Kinds of Love: The World

Chapters

The Princess of Shipping
The Princess of Shipping vs Pinkie Pie
The Princess of Shipping vs Rainbow Dash
The Princess of Shipping vs Fluttershy
The Princess of Shipping vs Applejack and Rarity
The Princess of Shipping Epilogue
Late Night With The Princesses
I'm Busy
A Maid's Tale

The Princess of Shipping

Spic politely knocked on the door to the Prince and Princess' living quarters. “Mistress? Lord Shining Armor? I have a letter for you two,” she called out.

“The door is open,” came a response from within.

She pushed it open and saw both laying against one another on their couch. Shining Armor was on his stomach and reading a book. Some fantasy story, no doubt, mused Spic. Cadance was on her back next to him, leaning against his side. Various items from around the room – a quill, a couple books, a snowglobe, and a picture from their wedding – floated over her, being made to dance back and forth. For her part, Cadance didn't seem to pay them any heed; rather, she stared past them at the ceiling.

“Who's it from,” she idly asked.

It looks as though Mistress Cadance is bored again. “From your younger sister, Princess Twilight Sparkle.”

The objects stopped their movement and fell to the floor as she instantly released them. “Oh, give it here!” No sooner had Spic removed the letter from a pocket in her uniform did Cadance's magic pull it away from her. She ripped apart the seal and pulled out the piece of paper.

“Whats it say?” asked Shining Armor, without so much as looking away from his book.

Sometimes it's hard to tell that him and Princess Twilight Sparkle are siblings... but at other times, the connection becomes rather obvious.

“The first part is on her relationship with Big Mac. Everything appears to be going well between them so far. He's been helping her keep calm under stress and she's been trying to get him to socialize more often.” Cadance giggled as she read the next part of the letter. “Seems his family has been teasing him on the prospect of them getting married. They say he'll become the Prince of Apples.”

Shining joined in, giving his own short laugh. “Glad I never got a silly sounding title.”

“Yes, I got off lucky too. The Princess of Love is a fairly nice title.” She nuzzled him. “And it appears that she has taken a couple unicorn students under her wing, becoming a magic teacher. One adult stallion and a young filly, the sister of her friend Rarity.”

“Hope they're ready for a ton of homework and to see more graphs than they ever thought possible.”

“Now, now, you know she grew out of that graphing everything phase.”

“Oh, that's right, she's insane when it comes to scheduling and lists now. Must have slipped my mind.”

Cadance lightly swatted Shining Armor's flank. “You shouldn't tease your little sister so much. She merely has some,” Cadance waved her hoof, trying to think of the right word, “eccentric traits is all. I find them cute.”

Finally looking away from his book, Shining Armor turned his head to face Cadance. “And what's the point of having a little sister if I'm not allowed to tease her?”

“Spic, you have a close sister. Tell him that teasing your sister is bad.”

Spic nodded and dutifully replied, “Teasing your sister is bad.”

“Spic, are you only saying that because Cadance told you to?”

“Yes, milord.”

“Ha!” Shining shot Cadance a cocky grin. “See.”

Cadance rolled her eyes and continued reading the letter, not dignifying that response with another. “This part is most weird. It's a list of apologies for every time she's messed up a spell around us when she was younger, and for the magical tricks she sometimes pulled on you. She, um, even dated each event.”

“Let me see it.” Shining floated it over and flipped it so he could check out that part. He raised his right eyebrow as he read them over. “Wow. I don't even remember ha-Hey! So that's what happened to my old gaming map. I knew I didn't lose it!”

“Well, she did apologize at least.” Tossing the letter aside, Cadance wrapped her hooves around him, hugging her husband. “I'm so happy Twilight has a special somepony. When you meet him, you aren't going to be overprotective, are you?”

“She's an alicorn princess, I doubt I have much to worry about. I'll just have some ciders with him and talk for a bit.”

“Hm...” Cadance looked upward, her eyes losing focus as she was thinking something over. “You know, all of her friends of single and Hearts and Hooves day is this month. Ma-”

“No.” Shining tapped her nose, getting her full attention. “We've talked about this before. Just because a pony is single doesn't mean they need help finding a boyfriend or girlfriend. Some ponies are actually happy being single. Right Spic?”

Spic raised an eyebrow. Great, as if sister doesn't talk to me about dating enough, now they will be. However... She smiled, and innocently spoke up, “If I may, your highnesses, I do have a small suggestion.” They glanced over to her with curious eyes. “Perhaps you two can make a competition of this. If Princess Cadance can get a partner for the majority of them, she wins. If she can't, then Prince Shining Armor wins. You can discuss the stakes with one another of course.”

“You know sweetie, that's not a half bad idea,” Cadance said to Shining, before giving him a small kiss on the side of his muzzle. “What do you say?”

“I don't know, maybe.“ He placed a bookmark in the book and shut it, likely giving up on reading any further. “What is the wager going to be?”

“I should take my leave now. I'm sure Span is slacking off in my absence.” Spic curtsied to the pair and walked out the door, closing it behind her as the two started coming up with things to put on the line. She imagined how it would happen; the wagers would start small, of course, but grow as neither wanted to be out done. With their resources, they could put nearly anything on the line. When this is over, I'll sure to end up with extra work, but it shall be worth it to see Mistress Cadance excited again about something other than imperial business. The final result should be quite amusing as well. Oh, I simply must let Span know about this.

***

“You want me to do what?!” asked a surprised Twilight. The four of them – as Spike was there too – sat around her kitchen table. Twilight had been thrilled with the sudden visit of her brother and sister-in-law, but then the matter of this bet was brought up.

“We need a third party to be the judge and to deal with the loser,” said Shining. “The loser being Cadance, of course.”

Cadance smacked his side with her wing. “And, it has to be someone skilled with transformation magic. Along with that, seeing as you are their friend, I thought you'd be the perfect pony for the job.”

“And, just to make sure I heard you correctly,” and I really hope I didn't, “the loser has to be stuck in a form picked by the winner for one month.” Both Shining and Cadance nodded. “Right, and you've already picked the forms.” Once again they confirmed it. “Ok then. Should Cadance fail to get at least three of my friends partners, then she'll be stuck as an earth pony, with no access to flight or magic. And should she succeed, then Shining Armor will be stuck in the form of... ahem, in the form of a heavily pregnant mare.” Twilight raised her hoof. “I just have one question.”

“Of course, ask away,” said Cadance.

“Are both of you out of your minds?! You're taking bets on my friends' love lives. That's insane.” Twilight glared at them.

“Twilight, just think about this, if I'm successful with even finding one of them a long term mate, wouldn't it be worth it?” Cadance stood and walked around the table to Twilight's size. Her wing extended and fell across Twilight's shoulder. “Just think of how happy you are with Big Macintosh. They could end up with that same happiness. If I end up failing with of them, then fine, everything stays the same. But if I succeed with even just one, I change her life and make her so happy!”

Twilight grunted and wrinkled her nose. “If it's really for them, then why do you need a bet?”

“Well, people do work faster when there's something on the line.”

“Spike!”

Spike shrugged his shoulders. “Hey, I'm just saying, there's a reason the library gets clean faster when you promise me an extra gem.”

“Eeeeeerg...” Twilight facehooved, letting it slowly slide down her muzzle and hit the table with a soft clop. She sat quietly for a moment, with her eyes shut and a scowl etched on her face.

“So?” asked Cadance, wanting a response.

“I still think you're crazy but... fine. I'll be the judge.” Twilight's eyes snapped open and she raised her hoof again. “But, we're going to lay down some ground rules!”

“Like what?” asked Shining.

“First of all, if they say no to the idea, you accept and move on. No pushing them to get them to say yes.” Twilight turned her head, looking straight at Cadance. “Cadance, I don't mean to sound rude but when you get your mind set on something, you can be a little, well... pushy.”

Cadance gasped. “I-I am not pushy! Shining, am I pushy?”

Shining grabbed a book from the nearby counter. “Hm, How to Serve Pony.” Opening it to the first marked page, “Oh, yes, very interesting. Hm?” He looked up over the top of the book. “Sorry honey, I um...” He pointed to it. “I couldn't hear you over the book.”

Cadance crossed her front legs and pouted. “Anyways, I shall not be pushy. I promise.”

“Good,” replied Twilight, before snatching the book away from Shining and floating it back to where he got it. “Rule number two, for it to be considered a success, they have to agree to a second date and say that it too went well.”

“Two successful dates?” asked Cadance, before waving off the question. “That's simple.” She shot Shining Armor a competitive stare, along with a confident smile. “Hope you enjoy waddling everywhere and having to go to bathroom every five minutes.”

“Doesn't matter, because you're going to lose and finally see that trying to set up everypony on dates is a bad idea.”

“She's done this before?” asked Twilight. Some of their time together was told to her, but she couldn't remember any stories about Cadance trying to get dates for everypony.

“Yeah. It only ended when she tried to get our school mascot to date our rival's mascot.”

“Hey!” She stepped forward and pointed at Shining. “You said you'd never tell Twilight about the incident!”

“Wait, incident? What exactly happened?”

“I-it was nothing.” Cadance turned away from them, trying to act nonchalant.

“Nothing huh?”

“The mascots agreed to do it, and they even wore their costumes. However, each one was actually just setting up a trap for the other. Our mascot ended up hanging upside down for the night, while the other one got the zipper to his costume glued shut.”

“It was a one time incident.” Cadance pulled Twilight close and put a wing around her again. “Twilight, I shall find the perfect partners for each of your closest friends.”

“And one last rule, no love magic.”

***

Later that day, Twilight had invited Big Macintosh to come meet her family. Twilight and Cadance got wrapped up in their own conversation about various things – books, Starswirl the Bearded, princess like activities, etc – and wandered off to a different part of the library. Meanwhile, the two stallions were left on their own in the land of the awkward.

Shining Armor sized him up. Never thought Twily liked really big stallions before. He is kinda handsome though, and has nice eyes. Hate to think it, but if I was Aegis, I'd probably find him attractive. “So... Twily says you have two little sisters.”

“Eyep.”

“Then you know the standard big brother to little sister's boyfriend talk?”

“Eyep”

“Good, saves me the time.” With his head, Shining Armor motioned toward Twilight Sparkle and Cadance. “They're going to keep at it for awhile. Want to go grab some ciders and exchange embarrassing stories about our little sisters?”

Big Macintosh smiled. “Eyep.”

Author's Note

That's right, Cadance will attempt to ship all five remaining single members of the mane 6. And one thing to keep in mind, I'll be shooting for unique pairings that aren't often done.

The Princess of Shipping vs Pinkie Pie

Shining Armor and Princess Cadance walked through the center of Ponyville after having left the library. After thinking things over and talking to Twilight about her friends, it was decided that the first target would be Pinkie Pie.

“I can't believe Twily made us sign a written agreement. Well, no, I can believe it, though it's still insane for a bet,” said Shining Armor as he watched her study every pony they passed by. “And you aren't even listening to me.”

“You say something, sweetie?” she asked while getting a good look at a passing blue stallion.

“Nothing.” Sometimes I wonder if Twilight got her single-mindedness from Cadance. He stopped just outside of Sugar Cube Corner. “Are you sure you want to start with Pinkie? From the sounds of it, picking a good partner for her won't be easy.”

“According to Twilight the more a pony tries to study Pinkie the less they'll understand about her. It's better to just pick somepony off of intuition rather than trying to compare and contrast traits.” She pushed open the door to thankfully see that the bakery didn't have many customers. It was the middle of the day so they figured it would be long after the initial morning rush, if a town like Ponyville even had one. “Besides, I'd rather start with the hardest and end with the easiest of the group.”

“Fair enough.” Getting close to the counter, Shining spoke up to the pink pony running it. “Pinkie?”

“Oh my gosh, Twilight didn't tell me you two were coming. I totally didn't even get the chance to set up a ‘Princess Cadance and Prince Shining Armor are Coming to Ponyville’ celebration.” She rambled on, the words coming out one right after another, not allowing for any interruption. “On no no no, this won't do at all, I've got to go to the party store, teach ponies a song and dance to do in unison, and put up a banner. You two will simply have to go away for an hour and come back again.”

“Ahem, Pinkie Pie, that will not be necessary. Really, we don't need a celebration when we come to visit Twilight,” said Cadance, hoping her words will get through to Pinkie..

Shining immediately added, “Also, we needed your help with something,” hoping to cut off any disagreement Pinkie might have about that statement.

“Oh really?” asked Pinkie. Her tail started wagging. “You need MY help? Oh, this must be something super special then.”

“Well you see, Shining and I have a little bet going on,” said Cadance, explaining the situation to her. “So, what do you say? Will you go on a date with a stallion I chose?”

“That sounds fun!” Pinkie bounced over the counter and kept jumping in place in front of Cadance. Up and down she went as her words came out in perfect rhythm with her movements. “Who's the pony? Do I know him? Is he a pegasus? No wait, a unicorn? Oh oh, do they love cake?”

“Uh, I-I haven't picked him out yet.” Cadance stumbled backwards. “I didn't expect you to be so enthusiastic about the idea.”

“Why wouldn't I be?” asked Pinkie. “It gives me something fun to do.”

“We'll let you know as soon as we found somepony,”said Shining Armor.

“Okie dokie loki.”

A male voice came from the kitchen in the back. “Pinkie, I need some help back here. The dough keeps rising! Oh Celestia, it won't stop!”

Pinkie tsked. “Again? This is the last time I ever get a recipe from Discord. I'm on my way Mr. Cake!”

They watched as Pinkie grabbed a rolling pin from behind the counter and then went charging into the back room. “You know... she already is part of the Cake family in most regards,” noted Cadance.

Shining's ear flicked as the words sunk into his head. He stood in shock at the idea itself and that Cadance would actually suggest it. “Cadance, no,” chastised Shining. “Mr. Cake is a married stallion.”

“I know that, but I'm sure a lot of stallions would enjoy having a second mare. Wouldn't you?”

Nope! I am not taking that bait. “And a lot of mares would slap them for suggesting that.”

“Fine, fine. I was merely joking anyways.”

“It's hard to tell with you sometimes.” He felt his wife's soft, warm cheek rub against his and he returned the gesture. “You do have the habit of getting carried away.”

“Relax, I wouldn't go that far.” She stopped nuzzling him and her eyes turned toward the ceiling as she thought on the matter. “Though this won't be easy. The stallion that dates Pinkie will have to be energetic, fun loving, and maybe a little eccentric,” said Cadance as she turned and started walking out.

“Wait, we aren't going to get anything while we were here?”

As Shining followed her out, he heard more yelling from the back. “It has the rolling pin! Retreat!” yelled the male voice, Mr. Cake if he had to guess.

“Stand your ground soldier! We aren't letting it take this kitchen without a fight!” yelled Pinkie.

***

Cadance and Shining Armor walked down through Ponyville's main road, listening to the chatter of the ponies they passed by. “Maybe I should have asked Twilight for a complete list of all available stallions in town.”

“She probably would make one too, if you asked,” said Shining Armor. As they approached the Apple family's apple stall, they noticed a stallion with Applejack. He had a long, dirty-blonde mane and wore a vest and a stetson.

“Oh, he's cute,” said Cadance. They were just close enough to hear Applejack and the stallion talking without being seen.

“Well, it sure was nice of you to come up for the family get together, Braeburn,” said Applejack as she manned her stall. “Shame about your date getting busy all of a sudden though.”

Braeburn shrugged. “Relax cus', these things happin'. Shucks, a fun party is a fun party with or without a date.”

“I know, but it'll be a might harder for you to find a dancing partner for the square dance.”

“Darn. Ah was looking forward to that, too.”

“Psst, have you seen that pony around before,” whispered Cadance to her husband.

“No. Sounds like he's Applejack's cousin,” responded Shining Armor.

“And from the sounds of it, he needs a date.” She looked at him with a sideways glance and a coy smile.

Shining just waited, knowing that she'd made her selection. Now it was just a matter of seeing just how Cadance would go about pushing this Braeburn pony into a date with Pinkie Pie, and he wouldn't have to wait long seeing how she just walked up to the pair. He followed behind her.

“Huh, well, it ain't everyday that we get royalty around here. Er, aside from the princess that lives here anyways,” said Applejack as she tipped her hat to them..

“P-Princess Cadance?” Braeburn yanked his hat from his head and bowed to them. “Greeting's your majesty.”

Cadance giggled. “There is no need for such formality. My husband and I are merely visiting our sister. So, treat us as you would any other pony.”

“Ya don't have ta worry Braeburn, they ain't like typical nobles. Just relax around them,” added Applejack.

“I-if you say so, Princess.” Braeburn waited a second and then put his hat back on.

“I couldn't help but overhear that you needed a date to your family get together.”

“Well, that's the long and short of it,” said Applejack. “His last date bailed and now he won't have a dancin' partner.”

“Eyep,” said Braeburn. “But, what can you do?”

“Well actually, I think I might be able to help you out,” said Cadance.

Braeburn cleared this throat. “T-that's mighty kind of ya, but don't ya already have a husband?”

Shining Armor stifled a laugh as Cadance responded, “Oh heavens no, I wasn't talking about me. You see, I was just speaking to a friend of your cousin, Pinkie Pie, and she was telling me that she would love to try going on a date.”

“Wait a second, Pinkie said that?” asked Applejack. “Now that don't sound like her.” Applejack shrugged. “Though it could be a good idea. Ah was fixin to invite her anyways, what with the chance that the Pie family has some Apple blood in them.”

“Wait, Pinkie is a part of the Apple family?” asked Shining Armor. Braeburn perked up too, seeming just as surprised.

“It’s possible. We still need to look more into the records to tell for sure. Oh, if you’re getting worried, you shouldn’t be. At best her family is a few generations removed,” explained Applejack. “We might have a common ancestor, but it ain’t like she’s a first cousin.”

Braeburn's muzzle scrunched up. “Oh, now ah remember Pinkie. She did that horrible song that nearly caused Apploosa to get destroyed.”

“And I'm sure she's very sorry for that.” Cadance walked around Braeburn until she was standing at his side and placed her wing over Braeburn’s back, who promptly went bright red. “You must admit, she is a rather cute mare.”

“That she is,” responded Braeburn, looking away from Cadance. “Her song may have been bad, but she was a pretty good dancer, from what I recall.”

“What do you say? Will you ask her out?”

“Y-yes, princess. But uh, could you...” The wing moved away from him. “Thank ya, kindly.” He walked off towards Sugar Cube Corner.

“Laid it on there a bit thick, didn't you?” asked Shining. He laid down a couple bits on Applejack's stall and took a nice, big granny smith apple. “Poor guy froze up when you wing-hugged him like that.”

“Why were you trying to get him to date Pinkie Pie anyhow?” asked Applejack.

“Shining Armor and I have a bet going to see if I can find a good partner for each of Twilight's friends.” Cadanced walked up to the stall. “Which reminds me, what about you Applejack? Would you care to go on a date with somepony of my choosing?”

“Well...A-ah...” she stumbled over her words, “Ah'll have to think about it. But ah can't until after my family's shindig is over. Somepony's gotta keep an eye on everything while it's going on, you know.”

“But of course. I'll talk to you sometime after it's over and see what you would like in a stallion,” said Cadance.

“R-right...” Applejack's muzzle scrunched up and she turned away from them.

***

“Don't worry, Mr. Cake and I were able to beat the dough into submission. He put up a big fight though.” Pinkie tossed an apple fritter into the air and caught it in her mouth on its way down. She had decided to wear boots and a green bandana around her neck. “Mmf mm mmmf.”

“Well shoot, sounds like quite the tall tale there Pinkie,” said Braeburn. The pair had just finished up a bit of dancing and were talking while going through a plate of freshly made fritters, just outside of the Apple family barn.

Pinkie plucked the hat from Braeburn's head and put it on, leaning it forward a bit. “Ah'm the sheriff of that there kitchen,” she said, putting on an accent like Braeburn's, “Ain't no bad dough gonna go damaging a stove on my watch, ya hear?” She put it back on his head as he laughed.

“You sure are something, Pinkie. Great in the kitchen, and a fine dancer too. Never seen a pony pick up on square dancing as fast as you did.”

Pinkie shrugged. “It's basically just the Simon Says. All I had to do was copy what the song told me to.”

Braeburn got quiet for a moment as he stared at some of Applejack's apple trees in the orchard surrounding the barn. Flashes of his own orchard set against the desert landscape appeared in his mind, and he sighed at the thought.

“Something wrong, Braeburn? Is it too cold for you up here? Didn't sleep last night? Bad fritters? Oh my gosh, don't let it be bad fritters. Everypony here would get sick.” Pinkie gasped. “Even me!”

“Nah, ain't none of that.”

“Phew.”

“Just feeling a bit homesick is all. Ah had to visit a couple places before coming here. This is actually mah last stop before going back home.”

“Oh, is that it? Hmm... I got it. I'll do something to remind you of Apploosa. Close your eyes.”

“Heh, alright.” Braeburn closed his eyes. “Let me know when ah can open them again.”

“Oh, you can open them now.”

Braeburn slowly opened his eyes to the sight of Pinkie dressed up in a purple saloon girl outfit, complete with a feather sticking out of her mane. “H-how... how did ya change that quickly?”

“Details details, that isn't important. What matters is cheering you up and I got just the song to do it.”

“...oh no.”

Pinkie starting dancing, kicking out a front leg and a back then and alternating back and forth. “It's a bright sunny day and you gotta share, you gotta care!” She continued on the same song she sang way back when in Apploosa.

“Well, 'least there ain't no buffalo to go stampeding this time,” said Braeburn, adding in a chuckle.

“Hmph!” Pinkie stopped and crossed his forelegs, looking indignant. “It's a good song! Guess I'm just too avant-garde for you ponies.”

“What in the hay is avant-garde?”

“I don't know actually. I heard Rarity once say it's an excuse artists give for when others don't like their work.”

“Ah can't fairly judge the song, seeing as it almost destroyed my town, but ah can compliment yah on one thing.”

“What's that?”

“You look really pretty in that dress.”

Pinkie's eyes grew large as she sat in silence, easily the longest amount of time Braeburn could remember her being quiet, or still for that matter. She turned away from him and rubbed her front hooves together. He waited for a moment, questioning why the normally very talkative mare was being so quiet. “You really think I'm pretty?” she asked, her voice much softer than before.

“Well, 'course ah do. If ah didn't, ah wouldn't have said so.”

“W-wow... you're the first stallion to say that.”

“Are ya serious? No other stallion has called ya pretty before?”

Pinkie shook her head. “It's usually, 'Pinkie, you look silly.' 'Pinkie, you look like a closet just exploded.' Or, 'Pinkie, you can't throw a house warming party inside of a birdhouse.'”

“Then the stallions around here are just plum crazy, 'cause you're one of the prettiest mares in town.” Braeburn put his right foreleg around her and gave her a little squeeze before nuzzling her neck. “Also, ya did make me feel better. Thank you very much, Pinkie.”

Braeburn’s attention was pulled away from Pinkie when he heard Applejack yell out, “What in tarnation are ya doing?! Get off that thing right this instant!” Off by the picnic area, closer to the orchard was Granny Smith riding a mechanical bull surrounded by Apple ponies cheering her own, all except for Applejack and Big Mac.

“It's called having fun! Ya should try it sometime!” yelled back Granny Smith before letting out a loud, “Yeehaw!”

Braeburn laughed out loud at the sight, until he felt a pair of soft lips press against his cheek. Bright red spread across his face, starting from the kissed cheek. “P-Pinkie?”

“...thanks.” Pinkie leaned against him, resting her head against his neck.

“Ah was only telling the truth.”

***

Shining Armor sat on the library's floor snuggled against his little sister. The two were reading through a book, the newest story in a vampony fantasy series. They had just gotten to the part where the eternally young princess was revealed to be a lich who had been using the sun itself as her phylactery. As Shining Armor waited for Twilight to finish the page he peered up over to the book's rim to check on Cadance, who had been pacing back and forth for the last hour or so. “Cadance, dear, please sit down.”

“Pinkie should have been done with the date by now. Maybe I should just-”

“No. No spying.”

“I wasn't going to spy.”

“No asking others to spy for you either.”

“...hmph!” Cadance stuck her nose up as she finally sat down. “I just want to see if she's actually having a good time. No pony should stay on a date when they aren't.”

“Yeah, why would a pony stay if they aren't having a good time,” said a new voice. They all turned to the library's entrance to see Pinkie standing there. “Hi!” She waved.

“Oh, hey Pinkie,” replied Twilight, and then she tapped on Shining's shoulder. “Turn the page.”

“Oh, right.” He did so.

Cadance rushed up to her. “How'd it go? Did you enjoy it?”

“Of course I enjoyed it! It's always fun to hang out with a friend,” Pinkie responded.

“Wait, just a friend?” asked Cadance, arching up one of her eyebrows.

Pinkie nodded. “Yeah. Oh, maybe Twilight can be my date next! Or, or, maybe Shining Armor. He seems like he'd be really fun to hang out with.”

“W-what? No! I-It wasn't supposed to be a 'friend' date. Why would you think that?”

“Ooooh, you meant THAT kind of a date? Like, a date date?” Pinkie tilted her head. “You should have said so before.”

“Of course I meant... aaagh!” Cadance groaned and hung her head.

“Cadance?” said Twilight without bothering to look up from the book.

“...yes, Twilight?”

“I should mention that Pinkie is a notorious prankster who usually is smarter than she lets on.”

The color faded from Cadance's face. “Y-you're kidding right?”

“She's not but I was.” Pinkie covered her giggling muzzle with a hoof. “Oh man, I can't believe you really thought I didn't think it was a real date. Hahaha.”

“Ugh... why did I fall for that?”

“Twily, don't go past this page.” After getting a nod from her, Shining walked up to Cadance and pulled her close. “Cadance, you need to loosen up. Remember, it's not the end of the world if a date didn't go well for them.”

“You're right... sorry. I just want every pony to have their own special somepony.” She nuzzled against him.

“And I just might have one now,” said Pinkie.

“Really?” asked all three – even Twilight finally expressed shock.

Pinkie nodded. “I'll be visiting Braeburn in Apploosa next weekend.”

Cadance wrapped her forelegs and wings around Pinkie, hugging her tightly. “Oh, how wonderful! I'm so happy for you!”

“Too tight! Too tight!”

“Sorry.”

“It is great news, Pinkie,” said Twilight. “If you weren't actually related to the Apple family before, you might end up being part of their family now.”

“Oh my gosh, I didn't even think of that!” exclaimed Pinkie as she started to vibrate. “That is so cool! Applejack and me will be close family! Oh oh, what about you?” Pinkie pointed to Twilight.

“What about me?”

“If I marry Braeburn and you marry Big Mac, we'll be family! I'll be related to a princess!” Cadance giggled and Twilight turned red.

“Pinkie.”

“Just call me, the pink party princess.”

“Pinkie.”

“And my castle will be a giant bouncy castle.”

“Pinkie!”

“Yes, Twilight?”

“Let's not rush things, ok? You don't want to scare off Braeburn by mentioning marriage when you go visit him, and I'm not sure Big Mac and I are ready to discuss it yet either.”

“Oh, heh heh. I got a bit carried away, didn't I?”

“Yes, but that's alright. You should go tell the Cakes how it went.”

“Great idea, Twilight!” In the blink of an eye she was gone.

“See?” asked Cadance.

“Just because it went well for her doesn't mean it will for everypony. Don't count your chickens before they hatch,” responded Shining Armor.

“Well, Cadance does have the lead now. Who will you guys talk to next?” asked Twilight.

They turned to the window just in time to see a rainbow streak flying through the sky.

Author's Note

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Cadance, I think you have a problem.

The Princess of Shipping vs Rainbow Dash

With a soft fwomp sound Cadance landed on Rainbow Dash's front porch, if you could actually call it one. “You didn't tell me she lived in a mansion. It looks to be three, maybe four stories tall.” Her eyes wandered from the rainbow pool to the large pillars that had been carved into the sides of the pristine, white walls. It was likely made of clouds or some enchanted material, but it mimicked the appearance of marble. “I have never seen a floating mansion of this splendor outside of Cloudsdale. To have one built out here must have cost a small fortune! How could she afford such a home?”

She heard another fwomp as Twilight landed behind her. “It depends on who you ask. Rarity believes that Dash is secretly the rebellious daughter of a wealthy family. I'll admit, I've considered that too, since she rarely talks about her family. Applejack thinks she joins some less than legal races. Which does seem like something she would do.”

“And I'm sure you have a theory as well, Twilight.”

“I think that any pegasus willing to take a weather job this close to the Everfree Forest gets paid well.” Twilight shrugged. “A boring answer, I know. But it's the most logical one.”

Cadance nodded. “Agreed and it's just like you to think of it.”

Twilight knocked on the door. “Just remember, she might not be easy to convince when it comes to the 'joys of love'.”

“Understood, but I think I'll get her to come around.”

Twilight knocked again, bringing about a voice from the other side, “Yeah, yeah, I'm coming! Pinkie, if that's you trying to wake me up early when you know it's my day off, I swear I'll-” the door opened, “Oh, Twilight? Er, Cadance?” Rainbow Dash stepped to the side and motioned for them to come in. “Um, I have some drinks in the fridge if you guys are thirsty.”

“That would be lovely, thank you Rainbow Dash.” Cadance stepped into the spacious foyer of Dash's home, giving it a quick inspection. There were statues of Wonderbolts in mid flight on either side of the door, and in the center stood a wide staircase leading upwards before splitting to go to two different rooms on the next floor; though if the description of Dash that Twilight gave her was any indication she doubted that they saw much use. Aside from those and some other decorations, the foyer was largely empty space.

“Kitchen is upstairs to the left.” Confirming Cadance's thoughts, Rainbow Dash flew up to the second story, her hooves not touching a single step.

Cadance and her fellow princess followed on hoof and upon reaching the top, they found a kitchen and living room taking up most of the floor. The kitchen was in the back, near the next set of steps. The living room had a few couches and a table with some books on it. Dash was already over by the refrigerator.

“I really need to go shopping today,” she said after opening it. “Let's see, cider, apple juice, or water.”

“I shall have a glass of the juice, thank you,” said Cadance as she sat down on the middle couch.

“I guess I'll take some cider.” Twilight sat next to her.

“Consider it done.” In a flash they each now had their own drink sitting on the table in front of them. “Now that that's over with, why are you two here? I mean, Twilight dropping by to talk about a book or something I can understand, but it's a bit weird to have you both here. Though if you two are just here to hang, that's cool.”

“I am here to offer you the chance at finding true love,” said Cadance.

Dash's eyes turned from Cadance to Twilight. “Well, I guess she is kinda pretty, even if she needs a new mane style and is starting to get pudgy. But doesn't she have a boyfriend?”

“I am not pudgy!” Twilight huffed and scrunched up her muzzle. “And you know she is not talking about me!”

“Heh, yeah, but I had you going for a second.”

“Ugh...” Twilight sunk down and took a drink of her cider.

“But seriously, what's up?”

“It is exactly as I said,” replied Cadance. “I would like to set you up on a da-”

“Pass.”

“W-what? Why?” questioned Cadance.

“I don't care about that sappy romantic stuff.”

“But didn't you just have a boyfriend recently?” asked Cadance.

Dash shrugged. “We mostly just hung out at his place, talking about stuff. Not like it lasted long before he went back to Cloudchaser.”

“Oh my, I'm sorry to hear that,” said Cadance.

“Don't be. We're still friends, and it's not a big deal. Just didn't work out is all.” Dash hopped up onto a couch next to theirs and laid back.

“Hmm...” Cadance thought on what she could offer Dash to sweeten the deal, though the fact that she'd want more than a loving partner boggled Cadance's mind. What could possibly be better than waking up next to a pony that you share a special connection with? “I've got it. Rainbow Dash, I can arrange for you to do a one pegasus show for the empire. The spotlight will be directly on you as you perform for everypony. It'll be a professional show just like the Wonderbolts do.”

Rainbow Dash closed her eyes and went quiet, giving no response.

“Well?”

Her left eye cracked open and stared at them. “Two. I want it to be a two pegasi show.”

“Twilight, you didn't mention her having a partner for stunts.”

“She doesn't.” Twilight raised an eyebrow. “Her training at the academy aside, I can't think of her ever performing with a partner.”

Dash shook her head. “I don't have one, but I do have a little sister. If I get my own show, then she gets to be the opening act. That's the deal.”

“My my, that's quite admirable. It's no wonder you once had the Element of Loyalty. Consider it done. You and your sister will be given space, advertisement, and props if need be for your own stunt show,” replied Cadance.

“But first the date, right?”

Cadance nodded.

“Ugh, fine.”

“Are you really that adverse towards it?”

“I just don't do well in anything that's formal.”

“And who says a date must be formal? I'll make sure it is a laid back affair, to suit you.”

“That makes it sound a little better.” She added in a quieter voice, “I guess.”

“Good. I just need to ask a couple questions first to find a good match. For starters, do you prefer mares or stallions?”

“Er, Cadance, she just talked about having a boyfriend,” said Twilight.

“True, but it's polite to ask first before setting up a date. Besides, he could have been an exception.”

“Honestly, I don't really care.” With that, both princesses full attention were on Rainbow Dash. “If I'm going to be dating somepony, I just want them to be cool and fun to be around.”

“And I will do my best to make sure they're the type that you can have fun with. Any preferences at all?”

“I want it to be a pegasus. I would give an earth pony or unicorn a shot if we were talking and hit it off, but if you've actually going to look for a pony for me to date, then I want one that can fly.”

“Well, that does make sense,” said Twilight, “Considering how you live in the sky.”

“Done and done. Do not worry about a thing, Rainbow Dash. I am sure you'll like the pony I pick.” Cadance downed her glass of juice in one shot. “Come along Twilight, we have work to do.”

After the door closed behind them, Twilight looked to her stomach. “Cadance? Am I pudgy?”

“You're cute just the way you are, and I'm sure Big Mac likes it. It makes you more cuddly.” Cadance jumped from the cloud's edge and took flight to the Crystal Empire. She knew she needed a pony that would be able to match Rainbow Dash's training regiment and was a strong flier. So, who better than one of the royal guards?

***

Princess Cadance sat on the Crystal Empire's throne and looked out upon six pegasi guards lined up in front of her, four stallions and two mares. She had made it a point to keep a minimal number of guards from Equestria on duty in the empire. Though it may be a vassal of Equestria, she didn't want them to feel like Equestria was trying to dominate their society. Politics and public relations aside, this left a smaller pool of candidates than she had hoped for. “Alright, any of you that are currently in a relationship are dismissed. Same goes for any of you that have plans for the next two days that you can't cancel.” Five of the guards turned and left the room, leaving behind a single stallion. He was a touch smaller than the other stallions, but he would have to suffice. Now that she was alone with him, Cadance noticed that she had seen him around before, but couldn't quite remember his name.

The guard looked around at the empty spots left behind by the others and then rubbed the back of his neck.

“Guard!”

He snapped to attention and saluted her. “Yes, Princess?”

“What is your name?”

“Um, Flash Sentry, ma'am.”

“Ah, yes, I remember you now.” Cadance rose from her throne and walked up to Flash Sentry, keeping her eyes fixed on him. “Flash Sentry, what I'm about to ask you to do will be tough. I'll be honest, the odds of succeeding in this are slim.” I'll probably have to accept that Shining will win this round. “And, this mission is volunteer only. Do you think you're up for the challenge?”

“Yes, ma'am! I'm ready,” he said, giving another salute.

“We shall see about that.” Cadance walked around him, eying him carefully, making sure there's nothing that could turn Dash away. After reaching his front once more, Cadance suddenly pressed her hoof against his chest, “Quick, your date is standing next to a mud puddle and a wagon is speeding down the street, what do you do?”

“I-I-” he stammered.

“Too late. She's now covered in mud and the day is ruined. You must react faster than that.”

Flash stumbled back a step or two, with his wings and ears drooping down. “I-I'm confused.”

“Oh.” Cadance let out a small, nervous laugh. “Perhaps I should explain. Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to take one of the greatest fliers in Equestria, Rainbow Dash, out on a date. You will need to show her a good time, woo her, and successfully get a second date.”

“Date?!” His wings sprang up.

“Indeed. Will you accept?”

“Uh, s-sure. I mean, I haven't been on one for awhile and all, but I'm just a bit surprised.”

“That is understandable but you need to get over your shock quickly. I will make the needed arrangements, including financing the date. You need only to be charming.”

“Yes, ma'am. I won't let you down.”

“You are dismissed. Spend the rest of today planning on what you're going to say and how you're going to act. Come back here in the morning, and I'll tell you where it will take place.”

I hope he can handle being with a mare as blunt as Rainbow Dash, and be able to keep her from getting bored too quickly. Good luck Flash Sentry, you are going to need it.

***

Shining Armor stood in the hallway just outside of the throne room, wondering why he just saw five guards leaving. Before he thought of a reason, out stepped Flash Sentry. “Halt,”

Flash stopped in his tracts. “Yes, captain?”

“Why were so many guards in the throne room? Did something happen?”

“Um, not exactly. Cadance was asking us to help her in a personal matter.”

Shining Armor groaned and rolled his eyes. “Let me guess, it was about going on a date with one of my sister's friends, right?”

Flash nodded. “Yes, sir.”

“Which one?”

“Rainbow Dash.”

“And you're the one that's doing it?”

Flash nodded.

“Got a plan?”

“No, sir. I thought we could just talk while having dinner.”

“Got something specific in mind to talk about?”

“No, sir.”

I shouldn't help. It'll only encourage her. But if I don't, he will get shot down in ten minutes flat. “No. If you go out there and be bland, nopony will like you, especially one like Rainbow Dash.”

“Really?”

“Yeah. Trust me, you want a mare like her, you need to leave a lasting impression. It's your only shot.”

“Did you do something special to leave an impression on Princess Cadance?”

Shining Armor grinned, rather proud of how he pulled it off. “I put on a concert for the whole academy.” Of course there was the part where he was still too scared to actually ask her to the dance afterward, but that was just a minor detail.

“Wow! Can you show me how to impress Rainbow Dash?”

“I can try but I have to ask first, do you really want her?”

Flash eagerly nodded. “I'd love a girlfriend as cool as her.”

“Fine, I'll help you. Follow me.”

***

A day had passed since Shining Armor helped him prepare, now was the moment of truth. Flash Sentry flew past the palace towards the train station carrying a picnic basket that Cadance had prepared for the date. He only slowed down once along the way when passing the Crystal Heart, taking note that it was spinning faster than normal, before stopping at the station and waiting for Rainbow Dash. The one thing that Shining Armor had drilled into him was to make sure he showed confidence when he approached her. No stuttering, no blushing, just be straight forward and say what you think. He was going to do just that and make his captain proud. I bet Shining Armor had no problem at all sweeping Princess Cadance off her hooves. Just act like he would, and I'll succeed.

The train pulled up and slowed down to a stop with a screech. Attempting to calm his nerves, Flash closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and slowly exhaled. The door opened and out stepped Rainbow Dash. Good first impression, I have to make a good first impression. Flash stepped up to her, “H-hi,” he stammered. “Nice to meet you Rainbow Dash. I'm Flash Sentry, your date.”

Dash raised and eyebrow. “You're not quite what I was expecting.”

Ouch. “Um, the princess set up a picnic spot for us on the edge of the empire.”

Rainbow Dash smiled and perked up. “Phew. Dude, you have no idea how much of a relief that is. She told me she wouldn't set up some stuffy date but I still thought it would be some high class restaurant.”

Yes, she's smiling! “Hey, who would want to sit in a place like that? Definitely not my style.”

“Good to hear that, Flash.” She pointed to the basket. “I'll carry it and you lead the way.”

After giving her a second to pick up the basket, he took to the sky and led her to the northern edge of the empire where a picnic blanket had already been set up for them. “That's the spot down there.” They dove down and landed by it. Flash motioned to the frozen tundra that lay beyond, “Nice view huh?” He looked back at Dash who was staring into the sky.

“Must be awesome to have this much open sky. Nothing around for miles. Just you doing whatever you want.” Her eyes sparkled as she spoke. “I could do as many sonic rainbooms as I want out there and no one would complain about rocking their house or breaking their windows.”

“It does feel pretty nice to just glide around out there, if you can handle the cold.”

“Did it take you awhile to get used to it?”

“Not really. I grew up in the northern part of Equestria, near the border. That's why I volunteered to move here when they needed guards.”

Dash nodded. “I'll be visiting more often, that's for sure.”

Flash opened the basket, taking a look inside of it for the first time. Don't worry, I took care of everything, were the words from Cadance. Let's see: rose sandwiches, a couple bags trail mix, and a bottle of pomegranate wine. Not sure if wine was needed but she's the princess of love, I'm sure she knows what she's doing. “Um, Rainbow Dash? Are you getting hungry?” Flash held up a sandwich and one of the bags.

Rainbow looked over at him and nodded. “Toss that bag over here.”

As she was ripping it open, Flash thought to one of the things Captain Armor had told him, ask her about the things she likes. “So, um, have you read any good books lately?” he asked, taking a shot in the dark.

“Yesh,” she said through a mouth full of pretzel bits and nuts. Thankfully she swallowed before continuing, “Newest Daring Do came out last week, Daring Do and The Ghost Ship.”

“Oh, I read that just yesterday. What did you think?”

“Eh, it was ok. The mystery part was cool, I mean nopony could have seen that twist coming, but...”

“But what? There was a part you didn't like?”

“Captain Ocean Mist. Fine, if Daring Do falls for some stallion, it happens. Whatever. But half the book was about how awesome he was, even when he wasn't really doing anything at all.”

Flash nodded. “Not half but those parts did drag on too long.”

“And she became such a klutz about him too! It was so un-Daring Do, you know.”

“And it was really weird for this brand new guy to show up and immediately have Daring blushing like a school filly. If Yearling wanted to add romance to the series, you think she would have built it up, not just having it happen out of the blue.” Flash chewed on some trail mix as he thought on the matter more. “Actually, I'm surprised Yearling didn't have that Daring Do fangirl return. What was her name... Oh yeah, Prism. That was it. It was obvious that Prism had a crush on her.”

Dash stepped back and her wings shot up. “I-I did not-” Dash cleared her throat, “I mean, Prism did not have a crush on Daring Do!”

Flash shrugged. “Well, maybe not. It would have been a better set up though.”

Dash turned away from him. “Yes well... so you're a guard huh?” the last part shot out of her mouth a mile a minute. “What made you decide to become one?”

“Um...” Flash's mind took a moment to recollect itself after the sudden change in topic. “I just like to protect ponies. It was either this or trying to be a musician but I went the safe route.”

Dash finally turned back to him, regaining her earlier composure. “You play music? Huh, that's actually kinda cool. What instruments do you play? Or are you a singer?”

“Mostly guitar, but I did learn the bass too.”

“Do you still have a guitar?”

Flash nodded. “I would never get rid of it.”

“Good. You should get it. I want to hear you play.”

This is it, my chance to impress her, but it has to go perfectly. Um, where should I play for her. Flash looked back towards the imperial city and to the palace that towered over everything. He remembered that the crystal heart was brimming with energy earlier and would likely be releasing it soon. Like the captain said, if you're going to a wow a mare go all out. Don't half ass it. Flash gulped. Please let this work. “S-sure, um, I'll go get it. Wait for me at the palace entrance.”

“The palace? Why there?”

“Trust me.”

***

With his guitar on his back, he flew to the bottom of the palace, finding Rainbow Dash waiting by the heart. “Is this thing doing ok?” she asked, pointing to it. “It's spinning faster than I remember.”

“Yeah, it does that sometimes. Ahem, anyways, I have the perfect place to play.” Flash looked up to the top of the palace. “Up there. Best view in the entire empire.”

“Flash?”

“Yeah.”

Dash flapped her wings and shot up into the sky, “Race you to the top!”

“No fair, I'm carrying something.” He followed as fast as he could, keeping up with her fairly well. “Ha. I didn't lose too badly,” he said, as he landed.

“Hey, I can see Canterlot from here.”

“So, um, what type of music do you normally listen to?”

“I like fast paced, up beat stuff.”

“Right, I can play that.” It should happen in fifteen minutes. Twenty tops. Come on Flash, just keep her entertained for that long and the heart will do the rest. He strummed the guitar, playing through the songs he knew, as Dash continued spotting landmarks in the distance. Flash went a half beat faster on the songs, making sure all of them went at a quick rhythm, trying his best to make sure she liked them.

“You're not half bad,” she said. “But, I think it's time for me to-what's that?”

Flash looked down to the base of the palace which now glowed brightly. “You might want to shield your eyes.” Just as the glow started climbing the sides of palace, he covered his eyes until he felt the energy flow through him. He opened his eyes to see Rainbow Dash become the epicenter of the magically induced aurora. Lights of all different colors and shades enveloped her, mixing with her own rainbow colors. Her eyes kept changing hue, reflecting the myriad of colors that swirled around her.

Dash gasped, speechless from what was happening around her.

Say something cool. Flash, for once in your life, go for it and say something cool. Now! “The aurora is amazing but the rainbow inside of it is prettier.” Close enough.

A new color was added to the mix, Rainbow's bright red blush. “D-don't be so cheesy!” A smile was forming, though Flash could see that she was trying to fight it. It was actually pretty cute.

“I can't promise you that it'll always end with an explosion of color, but I would really like to spend time with you again, Rainbow.” Flash hoped that she would say yes, but prepared himself to for a no.

“...sure. We can hang out again.”

“R-really?”

“Eh, why not? Stop by Ponyville sometime. My place is the floating cloud house. Can't miss it.”

Yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes! “Sure, how's sometime next week?”

“Works for me.”

***

Later on that night, Shining Armor and Princess Cadance lay in their bed together, snuggling against one another. “Sweetie?”

“Yes, Cadance?”

Cadance nuzzled against his neck, then gave his muzzle an affectionate little lick. “I'm really proud of you.”

“For what?”

“I heard that you helped Flash Sentry get ready for his date.”

“I always look out for the other guards.”

“Still, to do that even though it could cost you the bet was impressive.” Cadance batted her eyes at him, staring into his seductively. “And I think you deserve a reward. Close your eyes.”

Shining did as told, and felt her kiss the underside of his muzzle, then his neck, then his chest. As she got ever closer to the Promised Land, he thought to himself, I've got the best wife ever.

Author's Note

I did this purely because I love the ship name, FlashDash. Come on, how can you not love a ship with the name, FlashDash? It sounds like some type of move in an action game or anime.

The Princess of Shipping vs Fluttershy

Shining Armor trudged along the trail to Fluttershy's cottage, letting out a little yawn around the halfway mark. It was early in the morning, the sun barely over the horizon in the distance. He looked ahead to his sister and wife happily chatting away about proper tiara wearing or something... he wasn't really paying attention. How do they do it? When they have a goal in mind, they can jump right out of bed at the crack of dawn and be fully awake. Maybe it's a princess thing. Next time I see Princess Celestia, I'm asking her if she has any other unfinished spells by Starswirl. Laughter from them broke through his morning grumpiness. Well, it is nice seeing them be happy together without any impending doom. They stopped and looked back at him.

“Shiny, dear, are you still with us?” asked Cadance.

He mumbled halfheartedly, “Somewhat.”

“Come on, shouldn't a guard be used to waking up early?' asked Twilight. “How did you become captain when you can't get up early?”

“A captain can create his own schedule, also it's my day off.”

“Don't whine.”

They glared at one another until Cadance giggled. “You two are adorable.”

Shining Armor chuckled as he saw Twilight turn and huff. Leave it to Cadance to make both of us feel foalish.

“Ahem, we're here,” said Twilight, pointing ahead of them to Fluttershy's cabin.

Shining Armor crossed the bridge over the creek that flowed just outside of her home after the princesses flew over the water. Shining Armor and Cadance stood back, letting Twilight be the one to knock on Fluttershy's door.

“Fluttershy, it's Twilight. I brought Cadance and Shining Armor with me.”

Fluttershy's voice called out to them, “Come in,” along with a chorus of animal sounds.

As they walked in, Shining Armor expected the cottage to be a disaster on the inside, considering all the animals she apparently took care of. Instead, it was fairly tidy. As he stood there, he felt a small tap on his right hind hoof. “Hm?” He looked back to see a mouse in a maid uniform along with a broom. It pointed to his leg and then up, so he lifted his leg, and the mouse dusted the spot under his hoof before giving nod and wandering off. Twilight wasn't kidding, she really is great with animals.

“Can I get you anything?” asked Fluttershy. “I can make some tea if you'd like.”

“We wouldn't want to trouble you,” said Cadance. “I simply want to talk to you about something, if you have the time.”

“Oh dear, I knew this was coming...” Fluttershy backed away from them, averting her eyes. “Applejack told me about that bet you two had.”

“At least that saves some time,” said Shining Armor as he looked at the animals and started petting a ferret that wandered by him.

“I'm not sure if I could-”

“It's so nice to see you having company over, Fluttershy,” said a rabbit, interrupting Fluttershy. Unlike the other rabbits running around the cottage, this one had yellow eyes and an overgrown fang.

“Anypony else hear the rabbit talk? That's not just me, right?” asked Shining Armor.

Twilight groaned. “...Discord,” she said through clenched teeth.

In a snap of it's fingers the rabbit changed into a draconequus. “Oh Twilight, it's always a pleasure to see you,” said Discord with a mischievous grin. “Ah, and nice to see you again as well, Princess Cadance.”

Cadance smiled and bowed her head in greeting. Shining Armor reluctantly gave him the same greeting.

“I know all about this silly little bet of yours and I must stop you now,” said Discord. A tuxedo appeared on him as did a pipe in his hand which had a never ending stream of bubbles coming from it. “I am a rather handsome old gentleman,” he ran a pair of fingers across one of his eyebrows, “Whose refinement is only surpassed by his ability to charm others. That, along with my friendship with dear, sweet Fluttershy surely makes me a top candidate. However, I'm afraid I must sink this little ship of yours.” Levitating water appeared with a ship floating on it's surface called The SS Discoshy. Discord spat out a small cannonball, literally sinking the ship and in an instant, the ship vanished. “My love for her is not romantic in the least. Why, she's the little sister I never had.” He lifted Fluttershy up and proceeded to nuzzle her. “Wait, did I have a sister?” He shrugged. “You tend to lose track of things when you get to be my age.”

“Actually, I never once considered you for dating Fluttershy,” said Cadance.

“...oh.” Discord dropped Fluttershy. “Well, it matters not. Either way, the answer would be no.”

“Um, Discord, I can answer it myself,” said Fluttershy.

“Just look at her,” he said, completely ignoring her comment. “What happens if she gets scared or worried? Who will be there to rescue her?”

“Discord?” Fluttershy tried again, getting no response.

“It's simply more stress than she can handle.” Discord started petting her. “This fragile creature can't possibly be asked to go out on a blind date.”

Fluttershy stomped her hoof, finally getting him to look at her. “Discord, that is enough!” Her stare was quickly becoming a glare. “I-I don't always need to be rescued. I'm not a little filly.”

“Are you sure? We wouldn't want you getting in over your head,” he said, his tone getting even more patronizing than it was before.

“Yes.” Fluttershy spun around to face Cadance. “I'll gladly go on a date with a stallion you choose,” she punctuated that statement with a huff. Her eyes grew and her lips twitched.

She just realized what she agreed to, thought Shining Armor.

“W-wait, I didn't... I-I...” Fluttershy stammered.

“Fluttershy, I promise that I'll be extra careful in finding a nice stallion for you,” said Cadance. “And I'll start right away. Come along you two.” Cadance turned to the door and walked out, along with Shining Armor and Twilight.

“Are you sure about this? She didn't seem happy with the idea,” said Shining as the trio walked back towards town.

“She's just a bit worried. Once the date is underway, she'll be fine,” said Cadance. “What do you think Twilight?”

“If he does manage to put her at ease, then it could go well. Otherwise, I'm not so sure.”

“I agree with Twilight,” said the talking tree they just passed.

Wait... Shining Armor's ear twitched. Slowly he turned his head to look back, seeing that the tree in question had a smiley face. It didn't take long for Shining to notice that they were the same yellow eyes from before. “Discord?”

“Nope. I'm just a simple talking tree. Don't tell me you haven't seen more around. My family was vacationing at the Crystal Empire just the other day.”

“Ha ha, very funny. Come on out, Discord,” said Twilight.

The tree's mouth opened and out slithered Discord, the face disappearing right after. “Twilight, you simply must learn to have fun once in awhile.”

“I have plenty of fun, for your information,” she replied.

“So, Princess Cadance, would you like to thank me now or later, after the date?” asked Discord.

Cadance stepped back away from him. “Thank you? You nearly ruined any chance we had of talking her into it.”

“Actually, no he didn't,” said Shining Armor.

“Glad to see somepony was actually paying attention.”

“What do you mean?” asked Twilight. Her and Cadance looked to Shining to explain.

“He tricked her. He patronized her on purpose to make her angry enough to agree to it without realizing it,” said Shining Armor.

Twilight turned to Discord, “So, you actually want her to find a boyfriend?”

“The other day I caught her reading a romance story and sighing oh so contently at the sappiness of it all. Underneath that shy exterior, I believe she loves love. And despite what you may think of me, I do want Fluttershy to be happy. Besides, if it goes wrong, I can always turn her into a dragon to scare the guy off.” With that he vanished.

“I can't believe I'm saying this, but that was actually a pretty nice thing he did,” said Cadance. “Perhaps he really isn't all bad.”

“No, he's still a jerk for the most part. He simply has a morality pet,” replied Twilight.

***

As the three of them got back to the library, Cadance asked, “Twilight, could you tell me about every musician that lives in town?”

“You want to pair her up with a musician?”

“Well, I remember you telling me before how much she loved that little group Rarity and Big Mac were in, and how she secretly enjoys singing, so it'll give us the best chance of success.”

“Um, Cadance, I'm not so sure about that. She can't sing in front of others.” While she's was doubtful that this could work, Twilight did pull out a town registry and starting listing each pony from it she knew to be a musician, either professionally or as a hobby. “You know, you can't just put together two random ponies that just happen to like music and expect them to fall in love.” Twilight felt Cadance's presence as she stood behind her and then felt a hoof gently patting her shoulder.

“Of course not. One would have to be crazy to think love of music alone would keep two ponies together, we will still have to find one with the right personality. However, it can be a good starting point. They will have something to break the ice and with a pony like Fluttershy, that ice must be broken if we are to get anywhere.”

“I know, but... there's just so much that can go wrong here. As sensitive as Fluttershy can be, if something does go wrong, she won't even try dating again for years. And if Discord has something planned for it... ugh, Discord getting involved.” Cadance's wing went over Twilight's back, pulling her tightly against her side. The close presence and warmth from her sister-in-law soothed away some of the doubt, turning Twilight's tense expression into a soft smile.

“Have I ever let you down before?” asked Cadance in a calming whisper.

“Never.” Twilight leaned against Cadance and nuzzled her neck. “And I know you never will. I'll have the list done in five minutes.”

***

The scent of flowers and grass hung in the air around the park, helping to calm Fluttershy's nerves... somewhat. I shouldn't have done this. I should just go to Cadance and-No. I'm not going to back out of this. I-I'm not a little filly. I know I can handle one da-

“Hello.”

“Eeeeeee!” Fluttershy leapt off the ground and landed as her body went rigid.

The other pony came out from behind her and walked around her, letting her see him out of the corner of her eye. “Sorry about that, kitten. Didn't mean to startle you none.” The stallion was blue, both in terms of his mane color and his fur color; though the mane was darker. “No need to be afraid of just little ol' me.”

“O-oh... okay.” I will not be afraid. I will not be afraid. Fluttershy took a deep breath and slowly exhaled, calming down her body. “I'm Fluttershy.” Now that she was actually getting a good look at him, he seemed familiar. “Um, have we met before?”

“Not sure if we'd ever been formally introduced, but I've seen you around town, and I make a point never to forget a pretty mare. My name is Blues Noteworthy, though just Blues is fine. A first date ain't a time to act all formal.” He had a smile that radiated a laid back confidence that matched well with his deep voice.

“So... where would you like to go?” asked Fluttershy, slowly gaining some hope that the date would go well.

“I know of a nice little watering hole in town that's perfect for this. But first, there's something I forgot to get.”

“Oh?”

Blues looked down around his hooves searching for something; though what it was, Fluttershy couldn't guess. “That should do.” He bent down and bit through a flower's stalk, lifted it up, and placed it behind her ear. “Meant to buy you one before I got here, but that should do.”

“T-thank you,” replied Fluttershy.

***

“O-oh my...” Fluttershy hid behind her mane as they reached the 'watering hole' he spoke of. She knew she had heard of the term before but she wasn't expecting this.

Blues held open the door to The Sweet Treat, a bar. “Ladies first.”

One tentative step after another and both were inside. He led her towards the bar counter as Fluttershy looked around. The occasional pony sat around at the tables and there was a stage with some spotlights hanging overhead. While there was plenty enough light to see, it was certainly darker inside, giving the bar an intimate atmosphere.

“Blues!” exclaimed the bartender, Berry Punch. “Always good to see ya!”

“Well, I couldn't think of a better place to bring my date,” he said as he sat down on one of the stools.

Fluttershy sat next to him. “You come here often?”

Blues nodded. “This place is one of my regular gigs. Every weekend I play on that stage over there.” He pointed to the one she saw coming in. “Oh, Berry, she's not much of a drinker I'm sure. Could you get one of your fruit punches without the liqueur. I'll take a mixed drink, with raspberry juice.”

“Coming right up.” In a moment Berry had both orders in front of them.

“So, Cadance told me that you enjoy to sing?”

Fluttershy's cheeks heated up. “Well, I do... but not in front of others.”

“Stage fright?”

She nodded.

“That's a shame. Twilight was there with Cadance and she said you had a beautiful singing voice.”

Fluttershy's cheeks grew hotter and she sunk down into her seat. “It's just that... when I'm in front of others, I can't do it. Even if I tried, I don't think I could force my voice to even come out. The animals I take care of are the only ones I sing for.”

“What if it was a small crowd? Say...” He looked around the bar. “Ten ponies?”

“Oh no. No no no no, I couldn't.”

“What if I said, I think I know a way around your stage fright?”

“Y-You do?”

“Maybe. But, you're gonna have to trust me, alright?”

Fluttershy went quiet, not sure what to say. She loved the idea of entertaining others with her singing, but the actual act of doing so... having all those eyes staring at her, watching her every move, ready to laugh at the first mistake she makes. “I...” She turned to him and saw him patiently waiting for her answer. “W-Will they laugh if I mess up?”

“Nah, you don't need to worry about that. No pony's gonna laugh at you. I should know, I've messed up plenty of times on that stage.”

“So... what's your idea for me to, um, not be afraid?”

He smiled. “Hey Berry, my spare sax is still in the back room, right? And you don't mind a little impromptu jam session?”

“Right where you left it and that's fine with me. Not like you haven't done it before.”

“Perfect.” Blues slid off the stool and reached out to Fluttershy. She took his hoof and slid off as well. “Now, I want you to close your eyes and use your wing to follow me.”

“O-Okay, if you say so.” She shut her eyes tight and brushed her wing against his side.

“I'm going to lead you and while we're walking, just picture yourself being back home with all them animals. Think you can do that?”

Fluttershy nodded and using her wing against his side, followed him around until she felt the hardwood of the stage under her hooves. She mentally replaced her surroundings with her back yard: picturing all the animals running around, the wood smell that came from the Everfree Forest, and sense of being the only pony around.

“Stay put. I'll be right back.” True to his word, he was only gone for a few seconds. “Now, picture yourself being in front of your animals. They're smiling and waiting for the pony that takes care of them to sing. You aren't singing to ponies, just a few cute critters.”

The animals in her mind drew closer, standing around her, waiting to hear her sing to them. After a couple attempts, she forced her mouth to open and lyrics came out.

“I may be shy, almost all the time

But I'm finally going to draw the line

No running scared, no warning chimes

I will be just fine.”

Her voice was shaky and quiet, but the words were coming out.

“Gotta be a little louder than that. They can barely hear you.” He started playing, the sounds of the saxophone going with the rhythm of what she sang already.

Fluttershy's voice rang out louder, making sure all her cute little animals could hear her.

“This isn't where I want to be

Locked away where they can't see

This feeling, won't define me

I'll soar into the sky...

I want to sing, a pleasant song

To be heard, that can't be wrong

On a stage, I want to belong

Please can you hear me?

I'll tell you when, I feel ready

Count the days, there's so many

But I'll stand firm, my legs steady.

Please can you hear me?

Ohhh ohhh ohh ohh....”

After the 'animals' started to cheer and stomp of their hooves, she cracked open her eyes. “I did it? Oh my gosh I did it!” She smiled from ear to ear having done something she thought she might never be able to do, but then she realized, “I did it,” and started whimpering as her eyes snapped back shut.

“Guess there ain't gonna be an encore, huh?”

She shook her head and ran behind him, hiding from all the eyes out in the crowd.

“That's enough excitement for one night, I suppose. Wouldn't want to overwhelm you.” He walked back to the bar, finished his drink, and left behind some bits, as well as his instrument. “Let's get you home, alright?”

Fluttershy squeaked and nodded her head.

***

The pair were about halfway to her cottage. Fluttershy stared down at the path as she walked, trying to think about what she just did. I did it. I really did it. I sang in front of others... and they liked it! “T-thank you,” she said, barely above a whisper.

“Think nothing of it. It's always a shame to see a talent go to waste because of a silly thing like stage fright. You did real good back there, kitten,” replied Blues.

“I can't believe you can perform in front of others every weekend.”

“Oh, not just every weekend. I have regular gigs during the week too, usually in Canterlot. Though sometimes in Manehatten.”

“Oh... you travel a lot?”

“Yep. A musician isn't any good if he gets stuck in a rut. Gotta always try to get your music to new ponies.”

“Hm...”

The rest of the walk was mostly in silence, except for the occasional bird chirping over head and crickets in the grass on either side of the path. Finally Blues spoke up once they reached the cottage. “You've gotten mighty quite there, something on your mind?”

“It's just that...” Fluttershy bit her lip, thinking the best way to say it. “You travel a lot and... and are always playing in front of others. And...” She shut her eyes tightly and was just about to finish that thought when Blues spoke up.

“And it simply ain't going to work out, right?”

Fluttershy nodded. Please don't hate me.

“Ya didn't have to be scared to say that. Hey, these things happen. Dating is like combining two different styles of music. Sometimes it sounds fantastic and other times its, to put it politely, a disaster.” Blues shrugged. “Better to find out that our songs just don't match early on than to try to force it to be longer, you know.”

Fluttershy looked down and rubbed her foreleg with her hoof. “S-Sorry for wasting you time.” Of all the responses she could have expected, he surprised her.

Blues laughed. “Wasted time, eh? I'm not so sure about that. Are you happy you went out with me?”

Fluttershy mulled over the question in her head. Today, she had finally done something she's secretly wanted to do for a long time: sing in front of others. Even if she never does it again, she'll remember that she got to know what it feels like to do it at least once and to have a crowd cheer for her. Also, if she was willing to swallow her worries to go on a blind date in the first place, perhaps she would be able to find stallion more her speed in the future. She blushed and nodded. “Yes.”

“And I certainly enjoyed it. Sounds to me like that time was used pretty well. Who cares if it didn't lead to anything if we both enjoyed it, right?”

“R-Right.”

“I'll see you around, kitten. Oh, and if you ever want to try singing in front of others again, just let me know. You can join my weekend gig.”

“That sounds... fun.” She waved goodbye before opening her door to the sight of a rabbit glaring at her and pointing to the clock. “Oh, I was supposed to feed you an hour ago.” Fluttershy rushed into her kitchen and began chopping up vegetables together. As she did so, she started humming and quietly singing, ”I may be shy, almost all the time...”

Author's Note

Sorry for the long wait. With this chapter that brings the score to 2-1 with Cadance in the lead. Also, thanks go out to Videomaster (http://www.fimfiction.net/user/videomaster21XX) for coming up with the song lyrics for me.

The Princess of Shipping vs Applejack and Rarity

“Come on Apple Bloom, these doors ain't getting any lighter,” said Applejack as she made her way through the crowded market with two new doors for her apple cellar on her back. They were thicker and stronger than the old doors, these would be more likely to withstand getting hit by falling fillies during failed attempts at getting cutie marks. The downside of the new ones though were their weight. It was nothing that Applejack's muscles couldn't handle for now, but they were getting a work out, and the sooner she got them back to the farm the happier she'd be.

The sound of hoofsteps came up from behind her. “Ah don't see why we needed to get new ones. Ah could have fixed the latch no problem. “

“'Cause it was just gonna break again. If ah can't trust the doors to hold up around you and your friends, then I doubt they'd hold up well in a storm either, should we need to stay in that cellar during one.” Thankfully the other early morning shoppers were nice enough to clear the way for Applejack while she was carrying a heavy load. It wasn't so bad as long as she could keep moving forward and not have to stop.

“Could ya at least let me carry one, to help?”

“Sorry sugarcube, but ah think these are a bit too big to be carried by a filly. Ah'll let ya help me install them if it'll make ya feel better.”

“Oh, look over there!”

“Apple Bloom, ah can't be stopping and looking at everything we pass. Could ya just tell me what it is?”

“It's Twilight and Princess Cadance, and they're coming this way.”

“What?” Applejack came to a sudden halt, and Apple Bloom ran into the back of her leg. She looked over and the two princesses were heading their way. “H-hey Apple Bloom? Ya still want to help?”

“Of course ah do.”

“Right well,” Applejack kneeled down and let the doors slide of her back, onto the ground. “Tell you what, ah'm gonna let you carry them the rest of the way.”

Apple Bloom blinked a few times while looking at the doors. “You're kidding, right?”

“Nope.” Applejack backed away from her, hoping that Cadance hadn't seen her yet. “You're a big pony now. Ah know you can handle it. I've got to... do a thing. Um, a thing with Rarity, to... help Rarity.” She turned tail and quickly trotted away.

***

“And that... should... do it! Perfect, as always.” Rarity placed the brand new scarf around the neck of the mannequin. Her stomach rumbled, letting out a rather unladylike sound. “Ahem, yes well, I suppose I have earned myself a treat for completing that as quickly as I did.” She reached out and adjusted the scarf, making sure it wouldn't slide off. “Now, you wait right there and I'll be back later to make sure you have no imperfections.” She patted it before grabbing her saddlebag and opening up her door to an unusual sight: Applejack sitting there staring at the ground while muttering something under her breath. “Applejack?” Rarity slowly approached her. “Is something wrong, darling?”

“Wah!” Applejack's hat fell off as she jumped back. “Oh, it's just you Rarity.”

“Yes. 'Just' me. “ Rarity got close, right up to Applejack's side. “Now then, would you mind telling me what it is that has you acting in such an unusual manner?”

“...ah saw Princess Cadance earlier.”

“So, it's your turn for a date, huh?”

Applejack shook her head. “Nope! Ah ain't going on one.”

“Really?”

“Yep.”

“Do you want to come inside and talk about it?”

Applejack turned away. “Ain't nothing to talk about.”

“Fine then, do you want to come in for some tea?”

“Sure.”

Once inside the pair had an awkward silence until the tea is ready to serve. Rarity placed a cup of it in front of Applejack. “Let's talk about it.”

Applejack groaned. “Rarity, ah said ah didn't want to.”

“It's fine. I completely understand why you don't want to go on a date,” said Rarity before sitting down across from Applejack and sipping on her cup of tea.

“Ya do?”

“Indeed I do. You run a farm that requires you to be devoted to it as a full time job. You can't just go running off on dates whenever you feel like it.”

Applejack seemed to perk up as Rarity sided with her. “That's right.”

“And even if you wanted to, it'd take you time to figure out a proper schedule to allow for a boyfriend.”

“Yeah!”

“And it's not like you're in need of a partner. You're perfectly happy with your life the way it is.”

“Ah'm glad somepony understands.”

“The only thing holding you back from just telling Cadance that is that you won't allow yourself to lie to her.”

“That's right.” It took a moment for Applejack to realize what she just agreed to. “Hey!”

“Listen Applejack, I would be more than willing to support those reasons if they were true but we both know they aren't. You haven't even been able to look me in the eye when talking about it.” Rarity got off her seat, walked around the table, and places her hoof on Applejack's hoof. “Applejack, please tell me what's wrong.”

“Ya promise not to laugh?”

Rarity gasped. “I would never laugh at something troubling one of my friends.” She pouted. “I can't believe you'd even need to ask me that.”

“Sorry. It's just a might embarrassing is all. Ah... ah...” She pulled her hat over her face. “Ah ain't ever went out on a date before and ah'm scared of making a fool of myself, okay?”

Rarity pressed her hoof to her mouth, attempting to hold it back as little squeaks of laughter broke through the sides of her muzzle.

“Rarity!” Applejack slid off her chair and started to leave the room. “That's it, ah'm leaving.”

Rarity gave up, dropping her hoof and letting it out. “Hahahaha. W-wait! Applejack.” As the last of the giggles leaves her system, she tugged on Applejack's tail with her magic. “I'm sorry darling, really I am.”

“Gee, why would you ever think that ah'd laugh at you.” Applejack's expression became tight-lipped.

“Applejack, I most certainly was not laughing at what you think I was.” Rarity walked up to Applejack and laid her foreleg across Applejack's back, pulling the farm mare into a hug.

“Shoulda just kept my dang mouth shut.”

“That is not the attitude to have about this, Applejack, and I meant what I said, I was not laughing because you never went on a date.”

“Coulda fooled me.”

“I was laughing because of how dramatic you were making it sound.” Rarity's face turned to a playful smile as she walked around in front of Applejack, to look her in the eyes. “If I didn't know better, I'd say some of me was rubbing off on you. Tell me, have you had sudden urges to check your make up? To curl your tail? The desire to be swept off your hooves by your dream prince?”

Applejack rolled her eyes. “Oh, ha ha.”

“Seriously now, there is no need to be grumpy. If it makes you feel better, I do apologize for laughing at you.”

Applejack shook her head. “Nah, don't worry about it. Look, ah know ah'm probably overreacting here.” Applejack's ears droop as she lets out a sigh. “It's just that it seems like everypony but me has at least been on one date growing up. Even Fluttershy's been on a date before me.”

Rarity reached out and held her hoof to Applejack's chest. “Then why not use this as your chance?”

“Oh yeah and make a fool out of myself because ah don't know what to do on one. Thanks but no thanks.”

“Oh please, you make it out to be some big hassle with a bunch of unwritten rules. Being on a date is just about two ponies that are attracted to one another enjoying each others company, Nothing more. But...” Rarity walked away and into her sewing room. Hearing that Applejack was following her anyways, she didn't bother to call for her. “Let's see...” She held up some half finished dresses. “This would take too long to finish.” She tossed it aside. “This is simply too formal.” It got placed back on the pile. The only one left was a black dress. “Ah, eloquent in its simplicity. Kinda like you in a way.”

“Ah ain't sure if that's a compliment or an insult.”

“Oh, I'll need to make proper foreleg holes for it, and cinch the waist a little, but that should take no more than an hour.” She spun it around in front of her, examining it from multiple angles. “Perhaps some lace... nah. That would be going too far for this and I don't want to have to rush it.”

“Rarity, would you mind letting me in on whatever it is you're up to.”

“I will in one moment.” She carefully folded the dress and sat it down on the pile. “But first, I need to go get somepony. Be a dear a stay put.”

“Ah doubt ah have much choice.”

***

About twenty minutes later Rarity, Applejack, and Princess Cadance sat in Rarity's front room. “And that's the situation. Applejack is fearful of being embarrassed. I think the best way to deal with this is to have an experienced friend with her to reassure her that everything will be alright.”

“Oh, I can make that happen.”

“I knew you would understand.”

Cadance's horn lit up. “Now, just stand still and you'll be a stallion in no time.”

“Oh, okay... wait! No!” Rarity waved her forehooves in front of her.

“I thought you were volunteering to be her date?”

“Now that would be just plain weird,” said Applejack.

“While I'm sure I would make for a rather dashing stallion, that was not my intention. I simply want you to find two stallions so we can go on a double date.” Rarity turned to Applejack. “With me around, you have nothing to worry about.”

“If'n you say so. Ah still think this could end badly, but if you'll be there, ah'll give it a shot.”

“Now that's the Applejack I know.”

“Um, Applejack?”

“Uh, yes, Princess Cadance?”

“Is this the reason why you fled from us earlier and left you sister to try to carry two heavy doors larger than she is?”

“I... I...” Applejack's eyes grew big as she sat in silence for a moment. Finally, her ear twitched. “I gotta go!”

“Applejack!” said Rarity.

“Ah ain't running away. Ah'll go on the date, but I need to take care of something right now!” She took off.

“...care for some tea? Applejack didn't drink hers.”

“That would be lovely.”

***

Applejack ran past where she left her sister and the doors, seeing no sign of either. Where could they be? Ain't no way Apple Bloom got them to the farm on her own.

Applejack didn't slow down, going full sprint until she got near the farm house. “Apple Bloom? Where are you?”

“Ah'm around the side of the house.”

Applejack trotted around the corner to see Twilight holding one of the doors in it's place with magic as Apple Bloom screwed on the latch – the hinges had already been attached to both of them. “Twilight?”

Twilight glared at her. “Apple Bloom asked me to carry them since the pony responsible for them ran off, leaving her behind.”

Apple Bloom spit the screwdriver out of her mouth. “Yeah! Good thing my other sister was there to help me.”

“Other sister?” asked Twilight and Applejack in unison.

“Well, she will be when she marries Big Mac.”

Twilight's face turned red and she released the door, letting it slam shut. “Uh, w-we haven't really thought that far ahead.”

“Well, if it's any consolation, ah think you did a real good job of putting on them hinges and the latch.”

“Ah did, didn't ah?”

“Yep! And ah'll make sure to let you pick out something nice next time we're in the market. Okay?”

“Hm...” Apple Bloom gave her a heavy stare but then perked up. “Okay. I forgive you.” She grabbed the screwdriver and trotted off, likely to put it away.

Applejack walked over to the doors and open both before shutting them again to test them. “Hope it wasn't too much trouble getting them here.”

“No, it was simple enough...” Her voice sounded distant, as though her mind was miles away.

“You're thinking of a wedding with Big Mac, ain't ya?”

“N-No, of course not.”

“Sure, whatever you say... sis.”

***

A day later and Applejack was back outside Rarity's door. Well, guess it's time. Just, be polite, smile, and hope you don't trip up. She reached out and opened the door, to see Cadance and Rarity standing together, talking. Rarity was beaming. She had one of the biggest smiles Applejack ever remembered her having.

“Hope ah ain't late.”

“Applejack! We were beginning to worry that you ran off,” said Cadance as she waved for her to come closer using a wing. “Do you want to hear who your date is or do you want it to be a surprise?”

“For this, ah don't want any surprises,” said Applejack as she walked up to the pair of them. “Ah want to know as much as possible going into it.”

“That's understandable and I have good news, you already know your date. It's a pony who has worked on your farm, Caramel.”

Applejack raised an eyebrow. “Really?”

“Does it surprise you?”

“Yep. Ah never would've thought that Caramel would agree to this. Ah wouldn't call him timid, ah suppose, but he sure ain't that confident.”

“He didn't volunteer on his own. I had a pleasant chat with your brother about what type of stallion would suit you. Caramel happened to be with him at the time and Big Mac pushed him into doing it. Said that he'd trust Caramel to treat you right.”

Applejack rolled her eyes and huffed. “Okay, now that makes a bit more sense. Figures Big Mac would want me to be with somepony that already helps on the farm and is a friend of his.”

“Any objections to the choice?”

“Nope. Caramel is cute, ah suppose. If he's willing to step up and give it a shot, ah'll give him a chance.”

“Applejack, do you plan on going like that?” asked Rarity.

“And what is that supposed to mean?”

“Well, you should try to look your best for a stallion taking you out. Surely you could leave your hat at home and let your mane loose. I'll even brush and wash it for you.”

“Oh, that's a swell idea. Throw me into something that already worries me and then take something that can make me feel a bit more comfortable,” she pointed to the hat, “away.”

Rarity groaned. “I should have known better than try to convince you to leave it behind. At the very least let down your mane and let me give it a proper brushing.”

“Fine.”

***

Later that day Applejack followed along with the group, Caramel at her side and Rarity and Fancy Pants leading the way. No wonder she was so happy about it.

“Applejack?” came a quiet voice from her side.

“Yeah Caramel?”

“Um, I just wanted to make sure you actually wanted to do this,” said Caramel as he stared at the ground.

“Don't you worry none, ah'm here cause ah decided to be here. Ah weren't pushed into it.” Poor stallion. He seems almost as lost about what to do as ah am. Hm, what would Rarity do to get a stallion to open up more? As they walked, Applejack inched closer to him, hoping he wouldn't notice. Hope ah don't mess this up. She brushed her tail against his flank, which succeeded in getting his attention.

Caramel turned bright red, quickly turned his head to look at her, and then promptly fell over his own hooves, going face first into the dirt road with a thud. Both Fancy Pants and Rarity looked back.

“Good heavens, what happened?” asked Rarity.

“Ah didn't mean to make him trip like that!” Applejack extended her hoof to Caramel. “Sorry about that, partner.” Great... what next?

Caramel hesitated for a moment and then took her hoof. “N-No, it was my fault.”

The pair walked the rest of the way to their destination in silence. As they approached their destination, The Ponyville Cafe, Caramel rushed ahead and opened the door for the all of them.

Well, maybe he does have some confidence after all. Applejack waited for the other couple to go in first and then followed, making sure to thank Caramel with a smile and a tip of her hat as she passed. He smiled back at her as they briefly made eye contact.

“You two can order the meals, Applejack and I need to visit the little filly's room.”

“We do?”

Rarity hit Applejack hip with hers. “Yes, we do.” She turned back to the stallions. “We'll try keep this short.”

Not wanting to argue with Rarity, Applejack followed her into the bathroom.

“Okay, now tell me what happened back there.”

Applejack's nose wrinkled up in annoyance. “Like ah said, just an accident.”

“That doesn't tell me anything.”

“Fine, if'n you need to know that badly, ah tried to flirt. Celestia knows ah see you do it often enough, ah figured it'd be simple.”

Rarity shook her head. “Oh Applejack, what ever am I going to do with you?” Her horn lit up and she Applejack felt her hat being pulled up. Just as she was going to complain, “Your mane can be troublesome when not tied back, huh?” Rarity used her hooves to brush back loose strands that had gotten out of place, making sure all of it was behind her ears and over one shoulder before putting the hat back. “You and I are very different ponies. Just because that's my style doesn't mean it's what you should do.”

“Then what should ah do?”

“Be the polite, straightforward, strong-willed mare that I've come to consider one of my closest friends. Underneath your rough edges you have a charm that few can match.”

Applejack's cheeks burned and turned red at the compliments. “Ah'll try my best.”

“That's more like it. Now, I believe we've made our dates wait long enough. Shall we?”

“Yep.”

After walking out and finding their dates waiting for them at a table, they sat down. The food arrived a moment later. “Fancy Pants, how have things been in Canterlot?”

“Oh, the usual. Though I did get the honor of planning a charity ball recently. Even Princess Celestia and Princess Luna made an appearance.”

“I'm sorry I missed out on that,” said Rarity.

“Ah don't know, aren't those things usually boring?” asked Applejack.

“Applejack! A formal party is most certainly not boring,” said Rarity.

Fancy Pants chuckled. “Well, I can say that this one certainly wasn't.”

“What happened?” asked Caramel.

“Well you see, there was this young mare there who apparently had quite the fear of spiders.”

“Uh oh. Ah think ah see where this one is going.”

“An hour or so in, all my guests were walking around, mingling with one another. This mare was standing by the concession table with a young colt, her brother if I'm not mistaken. As I made the rounds, checking on everypony and ensuring they were enjoying themselves, I spotted a spider sliding down from the ceiling and landing on her head.”

“Oh good heavens.” Rarity shivered and quickly checked the top of her mane. “That poor girl.”

“It gets worse. I was going to try to flick it away with magic before she was alerted to it; sadly the colt near her didn't think before speaking. As soon as he said it was on her head, she jumped back and forth, shaking head, and kept bucking, doing anything to try to knock it off.”

“I hope she didn't accidentally kick some pony,” said Caramel.

“I'd be mortified if I did that,” said Rarity.

“What she did may have been far more embarrassing. She kicked the table and sent the punch bowl flying across the room. When it finally landed, it came down right on Princess Celestia's head, leaving her drenched.”

Applejack let out a whistle. “Dang. It's one thing when you mess up in front of others, it's a whole new problem when your mess up hits Celestia.”

“The party stopped immediately as everypony stared at Celestia in shock. The poor mare looked absolutely terrified. It was as if she was in front of a full grown dragon. Not a single pony was willing to move or make a sound for a moment, until Princess Luna burst out laughing while pointing at her sister. I can't say the others ever fully recovered from the sight during the party but she at least broke the ice enough for the party to continue.”

“And what of that poor girl?” asked Rarity.

“You don't need to worry about her. Princess Celestia went over and talked to her, making sure she would be fine.”

***

They had finished their meal while trading stories of their recent exploits. After a while, Applejack was starting to feel a little left out as there's only so many times you can tell a pony about growing a gigantic apple or making the occasional trip to deliver apples or seeds to other places. They finished the last bites of their meal, paidd the money due, and walked out. Once more Applejack and Caramel ended up behind Rarity and Fancy Pants. The next destination was the town park, a perfect spot to simply sit and get to know one another, according to Cadance.

“Applejack, I noticed that in all your stories about the farm, you generally only mention yourself and your older brother. Don't you have more helpers?” asked Fancy Pants.

“We do hire part time workers like Caramel here to help out at times, but we can't afford to keep steady ones around.” Applejack picked up her pace to get next to Fancy Pants, leaving Caramel's side. “That leaves Big Macintosh and me to do all the hard work during the rest of the year.”

“Oh? Is the farm tight on money?”

“Ah wouldn't go that far. We make enough to maintain the farm and live well enough off it. We just can't go spending the family's bits whenever and where ever. We got to keep to a budget.” As they walked Applejack swore she heard Rarity say something, but didn't pay much attention to it. If it was important, Rarity would make sure to get their attention somehow.

“If I'm not mistaken, your name comes from a type of alcoholic drink, right? One similar to brandy.”

“Yep.”

“Can you make it?”

“Course ah can. In my family, you'll never hear the end of it if you can't make what you’re named after.”

“Is there any special significance behind the recipe you use?”

“Yep. It was made by my great great granny, over two hundred years ago. Well, that and it kinda played a part in why I'm here now.”

“Oh?”

“As Granny Smith tells it, ma and pa were celebrating something. Ah think it was some great harvest, but ah can't remember. Anyways, the important part is that for this, they decided to break out a really old barrel of Great Great Granny Applejack's special blend. Eleven months later, ah was born. After that, it just felt right for them to name me Applejack.” Applejack stopped and so did he. “What, do you want me to make you some or something?”

“While I would love to try some, I was thinking along the lines of a business venture. A way for you to get extra bits for all your hardwork.” He raised his hoof and waved it as he said, “From a family with centuries of experience growing apples comes a drink whose recipe has been passed down through the generations, Apple Brand Applejack. Pressed and bottled by a mare whose very name comes from the drink itself. Don't just pick up any old liquor, you deserve the best.”

Applejack scratched her chin, thinking over what he said. “Ah don't know. Ah'm proud of what ah grow and what ah make with it, but ah'm not sure ah'd be comfortable gloating that much.”

“Think nothing of it. Just fancy wording to catch their attention. What really matters is the taste and quality; I'm sure there will not be an issue with that. We just need proper bait to reel them in first.”

“Well, that makes sense ah suppose. Though, ah ain't sure ah'll be able to meet some high demand. If needed ah could get another plot of land and grow some extra apples just for it.”

“Actually, that's great that it'll be a bit rarer in the beginning. It'll go out to a who's who first. The right nobles being seen drinking something that's uncommon along with the advertisement will make all of Canterlot's upper class want it. Price early on will be high and then we can lower it as you make more, making ponies rush to get it once it's more affordable. Slightly more affordable, anyways.”

“Now hold on, ah don't want to be charging too much. It ain't right to be jacking up the price like that. It don't take that much to make it.”

“You aren't just charging them for the materials needed but for the time and care you put into the product. This is a product that you're willing to stake your family's name on. Not just theirs but even your own. Surely that shouldn't be devalued.”

“Well...”

“Besides, it's not as though you're doing anything dishonest by it or forcing them to pay more than they have to. Nothing is stopping them from getting a cheaper, less worthy drink.”

“That's true. But ah have to ask, why are you so interested? Ah know you're not as self-centered as some of the noble folk in Canterlot, but it's hard to believe you'd help me without expecting anything in return.”

“Well, you have me there. At the ball I spoke of earlier, there were some complaints about the quality of food. Turns out going with a cheaper supplier was not a smart move this time. For helping to make sure this goes well, perhaps I could get a discount from your family's farm. Maybe ten-”

“Eight. Ah'd be willing to go that high of a discount but no more. 'Least not until ah'm sure selling my applejack will really bring in that kind of money.”

Fancy Pants chuckled and clapped his hooves. “My compliments to your parents and grandmother for raising a shrewd daughter. So, we have a deal?”

“Maybe. Ah would have to talk this over with mah family first, but ah think they'd go for it.” Applejack extended her hoof. “Looking forward to working with you, partner.”

“Like wise.” They shook hooves.

As Applejack released his hoof she looked forward, finally taking note of where they were. They had passed the last house and were part way up the path towards Sweet Apple Acres. “Uh oh. This... this is bad.” Applejack facehooved and shook her head. “Would you look behind us, Fancy Pants?” She didn't pay attention to his movements, only waited for an answer.

“Oh dear... It appears that we've misplaced our companions.”

“That just figures. On my first date, I end up ditching the poor stallion.”

“It was purely a mistake on our part. I'm sure if we properly explain that it was merely an accident, they'll understand. I hope.”

***

“Applejack! Fancy Pants! You two are going the wrong way!” Are they ignoring me? Hmph! Rarity gave a little stomp of her hoof. She would simply have to rush up and get them herself. But as she stepped forward, she felt Caramel pulling her back.

“Wah!” In the process of stopping her, he stumbled forward, going face first into a mud puddle.

“Good heavens, Caramel. Are you alright?”

He stood up, with mud covering his muzzle, the front of his neck, and his chest. “It's, um, not the first time I've fallen in mud. I'm just happy I kept you from stepping in it. I know that you don't like getting dirty.”

“Oh. Oh! I was about to step in it, wasn't I? Why Caramel, thank you ever so much, but now you're all muddy.” She leaned to one side to see around Caramel. Applejack and Fancy Pants looked to be long gone, having walked up the road without him. “You certainly have better manners than a certain stallion and a certain mare we know.”

“If we hurry, we can catch up to them.”

“A lady should not have to run after her date, especially not after he walks off with another mare.” Using her magic, she brushed some of the mud off of Caramel. “Nor are you in any position to finish a date. Come with me back to the boutique. I'll have you cleaned up and looking even better than you did before.”

“That's not necessary. I can just go home to wash up.”

“Nonsense, you're only muddy now due to trying to help me, so I won't take no for an answer. This way.” She started to walk forward but quickly stopped. “Actually, considering what just occurred, we should walk side by side.”

***

Back inside the boutique's kitchen, Rarity busied herself with pouring hot tea into a pair of cups, while keeping her ears perked ready to pick up hoofsteps coming down from her bathroom. Fifteen minutes or so had passed since their return, and she sent Caramel up to wash off the mud. I do hope he doesn't mind scented soaps. I really ought to buy non-scented ones for emergencies like this. Her ear flicked as she finally picked up his steps. “I made us something to drink, Caramel. Come and sit down.” She pulled out a seat for him with her magic.

“Y-You really didn't need to go through all this for me. I was just happy to help,” he said as he entered the kitchen and sat down on the chair. “You seemed upset already and I knew getting dirty would have only made it worse for you.”

“That it most certainly would have.” She sat on the opposite side of him. “Did you find everything you needed in my bathroom?”

“Yes. Though this is the first time I've ever smelled like lilacs. Uh, not that I'm complaining.”

Rarity giggled. “For what it's worth, I'm sorry that your date with Applejack took this turn of events.”

“That's okay, actually.”

“Really?”

“It's just that, I don't really like Applejack. Um, like her like that. I mean, I do like her as a friend but I don't-”

“You don't need to worry, I understand what you're trying to say. Though I do question why you would agree to a date with her when you have no romantic interest.” She leaned forward on the table, curious of his answer.

“Big Mac pushed me to do it. He said he could actually trust me with his sister and thought she'd be a good influence on me, make me less shy around others.”

“Still, you should have told him right then and there that you were not interested.”

Caramel slumped down in his seat. “I know, but Big Mac always sticks up for me when I make a mistake on the farm and he's my closest friend. I usually go along with anything he asks.”

“No wonder he believed Applejack would have had a good influence on you, she would make you stick up for yourself more often.” Rarity sipped the tea, the delicious taste mingling with her tongue and warming her body from the inside out as it went down her throat. “Ah. I am already starting to feel better about tonight's fiasco of a date.” A knock echoed in the building, followed by two more. “They're right on time. Shall we go greet the ponies who left us behind?” He nodded and followed her to the door. Once upon, just as she thought she would, Rarity saw Fancy Pants and Applejack standing there. An annoyed grin formed as the left side of her lips curled up. “Oh, what do we owe the pleasure of your visit?”

“Rare, look, we're sorry. Ah mean it, it was an accident. We didn't mean to leave you two behind.”

“Indeed,” said Fancy Pants. “Please accept my most humble of apologies. I take full blame for steering the conversation where it went, thus causing the distraction.”

“Yes, well, that's all nice and good, and I suppose I won't hold a grudge. Now if you'll be so kind as to excuse me, I'm having a private talk with my friend, Caramel.” She turned to him, giving him a stern look. “Isn't that right?”

“I.. I.. y-yeah.”

“Come on, Rarity, don't be like that.”

“I shall speak to both of you later, but for now, I bid you good day.” She shut the door before they could say more. She held her muzzle high as she let out a small, “Hmph.”

“Maybe you shouldn't be so hard on them. It was an accident. I-I don't want to see you staying mad at Applejack over this.”

“You needn't worry about that.” She turned and headed back for her table. “I'll speak to her in a day or two, and to Fancy Pants next week when I have to visit Canterlot.” She sat and quickly drank the rest of the tea in her cup, letting it help sooth her irritation. “I am upset now but I am not so petty as to allow this to disrupt an important friendship or my business relationship with Fancy Pants. Though I certainly will not be going on another date with him anytime soon.” Caramel took his seat across from her again. Rarity pouted as she stared at her cup, rocking it back and forth. “Is it really too much to ask for?”

“Hm?” he grunted while drinking from his cup.

“Have I not done enough? In stories, the beautiful peasant mare who raises herself up, who becomes the hero, always gets her prince. I have been the element of generosity, I have dealt with diamond dogs, and I have built a successful business. Is getting a handsome, attentive prince who devotes himself to me really too much to ask for?” She crossed her forelegs on the table and leaned forward, resting her chin on them. “It isn't fair.”

“Well, maybe you could aim a little lower. Maybe you could take a stallion and make a prince out of him. Isn't that something a fashion designer would do?”

“Heh. You almost sound like my mom. She always told me to make the most out of anything you can get, and not take it for granted. But you know what?” She raised her head and smacked the table with her hoof. “You are absolutely right! As a premier fashion designer it is my duty to bring out the inner beauty of ponies. By Celestia, if I can't have a prince come to me, I'll make a prince.” At this moment, she started studying Caramel a little closer. Her lips spread out into a large smile as she thought of the way he valiantly stopped her from stepping into the mud, the way he made it a point to politely hold the door open for them, and his concern for her potentially upsetting her friends. Well, he is pretty cute.

“R-Rarity... why are you staring at me like that? It's, um, a little scary.”

Yes, he could make a solid foundation. “Tell me, Caramel, how would you like to go on a date?”

His face turned bright red and all that came out was a squeak.

“I'll take that as a yes.”

Author's Note

Come on guys, speak up. Last update got on the feature box but didn't have much in terms of comments. Let me know what you think.

The Princess of Shipping Epilogue

On her back with her wings spread wide laid Princess Twilight Sparkle, watching the rain hit her balcony door. She closed her eyes as she listened to the rhythm of the storm, occasionally broken up by the sound of her two guests.

“Ah ain't in a rush for no second date,” said Applejack, the annoyance coming through clearly in the gruff manner she spoke. “Look Rarity, ah ain't angry with you or Caramel, and ah ain't upset about how it went. It ain't like Caramel and ah were going to be staying together for that long anyhow.”

“Are you sure you don't wish for help in meeting a nice stallion?” asked Rarity.

“Yes. If ah do meet somepony and we get along well enough, ah'll consider asking him out, and ah'll even ask you to help me get ready. Until then, ah'm fine being single.”

“Very well, I shall back off for now. Just know that you can come to me if you need any help and I promise not to end up with your date again. That was terribly rude of me.”

Twilight opened her eyes just in time to see a bolt of lightning arc its way from cloud to cloud in the murky sky above.

“Twilight, are you still with us?” asked Rarity.

Twilight continued looking at the sky for a second before sitting up to face Rarity and Applejack. The odd couple of her friends were sitting on her guest bed, just across the room from hers. Rarity was brushing Applejack's mane, struggling against a knot, and Applejack seemed content to let her. “Sorry girls, I guess I spaced out there for a moment.”

“It's fine. A princess needs her relaxation, after all.” Rarity tugged hard on the brush and Applejack winced. It didn't go peacefully, but the knot had been taken care of. Rarity beamed, proud to protect a good mane from a bad knot. “Phew, I don't know you managed to get knots like that but its gone now.”

Applejack slid her hoof through her mane, encountering no resistance. “Thanks Rarity. Thought for a moment ah was gonna have to cut that thing out.”

“Oh Twilight, since the topic of dating has been brought up already... how many have you and Big Macintosh gone on yet?” asked Rarity, as she leaned towards Twilight with her ears perked up.

“W-well... we haven't actually gone on one yet. Heh heh.” Twilight nervously laughed while looking away.

Rarity's jaw hung open for a good couple of a seconds before she could react. “Good heavens, you can't be serious!”

“Big Mac and I like keeping things casual. Instead of formal dates, we just spend time together.”

Rarity went to say something only to be stopped when Applejack put a hoof to her chest. “Rarity, if it works for them, then let them be. Personally, ah'm just happy to see Big Mac get out a bit more often.”

Rarity sighed but didn't argue. “Very well, you won't hear any complaints from me.” She went back to smiling as she added, “Despite my objections to not even having a single date yet, I do hope things are going well for you two.”

Twilight nodded. “I never realized how nice it was to have somepony around that really listens the way he does. I'm sure when I start talking about arcane magic or other fields of studies, he doesn't understand half of what I'm saying. Yet, he always seems interested when I talk and mentions that he's proud of me whenever I mention doing something.” Twilight's cheeks turned pink as she continued, “And even when we aren't talking, it's nice to feel him against me when I read.”

“For what it's worth, he is always in high spirits when he comes home after spending time with you.”

Rarity squeed loudly in delight, taking both Twilight and Applejack by surprise. “Eeeeh! You two sound absolutely adorable when you’re together! I am positive you're relationship will last.”

“There is one thing bothering me,” said Applejack, rubbing her chin. “Whatever happened with that bet between your brother and Princess Cadance?”

“Oh, It was a tie.”

“A tie?” the other two said in unison.

“Well, technically Rarity and Caramel were on a date set up by Cadance. She could have claimed a victory. However, so could Shining Armor, since Cadance failed to be the one who actually got them together, as she picked a different date for Rarity. So, in a best out of five competition, they tied at two and a half. At least with the technicalities.”

***

“From now on, I’ll be paying a lot more attention to what I sign,” whined Aegis. The large, pregnant mare waddled down a hallway of the crystal palace, returning to her bedroom after yet another trip to the bathroom. Her swollen ankles ached with each step, and her heavy, milk laden teats rubbed against her thighs, sending little spikes of pleasure from the sensitive mounds. However, she did her best to hide that bit. “Can't believe my own little sister wrote in that trap.” She was flanked by the handmaid Span on one side and the guard Fencer on another.

“To be fair, your highness, it wasn't much of a trap. It simply said, the pony who doesn't win instead of loser,” said Span.

From Aegis' other came a steady snicker, as Fencer tried to hold back his laughter. “If you laugh, you're doing a hundred wing-ah!” Aegis shuddered and rubbed her belly.

“Is something wrong, Princess?” asked Span.

“T-they kicked...” She couldn't say for sure, but she swore the spell was making her feel two different foals inside of her, and neither one liked to sit still. “Let's just hurry.” They walked the rest of the way silence, Aegis staring down at the floor the whole way, trying to ignore how alien all of this felt.

A whole new challenge reared its head once she was safely back inside her bedroom: actually getting up on the bed. As she got close, she reached out with her hooves and raised her front half on it. That was the easy part. She jumped up but her stomach was pushed out too far and was too heavy to clear the edge of the bed. Her breaths were heavy, labored, but she would not be deterred from getting on up her own bed. She tensed up and readied her legs to push in unison. With a fiery yell, she forced herself to go forward. Though it took every ounce of strength her body was willing to give her, and her muscles were straining, she was winning. In that one moment she was proud, showing that she wasn't helpless, only for gravity to crush her spirit and pull her lower half back down to the floor. She ended the same way she began, only one half on the bed and no way to finish the job.

“Uh, hey, captain? If you want I can go look for a box or crate or something in one of the storage rooms. You could have a little step to help,” said Fencer.

Aegis groaned. The comment only served to make her feel even more useless while stuck in this form. “Fine, you can do that in a moment, but first...” She stopped and considered making another attempt on her own, her pride practically demanded it. However, she knew when she was beaten. On this day, the bed was simply the superior of the two. “Could you two give me a little push?” Despite clearly asking for both of them, only one approached her. “Fencer?” She turned her head and looked back at him.

“Uh...” He turned towards the door. “You know, I could get one of the female guards to come and help you.”

Aegis growled. She furrowed her brow as she spoke, “Fencer, as a princess of the Crystal Empire and captain of the royal guard, I am ordering you to grab my ass and push me onto my bed. Is that understood?!”

Fencer snapped to attention with a salute. “Yes, ma'am.”

Aegis turned forward and readied herself. Soon enough, each of her cheeks had a hoof pressing against them. “On the count of three. One... two... three!” She pulled herself forward, sliding onto the bed as Span and Fencer pushed her forward. The combined forces of gravity and the bed were no match for a princess with loyal subjects. Her victory would come at a cost, however. As she was sliding along on her stomach, her teats got smooshed between her and the bed. As one might imagine, such pressure on them forced the milk to go the only place it could. Now halfway across the bed, there were several wet spots from the edge to her.

“Don't worry, Spic and I can have that cleaned up for you in a bit,” said Span. “But, you should let Cadance or somepony -- trying to put this nicely -- milk you. It might prevent accidents like this.”

Aegis wanted to just disappear. She levitated a pillow over her and covered her head, hiding from the world. “I'll take it under consideration,” she said, the pillow muffling her voice. “Could one of you just get me some of my books?”

“I'll grab them,” said Fencer, before trotting out of the room.

Her stomach growled. “And get me something to eat too. Something salty!”

***

Spic walked into the dining hall, spotting the pink earth pony at the end of the long table. She carried a tray with a large glass of tea on it, with a straw sticking up out of the top. “Mistress?” she called out as she approached. Getting closer, she noticed that Cadance's chin was resting on the table with her eyes shut. She had dark lines under her them, from the stress and lack of sleep that comes with taking care of a pregnant spouse. “Mistress?” A small snort was the only response. Spic sat the tray down and gently shook Cadance.

Cadance shot up. “What is it? Does Aegis want me to rub her stomach again? Get her something to eat?”

“No, I sent Span and Fencer to take care of her.”

“Oh.” She returned to resting her chin on the table. “Sorry, it's just... she woke me up three times during the night. Every time, I forget that my horn was gone and kept trying to use magic to grab stuff...” Cadance yawned. “I-is that for me?”

“I thought you could use a pick me up.” Spic slid the large glass over to Cadance.

“I don't need a straw. I do know how to hold things with my hooves, you know.” Cadance tried to reach for it, only for her hoof to be stopped by Spic's. She raised her eyebrow, likely wanting an explanation.

“Mistress, you know I'm completely devoted to you, right?” She got a nod for an answer. “I would clean up any mess you make without hesitation. However, I would also like to prevent them when I can. You have already destroyed three cups. Mistress, you are quite frankly horrible at using your hooves when you're tired or stressed. As somepony who has served you for half your life, I am asking you to please just use the straw.” Though she knew Cadance allowed her and her sister to speak their minds freely around them, she would normally never imagine being quite this forward with her. However, the last cup was destroyed by flying against Spic’s side, spilling the tea on her. She did not want a repeat performance of that freak accident.

“Fine. But only as a favor to you.” Without picking it up off the table, Cadance slid it a little closer and sipped from the straw for a moment. “Remind me to never make a bet again.”

“Understood, Mistress.” And I promise to never tempt you two into into a wager like this again.

Author's Note

I accidentally put this chapter in the original Kinds of Love. Sorry for the mistake folks. It's fixed now.

Anyway, sorry for the delay as well. I wrote a couple of oneshots in the mean time. Hope you enjoy the chapter and any comments are appreciated.

Late Night With The Princesses

Twilight looked out across the town of Ponyville from her library's balcony. Her half closed, unfocused eyes caught sight of the occasional pony or two walking about even though the sun had long since set. Despite her best efforts to stifle it a yawn forced its way out. It was on nights like this that Twilight cursed the more obsessive side of her mind, as it had once again robbed her of precious sleep.

Her attention turned from the streets to the stars, and she tried to spot the constellations, though her current weariness made that difficult. The sound of heavy hooves on wood behind her shattered Twilight's concentration. She softly grunted, giving acknowledgment to Big Mac that she's heard him. He sat next to her and she felt his hoof rubbing her back. Another grunt, this one more drawn out, was her simple way of saying thanks.

“I hope I didn't wake you,” said Twilight.

“Nope.” She didn't believe him, but chose not to argue the point. She turned to him and saw the curiosity in his eyes. “Can't sleep?” he asked.

She started to respond but closed her mouth, and thought of what kind of answer she should give. Part of her didn't want to say it out loud, to do so would be admitting her own perceived weakness. A princess shouldn't be weak, she reminded herself. Then again, if she couldn't talk to her own boyfriend – albeit new boyfriend, but boyfriend nonetheless – about this then what was the point of having one? She sighed and forced the words to come out, “Sometimes at night when I try to sleep, I get these thoughts. Usually they're doubts. Either way, once my mind gets going at night I can't seem to stop it. Coming out here usually helps me to relax.”

“Whatcha thinking about tonight?” he asked.

Twilight fluffed up her wings. “My role in Equestria. Before, when I was just Celestia protege I could think to myself, even if I mess something up the princess will fix it. It was comforting to know that there was somepony above me. But now, I am one of the princesses. If something goes wrong, I'm one of the ponies others expects to fix it. I can't show fear or anger during a crises. I have to be strong and calm regardless of what I'm feeling, because the ponies of Equestria need me to be that way. If something does go wrong, and if I'm forced to be the leader of all of them, can I do it?” She hung her head and added in a whisper, “I'm scared that the answer will be no.”

“Having to be strong for other folks is real tough, but ah'm sure you'll do just fine.”

Twilight looked up at him with a raised eyebrow waiting for there to be more, but nothing else came. “How can you be so sure?”

“Ah can't, but it don't do no pony any going to think otherwise. 'Sides, you've already saved us a few times. Ain't like being a princess is going to make in a difference in that, 'cept that ya might be flying while doing the saving.”

“I know... but it feels like I can't convince myself of that.” Another yawn came out, followed by one from Big Macintosh. “I-I should be fine. I just need to time to sort out my mind. You can go back to bed if you want.”

“Nope,” he replied.

Twilight leaned against him as her lips curled up into a small smile. It made fighting these doubts a little easier.

***

Inside of Canterlot's palace Princess Celestia poured herself another glass of wine. “Kree!” shouted Philomena who was setting on her perch nearby.

“No, you can't have any,” replied Celestia.

“Kree kree!”

Celestia rolled her eyes. “You most certainly cannot handle it. The last time I let you have some, you set my garden on fire."

“Kree!”

“The gardener had off that day, so don't go trying to blame him.” A knock at her bedroom door cut off the conversation. It slowly opened to reveal Princess Luna. “Yes, little sister?”

“I heard from the staff that you were still up and wished to make sure you were alright.” Luna stepped into the room and eyed the empty wine bottle and the now half empty bottle. “If I may say, sister, you seemed off today and here you are drinking late at night. You only do this when you start missing those of the past.”

Celestia swirled the red wine in her glass. “Is a thousand year old princess not entitled to have the occasional morose day?” She sipped from the glass.

Luna scrunched up her muzzle. “Sister, you've been saying that you are one thousand since before I was banished.”

Celestia shrugged. “It's an easy number for our subjects to comprehend.” Celestia's mood lightened and she chuckled before continuing. “It's a shame you weren't around the last time I told them my actual age.”

Luna tilted her head. “Oh? Enlighten me.”

“Have you ever heard of the old Ponyville story of the longest day?”

“Yes, Twilight taught me that story. About seventy years ago there was a time when a great light came from Canterlot and shined down onto Ponyville just around the same time the moon had arisen. They believe it was your magic but no one is certain. They figured you must have had your reasons and decided to leave it be.”

“The only reason it's a mystery is because I wanted to forget that night. To make a long story short, the head maid at that time asked me when my true birthday was, since she noticed we never celebrated it. At first I didn't wish to tell her, but the poor thing seemed to have her heart set on giving me a proper birthday party. I admit, I was also curious what it was like to have one again, since it had been so long. I went ahead and told her my true birthdate and allowed her to set everything up.”

“Sister, I fail to see how this is connected to the longest day.”

“What do they normally serve at birthday parties?”

“Cake.”

“And what items are usually sticking out of a birthday cake?”

“Candles. One for every...” The realization slowly dawned on her as her pupils shrank to small specks. “They didn't.”

“They did. One for every year I've been alive. That light Ponyville experienced was in fact my fully lit up birthday cake. It took hours to put it out.” Celestia pointed to Philomena. “It didn't help that she was dancing in the flames.”

Luna's jaw hung slack for a moment before she could respond. “B-but... but they make candles in the shape of numbers. They only needed four of those.”

“To take such a shortcut with the princess would be unforgivable. They had to go all out. That was the answer she gave me.” They stared at each other in silence for a second or two before both started laughing.

“I'm sorry I couldn't have been here to see that,” said Luna as her laughter died down.

“They probably would have just tried to make a cake for you too.” Celestia finished off the glass of wine. “Sister, I'll be fine. You can return to your duties while I think of the past.”

“At least promise me you'll go to bed soon.”

“I promise.”

***

High up in the crystal palace, inside the living quarters of the royal couple a pink princess in crystal armor was stretched out across his couch, laying on his stomach. “Come on, say it,” he said.

From the bedroom came the reply, “No. I feel silly.”

“Aegis, I once dressed up as one of your comic characters for you, so no complaining about this.”

Aegis groaned but gave up arguing about it. “Fine.” After a bit of grumbling she said, “Oh help, help. Whoever will come to my rescue.”

On cue Eros rushed to the door and opened it. Aegis stood there in a long, flowing princess dress. “You needed fear my lovely princess, for your hero has arrived.”

“But the dragon? What happened to it?”

Eros laughed, doing his utmost to make it sound heroic. “No dragon could stop me, my love.” He nuzzled her. “Now, with the wizard defeated and the dragon gone, we are finally free to consummate our relationship.”

Author's Note

This is going to be the final part of Kinds of Love: The World. I hope you guys enjoyed these little side stories set between Kinds of Love and the eventual third part of the series (that one will have an actual overarching plot, I assure you). I had two other side stories planned for this but I think they'll fit in better with the third part.

I'm Busy

Twilight sat at her desk and looked through the lesson plan for her brand new Basics of Magic: Theory and Control class. Celestia had suggested the idea. She believed that Twilight's experience with powerful magic at such a young age would make her the perfect candidate to help teach others how to control their magic. For Twilight's part, she was quite happy to jump at the chance to be a mentor to others like Celestia had taught her.

“It's just one thing after another,” said a less than eager Spike.

“Hm, what was that Spike?” she asked, not really paying attention to anything going on around her, or even lifting her eyes from the notes. First comes a test on their basic abilities, and then we'll spend time practicing visualization. Then perhaps channeling... gotta make sure to get to some basics on mediation as well.

“I'm just saying Twilight, ever since you got back from visiting your brother and Cadance, you've been busier than ever. If you aren't studying potions with Zecora, then its working on your ca-”

“It's not my castle,” interjected Twilight.

“Oh please, we all know Celestia is going to give it to you. Why else would she suddenly be worried about its restoration?”

Twilight's attention turned from the paper to Spike. “I can think of quite a few reasons,” she said with a huff, firmly believing that there was no chance an entire castle would be given to her.

“Because royalty is never given their own castle.”

“Spike!”

“Ugh, fine, working on THE castle. And if it's not that then it's talking to Rarity about the history of fashion trends, helping Luna get caught up on what happened over the last thousand years, or trying new recipes with Pinkie Pie.” Spike patted his stomach. “That last one you can keep doing though, no complaints here on that one.”

“Well, yes, I have been busy over the last week-”

“Month.”

“Over the last month. Ponyville gets busy sometimes, Spike. Things come up.”

“Right, 'things just come up'.” He rolled his eyes, and crossed his arms. “I'm sure it has nothing to do with what you went to talk to Cadance and Shining Armor about.”

Her nose wrinkled and her tail swished, sure signs that Spike just touched upon something she wish he hadn't. “What are you saying?”

“It's awfully convenient that you're doing all this instead taking their advice and just talking to Big Mac. Instead, every time I remind you, you're always,” just to add emphasis, he included air quotes with the final bit, “busy.”

The two stared at one another for a few moments, until the library door opened, breaking up the stand off. “Oh, would you look at that, they're here.”

Being new to teaching, Celestia had to start small, and Twilight did just that. There were only two students and both were special cases. Rather than seeking help voluntarily, they were both forced into it due to magical mishaps. The identity of the two being her friend's little sister, Sweetie Belle, and a stallion that had just moved to town from Canterlot, Evening Storm.

“Welcome and come in. Please, pick anywhere to sit.”

They walked in and both sat by the table in the center of the room, seeing as how there wasn't many other places to sit.

“Sorry, I've been meaning to get some chairs and a couch to put in here.”

“But something keeps coming up,” added Spike.

“That is enough from you.”

“Um, it's alright,” said the sheepish stallion. He had an unruly blue mane, and black fur. Sweetie nodded in agreement. Both looked glum, as if they expected some long lecture any minute from her.

Wow. Hope I never gave Celestia that look. “Listen up, I don't want you to think of this as a punishment. You're simply students here to learn, and that's how I'll treat you. I'm not going to be strict nor will I expect you to learn everything overnight. I'll do my best to be patient and work with you two for as long as you need.” Both of them seemed to perk up. “Let's begin with introductions.” She pointed to Sweetie Belle first.

“I'm Sweetie Belle, nice to meet you,” she said to the stallion.

“And why is it that you're here?” asked Twilight.

“Do I have to say it?” she whined.

“Yes.”

Sweetie Belle sighed and did as she was told. “I'm here because I caused my sister's coat to change colors.”

“What colors, if you don't mind me asking?” asked Evening.

“Well, normally her fur is all white like mine. But I might have kinda gave her yellow polka dots.”

“I swear, I could hear her scream from halfway across town,” added Twilight. “Evening, your turn.”

Evening bowed his head in a gentlemanly fashion to Sweetie Belle. “I'm Evening Storm, and I have a habit of turning things into other things. It's, um, annoyed a lot of ponies back in Canterlot.”

“And,” said Twilight, pushing him to say what it was that got him sent to her.

Evening's ears went down and he donned a guilty expression. “And, I turned a guard into a filly.”

“...wow,” was all Sweetie could say.

“The actual raw power needed for that is quite impressive, I must say. I'm glad my brother suggested this instead of a punishment. I'm eager to see it in action.”

“Dust Storm didn't seem that impressed.”

“You needn't worry, she was checked out and the spell should wear off in a couple weeks. Shining even said she was due vacation time anyways, so don't be too hard on yourself.” Evening still didn't look too pleased, but he gave a slight nod. Twilight ordered Spike to go fetch a ball she had purchased for the class. When he came back, she held it up for Evening and Sweetie Belle to see. “First, I'm going to test you two on basic telekinesis. It's inflated so the weight won't be a factor. Simply lift it and spin it. Evening, you go first.”

“Shouldn't be a problem.” Evening grabbed the ball, enveloping it with his magic, and turned it clockwise. “I can at least do thi-achoo!” In a flash, the ball slammed into the floor right in front of Sweetie. Her horn sparked in surprise causing the ball change direction and smack Spike in the face, knocking him down.

“Well, it's a start,” said Twilight as she helped her dazed assistant back to his feet.

Hours passed and the lesson ended with only light damage to the library and Spike. “Phew. This might be tougher than I thought.”

“Ahem, now I think there is something we were talking about before they came?” spoke Spike, again with his arms crossed again. “I'm not letting it go this time, Twilight. Do whatever it is that you have to do, but find a way to talk to him.”

“But I'm busy.”

“Name one thing, just one thing, that you absolutely have to do right this moment.”

“Well... I... uh...”

“Yeah, that's what I thought.”

***

Spike was right, I just need to go ahead and do this. From the bits of information she had gleamed on the subject, Twilight knew that it was customary for the stallion to ask out the mare; the mare's role in most cases was to let the stallion know she was single and interested. That left one question: how?

Ding, chimed the bell.

“One minute,” came Rarity's voice from upstairs.

“Take your time Rarity, it's only me,” called back Twilight, entering the Carousel Boutique's atrium. Hope I didn't catch her at a bad time.

“Nonsense darling, I'm coming down now.” The sound of her hoofsteps got closer, until Twilight could see her coming down the stairs. “I should have stopped for lunch an hour ago anyways.”

“You haven't even had lunch yet?” A rather unladylike rumble sounded off from Rarity's stomach. “Did you skip breakfast too?”

“'Tis the life of an artist to be a slave to one's inspiration.” She held her head high, and her foreleg to her forehead, adding a theatrical flair to the statement. Another stomach growl ended the act and brought a giggle from Twilight. “Right then, care to join me for tea and a snack?”

“Sounds to me like you could use more than just a snack.”

“Yes, well, a large snack.”

“I'd love to.” She followed Rarity into her kitchen, then sat at her table as Rarity poured each of them a glass of ice tea.

“So, what do I owe the pleasure of your visit to?” she asked as she started preparing the salad.

“I was hoping for some advice.”

“Oh?”

“Advice on romance.”

First came a high pitch squee, followed by a tight hug. “Ooooh, our little Twilight has a crush!”

Twilight flailed her forelegs. “R-Rarity! I'm only a couple years younger than you!”

“Who's the lucky stallion?” She released Twilight from the sudden hug. “You were recently in the Crystal Empire, perhaps it's one of the guards there. Wouldn't that just be perfect? A knight taken from this world a thousand years ago returns and finds the love of a young princess, still growing into her position.” Rarity's eyes got that far away look, likely envisioning the scenario.

She's almost as bad as Pinkie sometimes. “No. He lives in Ponyville.”

“...oh.” It didn't sound like she even tried to hide her disappointment. “Maybe I got carried away there for a moment.”

Maybe? To avoid anymore of Rarity's guesses, Twilight bluntly stated, “It's Big Macintosh.”

“Hm, he does have a certain rustic charm to him, I suppose. Dependable, patient, and fairly easy on the eyes if I do say so myself.”

“Agreed. I need to do something to get his attention though.”

“Oh, well that should be simple enough. Ask him about himself, guys love talking about themselves. The key is to slowly get closer to him as he's talking, and perhaps sneak in a nuzzle. If that fails, then brush your tail against him. If you really want to get a rise out of him, brush your tail against the underside of his muzzle.”

Twilight drew back. “Rarity? Isn't that what you're supposed to do when you a want a stallion to... um-”

“Yes.”

“Shouldn't I try to be subtle?”

“Subtlety is great dear, but it's a luxury you might not be able to afford. There's plenty of suitors for Big Mac's heart, and you haven't even developed a rapport with him yet. This calls for you to be-” another stomach growl stopped her speech. “And we'll get you ready to right after we eat.”

***

Twilight left the boutique in a form fitting silk gown, showing off her curves. Naturally, Rarity didn't stop there. She added a stockings to Twilight's back legs, as well as some mascara and a touch of eye show. Here goes everything.

Walking through town, she could feel the eyes of others watching her. She smiled back to them, holding in a nervous laugh. The more she walked, the more she wanted to just teleport back to the library. M-maybe I should fly to the farm.

“Whoa, Twilight, you going full princess on us?”

“Who, what?” Twilight looked back and forth for the speaker.

“Up here, egghead. “ Twilight looked up to see Rainbow looking down at her from over the edge of a cloud. “What happened? Did you lose a bet with Rarity?” she asked with a snicker.

“Dash, this is hard enough as it is without your comments.”

“What is?”

“I... Just stay there.” With a flap of her wings, Twilight lifted off the ground and flew up to the cloud. “I needed Rarity's help with a boy problem,” she said in a quiet voice, trying to keep from being overheard.

“Boy problems huh? Then you should have come to me.”

“You? Why?”

“Hey, I've had a boyfriend this year.”

“Didn't you and Thunderlane only last like, two months?”

“That's still more experience than Rarity has had lately.”

“That isn't fair, she's had a lot of work.”

“The point still stands.”

I suppose that is actually a good point, though I'd rather not feed her ego. Against her wishes, Twilight went ahead and asked, “Ok Rainbow, what should I do to get Big Macintosh interested in me?”

“Oh, that part is simple.” Dash sat up straight, with her chest puffed out. “All you have to do is be awesome.”

“Be awesome? How? I need more to go off of than just that.”

“I don't know, just do something cool that most other ponies can't, and do it in front of Big Mac. Something that'll make him say, 'That there is the best darn princess this side of Canterlot, ah tell ya what. She's even got a nice rump too.'” Dash ended her poor impression of Big Macintosh by tipping her nonexistent hat.

Twilight gasped and blushed, the image of Big Mac staring at her rear end now prominent in her mind. “D-Dash! I don't want him to ask me out for my 'rump'.”

“Then why are you wearing that?” she pointed out Twilight's dress. “You probably have half the stallions in town thinking about it right now.”

“It... it wasn't my idea.”

“Hey, it's up to you who you listen to.”

Twilight rubbed her forehead as she thought it over. “Thanks Dash. I'll think about it.” She fluttered down from the cloud and continued walked through Ponyville. Something awesome that I can do... there's teleportation but I don't think he'd like me just appearing in front of him, or making him appear somewhere. Maybe reform a crystal to look like an apple. Perhaps even...

She cycled through possible spells to show him until an inviting scent caught her nose, causing her to lick her lips. Finally paying attention to where she was, Twilight noticed that Sugar Cube Corner was right up the road. The scent of all the sugary treats compelled her to come closer. I suppose having another snack wouldn't hurt.

***

Pinkie waved. “Hiya Twilight!” The bakery seemed unusually deserted. Aside from Pinkie, there was only Fluttershy – who sat near the counter, talking to Pinkie – and a couple ponies eating their food off to the side.

“Twilight, you look really pretty today. O-oh, not that you don't look pretty on other days, it's just, you seem dressed up for something,” said Fluttershy.

“Well,” Twilight looked around to see if any others were paying attention, “there is a reason for it. But firs-” Before she could finish Pinkie put a blueberry muffin and a cheese danish on the counter. “How did you know?”

“Because it's Friday.”

“Am I really that predictable?”

“Yes!”

“Remind me next time to try other stuff.” She slid a few bits across the table and bit into the muffin, giving a happy, “Mmmm.”

“So Twilight, what's the occasion?” asked Pinkie. “Did you just feel extra princessy today? Celestia is visiting? Declaring your love to a handsome prince?”

“That last one isn't far from truth.”

“How romantic,” said Fluttershy. “Is it somepony we know?”

Twilight nodded. “Big Macintosh.”

“Hm, Twitosh? No, that isn't good. Big Light? Better but still doesn't sound good.”

“Pinkie, what are you doing?”

“Oh, nothing important.”

“Twilight, how are you going to do it?” asked Fluttershy.

“I'm still not sure. I need to get his attention somehow. You know, make him want to go out with me.”

“Make him laugh,” stated Pinkie, as though it were the most obvious answer.

“Huh?”

“Think about it, if a pony makes you laugh, then you're going to like them.”

“That's a surprisingly insightful idea. Wait a minute, Pinkie, have you had a boyfriend before?”

“Hm, an actual boyfriend?” She tapped her chin as she thought on it. “Nope. I just have some ponies that I have fun with.”

Twilight, no. Don't do it. For the love of Celestia, don't ask her to define what kind of fun she's talking about. You do not need to think of Pinkie getting around like that. Quickly trying to move on,Twilight said, “So, um... how should I get him to laugh?

“Maybe you can try telling a joke,” said Fluttershy.

“Yeah. Go ahead, Twilight. Let's see what you've got.”

“Um, alright. Give me a moment... Oh, I got it. One atom says to another, 'I think I lost an electron.' The other responds, 'Are you sure?' The first atom says, 'I'm positive!'” Twilight smiled brightly and looked back and forth between her two friends.

Pinkie fell on her back, laughing hard at the joke. Fluttershy on the other hand, stayed quiet. “Um, excuse me, I really, really don't want to sound rude, but I don't get it.”

Pinkie springs back to her hooves, stopping her laughter in that instant. “Me neither.”

“T-that was just a warm up. Ahem, how do you know that the moon is almost broke?” After a short pause, letting them say they don't know, Twilight finished the joke, “Because it's down to its last quarter.” Nothing but a blank stare was the response. “So... Spike recently had to have his left side removed. Don't worry, he's al-RIGHT now.”

Fluttershy gasped. “Oh, the poor dear.” She stepped closer to Twilight, her eyes full of concern. “What happened to him?”

Twilight waved her forelegs. “No Fluttershy, it was just a joke. Spike is fine.”

“That's a horrible thing to joke about.”

“Twilight, maybe I should tell you some jokes,” said Pinkie.

“Gee, thanks,” said Twilight, giving a huff after it.

After writing down Pinkie's suggested jokes, she stepped out of the bakery and sighed. Now, how do I do this without looking like a complete idiot, or is that too much to ask for?

***

Twilight walked along the road to Sweet Apple Acres, and entered the farm as she meticulously planned her approach. Ok, so when I find where he is, I shoot through the air, doing another magic-boom, and try to make it red this time. Then, I land and tell one of Pinkie's jokes, gotta make sure the delivery is sharp and has no hesitation or stuttering. Finally, brush my tail against his chin and make sure- Oof! Twilight fell to the ground, kicking up a small dirt cloud in the process. “...ow.”

“Twi, you have the bad habit of mutterin' your thoughts when they got off on a tangent,” said Applejack, picking her hoof off of Twilight's tail. “Sorry about that, sugarcube, but somepony had to stop you before you made a fool of yourself.”

“A-applejack? Oh Celestia, I was saying that out loud?!” She covered her face in embarrassment. “J-just how much that did you hear?”

“Enough to put two 'n two together. You're comin' up here to talk to Big Mac, ain't ya?”

Twilight nodded.

“Alright, let's get you back to your hooves. Rarity would never forgive me for messing up a princess' dress.” Applejack took Twilight's hoof and pulled her back up. “Listen up, sugarcube, you ain't the first mare that has come up here to try to get Big Mac's attention. However, you are one mare that I would gladly welcome into the family.”

Twilight shot her a curious glance. “So... you'll help me?” she asked with a tone of cautious optimism.

“Yep. 'Sides, ah'm tired of the mares in town always asking me about him.”

“I never really thought about it, but it must be tough having a good looking brother.”

“Well, ah'm sure you know how it is, but at least your brother is already married.”

“Wait, are you talking about Shining Armor?” She broke out into a giggle. “That big dork? Ha!”

“That big dork is a handsome prince, and all of us girls would gladly take him if he was single. You shoulda seen how ticked Rarity got that you never introduced us to him before he got engaged.”

“What? Ugh, no. But, this is Shining Armor we're talking about. You all wanted to... with him of all ponies?” Twilight made a face like she was going to be sick. “Ewww.”

“Welcome to the club. Ah admit, ah don't see why all the other girls make a fuss over Big Mac either. Guess we little sisters are blind to it.”

“Can we please go back to the main topic?” Twilight pleaded.

“Fine. Here's what you gotta know, Big Mac ain't got much experience with socializing. 'Cause of that, he don't pick up on subtleties all too well. If you want to go out with him, you're gonna have to be the one to ask him out.”

“B-bu-but,” Twilight stammered. The prospect of being the one to ask him out had never occurred to her and seemed to fly in the face of courting rituals. “Everything I read said-”

Applejack raised her hoof to stop Twilight and cut in. “Would you rather go with the normal rules, or the one that gives you a chance in this specific case?”

Twilight tried searching for a counter argument, but all she found in her mind were arguments supporting what Applejack had said. “The latter.”

“Good. Pony up, march yourself to the north field, and ask him out on a date.”

***

Searching for Big Macintosh proved to be easier said than done. However the quiet walk mixed with the apple and wood scents of the orchard did help to calm her nerves. After a few more minutes of walking, she heard the sounds of another pony walking through the area, a large pony. Following the noise, she saw Big Mac using one of the trees to scratch his side. She stared in awe at the movements of his thick muscles and the beauty of those green eyes. The corners of her lips twitched up into a smile, and her wings rose. Had she not been there with a specific goal, she would have gladly continued to watch the wonderful sight. This is it. Walk up, ask him out, and get it over with.

“Excuse me, Big Macintosh, may I please have a second of your time?” asked Twilight, stepping closer to him.

Big Mac turned to her and nodded his head. “Eyep.”

“I know we haven't talked much, but I just wanted to say that... that I think you are a great guy.” She closed her eyes, finding it easier if she doesn't have to look at him while asking, “Would you care to accompany me on a date?” Please say yes, please say yes, please say yes. She slowly opened her eyes and saw Big Mac staring at her. She hazarded to guess that he must be thinking it over.

“Eyep.”

“R-really?”

He nodded.

“Yes!” Her wings flapped in excitement, and she started laughing. “You have no idea how much of a relief it is to hear that.”

“Knew you had it in you,” said a voice from behind her. She didn't need to turn to know that it was Applejack. “Hey big brother, ah can take care of the rest of the chores for today. You and Twilight can head out now if ya want.”

Big Mac nodded in agreement.

“That sounds great. Let's stop by my library first. I want to change into something less formal and grab some bits.”

***

They walked back to the library while Twilight told him about her day and the advice that she was given. He laughed at the thought of her actually trying to do all of the different approaches at once. “It's funny now but at the time it was nerve-wracking.”

“Are there really that many mares that wanna date me?” he asked.

Through their talking, Twilight had quickly learned that Big Mac was oblivious to his popularity. “Only about half the town's worth, give or take. Here we are.” They stood at Twilight's front door. “This shouldn't take long. Feel free to look at a book while waiting.”

She opened the door, and stood aghast. Her library looked as though Discord just went through it. Books flew like birds, circling around Spike, Sweetie, and Evening Storm; her table was somehow stuck on the ceiling; a couple brooms were carrying buckets of water into the kitchen; and if all that wasn't enough, Spike was now bright pink. “Oh thank Celestia that you're back!” cried out Spike.

Evening and Sweetie both bore guilty faces. Sweetie was the first to speak. “It was all his fault.” She pointed to Evening.

“Hey!” he retorted

Twilight slowly started to close the door.

“Twilight, you can't leave me alone with them. Twilight, no!” The door clicked when it shut, and stopped Spike's cries for help.

“Big Mac, let's just go back to Sweet Apple Acres.”

“Eyep.”

Author's Note

Evening Storm is the OC of Videomaster21XX I hope you liked the first impression of him, since he will be returning in the sequel. Picture of him here: http://i.imgur.com/CrYHHjW.png

The al-RIGHT joke comes courtesy of the cartoon Eek the Cat, a highly underrated 90s cartoon. You should be able to find most of the episodes on youtube.

Hope you enjoyed and please, add to any group that you think it fits into. Thanks.

A Maid's Tale

Spic and Span busied themselves cleaning up the royal living quarters. Serving the princess of love meant that the bedspread needed to changed quite often, usually due to various fluids left behind by the royal couples' exploits. The pair of maids were nearly identical in appearance: earth pony, light-grey fur, and blonde manes. Since they didn't enjoy others getting them mixed up all the time, they had made it easier to tell one another apart. Span's mane was cut short, while Spic's mane was pulled back into a ponytail.

As Spic put the finishing touches on the bed, placing the pillows in their rightful spot, she listened to Span talk about some get together the others were planning.

“We're going to that karaoke bar, The Crystal Song. Oh, and a bunch of the guards will be there too. It'll be really fun. We can even stay as late as we want, since we have tomorrow off,” said Span. She nudged Spic's hip, causing Spic to look back to her, giving her full attention. “So...”

“So... what?” asked Spic, raising an eyebrow. She wasn't sure if she liked where this line of inquiry was going.

“So are you going?”

Spic scrunched her nose and turned her lips downward. “Drunken ponies singing badly? As fun as that sounds, I think I shall pass on this one.”

“Alright, I’ll rephrase, are you going on your own free will or do I have to drag you there?”

Spic stared at her sister.

“Sis, I'm not going to sit here and watch you become a hermit. Or worse, an old cat lady.”

“I don't even own any cats!”

“Not yet.” Span sat down, and went through the motions of petting a cat, and then put on her best impression of Spic, “Oh, how nice to see you sister. You're just in time for Puss'n'boots' birthday party. Isn't that right kitty... indeed.”

“Hardy, har sister. You fancy yourself to be quite amusing, don't you?” said Spic, with an indignant huff.

“Just answer me this, besides me, how many friends do you have?”

“Well-”

Span lifted her hoof, cutting off Spic. “And before you say any of the other palace staff, unless you hang out with them off the clock, it doesn't count. Those are coworkers that you happen to get along with.”

“Okay, so I do not possess some extensive social network. That does not make me a hermit.”

“Sister, you're going. And so help me, you will make some friends.”

***

Roughly an hour later, Spic sat in The Crystal Song. While others danced around and sang on stage – usually off key, mind you – she was on her lonesome at the bar with a half filled glass of hard cider. Her ears laid flat against the sides of her head. “Oh, they won't be too bad at singing, sis. You might enjoy it,” she grumbled, copying what her sister had told her. “Yes, real enjoyable.”

“Excuse me, miss?” came a soft, male voice from behind her. It had none of the drunken slur the others did and was surprisingly quiet. “Is this seat taken?”

Spic turned to see a dark blue pegasus with a silver mane. If she was recalling correctly, he was one of the guards, though his name escaped her. “Go ahead,” she replied, nonchalantly.

He plopped down onto the stool next to hers. “So, um... great party. I guess.”

She responded with a flat, “Sure,” before taking a sip of her drink.

“Yeah, I'm not much of a party pony either. My friend, Fencer, dragged me here.”

“I know the feeling. It was my sister that dragged me here. Didn't want me to be an old cat lady, she said.”

The stallion laughed, but zipped up when he saw Spic turn and stare at him. “Sorry.”

Spic shrugged. “Nothing for you to apologize for.”

They sat there in an awkward silence as the seconds slowly ticked away. Spic spent the time looking at her drink. While I appreciate sister's concerns, she could have at least taken me to a less boisterous location.

The stallion broke her train of thought, when he spoke up again. “So, you must have been part of Canterlot's staff that came over with Captain Shining Armor and Princess Cadance.”

“I suppose the fact that I'm not a crystal pony gave it away. I have served my mistress, Princess Cadance, for many years before she took her rightful spot upon a thro-”

“AND IIIIIII WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOUUUUUUU!” came a loud singing voice from behind them, the worst part being that it was her sister.

“Hey, want to go outside? Should be quieter out there,” suggested the stallion.

“Gladly.” She finished her drink in one gulp, payed off the tab, and followed the guard pony outside. The door closed behind them, blocking nearly all the noise. From this spot, it was hard to tell that there was any party at all. Once more, Spic was able to hear her own thoughts.

“I'm Typhoon, by the way. It's nice to meet you.” He reached out one of his forehooves.

After studying it for a moment, Spic returned the proper show of manners and shook it. “Spic.”

“So, like you were saying, you've worked for Princess Cadance for a long time?”

Spic nodded. “Correct. I actually became the personal servant for the mistress when she was a mere teenager.”

“Wow. The princess doesn't seem like the type that would have had personal servants that young.”

“She wasn't spoiled if that's what you're inferring. I came to be in her service though unique means. Otherwise I doubt she would have accepted having anypony wait on her. The princess prides herself on being self reliant. At least far more so most of the nobility.” Spic smiled as she talked of the princess, taking pride in serving a mistress like her.

Typhoon sat down as he listened to her, leaning back against the The Crystal Song. “It sounds like you enjoy it.”

“The work can be trying at times, but yes, I enjoy working at the palace and for Princess Cadance.”

“Those unique means, what were they? If you don't mind me asking, that is.”

Spic went silent, the smile vanishing.

“You don't have to say what happened if you don't want to, but it beats awkward small talk until the party is done.”

Spic looked back to the door, thinking of just how long the party might go on. Her sister's words about not having to go home early replayed in her mind “I'm inclined to agree. Very well.”

***

My sister and I do not come from a well off family. Matter of fact, it was just the opposite, we barely got by. It hadn't always been that way. While we weren't rich, we did well enough when mother was employed as a maid, but then she was fired. From what I've gathered, her and her master were rather close. Too close as far as his wife was concerned. She grew jealous and accused them of having an affair behind her back. She demanded that my mother be released of her services or she would leave, destroying his standing in the process. His wife spread the word to other noblemares not to hire her, unless they didn’t care if their husbands were unfaithful.

***

Typhoon shook his head. “Sorry to hear that. It sucks when lies are spread around like that.”

“To be honest, I can’t say it’s a lie. Like I said, mother and him were close. I never actually asked her directly if the accusations were true, as it was none of my business,” said Spic, before continuing her story.

***

The day everything changed went as most did in the beginning. I kept myself busy by walking around the rich districts of Canterlot, watching the noblemares and window shopping. I fantasized about wearing the flowing gowns they did, and tried my best to have the same aura of nobility. Regardless of my station in life, it didn't mean that I couldn't carry myself with class and dignity.

Unfortunately, I was smacked in the face by reality once I went back home, to the little apartment my family lived in. I sighed and walked into the bedroom that my sister and I shared. I buried myself in the fantasy book as a means of escape. One that was abruptly ended when Span walked in and started poking at me. I don't rightly remember what I said in response, though I'm sure it was an insult of some sort. What Span said next though got me to turn away from my novel.

“Fine, I'll eat this by myself then.”

I immediately jumped out of bed at the mention of food, and saw her holding five or six apples. “Sister!? Where in Equestria did you get those?”

“Promise not to go blabbing to mom?” she asked, taking a step back.

“Fine, you have my word. Now just tell me.”

“I struck up a conversation with this apple merchant. Batted my eyes, talked up how handsome he was, then when he wasn't looking-”

“Wait... please, please tell me you didn't.”

“Sis, I'm sick of this. I'm sick of us never having enough food. I'm sick of seeing mom starve herself just because that witch ruined her reputation.”

I listened in shock. This wasn't like my sister at all. She’s carefree, didn't hold grudges, and almost always seemed to let whatever the world threw at her roll off her back. In that moment though, she was so bitter. I saw the hate in her eyes, and felt it in her voice.

“And I don't want to just sit around hoping for some noble to take pity and give mom a crappy job. Sis, don't look at me like that. I'm not some common thief. I'm not stealing from poor looking shops and I'm not stealing stuff for money. I'm just taking what I need to survive.”

“It's still stealing. What if you get caught?”

Sister grinned at that line. The look she gave seemed to say, just what I wanted to hear. “You know sis, it'll be easier with two ponies working together.”

“I will not.”

She held out an apple. The light reflected off its skin, and my stomach growled, reminding me that I had not eaten breakfast yet. The dinner I had the night before wasn't particularly filling either. “You can't say you aren't just as tired of this as I am. Come on sis.”

My stomach growled again. The scent of the apple begged me to come closer. “J-just what we need, and no more. Right?”

“Right.”

It is not something that I'm proud of, but I took the apple and bit into it. It was one of the crispiest, juiciest apples I have ever eaten. I had almost forgotten what a fresh one tasted like. From then on, I would go out and help my sister steal food. She was a mare of her word, we only ever took just enough for us to get by. The plan was simple but worked like a charm. My sister, being the flirt that she is, kept the merchant busy. Meanwhile, I would snatch a few things from the corner of his display, out of sight.

For the most part, I felt no guilt for doing it. Like Span said, we were just doing what we had to. That's what I believed at the time, anyways. Now, I'm not so sure, but I'm not sorry I did it. We did run into one snag when mother caught us coming into the house with food. We should have expected that to eventually happen but we didn't think that far ahead. “Where did you two get those?”

“I... er, well...” I stammered. Luckily for me, Span is good at coming up with stories on the spot.

“Mom, I know you aren't going to like this, but me and Spic did a bit of panhandling. It's just that, we really wanted to help you.” I placed everything that we had stolen that morning on the kitchen table. It was just a few heads of lettuce and a bunch of berries. Span kept talking, “You're not mad are you?” Stealing was one thing, but lying to our mother? That, to me, was crossing a whole new line. One that I really disliked.

Mother sighed and shook her head. I didn't realize it then, but I'm sure the thought of her daughters having to beg for food and bits must have hurt her badly. I can't imagine how heartbroken she would have been if she knew the truth. “We have enough for you tonight, so you don't have to skip dinner,” I added. The guilt I felt at that moment was assuaged when I saw mother getting to eat something fresh again.

The next problem came when my sister and I had a falling out. I can still remember that day in great detail. I was at our meeting place, scoping out our next target in the market. I waited for her for what felt like hours, just sitting there and tapping my hoof against the pavement. “This is ridiculous.” I got up and searched her out, eventually finding her hitting on the wrong target. The stallion running the cart was quite handsome, I'll admit, and it was obvious that she wasn't doing this for us. She was merely looking to have a fun time with him.

I couldn't believe it! She knew better than this! There I had been, sitting around waiting for her, and she was just trying to get laid! She had made this mistake before but it never took her this long to end the conversation and come find me. I stomped over there, seething. “Excuse me, but I need to have a word with my sister,” the words came out with a growl. She protested but I wasn't having any excuses. I dragged her away until I found a deserted alley, where I didn't have to worry about anypony overhearing us. “What is wrong with you?! You know we had stuff to do.”

“Geez, sorry. I must have lost track of time. We still have plenty of time before the stalls close though.”

“This is just like you. Blowing off any responsibility just to jump at some guy.” Yes, I know I was being too harsh, but her flirty nature had rubbed me the wrong way once too often. “You need to start thinking with your brain instead of your vagina. If you get too close to the merchants, they'll get to talking and might realize wait we've doing. Do you not understand that?”

“Great, here we go with the lecturing. Sis, you need to loosen up.”

“Loosen up nothing. You need take this seriously.”

Sister stepped forward, getting into my face as she spoke, “Well sorry for having a bit of fun once in awhile and not walking around like some wannabe noblemare. Sis, you can try to put on this high class act, trying to talk like them and behave like them all you want, but the truth is, you're just a poor thief.”

“Just a... just a... how dare you! I will not apologize for acting like I have a touch of class instead of some harlot.”

“H-harlot! Well fine. If that’s how you feel,” She turned away. I saw tears in her eyes, and I’m sure calling her that cut deep. “Good luck getting your own food.” And with that, she stormed off.

But I didn't need her. If anything, I could do better on my own. Ha! I was a right idiot at the time. Too prideful for my own good. The right thing to do would have been to patch things up with my sister and continued as we had been doing. Instead, I tried to not only steal some food on my own, I tried to one up her.

I went back to the market and saw a cart with cakes being pulled by an armored unicorn. The last time I had cake before this was for my fifth birthday many years before. He stopped by one of the stalls, a donut one I think, and talked to the merchant, giving me the perfect opportunity. It was far too tempting of an offer to turn down. Keep my body low to the pavement, and following groups of shoppers, I drew closer. I steadied myself when I was right beside it, then grabbed the nearest cake, some type with vanilla frosting, and ran. You know what happened next? I didn't even make it two steps before his magic pulled my hooves out from under me and took away my prize.

Maybe he turned around at just the right moment or perhaps he had the cart enchanted. I'll never know and it's no longer important. I hung upside down and stared into the unicorn's glare. I probably don't have to say this, but that's very intimidating. “I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry.”

“Do you have any idea what you just tried to do?”

“N-no?”

He pulled me closer. “These are for her highness, Princess Celestia. You just tried to steal from her highness.”

My breath was forced out as if I had just been bucked in the gut. I trembled and begged for him to let me go. “Please! I swear I shall never try this again, but please let me go.” Stealing from the princess? That was a guarantee that you'd end up the dungeon.

“'Fraid I can't do that miss.” He sat me down and I felt his magic wrap around my neck, insuring that I couldn't run. He turned back to the merchant, “Sorry Joe, but duty calls.”

We walked to the palace in silence. The whole time, I kept my head down, chastising myself and coming up with wild ideas of what the princess might do to me: hard labor, lifetime banishment, or perhaps being changed into a rat. Oh I know now that Princess Celestia would never do such a thing, but well, I was young and scared. I dare say I didn’t have any of my senses intact at all at that moment.

I stood outside throne room as my captor spoke to the guards within. They ushered my inside and forced me to stand before Celestia. She was far larger up close than I imagined. I followed through with my first instinct and bowed down as I begged for mercy. Tears roll down my cheeks. What happened next was quite unexpected. I felt her magic brush away my tears. Unlike the magic of guard, her's was warm and, forgive the rather cliché simile, felt like the same warmth as the light of the sun.

“There is no need for tears, little one,” she said. Her voice melted away my fear. “As I understand it, you attempted to steal one of my cakes. Know this, I do not hold personal grudges. However, I cannot allow theft, especially not here in the capital.” She looked me over, appraising me. “Tell me, why would a young mare resort to petty theft?”

I'm not sure why, but I started telling her everything: how and why mother was fired, the talk with my sister, and what we ended up doing.

“So, you say that you felt as though you had no other choice?”

“Y-yes your majesty.” She closed her eyes and I could tell that she was thinking something over. I waited with baited breath for her next response.

“Very well then, I shall give you another option. You shall become a servant here at the palace. I believe I already know a good position.”

“Servant at the palace?” I repeated her in shock.

“Correct. As such, you'll be given one meal a day and the bits needed to pay for any more food you require.”

“Your majesty, I know I'm in no position to make requests, but there is something I must ask.” I must have been out of my mind to ask for more than the mercy she was already showing me, and yet, it paid off. “As I said, my sister is, or rather was, in the same position as I. If at all possible, could she be granted a job here at the palace too? Together, we'd be sure to be able to take care of each other and mother.”

She smiled at the request. I swear, it's almost like she was proud of me for thinking of my sister at that moment. “I think something can be arranged. I shall send for her. In the mean time, you may wait at the palace entrance for her arrival. I need to discuss something with another pony in privacy.”

“Yes, your majesty.” I gave her one more bow before being escorted out.

After waiting at the palace entrance for awhile, I saw a guard walking up with my sister in tow. She looked worried. The moment our eyes met, she sprinted up to me and pulled me into a hug. “Sister? What exactly did the guard tell you?”

“Only that you stood trial before Princess Celestia and that she requested my presence.” She nuzzled me. “This is all my fault. I shouldn't have walked away, I should have been there to-”

I pressed my hoof against her muzzle, stopping her from saying anymore. “Sister, I am fine. Better than fine, actually. I got us both jobs, ones that come with a free meal.”

“But... how?”

I shot her a grin. “Do you think yourself as the only one of us with a smooth tongue?” I took my opportunity to impress my sister. It was childish but it seemed to properly break the ice between us.

“Sis, I'll never doubt you again.”

There was one last thing I needed to do. “Um, hey, Span? I’m really sorry about calling you a harlot.”

Span looked away from me. “You aren’t the first pony to call my that you know. Mom’s reputation only makes it worse.”

“I know. And I was just as wrong as they are.”

Span waved it off, though I could tell it was still bothering her a little. “It’s fine. I said stupid things too. We’re even.”

Both of us were brought into the throne room, where Celestia sat talking to a young looking, pink alicorn. My jaw hit the floor, or came very close. I did not think there were other alicorns in existence, but here was one standing before me, one that appeared to be the same age as me.

“Auntie, I'm not comfortable ordering around other ponies,” said pink alicorn.

“Cadance, someday you'll be overseeing many ponies and I'm curious to see just how ready you are. Consider these two as a test,” replied Princess Celestia. Her voice made it abundantly clear that this wasn't just a suggestion. “Ah, your new maids are here.”

Cadance, as Princess Celestia referred to her, looked back and stared at us, looking almost as surprised as I felt. I quickly bowed, and Span was smart enough to follow my example. “We are at your service, mistress.” I swore that I wouldn't make Princess Celestia regret giving me and my sister this chance. I would serve my mistress in a way that would make her proud to have me.

“Um... hi?” Cadance sheepishly waved while rubbing the back of her mane. “Auntie, what do I do with them?”

“Well, for starters, you can have them clean your room. Shining is coming over soon, is he not?”

“O-oh! Yes! Maids, clean my room.”

Span and I waited in silence for a moment, and I saw the growing nervousness in Cadance. “Um, mistress, we need to be shown where you room is.”

“O-of course!” She flew over us and landed in the doorway. “Right this way.”

***

Spic had been staring into the sky while telling her story, watching it grow darker. The first colors of the aurora borealis were beginning to show. “Span and I have served her to the utmost of our abilities ever since.”

The door flew open and out came Span, pulling Spic into an overly tight hug. “Sis! You made a friend!” said Span while nuzzling Spic.

“S-Span! Unhoove me this instant!” Spic struggled against her sister's grip, only getting a drunken laugh from her in response.

“I'm so proud of you.” Span finally released her. “Also, since you actually talked to another pony, you may go home if you want, but don't wait up for me. I found a cute stallion.”

“Hey Span, we're up next,” called out a voice from inside.

“Coming!” Span called back and gave her sister another hug before running back in.

Spic looked over to see Typhoon roll his eyes. “I'd know that voice anywhere, it's Fencer.”

“He's the friend that made you come here, right?”

Typhoon nodded. “And my roommate. He's going to end up coming back to our room drunk, with a girl – probably your sister – and be loud as tartarus, I just know it.”

Spic couldn't help but to giggle. “Trust me, I know that feeling. It's happened to me with Span a more than a few time... Hey, want to go for a walk? Maybe we can grab some tea or something. It's better than going home and waiting for them to show up.”

Typhoon smiled. “That sounds nice. Count me in.”

Author's Note

Sorry for the delay. Hope you enjoyed it.