Returnby RiverPonyChaptersChapter 1Chapter 2Chapter 3Chapter 4Chapter 5Chapter 6Chapter 7Chapter 1"Rarity, don't leave me!" Spike begged as he held the old pony's hoof. Rarity's grey hair glistened in the morning light. "Oh, Spike, don't be silly. I'll never truly leave you when you love me! But that isn't an excuse to sit and mourn! You have your life to experience! I love you, Spikey!" Rarity crooned as she managed to pull her wrinkled face into a smile. "But, Rarity, I love you, I can't live without you!" Spike moaned as tears escaped his bright green eyes. Rarity just smiled and turned her head for a moment to look out of the window. A lark was flying up in song and to Rarity it seemed to show a sign of a new beginning, one away from her beloved. that was when Rarity began to cry. "Don't worry, Spike; we'll see each other again! Never forget that we'll see each other again!" Rarity ordered, a spark of life returning to her aged eyes. Spike smiled at her and nodded. "My brave dragon, I love you." Rarity whispered and stroked the dragon's face with her hoof. Her fur was matted and had worn away in places and her skin beneath it was wrinkled. But her eyes twinkled with beauty, always. Spike could only nod; for words had left him. "Goodbye, Spike, my darling." Rarity gasped, before falling back and sighing one last time. The old pony had lived for so long, many believed it was her love for Spike that had kept her alive all these years. Spike watched her eyes fall shut, gracefully. Rarity still had a smile on her lips. That smile gave Spike courage. Courage to not forget his love and what she stood for. Many ponies thought it was ironic that Greed and Generosity fell in love. But Rarity had always laughed whenever anypony mentioned it and instead insisted it was romantic. As Rarity let out her last breath the whole world seemed to stop for a second and wait. Water stopped rushing in the rivers, the wind stopped blowing and Princess Celestia and Princess Luna both looked down in respect. Then, all at once, birds burst into song and everything began anew. Except for Spike. He still gripped her hoof, as if letting go meant she would fade into nothing. Tears were now flooding from his eyes as he sobbed. "Rarity, my Rarity." he sniffed as he looked at her face. She was still beautiful to him, even though life had fled her. The lark which signaled a new start now seemed to mock him. "She's not coming back." he despaired. The sun rose steadily behind him as the beams cut through the window. It spread warmth on his back and he turned towards the light. "I will remember your light, Rarity." he whispered to the air. There was a sound of flapping wings and then silence. Spike listened to the silence and waited. "Spike?" asked a hesitant voice at the door. "Yes, Twilight, it is fine, you can come in." Spike told her, he was still crying. Twilight opened the door with a creak. Her wings were folded against her body and she was crying too. Her eyes rested on Rarity for a moment, sadly, before focusing on Spike. "Oh Spike! At least she rested peacefully." Twilight said with a small smile that was tinged with sadness and loss. She couldn't bring herself to say 'die'. Rarity was the last of her friends to die and, although she still had the Princesses and Spike, she felt alone. "Spike, we understand if you need a minute, but Celestia and Luna are about to make the speech. And I think you'll want to hear it." Twilight informed him softly. She knew that Rarity had meant everything to Spike. To her surprise, Spike stood up and walked from the room. Twilight followed him, painfully aware of how much he was crying. Spike stopped walking when he came to a small balcony. There was a clear view of the Princesses and they were close enough to hear what was being said. "Ponies, dragons, magical beings. It is to our great sadness that we say goodbye to one of Equestria's bravest heroes, today. Rarity was a beautiful pony, with an even more beautiful soul and spirit. She will greatly missed here and we must never forget her memory. Her light will always shine over Equestria and I know she will protect us, always. She was the most generous pony I have ever known. We must all remember her. Remember Rarity." Princess Celestia announced. Everypony could hear the tone of sadness in her voice. Rarity had been such a happy part of the world for so long. Everything seemed cold. Spike was still crying and would not stop. Twilight looked at him in concern and pulled him into a hug. The sun beamed down on the world and suddenly it felt warmer to all below. Even Celestia felt it. Princess Luna and Celestia were in the Royal Study when they felt it. "Sister, what was that?" Luna asked in alarm. "I do not know. But it is something good, for the world is warmer again." The lark flew up once more and its melodic call rang though the city. Chapter 2A soft wave of mist rolled along the cold ground. Rain from the previous night still shone on the cobbled street. The sky was still fairly dark as the sun hadn't fully risen. Nopony was outside yet. The houses of this part of the city were far more rundown than the rest of the city. This part was sprawled with alleys and small streets where children would dodge out of in the mornings. But today seemed too cold for them to be out. Spike sat across the street on a wonky bench. He had been walking all night and only just stopped. Since Rarity died he had been doing that a lot. It had been four long years without her. Twilight and Luna had really helped him though it. Their advice was to remember the goodness and charm of Rarity and to know that he will see her again. Like Rarity had told him, we'll meet again. Spike sighed and looked at the ground. The sun was rising higher and the ground glistened like gems. Gems. Rarity. A tear leaked from Spike's eye slowly. A chirping song made Spike look up in confusion. A lark? There were no larks on this side of the city. Was this one lost? It carried on singing as it flew up. Spike followed it with his eyes as it flew over one of the cracking houses. At the exact point he lost sight of the lark, the door of the house opened and a small figure stepped out. Spike looked at the cloaked figure with interest. He could see the breath rush out from under the cloak, proving how cold the morning was. "Cloud!" piped an enchanting little voice. The little filly called up to the neighboring house. "Rarity! Wait a minute!" called a pale blue filly from the window of the house. Spike's heart jumped at the name Rarity. He studied the cloaked filly even more now. He knew she wouldn't be as beautiful as his Rarity but he must know if she suited the name at all. The door of the house opened and the little pale blue filly leapt out. "Come on, Cloud! You'll never believe what I found in that adorable boutique yesterday!" the filly called Rarity called excitedly. Spike had to admit that she sounded like Spike imagined Rarity sounded like when she was young. "Rarity, will you wait a minute? I want to have a race!" Cloud ordered. The cloaked filly stamped her hoof impatiently. Cloud looked at her friend determinedly. "Of course, darling." the cloaked filly said. She removed her cloak in a swift movement and Spike's eyes widened. Purple hair bounced out and fell in a soft curl over a pristine white fur. Even from where he was sat, Spike could see the beautiful blue eyes. It was Rarity. Spike watched with his mouth open as 'Rarity' had a race with her friend. Cloud won but Rarity didn't seem to mind. They then began to walk off. Spike was just frozen in place. He knew it must just be a filly that looked like Rarity; it couldn't actually be her. It was impossible. Spike stood up and walked after the fillies. He spotted them stood outside a small boutique. Cloud looked bored, whereas 'Rarity's' eyes were lit up in wonder. And Spike knew what she was looking at. Rarity's old Grand Galloping Gala dress was displayed in the boutique window. *** "See, Cloud? It is the dress that I drew! The one I saw in my dream! It sounds far-fetched but I just feel like it was made for me! I'm going to go in and ask about it!" little Rarity said. "But, Rarity, you won't be able to buy it!" Cloud reminded her. Rarity chuckled softly. "I'm not going to buy it! I just want to know who designed it!" little Rarity told her friend. She entered the little shop. At the desk sat a pony with pink and purple hair. "Welcome to the Boutique of Finesse!" said the desk clerk. "Hello! I want to know about that dress in the window! Did you make it?" Rarity asked with a smile. The other pony laughed. "No, it was made by my Auntie. My mother knows more about it, I'll bring her out. Wait here, please!" said the older pony. She then went into another room and left Rarity to look around. She returned with another mare. They had the same hair but the older pony's was heavily streaked with grey. And she looked frail and shaking. "Welcome to the- gasp." said the older pony when she saw Rarity. Rarity turned in alarm and looked at her. "W-welcome to the Boutique of finesse. My name is Sweetie Belle. How can I help you today?" Sweetie Belle asked, her eyes wide. Rarity smiled at her, concerned at why she was so shocked. "Erm, I just want to know more about that dress in the window. You see, I think I dreamt about it and I just wanted to know who designed it." Rarity answered, her small voice was faltering. "Oh, well, my Sister designed and made it. She wore it for the Grand Galloping Gala one year. Her name was Rarity, perhaps you've heard of her?" Sweetie Belle asked. She watched the young filly's face intently. The shock was clearly shown on Rarity's face. Her namesake had designed the dress from her dreams? "Of course I've heard of her! The element of generosity! I was born the day she died and my parents named me after her because I looked like her too." Rarity said. She was a great believer in fate and she thought it was slightly alarming that the Rarity had worn that dress. "So your name is Rarity too?" Sweetie Belle asked. Sweetie Belle seemed just as shocked as Rarity was. "Yes it is. I- I think that I should, perhaps, leave now." Rarity stammered and backed out of the shop. Her heart was pounding. That had to be a coincidence! "Rarity are you alright?" Cloud asked her shell-shocked friend. Rarity shook her head and tried to calm herself. She turned to see a dragon watching her from across the street. Rarity stared at him. She noticed the beautiful colour his scales were and how they glistened. She averted her eyes as she felt a pang of remembrance. Her heart was pounding even more now. She had never seen a dragon before so how could she remember one? "Rarity? RARITY?" Cloud yelled at her. "Cloud. I'm sorry, I think it would be best if I returned home." Rarity said in little more than a whisper. "That's fine Rarity, you look paler than usual. Maybe you can design more of the costumes for the school play!" Cloud suggested. Rarity simply nodded as her friend practically dragged her home. Rarity looked around one last time and saw the dragon who had the most enchantingly green eyes. They seemed to burn an image into her brain and even after she looked away she could see them. Chapter 3Rarity had almost forgotten about that day. It was a few years later and Rarity had gained her cutiemark as well as a job as a seamstress. It was a cold spring morning and Rarity woke up freezing. She leapt up and over to her window. It was raining. Rarity sighed in annoyance. She slouched over to her dressing table and then she remembered that Ladies do not slouch! She stood up straight and walked back over to the window so she could try again. She gracefully walked over to her dressing table where she carefully combed and styled her mane. She was known at school for her sense of style. She no longer lived next door to Cloud; when she discovered her talent for finding gems she managed to get enough money for her family to move up town. Rarity liked finding gems but it was getting harder and harder to leave the city because of the weather. It had been raining almost all year and last year. The ponies were getting depressed at the lack of sunlight. Celestia was doing her job perfectly but the pegasi were struggling to keep Canterlot cloud-free. Rarity had heard rumours that the pegasi were going on strikes. Rarity thought she was quite updated on politics, however she had no idea why the pegasi were going on strikes. Perhaps not enough free time? Sighing again, Rarity applied her false eyelashes- the only makeup she used. She was thankful it was a Saturday but was annoyed at the fact that she still had to go into work. When she went downstairs she found that her parents had already gone out to their weekend jobs. Although Rarity had offered to go out in the rain to find more gems her parents refused to let their daughter pay by hunting gems. Rarity insisted that she didn't mind going, in fact, she was happy to go. She poured herself some cereal and quickly ate it; she would be late for work if she dawdled. It was raining heavily like always. Rarity took one look at the rain and decided she would get an umbrella. She used her magic to lift it up as she walked on the pavement. She was daydreaming about the past when she saw a child shivering down an alley. She looked at the little pony in pity and no longer cared about her mane. "Excuse me? Would you like this umbrella?" Rarity asked the little unicorn. The unicorn looked up in surprise. "You would give it to me?" he squeaked. Rarity was appalled at the question. "Of course! You need it more than I do!" Rarity said and passed it over to him. He thanked her and she smiled. Her mane was now flat and dripping but she couldn't care less. She was filled with elation at being able to help someone. But she knew it wasn't enough to just help one person. She was then struck by an idea. She happily walked to the boutique she worked in. "Hello, Rarity, darling. OH MY GOODNESS! You must be freezing! Come in quickly so I can dry you off!" exclaimed her workmate, Thimble. Thimble used her magic to dry Rarity. "Thank you!" Rarity said. Thimble passed her a comb but Rarity refused; her messy hair would serve as a reminder to help people. "Thimble? I have thought of a brilliant advertising campaign!" Rarity told Thimble of her plan to distribute free umbrellas to those in need. They would have the Boutique's logo and colours. They would be cheap to make but Rarity would put an strengthening spell on them. They would help ponies stay out of hospital from fevers and colds. It was perfect. "That is a brilliant idea, but how will we pay for it. We need a sponsor! Perhaps a royal sponsor. I know Princess Celestia and Luna will support it. We just need to speak to them!" Thimble said. Rarity bit her lip. "But they have so many people needing to speak to them nowadays. Our plight will never be heard!" Rarity moaned. "Well, we won't know until we try!" Thimble said and lifted a pen with her magic and began to write neatly. Rarity read the letter over her shoulder and was impressed. Thimble then signed it and asked Rarity to sign it too. Rarity signed it with her curly script. Thimble proceeded to curl it up and sent it on its way with magic. "Well, if we don't hear back in a week, we'll just try again!" Thimble said and they set to work designing dresses. *** Rarity was just about to leave the boutique when a letter materialised in the middle of the room. Thimble's eyes widened in shock. "That can't be a reply already!" Rarity said excitedly. Thimble unrolled it and began to read. As she read she kept letting out squawks and squeaks of thrilled joy. Rarity watched her eagerly. "They want us to come to visit them!" Thimble shouted happily. Rarity's jaw dropped open and she blinked a few times. "W-when?" Rarity stammered, struggling for words. Thimble read the letter again and her mouth opened in shock. "Now!" Thimble replied. And just as she said it, a carriage pulled up outside. Rarity and Thimble raced outside in shock. "Thimble and Rarity?" asked one of the guards pulling the carriage in a gruff voice. The two ponies just nodded. They climbed into the carriage and marveled at the luxurious quality of the material and carvings. They began flying though the air and the unicorns yelped in alarm. Then they settled into it and were both amazed at the view of the city. The carriage landed on a massive landing balcony. Rarity stumbled out as gracefully as she could, whereas Thimble just toppled out. Then the carriage flew off again, leaving them there alone. Rarity turned and walked inside where she was met with the most beautiful sight she'd ever seen. The palace decor was truly spectacular and incredible. It was mostly polished marble and crystal that was carved exquisitely. Rarity was taken aback. "Hello there, Thimble and Rarity? Follow me!" said a guard. The stallion walked quickly and the two mares had to trot to keep up. As Rarity looked around she realised how messy her hair was. She frantically tried to tame it with her magic. Thimble saw and pulled out a comb from the bag she was carrying. Rarity thanked her profusely and attacked her hair. The walls they were passing were so shiny that she could easily see her reflection in them. She was satisfied with her mane and handed Thimble back her comb. "Your hair looks beautiful, Rarity!" Thimble said with a wink, this made Rarity grin. They stopped walking at a humongous set of double doors. The guard opened them for the mares and they both trotted inside quickly. "Welcome!"called a deep melodic voice. Rarity sank into a bow quickly. "Thimble, Rari- Rarity!" greeted Celestia. She stuttered a bit on Rarity's name when she saw her. Rarity's mind was cast back to that almost forgotten day at Sweetie Belle's boutique. And her mind strayed to the dragon, who seemed to appear in her dreams frequently. The look of surprise and disbelief on the Princess's face was clear. "Princess Celestia! You have no idea how grateful we are to you letting us come here." Rarity said politely, trying to smile. She'd seen the Princess before, giving speeches in magazines but she felt she had spoken with her before. She brushed off the thought hastily. "Oh, it was Luna and my pleasure to have such concerned and generous citizens here!" Princess Celestia told them, recovered from her shock. Her sister Luna arrived in a blur of blue. "Oh, I'm terribly sorry, I was just running so late at the meeting!" Luna rambled as she took her place next to her sister. She then looked at the ponies in front of her and her mouth fell open. "Rarity?" Luna gasped. Rarity blinked in shock. "Y-yes?" Rarity stammered. Thimble stared at Rarity like she had two heads. Why did the Princesses both seem to recognise her? "Oh, erm, we would love to hear your idea." Luna said. "Well..." Rarity explained their idea in detail. Luna and Celestia seemed impressed. They looked at each other for a moment and then then turned back to the ponies. "We would love to sponsor your plan! We will give you some money now and then next Thursday you can come back and we'll sort some more things out. You may go now." Princess Celestia said. She passed them a bag, in which, was an envelope with a cheque in. The ponies walked outside in a daze. "Well, that went better and faster than I had expected!" Thimble announced. Rarity nodded. They stayed silent as they walked back through the castle. "OK, Rare, explain why they knew you!" Thimble demanded, she couldn't hold it in anymore. Rarity stared at her for a second. "I have absolutely NO idea!" Rarity almost shouted. They turned a corner and Rarity stopped in her tracks. The dragon was walking up the other end of the corridor. THE dragon. Rarity's pulse quickened and she found herself blushing. The dragon also stopped in his tracks in amazement. Rarity tried to not look at those gorgeous green eyes but she couldn't. They drew her in; she couldn't help it. She was flooded with recognition and another feeling that bubbled up inside her. She would have described it as love if she didn't know any better. She couldn't be in love with this dragon that she had never even spoke to and only seen once before this. Could she? Chapter 4She was there. Right in front of him. Rarity. Spike had convinced himself he had imagined that whole day, years ago. When he had told Twilight about it she had rattled on about how his grief for Rarity was causing him to imagine things. There was no denying it now. She was stood there, as beautiful as the first day he saw her. Her big blue eyes sparkled with recognition as she looked at him. Did she remember him from that day? Her friend looked so ordinary compared to Rarity, she was pulling on Rarity's arm. Rarity had frozen in place and was looking at Spike wide eyed. He couldn't look away from her beauty. "Spike? Could you please slow down?" Twilight snapped as she turned the corner. She was levitating a trail of books that followed her around. She looked at Spike in confusion at why he had stopped moving. She followed where his eyes were looking and gasped. The books fell to the floor with a clatter. "R-Rarity?" Twilight breathed with eyes wide. Rarity broke away from the dragon's mesmerising eyes and looked at Thimble. She was staring at Rarity with her mouth open. "Rare, what's happening?" Thimble hissed under her breath. Rarity was speechless. Why did everyone recognise her? Did she look like her namesake that much? "I don't know. Come on, darling, let's go." Rarity said quietly. She was surprised at Princess Twilight's reaction too. Although, she knew that Twilight and the other Rarity had been good friends. The dragon and Twilight were both still stood there in shock. When Rarity drew closer to them she saw the dragon, who she assumed was called Spike, clearer. He was gorgeous. At this thought, Rarity blushed and looked down as she walked past him. How rude and unladylike of her to stare like that! She felt his eyes on her back until she turned the corner. Her heart rate was erratic and she felt as if she would faint. Thimble kept darting looks at her which Rarity could see out of the corner of her eye. They managed to get to the castle exit and Rarity had never thought she would be so relieved to leave the palace! It was raining still and neither of them had umbrellas. Rarity didn't mind as much as Thimble seemed to. Although Rarity didn't want her mane to be messed up she felt like the cold rain would cool down her blushing cheeks. And her mane wasn't looking it's best anyway. They weren't very far away from the boutique but they were very far away from Rarity's house. "I think I might take the bus home." Rarity remarked when she spied a sheltered bus stop. Thimble nodded and waved goodbye as she carried on walking. Rarity gave a little sigh as she waited for the bus and tried not to think about the strange way the Princesses and that dragon had acted around her. It really seemed like she was a ghost and that they knew her. She decided to look up the element of Generosity bearer when she returned to her house. To her relief the bus stopped for her. She gladly rushed on but was surprised by how many ponies were on the bus too. It was basically packed. Luckily she found a seat and sat down on it heavily. The day had drained her emotions and she felt exhausted suddenly. She looked lazily around at the other ponies. They were all the posh, snobby ponies that lived near the castle. They were all looking down and no one was speaking. Rarity felt slightly out of place, although she was pleased there were no rowdy young ponies- she just wasn't in the mood for their drama. The bus stopped and a grey haired, yellow pony got on. She had her hair in a big pink bow that made her look youthful even though she was obviously fairly old. She had a checked scarf around her neck. The old pony paid for her ticket and thanked the driver in a country accent. The pony turned around and looked for a seat. Rarity's seat was tucked away in the corner but she could see there were no more spare seats. The pony was clearly soaking wet and unsteady on her feet. Rarity waited politely for one of the business ponies who were near the front to give the pony her seat. After a moment Rarity realised they were too snobby to stand for her. Rarity was appalled and immediately squeezed out from her row. "Excuse me, would you like my seat?" Rarity asked politely. The pony smiled as she turned around but her mouth dropped open slightly. Rarity was struck by a feeling of dread; did she 'recognise' her too? "Thank you. How generous of ya!" The older pony said throwing a dirty look to the other ponies. Rarity smiled and stood up for the rest of the journey, happy to help that old pony. Her parents had always told her she was beautiful but Rarity believed that they just said it like every parent did. However, she noticed some stallions dart a look at her. She was still young and wasn't very comfortable with it. The old pony started to talk to her and she was thankful; it gave her an excuse to not just look around. She learnt the pony's name was Apple Bloom and her sister was an element of Harmony-Honesty. Rarity was surprised, you didn't usually run into people who knew the elements of harmony and it support her theory that she did look like the element of generosity. Apple Bloom must have known the original Rarity. "So, because of your sister did you know all the elements of Harmony?" Rarity asked casually. "Yes I knew them all, we were close friends. I even know Twilight, I still see her sometimes." Apple Bloom said as if she was proving a point to the snobs on the bus. Rarity secretly cheered her on, since she grew up in a rougher area she still held a small kind of annoyance at the snobbish and posh. "In fact, you look remarkably like the element of Generosity! What's your name?" Apple Bloom asked with a glint in her eyes. It was if she already knew the answer. "My name is Rarity and I was born on the sad day that my namesake died on. My parents thought that I looked so much like her that I would be named as a tribute to her memory. A few people have commented on it." Rarity replied with a smile. "Ah, that is quite a coincidence!" Apple Bloom stated. She then looked out of the rain stained window. Rarity was reluctant to stop speaking as she wanted to know more. But she decided to let the old pony do what she wanted. With a small squeak of alarm Rarity realised where they were. They were nearly at her stop. She quickly pressed the stop button and the bus had to slow quite rapidly, which was difficult in the rain. Rarity rushed to the front of the bus to apologise to the driver for being so sudden. She made sure she was very polite and the driver seemed to be thankful for the respect. With a last smile at Apple Bloom she left the bus and was immediately met by a spray of rain and wind. Rarity gritted her teeth and struggled to her house. She was dripping by the time she stumbled inside. Her mother and father were waiting for her and they didn't look impressed. "Hello." Rarity said cautiously. "And where have you been?" Her mother asked in a strained voice. Rarity looked at the clock in confusion. When she saw the time her eyes widened. It wasn't just getting dark outside from the rain clouds. Night was almost falling, that would explain why the bus was so full; rush hour. "I'm sorry, I didn't realise it was that late!" Rarity said truthfully. Her mother's mouth was stretched thin and her father's brow was creased. "THIS came for you." Her father snapped and gave her a package. Rarity opened it and found a necklace inside. "We don't go to work everyday so you can squander the money on lavish gifts for yourself!" Her father growled softly. Rarity blinked and looked up. She didn't buy the necklace! "I didn't buy this! I would never do that! And even if I did I could just go and find some gems to pay for it!" Rarity blurted out. She then bit her lip in embarrassment at being so unladylike. Rarity floated the necklace out of the box to examine it. It was a golden collar with a purple diamond gem embedded in it. Apart from the colour the gem was basically her cutie mark. It did look like something she would have bought for herself if she was being selfish with money. Her parent just looked at her skeptically. "Hmmm, I suppose you could pay it off out of your work wages. Try it on." her mother said, enticed with how sparkly the gem was. Rarity smiled faintly and lifted it around her neck. She let out a startled gasp when some kind of energy flowed through her. The gem shone out blindingly. Her parents let out yelps of alarm. "What was that?" Rarity whispered in a small voice. All the lights had gone out in the building. Chapter 5Her parents sat down in stunned silence. "Rarity, dear, what kind of shop did you buy that jewellery from?" Her mother asked her with a smile. Rarity giggled a bit, she was still in shock. "Erm, perhaps there is a letter inside. I will check again." Rarity stated and rummaged through the box. It was completely empty. Rarity bit her lip, what if that necklace had put a dangerous enchantment on her? She should have checked it first! As if sensing their need for an explanation, a letter materialised. Rarity pounced on it at once and hastily opened it, ripping the corner. Her parents stood close together, anxiously as they watched their daughter read. Rarity's eyebrows got closer and closer together the more she read. Finally she looked up and she had her mouth open. Her parents raised their eyebrows in invitation to explain. "I must go to see Princess Twilight, tomorrow at 10 am." Rarity explained. "What else did it say?" her mother asked, disappointing that her normally chatty daughter didn't tell her everything. "Well, you should read it." Rarity replied and thrust the letter into her parents' hands. Dear Rarity, The necklace I have sent to you was not ordinary, as you probably know. It was an Element of Harmony, Generosity to be exact. I put a magical monitor on the necklace to see if you really are the new Element of Generosity as I suspected. That monitor has just informed me that you are indeed the element! Obviously this is a brilliant thing, what an opportunity and gift. As the Element of Magic, it is my job to search for the new Elements and You are the first I have found. But know, with your help I should be able to locate the others much faster. Therefore, I think it is necessary for you to journey down to the castle to meet me. Come to the Southern Gate at 10am and someone will be waiting to bring you in. I do hope that we will become good friends, sincerely, Princess Twilight Rarity's parents finished reading and looked up at their daughter with astonishment plastered across their faces. "Did you have any idea you were an element of harmony?" her father asked. "Well, no. But some odd things happened to me today." Rarity said vaguely. She lay on the sofa dramatically as her parents watched her in shock. "The Princesses seemed to recognise me at the castle and a dr-dragon." Rarity explained, her voice shaking when she thought of the dragon. Her parents exchanged looks. "Do you mean they recognised you... as in your looks or you generous spirit?" her mother asked. Rarity considered this for a moment. The Princesses only seemed to take notice of her when they saw her. "Recognised me... as in my looks." Rarity replied after a moment. Her father chuckled. "See, I knew we named you well, you are almost the splitting image of your namesake!" he said. Rarity gave a small laugh. "Well, we'll just have to have a big dinner to celebrate you being an element!" her mother exclaimed. She clapped her hooves together in delight. *** "Twilight? Are you alright?" Spike asked. Twilight turned around to face him and saw she'd been crying. "No, it's Rarity! It really is. I'm sorry I didn't believe you, years ago." Twilight apologised, unable to meet his eyes. Spike smiled at her, trying to cheer her up. "It's fine, Twilight, really. This can't be Rarity, my Rarity." Spike told her. Twilight raised a sceptical eyebrow. "Oh, really, I could have sworn I saw you staring at her with that love-struck look dreamy expression. Just like the first time you ever saw her." Twilight teased with a grin. Spike smiled secretly; he knew he could cheer her up. "Oh yeah? Well, this time I wasn't the only one staring. Rarity couldn't keep her eyes off me." Spike said, sticking out his chest whilst trying not to laugh. "Well, you can see her tomorrow, it turns out she is the Element of Generosity like I thought." Twilight said, her mood becoming more solemn again. Spike's mouth dropped open. "She's the element of Generosity? Twilight, is it really... her?" Spike asked. Twilight knew what he meant. He meant: did Rarity return to life again, reincarnated? Did she have the original Rarity's memories? "I really don't know, Spike." Twilight said, turning to look out at the glowing moon in the sky. Twilight had only acted as Princess Celestia and Luna had suggested. She just hoped that Rarity hadn't been too freaked out to come back here. Although, if Spike was right, maybe she would want to see a certain dragon again. She heard the door of the study close with a snap as Spike left the room. Twilight was suddenly struck by a thought. She darted over to her desk and pulled out the full map of Equestria. "Hmm, I wonder..." Twilight mused aloud. She turned around and let out a startled shriek. "Twilight! Are you well?" Princess Luna asked. Luna flew into the room through the open balcony door and Twilight hadn't noticed. "I received your letter. This Rarity is the Element of Generosity, also?" Luna inquired. Twilight nodded with her hoof clutched to her rapidly beating heart. "Wow, Princess, you really scared me then." Twilight said after recovering. "I am sorry, Twilight. My sister will join us soon and you can explain the situation with both of us here." Luna said simply. The Princess of the night then elegantly walked over to a cushioned armchair and sank into it. Then Luna let out a huge yawn. "I apologise for being rude and yawning that way, Twilight Sparkle. However, the rainy days are taking their toll on my emotions." Luna said with a sigh. Twilight nodded sympathetically. Nothing could be done about the rain with magic of pegasi. The pegasi were not on strike like the public thought. The weather and sky had been made this way ever since Rarity, the original, had died. It was because all the elements had passed on that the weather had dimmed. Obviously the new Rarity being alive meant that perhaps the others were too. And that could be why they still had certain days of sunshine because of the light they bring to the world. If they re-unite the other elements with their necklaces then the normal weather would be restored. In fact, looking out of the window, Twilight could tell some of the cloud had lifted since Rarity got her necklace. This realisation filled Twilight with hope. Not only her, but hope for Spike. Spike, who had thought he was damned to a practically immortal life without the love he had promised to love forever. Rarity being alive again meant he wouldn't be so lonely. Twilight smiled down at the map of Equestria on the desk and looked up as Celestia entered the room. "Twilight, she is the element?" Princess Celestia asked simply. Twilight nodded in reply and Luna stood up from her seat. "And you have invited her here?" Celestia said, as much a question as a note to herself. Again, Twilight nodded. "She will undoubtedly help us to find the other elements. I just hope she isn't too scared and confused by what we have to tell her." Princess Luna said with a sigh. "Well, I don't know if telling her everything would help anyone. We could just tell her enough, and then she won't get scared and she will be happier." Twilight considered. Luna's lip thinned at the thought of holding back the truth. "I trust that you understand your friend better than we would, perhaps you are correct in that idea." Princess Celestia pondered. Luna looked at her sister in surprise. "But- shouldn't she be allowed to know the truth?" Luna asked, perplexed. "Not if it would hurt her more than ignorance would." Princess Celestia replied with a sad smile. "And what about Spike?" Luna asked Twilight. "He's just happy to see her again. And this time Rarity seemed just as love-struck as him." Twilight said with a smile. The princesses all smiled and discussed what had to be done. Celestia had to leave to raise the sun and Twilight watched a song lark fly past the window in the dawn light. The lark flew to the east, in the direction of Manehatten. Twilight smiled at the old memories she had made in that city with Rarity. Now she just might be able to make more with her friend. Chapter 6Rarity stared at her reflection in the mirror. She hadn't been completely prepared for her visit to the Princesses last time. And even though she knew she was going there now, she still wasn't prepared. The words 'element of harmony' kept flying through her head. What would everyone at school say when they heard about it? It would completely change her life, surely. She would have more duties, she would be recognised and watched. Rarity's initial reaction was to put on a brave face and make sure she looked her best. If she was going to be the Element of Generosity she might as well look fabulous doing it. The rain was pattering dismally against the window pane and Rarity stared out at it. She should be excited. But all she felt was fear and anxiousness. It was all too shocking and she could hardly believe it. She was up most of the night because she was so nervous. She was nervous she wouldn't live up to expectation. Rarity gave a small sigh, before leaving her bedroom. She had already eaten breakfast so all she needed was to pack her bag. Just as she was buttoning it up, the doorbell rang. Rarity frowned and looked at the clock that was sat on the mantlepiece. She had received no message that she would be collected, and it was too early anyway. Rarity opened the door and looked at who it was. "Rarity! Hi, wow, you look even prettier than you normally do! We're only going to help at the shelter, not a spa!" Cloud remarked with a short laugh. Rarity immediately reddened in embarrassment and horror. She was going to the shelter with Cloud! She had forgotten in the rush and shock of everything. "You're ready on time for once! That's good, because I need to ask a small favour of you. Rarity, I really need to go to this job interview. It is the one I was telling you about! You know, 'the chance of a lifetime'! I'll be back at lunch but could you go by yourself, at first. You know I wouldn't ask this of you, but it is so important!" Cloud rambled. Rarity immediately nodded and assured her it would be fine. Her generous nature had taken over before she had thought about it. "Great! I'll be back at lunch!" Cloud called and then trotted off. Rarity stayed still for a moment to collect her thoughts. It would seem as if she would either have to cancel the work with the shelter, or cancel with the princess. Rarity bit her lip as she made up her mind, resolutely. Grabbing a pencil and paper she scrawled out a message and sent it. Rarity breathed out in relief and began trotting to her destination. *** The letter arrived at Twilight's desk in a flurry of blue magic. The letter had obviously been written in haste. Dear Princess Twilight, I do apologise at the terribly last minute change of plans I will have to force upon you. I'm afraid I will not be able to visit you today, because I have a social matter that I must attend. I hope we can reschedule because I am aware of how important this could be. I would have come today but I already promised a friend. My sincerest apologies (it is very rude and I hope a Princess is not accustomed to such things) Rarity Twilight read the letter and then looked at it with wide eyes. Spike would be disappointed at not seeing her. And what was this pressing social occasion? She sat for a minute and tapped on hoof on the ground. But then she couldn't hold it any longer and she rushed to the shelves of books in the room. Her magic surrounded one of the books and it flung out and floated by Twilight's head. It flew opened to a page and Twilight read the text as if her life depended on it. A colourful glow surrounded her horn as it blared into life. There was a bright white light and then it subsided to a milky glow. A mirror-like object had appeared in front of Twilight. Then, as if someone had adjusted a dial, the glow transformed into a clear picture of Rarity walking determinedly in the rain. Twilight watched the white unicorn turn down a rough-looking street and then into an alley. Twilight cocked her head and wondered what an upper-class pony like Rarity was doing in the slum-like side of town. Rarity turned into a shabby looking building with a peeling green sign above it. But Rarity moved too fast for Twilight to see what the sign read. Rarity made her way past countless plastic chairs and tables and trotted into another room. Her blue magic tugged a green plastic apron around herself and tucked her perfectly styled hair into a turquoise hairnet. Twilight watched in fascination and curiosity as she watched Rarity enter back into the room with the tables. Twilight wondered what Rarity was doing wearing that; she looked like a dinner lady. When Rarity moved over to a small kitchen area, Twilight was even more surprised. Then Twilight noticed the others that were in the room, they looked like tramps and it was clear they were homeless. One particularly filthy one walked over to Rarity with shuffling steps. Twilight expected Rarity to flinch back from the dirt but instead Rarity beamed at him. "Hello, Ted, how are you this week?" Rarity's elegant voice asked. Ted smiled slightly, revealing rotting teeth. But his face looked friendly and encouraging. "Same as always, Rare, better when you and Cloud are here with us." Ted answered in a gruff voice. Rarity's face fell a little. "I'm sorry, Ted, but Cloud isn't here today. She had an important interview so I'll be taking her shift as well, until lunch." Rarity said with her smile back on her face. Ted's expression changed slightly into one of annoyance. He looked at Rarity for a moment and Rarity dropped her eyes, she seemed to be ashamed. "Rare, how long are you going to let her take advantage of you for? She's a nice girl but she never shows up here if she can help it and leaves you to work everything out! She always has something more important than you. You're a lovely girl, but you have to stick up for yourself more!" Ted told her firmly. "Ted, I do stick up for myself, but I just can't abandon you here. You know if Cloud gets fired no one else will volunteer. This place will be shut down!" Rarity said sadly. Ted sighed and shook his head. "You're too generous for your own good, girl." Ted murmured. Rarity simply smiled in reply and she served him his food. After everyone had been served, Rarity went over to sit by them and talk. When they learnt that Cloud wasn't coming they all rolled their eyes and tutted. They all mentioned how Rarity was so generous. Rarity just thanked them and her cheeks flamed up in embarrassment. They soon moved onto different topics and Twilight was amazed at how easily Rarity slipped into conversation with these people. Rarity began to explain her scheme about the umbrellas. All the homeless people praised her idea and welcomed it. "And how did you get the snooty Princesses to sponsor it? " one person said. Rarity smiled at him. "The Princesses are kind-hearted. You shouldn't listen to rumours that say they don't care about the 'SlumSide'. They want to help here as much as I do. This is one of the ways they are helping!" Rarity told them with a laugh. "And anyway, you should be grateful the 'snooty' Princesses even cared enough to let me see them" "That's just amazing Rarity. You actually met the Princesses? You do too much for us, you know?" a scruffy-looking mare gasped. "No, I don't do enough! There are so many times I have to walk past children suffering and I can give them nothing! It hurts me. If I can't help them then I must keep helping others!" Rarity stated forcefully. "Rarity, most ponies that live uptown have never even set foot here! You do enough, maybe too much!" one said. Everyone shouted their agreement. A bell rang on the wall and Rarity shot up. "Alright, I'm sorry, everyone, you know what that means." Rarity said with a grimace. Everyone stared at her, waiting. "Chocolate pudding!" Rarity sang as she skipped to the kitchen. Everyone in the room cheered as she took the pudding out of the oven. Appreciative murmurs flew across the room as she served out the pudding to everyone. Rarity's tummy rumbled slightly when she smelt the pudding. She smiled and picked up the bowl. Instead of sitting down she walked outside into the rain. There was a small filly curled up on the pavement. Rarity smiled kindly and handed her the bowl. "Are you alright? Would you like to come inside?" Rarity asked the child. The child stared at her in amazement, she then leapt to her frail feet and followed Rarity inside. Twilight felt a small tear run down her face. It was almost impossible how generous Rarity was. She seemed perfect. Absolutely perfect! A small pang of jealousy welled up in Twilight. How could she be so generous, so pretty, and so without problems? A knock on the door of Twilight's study made Twilight Jump and she broke the spell. Spike walked in with a worried frown on his face. "Twilight, Rarity didn't come!" Spike exclaimed. Twilight squeaked. "Oh, I'm so sorry, Spike, Rarity sent me a letter, telling me she couldn't come. I'm sorry I forgot to tell you!" Twilight moaned. Spike just sighed. "It is fine, I was afraid something had happened to her." Spike replied. Twilight smiled at Spike's reaction to the news. Only he couldn't be mad at her for leaving him to stand in the rain for an hour for no reason. Maybe Rarity was just about perfect enough for her little dragon brother. Chapter 7Rarity frowned up at the clock on the wall behind her. Cloud was meant to be there half an hour ago. She had to be at her boutique job in less than an hour and it looked as if the storm outside was getting worse. The little girl Rarity brought into the shelter had gone and fetched some of her friends and family and the shelter was almost overflowing. There was only so much Rarity could do alone, her magic just wasn't strong enough. Her hooves were starting to ache and she could feel parts of her mane were escaping out of the hairnet. She was happy that the people in there were so cheerful and so much like a family. "Rarity? Would you like some help?" asked a little filly. Rarity smiled at her wearily. "I couldn't ask that of you! I-" Rarity began but she was interrupted when Ted stood up and walked over. "Well, It is a good job I didn't ask then!" Ted said with a grin and he immediately started to help. Rarity was touched by their kindness. As they served out the food together she couldn't help but feel slightly resentful that Cloud hadn't returned. But the children's laughter and joy soon made her forget about it. The sky had cleared up remarkably when everyone began to leave. They had all cleaned up after themselves and had been so polite. The same could not be said for some fancy rich customers uptown. Rarity was disgusted by the upper-classes lack of manners and the conceit they had for the poor. Rarity locked up the kitchen of the shelter and began to make her way outside. Because the sky had cleared, the weather had got colder and Rarity gave a small shiver. She walked briskly to her job, looking forward to getting out of the cold. There were more people on the street now because of the weather. The children playing reminded Rarity of how she and Cloud used to play. Thinking of Cloud made her sad and slightly worried. Cloud could have been kidnapped for all Rarity knew, and that could have been why she wasn't helping at the shelter. Rarity grew more and more anxious for her so she decided to call her when she got to the boutique. The little tinkle of the bell over the door made Thimble look up. "Rarity. You're late again." Thimble said in a flat tone. Rarity blinked in surprise at her friend's hostility. "I'm truly sorry Thimble but Cloud-" Rarity was interrupted. "Stop it with the Cloud excuse. I'm sure what you're doing in that shelter is doing good, but I need you here. You do more good to people here! You know that old woman, Victori Call, who comes in here? She came in not so long ago and left again because you weren't here. We're loosing business, Rarity! Have you seen our last income report? It is atrocious!" Thimble ranted. Rarity nodded and listened throughout it all. "But with the umbrella project, our income will go up!" Rarity reminded her. As soon as Rarity mentioned the project, Thimble seemed to pale. "Oh my gosh! The Princesses expect us to finish that first project by Thursday! Forget about finance! We are starting it now!" Thimble exclaimed. Rarity bit back a giggle at her friend's reaction. They set to work without a second thought to the disagreement they had. "Rarity?" Thimble asked softly, after a while of work. Rarity looked up from what she was doing to reply. "Yes, darling?" Rarity prompted. "Why do you let Cloud walk all over you like that? With any other pony I know you would stick up for yourself." Thimble asked. Rarity looked back to her work and didn't reply for a second. When she looked up again she had considered what she was about to say. "Because... I was responsible for her sister's death. Let me explain before you think I'm a murderer. It was several years ago, when I was a filly. Cloud and I were close friends. I still had as much interest for fashion as I do now, so I would drag Cloud along to peer into my favourite shop window. I always used to get hypnotised by the dresses then; I never thought I would be able to wear such beautiful clothes. I used to force Cloud inside so I could ask the owner about materials etc. But on some days the shop owner would let me dress up in a feather boa and gems. One day, Cloud and I were supposed to be taking her little sister to the park but I made them stop on the way so I could daydream about being a princess and wearing big dresses. Cloud was as bored as she usually was but her sister (Lantern) was as impressed as I was. That day, the shop owner let me dress Lantern up too. Something you don't know about me, Thimble, is that I used to live in a rough area. While I was daydreaming a drunk staggered along the road behind us. He had a knife and was waving it around. Cloud shook me and we hid Lantern behind us as he walked into the shop. I was terrified as he pointed the knife at me. He said, 'you spoilt little ponies all think you are sooo important, look at you, a little princess! I'm sure your daddy will buy you more gems to keep you from crying'. The shop owner was stricken and we were cowering away. 'You are so young and think you are the centre of the world. You are so young it is disgusting!' he was ranting and raging, swinging his arms around crazily. As he moved about he spotted Lantern, dressed up in her gems, crying. His face went purple with rage. 'HA! I thought you were too young! You make me sick! You are sick!" he roared and.. and that was when she died... that poor, innocent little girl! And it was my fault; it was my stupid, materialistic dreams that caused her to die." Rarity explained, with tears pouring down her face. Thimble watched her with a open mouth as Rarity told her. "Honey, Rarity, it wasn't your fault!" Thimble tried to console her. "It might not seem like it. But it was. It was my selfishness. I should have listened to Cloud and gone to the park. And that is why I let her 'walk over me' not only because of the pain I caused, but also because I should listen to her. I know she has been using my generosity for a while now... but I enjoy working at the shelter. Of course, I would prefer to not miss any work here too. That is why I think I should have different shifts." Rarity told Thimble. When Rarity mentioned shifts Thimbles' ears perked up. "Different shifts can be arranged, Rarity, as long as you still do the work, which I have no doubt about." Thimble promised with a warm smile. "But, Rarity, you do have to stand up to Cloud." Thimble added as an afterthought. Rarity nodded in agreement; she had put it off for too long anyway. The two ponies quickly grew out of the somber mood and began work again, happily. Thimble was grateful of Rarity's confession, it was obviously not an easy thing to tell. Another thing was worrying Thimble though. Rarity had said she came from a rough area. Thimble was honestly surprised. Rarity's accent, manners and posture were upper class. she must have moved while she was still quite young to have picked it up so definitely. It made sense though, that Rarity lived in the slums. It explained why she was so eager to help others from there. They must remind her how lucky she was to find a way out.
Chapter 1"Rarity, don't leave me!" Spike begged as he held the old pony's hoof. Rarity's grey hair glistened in the morning light. "Oh, Spike, don't be silly. I'll never truly leave you when you love me! But that isn't an excuse to sit and mourn! You have your life to experience! I love you, Spikey!" Rarity crooned as she managed to pull her wrinkled face into a smile. "But, Rarity, I love you, I can't live without you!" Spike moaned as tears escaped his bright green eyes. Rarity just smiled and turned her head for a moment to look out of the window. A lark was flying up in song and to Rarity it seemed to show a sign of a new beginning, one away from her beloved. that was when Rarity began to cry. "Don't worry, Spike; we'll see each other again! Never forget that we'll see each other again!" Rarity ordered, a spark of life returning to her aged eyes. Spike smiled at her and nodded. "My brave dragon, I love you." Rarity whispered and stroked the dragon's face with her hoof. Her fur was matted and had worn away in places and her skin beneath it was wrinkled. But her eyes twinkled with beauty, always. Spike could only nod; for words had left him. "Goodbye, Spike, my darling." Rarity gasped, before falling back and sighing one last time. The old pony had lived for so long, many believed it was her love for Spike that had kept her alive all these years. Spike watched her eyes fall shut, gracefully. Rarity still had a smile on her lips. That smile gave Spike courage. Courage to not forget his love and what she stood for. Many ponies thought it was ironic that Greed and Generosity fell in love. But Rarity had always laughed whenever anypony mentioned it and instead insisted it was romantic. As Rarity let out her last breath the whole world seemed to stop for a second and wait. Water stopped rushing in the rivers, the wind stopped blowing and Princess Celestia and Princess Luna both looked down in respect. Then, all at once, birds burst into song and everything began anew. Except for Spike. He still gripped her hoof, as if letting go meant she would fade into nothing. Tears were now flooding from his eyes as he sobbed. "Rarity, my Rarity." he sniffed as he looked at her face. She was still beautiful to him, even though life had fled her. The lark which signaled a new start now seemed to mock him. "She's not coming back." he despaired. The sun rose steadily behind him as the beams cut through the window. It spread warmth on his back and he turned towards the light. "I will remember your light, Rarity." he whispered to the air. There was a sound of flapping wings and then silence. Spike listened to the silence and waited. "Spike?" asked a hesitant voice at the door. "Yes, Twilight, it is fine, you can come in." Spike told her, he was still crying. Twilight opened the door with a creak. Her wings were folded against her body and she was crying too. Her eyes rested on Rarity for a moment, sadly, before focusing on Spike. "Oh Spike! At least she rested peacefully." Twilight said with a small smile that was tinged with sadness and loss. She couldn't bring herself to say 'die'. Rarity was the last of her friends to die and, although she still had the Princesses and Spike, she felt alone. "Spike, we understand if you need a minute, but Celestia and Luna are about to make the speech. And I think you'll want to hear it." Twilight informed him softly. She knew that Rarity had meant everything to Spike. To her surprise, Spike stood up and walked from the room. Twilight followed him, painfully aware of how much he was crying. Spike stopped walking when he came to a small balcony. There was a clear view of the Princesses and they were close enough to hear what was being said. "Ponies, dragons, magical beings. It is to our great sadness that we say goodbye to one of Equestria's bravest heroes, today. Rarity was a beautiful pony, with an even more beautiful soul and spirit. She will greatly missed here and we must never forget her memory. Her light will always shine over Equestria and I know she will protect us, always. She was the most generous pony I have ever known. We must all remember her. Remember Rarity." Princess Celestia announced. Everypony could hear the tone of sadness in her voice. Rarity had been such a happy part of the world for so long. Everything seemed cold. Spike was still crying and would not stop. Twilight looked at him in concern and pulled him into a hug. The sun beamed down on the world and suddenly it felt warmer to all below. Even Celestia felt it. Princess Luna and Celestia were in the Royal Study when they felt it. "Sister, what was that?" Luna asked in alarm. "I do not know. But it is something good, for the world is warmer again." The lark flew up once more and its melodic call rang though the city.
Chapter 2A soft wave of mist rolled along the cold ground. Rain from the previous night still shone on the cobbled street. The sky was still fairly dark as the sun hadn't fully risen. Nopony was outside yet. The houses of this part of the city were far more rundown than the rest of the city. This part was sprawled with alleys and small streets where children would dodge out of in the mornings. But today seemed too cold for them to be out. Spike sat across the street on a wonky bench. He had been walking all night and only just stopped. Since Rarity died he had been doing that a lot. It had been four long years without her. Twilight and Luna had really helped him though it. Their advice was to remember the goodness and charm of Rarity and to know that he will see her again. Like Rarity had told him, we'll meet again. Spike sighed and looked at the ground. The sun was rising higher and the ground glistened like gems. Gems. Rarity. A tear leaked from Spike's eye slowly. A chirping song made Spike look up in confusion. A lark? There were no larks on this side of the city. Was this one lost? It carried on singing as it flew up. Spike followed it with his eyes as it flew over one of the cracking houses. At the exact point he lost sight of the lark, the door of the house opened and a small figure stepped out. Spike looked at the cloaked figure with interest. He could see the breath rush out from under the cloak, proving how cold the morning was. "Cloud!" piped an enchanting little voice. The little filly called up to the neighboring house. "Rarity! Wait a minute!" called a pale blue filly from the window of the house. Spike's heart jumped at the name Rarity. He studied the cloaked filly even more now. He knew she wouldn't be as beautiful as his Rarity but he must know if she suited the name at all. The door of the house opened and the little pale blue filly leapt out. "Come on, Cloud! You'll never believe what I found in that adorable boutique yesterday!" the filly called Rarity called excitedly. Spike had to admit that she sounded like Spike imagined Rarity sounded like when she was young. "Rarity, will you wait a minute? I want to have a race!" Cloud ordered. The cloaked filly stamped her hoof impatiently. Cloud looked at her friend determinedly. "Of course, darling." the cloaked filly said. She removed her cloak in a swift movement and Spike's eyes widened. Purple hair bounced out and fell in a soft curl over a pristine white fur. Even from where he was sat, Spike could see the beautiful blue eyes. It was Rarity. Spike watched with his mouth open as 'Rarity' had a race with her friend. Cloud won but Rarity didn't seem to mind. They then began to walk off. Spike was just frozen in place. He knew it must just be a filly that looked like Rarity; it couldn't actually be her. It was impossible. Spike stood up and walked after the fillies. He spotted them stood outside a small boutique. Cloud looked bored, whereas 'Rarity's' eyes were lit up in wonder. And Spike knew what she was looking at. Rarity's old Grand Galloping Gala dress was displayed in the boutique window. *** "See, Cloud? It is the dress that I drew! The one I saw in my dream! It sounds far-fetched but I just feel like it was made for me! I'm going to go in and ask about it!" little Rarity said. "But, Rarity, you won't be able to buy it!" Cloud reminded her. Rarity chuckled softly. "I'm not going to buy it! I just want to know who designed it!" little Rarity told her friend. She entered the little shop. At the desk sat a pony with pink and purple hair. "Welcome to the Boutique of Finesse!" said the desk clerk. "Hello! I want to know about that dress in the window! Did you make it?" Rarity asked with a smile. The other pony laughed. "No, it was made by my Auntie. My mother knows more about it, I'll bring her out. Wait here, please!" said the older pony. She then went into another room and left Rarity to look around. She returned with another mare. They had the same hair but the older pony's was heavily streaked with grey. And she looked frail and shaking. "Welcome to the- gasp." said the older pony when she saw Rarity. Rarity turned in alarm and looked at her. "W-welcome to the Boutique of finesse. My name is Sweetie Belle. How can I help you today?" Sweetie Belle asked, her eyes wide. Rarity smiled at her, concerned at why she was so shocked. "Erm, I just want to know more about that dress in the window. You see, I think I dreamt about it and I just wanted to know who designed it." Rarity answered, her small voice was faltering. "Oh, well, my Sister designed and made it. She wore it for the Grand Galloping Gala one year. Her name was Rarity, perhaps you've heard of her?" Sweetie Belle asked. She watched the young filly's face intently. The shock was clearly shown on Rarity's face. Her namesake had designed the dress from her dreams? "Of course I've heard of her! The element of generosity! I was born the day she died and my parents named me after her because I looked like her too." Rarity said. She was a great believer in fate and she thought it was slightly alarming that the Rarity had worn that dress. "So your name is Rarity too?" Sweetie Belle asked. Sweetie Belle seemed just as shocked as Rarity was. "Yes it is. I- I think that I should, perhaps, leave now." Rarity stammered and backed out of the shop. Her heart was pounding. That had to be a coincidence! "Rarity are you alright?" Cloud asked her shell-shocked friend. Rarity shook her head and tried to calm herself. She turned to see a dragon watching her from across the street. Rarity stared at him. She noticed the beautiful colour his scales were and how they glistened. She averted her eyes as she felt a pang of remembrance. Her heart was pounding even more now. She had never seen a dragon before so how could she remember one? "Rarity? RARITY?" Cloud yelled at her. "Cloud. I'm sorry, I think it would be best if I returned home." Rarity said in little more than a whisper. "That's fine Rarity, you look paler than usual. Maybe you can design more of the costumes for the school play!" Cloud suggested. Rarity simply nodded as her friend practically dragged her home. Rarity looked around one last time and saw the dragon who had the most enchantingly green eyes. They seemed to burn an image into her brain and even after she looked away she could see them.
Chapter 3Rarity had almost forgotten about that day. It was a few years later and Rarity had gained her cutiemark as well as a job as a seamstress. It was a cold spring morning and Rarity woke up freezing. She leapt up and over to her window. It was raining. Rarity sighed in annoyance. She slouched over to her dressing table and then she remembered that Ladies do not slouch! She stood up straight and walked back over to the window so she could try again. She gracefully walked over to her dressing table where she carefully combed and styled her mane. She was known at school for her sense of style. She no longer lived next door to Cloud; when she discovered her talent for finding gems she managed to get enough money for her family to move up town. Rarity liked finding gems but it was getting harder and harder to leave the city because of the weather. It had been raining almost all year and last year. The ponies were getting depressed at the lack of sunlight. Celestia was doing her job perfectly but the pegasi were struggling to keep Canterlot cloud-free. Rarity had heard rumours that the pegasi were going on strikes. Rarity thought she was quite updated on politics, however she had no idea why the pegasi were going on strikes. Perhaps not enough free time? Sighing again, Rarity applied her false eyelashes- the only makeup she used. She was thankful it was a Saturday but was annoyed at the fact that she still had to go into work. When she went downstairs she found that her parents had already gone out to their weekend jobs. Although Rarity had offered to go out in the rain to find more gems her parents refused to let their daughter pay by hunting gems. Rarity insisted that she didn't mind going, in fact, she was happy to go. She poured herself some cereal and quickly ate it; she would be late for work if she dawdled. It was raining heavily like always. Rarity took one look at the rain and decided she would get an umbrella. She used her magic to lift it up as she walked on the pavement. She was daydreaming about the past when she saw a child shivering down an alley. She looked at the little pony in pity and no longer cared about her mane. "Excuse me? Would you like this umbrella?" Rarity asked the little unicorn. The unicorn looked up in surprise. "You would give it to me?" he squeaked. Rarity was appalled at the question. "Of course! You need it more than I do!" Rarity said and passed it over to him. He thanked her and she smiled. Her mane was now flat and dripping but she couldn't care less. She was filled with elation at being able to help someone. But she knew it wasn't enough to just help one person. She was then struck by an idea. She happily walked to the boutique she worked in. "Hello, Rarity, darling. OH MY GOODNESS! You must be freezing! Come in quickly so I can dry you off!" exclaimed her workmate, Thimble. Thimble used her magic to dry Rarity. "Thank you!" Rarity said. Thimble passed her a comb but Rarity refused; her messy hair would serve as a reminder to help people. "Thimble? I have thought of a brilliant advertising campaign!" Rarity told Thimble of her plan to distribute free umbrellas to those in need. They would have the Boutique's logo and colours. They would be cheap to make but Rarity would put an strengthening spell on them. They would help ponies stay out of hospital from fevers and colds. It was perfect. "That is a brilliant idea, but how will we pay for it. We need a sponsor! Perhaps a royal sponsor. I know Princess Celestia and Luna will support it. We just need to speak to them!" Thimble said. Rarity bit her lip. "But they have so many people needing to speak to them nowadays. Our plight will never be heard!" Rarity moaned. "Well, we won't know until we try!" Thimble said and lifted a pen with her magic and began to write neatly. Rarity read the letter over her shoulder and was impressed. Thimble then signed it and asked Rarity to sign it too. Rarity signed it with her curly script. Thimble proceeded to curl it up and sent it on its way with magic. "Well, if we don't hear back in a week, we'll just try again!" Thimble said and they set to work designing dresses. *** Rarity was just about to leave the boutique when a letter materialised in the middle of the room. Thimble's eyes widened in shock. "That can't be a reply already!" Rarity said excitedly. Thimble unrolled it and began to read. As she read she kept letting out squawks and squeaks of thrilled joy. Rarity watched her eagerly. "They want us to come to visit them!" Thimble shouted happily. Rarity's jaw dropped open and she blinked a few times. "W-when?" Rarity stammered, struggling for words. Thimble read the letter again and her mouth opened in shock. "Now!" Thimble replied. And just as she said it, a carriage pulled up outside. Rarity and Thimble raced outside in shock. "Thimble and Rarity?" asked one of the guards pulling the carriage in a gruff voice. The two ponies just nodded. They climbed into the carriage and marveled at the luxurious quality of the material and carvings. They began flying though the air and the unicorns yelped in alarm. Then they settled into it and were both amazed at the view of the city. The carriage landed on a massive landing balcony. Rarity stumbled out as gracefully as she could, whereas Thimble just toppled out. Then the carriage flew off again, leaving them there alone. Rarity turned and walked inside where she was met with the most beautiful sight she'd ever seen. The palace decor was truly spectacular and incredible. It was mostly polished marble and crystal that was carved exquisitely. Rarity was taken aback. "Hello there, Thimble and Rarity? Follow me!" said a guard. The stallion walked quickly and the two mares had to trot to keep up. As Rarity looked around she realised how messy her hair was. She frantically tried to tame it with her magic. Thimble saw and pulled out a comb from the bag she was carrying. Rarity thanked her profusely and attacked her hair. The walls they were passing were so shiny that she could easily see her reflection in them. She was satisfied with her mane and handed Thimble back her comb. "Your hair looks beautiful, Rarity!" Thimble said with a wink, this made Rarity grin. They stopped walking at a humongous set of double doors. The guard opened them for the mares and they both trotted inside quickly. "Welcome!"called a deep melodic voice. Rarity sank into a bow quickly. "Thimble, Rari- Rarity!" greeted Celestia. She stuttered a bit on Rarity's name when she saw her. Rarity's mind was cast back to that almost forgotten day at Sweetie Belle's boutique. And her mind strayed to the dragon, who seemed to appear in her dreams frequently. The look of surprise and disbelief on the Princess's face was clear. "Princess Celestia! You have no idea how grateful we are to you letting us come here." Rarity said politely, trying to smile. She'd seen the Princess before, giving speeches in magazines but she felt she had spoken with her before. She brushed off the thought hastily. "Oh, it was Luna and my pleasure to have such concerned and generous citizens here!" Princess Celestia told them, recovered from her shock. Her sister Luna arrived in a blur of blue. "Oh, I'm terribly sorry, I was just running so late at the meeting!" Luna rambled as she took her place next to her sister. She then looked at the ponies in front of her and her mouth fell open. "Rarity?" Luna gasped. Rarity blinked in shock. "Y-yes?" Rarity stammered. Thimble stared at Rarity like she had two heads. Why did the Princesses both seem to recognise her? "Oh, erm, we would love to hear your idea." Luna said. "Well..." Rarity explained their idea in detail. Luna and Celestia seemed impressed. They looked at each other for a moment and then then turned back to the ponies. "We would love to sponsor your plan! We will give you some money now and then next Thursday you can come back and we'll sort some more things out. You may go now." Princess Celestia said. She passed them a bag, in which, was an envelope with a cheque in. The ponies walked outside in a daze. "Well, that went better and faster than I had expected!" Thimble announced. Rarity nodded. They stayed silent as they walked back through the castle. "OK, Rare, explain why they knew you!" Thimble demanded, she couldn't hold it in anymore. Rarity stared at her for a second. "I have absolutely NO idea!" Rarity almost shouted. They turned a corner and Rarity stopped in her tracks. The dragon was walking up the other end of the corridor. THE dragon. Rarity's pulse quickened and she found herself blushing. The dragon also stopped in his tracks in amazement. Rarity tried to not look at those gorgeous green eyes but she couldn't. They drew her in; she couldn't help it. She was flooded with recognition and another feeling that bubbled up inside her. She would have described it as love if she didn't know any better. She couldn't be in love with this dragon that she had never even spoke to and only seen once before this. Could she?
Chapter 4She was there. Right in front of him. Rarity. Spike had convinced himself he had imagined that whole day, years ago. When he had told Twilight about it she had rattled on about how his grief for Rarity was causing him to imagine things. There was no denying it now. She was stood there, as beautiful as the first day he saw her. Her big blue eyes sparkled with recognition as she looked at him. Did she remember him from that day? Her friend looked so ordinary compared to Rarity, she was pulling on Rarity's arm. Rarity had frozen in place and was looking at Spike wide eyed. He couldn't look away from her beauty. "Spike? Could you please slow down?" Twilight snapped as she turned the corner. She was levitating a trail of books that followed her around. She looked at Spike in confusion at why he had stopped moving. She followed where his eyes were looking and gasped. The books fell to the floor with a clatter. "R-Rarity?" Twilight breathed with eyes wide. Rarity broke away from the dragon's mesmerising eyes and looked at Thimble. She was staring at Rarity with her mouth open. "Rare, what's happening?" Thimble hissed under her breath. Rarity was speechless. Why did everyone recognise her? Did she look like her namesake that much? "I don't know. Come on, darling, let's go." Rarity said quietly. She was surprised at Princess Twilight's reaction too. Although, she knew that Twilight and the other Rarity had been good friends. The dragon and Twilight were both still stood there in shock. When Rarity drew closer to them she saw the dragon, who she assumed was called Spike, clearer. He was gorgeous. At this thought, Rarity blushed and looked down as she walked past him. How rude and unladylike of her to stare like that! She felt his eyes on her back until she turned the corner. Her heart rate was erratic and she felt as if she would faint. Thimble kept darting looks at her which Rarity could see out of the corner of her eye. They managed to get to the castle exit and Rarity had never thought she would be so relieved to leave the palace! It was raining still and neither of them had umbrellas. Rarity didn't mind as much as Thimble seemed to. Although Rarity didn't want her mane to be messed up she felt like the cold rain would cool down her blushing cheeks. And her mane wasn't looking it's best anyway. They weren't very far away from the boutique but they were very far away from Rarity's house. "I think I might take the bus home." Rarity remarked when she spied a sheltered bus stop. Thimble nodded and waved goodbye as she carried on walking. Rarity gave a little sigh as she waited for the bus and tried not to think about the strange way the Princesses and that dragon had acted around her. It really seemed like she was a ghost and that they knew her. She decided to look up the element of Generosity bearer when she returned to her house. To her relief the bus stopped for her. She gladly rushed on but was surprised by how many ponies were on the bus too. It was basically packed. Luckily she found a seat and sat down on it heavily. The day had drained her emotions and she felt exhausted suddenly. She looked lazily around at the other ponies. They were all the posh, snobby ponies that lived near the castle. They were all looking down and no one was speaking. Rarity felt slightly out of place, although she was pleased there were no rowdy young ponies- she just wasn't in the mood for their drama. The bus stopped and a grey haired, yellow pony got on. She had her hair in a big pink bow that made her look youthful even though she was obviously fairly old. She had a checked scarf around her neck. The old pony paid for her ticket and thanked the driver in a country accent. The pony turned around and looked for a seat. Rarity's seat was tucked away in the corner but she could see there were no more spare seats. The pony was clearly soaking wet and unsteady on her feet. Rarity waited politely for one of the business ponies who were near the front to give the pony her seat. After a moment Rarity realised they were too snobby to stand for her. Rarity was appalled and immediately squeezed out from her row. "Excuse me, would you like my seat?" Rarity asked politely. The pony smiled as she turned around but her mouth dropped open slightly. Rarity was struck by a feeling of dread; did she 'recognise' her too? "Thank you. How generous of ya!" The older pony said throwing a dirty look to the other ponies. Rarity smiled and stood up for the rest of the journey, happy to help that old pony. Her parents had always told her she was beautiful but Rarity believed that they just said it like every parent did. However, she noticed some stallions dart a look at her. She was still young and wasn't very comfortable with it. The old pony started to talk to her and she was thankful; it gave her an excuse to not just look around. She learnt the pony's name was Apple Bloom and her sister was an element of Harmony-Honesty. Rarity was surprised, you didn't usually run into people who knew the elements of harmony and it support her theory that she did look like the element of generosity. Apple Bloom must have known the original Rarity. "So, because of your sister did you know all the elements of Harmony?" Rarity asked casually. "Yes I knew them all, we were close friends. I even know Twilight, I still see her sometimes." Apple Bloom said as if she was proving a point to the snobs on the bus. Rarity secretly cheered her on, since she grew up in a rougher area she still held a small kind of annoyance at the snobbish and posh. "In fact, you look remarkably like the element of Generosity! What's your name?" Apple Bloom asked with a glint in her eyes. It was if she already knew the answer. "My name is Rarity and I was born on the sad day that my namesake died on. My parents thought that I looked so much like her that I would be named as a tribute to her memory. A few people have commented on it." Rarity replied with a smile. "Ah, that is quite a coincidence!" Apple Bloom stated. She then looked out of the rain stained window. Rarity was reluctant to stop speaking as she wanted to know more. But she decided to let the old pony do what she wanted. With a small squeak of alarm Rarity realised where they were. They were nearly at her stop. She quickly pressed the stop button and the bus had to slow quite rapidly, which was difficult in the rain. Rarity rushed to the front of the bus to apologise to the driver for being so sudden. She made sure she was very polite and the driver seemed to be thankful for the respect. With a last smile at Apple Bloom she left the bus and was immediately met by a spray of rain and wind. Rarity gritted her teeth and struggled to her house. She was dripping by the time she stumbled inside. Her mother and father were waiting for her and they didn't look impressed. "Hello." Rarity said cautiously. "And where have you been?" Her mother asked in a strained voice. Rarity looked at the clock in confusion. When she saw the time her eyes widened. It wasn't just getting dark outside from the rain clouds. Night was almost falling, that would explain why the bus was so full; rush hour. "I'm sorry, I didn't realise it was that late!" Rarity said truthfully. Her mother's mouth was stretched thin and her father's brow was creased. "THIS came for you." Her father snapped and gave her a package. Rarity opened it and found a necklace inside. "We don't go to work everyday so you can squander the money on lavish gifts for yourself!" Her father growled softly. Rarity blinked and looked up. She didn't buy the necklace! "I didn't buy this! I would never do that! And even if I did I could just go and find some gems to pay for it!" Rarity blurted out. She then bit her lip in embarrassment at being so unladylike. Rarity floated the necklace out of the box to examine it. It was a golden collar with a purple diamond gem embedded in it. Apart from the colour the gem was basically her cutie mark. It did look like something she would have bought for herself if she was being selfish with money. Her parent just looked at her skeptically. "Hmmm, I suppose you could pay it off out of your work wages. Try it on." her mother said, enticed with how sparkly the gem was. Rarity smiled faintly and lifted it around her neck. She let out a startled gasp when some kind of energy flowed through her. The gem shone out blindingly. Her parents let out yelps of alarm. "What was that?" Rarity whispered in a small voice. All the lights had gone out in the building.
Chapter 5Her parents sat down in stunned silence. "Rarity, dear, what kind of shop did you buy that jewellery from?" Her mother asked her with a smile. Rarity giggled a bit, she was still in shock. "Erm, perhaps there is a letter inside. I will check again." Rarity stated and rummaged through the box. It was completely empty. Rarity bit her lip, what if that necklace had put a dangerous enchantment on her? She should have checked it first! As if sensing their need for an explanation, a letter materialised. Rarity pounced on it at once and hastily opened it, ripping the corner. Her parents stood close together, anxiously as they watched their daughter read. Rarity's eyebrows got closer and closer together the more she read. Finally she looked up and she had her mouth open. Her parents raised their eyebrows in invitation to explain. "I must go to see Princess Twilight, tomorrow at 10 am." Rarity explained. "What else did it say?" her mother asked, disappointing that her normally chatty daughter didn't tell her everything. "Well, you should read it." Rarity replied and thrust the letter into her parents' hands. Dear Rarity, The necklace I have sent to you was not ordinary, as you probably know. It was an Element of Harmony, Generosity to be exact. I put a magical monitor on the necklace to see if you really are the new Element of Generosity as I suspected. That monitor has just informed me that you are indeed the element! Obviously this is a brilliant thing, what an opportunity and gift. As the Element of Magic, it is my job to search for the new Elements and You are the first I have found. But know, with your help I should be able to locate the others much faster. Therefore, I think it is necessary for you to journey down to the castle to meet me. Come to the Southern Gate at 10am and someone will be waiting to bring you in. I do hope that we will become good friends, sincerely, Princess Twilight Rarity's parents finished reading and looked up at their daughter with astonishment plastered across their faces. "Did you have any idea you were an element of harmony?" her father asked. "Well, no. But some odd things happened to me today." Rarity said vaguely. She lay on the sofa dramatically as her parents watched her in shock. "The Princesses seemed to recognise me at the castle and a dr-dragon." Rarity explained, her voice shaking when she thought of the dragon. Her parents exchanged looks. "Do you mean they recognised you... as in your looks or you generous spirit?" her mother asked. Rarity considered this for a moment. The Princesses only seemed to take notice of her when they saw her. "Recognised me... as in my looks." Rarity replied after a moment. Her father chuckled. "See, I knew we named you well, you are almost the splitting image of your namesake!" he said. Rarity gave a small laugh. "Well, we'll just have to have a big dinner to celebrate you being an element!" her mother exclaimed. She clapped her hooves together in delight. *** "Twilight? Are you alright?" Spike asked. Twilight turned around to face him and saw she'd been crying. "No, it's Rarity! It really is. I'm sorry I didn't believe you, years ago." Twilight apologised, unable to meet his eyes. Spike smiled at her, trying to cheer her up. "It's fine, Twilight, really. This can't be Rarity, my Rarity." Spike told her. Twilight raised a sceptical eyebrow. "Oh, really, I could have sworn I saw you staring at her with that love-struck look dreamy expression. Just like the first time you ever saw her." Twilight teased with a grin. Spike smiled secretly; he knew he could cheer her up. "Oh yeah? Well, this time I wasn't the only one staring. Rarity couldn't keep her eyes off me." Spike said, sticking out his chest whilst trying not to laugh. "Well, you can see her tomorrow, it turns out she is the Element of Generosity like I thought." Twilight said, her mood becoming more solemn again. Spike's mouth dropped open. "She's the element of Generosity? Twilight, is it really... her?" Spike asked. Twilight knew what he meant. He meant: did Rarity return to life again, reincarnated? Did she have the original Rarity's memories? "I really don't know, Spike." Twilight said, turning to look out at the glowing moon in the sky. Twilight had only acted as Princess Celestia and Luna had suggested. She just hoped that Rarity hadn't been too freaked out to come back here. Although, if Spike was right, maybe she would want to see a certain dragon again. She heard the door of the study close with a snap as Spike left the room. Twilight was suddenly struck by a thought. She darted over to her desk and pulled out the full map of Equestria. "Hmm, I wonder..." Twilight mused aloud. She turned around and let out a startled shriek. "Twilight! Are you well?" Princess Luna asked. Luna flew into the room through the open balcony door and Twilight hadn't noticed. "I received your letter. This Rarity is the Element of Generosity, also?" Luna inquired. Twilight nodded with her hoof clutched to her rapidly beating heart. "Wow, Princess, you really scared me then." Twilight said after recovering. "I am sorry, Twilight. My sister will join us soon and you can explain the situation with both of us here." Luna said simply. The Princess of the night then elegantly walked over to a cushioned armchair and sank into it. Then Luna let out a huge yawn. "I apologise for being rude and yawning that way, Twilight Sparkle. However, the rainy days are taking their toll on my emotions." Luna said with a sigh. Twilight nodded sympathetically. Nothing could be done about the rain with magic of pegasi. The pegasi were not on strike like the public thought. The weather and sky had been made this way ever since Rarity, the original, had died. It was because all the elements had passed on that the weather had dimmed. Obviously the new Rarity being alive meant that perhaps the others were too. And that could be why they still had certain days of sunshine because of the light they bring to the world. If they re-unite the other elements with their necklaces then the normal weather would be restored. In fact, looking out of the window, Twilight could tell some of the cloud had lifted since Rarity got her necklace. This realisation filled Twilight with hope. Not only her, but hope for Spike. Spike, who had thought he was damned to a practically immortal life without the love he had promised to love forever. Rarity being alive again meant he wouldn't be so lonely. Twilight smiled down at the map of Equestria on the desk and looked up as Celestia entered the room. "Twilight, she is the element?" Princess Celestia asked simply. Twilight nodded in reply and Luna stood up from her seat. "And you have invited her here?" Celestia said, as much a question as a note to herself. Again, Twilight nodded. "She will undoubtedly help us to find the other elements. I just hope she isn't too scared and confused by what we have to tell her." Princess Luna said with a sigh. "Well, I don't know if telling her everything would help anyone. We could just tell her enough, and then she won't get scared and she will be happier." Twilight considered. Luna's lip thinned at the thought of holding back the truth. "I trust that you understand your friend better than we would, perhaps you are correct in that idea." Princess Celestia pondered. Luna looked at her sister in surprise. "But- shouldn't she be allowed to know the truth?" Luna asked, perplexed. "Not if it would hurt her more than ignorance would." Princess Celestia replied with a sad smile. "And what about Spike?" Luna asked Twilight. "He's just happy to see her again. And this time Rarity seemed just as love-struck as him." Twilight said with a smile. The princesses all smiled and discussed what had to be done. Celestia had to leave to raise the sun and Twilight watched a song lark fly past the window in the dawn light. The lark flew to the east, in the direction of Manehatten. Twilight smiled at the old memories she had made in that city with Rarity. Now she just might be able to make more with her friend.
Chapter 6Rarity stared at her reflection in the mirror. She hadn't been completely prepared for her visit to the Princesses last time. And even though she knew she was going there now, she still wasn't prepared. The words 'element of harmony' kept flying through her head. What would everyone at school say when they heard about it? It would completely change her life, surely. She would have more duties, she would be recognised and watched. Rarity's initial reaction was to put on a brave face and make sure she looked her best. If she was going to be the Element of Generosity she might as well look fabulous doing it. The rain was pattering dismally against the window pane and Rarity stared out at it. She should be excited. But all she felt was fear and anxiousness. It was all too shocking and she could hardly believe it. She was up most of the night because she was so nervous. She was nervous she wouldn't live up to expectation. Rarity gave a small sigh, before leaving her bedroom. She had already eaten breakfast so all she needed was to pack her bag. Just as she was buttoning it up, the doorbell rang. Rarity frowned and looked at the clock that was sat on the mantlepiece. She had received no message that she would be collected, and it was too early anyway. Rarity opened the door and looked at who it was. "Rarity! Hi, wow, you look even prettier than you normally do! We're only going to help at the shelter, not a spa!" Cloud remarked with a short laugh. Rarity immediately reddened in embarrassment and horror. She was going to the shelter with Cloud! She had forgotten in the rush and shock of everything. "You're ready on time for once! That's good, because I need to ask a small favour of you. Rarity, I really need to go to this job interview. It is the one I was telling you about! You know, 'the chance of a lifetime'! I'll be back at lunch but could you go by yourself, at first. You know I wouldn't ask this of you, but it is so important!" Cloud rambled. Rarity immediately nodded and assured her it would be fine. Her generous nature had taken over before she had thought about it. "Great! I'll be back at lunch!" Cloud called and then trotted off. Rarity stayed still for a moment to collect her thoughts. It would seem as if she would either have to cancel the work with the shelter, or cancel with the princess. Rarity bit her lip as she made up her mind, resolutely. Grabbing a pencil and paper she scrawled out a message and sent it. Rarity breathed out in relief and began trotting to her destination. *** The letter arrived at Twilight's desk in a flurry of blue magic. The letter had obviously been written in haste. Dear Princess Twilight, I do apologise at the terribly last minute change of plans I will have to force upon you. I'm afraid I will not be able to visit you today, because I have a social matter that I must attend. I hope we can reschedule because I am aware of how important this could be. I would have come today but I already promised a friend. My sincerest apologies (it is very rude and I hope a Princess is not accustomed to such things) Rarity Twilight read the letter and then looked at it with wide eyes. Spike would be disappointed at not seeing her. And what was this pressing social occasion? She sat for a minute and tapped on hoof on the ground. But then she couldn't hold it any longer and she rushed to the shelves of books in the room. Her magic surrounded one of the books and it flung out and floated by Twilight's head. It flew opened to a page and Twilight read the text as if her life depended on it. A colourful glow surrounded her horn as it blared into life. There was a bright white light and then it subsided to a milky glow. A mirror-like object had appeared in front of Twilight. Then, as if someone had adjusted a dial, the glow transformed into a clear picture of Rarity walking determinedly in the rain. Twilight watched the white unicorn turn down a rough-looking street and then into an alley. Twilight cocked her head and wondered what an upper-class pony like Rarity was doing in the slum-like side of town. Rarity turned into a shabby looking building with a peeling green sign above it. But Rarity moved too fast for Twilight to see what the sign read. Rarity made her way past countless plastic chairs and tables and trotted into another room. Her blue magic tugged a green plastic apron around herself and tucked her perfectly styled hair into a turquoise hairnet. Twilight watched in fascination and curiosity as she watched Rarity enter back into the room with the tables. Twilight wondered what Rarity was doing wearing that; she looked like a dinner lady. When Rarity moved over to a small kitchen area, Twilight was even more surprised. Then Twilight noticed the others that were in the room, they looked like tramps and it was clear they were homeless. One particularly filthy one walked over to Rarity with shuffling steps. Twilight expected Rarity to flinch back from the dirt but instead Rarity beamed at him. "Hello, Ted, how are you this week?" Rarity's elegant voice asked. Ted smiled slightly, revealing rotting teeth. But his face looked friendly and encouraging. "Same as always, Rare, better when you and Cloud are here with us." Ted answered in a gruff voice. Rarity's face fell a little. "I'm sorry, Ted, but Cloud isn't here today. She had an important interview so I'll be taking her shift as well, until lunch." Rarity said with her smile back on her face. Ted's expression changed slightly into one of annoyance. He looked at Rarity for a moment and Rarity dropped her eyes, she seemed to be ashamed. "Rare, how long are you going to let her take advantage of you for? She's a nice girl but she never shows up here if she can help it and leaves you to work everything out! She always has something more important than you. You're a lovely girl, but you have to stick up for yourself more!" Ted told her firmly. "Ted, I do stick up for myself, but I just can't abandon you here. You know if Cloud gets fired no one else will volunteer. This place will be shut down!" Rarity said sadly. Ted sighed and shook his head. "You're too generous for your own good, girl." Ted murmured. Rarity simply smiled in reply and she served him his food. After everyone had been served, Rarity went over to sit by them and talk. When they learnt that Cloud wasn't coming they all rolled their eyes and tutted. They all mentioned how Rarity was so generous. Rarity just thanked them and her cheeks flamed up in embarrassment. They soon moved onto different topics and Twilight was amazed at how easily Rarity slipped into conversation with these people. Rarity began to explain her scheme about the umbrellas. All the homeless people praised her idea and welcomed it. "And how did you get the snooty Princesses to sponsor it? " one person said. Rarity smiled at him. "The Princesses are kind-hearted. You shouldn't listen to rumours that say they don't care about the 'SlumSide'. They want to help here as much as I do. This is one of the ways they are helping!" Rarity told them with a laugh. "And anyway, you should be grateful the 'snooty' Princesses even cared enough to let me see them" "That's just amazing Rarity. You actually met the Princesses? You do too much for us, you know?" a scruffy-looking mare gasped. "No, I don't do enough! There are so many times I have to walk past children suffering and I can give them nothing! It hurts me. If I can't help them then I must keep helping others!" Rarity stated forcefully. "Rarity, most ponies that live uptown have never even set foot here! You do enough, maybe too much!" one said. Everyone shouted their agreement. A bell rang on the wall and Rarity shot up. "Alright, I'm sorry, everyone, you know what that means." Rarity said with a grimace. Everyone stared at her, waiting. "Chocolate pudding!" Rarity sang as she skipped to the kitchen. Everyone in the room cheered as she took the pudding out of the oven. Appreciative murmurs flew across the room as she served out the pudding to everyone. Rarity's tummy rumbled slightly when she smelt the pudding. She smiled and picked up the bowl. Instead of sitting down she walked outside into the rain. There was a small filly curled up on the pavement. Rarity smiled kindly and handed her the bowl. "Are you alright? Would you like to come inside?" Rarity asked the child. The child stared at her in amazement, she then leapt to her frail feet and followed Rarity inside. Twilight felt a small tear run down her face. It was almost impossible how generous Rarity was. She seemed perfect. Absolutely perfect! A small pang of jealousy welled up in Twilight. How could she be so generous, so pretty, and so without problems? A knock on the door of Twilight's study made Twilight Jump and she broke the spell. Spike walked in with a worried frown on his face. "Twilight, Rarity didn't come!" Spike exclaimed. Twilight squeaked. "Oh, I'm so sorry, Spike, Rarity sent me a letter, telling me she couldn't come. I'm sorry I forgot to tell you!" Twilight moaned. Spike just sighed. "It is fine, I was afraid something had happened to her." Spike replied. Twilight smiled at Spike's reaction to the news. Only he couldn't be mad at her for leaving him to stand in the rain for an hour for no reason. Maybe Rarity was just about perfect enough for her little dragon brother.
Chapter 7Rarity frowned up at the clock on the wall behind her. Cloud was meant to be there half an hour ago. She had to be at her boutique job in less than an hour and it looked as if the storm outside was getting worse. The little girl Rarity brought into the shelter had gone and fetched some of her friends and family and the shelter was almost overflowing. There was only so much Rarity could do alone, her magic just wasn't strong enough. Her hooves were starting to ache and she could feel parts of her mane were escaping out of the hairnet. She was happy that the people in there were so cheerful and so much like a family. "Rarity? Would you like some help?" asked a little filly. Rarity smiled at her wearily. "I couldn't ask that of you! I-" Rarity began but she was interrupted when Ted stood up and walked over. "Well, It is a good job I didn't ask then!" Ted said with a grin and he immediately started to help. Rarity was touched by their kindness. As they served out the food together she couldn't help but feel slightly resentful that Cloud hadn't returned. But the children's laughter and joy soon made her forget about it. The sky had cleared up remarkably when everyone began to leave. They had all cleaned up after themselves and had been so polite. The same could not be said for some fancy rich customers uptown. Rarity was disgusted by the upper-classes lack of manners and the conceit they had for the poor. Rarity locked up the kitchen of the shelter and began to make her way outside. Because the sky had cleared, the weather had got colder and Rarity gave a small shiver. She walked briskly to her job, looking forward to getting out of the cold. There were more people on the street now because of the weather. The children playing reminded Rarity of how she and Cloud used to play. Thinking of Cloud made her sad and slightly worried. Cloud could have been kidnapped for all Rarity knew, and that could have been why she wasn't helping at the shelter. Rarity grew more and more anxious for her so she decided to call her when she got to the boutique. The little tinkle of the bell over the door made Thimble look up. "Rarity. You're late again." Thimble said in a flat tone. Rarity blinked in surprise at her friend's hostility. "I'm truly sorry Thimble but Cloud-" Rarity was interrupted. "Stop it with the Cloud excuse. I'm sure what you're doing in that shelter is doing good, but I need you here. You do more good to people here! You know that old woman, Victori Call, who comes in here? She came in not so long ago and left again because you weren't here. We're loosing business, Rarity! Have you seen our last income report? It is atrocious!" Thimble ranted. Rarity nodded and listened throughout it all. "But with the umbrella project, our income will go up!" Rarity reminded her. As soon as Rarity mentioned the project, Thimble seemed to pale. "Oh my gosh! The Princesses expect us to finish that first project by Thursday! Forget about finance! We are starting it now!" Thimble exclaimed. Rarity bit back a giggle at her friend's reaction. They set to work without a second thought to the disagreement they had. "Rarity?" Thimble asked softly, after a while of work. Rarity looked up from what she was doing to reply. "Yes, darling?" Rarity prompted. "Why do you let Cloud walk all over you like that? With any other pony I know you would stick up for yourself." Thimble asked. Rarity looked back to her work and didn't reply for a second. When she looked up again she had considered what she was about to say. "Because... I was responsible for her sister's death. Let me explain before you think I'm a murderer. It was several years ago, when I was a filly. Cloud and I were close friends. I still had as much interest for fashion as I do now, so I would drag Cloud along to peer into my favourite shop window. I always used to get hypnotised by the dresses then; I never thought I would be able to wear such beautiful clothes. I used to force Cloud inside so I could ask the owner about materials etc. But on some days the shop owner would let me dress up in a feather boa and gems. One day, Cloud and I were supposed to be taking her little sister to the park but I made them stop on the way so I could daydream about being a princess and wearing big dresses. Cloud was as bored as she usually was but her sister (Lantern) was as impressed as I was. That day, the shop owner let me dress Lantern up too. Something you don't know about me, Thimble, is that I used to live in a rough area. While I was daydreaming a drunk staggered along the road behind us. He had a knife and was waving it around. Cloud shook me and we hid Lantern behind us as he walked into the shop. I was terrified as he pointed the knife at me. He said, 'you spoilt little ponies all think you are sooo important, look at you, a little princess! I'm sure your daddy will buy you more gems to keep you from crying'. The shop owner was stricken and we were cowering away. 'You are so young and think you are the centre of the world. You are so young it is disgusting!' he was ranting and raging, swinging his arms around crazily. As he moved about he spotted Lantern, dressed up in her gems, crying. His face went purple with rage. 'HA! I thought you were too young! You make me sick! You are sick!" he roared and.. and that was when she died... that poor, innocent little girl! And it was my fault; it was my stupid, materialistic dreams that caused her to die." Rarity explained, with tears pouring down her face. Thimble watched her with a open mouth as Rarity told her. "Honey, Rarity, it wasn't your fault!" Thimble tried to console her. "It might not seem like it. But it was. It was my selfishness. I should have listened to Cloud and gone to the park. And that is why I let her 'walk over me' not only because of the pain I caused, but also because I should listen to her. I know she has been using my generosity for a while now... but I enjoy working at the shelter. Of course, I would prefer to not miss any work here too. That is why I think I should have different shifts." Rarity told Thimble. When Rarity mentioned shifts Thimbles' ears perked up. "Different shifts can be arranged, Rarity, as long as you still do the work, which I have no doubt about." Thimble promised with a warm smile. "But, Rarity, you do have to stand up to Cloud." Thimble added as an afterthought. Rarity nodded in agreement; she had put it off for too long anyway. The two ponies quickly grew out of the somber mood and began work again, happily. Thimble was grateful of Rarity's confession, it was obviously not an easy thing to tell. Another thing was worrying Thimble though. Rarity had said she came from a rough area. Thimble was honestly surprised. Rarity's accent, manners and posture were upper class. she must have moved while she was still quite young to have picked it up so definitely. It made sense though, that Rarity lived in the slums. It explained why she was so eager to help others from there. They must remind her how lucky she was to find a way out.
