Together as Oneby NightsongWritesChaptersChapter 1- The Rainbow FamilyChapter 2- Musical HopeChapter 3- New BeginningsChapter 1- The Rainbow FamilyDreaming. It was one of Rainbow Dash’s favourite activities, outside of flying and having alone time with her marefriend. Heck, it was half the reason she napped so often. Dreaming… dreaming let her do so many things she couldn’t do, or wouldn’t even attempt to do, in real life. Fly-swimming beneath the ocean, riding lightning bolts through the skies and visiting all the surrounding countries, becoming the Commissioner of the Equestrian Weather Service, the Captain of the Wonderbolts… Becoming a mother. Lately… that particular dream had become more and more frequent, as of late, and often combined heavily with the others. Dream-Rainbow was always smiling, always laughing. The proud light in her eyes had faded somewhat, overshadowed by a wiser, more humble, but highly protective… fire. It was both comforting, and vaguely disconcerting. And with Dream-Rainbow, always by her side, was a little orange filly. Perched on their back as they raced across the world on a lightning bolt; tucked under a wing as they swam beneath the waves. Standing proudly beside her mother in a Wonderbolts uniform, or flying beside her as they soared through the clouds, creating the weather that kept Equestria, and many of their neighbors, alive and well. Rainbow knew why that was, and who. An all-mighty yawn rose out of the depths of the little rainbow pegasus, and a snrk responded, driving Rainbow further out of dream-world. "Good morning there, Dashie,” the gravelly, somewhat-sleepy voice teased, and Rainbow shivered as a muzzle softly caressed her neck. As always, that voice drove a massive smile out of Rainbow Dash as her eyes opened, greeted by the sight of fiery mane and a tender grin. Spitfire. Her idol, her mentor, and the love of her life. Over a year ago this coming Saturday, Spitfire had arrived in Ponyville, stunning Rainbow Dash with news of her retirement from the Wonderbolts and her interest in joining the Ponyville Weather Service. It had taken the older mare several hours just to convince the stunned mare that, no, she did not want to take over as manager, and wanted to rise up the ranks on her own. And despite being a Wonderbolt and one of the best fliers of her age, Spitfire had… taken some time to become as proficient as many of the other pegasi, when it came to weather servicing. But in hindsight… it had been that struggle that had brought the pair together in the first place. “Come on Dash, get up,” Spitfire whispered softly in her ear, a hot breath washing over the sensitive appendage, before a tongue playfully dipped at it, “It’s the Day.” Rainbow Dash’s violet eyes flew wide open, and she gave a soft mewl. The Day. They were heading to the Ponyville Social Office to finalize the adoption process on Scootaloo! With a soft groan of stiff muscles and bones, she rose to her hooves, tail waving slowly as she looked over at Spitfire with no small bit of trepidation. “T-that’s today?” she breathed, ears splaying out nervously. “Yep,” Spitfire merely replied, smiling over at her fiance with a soft chuckle bubbling out. She didn’t have to a say a word. They had long since had the talk- Rainbow thinking she’d be a terrible mother, Spitfire promptly bapping her across the ear and replying to the opposite. She knew of Rainbow’s dreams, just as Dash knew of Spitfire’s. Her dreams of a family, and of living her life with the mare she loved. Her dreams of glory with the Wonderbolts had been achieved, and now her only wish was to secure her legacy, and her love. All Spitfire had to do now was soothe Rainbow’s fears. Two wings, large and fluffy without their morning preening, slowly curled around her rainbowed companion, drawing her close and entwining with Rainbow’s primary feathers. A soft coo rose out of Rainbow’s throat, a sound Spitfire had often likened to a dove. The magic of their flight feathers was strong, and twisting them together sent a powerful rush through the pegasi. A confident chuckle rose out of her lover, and Spitfire happily leaned forward to embrace Rainbow Dash, kissing softly at the soft fur of her neck. “We can do this,” she told Dash firmly, her old Captain’s voice rising up, “We’ll get Scootaloo, and we’ll give her the family she deserves. That we both deserve.” They could. Rainbow knew that, in the bottom of her heart. With a thankful smile, Rainbow Dash leaned up to kiss Spitfire softly, her lips molding to her lover’s like they were made to fit together. She loved her taste- a mix of apples and smoke, no matter what time of day or meal last eaten. Rainbow’s, however… “Mmm. Love… brush your teeth,” Spitfire teased, barking out a laugh as a smirking Rainbow practically tossed her out of bed. An hour later, a freshly showered and fed Rainbow Dash and Spitfire, both of them proudly wearing the braids of their lovers' lost primary feathers in their manes, dived from her cloudhome, currently parked over Sweet Apple Acres, and lazily banked on the air currents that curled and flowed above Ponyville. The day was beautiful. Celestia’s sun had risen over the mountains, bathing the land beneath in gentle warmth, and the clouds the Weather Service had sent up the night before, preparing for an incoming thunderstorm in the following weeks, gave everypony a great deal of cool shade. To a pegasi’s enhanced eyes, the world of the sky was a tapestry of currents and breezes, like a painting come to life. Dash had never thought herself a deep thinker, but every time she flew, she felt that this was how the entire world should see the landscape as she did. Maybe the beauty would make it a better place… An orange blur was keeping pace with them on the ground, and a proud smile split across Rainbow’s muzzle. Scootaloo was amazing on that scooter- even if her wings were badly stunted, they could power a great deal of speed into her little machine. Once Scoots was her daughter… A little shiver ran through Rainbow’s spine. Her daughter. She was really going to have a daughter. And not any daughter, but the best damn daughter in all Ponyville. Scootaloo WAS the best. She may not be smart like Sweetie Belle and Twilight, but she was one of the better athletes amongst the foals her age, and was just as clever as Applebloom. Rainbow adored the little filly, as did Spitfire. She grinned over at her lover, who had spotted the blur as well, and was grinning just as broadly. Spitfire and Scootaloo had hit it off famously since day one, when Scootaloo had challenged, and beaten, Spitfire in a hoof-race. Terrified she may have offended Spitfire, Scootaloo had spun around at the finish line, only to be tackled and ferociously noogied under the uproarious laughter of Spitfire and Rainbow Dash. They had practically been inseparable since, much to Rainbow’s relief. “You ready?” she called out to Spitfire, nodding at Spitfire’s responding wink and dive, and quickly followed after her. What awaited the pair was shocking; all of her friends stood in front of the Social Office. Twilight and her- goddesses this still stunned Rainbow- marefriend Trixie stood off to one side, a bright smile radiating off the faces of Rainbow’s best friend and her... ex-nemesis? Applejack stood near the back, smirking widely over at her top “rival.” Rainbow merely winked over at, pulling a chuckle from the farmer pony. Rarity and Fluttershy were both holding back tears; the buttery pegasus had a wing draped over marefriend, and Rarity was gently leaned against Fluttershy, to take the weight of her pregnant belly off her swollen hooves. And Pinkie Pie… was… Rainbow sighed, “Pinkie party?” The whole group merely smirked, and Rainbow suppressed a groan. It was going to be a long night after this. But totally worth it. A tiny muzzle gently pressed against Rainbow’s side, a slight tremor running through it, and Rainbow’s wing extended down to embrace Scootaloo to her side tightly. Scootaloo’s tiny primary feathers twisted into Rainbow’s, and a little sniffle rose out of the filly. “R-rainbow Dash… y-you don’t… have to, I-I mean…” “Hey now, what about me?” Spitfire’s chuckle was punctuated by her own wing joining the embrace, wrapping their soon-to-be daughter in feathery warmth. “We’re doing this together, Scoots,” she continued, leaning down to nuzzle along Scootaloo’s violet mane and ear, “All three of us.” Inspired, Rainbow gently leaned down, using a hoof to turn Scootaloo’s face around. The poor filly looked torn between utter happiness, and complete fear. Her violet eyes were rolling in emotion, and Rainbow recognized it well. The fear of failure, the fear of disappointment and rejection. With a soft smile, Rainbow leaned forward to gently kiss the bridge of her nose, then stared sternly in Scootaloo’s eyes. “Three of us, together, always.” Scootaloo gulped, neck bowing in a nod, then turning to peek at Spitfire. The former Wonderbolts captain was far more direct; a fetlock hooked around Scootaloo, and she squealed as a hoof ruffled and noogied her little head. “Okay, okay!” she yelped out, giggles matching those of the crowd around her, doubts finally dying in her eyes. Satisfied, if nervous, but with a smile on all their faces, the trio walked into the Office, ready to begin their life as a family. Forever. Chapter 2- Musical Hope “Octavia… sh-she… she’s beautiful…” The sheer wonder and adoration in the DJ mare’s voice soothed all the tension and worry that had built up in Octavia’s body since she stepped off the train from Manehatten to Canterlot. Vinyl Scratch’s ruby eyes, unrestricted from their glass barriers, were wide in delight, staring at every inch of the little filly on the photo. With a relieved sigh, Octavia set a small booklet on their worn coffee table. “She made this for us,” she whispered to Vinyl, smiling warmly down at the little gift, “Short stories, drawings, even a musical score… the Manehatten Orphanage had enrolled Firelight in one of their musical programs, even at her young age!” Vinyl blinked at her marefriend in surprise, then grinned again at the photo, a gleam of pride lighting her eyes. “The creatives will rule all, Tavi!” she cackled out, horn gleaming for a moment before a subtle backbeat began to play from her gear, stashed away in one corner. Octavia couldn’t make herself roll her eyes and play the game today. She was too busy wiping at her eyes, relieved to see the familiar energy and zest for life in the mare she loved. The past few months had been difficult on both of them; an attempt to use a spell to have Vinyl conceive between them had ended in a miscarriage, along with a powerfully depressing diagnosis from their attending doctor: Octavia was completely barren, and Vinyl suffered from a genetic disorder that made any pregnancy incredibly risky, and unlikely to end in a healthy birth. The self-loathing and horror in Vinyl’s eyes that day had given Octavia nightmares for weeks after, and both had neglected their music for some time, in their melancholy. It had been a simple flier that had changed that. Head bowed and simply trying to gather food from the local market to keep herself and Vinyl going, Octavia had been hit full in the face by a flier on the breeze. Scowling and snarling, she had ripped it off, trying to summon some kind of anger-eye-beam to burn it apart, only to notice the cover. Support the Orphans of Equestria! Young ponies looking for pen pals and families. No cash donation is required. Give them a chance. The flier was simple, made of a soft blue paper with a grey border and stamped with the approval of the Lunar Social Directive, but it had been a life-changer for the two mares. Vinyl had been understandably hesitant to sign up for the program at first, but Octavia had been insistent. She wasn’t sure why, but the flier had infused her with a desire to finally kick the slump they had been in, and perhaps it could even lead to… bigger and better things. “Did she like the CD?” Vinyl asked Octavia softly, gazing up at her with a small mix of fear and anticipation. “She played it the entire time I was there,” Octavia teased, leaning over to give her ear an affectionate kiss, “The whole building was shaking.” Vinyl’s answering grin was blinding. Firelight had been sucking up any amount of music from her pen pals that she possibly could, and when Vinyl and Octavia had read in one of their letters that the young filly had been spending her own money to get the music, they had instantly sent every recorded piece straight to her, free of charge. The answering letter had been stained with many happy tears. Craning her neck a bit, Octavia smiled fondly down at the photo Vinyl was stroking with a hoof. The little filly was beautiful. With a slicked and spiky mane of blue undertones and fiery points, and a mane of soft grey, she had a blinding little smile and a pair of bright, eager blue eyes, and her wings were spread wing, revealing grey feathers with the tips edged in blue and fire red. In the picture, she sported a set of blue glasses on her head, and a little blue bowtie, both gifts from her pen pals. Her cutie mark, a sixteenth note spiraling with blue and red, was just visible on her flank. A few tear drops fell on the photo, and Octavia jerked back in surprise, feeling the wetness staining her muzzle. She sheepishly glanced over Vinyl, who sported the same tell-tale marks. “We can’t bring her to Canterlot, can we Tavi?” A wince ran through Octavia as she stood on her hind legs at the kitchen counter, and Vinyl sighed softly at the nonverbal answer. She had expected it, really. They had known, even during the pregnancy attempt, that coming out as a fillyfooler couple with a family would not be taken well by the more conservative ponies of Canterlot. She had done some research into the Equestrian adoption policies and found that it tended to rely more on city ordinance than royal law. And from what she had found during the trip to the City Hall… “No, Vinyl, we couldn’t,” Octavia replied quietly, sitting back on her haunches and reaching up to rub her eyes, “I talked to the headmaster while I was there.” Vinyl was already up and moving while Octavia spoke, wrapping her forelegs around her earth pony lover and nuzzling into the soft mass of her mane. It smelled of vanilla and wood polish, as usual. “He said we would have to have a residence or plan to have one in a short amount of time before he would allow the transfer and adoption. And the Canterlot City Council had disallowed the transfer to… our kind of couples, several years ago. We would have to move.” “ ‘kay. Where to?” The suddenness of the reply seemed to surprise both of them, but Vinyl quickly squelched her own, steeling herself. Navigating the tricky club scene all her life, Vinyl Scratch had long since learned to trust her instincts, and at that moment, every point of her heart, soul, and mind were practically screaming at her to push forward at this with all her might. Firelight called to her. That little filly needed a family. She was a happy-go-lucky little mare, but even notoriously “overlook everything” Vinyl Scratch could see the want, the desperate need for love she exuded in every letter and phone call. And if she couldn’t have her own child naturally, well… “A-are you sure, Vinyl?” Octavia asked her slowly, biting her lip, “You’ll be giving up the Canterlot club-” A marshmellowy hoof gently settled over Octavia’s lips, and Vinyl smiled softly as tears rose to her ruby eyes. “I’d give up everything to make our family whole, Tavs.” ********************** Vinyl Scratch and Octavia Philharmonica both smiled sunnily as they stepped off the train from Ponyville; Vinyl had a stuffed backpack on her withers, while Octavia had a briefcase tied amongst her saddlebags. She wore a soft grey dress and a grey-pink scarf, while Vinyl had taken the opportunity at Ponyville to get a new black-blue suit from Rarity’s boutique. The trip to the little town had gone very well. Ponyville had struck down any anti-fillyfooler laws it had in place decades ago, and Mayor Mare and Princess Twilight had been more than welcoming when the two mares had asked about quickly moving to the small village. They had arranged to buy a cottage by Sweet Apple Acres, and a group of delivery ponies from the Royal Equestrian Mail Service would be picking up their belongings from Canterlot. All they had to do now… was get Firelight. The Manehatten train station was packed, but Celestia help you if you stood in the way of the two well-dressed mares. Vinyl’s magic, more than a few times, yanked too-slow ponies out of the way as they cantered through the mess briskly. The streets were no less congested, but they would not be slowed. This meant too much to both mares, and Firelight… Firelight was waiting. The orphanage was a massive brick building, towering over the apartments on either side. It was made in the old Celestial style, and was certainly inspiring… sadness-inspiring. To Vinyl, it looked far too much like a prison, not a place for children. The nervous mares exchanged glances. Octavia’s eyes were filled with anticipation and nervousness, and a shaky smile split her muzzle. Vinyl’s eyes held more in the line of self-deprecation, but Octavia’s smile banished the melancholy thoughts, and the bright, playful eyes of her DJ side began to show. With a set of dual nods, they trotted inside. Firelight was curled tightly in her little bunk near the back of the sleeping dorm, her face buried in the grey scarf Miss Octavia had left for her. It was soft, and had just the faintest scent of vanilla to it. She had scented the same when Octavia had given her a hug, and now… she just wanted her back. Her smile had lit up Firelight’s soul, and she could already feel the beginnings of a song forming in the back of her mind. Maybe a violin piece, or something with some ponies singing in the background… She winced as she heard the door to the dorm-barracks opened, and she curled further into herself, wings wrapping tightly until she was just a ball of fur and feathers around a strip of cotton and silk. Just go away, she prayed. She wanted to be alone, and try not to think of how lonely this all was. Firelight held no major hopes that this would lead to anything. Twister and Fast Flight had both been in contact with possible families for months, until the letters had stopped coming, and they never visited… As amazing as the gifts were, and the visit, Firelight knew that Miss Octavia and the awesome DJ probably would find a better foal in one of the other orphanages around Equestria. There had to- “Firelight?” The world stopped. “M… m-miss Octavia?” Firelight breathed, uncurling and kicking her legs frantically, whining as her wings refused to get around in place. No, no, she was looking like an idiot! Quickly tearing eyes turned to look down from her perch on the bunk. It WAS Miss Octavia, /and/ Vinyl Scratch. They were both dressed in their Sunday best, and were smirking up at her. Her eyes closed quickly, emotions rolling around in her little heart. Why did they have to come then? Yes, she had wanted them to, but she was about to burst into tears, and that was just foalish not- A warm, gentle grip lifted Firelight from the bed, and her eyes opened in surprise. The aura, a mix of blue and grey, hung around her body like a warm mist, and drew her down into the waiting arms of both mares. Up close, the little pegasus could see that the smirks were more like adoring smiles, and neither of the older mares had a dry eye. Vinyl embraced her tightly, and Firelight’s muzzle pressed against her mane. It was sharper, with a soft chemical scent that was surprisingly reassuring; strength, maybe. Glancing around after a moment, Firelight noted with some surprise that all of her things had been settled into a set of saddlebags and suitcases at the foot of the beds. Then it hit her with all the strength and subtlety of a speeding freight train. She peered at first Vinyl, then Octavia, hope growing with each reassuring smile that was given to her. The tearful cheer and sobs could be heard all the way outside, and all those outside could smile. A new family had been made. Chapter 3- New BeginningsFirelight bobbed her head slowly to Vinyl’s music, one earbud slid into an ear, while the other hung loosely, her ear stretched to catch any snippet of conversation from her… her moms. For the tenth time, the little pegasus gave a small sob, and blushed when Octavia drew her closer to her side. She just couldn’t believe it. She… Firelight… the tiny little mare with weird feathers… had Octavia Philharmonica and Vinyl Scratch as her parents. The best musical mares in… goddesses, all of Equis, probably, were taking her in as a daughter. The second they had left the orphanage, Vinyl had immediately taken a grinning Octavia and a thunderstruck Firelight down to a nearby clothing store. They had left with wide smiles and many tears, with Firelight dressed down in a slim, white leather jacket, her scarf wrapped around her neck, and new horseshoes to replace her battered old ones. It was utterly perfect. “Whatcha listenin’ to, kiddo?” Vinyl asked warmly, horn glowing as a soft swipe of magic removed the tears on Firelight’s cheeks. “You, of course,” she replied instantly, blushing, “Spin to Live.” Octavia blinked, smiling softly as she nodded in agreement, “Oooh, I like that one… ...didn’t you play that one at Luna’s birthday bash?” “Y-YOU PLAYED FOR THE PRINCESS!? THAT’S AWESOME!” Firelight squealed, eyes gazing at Vinyl in utter awe. Vinyl smirked, holding up a hoof to forestall the questions as she turned to look back at a group of angry passengers that had begun to stalk up the aisle. Vinyl’s glasses rose up for a moment and, though Firelight couldn’t see exactly what happened, something in Vinyl’s gaze had each of the passengers darting back to their seats in an instant. Smirk still well in place, Vinyl Scratch turned back around, ruffling a sheepish filly’s ears with a soft hoof. “We both have, actually. Octavia here has played at the Gala, and Celestia’s birthday party last year.” Octavia, coughing politely and gazing down at her hooves sheepishly, couldn’t help but giggle as Firelight nuzzled into her side. “W-what are they like?” The two older mares exchanged glances, smiling fondly in remembrance. “Heavenly.” “Buckin’ fun. ...what?” *************************** “Holy Celestia,” Firelight breathed, muzzle smooshed against the window as the train pulled into Ponyville Station. The little town was practically stolen from the back of a magazine on Amazing Places to Live. Thatched cottages were settled in neat rows, many of them sporting cozy gardens and benches out in front. The center of the town was taken up the Mayor’s Pavilion, and a few dozen little shops, many of them built to certain themes. Heck, there was a cupcake themed building of all things! Oh goddess, the amount of sugar that had to be in that building alone… “T-this is home?” she breathed, prying her gaze away and back to her new parents. Octavia was practically beaming as she looked between Firelight and the view of Ponyville, eyes misting over at the overwhelming emotion building in her heart. “Yep,” Vinyl answered quickly, tugging Firelight over for a firm group hug before Octavia could start bawling openly in the fairly crowded train car, “It’s called Ponyville. Small place, but I think you’ll love it, kiddo.” Firelight gave a soft meep in the center of the fuzzy hug, trying to spread her wings to show her excitement, “I-I do love it! I really do!” She glanced back at the town as it grew in size, and the little filly’s ears lowered slowly as errant thoughts cascaded through her mind. Hopefully, Ponyville would love her back… ******************* What in the name of the Celestial Sisters had Trixie been thinking? The Great and Highly Airsick Trixie groaned as she leaned her head outside the window of her and Twilight’s stateroom, struggling to keep last night’s dinner down in its proper place. There was a reason she always walked where she went. Motion sickness was a Lulamoon curse, sadly. It had already ruined a potential romantic cruise she had tried to spring on her fiance, then-marefriend. Cursed retching had hit just seconds after her proposal. Total moodkiller. And now they were on a packed diplomatic airship, bound for the southern jungles, past the Badlands. Practically the most unromantic thing ever, with motion sickness, and Trixie should… she… Over on the single bed she and Twilight shared, her violet lover had twisted the blankets around herself in a fairly risque fashion, mane fluffed up from her wiggling, twitching sleep movements. Her broad wings had slid through the sheets, twitching slightly in her sleep. Sickness forgotten, Trixie smiled lovingly down the purple alicorn, carefully trotting over and sliding atop her barrel, entwining her forelegs around Twilight’s back. Twilight was… soft. Not fat! Not by any stretch of the imagination. But years of junk food and study had given her soft curves and amazing flanks, and it made cuddling with the librarian Princess a comfortable affair. Trixie’s own body was far more lithe, and a tad bonier than her fiance’s, due to a lifetime of small meals and heavy cart pulling. She could practically mold herself against Twilight. Laying her ear on Twilight’s chest, Trixie closed her eyes, smiling dreamily as she lost herself in the sound of her love’s heartbeat. Strong. Powerful, like the Princess she adored. Trixie knew that she was lucky. She was an egotistical jerk. It was about of her charm! Just… few found it charming. Even Twilight hadn’t, not at first. It had taken two attempts to destroy Twilight in order for either of them to see past the masks they wore. They had met on the outskirts of Ponyville, away from the angry horde of villagers and Twilight’s overprotective friends. Raw emotions had played out, there may have been shouting… slapping… ...making out... And the rest, well… the rest was history, wasn’t it? “Mmm… Trixie?” Twilight murmured sleepily, and it was all Trixie could do not to giggle. Her voice had no business being that adorable. “Just relax, My Light,” Trixie whispered playfully, kissing along Twilight’s silken fur, “I’ll wake you up… properly.” “Wha… w-what do you… oh!” “Hehehe!” ********************** Several- fun filled- hours later, the airship had landed at a tall, green-black spire, jutting out from the thick canopy of the southern jungles. Contrary to Trixie’s hopes, however, it was not their destination. Indeed, the actual hive was several miles through the jungle, accessible only with the information of the scout drones stationed at the landing zone. “You have to be kidding me!” Trixie had snapped at the poor guard who had relayed the news, visibly trembling in rage, “First we ride on that giant floating death-trap for days on end. Then, we FINALLY land, and have to walk in this goddess forsaken heat to-” Pop! Trixie blinked in surprise at the sudden silence that interrupted her completely justified rant, glancing down at her muzzle. A soft purple glow surrounded her muzzle, and a certain purple alicorn was smirking over at her, one eyebrow arched. Ugh. Right. Be nice. Rolling her eyes dramatically, she nodded to Twilight, rubbing her muzzle as the restrictive magic dispelled. “Ahem. I mean… lead on, my dear guard. Let’s get this long and unnecessary trip over with. Quickly.” At least it got Twilight smiling, and Trixie was fairly certain she spotted her violet lover mentally tallying up her patented (pending) Twilight Points. If those helped whenever they had time alone again, weeell… Kicking a stone out of her path, the Great and Powerful Trixie took up her rightful place beside her Princess, doing her best not to glare or seem standoffish. She owed Twilight that. She owed her so much more. Trixie could only hope that this trip went by quickly, and would reward them… somehow.
Chapter 1- The Rainbow FamilyDreaming. It was one of Rainbow Dash’s favourite activities, outside of flying and having alone time with her marefriend. Heck, it was half the reason she napped so often. Dreaming… dreaming let her do so many things she couldn’t do, or wouldn’t even attempt to do, in real life. Fly-swimming beneath the ocean, riding lightning bolts through the skies and visiting all the surrounding countries, becoming the Commissioner of the Equestrian Weather Service, the Captain of the Wonderbolts… Becoming a mother. Lately… that particular dream had become more and more frequent, as of late, and often combined heavily with the others. Dream-Rainbow was always smiling, always laughing. The proud light in her eyes had faded somewhat, overshadowed by a wiser, more humble, but highly protective… fire. It was both comforting, and vaguely disconcerting. And with Dream-Rainbow, always by her side, was a little orange filly. Perched on their back as they raced across the world on a lightning bolt; tucked under a wing as they swam beneath the waves. Standing proudly beside her mother in a Wonderbolts uniform, or flying beside her as they soared through the clouds, creating the weather that kept Equestria, and many of their neighbors, alive and well. Rainbow knew why that was, and who. An all-mighty yawn rose out of the depths of the little rainbow pegasus, and a snrk responded, driving Rainbow further out of dream-world. "Good morning there, Dashie,” the gravelly, somewhat-sleepy voice teased, and Rainbow shivered as a muzzle softly caressed her neck. As always, that voice drove a massive smile out of Rainbow Dash as her eyes opened, greeted by the sight of fiery mane and a tender grin. Spitfire. Her idol, her mentor, and the love of her life. Over a year ago this coming Saturday, Spitfire had arrived in Ponyville, stunning Rainbow Dash with news of her retirement from the Wonderbolts and her interest in joining the Ponyville Weather Service. It had taken the older mare several hours just to convince the stunned mare that, no, she did not want to take over as manager, and wanted to rise up the ranks on her own. And despite being a Wonderbolt and one of the best fliers of her age, Spitfire had… taken some time to become as proficient as many of the other pegasi, when it came to weather servicing. But in hindsight… it had been that struggle that had brought the pair together in the first place. “Come on Dash, get up,” Spitfire whispered softly in her ear, a hot breath washing over the sensitive appendage, before a tongue playfully dipped at it, “It’s the Day.” Rainbow Dash’s violet eyes flew wide open, and she gave a soft mewl. The Day. They were heading to the Ponyville Social Office to finalize the adoption process on Scootaloo! With a soft groan of stiff muscles and bones, she rose to her hooves, tail waving slowly as she looked over at Spitfire with no small bit of trepidation. “T-that’s today?” she breathed, ears splaying out nervously. “Yep,” Spitfire merely replied, smiling over at her fiance with a soft chuckle bubbling out. She didn’t have to a say a word. They had long since had the talk- Rainbow thinking she’d be a terrible mother, Spitfire promptly bapping her across the ear and replying to the opposite. She knew of Rainbow’s dreams, just as Dash knew of Spitfire’s. Her dreams of a family, and of living her life with the mare she loved. Her dreams of glory with the Wonderbolts had been achieved, and now her only wish was to secure her legacy, and her love. All Spitfire had to do now was soothe Rainbow’s fears. Two wings, large and fluffy without their morning preening, slowly curled around her rainbowed companion, drawing her close and entwining with Rainbow’s primary feathers. A soft coo rose out of Rainbow’s throat, a sound Spitfire had often likened to a dove. The magic of their flight feathers was strong, and twisting them together sent a powerful rush through the pegasi. A confident chuckle rose out of her lover, and Spitfire happily leaned forward to embrace Rainbow Dash, kissing softly at the soft fur of her neck. “We can do this,” she told Dash firmly, her old Captain’s voice rising up, “We’ll get Scootaloo, and we’ll give her the family she deserves. That we both deserve.” They could. Rainbow knew that, in the bottom of her heart. With a thankful smile, Rainbow Dash leaned up to kiss Spitfire softly, her lips molding to her lover’s like they were made to fit together. She loved her taste- a mix of apples and smoke, no matter what time of day or meal last eaten. Rainbow’s, however… “Mmm. Love… brush your teeth,” Spitfire teased, barking out a laugh as a smirking Rainbow practically tossed her out of bed. An hour later, a freshly showered and fed Rainbow Dash and Spitfire, both of them proudly wearing the braids of their lovers' lost primary feathers in their manes, dived from her cloudhome, currently parked over Sweet Apple Acres, and lazily banked on the air currents that curled and flowed above Ponyville. The day was beautiful. Celestia’s sun had risen over the mountains, bathing the land beneath in gentle warmth, and the clouds the Weather Service had sent up the night before, preparing for an incoming thunderstorm in the following weeks, gave everypony a great deal of cool shade. To a pegasi’s enhanced eyes, the world of the sky was a tapestry of currents and breezes, like a painting come to life. Dash had never thought herself a deep thinker, but every time she flew, she felt that this was how the entire world should see the landscape as she did. Maybe the beauty would make it a better place… An orange blur was keeping pace with them on the ground, and a proud smile split across Rainbow’s muzzle. Scootaloo was amazing on that scooter- even if her wings were badly stunted, they could power a great deal of speed into her little machine. Once Scoots was her daughter… A little shiver ran through Rainbow’s spine. Her daughter. She was really going to have a daughter. And not any daughter, but the best damn daughter in all Ponyville. Scootaloo WAS the best. She may not be smart like Sweetie Belle and Twilight, but she was one of the better athletes amongst the foals her age, and was just as clever as Applebloom. Rainbow adored the little filly, as did Spitfire. She grinned over at her lover, who had spotted the blur as well, and was grinning just as broadly. Spitfire and Scootaloo had hit it off famously since day one, when Scootaloo had challenged, and beaten, Spitfire in a hoof-race. Terrified she may have offended Spitfire, Scootaloo had spun around at the finish line, only to be tackled and ferociously noogied under the uproarious laughter of Spitfire and Rainbow Dash. They had practically been inseparable since, much to Rainbow’s relief. “You ready?” she called out to Spitfire, nodding at Spitfire’s responding wink and dive, and quickly followed after her. What awaited the pair was shocking; all of her friends stood in front of the Social Office. Twilight and her- goddesses this still stunned Rainbow- marefriend Trixie stood off to one side, a bright smile radiating off the faces of Rainbow’s best friend and her... ex-nemesis? Applejack stood near the back, smirking widely over at her top “rival.” Rainbow merely winked over at, pulling a chuckle from the farmer pony. Rarity and Fluttershy were both holding back tears; the buttery pegasus had a wing draped over marefriend, and Rarity was gently leaned against Fluttershy, to take the weight of her pregnant belly off her swollen hooves. And Pinkie Pie… was… Rainbow sighed, “Pinkie party?” The whole group merely smirked, and Rainbow suppressed a groan. It was going to be a long night after this. But totally worth it. A tiny muzzle gently pressed against Rainbow’s side, a slight tremor running through it, and Rainbow’s wing extended down to embrace Scootaloo to her side tightly. Scootaloo’s tiny primary feathers twisted into Rainbow’s, and a little sniffle rose out of the filly. “R-rainbow Dash… y-you don’t… have to, I-I mean…” “Hey now, what about me?” Spitfire’s chuckle was punctuated by her own wing joining the embrace, wrapping their soon-to-be daughter in feathery warmth. “We’re doing this together, Scoots,” she continued, leaning down to nuzzle along Scootaloo’s violet mane and ear, “All three of us.” Inspired, Rainbow gently leaned down, using a hoof to turn Scootaloo’s face around. The poor filly looked torn between utter happiness, and complete fear. Her violet eyes were rolling in emotion, and Rainbow recognized it well. The fear of failure, the fear of disappointment and rejection. With a soft smile, Rainbow leaned forward to gently kiss the bridge of her nose, then stared sternly in Scootaloo’s eyes. “Three of us, together, always.” Scootaloo gulped, neck bowing in a nod, then turning to peek at Spitfire. The former Wonderbolts captain was far more direct; a fetlock hooked around Scootaloo, and she squealed as a hoof ruffled and noogied her little head. “Okay, okay!” she yelped out, giggles matching those of the crowd around her, doubts finally dying in her eyes. Satisfied, if nervous, but with a smile on all their faces, the trio walked into the Office, ready to begin their life as a family. Forever.
Chapter 2- Musical Hope “Octavia… sh-she… she’s beautiful…” The sheer wonder and adoration in the DJ mare’s voice soothed all the tension and worry that had built up in Octavia’s body since she stepped off the train from Manehatten to Canterlot. Vinyl Scratch’s ruby eyes, unrestricted from their glass barriers, were wide in delight, staring at every inch of the little filly on the photo. With a relieved sigh, Octavia set a small booklet on their worn coffee table. “She made this for us,” she whispered to Vinyl, smiling warmly down at the little gift, “Short stories, drawings, even a musical score… the Manehatten Orphanage had enrolled Firelight in one of their musical programs, even at her young age!” Vinyl blinked at her marefriend in surprise, then grinned again at the photo, a gleam of pride lighting her eyes. “The creatives will rule all, Tavi!” she cackled out, horn gleaming for a moment before a subtle backbeat began to play from her gear, stashed away in one corner. Octavia couldn’t make herself roll her eyes and play the game today. She was too busy wiping at her eyes, relieved to see the familiar energy and zest for life in the mare she loved. The past few months had been difficult on both of them; an attempt to use a spell to have Vinyl conceive between them had ended in a miscarriage, along with a powerfully depressing diagnosis from their attending doctor: Octavia was completely barren, and Vinyl suffered from a genetic disorder that made any pregnancy incredibly risky, and unlikely to end in a healthy birth. The self-loathing and horror in Vinyl’s eyes that day had given Octavia nightmares for weeks after, and both had neglected their music for some time, in their melancholy. It had been a simple flier that had changed that. Head bowed and simply trying to gather food from the local market to keep herself and Vinyl going, Octavia had been hit full in the face by a flier on the breeze. Scowling and snarling, she had ripped it off, trying to summon some kind of anger-eye-beam to burn it apart, only to notice the cover. Support the Orphans of Equestria! Young ponies looking for pen pals and families. No cash donation is required. Give them a chance. The flier was simple, made of a soft blue paper with a grey border and stamped with the approval of the Lunar Social Directive, but it had been a life-changer for the two mares. Vinyl had been understandably hesitant to sign up for the program at first, but Octavia had been insistent. She wasn’t sure why, but the flier had infused her with a desire to finally kick the slump they had been in, and perhaps it could even lead to… bigger and better things. “Did she like the CD?” Vinyl asked Octavia softly, gazing up at her with a small mix of fear and anticipation. “She played it the entire time I was there,” Octavia teased, leaning over to give her ear an affectionate kiss, “The whole building was shaking.” Vinyl’s answering grin was blinding. Firelight had been sucking up any amount of music from her pen pals that she possibly could, and when Vinyl and Octavia had read in one of their letters that the young filly had been spending her own money to get the music, they had instantly sent every recorded piece straight to her, free of charge. The answering letter had been stained with many happy tears. Craning her neck a bit, Octavia smiled fondly down at the photo Vinyl was stroking with a hoof. The little filly was beautiful. With a slicked and spiky mane of blue undertones and fiery points, and a mane of soft grey, she had a blinding little smile and a pair of bright, eager blue eyes, and her wings were spread wing, revealing grey feathers with the tips edged in blue and fire red. In the picture, she sported a set of blue glasses on her head, and a little blue bowtie, both gifts from her pen pals. Her cutie mark, a sixteenth note spiraling with blue and red, was just visible on her flank. A few tear drops fell on the photo, and Octavia jerked back in surprise, feeling the wetness staining her muzzle. She sheepishly glanced over Vinyl, who sported the same tell-tale marks. “We can’t bring her to Canterlot, can we Tavi?” A wince ran through Octavia as she stood on her hind legs at the kitchen counter, and Vinyl sighed softly at the nonverbal answer. She had expected it, really. They had known, even during the pregnancy attempt, that coming out as a fillyfooler couple with a family would not be taken well by the more conservative ponies of Canterlot. She had done some research into the Equestrian adoption policies and found that it tended to rely more on city ordinance than royal law. And from what she had found during the trip to the City Hall… “No, Vinyl, we couldn’t,” Octavia replied quietly, sitting back on her haunches and reaching up to rub her eyes, “I talked to the headmaster while I was there.” Vinyl was already up and moving while Octavia spoke, wrapping her forelegs around her earth pony lover and nuzzling into the soft mass of her mane. It smelled of vanilla and wood polish, as usual. “He said we would have to have a residence or plan to have one in a short amount of time before he would allow the transfer and adoption. And the Canterlot City Council had disallowed the transfer to… our kind of couples, several years ago. We would have to move.” “ ‘kay. Where to?” The suddenness of the reply seemed to surprise both of them, but Vinyl quickly squelched her own, steeling herself. Navigating the tricky club scene all her life, Vinyl Scratch had long since learned to trust her instincts, and at that moment, every point of her heart, soul, and mind were practically screaming at her to push forward at this with all her might. Firelight called to her. That little filly needed a family. She was a happy-go-lucky little mare, but even notoriously “overlook everything” Vinyl Scratch could see the want, the desperate need for love she exuded in every letter and phone call. And if she couldn’t have her own child naturally, well… “A-are you sure, Vinyl?” Octavia asked her slowly, biting her lip, “You’ll be giving up the Canterlot club-” A marshmellowy hoof gently settled over Octavia’s lips, and Vinyl smiled softly as tears rose to her ruby eyes. “I’d give up everything to make our family whole, Tavs.” ********************** Vinyl Scratch and Octavia Philharmonica both smiled sunnily as they stepped off the train from Ponyville; Vinyl had a stuffed backpack on her withers, while Octavia had a briefcase tied amongst her saddlebags. She wore a soft grey dress and a grey-pink scarf, while Vinyl had taken the opportunity at Ponyville to get a new black-blue suit from Rarity’s boutique. The trip to the little town had gone very well. Ponyville had struck down any anti-fillyfooler laws it had in place decades ago, and Mayor Mare and Princess Twilight had been more than welcoming when the two mares had asked about quickly moving to the small village. They had arranged to buy a cottage by Sweet Apple Acres, and a group of delivery ponies from the Royal Equestrian Mail Service would be picking up their belongings from Canterlot. All they had to do now… was get Firelight. The Manehatten train station was packed, but Celestia help you if you stood in the way of the two well-dressed mares. Vinyl’s magic, more than a few times, yanked too-slow ponies out of the way as they cantered through the mess briskly. The streets were no less congested, but they would not be slowed. This meant too much to both mares, and Firelight… Firelight was waiting. The orphanage was a massive brick building, towering over the apartments on either side. It was made in the old Celestial style, and was certainly inspiring… sadness-inspiring. To Vinyl, it looked far too much like a prison, not a place for children. The nervous mares exchanged glances. Octavia’s eyes were filled with anticipation and nervousness, and a shaky smile split her muzzle. Vinyl’s eyes held more in the line of self-deprecation, but Octavia’s smile banished the melancholy thoughts, and the bright, playful eyes of her DJ side began to show. With a set of dual nods, they trotted inside. Firelight was curled tightly in her little bunk near the back of the sleeping dorm, her face buried in the grey scarf Miss Octavia had left for her. It was soft, and had just the faintest scent of vanilla to it. She had scented the same when Octavia had given her a hug, and now… she just wanted her back. Her smile had lit up Firelight’s soul, and she could already feel the beginnings of a song forming in the back of her mind. Maybe a violin piece, or something with some ponies singing in the background… She winced as she heard the door to the dorm-barracks opened, and she curled further into herself, wings wrapping tightly until she was just a ball of fur and feathers around a strip of cotton and silk. Just go away, she prayed. She wanted to be alone, and try not to think of how lonely this all was. Firelight held no major hopes that this would lead to anything. Twister and Fast Flight had both been in contact with possible families for months, until the letters had stopped coming, and they never visited… As amazing as the gifts were, and the visit, Firelight knew that Miss Octavia and the awesome DJ probably would find a better foal in one of the other orphanages around Equestria. There had to- “Firelight?” The world stopped. “M… m-miss Octavia?” Firelight breathed, uncurling and kicking her legs frantically, whining as her wings refused to get around in place. No, no, she was looking like an idiot! Quickly tearing eyes turned to look down from her perch on the bunk. It WAS Miss Octavia, /and/ Vinyl Scratch. They were both dressed in their Sunday best, and were smirking up at her. Her eyes closed quickly, emotions rolling around in her little heart. Why did they have to come then? Yes, she had wanted them to, but she was about to burst into tears, and that was just foalish not- A warm, gentle grip lifted Firelight from the bed, and her eyes opened in surprise. The aura, a mix of blue and grey, hung around her body like a warm mist, and drew her down into the waiting arms of both mares. Up close, the little pegasus could see that the smirks were more like adoring smiles, and neither of the older mares had a dry eye. Vinyl embraced her tightly, and Firelight’s muzzle pressed against her mane. It was sharper, with a soft chemical scent that was surprisingly reassuring; strength, maybe. Glancing around after a moment, Firelight noted with some surprise that all of her things had been settled into a set of saddlebags and suitcases at the foot of the beds. Then it hit her with all the strength and subtlety of a speeding freight train. She peered at first Vinyl, then Octavia, hope growing with each reassuring smile that was given to her. The tearful cheer and sobs could be heard all the way outside, and all those outside could smile. A new family had been made.
Chapter 3- New BeginningsFirelight bobbed her head slowly to Vinyl’s music, one earbud slid into an ear, while the other hung loosely, her ear stretched to catch any snippet of conversation from her… her moms. For the tenth time, the little pegasus gave a small sob, and blushed when Octavia drew her closer to her side. She just couldn’t believe it. She… Firelight… the tiny little mare with weird feathers… had Octavia Philharmonica and Vinyl Scratch as her parents. The best musical mares in… goddesses, all of Equis, probably, were taking her in as a daughter. The second they had left the orphanage, Vinyl had immediately taken a grinning Octavia and a thunderstruck Firelight down to a nearby clothing store. They had left with wide smiles and many tears, with Firelight dressed down in a slim, white leather jacket, her scarf wrapped around her neck, and new horseshoes to replace her battered old ones. It was utterly perfect. “Whatcha listenin’ to, kiddo?” Vinyl asked warmly, horn glowing as a soft swipe of magic removed the tears on Firelight’s cheeks. “You, of course,” she replied instantly, blushing, “Spin to Live.” Octavia blinked, smiling softly as she nodded in agreement, “Oooh, I like that one… ...didn’t you play that one at Luna’s birthday bash?” “Y-YOU PLAYED FOR THE PRINCESS!? THAT’S AWESOME!” Firelight squealed, eyes gazing at Vinyl in utter awe. Vinyl smirked, holding up a hoof to forestall the questions as she turned to look back at a group of angry passengers that had begun to stalk up the aisle. Vinyl’s glasses rose up for a moment and, though Firelight couldn’t see exactly what happened, something in Vinyl’s gaze had each of the passengers darting back to their seats in an instant. Smirk still well in place, Vinyl Scratch turned back around, ruffling a sheepish filly’s ears with a soft hoof. “We both have, actually. Octavia here has played at the Gala, and Celestia’s birthday party last year.” Octavia, coughing politely and gazing down at her hooves sheepishly, couldn’t help but giggle as Firelight nuzzled into her side. “W-what are they like?” The two older mares exchanged glances, smiling fondly in remembrance. “Heavenly.” “Buckin’ fun. ...what?” *************************** “Holy Celestia,” Firelight breathed, muzzle smooshed against the window as the train pulled into Ponyville Station. The little town was practically stolen from the back of a magazine on Amazing Places to Live. Thatched cottages were settled in neat rows, many of them sporting cozy gardens and benches out in front. The center of the town was taken up the Mayor’s Pavilion, and a few dozen little shops, many of them built to certain themes. Heck, there was a cupcake themed building of all things! Oh goddess, the amount of sugar that had to be in that building alone… “T-this is home?” she breathed, prying her gaze away and back to her new parents. Octavia was practically beaming as she looked between Firelight and the view of Ponyville, eyes misting over at the overwhelming emotion building in her heart. “Yep,” Vinyl answered quickly, tugging Firelight over for a firm group hug before Octavia could start bawling openly in the fairly crowded train car, “It’s called Ponyville. Small place, but I think you’ll love it, kiddo.” Firelight gave a soft meep in the center of the fuzzy hug, trying to spread her wings to show her excitement, “I-I do love it! I really do!” She glanced back at the town as it grew in size, and the little filly’s ears lowered slowly as errant thoughts cascaded through her mind. Hopefully, Ponyville would love her back… ******************* What in the name of the Celestial Sisters had Trixie been thinking? The Great and Highly Airsick Trixie groaned as she leaned her head outside the window of her and Twilight’s stateroom, struggling to keep last night’s dinner down in its proper place. There was a reason she always walked where she went. Motion sickness was a Lulamoon curse, sadly. It had already ruined a potential romantic cruise she had tried to spring on her fiance, then-marefriend. Cursed retching had hit just seconds after her proposal. Total moodkiller. And now they were on a packed diplomatic airship, bound for the southern jungles, past the Badlands. Practically the most unromantic thing ever, with motion sickness, and Trixie should… she… Over on the single bed she and Twilight shared, her violet lover had twisted the blankets around herself in a fairly risque fashion, mane fluffed up from her wiggling, twitching sleep movements. Her broad wings had slid through the sheets, twitching slightly in her sleep. Sickness forgotten, Trixie smiled lovingly down the purple alicorn, carefully trotting over and sliding atop her barrel, entwining her forelegs around Twilight’s back. Twilight was… soft. Not fat! Not by any stretch of the imagination. But years of junk food and study had given her soft curves and amazing flanks, and it made cuddling with the librarian Princess a comfortable affair. Trixie’s own body was far more lithe, and a tad bonier than her fiance’s, due to a lifetime of small meals and heavy cart pulling. She could practically mold herself against Twilight. Laying her ear on Twilight’s chest, Trixie closed her eyes, smiling dreamily as she lost herself in the sound of her love’s heartbeat. Strong. Powerful, like the Princess she adored. Trixie knew that she was lucky. She was an egotistical jerk. It was about of her charm! Just… few found it charming. Even Twilight hadn’t, not at first. It had taken two attempts to destroy Twilight in order for either of them to see past the masks they wore. They had met on the outskirts of Ponyville, away from the angry horde of villagers and Twilight’s overprotective friends. Raw emotions had played out, there may have been shouting… slapping… ...making out... And the rest, well… the rest was history, wasn’t it? “Mmm… Trixie?” Twilight murmured sleepily, and it was all Trixie could do not to giggle. Her voice had no business being that adorable. “Just relax, My Light,” Trixie whispered playfully, kissing along Twilight’s silken fur, “I’ll wake you up… properly.” “Wha… w-what do you… oh!” “Hehehe!” ********************** Several- fun filled- hours later, the airship had landed at a tall, green-black spire, jutting out from the thick canopy of the southern jungles. Contrary to Trixie’s hopes, however, it was not their destination. Indeed, the actual hive was several miles through the jungle, accessible only with the information of the scout drones stationed at the landing zone. “You have to be kidding me!” Trixie had snapped at the poor guard who had relayed the news, visibly trembling in rage, “First we ride on that giant floating death-trap for days on end. Then, we FINALLY land, and have to walk in this goddess forsaken heat to-” Pop! Trixie blinked in surprise at the sudden silence that interrupted her completely justified rant, glancing down at her muzzle. A soft purple glow surrounded her muzzle, and a certain purple alicorn was smirking over at her, one eyebrow arched. Ugh. Right. Be nice. Rolling her eyes dramatically, she nodded to Twilight, rubbing her muzzle as the restrictive magic dispelled. “Ahem. I mean… lead on, my dear guard. Let’s get this long and unnecessary trip over with. Quickly.” At least it got Twilight smiling, and Trixie was fairly certain she spotted her violet lover mentally tallying up her patented (pending) Twilight Points. If those helped whenever they had time alone again, weeell… Kicking a stone out of her path, the Great and Powerful Trixie took up her rightful place beside her Princess, doing her best not to glare or seem standoffish. She owed Twilight that. She owed her so much more. Trixie could only hope that this trip went by quickly, and would reward them… somehow.
