hi girls! I got you hot chocolate for ya!” She pulled out a tray with three mugs of hot chocolate.

“Thank you.” Sweetie Belle smiled sweetly.

The girls were about to pay for their drinks, but Pinkie stopped them. “You don’t need to pay anything, the Cakes decided since it was so cold the hot chocolate would be free.”

“Oh...thanks, Pinkie.”

“You bet.”

All three girls began to sip their hot chocolates. Out of the corner of her hey, Scootaloo spotted… him.

“Oh no…” Scootaloo muttered.

“What’s wrong?” Sweetie asked.

“He’s here.”

“Who?”

Scootaloo’s cheeks turned red. “R-Rumble.”

“Oh… Why don’t you talk go talk to him?”

“Are you crazy? He’s dating Diamond Tiara.”

“No, Diamond Tiara said he was dating Diamond Tiara. Are you gonna take her word for it?” Applebloom asked.

“I...I don’t know…”

“Is there any proof they’re dating?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“Other than what she said...no.”

“Uh-huh…”

“Your point?”

"You don't think maybe she's messing with you?"

“Well… Um… Now that I think about it… Yes.”

"Go ahead and talk to him.”

"B-but what if I mess up? What if I say something stupid? What if he really is dating Diamond Tiara?"

"Then that’s his loss.”

"Still...I just don't know..."

"Just go over there, and TALK to him."

Scootaloo sighed. "Fine..." She got up and walked over to Rumble. Her heart was pounding more furiously the closer she got to him. It wasn’t just the fact that he was possibly dating Diamond Tiara, but also because she really admired him. He was attractive, smart, athletic, and every girl at school seemed to have a mild crush. What would surprise her though is if he didn’t have a cutie mark. Wouldn’t that be a big turn off for Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon?

He was sitting alone, sipping a mug of hot chocolate. Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon were nowhere in sight, at least not yet. She walked up to him and uttered a small, “Hi…”

Rumble looked at Scootaloo and replied, “Hey.”

"Um...h-how's it going?"

"Uh...okay..." Rumble started to sweat

“Good…”

"Yeah…” Rumble paused for a minute before he said, “So what brings you here?”

“Well, for one thing, we needed some hot chocolate to warm up with.”

"Oh...is there another reason?"

“Well… Um…” Scootaloo definitely didn't want to say she had a crush on him now, she had to wait. But what would she say?

"Are you okay?"

“Yes. I just…”

“Just what?”

“Um… Well…” Then it hit her. “What do you think of Diamond Tiara?”

"You mean that daddy's girl that gets whatever she wants and bullies almost every kid in class? She's a classless jerk that should fall in a Diamond dog mine."

“I agree with ya there,” Scootaloo said.

"Yeah... How she gets away with it is beyond me."

“Yeah. Why doesn’t Ms. Cheerilee just expel them?”

"Beats me. I'm not sure if she sees all of what happens."

“Probably not…"

“I hope she does soon, I’m tired of her hitting on me.”

This interested Scootaloo. “So...you two AREN’T dating?”

Rumble seemed surprised. “She’s starting rumors, too? Ugh…”

“Well, I guess that answers that question.”

“Yeah… Kinda weird she’d do that, I don’t think I’m real popular.”

Now Scootaloo was surprised. “What made you think that?”

“Uh… mostly cuz whenever I talked to someone, usually a girl, they just ignore me. You’re the first girl to talk to me...cept Diamond Tiara.”

“Uh… I think I may know why…”

“Why?”

“Uh… I’ll tell you later, but I have to ask, do you have your cutie mark?”

“Not yet.”

“Hmm...Interesting… Could I sit down?”

Rumble’s cheeks started to turn red, and his heart started beating hard. “Uh… N-no, I don’t mind.”

Scootaloo took a seat next to him. “I...I was asking cuz...maybe you’d like to be a member of our club…”

“Club?”

“Yeah… it’s just me, Sweetie Belle, Applebloom, and Applebloom’s cousin, Babs, but we wouldn’t mind another member.”

“I think I’d like that...but would the others let me since...I’m a boy?”

“I doubt they’d mind, they might actually be glad.”

Rumble chuckled nervously. “Well...I dunno. But I’ll definitely think about it.”

“Okay, great!” Scootaloo grinned. “And I’ll talk about it with Sweetie and Bloom.”

“Thanks…” Rumble smiled back.

“Yeah… I’ll let you know at school tomorrow if you’re in.”

“I hope not. My brother, Thunderlane, told me that the heating in the school isn’t working, and all the snow ‘n’ stuff...it might be closed.”

“My aunt will be happy to hear that, she had a tough time getting me to school on Friday.

“Yeah. This is one of those days I wished I could fly.”

“Oh? Why can’t you?”

Scootaloo swallowed. “I’d...rather not say…”

“Oh… Well, it’s okay. Thunderlane said he couldn’t fly ‘til he was fourteen

“Really? It took that long?”

“Yeah, some ponies are born flying, some just take a while. You’ll fly eventually.”

“Thanks… That helps.”

“You’re welcome.”

“Well… I gotta go. Where should I meet you if school’s closed?”

“Um… How ‘bout the tree in the park where you were watching us play football?”

“Okay! Sounds gr-” Scootaloo swallowed. “Uh...you saw that?”

“Yeah, kinda hard to hide in a tree when there are no leaves.”

Scootaloo’s cheeks turned red. “Hehe… Guess I didn’t think of that…”

“Yeah… You can watch us play on the ground next time, we don’t mind.”

“Alright. See ya then.”

“Okay, see ya.”

Scootaloo got up and walked back to the other girls.

“So, what’d he say?” Sweetie asked, eagerly.

“First, he and Diamond Tiara are not dating.”

“Well that’s good.” Bloom noted. “Anything else?”

“He wants to be one of us.”

“He wants to be a girl?” Sweetie gave Scootaloo a strange look.

“No! He wants to be a cutie mark crusader.”

“Oh. Wait, he doesn’t have his cutie mark?”

“Nope.”

“Oh. But then that would make him the first boy to be a Cutie Mark Crusader.”

“Yeah… But why not?”

“Ah don’t know. It just feels... weird.” Applebloom confessed.

“Well… Wouldn’t it be sexist if we left him out just cuz he’s a boy?” Sweetie pointed out.

“Well… Um… Uh…”

“Come on Applebloom. Please?” Scootaloo begged.

“Ah don’t know… Maybe we all should talk with him. And Ah’ll call Babs and see what she thinks.”

“Alright. Just hurry it up.”

“Ah’ll do it tonight. But...what if she says ‘no’?”

“Hopefully he’ll understand.”

“That’s not what Ah meant. What Ah meant was we’ll be in a tie.”

“Oh. Well… I guess we flip a bit.”

“So y’all are gon’ let a coin decide whether or not he gets in?”

“Yes,” the duo answered.

“Fine...but let’s do it tomorrow after Ah ask Babs.”

“Okay.”

Scootaloo sighed, thinking. ‘This won’t make things awkward, will it?’

Chapter 22

Princess Luna was applying the last of her make up. She was preparing for a date with Eclipse and she wanted to look her best. She was wearing a red silk dress with a white pearl necklace and red heels. Her mane was done into a ponytail. She took her purse off the bed and started to head out the door.

As she walked down the halls of the castle to the main door, she started to think about her relationship with Eclipse. It had been going on for a couple weeks, and this would be their fifth date. It felt like he’d pop the question any moment now, but then it’s only been a couple of weeks. Maybe she was just rushing it. It hadn't even been a month… But at the same time… She felt so comfortable with him...and he was a fellow Alicorn, so he had the same lifespan as she did, and there weren't many Alicorns left…

Once she made it to the doors, she decided to shake her thoughts before walking through the doors and toward the gates. She opened the gate and saw Eclipse standing there, patiently waiting on her. He was standing by his car, a silver Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution. Eclipse opened the passenger door to let her in. "Thank you, Eclipse." Luna smiled.

“My pleasure,” Eclipse smiled back. He went to the other side and entered the driver's seat. "I thought we might go to a restaurant that serves food from Prance."

“Oh. Okay.”

Eclipse started the car, and began to drive to the restaurant.

“I noticed that your care is clean,” Luna said.

"Yeah...sorry it was so dirty last time, Solaris took your sister for a little ride in the forest and...I didn't have the time to wash it."

“Oh.”

“Yeah, Solaris isn’t known for being tidy.”

"I know how that can be..." Luna remembered Celestia splashing in the puddles when they were young. She was anything but amused after that incident.

"Yeah..they seemed to enjoy it a lot...so that's good."

They soon arrived at the restaurant. They sat at a table and both ordered eggplant parmesan before they decided to talk.

“So, have you ever gone fishing?”

“Once as a filly. Don’t know why we do it though. I mean, we don’t eat meat period.”

"Well...for the recreation, I usually throw them back."

“Ah. But still, aren’t we technically hurting them?”

"How so?"

“Doesn’t the hook pierce its mouth?”

"I don't use hooks.”

“You don’t?”

“No, I use nets."

“Oh. I was taught to use poles.”

“Well, you just throw the net, pick it up, and you have a lot of fish.”

"I see...interesting." Luna found herself a few inches from Eclipse.

Eclipse was beginning to notice too, not to mention how beautiful she was... "Luna?"

"Yes?"

Eclipse moved closer, “Is it odd to say that you have stars in your mane?”

“Oh that? No, I actually get that a lot.”

"Oh... It's really beautiful..." He stroked her mane.

Luna placed a hand on his shoulder. "Thank you."

Eclipse moved in closer, and was just about to kiss her when-

"Here are your orders," the waitress put the food on the table.

Eclipse and Luna returned to their original positions. Both were blushing from having that one moment interrupted.

"Thank you..." Eclipse told the waitress.

“You’re welcome.” The waitress left the Alicorns to their meals.

******

After the alicorns finished eating their meal, they decided to go back to the castle and take a walk in the garden. They didn't say much as they both held hands. Eclipse had found a red rose and cut it with his magic so it wouldn't have any thorns. He then placed it in Luna's hair, as it complemented her dress.

As they continued to walk, Luna asked, “Do you have any family that I would need to know about?”

“Well, I do have a few, but they’re either outside of Equestria entirely or dead.”

"Oh..."

"What about you?"

“Yes, but most of them died from time.”

"I see..."

“Yes, we didn’t have too many extended family members.”

“Ah.”

"But I do have Celestia, and my adopted niece, Mi Amore Cadenza, so I'm not terribly lonely."

“And I do stop by every once and a while.”

"That is good. Someday-" Luna was suddenly interrupted by a high pitched howl. “What in my sister’s name…” She looked down to see a small wolf pup howling at her. She smiled at the small wolf and bent down to pet him. "Hello, little one."

The pup stepped back a bit in fear, but as Luna stroked his head, he began to warm up to the lunar princess.

Eclipse tried to resist a laugh. The fact that the wolf was howling at his girlfriend was hilarious on multiple levels. He bent down and noted. "I didn't know you had such a way with animals."

“Just with the animals of the night.”

"I see..."

Luna suddenly gasped.

"What's wrong?"

"This poor thing doesn't have a family...they were all killed by a poacher."

“How did you figure that out?”

"I can communicate with these creatures as well."

“Okay…”

Luna took the wolf pup in her arms. "I'm going to feed him...poor thing hasn't eaten in days."

“Okay. Should I get him something?”

"Yes... I'll need to get to the store and get some dog food...would you drive me?"

“I will.”

Luna smiled as the two walked out of the garden, with the wolf pup on Luna’s arms. Luna followed Eclipse to his car. Luna went to the back seat of the car while Eclipse  went up front and started the engine. The pup immediately jumped in surprise when the engine started, but Luna petted him in an effort to calm him down. "Are you okay back there?" Eclipse asked.

"Yes, we are." Luna replied.

*****

Luna stayed in the car with the wolf pup while Eclipse went in to get the dog food.

Princess Luna looked into the pup's eyes. "Are you doing any better, little one?"

The pup nodded.

“That’s good. Can you tell me your name?”

“M-Midnight,” the pup replied.

"That is a beautiful name."

"Th-thank you."

Luna smiled and stroked his head. "My friend Eclipse is getting you some food, he should be along shortly."

“Okay. I didn’t know ponies could hunt.”

“We don’t.”

Midnight frowned. "Then how's he getting food?"

"Well...he's going into that building over there and getting food."

“Oh…”

"Yes... Though it might not be what you are accustomed to eating.”

"Well… I don't mind...I haven't eaten in a while..."

“How long is ‘a while’?”

"A week, your majesty."

Luna remained silent, continuing to pet him. Finally, "Midnight, would you like to come live with me?"

Midnight’s ears perked up. “Me? Live with you?”

Luna smiled as she nodded. "I would be the only one who could understand you, but I would enjoy a companion such as you. But only if you agree."

Midnight thought for a bit. “Would I be able to go outside?”

"Of course."

“What about my songs? Would they be allowed?”

"I love hearing them, why would I not allow them?"

“I heard that it annoys most ponies.”

"Well, we will make sure to do it away from others..."

“Okay.”

"Though I’m sure you’ll get along well with my sister’s pet.”

"What's a 'pet'?"

“Well, pets are animals that ponies take in to be lifelong companions.”

"So...I'd be your pet?"

“Pretty much.”

“So I would be your… friend for life?”

"If I may be yours."

Midnight really had to think about it. On one paw, he’d have a home that he’d be safe in, but on the other paw, he’d be back in the wild alone, and possibly die in a few days. Finally, he looked up to Luna, and wagged his tail. "I...would like to go live with you, Princess Luna."

Luna smiled. “That’s good, but there is one condition that you need to be aware of.”

Midnight tilted his head. “Yes, your majesty?”

“Just call me Luna.”

Midnight nuzzled Luna's arm. "I will, Luna."

Finally, Eclipse came out of the store holding a bag of dog food. He placed it into the trunk of the car and went up to the driver's side. He stepped in and started the car. He asked, “Okay, are you ready, Luna?”

“We are ready,” Luna nodded.

*****

Luna took Midnight up to her room. She placed a bowl of food on the floor and set Midnight down next to it. Midnight sniffed the bowl and jumped back before holding his paw to his nose. "It smells...funny."

“I know, but it’s the best we can provide you with. Don’t worry, I have heard dogs say that it tastes better than it looks… or rather smells…”

Midnight sniffed at it again, he hadn't eaten in a while...maybe it wasn't too bad... He took a small nibble of it.

"How is it?" Luna asked.

Once he let the flavors process in his head, he literally wolfed down the whole bowl of food.

Luna giggled, "I see that you enjoyed it."

Midnight licked his lips and said, “You were right; it did taste better than it looked.”

"I'm glad. Now... It's almost our bedtime...I don't have a bed for you...so the best I can do is get a few blankets..." Luna walked to the closet, pulled out some blankets, and laid them on the floor.

Next, she went to the desk and took out some old newspapers, then did the same as she had with the blankets. "If you need to… relieve yourself, you may do so on these sheets of newspaper.”

"Alright..." Midnight yawned. He walked over to the blankets and curled up.

Luna smiled, "Sleep well, my friend."

“You too, friend…” With that, Midnight fell asleep.

Luna was about to enter the bathroom and take a bath, but there was a knock at the door. Luna went over and opened it. "Eclipse, I did not know you were still here," she whispered.

Eclipse replied, "Yeah... I just wanted to say...something..."

"And what would that be?"

"Uh..." Eclipse thought for a few moments, trying to think... Then, "Uh...nevermind..."

Eclipse was about to leave, when Luna placed a hand on his shoulder. Eclipse turned to look- and was surprised to feel Luna's lips, touching his own. Eclipse then realized what was happening, and kissed her back. Luna put her arms over Eclipse's shoulder, and Eclipse hugged Luna.

They remained that way for a few moments, before both needed air, and broke the kiss. Eclipse, out breath, whispered, "I love you, Princess Luna."

Luna whispered back, “I love you too, Eclipse.”

They both let go. “Well, I guess I better get home before Solaris gets worried.”

“Yeah… By the way, thank you for helping me with Midnight. I know we just met him, but-”

“I know. It kinda feels like he’s a child you adopted, even though you’re the only one who can understand him.”

"Perhaps I am...but...I felt that he needed me..."

"I think he did."

“But I wonder how Philomina would react to him.”

“Who?”

“My sister’s pet phoenix.”

"Ah...I didn't know she had a pet...huh."

“Yeah… But now that I think about it… Princess of the day gets a phoenix while the princess of the night gets a wolf… Sounds fitting, does it not?”

Eclipse smiled, "Very."

Chapter 23

Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo were waiting at the clubhouse for Applebloom. They were waiting to see if they would be able to invite Rumble into their group. The roads were still too icy and snowy in Ponyville to get to school, so the Cutie Mark Crusaders were holding a mandatory meeting. Sweetie Belle looked out the window for the umpteenth time. “She sure is taking her sweet time.” She noted.

“Tell me about it. It’s gonna be lunch time in an hour.” Scootaloo pointed out.

Sweetie Belle sighed, and returned to looking out the window. She immediately saw Applebloom run up to the front door.

Applebloom burst into the clubhouse, out of breath. She went over to one of the beanbags and collapsed.

Everyone looked at her. “You okay there, Applebloom?” Scootaloo asked.

“Yeah, just had a hard time leavin’, Applejack found out she was handlin’ the Apple family reunion this year and was makin’ a whole bunch of plans.”

“Oh...when’s the reunion?” Scootaloo asked.

“Next weekend.”

“Oh...So did you talk to Babs?” Sweetie asked.

“Yup…” Applebloom nodded.

“What did she say?”

Applebloom sighed. “She said she didn’t mind… Not ta mention Granny Smith scolded me when she found out Ah didn’t want Rumble cuz he was a boy.”

Both girls laughed.

Applebloom glared at them both, “Ah don’t have a problem with boys...but this feels weird…”

“Well… I’m fine with adding boys. Especially if they’re cute…” Sweetie Belle grinned deviously.

“Ew! You two are startin’ to sound like some of the gals who make eyes at Big Mac...which has been almost every girl in town…”

“Not EVERY girl. What about… Um…” Scootaloo had to think for a few moments.

“Ms. Twilight?” Sweetie suggested.

Applebloom thought for a few moments…”Maybe...but she ain’t been here long enough.”

“Besides, she seems to be all over someone else,” Scootaloo said.

Applebloom and Sweetie Belle looked at their friend. Sweetie Belle asked, “Ms. Twilight? The anti-social bookworm?”

“Yup. Least that’s what I heard…”

“Weird…”

“Think it could be a mistake?” Applebloom asked.

“Well… I heard it from Spike. He told me when he told me about his wings.”

“He told ya about that?” Applebloom asked.

“Yup, since Rainbow Dash might teach us both.”

“Oh.”

“Hey! Should we go tell Rumble?” Scootaloo asked.

“Oh yeah, we should.” Sweetie Belle went over to the door and opened it, holding it open for the other two girls.

Both girls walked out of the clubhouse, with Sweetie Belle close behind. They started to head into town when Applebloom noticed a figure from a distance. The others also noticed the figure and stopped to watch as the figure approached.

Once they could deduce what the figure was, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo felt a shiver go through their spines.

He was a black Pegasus with a yellow mane. He was wearing a blue jacket, a red shirt, worn baseball cap, jeans, and boots. He saw the girls and waved, smiling. “Hey there.”

"Hello," Applebloom greeted, albeit in a suspicious tone.

The other two girls didn't say anything.

"Well, I'm trying to meet up with my little sister. Though I doubt you've heard of her."

"Try me." Applebloom sneered.

"Her name's Fluttershy, she lives in a cottage...but I don't know where the cottage is. I haven't seen her in...forever."

“Wait, Fluttershy? As in the Element of Kindness Fluttershy?”

“The what?”

Applebloom shot him another strange look. "You don't know what the Elements of Harmony are?"

"She hasn't really mentioned it in her letters... She's mentioned having friends, though."

"Uh-huh..."

Sweetie Belle finally got out of her frozen state and asked. "Do...you...uh..." Sweetie started blushing.

Applebloom rolled her eyes.

"Look...I know you probably shouldn't talk to strangers...but... I'm really her brother."

“Are ya sure about that?”

"I am... Hold on..." The man reached into his coat pocket and pulled out a piece of paper, then handed it to Applebloom. "This was the letter she sent me inviting me over."

Applebloom looked at the letter for a minute. It looked like Fluttershy's handwriting, sounded like Fluttershy, and even had a slight animal smell to it like Fluttershy's cottage. “Eeyup. It’s definitely her.”

The other girls gave her a strange look.

Applebloom looked back at them. "What?"

"Nothing..." Scootaloo replied. “Anyway, we know where she lives.”

The man smiled, "Great, could you show me how to get there, please? Her letter didn't say where her cottage was..."

Applebloom explained the directions to the man, still feeling unsure about him.

When she had finished, the man thanked her, and left.

When the man was out of earshot, Applebloom said. "Ah don't like it."

“What do you mean?” Sweetie Belle asked.

"Somethin' feels fishy ta me..."

"With that guy?"

"Yeah...maybe we should follow him..."

"And get arrested?" Scootaloo questioned, "Count me out."

"But would you rather see Miss Fluttershy hurt?"

Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo looked at each other.

Finally, Scootaloo answered, "Good point, let’s go.”

*****

The girls followed the stranger while he walked to Fluttershy's cottage. He wasn't really doing anything all that weird...but Applebloom retained her suspiscion.

Her fellow Crusaders, while suspicious, couldn't help but stare at him when Applebloom wasn't looking at them. Unlike Applebloom, they had developed a small crush on the newcomer.

The stranger knocked on the door. After a minute of silence, Fluttershy answered. Upon seeing the stranger Fluttershy gasped and put her arms around him.

The man hugged her back and they remained that way for a few moments.

Applebloom turned to the other Crusaders. "Well...guess Ah was wrong...again."

"Don't worry about it," Scootaloo shrugged, "You were just worried about Miss Fluttershy."

"Ah know...but Ah still feel bad."

"Well... Are we ready to tell Rumble he's a Crusader?" Scootaloo asked.

"Y'all can. Ah'm gonna help AJ and Big Mac with the reunion stuff."

"Yeah...and I need to keep my eye on Rarity. She's beginning to scare me ever since the whole Changeling thing."

Scootaloo gulped. "So...I'm just gonna tell him?"

Both girls nodded.

"Great..."

*****

Fluttershy allowed her visitor inside. "Thank you so much for coming, Brainstorm."

Brainstorm smiled at Fluttershy. "I couldn't say no to my little sister."

"So how's Uncle Big Deal?"

"He's doing okay."

"That's good. He said he was doing good when he wrote me last, but...you know how he is..."

"Yeah..."

"So how bout you? Are you doing well?"

"I am, actually."

"Good. You know, it has been way too long since I last saw you."

"It has..." Brainstorm chuckled, " You really surprised me when you told me you had friends, you know."

Fluttershy blushed, "I remember, you spit up your punch at Uncle Big Deal's party."

"Yeah... Though I felt better when he did the same after you told him."

Both siblings burst out laughing remembering the scene. “Oh those were good times.”

“Yeah… By the way, I would like to meet those friends of yours.”

“Oh… Um… I’ll have to see if they aren’t doing anything right now.”

“I don’t mean right now, just while I’m here. Course, guess I’ll need to meet Miss...uh...Twilight?”

Fluttershy nodded.

“...Since...well…”

She nodded again, “Thanks again for being willing to do that…”

“Sure. I’m happy to help.” Brainstorm smiled.

Fluttershy sighed, “I just hope they’ll accept it.”

******

Scootaloo stood by the large tree and was waiting for Rumble to finish up. As the pegasus colt was finishing a quick game of football with his friends, he finally went over to Scootaloo. “Hey,” he greeted.

Scootaloo smiled, “Hey. You looked real good out there.”

Rumble’s eyes widened, “I-I did?”

Scootaloo realized what she had just said and tried to recover, “U-uh...yeah...you did real well...especially on that last touchdown.”

“Oh…” Rumble looked disappointed, “Thanks…”

“Anyway… I have some good news.”

“You do?”

“Yeah, you are allowed to be a Cutie Mark Crusader.”

“Really?!”

“Yup.”

“Awesome!”

"Yeah... Our first meeting is after lunch at one."

“Today or another day?”

"Today...just make sure you're there."

“You can count on it.”

"Cool, see ya then."

Scootaloo was about to leave, before Rumble said. "Hey Scootaloo?"

"Yeah?"

Rumble smiled, "Thank you."

*****

Midnight was sitting in the middle of Luna’s room. He was still trying to process in his mind that he once again had a home. The only differences were that his guardian is a pony and he’s living in a castle. His guardian was asleep on her bed. He felt mildly tempted to go up there and lay with her...but he wasn't sure he should rush it. He didn't want to make her angry and get kicked out…

Wait...out...

Maybe it was time he explore his new home… He quietly walked out the door and padded through the hallway. Midnight was impressed with all the hallways and doorways. The elaborate construction exceeded what he has seen in the den he was born in before his parents...

Midnight shivered at the thought. What he saw is the last thing that needed to be on his mind right now. He shook it off and continued on his trek. Soon, the faint sound of coughing caught his attention. His ears picked it up before he walked toward the source of the sound. He entered the room and saw a featherless, ugly bird in a gold cage.

“Oh… my…” were the first words to leave his mouth.

The bird looked at him and cocked its head.

Midnight was having a hard time taking his eyes off of it, but he eventually shook it off. “Um… Hi?”

The bird squaked.

“M-My name’s Midnight… What’s yours?”

The bird pecked at it's full food tray.

“Oh, you’re hungry. I guess you’d rather be left alone…”

The bird squaked again.

“Okay then, I’ll just leave…”

The bird made a few choking noises.

“Are you okay?”

The bird continued coughing.

Midnight walked back over to it. "Maybe I should get some help."

Suddenly, the bird burst into flames!

Midnight gasped. "I'll go get someone!" He bolted out of the room and started howling.

A few guards were running up to the room. The first thing they noticed was Midnight, a wolf they were never informed of. Their first reaction was to point spears at him. Midnight noticed this and swallowed hard before he calmly walked back to the room with the bird.

Princess Celestia walked into the room and saw Midnight. "Well...hello there, little one. How are you?"

Midnight tilted his head in confusion. He couldn't understand this one like Luna. Speaking of, he noticed Luna running in behind Celestia. “The wolf is mine,” she yelled, “I just found him last night!”

Celestia looked to her sister, "So, is he your pet?"

“Yes.”

Celestia smiled, "I'm glad...but I wish you had told me earlier."

“I never really got the chance.”

"Well...maybe a note next time or something?"

“Okay.”

"Now...whys he so upset?"

“I have no idea, but I can ask him.”

“Okay.”

Luna knelt next to Midnight. “What’s wrong?” Luna asked Midnight.

"There was this bird coughing and then it got caught on fire!" Midnight explained.

“You mean the one that’s now ashes?”

Midnight looked over at the cage- and gasped. It WAS ashes! “No! I- I was too late.”

“No you weren’t. Let me handle this.” Luna walked over to the cage and said, “Philomina, would you knock it off already?”

A flash of light engulfed the ashes, and it soon changed to a beautiful Phoenix. Midnight looked at her with such awe.

"Why do you have to keep scaring people like that?" Celestia asked the bird.

“But it’s so fun…” Philomina replied.

"But do you think a wolf puppy would know about a Phoenix's life cycle?" Luna asked.

Philomina shrugged. “I never figured I’d meet a wolf.”

Midnight heard this. “Well...I never thought I’d meet a phoenix.”

“Suppose so…”

"So what do you have to say for yourself?" Celestia glared.

Philomina sighed. "I'm sorry..."

"Good."

Midnight looked at Philomina. “Do you do that to every new person you meet?”

Philomena thought for a few moments, then finally. “Pretty much.”

Midnight rolled his eyes.

“But...I don’t meet a lot of people…”

"Why's that?"

“I just don’t get out much, but that’s my choice.”

"What's stopping you?"

Philomena shrugged, “Not a lot of folks like talking to me.”

“Well, they might like you if you didn’t prank them…”

"A very good point,” Luna pointed out.

Then something occurred to Midnight, “Philomena? Do you have any friends?”

"Like I said, not a lot of folks don't like talking to me."

“Oh...well… I could be your friend…”

Philomina looked at the wolf. “Really?”

"Sure." Midnight grinned.

Philomena smiled back, "Thank you."

“Just don’t scare me like that again.” Midnight noted.

"Okay..." Philomena sighed.

Chapter 25

Gilda was sitting in her bed, writing a book report that was due next Monday. Her parents were out of town, as usual, and Gilda was feeling a loneliness she hadn’t felt in a long time. Skywishes was out on another camping trip with her parents, and Rainbow was with her boyfriend. She had almost finished, but suddenly she heard the doorbell ring repeatedly. “Keep your shirt on!” Gilda, only in a red t-shirt and black shorts, replied. She ran down the stairs and soon reached the door. She looked out the peephole and gasped at what she saw.

*****

Gilda was still holding Garuda in her arms while Rainbow Dash drove home. “Are you sure you don’t want me to drive?” Gilda asked.

“I can do this!” Dash angrily answered, wiping tears out of her eyes.

“Dash,” Gilda put a hand on Dash’s arm. “Please, stop the car.”

“No! I can handle this!”

“No, you can’t. Just, pull the car over, you’re scaring me.”

“How am I scaring you?”

“For one thing, you nearly sideswiped another car two lights ago.”

Rainbow stayed silent.

“And you also ran said lights.”

Rainbow remained silent.

“Pull over right now.”

Rainbow remained driving for a few moments, then finally pulled the car off to the side.

“Thank you.” Gilda got out of the car and walked over to Rainbow’s side. “Now...get out, I’ll drive the rest of the way.”

Rainbow yanked open the door and stared Gilda in the face.

The two stared at each other for the longest time- then Rainbow burst into tears.

*****

Gilda yanked open the door and ran to Rainbow, covered only by a blanket she held close to her exposed body. “Dash? What happened to you?”

Rainbow jumped at her friend’s voice, but when she saw who it was, tried to answer. “I...Citrus...he…”

“Citrus did this to you?!”

Rainbow nodded, still quivering.

“Look, come inside. We’ll get you warmed up and get some clothes on you.”

“O-oka-” Rainbow suddenly started to cough, then bent over and threw up.

Gilda placed a hand on Dash’s back and attempted to comfort her.

Once she had finished, she looked at Gilda, “I-I’m sorry, I’ll try and clean it up.”

“No, I’ll get it. You couldn’t help it, you go in and...just try and calm down or take a shower...do what you have to, okay?” Gilda smiled.

Rainbow Dash nodded and made her way to the bathroom.

******

Rainbow sat on the rear fender of her car, trying to hold back tears, but she wasn’t doing a very good job. “Why would she do that?” She demanded, almost choking up, “Why would she betray me like that?”

“I don’t know...maybe he’s blackmailing her or something?” Gilda suggested.

“No… she’s actually...seeing him…”

“I dunno...seems fishy to me.”

“Well it’s happening.”

“Alright, but you never know.”

“Well do you wanna go back and ask her?!” Dash shouted.

Gilda sighed, “No…right now all I want to do is make sure you’re okay.”

“I…I thought I had gotten over him by now…but…”

“Dash, I don’t think you can get over something like that.”

“I just thought I could get away from that…man.”

“The word you’re looking for is ‘pest.’”

Dash lightly chuckled, “Yeah.”

“Gilda,” An angry female voice called out from behind them.

They both turned around and saw Applejack behind them, her arms folded. “AJ…it’s not what you think it is.” Dash pointed out.

“Then what is it?”

“It isn’t any of your business.” Gilda shot AJ a glare.

“Oh, it ain’t? Actually Ah think it is, seein’ as how Dash’s one of mah best friends.”

“Gilda…it’s alright, it’s about time I told her. It’s about time I told everyone.”

“Told everyone what?” Applejack asked.

“I’ll tell you and everyone at Twilight’s, can you round everyone up?”

“Uh…sure… But you’ll explain everythin’?”

“I will.”

“Okay, then, see ya in a bit.”

*****

After about an hour, all the girls had arrived at Twilight’s library. When Rarity and Fluttershy had entered, Applejack felt a little weird, since Fluttershy wouldn’t talk to her. She wondered if maybe now would be a good time to talk to Fluttershy, but Applejack didn’t want to ruin…whatever Rainbow Dash was wanting.

Meanwhile, Fluttershy was taking notice of Applejack. She was going to make sure she would sit as far away from Applejack as possible and hope that AJ wouldn’t ask anything about it. Now-

Wait, why were Rainbow Dash and Gilda in dresses?

“Thanks for coming everyone,” Twilight greeted, “Um…I have to confess I’m not really sure why Rainbow and Gilda wanted us all here…but I’m sure it’s important.”

Rainbow sighed. She was sitting close to Gilda and Garuda and was…scared? “Uh…thanks Twi…” She swallowed hard, “Well…you see…”

*****

Gilda returned to her room. She heard that the hot water running in the bathroom in her room. Gilda knocked on the door, “Rainbow? Are you okay?”

“No!”

“Do you need me to come in there?”

“I- No…I’ll be out in a bit…”

“Okay, take all the time you need.”

“Thanks…”

“Um…should I call your parents?”

“No! Please, don’t!”

“Okay…but one of us will have to…”

Rainbow stayed silent.

“Just…come out when you’re ready.”

“Fine…”

*****

All the girls (except Fluttershy and Gilda) were stunned. To hear that their strong, confident, and loyal friend had been assaulted…

“Dash, who the heck was this boyfriend of yours, and can I please take my shotgun to him?” Applejack asked, having one of those “if looks could kill” expressions.

“Um…well… I’ll explain that.” Dash said, and continued.

*****

Rainbow finally exited the bathroom; she was wearing a sweatshirt, sweat pants, and socks. “Well, you look a little better.” Gilda said, trying to make her friend feel a little better.

“I wish I felt better.” Rainbow sighed.

Gilda nodded, “Is there anything you want me to do?”

“I…don’t know…I-“ Tears starting streaming down her cheeks, “I have no clue!”

“That’s okay. Just…take your time.”

“I can’t…my parents’ll worry about me and your parents will kill me for you having-.”

“Dash, don’t worry about it. For one thing, my parents won’t be here for a few days, and for another, I’m sure your parents will understand.”

“No…they won’t, cuz I’m not gonna tell them.”

“What?! You aren’t going to tell them?”

“No…I can’t. They’re gonna ground me forever cuz I got back WAY past curfew, AND had underage sex out of wedlock.”

“No, you got raped. BIG difference.”

“I just…can’t tell anyone…except you…since-“

“But Rainbow, what if you got HIV? Or you could’ve even gotten pregnant!”

Rainbow swallowed, “I-“

“You NEED to tell them.”

“But…they’ll KILL me!”

“Who are they, my parents?” Gilda joked.

“Don’t joke about this Gilda!”

“Sorry, just trying to lighten the mood.”

“Well it’s not helping!”

“Okay, you need to chill right about now.”

“How am I supposed to chill?! Do you even KNOW what what happened to me ?!”

“No, I don’t, but still…”

“Then just leave me alone!”

******

“That ‘old friend’ you went to see is dating that monster?” Rarity asked.

“Pretty much.” Dash replied.

“And she’s Scootaloo’s legal guardian?” Fluttershy asked.

“Yup…”

“And she knows what he did,” Twilight asked.

“Eeyup.”

“And did he do something to Garuda?”

“No, that was my fault,” Gilda said. “He’s still a little scared from when I yelled at him.”

“Oh.”

“Yeah...I probably need to get him to bed.”

“Okay.”

“Yeah, I need to get some rest too,” Dash said.

“Okay, see you tomorrow, Rainbow.” Twilight answered. "But remember, we're here for you if you need us."

"Thanks..." And with that, Rainbow and Gilda left with Garuda in his mother’s arms.

******

Rainbow sat on Gilda's bed curled up into a ball. Her knees were up against her chest and her arms were wrapped around her legs. Tears continued to stream down her cheeks. “Why is this happening to me? What did I do?”

“You didn’t do anything wrong; that dweeb Citrus is a different story.”

“But why did he do this to me?”

“Because he’s a jerk.”

“Still…”

Gilda sighed before getting back to her book report. “Right now, I think your parents would be the best ones to help you.”

“You heard what I said, they’ll ground me if they find out.”

“You didn’t want to have sex with him to begin with. Again, big difference.”

“Still.”

“Look, if it’ll make you feel any better, I’ll come with you.”

“No, the last thing I want is for you to be involved in this.”

Gilda gave Rainbow a look. “Dash, I got involved the moment you walked up to my house. You really don’t have much of a choice here. Besides, if you don’t come clean, they will ground you for missing curfew. Plus, what if you get sick, or even have a baby?”

Rainbow thought it over. “Kinda does seem lose-lose, doesn’t it… Alright, you can call them…”

Gilda immediately got her phone and dialed Firefly’s number…

******

Rainbow and Gilda walked into the house. They were the only two people in the room, save for Garuda who was now in Rainbow’s arms. Rainbow handed Garuda to his mother before heading straight for the bathroom. Gilda sat on the couch thinking about what had happened tonight.

Tonight was supposed to have been perfect, but what had happened was a living nightmare. What’s worse, other than Garuda’s having to witness the argument unfold, was knowing that one of her best friends was dating the very pony that assaulted Rainbow Dash. Some friend she was! What could have possessed Skywishes to even think about seeing this guy?

RING! RING!

That was the sound of Gilda’s cell phone. She picked it up and took a look at it. It was Skywishes. She declined the call and set the phone down, but it rang again. Gilda let the phone ring a few times before it finally stopped. Gilda gave a sigh of relief before it rang a third time! Frustrated, she grabbed the phone and answered in a gruff tone, “What?”

“Gilda, it’s Skywishes.”

“I know. Could we just cut to the chase?”

“I just want you to know that Citrus really has changed.”

“Right… And I’m Griffenyellow.”

“Still a fan of that show I see.”

“Yep, and at least they don’t date sex offenders.”

“Gilda...that was a long time ago… and he HAS changed.”

“Maybe he has, but why are you of all ponies  giving him a chance?”

“Maybe cuz he deserves one?”

“How does he ‘deserve’ one?”

“I dunno, you tell me Little Miss Prostitute.”

Gilda slammed her fist down on the table ,“I might have been a prostitute, but at least the people I did it with wanted to do it, and I didn’t beat the snot out of them and then take pictures of it and sell them to my friends.”

“Gilda, look, he was a teenager. We did dumb stuff as teenagers, didn’t we?”

“Maybe. But his ‘dumb stuff’ scarred my best friend to the point she ran away. We’re lucky she wasn’t pregnant or worse.”

*****

Shortly after the phone call, Gilda heard the doorbell. “I’ll get it. Unless you’d like to.”

“Y-you can come…”

Both girls headed downstairs to the door. “Ready, Dash?”

“Y-yeah…”

Gilda opened the door and Firefly ran in. She instantly wrapped her arms around Rainbow Dash. “Dash!”

“M-mom…I-I’m sorry.”

Firefly ended the embrace and gave her a strange expression. “You have nothing to be sorry for. NOTHING.”

“But…I-”

“Dashie… Let’s get you home and we can talk about it tomorrow.”

Rainbow nodded, then turned to Gilda, then turned back to her mom, “Um…could Gilda come over for…a while?”

“Um…are your parents still out of town?” Firefly asked Gilda.

“Yup. They’ll be back at the end of the month.”

“Ah…well, would you like to come over?”

“Sure. But let me get some extra clothes, first.”

*****

“Gilda… Can I tell you something?” Skywishes asked.

“Why would you want to tell something to a prostitute?” Gilda replied, sarcastically.

“Gilda… Look, did you know Citrus’ parents died?”

“Hmm… Can’t really say I’m upset.”

“Well, Citrus inherited their estate-“

“Figures. Must be why you’re dating him.”

“Would you just-” Skywishes paused for a few moments, “He really enjoyed it for a while, having all that, but then when he stopped

partying, drinking, and started thinking about his life…”

“He found religion?”

Skywishes sighed, “He locked himself up in his parents’ house and almost killed himself.”

“If only…” Gilda muttered.

“But…for some reason I went over…still not entirely sure why…and I managed to convince him not to do it..”

“So…you saved the life of the man who ruined your friend’s life.”

“Gilda- Anyway, back to the present: He wants to apologize to Rainbow.”

“And why do you think she’ll believe him?”

Skywishes sighed, “Just meet Citrus at the park tomorrow… He’ll explain everything when you get there.”

“Wait a minute, you expect me to willingly walk up to the one who ruined my best friend’s life.”

“If he does try something on you, then you may do with him as you please, but all I’m asking you to do is take that leap of faith for

just a few minutes.”

“And if he really has changed?”

“Then it’s all up to Rainbow Dash. If she’s still not convinced, then so be it. We’ll just stay out of your lives.”

Gilda thought about it for a few minutes.

“I’m sure it wasn’t easy for Rainbow Dash to give you another chance, right?”

“Well… No, and if it weren’t for Garuda, I would have still been on the streets.”

“Didn’t that give you a reason to change?”

“It did.”

“And if it weren’t for me, Citrus would have just been another pony who took his own life before it was his time. Not only that, but he would have never shown the change that he made now.”

There was silence before…

“Alright, when do you want me to meet up with him?”

“At three-O’clock. He’ll explain everything there.”

“Alright.”

Both pony and griffon hung up.

Rainbow Dash immediately walked out of the bathroom wrapped in a towel. Another towel was wrapped around her mane as the steam was exiting the bathroom. She looked over at Gilda. “Who was that?”

Gilda was beginning to have mixed feelings. Should she tell Dash about the call, or should she keep it a secret for now?

“Well?”

“It was just some salespony. Pretty annoying if you ask me.”

“Yeah… very…”

Maybe she should change the subject. “So how are you feeling?”

“A little better.”

“That’s good. Just don’t worry about that dweeb, everything’ll work itself out.”

“Yeah…”

“By the way, I’m still long overdue on that ‘I told you so’.”

Rainbow raised an eyebrow. “Since when?”

“Since he-”

Rainbow glared at Gilda playfully. “You liar! You said that when Mom took me home.”

“Oh well, I was still right.”

“Yeah, at least there are still ponies who do care about me.”

“Yeah, and about those five other ponies…”

“Yeah?”

“Don’t EVER leave them, because once you push them away, you’ll regret it. Believe me, I know.”

Rainbow smiled. “Don’t worry, I won’t.”

Chapter 26

Rumble sat on the couch wearing a tank top and sweat pants, watching television. He was waiting for his brother Thunderlane to get home to the apartment they shared with his brother’s girlfriend, Blossomforth…who also wasn’t home yet. Rumble probably figured that both of them were working late at their respective jobs. Thunderlane worked as a weather pony, and Blossomforth worked at a florist shop.

He wondered if maybe he should go to bed, since it was already eleven and he had school in the morning…but at the same time, he really needed to talk to Thunderlane before tomorrow. He had had a crush on Scootaloo for a long time, and now that he was in a club with her, he had a better chance at asking her on a date…

But that was the thing he needed help with: He wasn’t sure he could muster up the nerve to ask her out.

But after a couple minutes, the apartment door opened and Blossomforth entered. She was wearing a green sweater, red skirt, and tennis shoes. She almost instantly noticed that Rumble was still up. “Rumble…why are you still up?” She asked, obviously pretty worn out.

“Um…just waiting for Thunderlane,” Rumble replied.

“Why?”

“Uh… I just wanted to ask him something?”

Blossomforth walked into the kitchen and opened the refrigerator, “Couldn’t you ask him in the morning?”

“Um…not really…”

Blossomforth pulled out a salad and closed the fridge door. “Why can’t you?”

“It’ll be too late…”

“Well…can you ask me?”

“N-not really…”

“Why?”

“Well…no offense…but you’re a girl.”

Blossomforth gave Rumble a look. “What does that have to do with anything?”

“Well…Um…I just needed some advice. Guy advice.”

Blossomforth thought for a few moments, then. “Well, I guess you can stay up, as long as he’s in a good mood. But go to bed as soon as you’ve asked him.”

“Deal,” Rumble sat back and continued watching TV.

After waiting for almost an hour, Thunderlane made it to the apartment. He saw Rumble on the couch almost instantly. He walked

over and sat next to his younger brother on the couch. “Hey, what are you doing up so late?”

Rumble turned to look at him, “Waiting for you to get here, actually.”

“Oh?”

“Um…yeah… Can I ask you some advice?”

“Sure…but you could’ve asked me in the morning, I’d still be here by then.”

“I know, but I didn’t want to risk maybe you not being able to.”

“Oh…that important, huh?”

“Yeah… Well…Um… There’s this girl at my school…”

“…Uh-huh…”

“And…I’ve had a crush on her since Middle School…”

“Ah… You want to tell her how you feel about her?”

“Yeah, she’s not seeing anyone that I know of, and…she might even like me back… But I just don’t know what to say, and I’m worried I’ll say the wrong thing and ruin any chance I had with her.”

Thunderlane chuckled, “Girls can be like that. But if you just be yourself, then you should be okay.”

“I know that, but isn’t there something else?”

“Yeah: Treat her like the most important person in the world.”

“Heh, yeah…”

“Oh, have you met her parents?”

“No…I don’t think she lives with her parents.”

“Oh…”

“Yeah…”

“Well, you’ve got that in common.”

“I guess. She also likes flying and she doesn’t have a cutie mark and-” Rumble yawned.

“Well, maybe you should get to bed.”

“Yeah… See ya tomorrow, Rumble.”

“Good night,” With that, Rumble went on to bed.

*****

Scootaloo lay in her bed. Her head was spinning. The argument between her aunt, her aunt’s boyfriend, her hero, and her hero’s friend had taken its toll on the teenager. She’d also have school in the morning and worry about dealing with Diamond Tiara, Silver Spoon, and how they’d deal with how she felt about Rumble.

Why did her life have to stink?

Scootaloo heard a knock at the door. “Who is it,” She moaned.

“It’s Skywishes.”

Scootaloo sighed, “Come in.”

The door opened and Skywishes came in. She sat down at the foot of Scootaloo’s bed. “I’m sorry you had to hear all that, and that it upset you so much.”

Scootaloo sat up, “I-I don’t know what to think… I thought Citrus was a pretty cool guy…But-”

“Scootaloo, would you say you’ve grown up since you were ten?”

“Um…yeah…”

“You’re a lot more mature and smarter, right?”

“Uh-huh…”

“Well, Citrus changed, too. He’s a lot more mature and smarter. He realized what he did was wrong and wants to apologize to Rainbow Dash for what he did.”

“Well, he sure took his sweet time…”

“Do you know how hard it is to apologize about something like that?”

“Maybe he shouldn’t’ve done it in the first place.”

“And he knows that, he can’t change the past, but he can try and make up for it, and start over.”

“I guess…but…what if he hasn’t…and…”

“He might hurt me?”

“Yeah.”

“Scoots…I thought long and hard about it, and, I think he learned from his mistake. In fact, he’s going to be starting a center for ponies who have been raped in Canterlot.”

Scootaloo didn’t say anything.

“Well, I should probably let you get to bed. See you tomorrow, sweetie.”

“Okay, good night, Auntie,” Scootaloo said.

“Good night, Scootaloo. Sleep well.”

“You, too.”

*****

The next morning, Scootaloo was walking to school with Applebloom. “So how’d that night go with your aunt and Ms. Rainbow?”

Applebloom asked.

“I don’t wanna talk about it.” Scootaloo replied, bitterly.

“That bad, huh?”

“Probably worse…but I don’t wanna talk about it.”

“Alright, just wonderin’.’ Applebloom paused for a few moments, “Wanna hear somethin’ weird?”

Scootaloo sighed, “Sure, why not?”

“Well…AJ came back real late last night and was grumblin’ about somethin’, couldn’t make it out, but after a while she came to my room and started asking weird questions.”

“Like?”

“Well… Like if I had a boyfriend, if there were any suspicious guys at school, if anypony took a liking to me… Stuff like that.”

“What did you say?”

“Ah told her the only ponies actin’ strange are Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon. Then she asked if any boys were. I told her ‘not any more weird than usual’.”

Scootaloo chuckled.

“Then she left. Weird, huh?”

“I guess.”

“Your aunt do anything like that?”

“Not really…”

“Oh… Still, wonder why AJ was doing all that….”

Scootaloo shrugged, “Think Rarity asked Sweetie all those questions?”

“Do you really wanna ask her?”

“Um…I guess not?”

“It’s up to you. Ah’m gonna stay out of it.”

“Gee, thanks.”

“What?”

“Well…she’s a unicorn, she’s learning magic from Twilight, so she could send me to the moon or something.”

“That’s just Princess Celestia.”

“Never know…”

When the girls arrived at their school, they could see Sweetie Belle exiting her sister’s silver Mazda Miata. “Hey, Sweetie,” Applebloom greeted.

She held up a finger, indicating to wait.

Applebloom looked at Scootaloo, who shrugged. When the car left, Sweetie Belle groaned. “My sister has officially gone INSANE.”

“Huh?” Both Scootaloo and Applebloom said in unison.

“She was bugging me last night about the WORST. POSSIBLE. THING!”

Her friends looked at each other again.

Sweetie Belle sighed. “She asked if I’ve had sex.”

“Oh…” Applebloom swallowed.

“Uh…wow…Um…” Scootaloo scratched her head.

“Can you believe her?! I mean, I’m not even dating anyone, DOESN’T SHE KNOW THAT?! So why she’s- Ugh!”

“And I thought I had it bad…” Applebloom thought.

“Yeah…” Scootaloo mumbled, while thinking, ‘Do they know about Rainbow and Citrus?’

*****

Gilda was flying to Fluttershy’s cottage with Garuda in her arms. Rainbow Dash is to resume her duty as a weather pony, but Gilda needed someone else to watch Garuda, and for a good reason too: she agreed to meet with the very pony who ruined Rainbow Dash’s life. Even though Skywishes is dating him, Gilda isn’t about to trust Citrus with her child. After all, the fact that Rainbow was

Gilda’s best friend, didn’t stop her from bullying other ponies. She was not about to take a chance now.

She landed in front of Fluttershy’s cottage and knocked on the door. Apparently, she knocked too hard because she heard a faint “Eep!” Gilda withdrew her hand.

“Sorry,” she said.

“It’s okay,” Fluttershy said, “You just startled me. Uh… Who is it?”

“It’s Gilda.”

The door opened, revealing Fluttershy standing behind it timidly. “Hello, Gilda,” She looked at Garuda and softly smiled, “Um...how is Garuda doing, if  you don’t mind telling me, that is.”

“He’s doin’ alright. Had quite a scare last night though.”

“I don’t blame him. I would be too if I overheard a fight at his age.”

“Yeah...and that’s kinda why I came over...I was wondering if you’d mind looking after him.”

“Sure, but why?”

“I’d rather not say, at least not yet.”

“Um...Okay…”

“Yeah… I kinda have that feeling that Dash wouldn’t be cool with what I’m about to do.”

“Um...Okay…”

“Anyway, I should be back in a few hours.”

“Okay… Be careful…”

“Thanks…” Gilda smiled at Garuda, “Be good for Fluttershy, okay?”

Garuda reached out for his mother.

“Don’t worry; I’ll be back before you know it.”

Garuda still stretched his arms, and looked like he was about to burst into tears.

Gilda kissed his forehead. “Don’t worry, I won’t be gone forever. Besides, you’ll love Fluttershy.”

This seemed to calm Garuda a bit, after all, his mom seemed to trust this pony, so maybe he could, too.

“I assume he’s already had a nap?”

“Yeah, he got up before we left. His diaper’s been changed and…” Gilda started digging in her purse, and soon brought out a bottle, a diaper, and a bag of wipes, “These are just in case.”

“I’m sure you will… Thanks again.” Gilda smiled, before she waved at both of them and left.

*****

Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, and Applebloom were in the lunch room, sitting at the table, eating lunch like everyone else in the room. Sweetie Belle was still feeling upset about her sister’s conversation last night. “Who in Equestria DOES THAT, I mean-”

Applebloom interrupted Sweetie Belle’s tirade, “Hey, AJ asked me ‘bout it, too.”

“But did she flat out ask you if you’ve slept with anyone?”

“Well…no…”

“Didn’t think so.”

“Uh…” Rumble stood near the table, holding his tray of food.

“Oh…uh…Hey Rumble…” Scootaloo tried to brush some hair out of her face, secretly trying to hide her red cheeks. “Wanna join us?”

“I…think I do… Sounds kinda…um…”

“Yeah…it is pretty bad…”

“I guess your parents didn’t grill you on your sex life, did they?” Sweetie Belle asked Rumble.

A chill went through Rumble’s spine when he heard the word ‘parents’. But he shook it off and replied, “No… Unless me asking Thunderlane about-” Rumble remembered that Scootaloo was sitting right there, and it might be awkward if he said what he had talked about with Thunderlane. “Um… Never mind.”

“Yeah… Privacy… A concept Rarity hasn’t heard of, obviously.” Sweetie groaned.

“Ugh! Can we please change the subject?” Applebloom pleaded.

“Fine…” Sweetie turned to Scootaloo, “How’d last night go?”

“I’d rather not talk about it…”

“Did your Aunt do the same thing Rarity did?”

“No… But it was still pretty bad…”

“Okay…” Sweetie Belle took another bite of her burrito.

“Well, hello Cutie Mark Crusaders.” Silver Spoon, wearing skinny jeans, a jacket with the high school colors and team logo on the back and on the right of her chest, her signature purple glasses, and tennis shoes, greeted.

“What do you want, Silver Spoon? Or are you doing your master’s business?” Scootaloo joked.

Silver Spoon shot a glare at the pegasus. “I’m here to talk to Sweetie Belle.”

Sweetie Belle looked up at Silver Spoon like she was crazy. “Why the heck do you wanna talk to me?”

“Look,” Silver sat down at the last empty chair. “I’m here to ask if you wanna join the cheerleading squad.”

Sweetie Belle still looked at Silver as if she were insane, “…Why?”

“Well, one of the girls, who will remain anonymous, had to drop out and we needed a new member. So we asked all the football players who they thought the cutest girl in school was that wasn’t on the cheerleading squad. And you were number one.”

The Cutie Mark Crusaders all looked at the second string quarterback, AKA Rumble.

“Rumble didn’t vote, girls.” Silver Spoon rubbed her head, “But, still, do you want to join or not?”

“I dunno, Silver Spoon. Cheerleading’s not really my thing.”

“Well… Think about it, okay?”

“I…guess I will…”

Silver Spoon did the unthinkable: She smiled, “Okay. Thanks. It’s only for one game, and it’s a home game. So… Yeah. Oh! And you’ll get a free jacket.” Silver Spoon glanced behind her and saw Diamond Tiara standing with her food, giving Silver Spoon a glare.

“Well, I gotta go. See ya.”

“Okay…see ya, Silver.” Sweetie said, before taking another bite of her burrito.

“That was…weird.” Applebloom noted.

“Yeah… Do you know anything ‘bout this, Rumble?” Scootaloo asked, a hint of_____ in her voice.

“Contrary to popular belief,” Rumble said with his mouth full, “We football players don’t hang out with cheerleaders much.”

“Sure…”

“I meant Silver Spoon.” Sweetie Belle pointed out.

“…Oh…”

“She’s pretty dedicated to the cheerleading squad. Least, that’s what a friend of mine said. She probably just doesn’t want to let ‘em down.” Rumble took a quick drink, “Not to mention she’s up for captain next year.”

“Hmm…” Applebloom deviously smiled, “Ya know… If ya said ‘no’…then she might not be able to be captain…and that’d be pretty bad.”

Sweetie shook her head, “As much as I’d love to get back at her, I wouldn’t say ‘no’ for that reason. And besides, must’ve been pretty tough to even ask me.”

“I guess… But she was still mean to us…”

*****

“What are we doing here, Gilda?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“I wish I knew,” Gilda mumbled.

“Huh?”

“Err… We’re here to meet someone.”

Rainbow frowned, “This isn’t some attempt at a blind date, is it?”

“No, farthest thing from it.”

“Okay…” Dash gave her friend an odd look.

Eventually, they saw two figures approaching them. Rainbow Dash couldn’t figure out who they were, at first, but when she identified the taller one, a wave of emotion came over her. She didn’t know if she should scream, run, ask Gilda what the hay was going on, kick the guy in his special area (a trick she had learned from her mother), or do all four.

Unfortunately, she did none of these- she froze. She started sweating; her wings instinctively pulled close to her back, and she felt like she was going to throw up.

When they had finally come close enough to carry on a conversation, Rainbow couldn’t look at Citrus anymore, there were too many emotions. “What is he doing here,” Rainbow demanded from Gilda.

“Just…trust me, okay, Dash?” Gilda said, looking at Rainbow.

“How can you do this to me?! You’re supposed to be my friend!” Rainbow shouted, “Friends DON’T do this!”

“Rainbow-” Citrus started.

“SHUT UP!!” Rainbow suddenly punched Citrus’s jaw with such force; it knocked him to the ground. But before he could get back up, Rainbow jumped on him and pinned him to the ground buy his neck. “DO YOU KNOW WHAT YOU DID TO ME?!?!?!” She asked, unaware of the tears streaming down her cheeks.

“I-I…I’m sorry.”

“SORRY ISN’T GOOD ENOUGH! I’m lucky to be ALIVE!”

There were tears starting to form in Citrus’s eyes, “I know, I’m sooo sorry. What I did was unforgivable-“

Rainbow punched him in the jaw again.

“Rainbow!” Skywishes yelled.

“THAT’S an understatement.” She stood back up, but kept a foot on his chest. “I hope you die,” She whispered, through tears, before flying off towards her home.

Chapter 1

"Rainbow Dash!" Applejack yelled, cupping her hands over her mouth in order for her voice to carry to her friend, who was currently sitting on a thick apple tree branch.

Rainbow, from her place on the tree, also cupped her hands over her mouth and shouted back. "What?!"

"Y'all mind NOT sittin' on mah family's property?"

"Aww, that's sweet! You're concerned about me, but I ain't gonna fall with these babies." Rainbow flexed her wings, causing a few leaves to fall to the ground.

"Ugh!" In anger, Applejack kicked a nearby tree, causing a number of apples to fall.

Rainbow rolled her eyes and jumped off the limb, landing on her feet. She pulled up her jeans and pulled down her shirt, (though her bare stomach could still be seen) walking over to Applejack, who was tossing the apples in a nearby basket. "So can we get goin' now? My baby's probably done by now."

Rainbow's "baby" was her year old, red and black Chevrolet Camaro...Which she blew every dime she had on upgrades.

"Yeah, yeah, lemme put these apples away then we c'n go."

Rainbow leaned against another tree and kicked it gently, sending a green apple directly into her palm. Applejack looked over at her friend and saw her munching on the green apple. "Just what in tarnation are y'all doin'?"

Rainbow swallowed a big chunk of apple. "What?"

"Do ya mind askin' first?"

"But I thought we were family?" Dash said in a sarcastic tone.

Applejack pressed her fingers to her temples. "Dash..."

"Uh-huh?"

"Sometimes you're a real pain in the-"

"Applejack!" Big Mac called out to his little sister.

"What?!" Applejack called back.

"Granny Smith needs y'all." Big Mac said, appearing before the girls, wearing dirty brown boots, jeans, and no shirt.

"I gotta take Dashie to the garage." Applejack explained, resting a hand on her waist. "She helped me with gettin' the apples and ah kinda owe her."

Big Mac nodded. "Alright, but ya need to get back here when you're done."

"Uh-huh." Big Mac waved as he left in the direction of the house.

Applejack reached into her shorts pocket and grabbed her keys, holding them in her hand. "Ready Dash?"

"Yeah, yeah." Rainbow followed closely behind her friend in the general direction of Applejack's black 70s BOS 302.

*****

After dropping Dash off at the garage, Applejack was on her way back home to find out whatever it was Granny Smith wanted her for. She gently turned the steering wheel on the black muscle car onto the dirt road that led to her house. It was getting late so she had her headlights on, the beams of light went ahead of her to show the dirt road. Applejack was so used to driving the road however she could drive through the entire thing blindfolded. (Not to mention the races she and Dash had along the road didn't hurt)

But suddenly the beams of light came across a body. 'What in tarnation?' Applejack slowed the car down and saw that it was the farm hand, Caramel. His hands were in his pockets and he looked pretty depressed. Being the country girl she was, AJ drove over to his left and called out. "Hey, Caramel?"

Caramel looked over at the girl in the car, but didn't respond.

"Are y'all right?" Applejack asked.

Caramel just shrugged and continued walking in his depressed state.

Applejack groaned and charged ahead of the yellow earth pony, suddenly jerking the whole car sideways, blocking the road. Caramel stopped, then glared at Applejack, who glared right back.

"Do you mind?" Caramel asked.

"Tell me what's eatin' ya and I'll move."

"It's none of your business." Applejack heard the faintest sniff after he said that.

"Isn't it?"

"No! Now just leave me alone!"

"Well if y'all wanna be alone why'd'ja come here?"

"Maybe cuz I'm just some stupid depressed twenty-six year old who can't keep any of his relationships! THERE! YA HAPPY?!?!?!"

Applejack looked at him. It was dark so she couldn't make much out, but he sounded like he was crying. After a few minutes, Applejack turned the car off and got out of the car, walking towards the man. She looked at him for a few moments, managing to see his teary eyes. "What happened, sugarcube?"

Caramel bit the inside of his mouth, unsure of telling his boss about the unfortunate incident. But before he knew what happened, he felt a feeling of warmth enter his body. Curious, he looked down and saw Applejack, hugging him. A large blush came across the yellow earth pony's cheeks, the thought of being hugged by the (rather attractive) cowgirl.

Caramel wasn't sure how to react. His problem weighed heavily on his mind, but the hug from his co-worker helped quite a bit. She didn't even know what his problem was, but there she was, giving him comfort. They barely even knew each other, but she still cared. Fresh tears began to flow down his already wet cheeks as he continued biting the inside of his mouth, not noticing notice the pain.

Applejack finally broke the hug, but looked Caramel in the eye. "Do you need a ride home?"

Caramel didn't feel comfortable telling Applejack that one of his problems was losing his home, even though it wasn't exactly his, which was a reason he didn't want to tell her. "I-I think I can get there."

"Are ya sure?"

Caramel managed a nod, and quietly muttered. "Thanks, though."

"Sure, Caramel." Applejack gave Caramel another hug, and got back in her car, waving as she drove off.

Applejack looked back at Caramel, he still seemed upset. Part of her wanted to know why he was so upset, but on the other hand, she didn't want to upset him even more by asking, and it wasn't really any of her business anyway. Besides, she hardly knew Caramel. He mostly kept to himself when they worked. When he had gotten the job at Sweet Apple Acres five years ago, before Twilight and Spike had even come to Ponyville, Applejack noticed how, well, cute the yellow earth pony looked. He wasn't half as muscular as Big Macintosh, and on the occasions when it got so hot Caramel took his shirt off, he looked rather thin.

Despite all this, Applejack could confess she used to have a crush on her co-worker, but she managed to hide it well all those years ago. Fortunately though, she had gotten over her crush. She realized that she didn't have time for boys at that point in her life, maybe some day she would manage to slow down, get married, and have a few kids. Though now wasn't a good time, she had a farm to take care of.

Still...

Chapter 6

Princess Celestia was walking out of her bathroom in a bathrobe. She was never able to arrange to see Luna’s new friend because she and Luna were caught up in the panic of her letter to Twilight being sent to Spike by mistake! While they managed to eventually calm down, there was still restlessness between the two.

She sat down at the chair by her vanity and began brushing her hair, she was trying to figure out how to solve this issue, she also worried that it could split their friendship apart. Just then, a letter appeared. She opened it and saw that it was from Spike. It read:

Dear Princess Celestia,

Your letter came a little late. Twilight grounded me for two weeks and made a scene at Carousel Boutique.  I think she and Rarity might have ruined their friendship because of me. I feel horrible, that their friendship was ruined by me. Why couldn’t I keep my big mouth shut?

If you think I feel bad, Twilight’s even worse. The reason why she didn’t write this letter is because she cried herself to sleep. I-I feel horrible, I can’t do anything right, why can’t I? I didn’t used to be like this but- what happened to me?!

Please help,

Spike

Celestia dropped the letter and fell to her knees. She felt like crying at this point knowing that her efforts have failed. ‘This cannot happen! If their friendship disintegrates...’

Celestia heard a knock at the door. She got up and straightened her bathrobe, “Who is it?” She asked, trying to keep her voice from cracking.

“It’s me, Tia, I brought that someone with me.”

“Oh. Um… Just one moment.” She immediately walked to her closet and looked for a decent nightgown to wear. She eventually found one that wasn’t too revealing and slipped off her bathrobe, quickly putting on the nightgown. “Come in!” Celestia called.

Luna opened the door, wearing a blue, strapless, starry dress and heels. The man with her, was wearing a nice black suit, a white shirt, and a red tie. “Good evening, Princess Celestia,” he greeted.

“Good evening,” she greeted back.

“This is Eclipse,” Luna explained.

“Oh, it’s a pleasure to meet you, Eclipse. I’m sorry for my current state, I didn’t realize you’d be coming.”

“Oh, I’m sorry, Luna wanted me to meet her big sister, so I couldn’t refuse.”

“It’s alright, I’ve been wanting to see the man my sister’s been talking about non-stop for since yesterday.”

Luna blushed, lightly hitting Celestia with her purse.

Celestia was starting to feel better, but her mind still wasn’t at peace. Nevertheless, she couldn’t ruin this for her sister. Her efforts were starting to fail as the signs were becoming more obvious to Luna. “Are you alright, Tia?”

Celestia was brought out of her trance, “Um, yes, I’m fine, Lu-lu. So…” Celestia used her magic to pull up the chair from her vanity and sat down, “How did you two meet?”

“Well, I was browsing in the library looking for some books that would aid me in practicing art forms. When I went to grab for my last book, I did not notice him until I felt his fingertips on the back of my hand.”

‘How romantic!’ Celestia thought.

It was Eclipse’s turn to speak. “Next thing you know, I find myself in a fine restaurant with her and we’re talking about each other.”

“I see, so you’ve already been on your first date, Luna?” Celestia asked, teasingly, her mood getting better.

“I don’t know if I’d call it a date…” Eclipse explained.

“It wasn’t a date, we were just...eating at a restaurant together.” Luna added.

“What do you call a date,” Celestia asked while smirking with a raised eyebrow.

“Um...When a man and a woman go to a public place-”

“Like a restaurant?” Celestia teased.

Luna sighed, “Well, if it will appease you, I would call what we did tonight a ‘date’.”

“I see,” Celestia’s smirk disappeared and looked into Eclipse’s eyes, “You had better take good care of my sister and not-”

“Tia! I am a grown woman!” Luna exclaimed, “I do not need to be treated like a teenager.”

“Uh huh,” Celestia replied.

"Don't worry, your majesty. Luna already threatened me," Eclipse chuckled.

"Good,"

Eclipse looked at his watch, "I'd better get going; Solaris will get mad at me if I’m late."

"Solaris?" Celestia asked.

“He’s my roommate and best friend.”

"Oh, I see. Perhaps sometime I could meet him?"him?”

“Maybe I can arrange something. Anyway, I guess I’ll see you two later.”

"I will walk you out, Eclipse." Luna offered.

“Oh, I couldn’t trouble you with that.”

"No, I insist."

“I can’t let you walk back alone.”

“Nonsense! I'm sure I've learned my sister's castle by now."

Eclipse chuckled. “Okay, I give up.”

“Huzzah!” Luna squeed, she motioned Eclipse to follow her. Eclipse nodded and walked beside her.

Celestia waited until the two were out of her sight before she looked back at the letter. Her heart ached for Twilight and Spike after what she had recently read. Her mind wandered to when Twilight had began taking care of Spike when he had just hatched. The two had a special relationship; Twilight treated Spike like her own child. She fed him, changed his diapers, and even helped him get to sleep. It tore Celestia up inside to see that beautiful relationship ruined over a misunderstanding.

She had to fix this.

She took her pen and the back of Spike’s letter and wrote this note:

Lu-Lu,

I am going to be taking my leave to Ponyville for tomorrow. The reason for this visit is seen on the back of this note. I will return once the problem has been rectified.

Sincerely,

Tia

*****

Spike lay on his bed, his face buried in a pillow. Not one second went by where he would look up. Tears were occasionally sliding down his cheeks, he felt horrible. Could it get any worse?

Suddenly, Spike heard a knock on the door, ‘What? I thought Twilight went to bed.’ He got up and opened the door. Standing before him was white Earth pony with pink hair, wearing a pink sweater, jeans, and tennis shoes. “Um...Why are you in our house?”

The girl looked down at herself. “Oh! Hold on.” She snapped her fingers and instantly changed into Princess Celestia.

“What the-? How did you do that? You’re not a Changeling, are you?”

Celestia giggled at the reaction, “No, it’s me. It’s a spell that some alicorns can execute with a little discipline and patience.”

“Oh...That must be fun!”

“It is. The spell was actually created in response to the changelings. But enough about that...I need to talk to you about something.”

“Oh…”

“I received your letter.” Celestia explained.

“Yeah…”

“What happened?”

“It’s all my fault.”

Spike began explaining what had happened the previous day, trying hard not to tear up. It was obvious to Celestia how bad he felt, so when he finished, she embraced him in a large hug.

“What’s wrong with me?”

“There’s nothing wrong with you, Spike. You’re still the same kind, sweet, caring dragon you always were.”

“But why am I acting this way? Why am I being this way? I-”

“Spike, I think this is something Twilight needs to talk to you about, but It’ll have to wait until she cheers up.”

"I guess..."

“But the main thing that you need to know is that you are not to blame for the incident; You were going through a phase you knew nothing about. In fact, I would be concerned if you weren’t so moody.”

“You would be?”

She nodded, “It would have meant that you weren’t growing.”

"Not again! I don't wanna be a large, ugly, greedy dragon."

Celestia shook her head and said, “It’s not just dragons that go through that phase. In fact, every creature experienced that level of moodiness at some point in their lives. I’ve even gone through that phase.”

Spike stared at Celestia in disbelief. "You have?"

Celestia merely nodded. "And so have Twilight, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Applejack."

"What about Pinkie?"

Celestia thought about that one, ‘Did she?'

“What’s going on?” A voice moaned. Celestia and Spike looked over and saw Twilight, wearing long purple PJ pants, a pink tank top, and a pink sweater. Her eyes widened upon seeing her teacher. “Princess Celestia?!?! Wh-what are you doing here? The library’s a mess! I’m a mess!”

“Twilight, calm down.”

“Okay.” Twilight stopped, but continued sweating.

“Can I talk with you in your room?”

“Uh, sure!”

Twilight guided Celestia to her room. It was neatly organized, as always, but the one thing that was out of place was the fact that it was littered with used tissues. Celestia was careful to watch her step. "I'm sorry about the mess, I planned to clean it up, but I fell asleep."

"It's fine Twilight." Celestia coaxed, "In the state you're in, I wouldn't have bothered."

“Wait, how did you know? I never sent a letter to you after I got yours.”

“You didn’t, but Spike did. He was pretty upset when he wrote it.”

“I would imagine. Do you think I did the right thing grounding him?”

“Well, perhaps a bit of discipline was needed, but don’t be too harsh on him.”

“I-I feel so stupid! I should’ve seen it, he’s at that age. If I had only-”

“Twilight, you didn’t know. How could you?”

“But I should have known! There are all these books in here and I’m sure there’s one on puberty that I have read before.”

“Twilight…” Celestia placed her hand on Twilight’s shoulder.

Twilight looked back at her, fresh tears streaking down her cheeks. Celestia pulled Twilight into a hug, pulling the girl close, Twilight began to cry. Celestia did her best to keep her composure, but was failing miserably. Soon, she began crying, too. “Oh Twilight, I’m sorry.”

Spike had heard the crying and peeked into the room. He saw that the two were crying and hugging and thought it best if he left, but as he was- “Spike?”

Spike turned to see Twilight, now standing up, a warm smile on her face. “We need to talk about something.”

Spike walked over to Twilight. “Listen,” he started to say, “I’m sorry for what happened yesterday. I didn’t mean to-”

Twilight pulled Spike into a hug, surprising the young dragon. "Spike, I'm the one who should be sorry, I acted prematurely, if I had just talked to you and not yelled at you, we might not have had this. Will you forgive me?"

"If you forgive me."

“Deal.”

Celestia smiled knowing that she had accomplished what she had come to do.

Chapter 24

Gilda was in the middle of feeding Garuda, for the umpteenth time. She started wondering if she was this much of a bottomless pit when she was a baby. She knew griffons were naturally good eaters...but this was insane! True, she was only giving him vegetables, but...why was he so hungry?

It wasn’t long before a certain blue pegasus walked into the bedroom. “So how’s Garuda doing?”

“Hungry.” Gilda replied.

“Still?”

“Yeah…”

“Where does it all go?”

“His diaper.”

The only thing to come out of Dash’s mouth after that answer was a small gag.

“You did it too, ya know.”

“But still, not a good thing to mention while he’s eating.”

“Well, he doesn’t really mind.”

Rainbow Dash started to say something, but decided to hold her tongue. “Anyway, do you remember Skywishes?”

“How could I forget her? Haven’t talked to her in years though...why?”

“Well, I found out that she is the legal guardian to a filly I hang out with.”

“Oh. She lives in Ponyville?”

“She does actually.”

“Wow. Cool, I really want to talk with her again.”

“Well, she wants to meet us for dinner tonight.”

“Oh...Hmm...I hope Garuda will let us visit a bit.”

“Hopefully he will. Besides, Skywishes would love to meet him.”

“Oh...you told her about my situation?”

“No, I just figured that she would.”

“Oh… Hey, do you know if she’s...married or dating someone?”

“She’s dating someone.”

“Ah...do you know who?”

“I have no clue who it is, but I’m sure he’s nice.”

“Better be, I don’t want Skywishes dating some creep.”

“Yeah. Especially if she’s watching a filly.”

“Well...Skywishes is a smart girl, she wouldn’t date a creep like some of the guys I...met.”

Rainbow’s eyes widened.

“What? It was before I had Garuda.”

“I hope so…”

“Anyway, where does she want us to meet?”

“Well, just to meet up with us again, and introduce us to her boyfriend.”

“Okay… And if things go wrong?”

“What’s to go wrong?”

“Anything…”

“Only way it could go wrong is if her boyfriend’s a Wonderbolt.”

“But wouldn’t that be a good thing?”

“I might start hitting on him.”

“Oh…” A small giggle left her beak.

“What?”

"Nothing… But I bet you're hoping he’s wearing one of those uniforms.”

“Yeah...better believe I am.”

“I see the problem…”

“And what would that be?”

“You tryin’ to steal Skywishes boy."

“Am not!”

"Not even if he's wearing one of those skin tight Wonderbolts uniforms that'll show off his butt real well?"

“It would make him look hot, but I wouldn’t go after him like that.”

"Sure..."

"I'm just not really into big guys."

"So you like nerdy, skinny boys?"

Rainbow shrugged, "I liked how they reacted when I talked to 'em in High School."

"Probably didn't help that you were the only girl who'd ever give them the time of day."

“True.”

"And you were one of the prettier girls back then, only behind yours truly."

“Yeah, but I was twenty percent cooler.”

Gilda rolled her eyes. "Everyone was a pony, if you went to a griffon school they'd be too busy drooling over me to notice you."

“But what if I did a sonic rainboom? I know griffons can’t do that.”

"Eh...you're too small for a griffon; griffon's like their girls big."

“What if one of those griffons happens to be a nerd?” Rainbow smirked at that comment.

"Do you really think there's be a nerdy griffon?"

“Every species has to have a nerd.”

"But a griffon...nerd... That's almost an oxymoron."

“I met one that was a pastry chef.”

Gilda gave her friend a look, "Please tell me you did not flirt with him."

“Hay no!”

"Good. That'd be weird."

“No kidding. On the bright side, his eclairs were good.”

"Uh huh..."

“I need to shut up about that now, don’t I.”

“Oh yeah.”

Rainbow sighed, "Well, we need to get over to Rarity's."

“What for?”

"We're going to a fancy restaurant and you'll need a dress."

“Oh. Well, as long as I don’t look ridiculous.”

******

Rarity was scribbling down Gilda's measurements. After she ran those measurements through her head, she had that feeling that she was going to need more fabric. Hopefully she’ll get lucky and finish both dresses.

Gilda meanwhile, was slipping back into her jeans. "Is this really necessary?"

Rainbow replied, “Do you want the dress to squeeze you to death?”

“Um… No…”

"Then it's necessary."

"Okay…” Once Gilda was dressed, she put Garuda back in her arms.

"Maybe Garuda should get a tux, huh? You'd look pretty handsome, wouldn't ya?" Gilda said in a babyish tone.

Both ponies looked at her.

"What? You'll do the same thing when your parents."

Rarity glanced at Rainbow who shrugged.

“Anyway, do you think you could make him a small tuxedo?”

Rarity scratched her head. "Erm...I suppose...but I'll need his measurements, too."

“Alright.” Gilda handed Garuda over to Rarity. "Just be careful."

"I will, Darling."

Gilda shivered at the term, “darling.”

After a few moments, Rarity returned with a crying Garuda. " Gilda’s maternal instinct kicked in. “What did you do to him?!”

"N-nothing." Rarity replied nervously, "I was just taking his measurements, but I guess he missed you..." Rarity turned away, obviously upset. "I-I'm sorry..."

Once Gilda took Garuda, he started to calm down.

“Huh… I guess I better let him get used to that.” She looked at Rarity. “I’m sorry. I just don’t want him to get hurt.”

"I understand...he did a lot for you."

“More than you’ll ever know…”

*****

"Twilight?" Spike asked.

"Yes?" Twilight replied. Both were sitting in the living room. Twilight was reading a book, and Spike was laying on the couch.

"Is it wrong?" He finally asked.

Twilight raised an eyebrow. "Is what wrong?"

"That I...like ponies more than dragons."

Twilight marked the page in her book and closed it. She sat up and said, “Well,  that answer varies from one pony, or dragon, griffon, ect. In my opinion, I think that it should be the person herself that should matter over the species.”

"So... You're okay with me dating pony girls instead of dragons?"

"I am." Twilight smiled.

Spike heaved a sigh of relief.

“But I would be careful around certain people who don’t really think that it’s a good idea. Some ponies have more than one way of showing their opinions.

"Like that group your sister was dealing with?"

Twilight shuddered at the thought. “Yeah… That…”

"Well... Maybe I should stay away from unicorns." Spike teased.

Twilight gave Spike a look.

"Just kidding."

"Uh-huh..."

“Um...that reminds me of something else…”

“And what would that be?”

Spike was about to reply, but didn’t say anything.

Twilight gave him a look, “Are you gonna ask?”

“Maybe some other time…”

“Okay. Are you sure?”

“Y-yeah...I’m sure.”

“Well… I’m here to talk if you need to.”

“Okay...thanks…”

“Sure.” Twilight grinned.

Spike looked like he was about to say something again, but didn’t.

“Spike… What is it?”

“Do you think I’m doing the right thing by breaking up with Rarity?”

“Well… What do you think?” Twilight asked.

Spike sighed, “I...I don’t know… I used to think she was so beautiful and that she was the perfect one for me...but ever since the...changeling…”

“Spike… I’m pretty sure Rarity wouldn’t rush a relationship with you, especially with this...but… If Rarity really cares for you, she won’t force it on you.”

“Maybe but that moment...”

“I know that was really hard, and I feel partially responsible since I told you how ‘it’ works. And if a changeling pretended to be Com- someone I had a crush on, I would be scared, too.”

“I bet…”

“But at the same time… love is never an easy thing, ask anypony.”

“Do you think that could happen with Comet Tail?”

“I hope not, but the sad thing is that there could be disputes at the least.”

"Well, in my opinion, he seems like a nice guy."

“He is, but it’ll take a long time for me to know him entirely.”

"Yeah... And who know, maybe you two'll end up tying the knot someday..."

“Maybe, but right now, we’re just friends.”

"Uh-huh..."

“Well, technically boyfriend and girlfriend, but nothing more.”

"Right. But I'm gonna have to set a ten o'clock curfew for your next date."

Twilight looked at Spike as if he were crazy.

"What? I don't want you two doing anything crazy or anything."

“Spike, I’m a grown mare. If I wanted to do something crazy, I’d do it.”

“Exactly.”

Twilight signed, "Have I done anything crazy in the eighteen years you've known me?"

"Do you really want me to answer that?"

“Surprise me.”

"Well... Remember when you were fifteen and you drank three cans of Dr. Lightning?"

“Oh yeah…”

"And them when you were seventeen wanted to bungee jump off the castle balcony?"

“It seemed fun at the time.”

“Don’t forget when you made all of Ponyville fall in love with your doll.”

Twilight looked at Spike flatly. “Really? That again?”

"Yes 'that again', now I'm nervous about letting you even go on dates. Who knows what you'll do."

“I won’t.”

"How can I be sure?"

“Because this time I’ll be more careful.”

"Well...you'll have to prove it."

“I will.”

"And no kissing till you're forty."

“Hey!”

"Do you know how easy it is to get sick from just a simple kiss?"

“Not unless you’re careful.”

“Uh huh…”

******

Gilda looked at herself in the mirror while wearing her new dress. It was made of black silk with a few rhinestones dispersed throughout the dress. “I feel ridiculous.”

“But at least you look nice,” Dash commented.

She sighed, “I suppose… But I’d feel more comfortable in my jeans.”

“It’s just for one night. after that, you can wear jeans all you want.”

“Good. Cuz this thing’s killing me. And I can take it off as soon as we get back, right?”

“Hey, Garuda’s not complaining about his tux.”

Gilda glanced over at her son, “Yeah, he’s asleep.”

“So he’s comfortable…”

Gilda rolled her eyes, “It’s still a while before we have to meet up with Skywishes, right?”

“Well, we need to get going pretty soon.”

“So you’re not wearing anything special?”

“No, I was just gonna break out the dress I wore at the Grand Galloping Gala.”

“WHAT?!” Rarity called out from another room. She dashed in with a white dress. “But I made you a new dress.”

Rainbow glanced at it, unsure. “Then again… I guess I could try that one on…”

*****

Rainbow looked at herself in the mirror. “I feel ridiculous.”

Gilda laughed at the irony. “And what were you saying about looking better?”

Rainbow shot Gilda a glare.

“You don’t like it?” Rarity asked.

“I didn’t say that, I just…” She was trying to find the right words to say.

“Uncomfortable?” Gilda asked.

“Well… kinda…”

“Is it too tight?” Rarity asked.

“Yeah, it’s a little tight around the waist.”

“Well...they’re the old measurements…”

“Then we might want to do those measurements again.”

“Uh-huh…” Rarity went back and got her notebook, pencil, and glasses.

Rainbow looked back at Gilda. “Looks like I won’t be able to wear the dress anyway.”

“So guess I’ll switch to my regular clothes.” Gilda pointed out.

“My, you’re both sooo grateful that I’m making you these free dresses.” Rarity noted.

Rainbow sighed, “Fine...we’ll wear the dresses.”

“Thank you,” Rarity smiled sweetly.

******

After about half an hour, Rainbow, Gilda, and Garuda were on their way to the restaurant in Rainbow’s Camaro. Gilda was still a little wary of being out in public considering what happened the last time she was in Ponyville. Hopefully no one would remember the incident...and that no one would ask about Garuda’s father.

“Ya feelin’ okay there, Gilda?”

“Y-yeah… Just thinking…”

“About what?”

“Garuda… I’m just really hoping nothing comes up about...his dad…”

“Ah. Yeah, that would be a hard pill to swallow.”

“Yeah… and it…really wasn’t my proudest moment…”

“Well, just imagine everyone in their underwear.”

Gilda shot Dash a look.

“Oh wait, that’s for public speaking.”

“Not to mention that were not the best words to say considering that-”

“I know.”

Gilda sighed, “Dash?”

“Yeah?”

“Thanks for not giving up on me…”

Dash smiled, “No problem.”

*****

Skywishes and Scootaloo were waiting outside of the restaurant. Skywishes was wearing a black evening gown that reached her knees, heels, and a silver necklace. “Do you see her car yet?” She asked.

Scootaloo, wearing a pink, long sleeved shirt, pink skirt, and purple shoes, replied, “No, not yet.”

“Okay… She said she’d be here right about now.” Skywishes took a deep breath.

“Are you okay, Auntie?”

Skywishes forced a smile, “I am...just a little nervous is all.”

“Trust me, you have nothing to worry about.”

Skywishes ruffled Scootaloo’s mane. “I’m glad you and Rainbow hit it off so well.”

“I still can’t believe you two were friends in school.”

“Yeah…” Skywishes thought back to her school days with Rainbow, “We did have some good times.”

“What was she like back then?”

“Well...she was a lot like you.”

“Really?”

“Uh-huh. She also had another friend who will be meeting us soon.”

"Really? Who was she?"

“He name is Gilda.”

Scootaloo paused for a minute. “You mean the griffon that…”

“Yep…”

"I don't think I want to meet her..."

“Don’t worry. According to Rainbow Dash, she’s different from the griffon you saw back then.”

“Still…” Then… “I think I see them.”

"Oh? Which car is her's?"

"The red Camaro."

Skywishes saw the car, and soon spotted her friend's trademark rainbow mane. "Yup, that's her, alright."

"Should we go meet them? After they park?"

“No, I think it might be better to wait for them.”

Scootaloo sighed, "Okay..."

Both girls waited for Rainbow and Gilda. Skywishes was still feeling nervous. This wouldn't be easy.

Soon, Rainbow Dash, Gilda, and Garuda, in Gilda's arms, emerged from the muscle car. The first thing Skywishes noticed was what they were wearing.

Rainbow was wearing a white, sleeveless dress, and gold, wrap around sandals that almost reached her knees. Gilda, meanwhile, was wearing a black strapless dress, black heels, and a black necklace. And Garuda-

Skywishes looked again. Was she really seeing a baby griffon wearing a small tuxedo?

"Hey, Skywishes," Rainbow greeted, giving her friend a quick hug.

“Hey Rainbow Dash. How have you been?”

“Well you know… Still trying to get in with the Wonderbolts. Nothing new.”

"Ah. And how are you, Gilda?" Skywishes gave her griffon friend a small hug.

"Doing pretty good, making sure this little guy doesn't get into trouble, mostly."

“I hope he doesn’t. He is just too cute!”

“Yeah, but try putting him down for a nap.”

“That bad?”

“Yep, and I’m sleeping right next to him. Imagine how it would be if I put him in a crib.”

"Wow, that bad?"

“Oh yeah.”

“Wow… Hope it’s not as bad with me. I ended up with Scootaloo when she was four.”

"Wow, weren't you still in school?"

“Yeah, but with some help, I was able to balance it out.”

“Well Sky,” Rainbow said, “There is so much that we need to catch up on, but first, where is this ‘prince charming’ that you told me about.”

"Uh..." Skywishes saw her boyfriend behind Rainbow.

"Hey, Rainbow," The man greeted.

A chill went down her spine. That voice sounded all too familiar, for that was the very same voice that she heard on the day she was assaulted. She turned around and saw that it was the same man who violated her. Citrus Rush was a yellow pegasus with a green mane. He was wearing khaki pants a collared shirt, a black belt, and brown dress shoes. Rainbow stood there in absolute shock while memories of the day that he showed his true colors flowed through her head.

Gilda was just as shocked, but she held Garuda protectively in her arms. "What are you doing here?" Gilda demanded.

“Why about to have dinner with my girlfriend and her friends,” he answered. “Is that a problem?”

Once Rainbow got her wits together, she said, “Gilda, hold me back.”

“Can’t, I’m going to be too busy breaking every bone in his body!”

"Girls, stop!" Skywishes exclaimed.

"Give me one. Good. Reason." Gilda replied, still glaring at Citrus.

“Because he changed.”

“Oh really?” Dash replied, “Is that supposed to take away the fact that I was raped by him?!”

"Dashie-" Citrus started.

“Don’t ‘Dashie’ me. YOU should have stayed in that cell to rot! I’m surprised she let you hang with her around a filly.”

"Stop it!!" Scootaloo finally shouted, the girl was in tears. "Why- what-?" Scootaloo bolted towards her aunt's car.

Rainbow glared at Citrus… then Skywishes before walking back to hers. Garuda finally started crying loudly, scared from the near-fatal argument. Gilda didn’t even face Citrus, but rather looked at Skywishes and asked, “Why? Why did you decide to date him after what he did to your best friend?”

"Maybe cuz he changed, and he's sorry for what he did, and I just wanted to give him a second chance." Skywishes replied.

“Oh really… What? Is he sensitive to a slap on the wrists. Meanwhile, I was on the streets having to sell myself to survive, have a baby whose biological father is a spoiled prince, AND have to go to jail for assaulting another pony who was insulting me and my baby in order to learn my lesson; and you expect me to believe that he changed out of the blue?”

"Well, you went from a nice girl in school to a jerky prostitute, then back to a nice girl. What do you think?"

“Well at least the people I was with did it willingly. Rainbow, on the other hand is STILL traumatized.”

"What more can he do? He's apologized, he spent some time in the army, and he couldn't go to college."

“Still sounds like a slap on the wrists. At least he didn’t have to give birth on the streets. Can you imagine how painful that is without medication?”

"He can't, cuz he’s a male for one thing, but he also can’t imagine me having kids because we can’t have any.”

"Serves him right." Gilda said, before going back to Rainbow's Camaro while trying to calm Garuda down.