Luna the Matchmaker

Chapters

Sometimes You Just Need a Nudge
Cutie Mark Crusader Date Spying! YAY!
Nightmares and Broken Wings
Wings of Light and Magic
Unexpected Developments
Shadows of Things to Come
Fear, Love, and Loathing in Equestria
Paper Hearts
Not All Tears Are Sad
Departure
When I look At You
Let the Meddling Begin!

Sometimes You Just Need a Nudge

Luna the Matchmaker
Chapter 2 "Sometimes You Just Need a Nudge.
By Steven Little
My little pony © Hasbro

The summer sun rose over Ponyville through a cloudless blue sky. The early light beamed through the window of Princess Luna's bedroom at the Carousel Boutique. With the sun in her face again, the Princess slowly woke up from the wonderful dream she was having. Stretching lazily, she reached over to the other side of the bed, sat up swiftly, and gazed at the empty spot next to her. "I guess it really was a dream." She spoke softly to herself.

Luna sighed and smiled. 'But what a dream!' She thought. Now that it was light, the Princess could see her environment better. Luna was used to much larger rooms. To tell the truth, she had closets that were larger than Spike and Rarity's guest room but even given its small size, Luna liked it. The room felt warm and cozy; it felt lived in. The angle of the room's walls formed a wedge shape with a long curving exterior wall at the back. The bed was big enough for her but only just. A nightstand stood at either side at the head of the bed. She looked over to the clock hanging on the wall.

"For the love of muffins," she swore quietly. Using her alicorn magic of astral projection, she centered her thoughts on where her sister was flying at the moment. "Tia! It's five in the morning. Did you have to raise the sun so early?"

"Oh hello Lulu, I didn't realize you were awake." Celestia said with a smirk.

"I wasn't. You interrupted one of my favorite dreams." Luna pouted. "And stop calling me Lulu! You know how much I hate that."

"Sister dear, I'd love to stay and talk to you but as you can see, I'm quite busy performing my duties and yours, ta ta." Luna realized that Celestia had overpowered her projection when she found herself back in the guestroom.

'Damn that Celestia.' She thought to herself. 'Well, seeing as I'm already awake, I might as well get started.' Luna walked out into the family room to find Sweetie Belle reading on one of the sofas.

"Good morning Princess." She said.

"Good Morning Sweetie Belle, what are you reading there?" Luna asked her. The small unicorn lifted the book so that the Princess could read the cover. "A Treatise on Magical Shields and Levitation, isn't that a little advanced for you?"

"Twilight said if I want to get better at magic I need to study. She lent me this book to help me but I don't understand some of it." Sweetie Belle admitted.

"Perhaps you should ask Twilight to tutor you as well. Study can only take you so far without practical application. She can also help you with some of those topics you don't understand."

"Do you think she will?" She asked.

"Twilight is devoted to the study of friendship and magic. I'm sure she'd relish the chance to share that knowledge with another." Luna hesitated. "Sweetie Belle, can I talk to you for a moment about your friend Scootaloo?"

"Sure. She's not in trouble or anything is she?"

Luna sat on the sofa next to the unicorn. "No, nothing like that; I'm just curious. Have you ever met her parents?"

Sweetie Belle though for a moment, "No, come to think of it, I never have. I remember she told me and Apple Bloom once that her parents are always busy and don't like visitors."

"So you know where she lives?" The young filly nodded her head. Luna considered her options quickly. "Sweetie Belle, I need you to go on a mission for me."

"Sure thing Princess!" She said enthusiastically, jumping up from her prone position on the couch. "Let me get Apple Bloom and we can get started."

"No Sweetie Belle, this is a mission just for you. I want you to follow your friend home, observe her with her parents, then report back to me with your findings." Luna requested. "I'm afraid you friend might be in some trouble but I do not want to act without more information. Observe but do not intervene, no matter what you might see. That's why I only want you there; Apple Bloom's a good filly but she's headstrong and may act recklessly if her friend is in trouble. Do you understand?"

"Yes Princess. I'm to watch and do nothing else, report back to you what I see."

"Excellent. I have a few things to take care of today. Please let Spike and Rarity know that I'll return later today, and don't worry about your friend. If I can help at all, I will." Luna walked into the kitchen and opened the sliding glass door that opened up to a second floor veranda that ran along the outside of the Boutique. She spread her wings, stretching the stiffness from them and took flight. She circled the Boutique once then headed south toward the floating cloud home of a certain pegasus.

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Rainbow Dash's home was large and quite impressive. To say the cloud structure, with its many columns and rainbow waterfalls, was beautiful would be an understatement. Many ponies would not think a pony like Rainbow Dash would live in a place like this but given her grandiose attitude, it fit her perfectly. The cyan pegasus was disturbed from her slumber by a loud knocking on her front door. Grumbling, she dragged herself out of bed and made her way downstairs. The knock came again. "Yeah I 'm coming!" She shouted. "Whoever you are, you'd better have a bucking good reason to wake me up so early!" Rainbow flung the door wide open and at that moment she wanted nothing more than to curl up and die. "P- P- Princess Luna!"

"Good morning Rainbow Dash."

Rainbow bowed as low as she could go. "I'm so sorry Princess."

Luna chuckled. "It's okay Rainbow Dash. Please rise and in the future I would appreciate it if you would just refer to me as Luna. Honestly, I really do dislike all the scraping and bowing. I just want to be treated like everypony else."

Rainbow stood up unsure of what to say next. "Would you like to come in?"

"Unfortunately I do not have much free time today. Rainbow Dash, I need your help with a matter of great importance in Appleoosa. I have a task I need to perform there and I feel you are the best suited to assist me."

"Appleoosa, what's going on way out there, the buffalo's and the ponies aren't getting into it again are they? I thought we settled all that the last time we were there." Rainbow scratched the back of her head. "Have you talked to Strong Heart? I'm sure if there's a problem she'd help smooth things out."

"No, no it's nothing like that. You and Applejack are very close friends and I can't ask her to go with me, her pride would prevent it. I need you to come with me because you know the troubles her farm's had in the past. Problems your friend would never admit to."

"Yeah, AJ can be pretty stubborn sometimes. Let me just grab my bag and we can get going." She said.

"That will not be necessary." Luna hugged Rainbow close to her, wrapping her wings around the cyan colored pegasus. Rainbow Dash blushed. She was uncomfortable being this close to another mare. Luna's horn began to glow and everything went black. In what seemed like seconds the blackness was replaced by blinding light. Luna released her hold on the mare and giggled as Rainbow Dash staggered around a bit.

"What was that?" The cyan pony asked.

"Sorry. Teleportation over long distances can be a little disorienting for some ponies. I'm just hoping you don't get sick." Luna said.

Rainbow Dash shook her head, trying to clear the stars from her vision. "I didn't have breakfast this morning, probably a good thing too. Wow, I've seen Twilight teleport from time to time but never anything too far and never with anypony else."

Luna smiled at the mention of Twilight's name. "With practice and time, Twilight should be able to do it as well. Now let's see, the pony we're after is a stallion named Braeburn. He should be around here somewhere." Rainbow Dash looked around realizing that they were now just outside of Appleoosa city limits.

"I remember that guy. Really high strung. He kind of reminds me of Pinkie Pie. If he's like the rest of the Apple family, he's been up for hours and most likely out in their orchard." Rainbow Dash said. "Let's see, there's the sheriff's office, and there's the Salt Lick. If I remember right, all we have to do is fly west of the saloon; the orchard should be just outside of town just on the other side of that ridge." Both ponies took off into the air headed toward the far ridge.

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After a short flight, they sighted the orchard. Rainbow Dash was the first to spot him. "There he is Luna, just to the left of the road, up ahead." The pegasus pointed to an amber colored earth pony with a golden mane and a single red apple for a cutie mark. He wore a tan vest and a brown stetson hat that shaded his light green eyes.

The cyan blue pegasus landed right in front of him. "Howdy Rainbow Dash, it sure has been a long time since we saw you around these parts. Is my cousin with you, or maybe Pinkie Pie?" Braeburn asked. "She sure was a lot of fun."

"Sorry Braeburn. Pinkie and Applejack aren't with me but I did bring somepony else that wanted to talk to you." Rainbow said, pointing behind him. Braeburn turned around to find Princess Luna.

"Princess!" Braeburn threw himself down prostrate before her.

Luna sighed as Rainbow Dash knelt down and whispered in his ear. "Braeburn, you might want to stand up. Princess Luna's not a big fan of ceremony."

Braeburn righted himself smiling. "Sorry about that. What brings you so far from Canterlot? Was there something I can do you for?"

"Braeburn. This may seem a little strange but I need you to do a personal favor for me."

"Anything for you Princess Luna; you just ask and I'll be right there."

"I need you to move to Ponyville." Luna said. "I know what I ask is not an easy thing and this is not something I ask lightly but you are badly needed back in Ponyville. Know that I would not be requesting this favor of you if it were not vitally important."

The look of shock on Braeburn's face spoke volumes. "But Appleoosa's my home. Why would you want me to leave?"

"Have you ever seen your cousin's farm?" Luna asked. "Sweet Apple Acres is enormous. Her crops not only feed all of Ponyville but most of the surrounding area, including Canterlot. I personally can't start my day unless I've had one of Applejack's apples."

"That's a right kind thing to say about my cousin's farm but I don't know what that has to do with me."

"Applejack wouldn't tell you but the whole farm is run by her, Big Macintosh, and a hired hoof. Their Grandmother is far too old and Applejack's little sister isn't old enough to properly do the job. Essentially, three ponies are working themselves to the bone to keep that massive farm running. They need help and an experienced farmer like you is exactly what they need. Isn't that right Rainbow Dash?"

"She's right." Dash said as she sat down next to the amber stallion. "Braeburn, Applejack is probably going to yell at me for telling you this but about five years ago Big Macintosh got hurt. It was harvest time and Caramel; their hired hoof, was out of town visiting with friends. Even her sister, Apple Bloom was away at camp. Applejack was all by herself and tried to harvest all the apples alone. There were shortages all over the place. Applejack is a great friend but you know how stubborn she can be. She wouldn't accept help form anypony but family and even then you'd practically have to force her. This orchard is tiny compared to what we have in Ponyville. I'm not trying to be mean or anything but there's a lot of ponies here to tend the trees and crops and help them grow. We need you in Ponyville."

"I don't know Rainbow Dash." Braeburn sat back trying to think. "I helped build this town up from nothing and I'm right proud of it. It's hard to just up and leave." The amber stallion looked around at the other ponies tending the orchard, many like him, came here with their parents to help build the town. "I've also been waiting, hoping a certain pony would show up again. Somepony I have some unfinished business with."

"Care to explain?" Luna asked, curious.

"It's nothin' for you to worry yourself about Princess. He hasn't shown his face in these parts for years. I've started doubting if he'd ever come back."

"Braeburn, whatever business you have with this stallion, I'm sure you can handle it." Rainbow Dash said. "I know you're proud of this town and normally we wouldn't ask you to leave but Applejack needs you, even if she won't admit it. And Braeburn, you won't just be helping out Ponyville; Pinkie Pie will be there too." Rainbow said smiling. "I know you like her and she's missed you a lot as well."

Braeburn smiled. "Really, she missed me?"

"From what I've been told she's is constantly trying to find the means to come visit you. Unfortunately the Cakes have been so busy with their children, it's been up to Pinkie to run most things at the shop." Luna informed him.

"I want to help Princes, I really do but still, I don't know. This isn't an easy decision." He said.

"Please Braeburn?" Princess Luna's ears had dropped and her lower lip began to quiver. She looked at Braeburn with the saddest look he'd ever seen. Her eyes were beginning to water.

The amber colored stallion couldn't take that look for long and inevitably gave in. "Okay okay, I'll go Princess Luna. I'll go. I don't usually have a lot of stuff so I can be on the train tonight and be in Ponyville in two days. Would that be soon enough?"

Luna sat up straight, smiled, and hugged the amber pony. "Yes Braeburn, that would be perfect." Luna released the blushing stallion. "We'll go tell Applejack to expect you in two days. Don't be late now." Luna beckoned Rainbow Dash to follow her and they both took off into the air.

"Well, this is gonna' make Pinkie Pie happy." Rainbow commented.

"That was one of the reasons I picked Braeburn to come to Ponyville and not another member of the Apple Family. I was also made aware that Pinkie is rather infatuated with him. He's a good match for Pinkie and with any luck he'll mellow her out a bit."

"I know what you mean. I like Pinkie and all but sometimes I worry about that mare. Did you read the letter Twilight sent about her birthday five years ago? Talk about creepy town."

"Yes. I read of your account as well. It's disturbing to say the least. Has she ever done anything like that before?" Luna asked.

"I've known Pinkie or a long time, ever since she moved to Ponyville. I've seen her sad like that more than a few times. I mean she's never hurt anypony and she usually locks herself in her room when she gets like that, but there are times I'm afraid she would hurt herself. Those are the times I stay with her." Rainbow Dash explained.

"Is that often?" Luna asked her as they flew.

"Every April fourth; it's the day her grandma passed away. Pinkie has never really gotten over it, her grandma was very special to her." Rainbow Dash informed her.

"With any luck, Braeburn will be able to even out her mood swings though, I would appreciate it if you'd let him know how Pinkie gets at that time of the year." Luna commented. "You've had the most experience with it and if something does develop between the two of them, I think it only fair to prepare him for it."

"I'll keep an eye on things, don't you worry. Was that what you needed me for Luna?" She asked.

"Yes Rainbow Dash and you played your part perfectly." Luna moved a little closer to Rainbow and brushed the tip of her right wing against the tip of Rainbows left. The cyan pegasus veered away and landed on top of a nearby mesa. Princess Luna circled around and landed next to her. "Is something the matter?"

"Uh Luna. I don't really know how to say this." She said, scratching the back of her head with a hoof. "I'm flattered and all but I don't like mares like that."

"What are you talking about Rainbow Dash?" Luna asked her.

"You brushed the tips of my wing feathers with yours."

"Yes, it's always been a sign of gratitude among pegasi. I saw no harm in it." Luna covered her mouth with her hooves. "Oh no, please tell me the meaning of that gesture hasn't changed since I've been gone."

"It's okay Luna. I forget that you're still catching up on how things have changed. It has been a thousand years after all. Some things are bound to change in all that time." She said. "Today, when one pegasus does that to another, it's a sign of, how should I say this, romantic interest. I don't mean to say you're a fillyfooler or anything."

"Oh muffin, I'm sorry Rainbow I'd never flirt with you! Not that you aren't attractive or anything but I know there's somepony that you're after."

"Thank you, I think. Wait, how did you know?" The cyan pegasus asked, a little shocked.

"I have my ways, I am a Princess after all. I have, shall we say, informers in my employ. I want you to promise me something Rainbow Dash."

"Anything Luna."

"Don't be too afraid to go after what you want. Don't hold back and fail to achieve your dreams because you were too frightened of rejection. Don't, don't be like me." Luna advised hanging her head in depression.

"Like you, what do you mean?" Luna reached into her mane and brought out her locket. "Hey, that looks like the locket Twilight has. She tries to hide it but doesn't do that good of a job."

"My mother made this locket many many years ago." She said solemnly. "Celestia gave it to me the same day you and your friends freed me from Nightmare Moon. She told me that mother always meant for me to have it. Celestia said that when I discover my true love, the locket would open and a little over a year ago it did." Luna held the locket out for Rainbow to inspect.

Unfastening the clasp, the locket opened revealing an engraved picture of Twilight Sparkle. "Twilight? You, you really are a fillyfooler?"

"As much as I detest that description, yes, I like mares. Stallions have never really done anything for me and believe me, after fifteen hundred years, I'm more than sure what my preference is."

"I'm sorry Princess, I didn't mean to insinuate there was anything wrong with being a filly, er, I mean, uhm, being like that. I have a couple of friends in Ponyville who are that way; they've been married for years now. Lyra and Bonbon are cool."

"Yes, I remember reading about them in one of Twilight's reports from about two years ago."

"So, how long have you known? I mean, when did you know you liked Twilight?" Rainbow Dash asked.

"I always have." Luna admitted. "Ever since the first time I saw her. I didn't know it at the time but looking back on everything now, I know it to be true." The Princess saw the confused expression of the pegasi's face. "Perhaps I should start at the beginning. Out of curiosity and a nagging feeling of an unfamiliar emptiness, I asked Celestia to let me read the regular reports Twilight and the rest of you sent her. I saw how happy the letters made her and was hopping they would cheer me up as well. Also, I sort of wanted to get to know all of you a little better but was too shy at the time to talk to you directly. That one Nightmare Night a year later helped me a lot but even then, I was uncomfortable talking to the six of you. I guess that's one of the reasons I acted the way I did."

"From what I saw, you didn't seem to have a problem talking to Twilight." Rainbow said with a smile.

"Yes." The Princess said, blushing. "Even then I still didn't fully understand what I was feeling. Then, four years later, when you and your friends came up to Canterlot to help Spike, I avoided most of you but Twilight in particular."

"Yeah, I kind of noticed that. I thought you were just worried about Spike and Rarity but then I saw you walk the other way whenever you saw Twilight." Rainbow said.

"I admired her. I admired all of you. Your courage, your determination, and your drive to do whatever was necessary to help the ones you cared about. You may not know this, but each of you has had a profound impact on me. It was all of you that saved me from Nightmare Moon, but it was Twilight Sparkle who focused the Elements of Harmony. She directed its magic. She could have destroyed Nightmare Moon and me with her. It would have been easier to simply destroy us or send us back to the moon but she didn't. Instead she dug into the nightmare and found me."

"That's the way Twilight is." Dash said. "She wouldn't give up on anypony. No matter how bad things get, she'll do whatever she can to help. She'll never quit on anypony."

A tear rolled down Luna's cheek. "She saved me Rainbow Dash. Twilight fought her way past the shadows and the darkness to where I was hidden away. She used the Elements to free me. Not even Celestia was able to do that." Luna said, choking back her tears. "At first I thought my feelings were little more than gratefulness. As I read each of the letters, more and more I realized that it wasn't gratitude. My dreams have become all about her. Some are sad, some are wonderful, and others are bittersweet. I wouldn't give any of them up because they all have her in common. It was at that moment I realized I loved her, I always had. When I made that realization, the locket opened and I saw what it held."

"I understand Luna." Rainbow said hugging the Princess. "I may not know if Twilight likes anypony or even if she's interested in mares but I promise I'll help you anyway I can."

Luna wiped the tears from her face. "Thank you Rainbow Dash. You've been such a big help to me already. Promise me you won't tell Twilight how I feel. It's something I need to do for myself."

"I promise." Rainbow hugged the alicorn tightly. Luna wrapped her wings around her and teleported them back into Rainbow's house.

"You get some rest Rainbow. Teleporting around can take it out of a pony. Thank you again for your help."

"No problem Luna." Rainbow Dash slowly walked back to her bed and flopped down. It was only about ten in the morning but the pegasus was exhausted.

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Luna flew over the vastness of Sweet Apple Acres. She circled the farm several times until she found the light orange mare she was looking for in one of the backfields behind the barn. "Hello Applejack." She said as she landed next to her.

"Princess Luna? What brings you around here today?" Applejack asked with a little curtsy. "Is everthin' okay"

"Everything is just fine. I realized that I needed to get out more so I decided to pay Ponyville visit."

"Well we sure are glad to have you here. Is there anythin' I can do for ya?" She asked.

"Please Applejack. I'm not one for titles. Just call me Luna. I came here for lunch, if you don't mind that is?"

"Not at all Princess." The amber mare said smiling. "I don't know what all we have fixed up at the house, but you're welcome to it."

"Actually, I've always loved your apples just as they are with nothing else to get in the way of their exquisite flavor." Luna told her.

Applejack beamed at the compliment and waved her left front hoof towards the trees. "Help yourself."

Luna pulled two apples off a nearby tree and offered one to Applejack. The amber mare gratefully accepted and the two sat happily in the grass munching away on their fruit. Finishing her apple first, Luna cleared her throat and addressed the farm pony again. "Applejack, there was one other thing I came by for. I came here to tell you that your cousin Braeburn will be here in two days to help you out around the farm."

"Why would Braeburn be comin' here? And who said we needed any help? Me, Big Macintosh, and Caramel can take care of everythin'." The Princess could tell Applejack was starting to get upset. She also noticed how the farm pony's face blushed slightly when she said Caramel's name.

"Applejack, before you get too offended I want you to know that I asked him to come here." Luna said flatly. "This farm is far too large for three ponies to handle. While I think it's too big for even four ponies, he's an experienced farmer and a member of your own family. You need the help in case one or more of you get sick or injured again."

"But."

"Do you really want to a repeat of what happened six years ago?" Luna asked.

"You know about that?" She asked ashamed.

"Yes, I know of the incident. Twilight had sent a letter to my sister asking for advice on how to handle the situation with you and the farm. I'm glad you finally came to your senses. For a while, I was worried I wouldn't be able to get my favorite apples anymore."

"No matter what, we would always keep the castle well supplied." Applejack stated proudly. "But still, I'd have the girls to help me if it ever happened again."

"And what if they can't help because they're busy with their own responsibilities or out of town? What then?"

"I see what you mean, Luna."

"I'm glad you see things my way. Now I have to ask. When I was flying over I noticed you had a worried look on your face. Is there anything I can help you with?"

"No offense Luna but it's kind of a personal matter. I don't know if I should bother you with it."

"Please, bother me. It wouldn't have anything to do with your hired hoof Caramel would it?"

"Yeah, err no! I mean, how did you know that?" Applejack said, her cheeks turned as red as the apples on her flank.

"A little helper of mine informed me of what was going on."

The light orange farm pony stomped her right fore hoof in anger. "Apple Bloom told you didn't she? When I get my hooves on that little eavesdropper she's gonna' be grounded for a month."

"Please, don't be cross with your sister, she was only trying to help. She appears to know what's going on and just wants you to be happy." Luna said.

"There aint nuthin' goin' on between me and Caramel." Applejack stated resolutely.

"But you want there to be, don't you?" Luna said. "I saw you staring at him when I landed and the way you blushed when I mentioned him pretty much confirms it. Talk to me Applejack. I may be a Princess but I'm still a mare. I know how it is when you like somepony but are having difficulties telling them how you feel."

Applejack sat next to the Princess. "I don't know what to do with him. He's cute and all, and he's a real hard worker but he's also a goof. He's managed to the lose the grass seeds every spring for the last six years. He constantly runs his apple cart into fence posts and saplings." The amber mare sighed deeply. "Lately he's been more careless than usual. He's gotten himself hurt three times this last year because he hasn't been payin' attention to his work."

"It's not really his fault he can't take his eyes off you." Luna said smiling.

"What?" Applejack asked, shocked.

"I saw him as I flew over, when he hit that root and tipped his cart. He was looking at you instead of where he was going."

"Are y'all sure about that?" Applejack asked flatly.

"Quite. I've been watching him since we started talking. He catches a quick look at you every time he thinks you can't see him. I'm guessing that's why he's so accident-prone. He's so busy trying to look at you without being caught, he bumps into everything."

"I never thought about it like that." Applejack admitted. "If he likes me that much why hasn't he ever asked me out?"

"Could it be that he's too shy? Maybe he finds you intimidating and he's scared." Luna explained. "Why don't you ask him out?"

"But Granny always said that mares shouldn't be askin' stallions out on dates. It makes them sound seedy."

Luna laughed. "Your grandmother is certainly old fashioned. If there's one thing I've learned since I've been back it's that somepony has to make the first move. If he won't, you should. Don't let a good thing pass you by Applejack."

"I don't know." She said a little uncertain. "What if you're wrong, what if he says no?"

"If he says no, than he says no. Why, if he says no, I'll buy you dinner. We'll have a girl's night out. We can get drunk and gossip all night." Luna said, smiling at the chuckling farm pony. "Would it help you to ask him if I were there? I could teleport into the tree above you quietly. He'd never know." Luna gave her a wink.

"That would sure be a comfort to know I wasn't goin' it alone. Thank you Luna, but what would I say?"

"Ask him to dinner. That's a typical first date isn't it?" She asked. "I mean it's nothing too intimate."

"No, no I think that would be fine." Applejack said.

"Good." Luna said. "But not tonight, tomorrow, give yourself and him time to prepare." Luna said smiling. The Princess was about to teleport away when both of them heard a commotion off to the left. "We should probably see what that was, it sounded pretty loud. Applejack and Princess Luna ran west to where they believed the noise was coming from only to find Big Macintosh glowering over Caramel. Both of their carts were tangled up and toppled over, apples spilled across the ground.

"Caramel, what the heck are you doin'? Didn't ya' see me there?" Big Macintosh growled at him.

"Sorry Big Mac. I guess my mind wasn't on my work."

"I know what your mind was on and I've told you before, you stay away from my sister. She's got enough on her mind without a lovesick stallion adding to her problems."

Applejack rushed over from where she and Luna were watching. "Macintosh! What do think your doin'? You have no right interferin' in my nonexistent private life." She said, raising herself up so she could look him in the eye.

"But AJ..."

"But nuthin' Macintosh." Applejack shouted angrily at her brother. "Now you go about your chores while I help Caramel get this cleaned up. Go on, git!" Macintosh walked off toward the barn in a sulk. Applejack knew he was only being protective of her but he needed to understand that she wasn't a filly anymore. "You okay there Caramel?"

"Yes, I'm fine. I'm sorry AJ, I didn't mean to cause problems." He apologized. Caramel was a well built stallion, not as big as Macintosh but by no means short. He had a long brown mane and tail with coat of sand yellow fur. His cutie mark of three horseshoes was the same color blue as his eyes. All in all Applejack found him quite handsome.

"It's okay Caramel." Pushing the carts back on their wheels, Applejack began to pick up the fallen apples. "Is it true; what Big Mac said?"

"I uh, I don't know what you're talking about. Big Mac was just talking. There's nothing to it." He reassured her.

"Caramel!" Applejack snapped at him. "You know I don't like it when ponies lie to me, even little lies. Now, tell me the truth."

"Yes. It's true."

"Why didn't you say anthin'?" She asked.

"I was afraid you'd be mad and fire me. Mac's right, you have enough to worry about without me adding to it."

Applejack rubbed the side of her head with a hoof. "Caramel, you shouldn't listen to everything my brother tells you. He can be a bit overprotective at times and sticks his nose into things that don't concern him." Applejack sat down next to the sand yellow stallion. "Listen Caramel, I was wondering, if you're not busy or anything, did you maybe want to go and get something to eat tomorrow night?"

Caramel fell over one of the harness rungs of his cart. When he got up again his brown mane was mussed from its usual neatness. Applejack thought this added to his charm. "Uhm, I don't think I heard you right. Could you maybe repeat that?"

"Caramel, I'm asking if you wanted to have dinner with me tomorrow night. Unless you don't want to, I don't want you think you're obligated or anythin' since I'm your boss and all."

"What? No, I mean yes I'd love to." Caramel fidgeted for a moment. "I don't get it though, I thought you didn't like me. You were always shouting at me."

"Oh Caramel. I just get a little perturbed when you break things or lose things. It doesn't mean I don't like you." Applejack said, swatting him with her hat. She saw Luna smile at her from the side of the barn. The light orange mare leaned in and gave Caramel a quick kiss on the cheek. Walking back to her part of the orchard, she called back to him. "I'll see you tomorrow night."

"Yeah; tomorrow." Caramel seemed frozen in place, a blush spread hot across his face.

"Good job Applejack." Luna said to herself.

===============================================================

Luna made her way back to the Carousel Boutique and let herself in. Rarity was working on a dress while little Garnet played on the floor with a roll of ribbon.

"How did it go Luna?" She inquired.

Luna was smiling. She was smiling more this day than any other in a long time. "I don't want to be premature but I think we can check Applejack off the list; only four more to go."

Sweetie Belle came charging into the shop. "Princess, thank goodness your back."

"Hello dear. How did your mission go?" Luna asked her.

"Not so good your majesty. I think Scootaloo is in a lot of trouble." The small unicorn informed her. "I followed her home like you asked and when I got there I went around back and looked through the window. The whole house is covered in dust. The kitchen was clean but from what I saw through the rest of the windows; it looks like nopony has lived there in years."

"What's going on?" Rarity asked.

"We think young Scootaloo may be in some trouble. Sweetie Belle, get Spike and then I'd like you, him and Rarity to go over there and wait for me. I need to contact somepony else about this."

"Sure thing Princess. We'll see you soon." She said.

Princess Luna flew as fast as she could toward the home of Rainbow Dash. The dark purple alicorn knocked on the door loudly. "Rainbow, I need to talk to you immediately!" She shouted up to the numerous windows.

Rainbow Dash streaked out of an upper story window and landed in front of the Princess. "Luna, what's wrong? Is everything okay?"

"I don't know but I believe there's a problem with a little orange pegasus named Scootaloo. Are you familiar with her?"

"Yeah, she's kind of a fan filly of mine and I've been helping her become a stronger flier since she says her parents never seem to have the time."

"Have you ever met her parents?" She asked.

"Yeah but it was like seven years ago. They were heading to Coltsberg that winter but then I saw Scootaloo back in town shortly after Winter Wrap Up. She said her parents took a permanent position in Canterlot but preferred to live here. To be honest I haven't seen her parents since they left that last time."

"This is getting more confusing every minute. I need you to come with me. If there is something wrong, I think the young flier will need another pegasus around, somepony she trusts." Luna explained.

Spike, Rarity, and Sweetie Belle were waiting outside Scootaloo's home in a secluded back corner of the Rainbow Cottages, when Rainbow Dash and Princess Luna landed next to them. "Rarity, where is Garnet?" Luna asked.

"Pinkie is watching him until we return. Do you know what this is all about Luna?" She asked.

"I have my suspicions. Wait here a moment." Luna flew up to the second story windows and looked in each one until she found what she was looking for.

"What is it?" Rainbow asked.

Luna landed at the front door. "It's as I feared, she's alone."

"But if you want to talk to her alone, isn't that a good thing?" Spike asked her.

"No, you misunderstand. She's completely alone. Her room and apparently the kitchen appear to be the only rooms that have been lived in, in years. Scootaloo is upstairs sleeping in her room, we need to talk to her but I don't want to give her the chance to run away." Luna touched the front doors lock with her horn. There was a soft click and the door swung open on loose hinges. "None of you saw that."

The five ponies carefully entered the home and quietly shut the door behind them. The house was empty, nothing on the walls or the floor. The only thing that said somepony lived there were the hoof prints in the thick layer of dust covering the floor. They made their way upstairs and gathered in the room of the young orange pagasus. The room was as clean as would be expected from a filly her age. There was no decoration in the room save various posters of the Wonderbolts and Rainbow Dash on the walls. Like the rest of the house, there wasn't a scrap of furniture in the room. A pile of old straw served as a bed for the young pegasus. Sweetie Bell approached her and gently shook her friend. "Scootaloo, wake up please, we need to talk to you"

Scootaloo slowly opened her eyes. "Hey Belle," she said sleepily. "What are you doing up? Come on back to bed, I'm cold."

The other ponies stood in shock, looking back and forth between Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle. The young unicorn shook her head indicating she had no idea what her friend was talking about. Luna walked over and laid next to the pile of straw. "Scootaloo, crusader, your Princess needs you."

Scootaloo sat bolt upright in her bed looking at the ponies around her. "What's going on, why are you all here? How did you get in? Uh, my parents will be home soon and they'll be really mad if they find you here!" She sputtered out at a rapid pace.

"Dear, we've seen the house already. Nopony except you has been here in years. Where are your parents?" Rarity asked in a motherly tone.

"I don't know what you're talking about." She said.

"Hey Squirt, what's the deal? We're only trying to help." Rainbow reassured her.

"I don't need your help, I'm doing just fine. When Mom and Dad get back they'll tell you too!"

"Crusader," Luna said sternly. "I want to speak with your parents immediately. I want to know where they are and I want to know now. Any pony who would leave their child in these conditions does not deserve to have them."

"Hey, my parents are great, you'll see! They'll be back any minute so just go away and I'll tell them to talk to you when they get home."

Sweetie Belle slapped her friend across the face with the back of her left front hoof. "Stop lying!" She shouted through the tears running down her face. "I saw you. I followed you home and I saw everything. You don't have any electricity. There's not even running water here. I saw you buy enough food for one lunch and one dinner and that was it. Do you even have any food in your refrigerator? Nopony should have to live like this. We're only trying to help you. Can't you understand that? Where are they? Why are you living like this?"

Scootaloo sat there holding a hoof to her face staring at the tears pouring from her friend's eyes. "They're dead." She said quietly as she began to cry as well. The other ponies just stood there, processing what the just heard.

Sweetie Belle didn't need to wait, she tackled her friend in a crushing bear hug. "I'm so sorry? Why didn't you tell us? We could have helped."

Scootaloo tried to pry the unicorn off her. Sweetie Belle released her but the young pegasus was soon enveloped in a pair of cyan forelegs and wings. She tried to struggle out of Rainbow's grasp but Dash just hugged her tighter. "Hey, let me go!"

"Calm down Squirt, I'm not letting you go. Believe me, I know how you feel."

"How could you know how I feel? You still have your parents!" She shouted.

"Yeah, Mom's still around but I lost my Dad in a training accident when I was about your age. I watched him fall out of the sky and die." Rainbow Dash admitted, tears streaking down her cheeks.

Scootaloo looked up at her hero, wiping the tears from her eyes. "Y-you did?"

"Yeah kiddo, I did. I know it's not the same thing but still, I understand." Rainbow said.

"Why are you here all alone?" Luna asked her. "Please tell us what happened."

"Six years ago, my Dad took a job in Coltsburg. He said we'd come back to Ponyville every summer so we kept the house. Shortly after we arrived Mom got sick. Dad wouldn't let me see her. I couldn't even hug her. I had to talk to Mom through the door. As winter passed Mom got so sick that Dad started missing work and then he started coughing. Our neighbor called the hospital and they took my Mom and Dad away. I stayed in the hospital but the doctors; they wouldn't let me see them. Then, the third day at the hospital, they told me they died. They were so sick. They said it was something called enciph, encephi..."

"Encephalitis; we've lost so many ponies to that virus. I thought we had it handled." Luna said.

"Yeah, that's what the doctor called it. He said it was rare but it still happens. They told me I had to go to an orphanage since I didn't have any other family. Dad told me about those places. He said that some of them are really bad, like foals being beaten or worse. He told me that sometimes the colts and fillies are, uhm, touched in a bad way."

"Scootaloo, orphanages aren't like that. Maybe at one time a very long time ago but there are laws and policies to carefully screen everypony that works at them." Luna explained. "From what I read, my sister put those policies in place herself."

"I didn't know that. I was afraid." She said. "I didn't want to live in a place like that so when they came to take me away, I ran. I ran as fast as I could. I wanted to go home and get my things but I was afraid to go back. I ran to the only other place I knew I would be safe. I came back to Ponyville."

"You've spent the last seven years all by yourself? What about food? You haven't been stealing have you?" Spike asked

"No. Mom didn't think you should keep all your money in one place. She kept money stashed all over both houses." Scootaloo told them. "So, what happens now?"

"I'm sorry Scootaloo but we can't let you stay here all by yourself." Luna said.

"But I've been taking care of myself for seven years just fine."

"Be that as it may, it's not right nor is it legal. You're still just a filly. You need somepony to look out for you whether you know it or not." Luna said.

"You're not going to take her away to one of those orphanages are you Princess?" Sweetie Belle asked, concerned.

"No, she's not. Scootaloo, how would you like to come live with me?" Rainbow Dash asked. "My house has lots of room and you wouldn't have to hide anymore. Not to mention that being up in the clouds, you'd get lots of flying practice. We'd get you ready for the Speedsters Team in no time flat."

"Really, you'd let me come live with you?" Scootaloo's hero worship was going into overdrive.

"Yeah Squirt. I can't promise that I'll never lose my temper or I won't forget things until we get used to living in the same house. And I know I'll probably mess things up from time to time, and I can't cook worth a darn but yes, if it's okay with Princess Luna."

Scootaloo looked at her pleadingly. "Yes. If you both find the arrangements amenable then I see no problem with it, but I will be checking in from time to time." Rainbow Dash had the air squeezed out of her lungs when Scootaloo hugged her, tears streaming down her face.

"I'm happy this could be resolved." Rarity said. "Spike, we should really be going, I don't' want to leave Garnet with Pinkie too long. Who knows how much sugar she's given him."

"Okay. Belle, don't be too late, remember it's a school night." Spike reminded her.

Spike and Rarity left the home leaving Scootaloo alone with Luna, Rainbow, and Sweetie Belle. "Would it be okay if the other girls came to sleep over once in a while?" The young pegasus asked Rainbow Dash.

"I don't see why not but they'll have to get a cloud walking spell from Twilight." Dash told her. "Squirt, I'm going to have to spend a little more time at work now so I'm gonna have to put trust in you to be by yourself while I'm gone. But hey, don't worry we'll still have weekends to practice your flying okay?"

"But why?" She asked. "You never work more than six hours a day unless there's an emergency."

"Well, caring for another pony cost money and if I'm going to be responsible for you, I'll need to be bringing in more."

"Not necessarily." Luna said. "Now that Scootaloo doesn't have to hide anymore, she can claim the funds her parents have in the bank and all the property and assets that have been held in trust for her. As soon as you sign the legal paperwork, you'll be her legal guardian which means until Scootaloo is eighteen you will be in charge of those funds and can access them but only on her behalf."

"Is that okay with you?" Rainbow asked her.

"If it means you don't have to work longer just to look after me then sure."

"With that, we should be going as well." Luna said. "You two have a lot to discuss and like Spike said, it's a school night so I'm sure Sweetie Belle should be getting to bed as well."

Sweetie Belle and the Princess were about to walk out of the room when Scootaloo rushed towards them and embraced the young unicorn tightly. "Thanks for snooping and telling the Princess."

She hugged her friend back. "Anytime."

Cutie Mark Crusader Date Spying! YAY!

Luna the Matchmaker
Chapter 3 "Cutie Mark Crusader Date Spying! YAY!”
By Steven Little
My Little Pony © Hasbro

Luna didn't know how long she'd lain there sleeping. Her dreams were becoming more vibrant and expansive. She opened her eyes slowly, letting them adjust to bright morning light. She casually looked at the clock on the wall and saw that the morning had only just begun. "A good nights sleep was just what I needed." She said to herself. The Princess rolled out of the small bed and stretched her legs and wings luxuriously. Leaving her room, she walked down that short hall and into the family room.

"Good morning Luna." Spike said smiling. "Did you sleep okay?"

"Good morning Spike. I slept very well, thank you." She said. "Where's Rarity, I was hoping to speak with her this morning."

"Oh, she's in the bedroom giving Garnet his morning feeding. She should be out a little later." Spike explained. "Is there anything I can do for you?"

"Sorry Spike, it's a mare issue."

"I see. Twilight's coming over in a little while to be fitted for a new set of socks." Spike told her. "I sure you could talk to Rarity then."

"Socks? Why would Twilight be getting socks?"

"I have no idea. Somehow Rarity convinced her to get them." He said. "To be honest I don't know what the big deal is. I mean ponies don't normally wear clothing so what's the point?"

Luna's face grew hot as she imagined Twilight walking in front of her wearing a set of light purple, sheer, silk socks. Spike noticed the blush spreading across her face and chuckled. "So, how long have you had the hots for my big sister?"

The blunt question snapped Luna back to reality. "What?" She asked shocked. " I don't know what you're talking about."

"Oh come on Luna, it's written all over your face. I mention Twilight and socks and you turn as red as ruby."

"Please Spike, don't tell Twilight.”

“I don’t know. Some secrets shouldn’t be kept. I won’t tell her as long as you promise to.” Spike said.

“I will Spike, I promise. I just want her to hear it from me first. If it's going to mean anything, it has to come from me." The princess said.

"Okay but don’t wait too long. Twilight is going to figure it out eventually. She's your sister's premier student for a reason so the sooner you tell her the better. Wait, does she even know you're in town?" Spike asked her.

"I don't think so." Luna hoped.

A young white unicorn bounced happily into the front room. "Good morning Princess!" She said merrily. "Would you like something to eat?"

"I'd love one of Applejack's apples if you have any."

"We sure do! We have a whole entire huge bin full of them!" The over excited filly told her. Sweetie Belle bounced off to the kitchen with Luna in her wake.

"She's sure wound up about something." Luna called back to Spike.

"Not everyday you have a Princess staying at your house." Spike told her. Luna followed the filly into the kitchen and over to the apple bin.

"Here you go Princess. All the apples you could want." Luna looked through the bin and selected two large red apples for her breakfast.

"Thank you Sweetie Belle." Luna was hungry and ate both of the apples in three bites each, seeds, stem and all. "Mmmm, very tasty. Sweetie Belle, I wanted to talk to you about what happened last night before you go to school."

"What's up?"

"I just wanted to know how you're doing. Kind of a lot has happened." She said.

Sweetie Belle sat at the kitchen table. "I don't know. It's all kind of weird. I mean this whole time Scooty was living there all by herself."

"Scooty?" Luna asked.

"Uhm, yeah it's kind of a nickname. Anyway, she's living with Rainbow Dash now so everything's okay right?" She asked.

"Is it? Sweetie Belle you discovered one of your best friends has been lying to you for years and you're okay with it?"

"I know, I know." She said. "I don't like that she lied to me and every pony but I understand why. She was afraid. She didn't want to go to one of those orphanages because she thought she'd get hurt there."

"But that doesn't excuse the lies does it?" Luna asked her. "You're still mad at her aren't you?"

Sweetie Belle slammed her hoof on the table making Luna jump. "She should have come to us! She should have at least told me and Apple Bloom. She should have trusted us to help her!"

"Like you said Sweetie Belle, she was scared. She's been running for years, hiding her past."

"I don't care.” The unicorn filly said, almost pouting. “After everything the three of us have been through, all our adventures; she should have trusted her fellow crusaders."

"Sweetie Belle, I know you understand why she lied to you and hid her past and I know that isn't what's really bothering you?" The Princess asked her. "This wouldn't happen to have anything to do with Scootaloo's comment last night when she was half asleep?"

The young white unicorn suddenly had a splash of pink across her face. "Yeah, that was a little different." Sweetie Belle said. "Do you think she was dreaming or does she really, you know, like me?"

"She wasn't totally awake so I wouldn't be surprised if she doesn't remember saying it." Luna smiled at the filly. "I have to ask. If she does like you, how does that make you feel?"

"I don't know. It's hard to picture Scooty as a filly fooler…"

"Sweetie Belle, I'd rather you not use that term around me." Luna said, cutting her off.

"Sorry. What I mean is, I don't know what to do. It's weird isn't it; for a mare to like other mares?"

"Not at all. It's more common than you'd think." Luna informed her. "Did you know there are about four times more mares then there are stallions in Equestria? With that kind of discrepancy between the genders it's bound to happen."

"So, what do you think I should do?" Sweetie Belle asked her.

"I think you need to go talk to her about it and both of you need to talk to Apple Bloom. She deserved to know what happened last night. You can leave Scootlaoo's comment out of it." Princess Luna looked at the clock on the wall "Sweetie, I have to go or I'm going to be late with my plans, could you let Spike know that I'm going to be very busy today and most likely wont be back until late."

"Sure Princess I'll go tell him right now and thanks for talking with me. I’ll try to see Scooty today and get her to go with me and talk to Apple Bloom." Luna smiled at the filly as she trotted off. Luna opened the large sliding glass door leading out to the balcony and took off into the bright morning.

Princess Luna arrived in Cloudsdale two hours after leaving the Boutique. Standing on a cloudbank overlooking the city she searched for he quarry. The city itself sat atop a massive cloud. The Princess scanned the city from the Cloudaseum to the weather factory but it wasn't until she looked towards the outskirts of the city near Equestrias primary mail processing center that she found it, the Wonderbolts headquarters. The Wonderbolts, an elite team of pegasus, were flying above the city performing their morning work out. These pegasi were the best of the best, some of them hoof picked by Princess Celestia herself. They mostly flew in stunt shows or entertained guests at major functions like the Grand Galloping Gala but from time to time their real function came to bear. These ponies were the front line against any attacks on Equestria. Needless to say they were not used in that fashion often.

Luna flew to their headquarters to wait for them to finish. The team commander saluted smartly as the purple alicorn landed in front of her. "Princess Luna this is an unexpected surprise."

Good afternoon Commander Spitfire. How's the promotion treating you?" She asked.

"It's taking a little getting used to. Last month I was captain of the team and now I'm the unit commander. It's hard ordering my friends around but they seem to understand, it's not personal, just the job." She said. "What brings you out today?"

"I'm here to talk to one of your fliers, could you bring them in?"

"Sure thing." Spitfire flew up into the sky and a moment later came back down with the Wonderbolt squadron with her "Form up! Let's show the Princess that we're not a sloppy bunch of new recruits!"

The elite pegasi all snapped to attention and saluted smartly. Luna returned the salute. "At ease." She said in a powerful commanding voice. "Lieutenant Soarin Stormcloud. Front and center."

The light azure pegasus with a navy blue mane, stepped out of formation and walked forward. The blue flight suit he wore was formfitting and impressively showed off his trim muscular frame. All the blue he wore along with the color of his mane and tail served to accentuate his striking green eyes. As he walked to the head of the formation nopony else in the squadron would dare move a muscle but all eyes were on Soarin. All the Wonderbolts had one question on their mind. What had he done to upset the Princess? "Your Majesty?"

"Attend me Lieutenant. I would have words with you." Luna said. "Oh, and leave you uniform here, you won't be needing it for a while." Luna led him to an office at the end of the hanger. She allowed him to enter first and then closed the door behind them. The office itself was not overly large. It was an old administrator's office and was furnished as such. The desk took up most of the center of the room with a single chair behind it and two in front. A filing cabinet sat against one wall with a set of large window on the other, looking out into the hangar.

Soarin was visibly shaking no matter how hard he tried to keep up the facade of proper decorum. "Is there something I can do for you Princess?"

Luna sashayed past him and sat behind the desk. "Yes, I'm hoping there is. Lieutenant, I need your help with a very personal matter. Do you think you're up for it?"

Soarin's face was flush. "I'm not sure what's going on here. If I have upset you in any way, I profusely apologize." He said. "But if this is what I think it is; Princess I'm flattered but I'm interested in somepony else."

Luna started to laugh loudly. "Soarin, relax. I'm not mad at you; I simply needed to get you away from the others. To be honest, I hate acting like that but I need to talk to you and this way, no one will ask questions." She said. "And I'm not coming on to you for that matter either.

Soarin relaxed. "Oh thank goodness. Not that you're not attractive or anything, far from it! It's just, I mean, what you said back there and then what you said in here, I thought…"

Luna chuckled. She could see why Rainbow liked him. "Soarin. It's okay; relax. I wanted to talk to you about Rainbow Dash."

"Rainbow Dash?" He asked frantically. "Is she okay? Did something happen?"

"Calm down. Rainbow is fine. I just wanted to talk to you about her. More specifically, I wanted to talk about you and her. I have it on authority that you're quite infatuated with her."

"Wha... I, er, well I..." Soarin fidgeted nervously.

"Lieutenant; you have no need to pretend or be embarrassed around me. My sources are very trustworthy and not prone to lying." The Princess told him. "Please, be honest, you do like her don't you?"

"I, I'm not to sure where you get your information but, uhm yeah, I guess, yes, I like her." Soarin admitted.

"If I may ask, how long have you had these feelings for her?" Luna inquired.

"Please pardon my rudeness Princess. But why are you so interested in this."

"Soarin, Rainbow Dash and her friends are very special to me. I owe them all a debt that I can only hope to repay one day. To that extent I feel I must do whatever is necessary to help them in any way I can. Now please, answer my question."

"A little over four years." Soarin admitted reluctantly. "The day she saved my life at the young flyers competition at the Cloudaseum."

"My sister told me about that. It was quite a feat." She said.

"Are you kidding? She could have died! I know she was really doing it for her friend Rarity, but she risked the extra time to save me, Spitfire and Sunshade. At the speed she was going after her sonic rainboom, she could have very easily crashed to the ground and killed herself. Princess Luna, she risked her life for ours, for me." Saorin was pacing the room. "How do you talk to sompony after that?"

"Have you tried?" Luna asked him.

"Yeah, at the Grand Galloping Gala that year. Spitfire was talking to me and I dropped my apple pie. Rainbow Dash sped over and caught it just before it hit the ground and the only thing I could say was, thanks." Soarin plopped down in one of the chairs at the head of the desk. "She must think I'm a complete loser."

"I assure you, she does not." Luna told him. "She idolizes you and the other Wonderbolts. Let me ask you something. When you were a little colt, you wanted to be a Wonderbolt more than anything didn't you?"

"Yeah. The Wonderbolts were so cool! I practiced everyday to become the best flier I could be. The first time I took the entrance test I failed but I tried harder and harder and harder and the next time I took the test I passed with flying colors!" The Pegasus excitedly explained.

"Sound like somepony you know?" Luna asked with a knowing smile on her face.

"Gosh, it does sound like Rainbow Dash doesn't it?" Luna could see the internal conflict within him. "But what if she says no? Worse, what if she thinks I'm using my rank and position in the Wonderbolts to try to take advantage of her? She'd beat the feathers off me!"

"Soarin, you are a Wonderbolt. Where's your confidence? Luna asked.

"Ask me to fly into a tornado, no problem. Want me to fly a starburst formation through a lightning storm, piece of cake. When it comes to that mare though, I feel like a colt with a crush on the class beauty."

Luna placed a hoof on his shoulder and looked into his green eyes. "Soarin. There are things in this world that are worth the risk. Tell you what, I'll go with you and hide in the clouds. That way you won't be alone when you talk to her and Rainbow will never know."

Soarin's face lit up. "Thanks Princess. I think I could do it knowing I had a wingstallion, uhm mare, uhm Princess; friend?"

"Well, friend let's get going. Can't sit around here talking all day."

"What, right now?" He asked shocked.

"No time like the present. Plus if you ask her now, you'll have something to look forward to all day." She encouraged him. "That, and I want to make sure you don't chicken out."

"You're right Princess. Let's go!" Both ponies walked out of the hanger and took flight.

Soarin looked as though he was taking his time flying to Rainbow's house. "Is everything all right Soarin?" The Princess asked him.

"Just fine, I just don't know what I'm going to say." He confessed.

"Why don't you ask her to go for a moonlit flight tonight? I'm sure Rainbow Dash would love that." Soarin smiled and sped off towards Rainbows house. Luna struggled to keep up. She wasn't a bad flyer and normally would not have any problem keeping up but for some reason she felt weaker than usual. Soarin came to a sudden stop at Rainbows front door. Luna took a little time to catch up.

Breathing heavily, the Princess outlined her plan. "I'm going to be down here hiding in the cloud. You do your thing and remember. I'm right here." Luna dropped out of site but made sure to stay within eavesdropping range. Soarin gulped and cautiously knocked on Rainbow's front door.

Rainbow Dash heard the knock from the kitchen where she was making lunch for Scootaloo and herself. "Hey Scoot, could you get that for me?"

"Sure thing Dash." The orange pegasus filly opened the door to see Soarin standing on the other side. "Hello."

"Hey there, I think I might have the wrong house. Does a pegasus by the name of Rainbow Dash live here?"

"Yeah, she's here, I'll go get her." Scootaloo closed the door and walked back to the kitchen. "Hey Rainbow, there's somepony at the door for you."

"Okay squirt, chop those carrots up for me, I'll be right back." She said walking to her front door. Opening the door, she stuck her head out. "Ya?" Rainbow felt something against her nose. She looked up into Soarin's green eyes. "Oh my gosh!" She shouted as she pulled her nose away from his and slammed the door in his face.

Rainbow was sitting on the floor of her cloud home stunned. "Why is, he, here?" She asked herself quietly. Her face had gone from cyan to a more distinctive reddish shade.

"Hey Rainbow, what's the matter?" Scootaloo asked her as she ran from the other room.

"Soarin, Soarin Stormcloud from the Wonderbolts is at the door."

"What?" She yelped. "But how can you tell, he wasn't wearing a uniform or anything."

"Trust me squirt, it's him." Rainbow Dash assured her. There was another knock on the door. "Hello?"

"Miss Dash? Can we talk for a moment?" Soarin asked.

"Sure, what can I do for you?"

Soarin bonked his head against the door. "Could you open the door please?"

Rainbow Dash slowly opened the door and poked her head out. "Yes?"

"Would it be okay if I came in?" He asked.

"Sure!" Sccotaloo said as she opened the door further.

Soarin walked in behind the filly, leaving Rainbow standing there in stunned silence. 'Scootaloo, what the heck are you doin?' She thought to herself.

"So kiddo, what's your name?" He asked.

"Oh, my names Scootaloo, uhm, I'm uh Rainbow Dash's cousin, yeah, I'm her cousin and by the way, she really likes you." A blush spread across the face of both Rainbow Dash and Soarin. Luna shifted her position inside the base of the cloud to stay within hearing range

Rainbow heard what she said and knew what she was doing. "No she's not." She told him, touched that Scootaloo would try something like this for her. "Soarin, Scootaloo is my adopted daughter. I signed the papers this morning. Scoot here was trying to get you to ask me out and she thinks guys don't like mares with kids."

"Actually, that's why I came here." Soarin scuffed the cloud beneath him with his hooves. "I was wondering. If you're not busy or anything if maybe you might want to go flying with me tonight?"

The blush that spread across Rainbow Dash's face had turned her cheeks completely red. "Sure."

"Okay. Pick you up here around ten tonight?"

"No problem." She said quietly.

"Okay well, I should really get back to the squad. I'll see you later." Soarin walked outside and flew off heading back for the hanger and was shortly joined by Luna. "I don't think it went so well." He said a little defeated.

Luna's ear perked up. "Are you so certain of that?"

"YESYESYESYESYESYESYESYES!" Rainbow Dash's shouts could be heard from a mile off.

"I think she's pretty excited. You be good to her now. She and the rest of the elements are very special to me."

"You have my word Princess." Soarin said throwing her a quick salute. Luna returned the gesture and allowed him to return to his squadron.

Back at Rainbow Dash's house she was still trying to get a grip on the moment. "Way to go Rainbow!" Scootaloo cheered.

"Thanks kiddo, I appreciate what you tried to do back there but I don't want you to ever be ashamed or lie about who you are okay?"

"Okay Dash but hey, you got a date with a Wonderbolt!"

"I know, this is gonna be so awesome! Wait wait wait, what am I doing? I can't go out with Soarin." She said. "I can't leave you here by yourself all night."

"It's okay Rainbow, I'll be fine. It's not like it's the first time I've been on my own." Scootaloo said, trying to reassure her.

"No, you've been on your own long enough and I'm not going to leave you here by yourself. Wait, Pinkie is babysitting the Cake twins while their parents are celebrating their anniversary."

"I'm too old for a babysitter." The orange filly said with a pout.

"I know that, but maybe you'd like to help Pinkie out tonight? The twins have become quite a handful." Rainbow said. "Lets go over to Sugar Cube Corner and find out. Besides, it'll be extra flying practice for you."

"Yay!" Scootaloo shouted as she ran outside into the late morning air.

Luna was happy that everything was working out so amazingly well. Just for fun she performed a few light acrobatics in the air. She wanted to feel the wind in her wings. Half way through a loop, Luna stopped and slowly descended to the ground. The Princess found it hard to keep her balance.

Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo had already arrived at Sugar Cube Corner and were informing their friends Rarity, Applejack, and Pinkie Pie about her date. "That's great Dashy! I hope you have a great time and Scootaloo, if you want to hang with me tonight and help with the twins, that'd be awesome!"

"Thanks a lot Pinkie.” Rainbow Dash said. “Hey, was that Princess Luna? I think I just saw her land behind the store." The ponies gathered at one of the back windows. They saw the Princess leaning against the backside of Sugar Cube Corner. Her stomach heaved, bringing up the small breakfast she'd had earlier. They watched Luna stagger down the road.

"She doesn't look so good, I think we best help her y'all." Applejack told them.

Princess Luna's vision had begun to blur. Luna could barely make out the fountain in the middle of town. 'The library, Twilight.' She thought. 'Must get to Twilight.' She turned left heading toward a large tree with a sign of a book out front. Her strength finally failed her and collapsed on the ground. In her delirium her legs kept moving trying to get to the library. Mercifully, Luna blacked out. She lay there, nearly motionless as five ponies raced to her side.

Rainbow Dash, Scootaloo, Applejack, Rarity and Pinkie finally caught up to the Princess. Applejack knelt beside her and put a hoof to Luna's brow. "She's got a terrible fever y'all we need to get her to the hospital."

"Not the hospital, we need to take her to Twilight, she knows more about alicorns than anypony else in Ponyville." Pinkie Pie said. The seriousness in her voice was unmistakable and strangely uncharacteristic.

"Rarity go home and get Spike, then get to the library. Scootaloo, go get Big Mac and Fluttershy; we may need them." Rainbow Dash ordered.

"Right away." Rarity said as she ran off. Scootaloo sped off in the opposite direction toward Sweet Apple Acres.

"Come on girls we need to get her to Twilight. Pinkie, run ahead and let Twilight know we're coming, Applejack, you get the front and I'll get the back." Rainbow Dash said. It took some doing but they soon had Princess Luna lying across both their backs. They knew that if ponies saw the Princess in this state, it would do nothing but cause panic. With that in mind, they took the back road to the library that would insure the fewest ponies possible would see them.

Twilight Sparkle was engaging in her most favorite of past times, reading and research. The subject of her research that day was dreams. For some time now her dreams had been plagued by the thoughts of a certain pony that she hadn't seen or even had the courage to write to for a year. The emotions these dreams brought out were not unpleasant, quite to the contrary, but Twilight was determined to understand why she was having these rather explicit dreams and the emotions they elicited. Pinkie Pie barged into the library, disturbing the lavender unicorns train of thought. "Twilight, oh thank goodness you're here. We need your help, Princess Luna is really really sick and nopony knows more about alicorns than you." Pinkie said. "Dashy sent Scootaloo to get Fluttershy. I sure hope she gets here soon."

"Where is she Pinkie?" Twilight asked in a panic. As if on queue, Rainbow Dash and Applejack came in carrying the Princess. "Oh my goodness she bleeding so much. Lay her down here. Rainbow, go get my sewing kit from my room, in the dresser, second drawer on the left." Rainbow Dash flew off the grab the kit.

"Is she going to be okay?" Pinkie Pie asked.

"I don't know first we need to stop the bleeding from these cuts then I can try and find out what happened."

Spike, Rarity and Fluttershy charged into the library. "Oh my, I hope I'm not too late." Fluttershy said.

"Not at all, I can really use your help. Did you bring your first aid kit with you?" Twilight asked.

"Yes, as soon as Scootaloo told me what was happening, I flew over as fast as I could. The others will be here soon." She said.

"Spike, could you send a letter to Princess Celestia, let her know her sister is sick and where she is." Twilight asked him.

"Way ahead of you big sis." Spike said as he blew green flame at the rolled up scroll he had just finished.

Rainbow Dash returned with the sewing kit while Fluttershy unpacked her supplies. Twilight used her magic and levitated a multitude of first aid materials. "Okay Fluttershy, I'm not as good at this as you are, what do I do first?"

Princess Luna slowly opened her eyes finding herself face to face with little Garnet bopping her nose with his tiny hoof. "Hello there little one." She said weakly.

Rarity trotted over to the bed and picked up her child. "You need to leave the Princess alone. She's very ill."

"No, it's okay. I'm fine." Luna said as she tried to sit up. Collapsing down back to the bed she found it hard to catch her breath. Perspiration beaded up across her brow.

"Oh dear. I'd best get the others. Luna, please lay still, you need to save your strength." Rarity said as she left the room.

Alone, Luna had a chance to look around the room. 'This isn't my room at the boutique.' She thought. Books and scrolls covered every imaginable space. The walls themselves were little more than large curved bookcases. She appeared to be in a bed with purple sheets, a bed much larger than the one at the boutique. The bed sat atop a balcony looking over the rest of the room below. A small set of stairs curved around the right wall from the door to the balcony area. Elusive at first a scent began to build in Luna's nose. 'I know this scent.'

"Twilight." She said softly. Burying her nose in the pillow she breathed in deeply. Luna was rewarded with the smell of lilacs after a spring shower. There was only one conclusion. Luna realized she was indeed lying in Twilight Sparkles bed.

Luna snuggled down between the sheets. 'It's like I'm wrapping myself in Twilight. I never want this to end.' She silently wished.

The aforementioned pony entered the room backed by five others. Each of them had a look of concern on their face. Luna could not tell if she was blushing or if her fever had gotten worse.

"Good evening Princess Luna. How are you feeling?" Twilight asked.

"I'm just a little tired is all. I've been feeling a little weak lately but it's nothing I haven't dealt with before. I just need some rest." Luna said

"This has happened before?" Fluttershy asked.

"Yes, a little while ago but it went away, I'm fine really. What happened?"

"Pinkie, Dash, Rarity and me were in Sugar Cube Corner havin’ a late lunch. Rainbow was telling us about a date she had tonight when we saw you land behind the shop." Applejack explained.

"Yeah and you went all barfy back there. Then we watched you walk wobbly down to the road." Pinkie added in. "You turned towards the library after you passed the fountain and then you went crash, right into the ground. But I think you didn't know because you looked like you were still walking but you were lying down."

"You cut up your right side pretty bad." Rainbow Dash concluded. Luna looked down along her body. Her entire right side was covered in bandages.

"Could I maybe talk to Rainbow, Applejack and Rarity alone for a moment?" Luna asked as calmly as she could.

"Of course your majesty." Twilight said. "Let's go Fluttershy, you too Pinkie." As soon as Twilight exited the room, Luna looked almost pleadingly at Rainbow Dash.

"Don't worry Luna. I didn't say anything to her." Dash reassured her.

"But she told us everythin'." Applejack informed her. "Why didn't y'all say somethin' when we spoke yesterday?"

"Yes." Rarity added in. "I could tell that you wanted to talk about something when you came to the shop with Sweetie Belle the other day."

"I'm sorry. It's still not that easy for me to express my feelings." Luna apologized. "I don't normally have anyone but my sister to talk to. The rest of the ponies at the palace tolerate my presence but they don't really talk to me. The six of you and my sister are the closest thing to friends that I have. I'm sorry I couldn't trust you with my secret. I wasn't sure how you'd react."

"Well, if it's any comfort to you, Twilight was plenty worried bout you. You should have seen her fixin' you up when we brought you here. She was like a pony possessed. I'd never seen her magic controllin' so much at one time." Applejack told her. "She insisted on doin' everythin' herself. Fluttershy was directin' her when it came to sewin' up some of your cuts but she wouldn't stop or take a break till she was finished."

"Really?" Luna was starting to tear up. 'Is it possible? Could she care for me that much?' she thought to herself.

"I swear Luna, you're just like Twi." Rainbow Dash said. "She's so busy helping others that she rarely makes time for herself. That's why we decided to move your things from Rarity's over here."

"You did what?" Luna asked shocked.

"Call it tough love and payback for not tellin' us what you were up to." Applejack said smiling.

Garnet began crying. "It's time for his feeding. I should be going anyway. Have a good time girls. Luna I hope you feel better soon." Rarity closed the door behind her.

"So you're not mad at me? Messing with your personal lives?" Luna asked a little afraid of the answer.

"Heck no Luna. You got Soarin to ask me out. And you gave me the courage to accept. If it wasn't for you, I don't know what would have happened." Rainbow said. "And on top of that, you gave me Scootaloo. We've only been together for a day but already I can't imagine life without that little filly. Thank you."

"Shoot Luna. I owe you a lot. Caramel hasn't broken or lost anythin' all day. And now he's taking me to the Sunflower Café for dinner. I can't thank you enough."

"You are both most welcome." Luna said.

Apple Bloom came running into the room. "AJ, come quick. Big Macintosh is sick."

"Calm down Apple Bloom. Now, what's goin' on?" Applejack said, trying to calm her down.

"Big Macintosh is sick in bed. He says it was somethin' he ate and he feels really bad."

"Big Mac's a big pony, I'm sure he can take care of himself." Rainbow Dash said.

Although unexpected, Princess Luna saw an opportunity. "Apple Bloom, come over her for a second." Luna told her. Apple Bloom climbed up on the bed and sat next to the Princess. Luna whispered into her ear for a while. When she was finished Apple Bloom was blushing and lit up in a big smile. "Is Sweetie Belle here?"

"Yeah. You want me to get her?" Apple Bloom asked.

"Yes. Good luck on your mission Crusader."

"Thank you Princess. I'll do my best.

"What did you tell her?" Applejack inquired.

Luna smiled a little through the pain in her side. "Nothing of too much importance. Now, I want you both to have a good time on your dates. Don't worry about Macintosh, I've just seen to it that he will be well cared for." Luna noticed the little white filly that had just entered the room. "There is something I want you both to remember. What happens tonight and every night after is up to you. All I did was give you the opportunity. It's up to you to seize that opportunity and make the most of it."

The two mares where smiling. "We understand Luna and thank you." Applejack said. Rainbow Dash and Applejack left the room to get ready for their dates, leaving Sweetie Belle alone with Luna.

"What can I do for you Princess?" Sweetie Belle asked, her front hooves resting on the edge of the bed.

"I have another important mission for you my little crusader. I need you to follow Applejack and report to me everything that happens on her date with Caramel. Can you do that for me without being seen?"

"You can count on me Princess." Luna smiled as she hurried out of the room. Twilight Sparkle was almost knocked over as Sweetie Belle rushed by.

The light violet unicorn walked up the stairs to her bedroom. "Well, everyone has gone home. So it should be quiet, which is good because you should really try to get some sleep."

"Twilight, do I make you nervous?" Luna asked her.

"Heh heh. What makes you say that?" She said.

The lavender unicorn swallowed hard. 'Calm down Twilight you've been around her before, it's no big deal. Just check in on her and go.'

"You're fidgeting. You keep shifting from hoof to hoof constantly. You seem to be breathing rapidly and your ears are hanging down."

"Can you read all ponies like that?" Twilight asked nervously.

"No, not all ponies but a good few of them." Luna explained to her. "Please Twilight calm yourself. I'm not the monster you met those six years ago."

"I, of course you're not a monster. I would never think that about you." She said quickly.

"Then why has your pulse quickened and your knees started shaking?"

'Darn it! Calm down.' She cursed to herself.

Twilight was suddenly interested in the floor. "It's not fair to read me like that."

"Life isn't fair Twilight Sparkle. Answer my question, please?"

"I'm sorry Princess Luna. I guess I am a little nervous. You are royalty after all. You're also hurt and sick. I can't get in touch with Princess Celestia. Spike has already sent her a letter but we haven't heard from her in over two hours."

"I wouldn't worry too much about it Twilight. Celestia loses track of time when she gets busy. I'm sure she thinks you and your friends can handle things." Luna shakily got to her feet. “And I'm not that sick. I'll be fine."

"Princess, please lay down you shouldn't be up and around." Twilight said

Luna tried to walk off the bed but only made it half way when Twilight blocked her way. "I'm fine Twilight and besides it's getting late. I'm sure you want to get to sleep. It's not right for me to take your bed from you."

Twilight tried to push the Princess back onto the bed "Princess, please, I would not be a good host or a good friend to let you become worse because I wanted to sleep in my own bed. I can sleep on my sofa in the other room." Twilight started to fall into one of her old habits and began lecturing the dark purple alicorn. "Whether you want to believe it or not, you are sick and you need your rest. As a matter of fact, you should probably stay in bed until I can figure out what's wrong with you."

"Nonsense." Luna said. "There's nothing wrong with me I'm just fine, just a flu I'm sure." She started to push against the unicorn mare when she was struck with a dizzy spell. Had Twilight not been there to catch her, Luna would have fallen to the floor

Twilight gently pushed Luna back onto the bed and pulled the covers around her. "There now, please get some rest."

Luna raised a hoof to stop her. "No Twilight. Please I don't want to intrude upon your hospitality."

"Princess Luna, this is silly. The bed is more than big enough. If it okay with you Princess, we can share it." Luna was blushing from tip to tail. "Would you get some rest then?"

"Uhm, I guess that's okay. If you insist but only if you stop with that Princess twaddle. I want ponies to refer to me simply as another pony, not a title to be feared and obeyed."

"If that is what you wish Luna, but please lay down and relax, you need to rest." Luna settled down in the bed. Twilight climbed into bed next to the Princess, tucking her legs in under her she settled down on the plush mattress.

Turning the lights out with her magic, Twilight called back behind her to Luna. "Goodnight Luna. I hope you feel better in the morning."

"Goodnight Twilight." Luna lay her head down and drifted off to sleep.

It was later that night when Luna stirred. She felt something warm pressed against her. Looking down, she found Twilight curled up next to her, nuzzled close under her wing. Luna's heart rate went through the roof. 'Could this be true?' She thought. 'Could the mare of my dreams really be cuddled up next to me?' Luna carefully lifted her wing and gently brushed Twilight's mane. 'This is real!' As much as Luna didn't want to leave she knew she needed to. It was almost midnight and she wanted to check up on Rainbow Dash and Soarin. Luna concentrated hard on Rainbow Dash's house. There was a flash and Luna was teleported to a cloud next to Rainbow's house. She had missed everything. Soarin and Rainbow were talking outside her house. Luna could barely hear the conversation but knew it was coming to a close.

"I had a great time Soarin, thanks for asking me to go flying with you."

"I'm glad you had fun Rainbow. I did too. I was wondering if you and Scootaloo wanted to have dinner with me tomorrow? My treat." Soarin asked hopefully.

"Really? You wouldn't mind if Scootlaoo came too?" Rainbow asked.

"She may not be your blood but she is your daughter if only by law. I wouldn't want to come between you two especially since you're both starting out."

Rainbow smiled. "Instead of dinner, I have a better idea." Dash wrapped her wings around him and gently kissed his lips. "How about breakfast?" She asked, pulling him into her house.

Luna didn't need to hear everything to know what was about to happen in there. "Good job Rainbow Dash, I'm proud of you." She said to herself.

Concentrating hard, Luna willed her teleporting power to send her back to the library and back to Twilight. It was taking more of an effort to gather the energy but at last she had it. There was the telltale flash of energy but something went wrong. Instead of sending her back into the bedroom, she appeared outside of the tree, fourteen feet in the air. Luna opened her wings quickly but the muscles controlling them faltered and would not hold the wings steady. Luna plummeted to the ground landing in a heap; her wings bent at odd angles. Above her, a single light in the library’s master bedroom had come on.

Nightmares and Broken Wings

Luna the Matchmaker
Chapter 4 "Nightmares and Broken Wings"
By Steven Little
My Little Pony is © Hasbro.

You are the light in my darkness,
You are my strength when I am weak.
You see my value though I feel worthless,
You make me feel special and unique.
Please don't cry,
Don't shed a tear and don't ask why.
Even though I no longer have my wings,
As long as you are with me,
My heart will let me fly.

Luna woke bit by bit, her head resting against the pillow of the bed she lay in. Feeling the stiffness in her back, she lazily stretched. An intense pain ran through her body bringing her fully awake. Everything hurt. The only thing that seemed to dull the pain was the scent of the mare she cared so much about. Carefully looking around, she found herself in a hospital bed with one of Twilight's pillows beneath her head. The space was cold and sterile. The room had white walls and ceiling with various types of medical equipment in a corner, on the right side of her bed. The one warm glowing part of the room was Twilight Sparkle laid out on a cot on her left, between her and the door. Luna lay there and watched her while the pain in her side and back slowly subsided. She stared at the unicorn's angelic form. She watched her chest rise and fall with each breath. Her face was soft and peaceful. Luna gazed at her face and the slight movements of her mouth and nose as she breathed. 'Oh Twilight. How oft I've dreamt of kissing those lips.' She thought to herself.

"Twilight?" Luna had hard time speaking. In fact it was a strain to do most things. "Twilight?" She called louder.

The lavender pony woke slowly and looked over to Luna's bed. "Princess Luna! You're awake!" She said, jumping off her cot and rushing to the Princesses side.

"What happened Twilight? I was teleporting back to the library and the next thing I know, I'm waking up here."

Twilight couldn’t bear to look her in the eye. "I heard a commotion outside the library last night. I rushed outside and found you lying crumpled on the ground. You were barely breathing so I teleported both of us here. I didn't know exactly what happened but when I spoke with the doctor earlier, he said it looks like you fell over twenty feet to the ground and landed on your wings." Twilight explained as she moved the cot against the far wall, making more room for herself by the Princesses bed.

"My wings?"

“Broken; both of them, along with two ribs and your left front leg." Luna hid her face as she began to sob. Twilight stroked her cobalt blue mane. "Shhh. It's okay Luna, broken bones heal and scars fade with time. I promise I'll help you through it. I bet in no time at all you'll be flying through the sky again, you'll see. Now that you’re awake, I'm going to talk to the doctor Stable and see if we can't move you out of the hospital." When Twilight left the room, Luna pulled the blanket back, and noticed that her royal finery was gone. Not that she cared. She never much cared for it but still, where was it? Luna carefully slid off the bed to her hooves, pulling an assortment of medical monitoring equipment with her. Using her magic, Luna removed the IV needle from her right front leg and the various leads that connected her to the machines. Putting as little weight as possible on her broken leg, she stood a little unsteady on the other three. It felt like her whole body was a bundle of dull pain. Taking a cautious step forward, she stumbled slightly; the numerous painkillers they gave had made her dizzy. Now it was more than just her right side that was bandaged up. The Princess looked back over her left shoulder. Both her wings were immobilized and bound to her sides. Bandages wrapped around her chest and her left front leg was in a splint.

Carefully turning back toward the bed, Luna grabbed Twilight's pillow and placed it on her back. Taking a few slow measured steps, she poked her head out the door. "Twilight?"

"Princess Luna! You shouldn't be out of bed!" Twilight reprimanded her.

"I'm sorry." Luna said dropping her head and ears.

"It's alright, I'm sorry Luna I didn't mean to yell; I'm just worried about you." Twilight said. I've spoken with the doctor and he said that you're okay to go as long as you take it slow."

Luna blushed at the thought of Twilight concern for her then froze in terror. "I can't go out there! I look like a train wreck!" Had Luna been able to, she would have curled up into a ball.

Twilight placed a hoof against the Princess's chest. "Don't worry, I promise nopony will see you. Just take it one small step at a time." Luna slowly walked out the door careful to keep pace with Twilight's slow and measured steps. Each step was painful and she had to rebalance herself each time but Twilight was true to her word; during the entire agonizingly long trip to the library, nopony saw her. Twilight let her into the library and closed the door after them. It wasn't until then that Luna noticed Twilight's horn had been glowing.

"Nopony so much as looked in my direction. Not even one. How did you accomplish this?" Luna asked, amazed.

"I put a cloak of shadows on you. It's taxing and not very efficient as I have to continuously power it but it's useful when you don't want to be seen." Twilight explained.

Luna was impressed. No wonder she was her sister's number one student. "Twilight. Not that I really care about it, but what happened to my vestments?"

"Follow me, but take it slow." Twilight said. Step by painful step the two ponies climbed the stairs to Twilight's sleeping loft. At the foot of the bed, Luna saw her vestments. They were mangled. Her shoes were dented, her crown twisted, and her chest guard was bent almost double.

Luna passed them by and carefully lay on the bed. "I'm so tired. The trip from the hospital was more taxing than I thought." She said. "Would it be okay if I rested for a while?"

"Of course it is Luna. I'll just be downstairs if you need anything. If you call for me, I'll hear you and come straight away."

"Thank you." She said. A sudden panic washed over her and she called out. "Twilight?"

"Yes Luna?"

"Nothing, it's nothing. I'm just really tired, I just…"

"I can tell something is bothering you. Please trust me, I won't judge you." She told the Princess.

Luna looked soulfully at Twilight. "Will, will you be here, when I wake up?" She heard her voice as she asked the question. At that moment she sounded like she was a little foal again.

Twilight walked over to the bed and gently pressed the Princess down against the mattress and pulled the covers over her, tucking them in around her neck. "Rest Luna. I'll be here, I promise." She rested her head against the pillow and closed her eyes. Twilight sat by the bed and watched over her till she fell asleep. Twilight leaned over kissed her forehead and whispered into the Princess's ear. "I'll be here for you as long as I am able."

Twilight closed the door behind her as she walked into the library. "It has to be here somewhere." She said to herself. Looking over the stacks, she found the book she was looking for. 'The Nature of Alicorns.' Princess Celestia herself had written the book many years ago. Flipping through the tome, she found the passage she was looking for.

"The nature of an alicorns immortality is derived from the

fact that they are a combination of all three types of

pony: Unicorn, Pegasus, and Earth Pony. Should one of these

factors be removed, the alicorn would be rendered mortal.

That is to say. An alicorn, like any living thing can be killed.

They could even become gravely ill and die. Alicorns however

do not die of old age as other living things do. Other factors

aside, an alicorn will mature to the physical appearance of thirty six

years of age at which point they appear to stop aging."

Twilight was distracted from her reading by a knock at the door. Opening the door, she found Luna's doctor from the hospital standing in the failing light as the once beautiful clear day drew to a close. "Doctor Stable. Oh, I hope you've brought good news."

The doctor shook his head. "I wish I could Mrs. Sparkle. The tests are conclusive. The nerves have been severed and damaged beyond repair. Even with all our magic, we would not be able to reconnect them. On a positive side, while the wings will eventually begin to atrophy, the blood supply has not been cut off."

"So she'll be able to keep her wings then, but…"

"I'm sorry Mrs. Sparkle but the Princess will never be able to fly again. Please extend our condolences to her and Princess Celestia."

"Of course sir." She said as she slowly closed the door.

Twilight slumped down on her couch. 'How am I going to tell her?' She asked herself. Twilight reached back into her memory trying to find the answer. Back to the time she and her friends had battled Nightmare Moon. She had touched something then, deep inside the evil mare. Buried below all the hate, the bitterness, and resentment was a scared and freighted Luna. There was something else there that Twilight couldn't quite explain and it nagged at her. There was a power protecting Luna, enveloping her, trying it's best to keep the darkness at bay. As soon as Twilight reached out her hoof to her, that power faded and departed as if it knew she would be able to help. The power of the Elements of Harmony banished the nightmare and brought Luna to the surface. Since that day Luna had always been in the back of her mind.

A year later on Nightmare Night, Luna returned to Ponyville in an attempt to reconcile with the ponies there. Twilight felt a compulsion to help her again, to fit in and understand some of the changes to the world since her departure, something that was not made easy by Pinkie Pie or Rainbow Dash. In the end Twilight felt she had gained a new friend in Luna and counted herself doubly lucky to be so close to both of the royal alicorn sisters.

Twilight meant to write to the Princess but always found a reason not to. In her letters to Princess Celestia, Twilight would make it a point to ask her how her sister was but for some reason could not bring herself to ask directly. When Spike turned into a werepony and she went to Canterlot to help him, she got to see Luna again but only briefly. As worried as she was about Spike, she remembered she couldn't get Princess Luna out of her mind. She had progressed so much since that night four years before. When it was time to leave, Twilight found it hard. She wanted to spend more time with Luna, talk to her, and catch up on everything that had happened since the last they met but Twilight never could seem to get her alone. Now, here she is in her home, in her bed. That night she spent with Luna before the accident; the lavender unicorn couldn't seem to calm herself. She could feel her pulse quicken even now thinking back to the previous night. Her heart went out to the injured alicorn and it hurt Twilight to see her friend like this, damaged and broken. 'My friend; if only it was that simple. Princess Celestia, I could really use your guidance right now.' She thought to herself.

Reaching back into her mane, she pulled out two lockets. One was hers, a cloud obscured moon emblazoned on it’s surface; the other belonged to Luna. The Princesses locket had fallen from around her neck when the doctors lifted her onto the gurney at the hospital. Holding it up, Twilight realized how much the jewelry resembled her own; but what really drew her eyes was the design carved into the front. On the face of the adornment was a large engraved six pointed star, rays of what she assumed was light, power, or some kind of radiance were shown to be emanating from it. Twilight studied it for a moment when she discovered how much the star resembled her own cutie mark. It wasn’t a perfect likeness, but it wasn’t far off. “Please forgive me Luna.” She said, unable to control her curiosity any longer. When she opened the adornment, she nearly dropped it on the ground when she saw what it held.

Twilight opened her own locket and held it side by side with Luna’s. Looking at the pictures engraved into the lockets, she remembered what she whispered in Luna's ear as she slept. "I'll be here for you as long as I am able." She spoke aloud to herself.

Closing both of the silver lockets, she strung them around her neck once more. 'Why did I say that?' She asked herself. 'Stop trying to fool yourself Twilight. You know exactly why you said it and why you wanted to say so much more.'

"Oh Luna. I'm so sorry." A scream rent the air, disturbing the silence of the library. Twilight ran as fast as she could to Luna's side. The mare's face was contorted in pain. She was asleep but Twilight could tell something was tormenting her horribly. Twilight gently shook her trying to wake her from the nightmare but to no avail, Luna slept on. Shaking harder, she called out her name. "Luna, Luna wake up you're having a bad dream." The alicorn simply moved as Twilight shook her. In a desperate desire to calm her dreams Twilight drew closer to the tortured mare and touched her horn to Luna's, entering her mind.

Luna's dreams came back as they always had. It was not a pleasant vision. She had become a warped and deformed creature. Her wings were twisted and misshapen. Her mane and tail were gone, her legs appeared as though they had been broken and healed wrong many times over, and her coat had patches of fur missing. Any pony that she came across in the dreamscape, ran screaming from her. In the distance she could see her sister. She ran as fast as her misshapen legs would allow, finally catching up to her. “Get away from me you foul creature; be gone!” She shouted before flying away.

"I'm alone." She said. "Not again! I don't want to be alone anymore! I don't want to go back into the cold darkness!" Luna cried out into the void.

"What's the matter Luna?" Came a voice Luna thought was gone forever.

"No, it can't be you! I saw you destroyed. You're dead!" She whimpered.

A maniacal laugh echoed around her. "Did you think I could be banished so easily? You stupid foal! I am you! I am the darkness that resides in your empty heart. I'm that side of yourself you deny because you think somepony actually cares about you. You didn't even feel me slowly sapping the energy from you. Look at yourself. You're a monster. I wouldn’t worry though, when I'm done, you’ll be beautiful again. Of course, it won't be you will it? As soon as you're weak enough I'll takeover and you’ll be gone. There's nopony here to save you this time."

A new consciousness intruding on Luna’s dream distracted both ponies. The presence was small at first but gradually grew in brilliance and overwhelming intensity. Warmth that Luna had only ever felt once before in her long life enveloped her. It was the deepest most powerful thing she'd ever experienced. It was as if love, true love, was something tangible and you could wrap yourself up in it like a blanket. A lavender unicorn stepped forth from the void, her luminous presence banishing the darkness before her "You will not have her!"

"Twilight?" Luna asked in disbelief. The unicorn stepped between the Princess and Nightmare Moon. "Twilight, is it really you?"

"Yes, it's really me." She said. "I heard you scream and came as fast as I could. But we can talk about that later, we have more important things to deal with. I know how you must be feeling right now, but this isn't you Luna you are not a monster."

Nightmare Moon cut any further conversation short. "Twilight Sparkle, so good of you to join us. I don't know how you got here but now I can destroy you and regain control of Luna." The evil mare cackled. "My night just keeps getting better."

Twilight dug into her reserves of magic and found them multiplied five times by Luna's own. She was surprised that even her weakened state, Luna possessed an amazing amount of power. Reaching out to her friends, she called to each one. 'Girls. I need you. Nightmare Moon has returned and I need your strength. Please hurry.' All over Ponyville, the five friends' woke from their slumber knowing what they should do and where they needed to be.

"No." Luna said, slowly getting to her hooves. Her form began to change. Her scars vanished and her wounds disappeared but her wings still hung limp at her sides. Luna's beauty restored; she stood tall and proud against the nightmare. "I'll die before I let you hurt her! Your fight is with me you evil, miserable, thing!"

"Luna." Twilight said softly.

"Awww isn't this precious? You think the two of you could possibly do anything to stop me?" Nightmare Moon asked mockingly.

"Maybe not but I'd be glad to kick your sparkly butt back where it came from." Rainbow Dash materialized next to them. "I never leave my friends hangin' especially when it involves the Princess!"

"Indeed." Rarity said as she appeared next to Rainbow. "I too would not mind a chance to soundly thrash you. How dare you show that tacky mane around here again."

Pinkie Pie bounced up over Luna and landed between Rainbow Dash and Twilight. "You're just a big mean grumpy mean meanie pants and we don't want you around here. There's not enough party in the whole wide world to improve your attitude."

"You're aint gonna do nuthin' but high tail it outta here if you know what's good for ya'! I'd just a soon buck you out of this place myself." Applejack materialized next to Twilight followed by Fluttershy.

"How dare you threaten my friends? Who do you think you are to hurt another pony like this?" The other six ponies looked in shock at Fluttershy. On her face was stamped a look of utter fury.

The deranged Nightmare Moon only laughed. You can't hurt me; you don't have your precious Elements of Harmony to help you this time. Without them you're weak and no match for me!"

"Don't be so sure of that." A tall elegant alicorn stepped from the shadows. "You took my sister once before and twisted her innocent soul. I won't let you have her again."

"Celestia!" Nightmare said, spitting the name out.

The Princess of the Sun looked over to the ponies protecting her sister. "Go ahead girls, call to them." The six ponies concentrated their thoughts on the six jewels of harmony located back in the Canterlot Tower, at the royal palace. Vanishing from the vault, one by one the elements appeared around the necks of their bearer finishing with Twilight's coronet.

"I don't believe it!" Cried the evil mare. "How can this be?"

Twilight jumped out in front of the others. "You'd better believe it, and with the Elements of Harmony, we'll defeat you once and for all."

"Not if I kill you first." She said. Nightmare Moon's wings began to glow. She reared back and gave a single powerful flap of her wings toward Twilight. Twin blades of energy erupted from her wings and flew in a twisting arc toward the lavender unicorn mare.

A split second before the she was struck, Luna shoved Twilight out of the way. "No! I won't let you hurt her!" The Princess took the full force of the blast as the blades of energy exploded against her. When the smoke had cleared they found Luna lying on the ground. Her wings had been shorn off and parts of her coat were singed down to the skin.

Celestia and the six ponies gathered around the fallen Princess. "Why did you do it Luna?" Twilight asked through the tears streaming down her face. "What were you thinking? You could have been killed."

"I couldn't let her hurt you." She said weakly. "I love you Twilight Sparkle. I just wish I could have told you sooner, before it was too late."

Twilight knelt down and kissed the dark purple mares cheek. "Shh, don't talk like that. You're not going anywhere. We can talk about this later when you're better." She whispered. Luna smiled up at Twilight, her eyes closed and she went limp in Celestia's embrace. "Luna, Luna, hang in there! Please, don't leave me, not now!"

"Twilight, she's not dead, she's weak but she won't die right away." Celestia told her. "We have to help her in the physical world. I've tried disconnecting myself from this plane but I'm afraid we're stuck as long as Nightmare Moon is in control. Twilight, we need to end this now or Luna could bleed to death."

"The stupid foal. Oh well, more's the pity. I suppose one of you will suffice as a suitable host." The evil mare said. "Now, all of you bow before your new Queen or die!" Twilight could feel energy flooding into her. Looking up she saw her friends and Princess Celestia huddled around Luna. Energy seemed to be draining from them and into her.

"Go ahead sugar cube. Take it." Applejack said smiling.

"We're behind you all the way Twi." Rainbow reassured her.

"Whatever magic I have in me is yours Twilight." Rarity said. "We believe in you."

Pinkie smiled weakly, her mane flat and lifeless. "I have more than enough energy for three ponies. Take whatever you need to kick her flank."

"Don't let her hurt anymore of our friends Twilight. You're a good pony, I know you can do this." Fluttershy said.

"Fight Twilight, for her." Celestia whispered. Twilight felt the energy well up inside as her image started to change. Her legs turned yellow, grew sturdy and strong. A pair of blue wings appeared on her back long and powerful. Her horn turned white. Growing in length it became sharp and keen as an icicle in the deepest blowing winter. Insider her burnt a vitality she had never known. The power she held within her was like nothing she had ever experienced.

"You're all pathetic; grieving for that useless waste of a pony." Nightmare Moon said, disgusted at what she saw. "All she ever did was snivel and cry the thousand years I was with her. She never understood the true gift of power I represented. Now look at her, a broken thing not long for this world."

The six ponies protecting Luna felt a sudden, immense tug at their own energies. "How dare you mock her?" Twilight voice echoed all around them with an eerie ethereal power behind it. Her frame continued to grow, her entire form glowing dark red. Her mane and tail grew long and black. The star shaped cutie mark on her flank twisted and distorted into what appeared to be a six-pointed spiral blade. Twilight's eyes became blank and vacant black orbs. A crooked smile graced her face giving her a malevolent, hateful appearance.

"What is this?" Nightmare Moon asked, feeling the raw power emanating off of her opponent. "You would dare challenge me?"

Twilight slowly walked up her, each step crackling with energy. Nightmare tried to kick out at her only to have her hooves deflected away with a flick of Twilight's right wing. Knocking the dark pony to the ground, Twilight pressed a hoof down hard against her chest. "You talk too much, has anypony ever told you that?" The dark mare blasted Twilight with energy from her horn and took off into the space above them. "What's the matter? No clever comments? No witty retorts to placate you're executioner? Run Nightmare Moon; run as fast as you can. There is no escape from me; I will hunt you unto the ending of the world. When I catch you, and I will catch you, you will know the true meaning of suffering."

Twilight flapped her wings and took off after Nightmare. Her friends below watched as she chased the dark mare around, shooting out blasts of magic from her horn at her hated nemesis. "Princess what wrong with her, I've never seen Twilight like that." Applejack said.

"She's scary." Pinkie and Fluttershy said together.

"It's grief. Grief, anger, and power the likes of which her body was never meant to hold." Celestia told them. "When she borrowed energy from us she took much too much at the last moment and now that power is overburdening her mind. The raw anger and hatred for Nightmare Moon is the only thing driving her actions now."

"Is there anything we can do to help her?"

"I am unsure Fluttershy. I have no experience in these matters. I can only hope that after Nightmare Moon is gone, the Twilight we know will return to us."

The two adversaries circled and dived after each other, bolts of magic flying back and forth. Twilight had taken several hits, parts of her wings and coat was burnt and singed. Her adversary had not fared as well. Nightmare Moon’s body was covered in scorch marks and horrible burns. With the injuries slowing the nightmare down, Twilight finally caught up with her opponent. Following her movements from above her, she kicked down hard breaking Nightmares wings at the shoulder. The group below watched as Nightmare Moon plummeted down to their level, hitting what can only be described as the ground. Twilight landed lightly beside her. "Any last words before I cast you down to the fires of oblivion?"

"So much power." She said. "You didn't have this much the last time. Where did it come from? I have to know."

"Such an obvious question from a power hungry creature such as you." Twilight said. "The energy is on loan from my friends but it was you that showed me its true potential. Now that I know what I can do with it, I think I'll keep it. With this much power I can do anything. I can ensure the safety of not only my friends but also every pony in Equestria. Anyone that threatens the ponies of Equestria will wish for the end before I'm through with them and that includes you."

Twilight reared up to inflict more harm upon the fallen nightmare when the whole world around her seemed to freeze. "Thee are given power and this is what thou wouldst do with it?" Said a familiar soft and comforting voice.

"Who are you? Where are you? Show yourself!" Twilight yelled furiously.

A white alicorn with a red mane and tail stepped forward from the void. She was tall and slender and wore a cornet of gold laurels. Her Sapphire blue eyes penetrated into Twilight. "This is far too much power for thy fragile body to hold. It is a wonder thou are alive at all. Let us relieve thee of thy burden before it corrupts thee permanently." She waved her wing and Twilight began to change. The aura surrounding her faded away and her eyes returned to normal. Her mane and tail turned purple again and her cutie mark changed from its sinister appearance back to the shining star it used to be. "Thee look good with wings, we shall let thee keep them for now."

Twilight shook her head, trying to clear her mind. "What happened? Who are you?"

"Who we are is not important, when thou leave this place thou shalt not remember us." She said.

"Why are you doing this?" Twilight asked. "She has to be destroyed or Luna will die."

"Yes, thou are correct. If our daughter is to live, thou must destroy the nightmare. But that is not what thou was doing. Thee were torturing it for thou own amusement. The power imbued in thee was too much, it was corrupting thee and so we have come to help." The white alicorn stroked Twilight's face with her right front hoof. "Twilight Sparkle, thou are a gentle soul and more powerful than even thee can imagine. We have known about thee for a very long time and we have watched thee grow into a strong and beautiful mare. After all these years, We are very happy to finally meet thee. We wish that there were more time but alas, there is not.”

The sadness in the regal alicorns voice was causing Twilight to tear up. “Will we meet again?” She asked hopefully.

“Yes, We assure thee that we will meet again. Thou have saved our daughter from the nightmare once; go now and save her again. Do what we could not. Save the pony that loves thee."

The white alicorn vanished and time started to move forward again. Nightmare Moon immediately realized that much of Twilight’s power was gone. The evil mare let loose a blast of energy that knocked the unicorn back several feet. "I don't know where your power went but without it, you can't possible stand against me."

Twilight struggled to get to her hooves. "It's not all gone you witch and as long as there is any strength in me, I will fight you!" She shouted. "As long as I still draw breath, I will fight you! For all the ponies in this world now and future; I will fight you!"

Nightmare Moon charged her, closing the distance quickly. She reared up to strike a final blow against the unicorn when Twilight surged forward and struck at the evil mares unprotected chest. She struck with Rainbow Dash's speed, Applejack's strength, Rarity's determination, Pinkie Pie's confidence, Fluttershy's unspoken fury, and the power of Celestia's sun. Twilight's horn was buried in her chest all the way to the hilt, impaling to the very heart of the evil spirit.

A blinding light enveloped the Nightmare. "Noooooooooooo! This isn't possible!" She called out as she was enveloped in an intense white fire. When the light subsided. The only thing left was a small sparkling purple flame. A lavender hoof forcefully stomped down upon it.

"Finally, the end of Nightmare Moon." Celestia said resolutely

The ponies broke their connection with Twilight and Luna one at a time, each taking a step back from the bed. Twilight was the last to part her mind from the dark purple mare, returning to the same unicorn she always was. Looking down the Princesses prone form, Twilight saw blood soaking through the bandages around Luna's wings. Quickly cutting through the blood soaked wrappings with her magic; she saw that the wings had indeed been cut from Luna's body. Tearfully she looked up to Celestia. "Is there anything you can do?"

"I'm sorry my faithful student; this is beyond even my power." Celestia lifted the severed wings out and used her magic to heal her sister's numerous wounds and broken leg.

Twilight would not accept her answer. "No, please." She begged. "Take my magic, take it all if you have to but please help her! You have to be able to do something!"

"I cannot return immortality once it's been taken." Celestia tried to explain.

"Then what good are you?" She yelled. Twilight's five friends sat there and watched as their friend verbally assaulted their ruler. "You're supposed to be the ruler of Equestria, the most powerful pony in the world! You know more magic than anypony! You have more magic in your hoof than I have in my entire body! What good is magic if it can't do this one thing?! What good is magic if it cannot save her?! What good are you?! What good, am I?" Twilight grabbed her horn with both hooves and started to pull down on it with as much strength as she could muster. Pure magic reverberated around the room as more and more stress was applied to the horn, forcing it to bend.

"Twilight, please stop this. You're only going to hurt yourself!" Rarity shouted.

"No! If magic can't help her then there's no point to practicing it and I don't want it anymore!" A flash of raw magic poured from her head as the horn began to crack.

Princess Celestia placed her hooves on Twilight's front legs, preventing her from damaging her horn further. "Twilight, stop this! I know you're mad at me and yourself, but this will solve nothing. What's done is done. Luna will live and if you hurt yourself like this, she would never forgive herself. Do you want to put her through that?"

"No, I never want to hurt her." She said releasing her horn. Princess Celestia used her magic to straighten Twilight's horn and repair the crack at its base.

Luna stirred, the sound of Twilight's cries bringing her back to the waking world. "Twilight?"

The distraught unicorn hugged the dark purple mare tightly. "I'm so sorry Luna. I wish so badly there was something I could do." She said through her tears. "I can't fix this. Please forgive me."

Luna hugged her back, holding Twilight in her hooves "It's okay. It was my choice to step in front of you. I don't regret my actions. I finally got to tell you how I feel. I love you Twilight Sparkle."

"I love you too Luna." She said, trying to stem the flow of her tears. "But what about your wings? You're mortal now."

"Being mortal isn't so bad, as long as I can spend what time I have with you." Luna said nuzzling against Twilight's cheek.

Twilight nuzzled back. "I can't think of anything that would make me happier."

The ponies around the new couple, smiled as they watch the two mares nuzzle each other. Amongst those watching, no pony was happier than Princess Celestia, a single tear rolling down her cheek. 'After all these centuries you've finally found happiness and true love at the same time. Enjoy it little sister, you deserve it.'

Wings of Light and Magic

Luna the Matchmaker
Chapter 5 "Wings of Light and Magic"
By Steven Little
My Little Pony is © Hasbro

Luna stretched luxuriously in the bed she shared with Twilight Sparkle. For the first time in days her dreams had not been plagued by images of horror. Since the expulsion of Nightmare Moon she felt revitalized and it was all thanks to the lavender unicorn. Luna reached out to embrace the pony she loved but found the other side of the bed empty. She sat up and looked around. The room with wall to wall book shelves had not changed since the night before. "Twilight?" She called out, receiving no response in return.

'Where did she go?' She asked herself. 'She must be downstairs making breakfast or something; I'm sure that must be it, she just didn't want to wake me.' Princess Luna got up from the bed and started her way down the stairs when she heard the sound of running water from the bathroom. 'Ah, she just taking a shower, pity she didn't invite me.' She was about to go back to the bedroom when she detected another sound partially muffled by the water. Pressing her ear against the door she could hear it more clearly. Beneath the sound of rushing water she could hear crying. Luna quietly opened the door and let herself in, rationalizing that helping the pony she loved was much more important than worrying about her privacy. The light given off by numerous candles lit the entire room in a white glow. As she walked through the billowing steam in the bathroom, she gradually made out the shape of Twilight lying against the back of the tub allowing the warm water to spray against her back. She was faced away from her but Luna could hear her sobbing uncontrollably.

Luna placed a hoof on her shoulder. "Twilight, why are you crying? Did you slip and hurt yourself?"

"Luna!" Twilight gasped in shock. "What are you doing here, I though you were still asleep."

"I was but then I woke and found you missing. Are you hurt?" She asked.

"No, no I didn't slip or anything."

Than why are you crying? If it was something I did, I'm sorry." Luna apologized.

Twilight sat up in the tub, wiping the tears from her eyes. "No, please don't be sorry it wasn't anything you did. It's, it's, I'm sorry you weren't supposed to hear me."

Luna crawled into the back of the tub and sat next to her under the cascading water, hugging her tightly. "Please talk to me Twilight. What's bothering you?"

"When I was fighting Nightmare Moon, I lost control, I was so enraged by her that I let my anger take over."

"It's alright dear, Celestia told me everything that happened while you were saying goodnight to the others." Luna explained.

Twilight pushed herself away and looked into the her eyes. "You don't understand Luna. I let it take over; I didn't even try to fight it. I wanted Nightmare Moon to pay for what she did. I wanted her to suffer. I wanted her death to be slow and painful." She cried. "I'm a monster!"

"You are not a monster Twilight Sparkle. You were protecting me, something I am eternally grateful for. In the end, you came to your senses and did what needed to be done. Then you returned the borrowed power back to the ponies that offered it." Luna told her. "Those are not the acts of a monster."

"But what happens if I slip like that again?" She asked. "What if I hurt you again? I don't think I could live with myself if that happened."

"Twilight, look at me." The lavender unicorn turned her face toward her. Luna placed a hoof under her chin and lifted her face so she could look into the violet eyes of the pony she loved. "I was injured by Nightmare Moon, not you; and you weren't yourself at the time either. You had more magical energy running through you than your body was ever meant to handle and it was affecting your judgment. You weren't really in control at all. Not until just before the end. Celestia still doesn't know what finally snapped you out of it but if you hadn't given up some of that power, it could have killed you." Luna hugged her tightly. "Please, do not fret over this any longer. The nightmare is finally over. I'm finally free of that nightmare and it's you I have to thank for that."

"Are you sure? I mean if there was even a chance of regaining your immortality…"

Luna cut her off before she could finish her question. "Twilight; please close your eyes. I want you to try to visualize my night sky. Can you see it?" She asked.

"Yes." She said with a slight smile on her face. Twilight always loved the night sky. She marveled at the beautiful moon and the mosaic of stars that stretched across the vastness of the sky. "I can see it all as clearly as if it were real."

"Good." Luna whispered in her ear. "I want you to look up at the stars and count them."

"But there are so many. It would take a lifetime to count them all." She said.

"I know and when you finally have counted them all then you will know exactly how much I love you, whether I'm immortal or not." Small tears started to escape from beneath Twilight's eyelids, each coursing a path down her water soaked face. Luna shifted her position so that her back was lying against the back of the tub. She leaned up and kissed Twilight's water drenched cheek. Her eyes shot open as the Princess's lips touched her cheek. The sight before her was enough to take her breath away. Luna lay there, lounging against the back of the tub looking up at her through half close eyes, a small smile on her face. Her mane was drenched and plastered against the porcelain tub. The fur of her coat as well was slick and glistening in the candlelight of the bathroom.

Twilight leaned down and softly kissed her lips. Luna wrapped her forelegs around her and pulled her close. The lavender unicorn kissed her nose then her face, between the eyes. She kissed and nuzzled her way to the base of Luna's horn. Her now unicorn lover gasped at the intimate contact. Twilight kissed the horn's seat then ran her tongue up the pointed tip, dragging her teeth along its spiral groove. Luna hugged her unicorn lover tightly, nuzzling and biting at the fur on her chest. The vibration of Twilight’s teeth being dragged along her horn sent a soft but exhilarating shudder down her spine that happily settled between her haunches. The passionate unicorn slid her water-slicked body down and kissed her lover passionately.

The movements of the two ponies knocked over a container of body wash from one of the shelves above them. The bottle's cap popped off and poured down its contents all over Twilight's right shoulder and back. The soap oozed its way down her back and between the two ponies ending up in the tub, causing a cloud of bubbles to form. The kiss ended briefly. "Oh Twilight, you have no idea how many times I've dreamed of this."

"I know. I don't know how I know but I do." She said lightly biting her cheek. "I've wanted to be with you for so long." Luna pulled her back into the kiss again, letting her tongue slip into Twilight's mouth. Their hooves were everywhere, rubbing, caressing, touching, and exploring every inch of each other’s body.

Twilight had finished drying off from her shower and wandered downstairs. The main area of the library was just that, a library. On the north wall was a small fireplace but the rest of the walls were covered in bookshelves from the floor to the ceiling. The west portion of the room had a small broad staircase leading to a large area with a table and stools. This portion of the library was called the nook and was backed by a large bay window. This spot was where ponies could have a snack while they read or give them room to spread out while studying. The center of the room had a large sunken area where the main reading table was located. The pit, as it was called, was lined with couches around its perimeter. The east wall had a door that led off to the upstairs living quarters and another that led to the kitchen and first floor bathroom. "I wonder what Luna would like for breakfast?" She asked herself aloud, stepping down into the pit.

"I don't know, I think I'll start with a hoof full of flank and a side of kiss me now." She said tackling Twilight to one of the couches and kissing her deeply.

The front door burst open and an irrepressible ball of energy galloped into the library, catching Luna lying atop Twilight, mid kiss. "Anty Twiwhite, Anty Twiwhite!" Shouted a young light blue unicorn filly with a violet mane.

"Tootsie Flute. What are you doing here?" She asked as Luna scrambled to get off of her.

"You pomised I could half a new stowy book today."

"A new story book? Oh honey I'm sorry. I completely forgot." In the background Twilight could hear the foals parents looking for her. "Lyra, Bonbon; she's in here." The two mares walked into the library and down into the pit, each putting a hoof on their daughter.

"Sorry Twilight, she got away from us again." Lyra explained.

"Princess Luna!" The two visiting mares gasped as they noticed the other mare on the couch. They knelt down before the Princess quickly.

Luna put her left front hoof against her forehead. "No, please get up. It's to early for this."

"Luna this is Lyra, Bonbon and my goddaughter Tootsie Flute."

"I didn't know you were a godmother." Luna smiled down at the young filly. "And what a pretty goddaughter you have too."

"She's our little miracle." Bonbon said.

Twilight looked down at the young filly. "Tootsie, you need to stop running all over the place or you'll get your horn stuck in the wall again."

"Twice last night and once this morning." Bonbon informed her.

"Oh you poor thing. I tell you what. If you promise to be good, do what your mommies tell you, and don't run off without them anymore I'll let you have a new story book."

"I pomise Anty. I be good and do what mommies say."

"And?" Twilight asked.

"And I pomise I not run off no more."

Lyra noticed how close Luna was sitting to Twilight. She was practically cuddling with her. "Princess Luna, if you don't mind me asking, what brings you to Ponyville?"

"I came here to be with Twilight." She said in her matter of fact way.

Both of the visiting mares were lost for words for a moment. "Does this mean that you and Twilight are, together?" Bonbon asked.

Luna nuzzled against Twilight's cheek. "Yeah, we are." Twilight said smiling.

"I knew it!" Lyra declared triumphantly.

"This is so exciting!" Bonbon said.

Luna realized now that Lyra and Bonbon were a couple. "If you don't mind me asking, how long ago did you adopt Tootsie Flute?"

"We didn't adopt her, she's ours. I carried her and Lyra was her sire." Bonbon explained.

"But you're both mares. I know I've been gone for a thousand years but the facts of life don't change."

"Twilight helped us using a spell of hers." Lyra told her.

Twilight blushed. "I'll tell you about it later." She said sheepishly. Lyra had a mischievous look in her eye. Prancing around the center table, she started whispering in Luna's left ear.

Luna listened intently until Lyra had finished. "Twilight? You and I have a lot to discuss."

"Okay, out. Both of you lets go." Twilight said as she grabbed a storybook from the shelf and ushered the three visitors from the library. Looking back over her shoulder she called to Luna. "Don't go anywhere. I'll be right back." After a short while Twilight came back inside and flopped back down on the couch. "I love that little filly but it's way too early to deal with that much energy."

"Speaking of energy." Luna said lightly kissing Twilight's lips. "You were amazing."

Twilight kissed her back. "You weren't half bad yourself." The two ponies lingered in each others embrace until Twilight slowly disentangled herself and rolled off the couch. "I can't tell you how much I'd love to stay here like this all day but there's some things I need to do. But first I think both of us could use some breakfast."

The meal was nice and before long they were lounging in the main room of the library. Twilight was reading over a small stack of books while Luna sprawled on the floor next to her reading a particular large black book. She flipped through the pages, her face growing redder and redder after reading each spell. "Oh, I didn't know you could do that with a horn. I'll have to come back to that later." She said. She continued to flip through the pages until she found the one she was looking for. "Is this the spell you used?"

Twilight jotted down some notes then looked over to Luna's book. "Yes, that's the one."

"But this doesn't saying anything about changing a mare's gender."

"No, it wouldn't. I changed the spell to do what I needed. Turn to the next page."

Flipping the page, Luna read a spell the looked very much like the previous spell but key changes were made in several places. "Most unicorns can't do that. How were you able to accomplish this?"

"Well, after studying the spell for a while I realized how it utilized the magic to bring about the desired effect. Once I understood that I used to original spell as a template for the one I cast on Lyra and Bonbon." She informed her. "There were a few complications though."

"What sort of complications?"

"Well, shortly after her birth, Tootsie Flute began to age rapidly. I still don't know what the exact cause was, but after about a week I was able to stop it before it went any further." Twilight explained.

"How old is the little dear?" Luna asked.

"She's only about a year and half old."

"That can't be true." Luna said, shocked. "She had to be at least seven or eight years old."

"I promise you, she's only one and a half. The way she talks isn't a coincidence; she hasn't learned to pronounce some sounds correctly yet. In a few years, when her mind catches up with her body, she should be fine. Until then she's made good friends with Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, and Apple Bloom. They know about her condition and I'm sure they wouldn't allow her to come to any trouble." There was a rather hard knock at the door. "Come in." Twilight called out.

A fairly grumpy looking Scootaloo walked into the library with her pack practically dragging on the ground behind her. Luna hastily hid the book under Twilight's sofa. "Good morning dear, how are you?" Luna asked her.

"Fine." She huffed.

"What's the matter Scootaloo?" The Princess pried.

"You sent Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle on a Super Secret Cutie Mark Crusader Princess Mission and not me!" She cried.

Luna wrapped her right foreleg around the sad filly. "Scootaloo, I sent them because their missions called for stealth and silence. That's not you. You're different. You're more like Rainbow Dash, you're a mare of action!"

"Yeah!" She said, drying her tears.

"That's why I saved a super secret mission just for you."

"You did?" She asked excited.

"Yes, now listen closely. At exactly six tonight, the train from Appleoosa will arrive. On this train is a very special pony by the name of Braeburn. You remember him don't you?"

"Yeah, that's the guy Pinkie likes isn't it?"

"Correct. I'm not sure if you've ever seen him but you'll know him by his yellow coat and amber mane. He wears a brown vest and brown hat; his cutie mark is single red apple. Now, I need Pinkie Pie there when he gets off the train. Tell her that's it's really important and that I need her to be there. Don't tell her who it is though. We don't want to ruin the surprise now do we? Stay there, watch what happens then report back to me."

"Yes ma'am!"

"Scootaloo, where are Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle? You three normally go everywhere together." Twilight asked her.

"Oh, they got grounded for spying on Applejack and Fluttershy. They gave me their reports to give to you Princess Luna." Scootaloo pulled to scrolls out of her pack and gave them to Luna.

"Thank you dear now run along and remember, have Pinkie on the platform at six sharp."

"Yes Princess and thank you. You can count on me!" Scootaloo ran out of the library to prepare for her mission.

Luna grabbed the first scroll with her magic. "Did you want to hear this or did you want to get back to studying whatever it is you're studying and wont tell me about?"

Twilight closed her book and lay next to Luna. "I can take a break. Go ahead and read them out loud." Luna unbound the scroll and began to read aloud.

""First Report of Cutie Mark Crusader Apple Bloom.

Princess Luna. After I left your room I found Fluttershy talking to Twilight Sparkle. I told Fluttershy exactly what you said. Big Macintosh was sick and needs Fluttershy's help. Fluttershy asked, "If he's so sick why doesn't he go see a doctor?"

I told her that he hates doctors and is really stubborn.

Then she said. "Oh dear. You'd better take me to him right away." When we got out of the library she told me to get on her back and we flew all the way back to the farm. It was so much fun. When we got to the house I took her straight to my brothers room. While she went in, I ran into the closet down the hall. There was a board in the closet that had a gap in it that let me look into Big Macintosh's room. I found it once when I was playing hide and seek. I used it to watch for the pony that was seeking, that way I could move before they found me. I know it's cheating and I shouldn't but please don't tell anypony. Anyway, I sat there in the closet and watched what happened.

Brother was surprised. He asked "Fluttershy what are you doing here?" Fluttershy walked into the room and sat next to my brother's bed. She told him that I said he was really sick. "I'm not sick." He told her. Then he let out a really loud fart. I couldn't believe it. It was so funny. Then he apologized to Fluttershy. "I'm so sorry."

"It's okay," she told him. You can't help it." She walked over to his window, opened it and then walked back to his bed and sat down. "Why don't you feel well?" She asked him.

"I just got into some bad apples, that's all." He told her.

"Oh dear, you should really stay in bed then and get plenty of rest. Would you like me to make you some soup?" Fluttershy asked him.

My brother tried to sit up in bed. "I don't need some nursemaid looking after me." It looked like he was getting mad at her.

Fluttershy pushed him back down on the bed. It was kinda' scary when she talked to him. She said, "Now you look here mister. You're acting like a stubborn little colt. You're sick and whether you like it or not, you need rest and good wholesome food. You got that?" I never saw Fluttershy use The Stare on another pony before.

When my brother could talk again all he said was, "Yes'm."

"Good. Now how about that soup?"

"Yes please." Fluttershy went down to the kitchen to make food. I watched my brother after she left. He had a really silly grin on his face. When Fluttershy came back, Big Macintosh made sure he wasn't grinning any more. What a silly pony. Fluttershy made sure he ate all his soup then took the bowl back to the kitchen.

When she got back she sat by his bed again and asked. "Do you feel better now?"

"Yes, a little." He told her.

Fluttershy smiled. "That's good. I'm going to go and let you get some sleep then." Before she could make it to the door my brother called out to her.

"Uhm Fluttershy, could you maybe stay a while and talk with me? I think that would make me feel even better."

She said that she would be happy to and walked back over to the bed. They talked about the pretty normal stuff. How's the farm doing? How's Granny Smith? Any interesting new animals show up at the cottage? It was all pretty boring. I could tell big brother was working himself up to something. Then he finally got up the nerve to ask her. "Are you seeing anypony Fluttershy?"

Fluttershy's face turned as pink as her hair. "No, I'm not, I mean I see ponies all the time but not what you mean." Macintosh put his left front hoof on her right.

"It's okay, you don't have to answer if you don't want."

"No, I'm not dating anyone if that's what you mean. I'm not really into going out to places. I much prefer to stay at home with my animals or go do something with the girls. I'm not good in intimate settings."

"I think a night at home sounds perfect. You're more lovely than you give yourself credit." He lifted her right front hoof with his left and kissed it gently. Fluttershy blushed a lot. Who knew big brother could be so romantic. That's when they really started talking about what they like and dislike, favorites of this and that. They were laughing a lot.""

"The report seems to trail off after that." Luna said. "At the bottom of the page there's a message written in a flowery script." ""Thank you. Yours always, Fluttershy.""

"Oh that was so darling." Twilight remarked. "I guess they found Apple Bloom sleeping in the closet. Well, this explains why Fluttershy was so fierce during the battle with Nightmare Moon."

"I don't follow. What does that have to do with it?"

"When you make friends with Fluttershy, it's for keeps. She's normally very shy and withdrawn but when her friends are threatened, she can become a force of nature unto herself. You should have seen her stare down a full grown dragon."

"Wow. I'm glad she's on my side." Luna reflected. "Well, there's one more scroll do you have time?"

"Sure. I'd like to know how Applejack's date with Caramel went." Luna opened the other scroll and began to read.

""First Report of Cutie Mark Crusader Sweetie Belle.

I followed Applejack to the Sunflower Café and waited in some bushes. She seemed a little bored until Caramel showed up wearing a black stetson hat with a red band. In his mouth was a beautiful bouquet of red tulips. He carefully put them down in front of Applejack. "Howdy Caramel, are these for me?" She asked.

"Yeah. Rose over at the flower shop said you really liked tulips."

"She's right, I do like tulips. Thank you kindly. I like your hat, you should wear it more often."

"Thanks. I don't normally ware it but for special occasions and I couldn't think of a more special one than tonight."

Applejack smiled and smelled her flowers. "No pony ever gave me flowers before."

"I'm happy that I could be the first than." Caramel was playing it smooth. I don't know if Applejack realized that but they went to the table, Applejack set her bouquet to the side and ran through the menu. Not being overly fussy with what she ate. She ordered some apple fries and waited for Caramel to order. He finally decided on a clover and wild mustard salad. The ate there food in near silence. Neither was over given to talking over food. After they finished the real date seemed to start.

"How you like working on the farm so far? You've been with us for what, four, five years?"

"I've worked there for eight years. And I like it just fine. Plenty of fresh air and good exercise."

"Eight years? Wow. I could have sworn it was less than that. I 'm happy you like it here." Applejack seemed to be hesitating. I could tell she wanted to ask him something but couldn't quite get it out. I wonder if her brother is like this?

"Everything alright Applejack?" Caramel asked her.

"I was just thinking about something a good friend said to me. Do I intimidate you Caramel?"

"A little, yeah. I mean you're tough and not all froo froo like some of those other mares. You're not afraid to get your hooves dirty and I think you'd ruff up anyone who you think might hurt any member of your family. I think that's why I'm attracted to you."

Applejack started blushing. "You're perhaps the first boy to ever say that. Most stallions like the froo froo ponies. I just can't understand that." The conversation went on like this for a while. The night was dragging on when the café closed I followed them for a while back toward the farm. I overheard Applejack offer to walk Caramel back over to the bunk house where he was staying.""

"Well, what happened next?" Twilight asked her.

"I don't know, the report stops there." Luna said. I should really go over to Applejack's and Rarity's. The girls shouldn't be punished because of something I asked them to do. Will you be okay by yourself for a while?"

Twilight looked at her from behind her pile of books. I think I'll be fine."

"Twilight just please don't study too much and make yourself tired okay?" She asked as she walked out the door.

Luna took her time walking to Rarity's dress shop. She had always flown everywhere she needed to go. It was nice to slow down and appreciate the day. Walking through the town square, ponies would nod respectfully as she passed by. In the distance she saw Lyra and Bonbon talking to a gray mare with a yellow mane. She waved to them and smiled as the cheerfully waved back. 'So this is what it's like to be like everypony else. No pressures of court, no one bowing or scraping in front of you. It's nice.' She told herself. Turning her head she looked along her back where her wings once were. Even though she had told Twilight not to worry, she still missed her wings.

Finally reaching the boutique, she walked inside and bumped into Spike. "Oh, Spike I'm sorry, I didn't mean to bump into you. How are you this afternoon?"

"I'm doing fine Luna, thanks for asking. What brings you over this way?"

"I came to talk to you about Sweetie Belle. It's my understanding that she's been grounded for spying on Applejack's date last night."

"Yeah. Rarity wasn't happy when she heard about it and sent her to her room."

"I see. Well, I feel it's not right that she be punished for something I asked her to do."

"Something you asked her to do? I don't understand." Spike said.

"I was the one who asked her to spy on Applejack. I was hurt and I wanted to make sure her date went alright." Luna informed him.

"Really?" He asked. "She told us something like that but we thought she was playing another one of her Cutie Mark Crusader games. I'll go tell her she can go out and play. Thanks for coming over and letting me know. I'll talk to Rarity when she gets up from her nap with Garnet."

"Thanks Spike for understanding." Luna left the boutique and headed down the road and out of town toward Sweet Apple Acres Farm.

The Princess took her time walking to the apple farm. She loved the feeling of her sister sun as it's warmth soaked into her dark purple fur. A leisurely stroll down the road by herself was something she was unaccustomed to. The apple farm in question was less than a mile outside of town, so it didn't take long at all for her to walk the distance. Luna approached the house and gently knocked. A crestfallen young filly with a red bow answered the door. "Little Apple Bloom. Just the filly I wanted to see."

"Princess Luna! Why are you here?" She asked a little confused.

The Princess smiled at her. "You Cutie Mark Crusaders are my own little personal guards. You remember when I first came here, what I said to you three? I meant it. With that in mind, I can't very well let my captain get punished for following orders now can I?" Luna walked into the Apple family home, finding Applejack in the living room reading a book before dinner.

"Luna. What brings you around these parts?" Applejack asked.

"I've come to talk to you on a topic of some importance. It seems the captain of my junior personal guard has been wrongfully imprisoned. Can you please assist me in this matter?"

"Beg pardon'?" Apple Bloom came marching up next to the Princess and stood at attention. "I get you're meanin'."

"What does my captain stand accused of?"

"Captain Apple Bloom stands accused of spyin' and has been incarcerated in her room for the next two days."

"I must insist that you release her at once. I pledge to you that she was only following the orders of her Princess."

"When you put it like that." Applejack said looking down to her sister. "I will carry out your request immediately. Captain Apple Bloom. You are released from your confinement. Now go outside and play.

"Yay! Thank you Princess Luna!" Luna and Applejack fell into a fit of laughter.

"She really does look up to you Princess."

"Yes but look in her eyes. She may look up to me but that's only because I'm most likely the only pony outside her family that treats her and her two friends like they're vitally important. Yes, she may look up to me but you're her sister, she idolizes you." The clock on the wall had just finished striking six in the evening. "You might want to step back Applejack."

"Why would I want to do that?"

Luna smiled. "Five, four, three, two, one."

Pinkie Pie came screaming into the farmhouse. She ran right for the Princess and gave a hug that could easily have broken a rib. "Thank you, thank you, thank you. Party, my place, two hours, don't be late. All our friends are invited!" As fast as she appeared, she was gone.

"Looks like Braeburn showed up finally. I s'pose I should tell Caramel to make room in the bunkhouse. It's good for him to have some company out there instead of bein' by himself all the time."

"I heard he wasn't alone the other night." Luna said smiling.

Applejack blushed with embarrassment. "About that."

"I'm sorry Applejack. I just wanted to make sure everything went okay for you. I was too injured to check on you myself so I deployed my little Crusaders. I should be getting back to Twilight at the library. I don't like the thought of her being alone after what happened yesterday. I'm sure it was more draining on her than she lets on."

"You really do love her don't you?" Applejack asked.

"More than anything you can imagine but I'm worried about her."

"Nothin' serious I hope." Applejack said.

"She's has some guilt issues we need to work through. Has she been like this before?" Luna asked her.

"A few times. She obsesses over things from time to time. One time she thought she was late writing a friendship report to your sister and in the end she used a, I think it's called a want it need it spell. Not sure but I think that's what it was."

"She really did that? I thought Tia was exaggerating. That's a forbidden spell because it negates free will. She's not even supposed to know it."

"I don't know how she knew it but she used it. Got the whole town ruffin' each other up pretty good too. Princess Celestia had to step in to fix things." Applejack said.

"I remember, my sister was not happy that evening. Oh my, I really should get back to Twilight. Thanks for understanding about Apple Bloom; I'll see you at the party.

Back at the library, Twilight was putting the finishing touches on her studies when Luna came in the door. "Ah there you are. Did Pinkie find you?"

"Yes, and I have the bruised ribs to prove it. Sorry I wasn't back earlier. I stopped to talk to Lyra and Bonbon." Luna apologized.

"It's alright. Luna if you don't mind, there's something upstairs I wanted to show you."

"Sure Twilight what did you want to show me?"

"It's a surprise. Go ahead and wait in the bedroom and I'll be right there." The lavender unicorn told her.

Luna sat patiently on the bed waiting for Twilight, when she poked her head around the corner of the staircase. "Oh hey, there you are. What did you want to show me?"

Twilight slowly walked into the room her legs graced by a set of light purple silk socks. Luna was speechless. "Do you like them Princess?" She asked. The former alicorn stared at the unicorn, her mouth hanging open slightly. "I know I'm not as pretty as other ponies but I hope these make up for it."

Luna shook her head to clear the naughty images from her mind. "What are you talking about?"

Twilight fidgeted next to Luna. "It's just, you're so beautiful and I'm so plain. I just want to be pretty for you." She said, her socks starting to sag down around her legs.

Luna walked up and kissed her little lavender unicorn. "Twilight, you are the most beautiful unicorn I've ever met. You don't need socks, or makeup, or fancy shampoos and perfumes to make yourself attractive to me. I love you just the way you are." Luna said giving her a light kiss on the nose. "Come on, the party starts in half an hour and you don't want to be late do you? I don't think Pinkie would understand."

"Sure thing, let me get rid of these then before we go." Twilight said.

"Oh no, don't do that Twilight. I said you didn't need them to look pretty but you still look great in them."

The lavender unicorn blushed. "Okay. Well then, let me put them away. I just need to grab something else then we can go." While Luna walked down stairs, Twilight grabbed a scroll from her dresser and tucked it into her mane, hiding it from view. They trotted out of the library and walked together to Sugar Cube Corner. They could hear the music from the end of the block. "Pinkie must be going all out tonight."

"She has reason to. Braeburn's here and I have a feeling he won't be leaving." They walked into the store to find all their friends there. Applejack, Big Macintosh, Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, Rarity, Garnet, Spike, Fluttershy, Caramel, Lyra, Bonbon, Tootsie Flute, Dinky, Ditzy, Dr. Whooves, Rainbow Dash, and Soarin. Pinkie was bouncing around the room wearing Braeburn's hat. Braeburn was talking with his cousin's Applejack and Macintosh.

"We sure are glad you're here Braeburn. I know it must have been hard to leave Appleoosa." Applejack said.

"Yes, it was hard but when family needs help you don't ask questions you go." He said smiling watching Pinkie. "Of course there are some other benefits to the move."

Big Macintosh ruffled his mane. "You've got your hooves full with that one." Luna continued to walk through the party. So many happy ponies she couldn't help but have her spirits lifted as well. Lyra and Bonbon waved her over.

"Lyra, Bonbon, how are you tonight?" She asked.

"We're doing fine. We wanted you to meet our friends. This is Ditzy and her Daughter Dinky and this is Ditzy's friend Dr. Whooves. The Doctor actually delivered Tootsie Flute.

"Well, I wasn't given much of a choice about it now was I. I keep telling you ponies I'm not a medical doctor but no one listens."

"I'm pleased to meet you all." Luna said smiling.

Scootaloo came rushing up to Luna. "Princess I got that report for you!"

Luna took the scroll and read through it quickly. "Well done Crusader." Scootaloo smiled and ran back to be with her friends.

"What did it say? Twilight asked.

"Lets just say, Scootaloo needs to work on her writing because saying Pinkie was being mushy, doesn't quite cover the information I would have liked to get."

"She looks happy enough." Twilight said pointing to where Pinkie was standing next to Braeburn.

Luna used her magic to lightly tap a glass of punch to get everyone's attention. "I just wanted to say thank you to Pinkie for throwing such a wonderful party and I wanted to raise a toast to the bearers of the Elements of Harmony for without them I would not be here today." There was a resounding cheer.

"Twernt' nuthin' Princess." Applejack could be heard saying.

"The last few days have been very memorable for me. And there is something I want to say. Over the years, the six of you have learned a lot about friendship but this week I hope I was able to help you learn something about love. Just like friendship contains the Elements of Harmony. Love is comprised of it's own elements." She looked to each of her new friends in turn. "Initiative, to go after the things you want. Courage, to accept love offered to you and to offer it back. Empathy, for another despite any embarrassment it may cause you, and sincerity in your emotions for that special somepony in your life. Enthusiasm is absolutely necessary in any loving relationship." Luna could see Pinkie nuzzling with Braeburn in the back. Luna smiled; Pinkie was still wearing that brown hat of his. The smile faded from her lips as she looked along her back then she gazed into the welcoming eyes of her own lover. "Finally, at any time you may be called upon to Sacrifice to protect the one you love. Initiative, Courage, Empathy, Sincerity, Enthusiasm and the willingness to Sacrifice, they are the elements of love and without them it cannot take hold and thrive."

As the evening wore on, Luna found herself feeling down more and more. She slipped out the back door and wandered the streets towards a hill she could see on the north side of town. She didn't know how long she sat there until Twilight sat down next to her. "Two bits for your thoughts."

"I'm sorry Twilight. I just needed some air."

"What's wrong Luna?" Twilight asked concerned.

"I can't hide anything from you can I? I'm sorry Twilight. I know I said that I didn't mind loosing my wings but it feels like a part of me has been ripped away. I know they're gone but I can still feel them. I miss them."

I know the feeling. Ever since I gave Rainbow Dash her wings back after fighting Nightmare Moon, I've felt something missing. I can still remember the feeling of every feather, the feeling of moving through the air. I can only imagine how you must feel having been born with them, it must be so much worse. But, it's good you can still feel them, it'll make things easier."

"What are you talking about? How can that be good?" Twilight reached into her mane and pulled out the scroll she stashed there earlier. Unraveling it, she held it up for Luna to read. "How to give Luna her wings back. Is this what I think it is?"

"Yes. I felt absolutely horrible about what happened. I wanted so bad to help. I used an existing spell and altered it to give you wings close to what you used to have. They won't be exact but it'll be close. Even better the spell lasts for six months instead of three days and you'll be able to do what every other pegasus pony can do. But I'll need your help to cast it, it requires a lot of energy."

"I'll do what I can." Luna lowered her head and touched her horn to Twilight's. Linking their magic's, Twilight began casting her spell. Luna watched in her mind as the magic took hold and did its work. It was an amazing gift her lover was giving her. She didn't want to leave her behind. Paying close attention to what the magic was doing; she copied the spell and reflected it back at Twilight. There was a blinding flash of light and both ponies collapsed from the exertion of magic. Slowly getting to their feet they both heard a loud snap that seemed to echo around the hill. They shook off the sudden noise but for some reason they both felt as if their own personal magic reserves had been dramatically increased.

"Luna, it worked! You're wings are back!"

Luna looked along her back and it was like she never lost her wings in the first place. "Oh Twilight thank you."

"I actually changed them a little, open your wings and let the night air blow over them." Twilight watched intently as the wings slowly unfolded. As the wind blew over the primary feathers, they appeared semi translucent and began to glow a light violet color. "It worked! Oh wonderful!"

"Oh Twilight, they're beautiful! Thank you so much. Do yours do the same thing?" Luna asked her, smiling.

"My wings. What are you talking about?" Twilight looked behind her and gasped in shock. "But how?"

"I saw what you were doing and copied the spell." Luna nuzzled against Twilight. "I couldn't stand the though of leaving you behind on the ground. Care to go flying with me? Can you still remember how?"

"Yes, and I'd love to." Both ponies leapt into the air flying high over Ponyville. Looking behind them, the translucent glowing feather left a purple and violet trail behind Twilight and Luna. They wheeled and rolled never once leaving each others side.

Back on the ground ponies had started to gather. Pinkies party emptied out into the square to watch the pair flying through the night sky. The light beaming behind the two ponies created a bright spiraling pattern that arched its way across the sky.

As the ponies watched their acrobatics, Scootaloo tapped Rainbow Dash on the leg. "Hey Rainbow, what's going on up there?"

Rainbow looked down at her adopted daughter. "I just found out from Pinkie, Twilight used her magic to give Luna her wings back and Luna cast the spell on Twilight too." The shear beauty of what she was watching was bringing tears to her eyes.

Soarin rubbed his cheek against Rainbow's. "They're dancing Scootaloo. Twilight and the Princess are dancing."

Luna looked over to Twilight, watching the sheer delight of flying for the first time shining in her eyes. It was at that moment She realized an essential truth about her own nature. Ponies may have lived and played in the day Celestia brought forth. But her nights were made for lovers.

Unexpected Developments

Luna the Matchmaker
Chapter 6 "Unexpected Developments"
By Steven Little
My Little Pony is © Hasbro.

Heavy black clouds hung over Ponyville, obscuring the morning sun as it rose to start a new day. Strong gusting winds blew rain horizontally, the drops of water exploding against any obstacle in their way. A cacophonous crash of thunder caused the ground to tremble. The branches of the tree that housed the Ponyville library groaned as the weather’s onslaught beat against the arboreal building. The torrent of wind and rain caused the balcony door of the library’s master bedroom to slam open, waking Twilight Sparkle from her inebriated slumber. The lavender unicorn mare stumbled out of bed, hitting the wooden floor with a hallow thud. Composing herself as best she could, she walked over to the balcony and shut the doors, wincing at the soreness in her hindquarters and the throbbing in her head. Twilight sat there by the doors for a moment, watching the pony she loved through slightly bleary eyes. She could still remember the day Luna told her that she’d stay with her in Ponyville. Celestia was happy but certain members of court along with the new head of the royal Guard, Commander Stormwing, objected but Princess Celestia set them straight.

Luna stirred in bed when she couldn’t feel her unicorn next to her. “Twilight, is everything alright?” Princess Luna asked from the warmth and comfort of their bed, yawning.

“Everything’s fine, the storm just blew open the doors is all.” She said, shaking her wings out to straighten her wind tussled feathers. Walking slowly, the unicorn staggered to the bed and crawled back in, slipping herself between the purple satin sheets. “Ow, my head hurts; why’d you let me drink that much?”

“Don’t blame me, you’re the one that wanted to play the dictionary drinking game last night.” The midnight blue unicorn stated, her own head aching.

Now that Twilight was more awake, she could feel a strong and familiar yearning building inside her. Wrapping her forelegs around her lover, she pulled herself closer to the Princess. Luna reciprocated by folding her wings around the lavender mare. The midnight blue unicorn loved embracing her mate like this. Even in her hung-over state Luna could tell something was off. Something just didn’t feel normal. Her train of thought was interrupted by Twilight nuzzling against her, nipping at the nape of her neck. “Mmm, Twilight, don’t stop.” The royal unicorn moaned.

“The thought never crossed my mind love.” Twilight said. The lavender unicorn gasped as Luna messaged the star shaped cutie mark on her flanks.

Luna smiled. “My, aren’t we sensitive this morning.”

“I’ll show you sensitive.” Twilight said mischievously, as she ran her right front hoof down Luna’s chest, across her stomach and down between her thighs. Both mares stared at each other in shock. Twilight’s hoof came in contact with something that ought not be there. The mares threw off the blanket they were under. There, between the Princess’s haunches was a stallion’s scrotum, prepuce, and emerging colthood. Startled by her appearance, Luna scooted back suddenly and fell off the side of the bed.

Twilight rushed across the bed. “Luna, are you okay?”

“Yes, I’m fine.” Luna said. Sitting up, the Princess noticed something poking out from under the bed. Sliding it out slowly, she shook her head when she read the title of the book. “The Big Book of Sex Magic.” She said under her breath. “Twilight, darling, how do you feel about foals?”

“Oh no, don’t tell me…”

“Afraid so.” She said holding up the thick spell book with a black cover. “That is, unless you can think of another way I could have a stallion’s, uhm, appendage. I can’t think of a better explanation especially since you’re obviously in heat again and you just came out of estrus two weeks ago.”

“Trust me, I’ve noticed.” She said. “Well, this explains why my hindquarters are so sore.” Twilight flopped back on the bed. “I can’t believe this! How could I have been so stupid as to cast a spell while drunk?! What’s worse, I involved you in my recklessness.”

“Twilight, I’ve read the spell. Both parties have to be willing or the spell doesn’t work. It’s apparent the neither of us can remember last night but either you or me brought it up and we must have both agreed to it.” The lavender unicorn was breathing heavily, holding her aching head in her front hooves. “Twilight, what are we going to do about this?”

“I don’t know if there’s anything we can do about this.” She said. Luna was shaking visibly. “Hey, are you okay?”

“I don’t know. I’m a little scared right now. We’ve only been together for three years, are we really ready for this?”

Twilight patted the space next to her on the bed. Luna crawled back in and lay next to her. “It’s going to be okay, I promise.” She said, cuddling up to the midnight blue unicorn. “I hadn’t planned on talking to you about it yet, but I’ve been thinking about this a lot lately.”

“You have?” Luna asked. “How long have you been thinking about children?”

“The last few months actually. I just didn’t know how to broach the subject.”

“Talk to me Twilight, why the interest in a foal all of the sudden?” Luna asked, stroking her mate’s mane.

“I’m not getting any younger Luna and you’re not immortal anymore. I want us to be able to know our grandchildren before we depart this world. I always assumed we’d have a foal sometime I just wanted to know when.”

“I wished you would have said something before we had this mess to deal with.” Luna regretted her words the second she said them.

Twilight pushed herself slightly away from the Princess and looked her in the eye. “You mean, you don’t want to have a foal with me?” She asked, her eyes filling with tears.

Luna hugged the mare tightly. “Of course I do sweetheart, I just wished we had this conversation while we were both sober and could recall everything.”

Twilight begrudgingly accepted the answer and nuzzled back against her marefriend. “So, it’s obvious to me that we already, did the deed. What now?”

“Before we do anything, I think we should be sure you’re pregnant first.”

“A simple pregnancy test will prove that but from my experience with Lyra and Bonbon, it’s almost certain that I am. Do we tell everypony or do we wait?”

“I think for now we should keep it to close friends and family. At the very least we should tell my sister, she’d be overjoyed to know about a new member of the family. I think we should tell our friends too and then see where it goes from there before we let anypony else know. I’m afraid of what anypony else would say. Even if I’m not an alicorn anymore there is still a level of decorum expected of me and getting another mare pregnant is not one of them. I don’t want you to misunderstand, I love you and I will love this new life we made together but I’m afraid of what others might say.”

Twilight kissed her mate. “I understand. As long as I’m with you, I’ll never let anything happen to you ever again.”

“I love you Twilight.”

Twilight wasn’t listening anymore; she was busy nuzzling against her lover. “You know, it’s a shame neither of us remember what happened last night.”

“What?!” Luna asked, shocked at Twilight’s comment. The midnight blue unicorn looked down at her mate lying next to her. Twilight’s face was flush and she was breathing heavily.

“I’m sorry Luna, I can’t fight it anymore. I need you.” Twilight said as she wrapping her forelegs around Luna and kissed her passionately.

Breaking the kiss briefly, Luna rubbed her soft velvet nose against Twilight’s. “You have nothing to apologies for my love.”

Twilight was still breathing heavily. “In that case, since you still have that thing for at least another twelve hours, why don’t you come over here and show me what all those other mares are raving about?”

===============================================================

It took most of the morning but Rainbow Dash and the rest of the Ponyville weather team finally cleared away the remainder of the clouds from the previous night's storm. Clearing up the last small cloud, the cyan blue pegasus saw Princess Luna and Twilight walking by Sugar Cube Corner. “Hey guys! How are you doing this morning, or is it afternoon now?”

“Good afternoon Rainbow Dash.” Luna said with a smile. “That was some storm last night.”

“Yeah, sorry about that. It kind of got out of control a little but we made sure it wouldn’t cause any major damage.” Rainbow explained.

“Hey Dash, do you think it’s possible for you and Soarin to meet us later at Sugar Cube Corner? We have something to tell both of you and the rest of our friends.” Twilight asked.

“No problem Twilight, what time?” She asked.

“In about three hours. Would that be okay?” The light purple unicorn asked.

“Sure thing, we’ll be there.” She said as she soared off after the rest of the weather team.

Luna looked to her mate. “Do you really think it will take that long?”

“I don’t think so but their’s no certainty on how long we might wait or how many other ponies may be ahead of us.”

“Alright. Well then, let’s go see if you’re a mother.” Luna said.

“Hey, if I’m a mom, so are you.” Twilight informed her.

===============================================================

Fluttershy and Big Macintosh walked into the lobby of Sugar Cube Corner with Caramel and Applejack, and greeted their friends. “Mornin’ Braeburn, Soarin. You boys know what this is about?” Big Mac asked.

“I’m as clueless as you are. Twilight sent a letter to Pinkie that said she and I were supposed to be here this afternoon.” Braeburn said.

“Rainbow told me the same thing. She talked with Twilight and the Princess earlier and they asked her to bring me here.”

“We woke up to a letter on our dresser saying the same thing.” Bonbon said, Lyra nodding in agreement.

“We got a letter too.” Fluttershy said. “Where’s Rainbow Dash and Pinkie?” The two ponies in question came trotting into the room with a tray of confections balanced between them.

“Hey guys, check it out, rainbow cupcakes!” The pegasus said as she and Pinkie placed a tray of cupcakes with rainbow frosting on the table in front of the friends.

“I think I’ll pass.” Saorin said.

“Don’t you want to have a little rainbow cake?” Pinkie asked.

“Uh, no that’s okay I’ll have some later.” He said looking at his marefriend. Rainbow Dash blushed.

Rarity and Spike walked into the confectioners with a hurried look on their faces. Garnet, their three year old son was walking beside them, staring in awe at the tray of cupcakes on the table. “Hello all. I assume you’re all here for the same reason?” Rarity asked. The ponies in the room all nodded.

“I hope Twilight hurries; we still have to get packed for Philydelphia.” Spike said as he handed one of the cupcakes to his son. The other ponies in the sweet shop smiled and laughed softly as the very young unicorn buried his face into the treat.

“He likes sweets almost as much as I do.” Pinkie Pie commented.

“That reminds me, could you take him while we’re gone? I promised Sweetie Belle she could have her friends over while we’re gone and I don’t think she’ll have time to watch Garnet, he’s become such a hooffull.”

“Sure Rarity, Brasy and I would love to watch him while you’re gone.” Pinkie said picking the foal up and wiping his face.

Twilight and Luna walked into the store smiling brightly. “I don’t see Ditzy or the Doctor. Does anypony know where they are?” Twilight asked.

“I think Ditzy had to cover somepony’s shift at the post office.” Rainbow Dash said.

“We can inform them later if you want.” Luna said.

“Inform them of what? What goin’ on Twilight?” Applejack asked.

“I’m pregnant!” The lavender unicorn shouted happily.

“Yes! I knew it!” Lyra hollered out.

A pair of eyes had been watching the entire scene play out inside the sweet shop, taking in everything. The pegusus they belonged to watched as the Princess and her unworthy consort were embraced and congratulated by the other ponies in the shop. The display disgusted him. As soon as he was sure he had what was required, the mysterious pony vanished into the shadows.

===============================================================

The sun was starting to set and the streetlights of Cantrlot began to flicker to life. Down below Canterlot Castle housed the royal dungeons where no light could reach, a solitary unicorn guard and a mottled pegasus stallion marched down the corridor of cells. The guard approached the cell at the end of the row and banged his hoof against the bars. “Prisoner four five two eight, you have a visitor.”

A ragged unicorn stallion rolled off the cot in his three by three meter cell. “Thank you dear sir. You may go now; my associate and I have much to discus.”

The guard sneered at the prisoner and stalked down the hall. “You have ten minutes, don’t waste them.” He called back.

Both stallions watched the guard walk down to corridor and around the corner. “Report. Did you get what I needed?”

“Yes my Prince. It is exactly as you said. Princess Luna and her concubine have produced an offspring.”

“I knew it, I knew it was only a matter of time before that traitor betrayed her station as well as her ponies and now we have this unworthy offspring as proof of this perversion of the crown. You see me faithful lieutenant, this is what happens when you let females run things.”

“Do we move now then?”

“No, not yet. We have to let the other one slip. I already know her favorite statue is empty. Her demon will inevitably show up and when they tip their hoof, I’ll be there.”

“But, my Prince, how long must we allow you to languish here?” He asked.

“Patience my dear Shadow. If one thing this place has taught me, it’s patience. I’ll be let out of here legally soon enough; until then we wait.” The two stallions could hear the guard returning. “Be patient my faithful subject and soon we will be elevated to our proper place in this world.”

The guard returned and escorted the prisoner’s guest toward the exit of the cellblock. Inside the dark dungeon cell the prisoner smiled for the first time in four years, his light blue eyes shining brightly behind his sullied blond mane.

===============================================================

Back in Ponyville two fillies were having a sleepover in the apartment above the Carousel Boutique. Scootaloo tossed her sleeping bag in the corner of Sweetie Belle’s bedroom. “I can’t believe Spike and Rarity are letting you have a sleepover while they’re away in Philidelphia.” The orange pegasus said.

“Rarity didn’t want to but Spike talked her into it.” She said. “It’s too bad Applebloom got sick, I was hoping we could all work on getting our cutie marks during the sleep over. We’re going to be graduating from school soon and we’re still blank flanks. I’m starting to think we’ll never discover our special talents.”

Scootaloo bumped the teenage unicorn with her shoulder. “Hey, don’t start talking like that. Remember when I thought I’d never learn to fly right? Now look at me, captain of the Junior Varsity Speedster team.”

Sweetie Belle pushed back against her friend. “I guess you’re right. Well, there are plenty of other things for us to do.” She said, trying to change the subject.

“So, what do you want to do?” The orange pegasus asked.

The white unicorn’s stomach grumbled loudly. “I think we should have dinner; Spike said he left something for us in the fridge.” She said. “Race you to the kitchen!” The two teenagers raced out of the room and down the hall. Just as Sweetie Belle was about to enter the kitchen, Scootaloo grabbed the unicorn’s tail with her mouth and pulled her back so she could sprint to the finish line. “Hey, that’s cheating!”

“What are you, a rule book?”

“Better than being a chicken!” Sweetie Belle shouted.

“I’m not a chicken!” Scootaloo yelled as she launched herself at the unicorn. The two teenage mares rolled around on the living room floor. They came to a stop with Scootaloo standing over her, her wings spread out triumphantly. “Ha ha, I win!”

“Oh yeah?” Sweetie Belle said as she tickled the pegasi’s sides with her hooves. Scootaloo tickled the unicorn back, both of them laughing heavily. Sweetie Belle moved her hooves up her friend’s sides, tickling at the base of Scootaloo’s wings, between the small downy feathers. The pegasi’s eyes grew wide with shock as her wings shot straight up. She quickly stepped off the unicorn, shaking her wings to force them to go down.

“Are you okay? I didn’t hurt you did I?” The unicorn asked, concerned.

Scootaloo blushed. “I’m okay, really; that spot is really sensitive on a pegasus.” She said, folding her wings. The orange pegasus was intentionally averting her eyes away from her friend. “So, about that food?”

“You sure you’re okay?” Sweetie Belle asked, picking herself off the floor.

“Yeah, I’m just hungry I guess.” She said as she walked into the kitchen and sat at the dining room table. The white unicorn knew something was bothering her friend and promised herself that she’d find out what it was before the night was out.

Sweetie Belle followed her friend into the kitchen and opened the refrigerator door. Rummaging around she found a baking pan covered in foil with a note attached to the front. She pulled the container from the refrigerator and set it on the table next to Scootaloo. “What’s this?” The orange pegasus asked. Grabbing the note from the pan, she began to read aloud. “Dear Sweetie Belle, I made these for your sleepover. I hope your friends like them as much as you do. Love Spike. P.S. Reheat in the oven at three hundred fifty degrees for fifteen minutes. It’s not as good as freshly made but I think it should be fine.”

Sweetie Belle tore the foil from the pan revealing six green roundish objects with a white and orange topping. “Alright, my favorite!” She shouted.

Scootaloo poked one of the objects cautiously with a hoof. “What are they?” She asked.

“Dragon Peppers!” Sweetie Belle said enthusiastically. “Spike mixes rice with cheese, broccoli, carrots, mushrooms and cauliflower then he stuffs it all into bell peppers and roasts them with his own dragon fire.”

“Wow!”

“I know, this is goanna’ be the best sleepover ever, even if Apple Bloom can’t be here.” The white unicorn said as she set the oven to the appropriate temperature. Sweetie Belle walked back to the table and sat down next to her friend. “So, we have a few minutes to wait till the oven’s ready; are you going to tell me what happened back in the living room or are you still going to pretend nothing’s going on?”

“What are you talking about?” Scootaloo asked.

“Oh come on Scooty, I think I know when something is bothering one of my best friends.” The oven preheat buzzer went off and the white unicorn walked over and placed the tray of peppers in the oven and set the timer. “Well?” She asked sitting back down at the table.

“It’s noting, it’s stupid, I don’t want to talk about it.” Scootaloo said, turning away from her friend.

Sweetie Belle put a hoof on her friends shoulder. “Hey, come on you can talk to me. It can’t be that bad.”

The orange pegasus shrugged off her hoof. “Leave it alone Belle. I told you, I don’t want to talk about it.” She said through the tears forming in her eyes.

“Hey, don’t cry.” She said softly. "Please tell me what’s going on, please?”

Scootaloo spun around and faced her friend, the tears rolling down her cheeks. “I like you okay!” She yelled. “I sort of really like you. You know, like more than just a friend.” She got up from the table and walked toward the living room. “I’ll leave if you want me to.” She said, her back to the unicorn.

“It took you long enough. Was it really that hard?”

The orange pegasus spun around to see her friend smiling sweetly at her. “You knew? You knew and didn’t say anything?”

The oven timer went off and Sweetie Belle got up and used a potholder in her mouth to carefully pull the pan from the oven and set it on the stovetop. “Yup, I’ve known for more than a little while now; ever since Rainbow Dash said she’d adopt you. Remember that talk we had the day after about some stuff you said while you were half asleep? When you denied everything I asked Twilight and the Princess what I should do about it. I was worried about you, a lot was going on. Princess Luna said I should let you make the first move and only confront you about it if things started to get bad or awkward.”

“So all this time… And now, I mean; do you…?” She half asked, wiping the tears from her face.

“Yeah, I like you too, I was worried I’d be an old mare before you said anything. Dinners ready by the way, you still hungry?”

“Yeah.” Scootaloo said, smiling.

Dinner was quick but Sweetie Belle declared it a success. Scootaloo enthusiastically stated that the Dragon Peppers were the best thing she’d ever tasted. “Come on, let’s go into the living room and talk.”

“About what?” The pegasus asked.

“What do you think?” The white unicorn asked. “You didn’t say more than two words at dinner and if you think I’m letting you off the hook that easily, you have another thing coming Scooty.” As the two teenagers walked into the living room, the doorbell rang. “I’ll get it, you just sit there and wait for me, and I’ll be right back.”

Sweetie Belle walked downstairs and opened the door. “Special delivery for a Rarity Filigree.” Ditzy Doo said.

“Mrs. Ditzy, why are you here so late?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“Oh hi Sweetie. One of the other mailponies was sick so I had to cover his shift. I’m really mad I missed Twilight’s announcement but Applejack told me and I’m really happy for her.”

“I’m not quite sure how it happened but I’m glad Twilight’s going to be a mommy. Either way, Rarity’s out of town right now but I think you have the wrong address, our last name is Swanson not Filigree.”

“Are you sure? I’ve picked up letters from here that were signed Filigree and Rarity has received letters with the same name.” The gray mailmare said. “I think you should hold onto the package for your sister. When she comes home, if it’s not for her, just let me know and I’ll pick it up.”

“Okay Mrs. Ditzy.” Sweetie Belle took the package from Ditzy and went back inside. Once upstairs, she set the package on the edge of the table.

“What’s that?” Scootaloo asked.

“I don’t know. It says it’s for somepony named Rarity Filigree.” Sweetie Belle told her.

“But I thought you’re last name is Swanson.”

“It is.” The unicorn said, walking around the table. Just before she sat down on the couch, she accidentally bumped the table, knocking the box off the edge.

“That can’t be good.” Scootaloo said as she picked up the box and set it back on the table. “You don’t think there’s anything breakable in here do you?”

“I don’t think so.” She said looking over the box. “I don’t see a fragile stamp and all it says on the box is our address and a return address to Canterlot but no street number or name or anything.”

“You think we should open it?” Scootaloo asked. “What if something’s broken?”

“Well…” Sweetie Belle said with a mischievous look on her face. “It would be just plain wrong if my sister ordered something and it arrived ruined. I think it’s our duty to make sure it arrived intact.” The white unicorn ran to the kitchen and grabbed a knife and walked back in. She very carefully cut the tape, set the knife down, and opened the box. The entire box was filled with papers, files, and various little toys and knickknacks. Sweetie Belle lifted out a fancy looking pacifier. “What’s all this? It looks like baby stuff. Now I know this isn’t for Rarity.”

“Wouldn’t be so sure about that.” Scootaloo said as she flipped through various pages of documents. “A lot of this looks like doctor files and they all have Rarity’s name on them.”

“That doesn’t mean it’s my sister though.” The white unicorn said.

“No, but this does.” She said, sliding a picture over to her.

“It, it is Rarity, is that…?”

“You were so cute as a baby.” Scootaloo said smiling.

“That’s really me? Look how young my sister is, she can’t be much older than us.” Scootaloo didn’t say anything. “Hey Scooty, look how messed up her mane is. Scooty…” The pegasus wasn’t responding. Sweetie Belle looked over at her friend. Scootaloo sat there staring at a rectangular piece of paper she held in her hooves. Her eyes were wide, small tears rolling down her cheeks. “Scooty, what’s wrong?”

The pegasus looked up from the paper to her friend, then back to the paper. Panicking, she hid the paper behind her back. “It’s nothing.” She said between tears.

“Scootaloo, are you alright, what’s the matter?” The unicorn asked.

“I can’t, I don’t… I can’t tell you.” She said, wiping her face.

“Why not? Scooty, what was on that paper?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“It’s nothing, please just forget about it. That paper… it’s not true, it can’t be.” Sweetie Belle used what magic she had to levitate the paper out of Scootaloo’s grasp and floated it over to her. The orange pegasus leapt at her. “No! Sweetie Belle, please don’t read it!”

The white unicorn dodged to the side, avoiding her friend and looked at the paper. Along the top of the paper, it read Mainhattan General Hospital. Below the header was a smaller title, Certificate of Live Birth. “It’s a birth certificate.” Sweetie Bell continued to read but what she saw next stopped her cold.

““Full name of Foal First: Sweetie Belle Middle: Angela Last: Filigree
Father of Record: N/A
Mother of Record First: Rarity Middle: Platinum Last: Filigree””

Sweetie Belle dropped the birth certificate and dived into the box quickly reading a page, throwing it aside then reaching for another. “It can’t be true, it just can’t be!” The frantic unicorn pulled out picture after picture of Rarity with and infant Sweetie Belle cradled in her hooves. At the bottom of the box was a sealed envelope with Rarity’s name on it. She ripped open the envelope at started reading.

'Rarity,

This will be the last time I converse with you. You refused to give up the baby for adoption and have instead decided to go it alone. Get used to that. You are alone. Your father and I will not be there to bail you out. I warned you and I already tried to contact Foal Protection Services but they say you don’t have a daughter just a sister. I have no idea how you were able to convince them of such an obvious deception, I suppose you had Carlton lie for you but I just don’t care anymore.

How could you do this to us? Your father and I have been mortified ever since you told us you were pregnant. The whole town knows that you not only had a foal out of wedlock but you had one with a lowly earth pony. How could you? Were you so stupid as to not even consider your father and I, what this would do to us? We can barely show our faces in polite society anymore. Everywhere we go there's nothing but gossip about us and our low class, worthless, stupid child.

I searched around the house and found everything of yours that was left. Be happy that I chose to mail them to you instead of burning them. Goodbye daughter. May you be able to live with your poor decisions.'

“It’s true, it’s all true. How could she lie to me like that?” Sweetie Belle looked up at Scootaloo with a mixture of despair and uncertainty. “Was it me? Did I do something wrong? Was she ashamed of me? Didn’t she want me?” She asked.

Scootaloo hugged her tightly. “I’m sorry Belle, I’m so so sorry.”

“Why didn’t she want me? Wasn’t I good enough to be her, her… I think I’m going to be sick.” Sweetie Belle broke out of Scootloo’s embrace and ran to the bathroom, slamming the door behind her. The pegasus could hear her friend throwing up her dinner.

Scootaloo looked through the files and pictures trying to find answers for the unicorn. She looked intently at all the pictures. Each one showed a very happy Rarity with her baby. The files she read were all medical files but one was a petition for adoption. The paper work had been filled out and signed by Rarity’s mother as the preparer but down at the bottom somepony wrote that the baby would not be given for adoption due to the mothers insistence that she keep the foal. ‘So Rarity did want to keep Sweetie Belle.’ She picked up the letter the unicorn had read and looked it over. ‘What a bitch!’ She thought to herself. ‘Wait a minute. Scootaloo read the letter again, paying special attention to the first part.

Scootaloo ran to the bathroom and knocked on the door. “Sweetie Belle, are you okay, can I come in? Sweetie?” She pushed the door open to find Sweetie Belle hugging the toilet. The pegasus walked over to her quietly sobbing friend. The white unicorn sat back against the tub; vomit soaked her chin, neck, and chest. She walked past her friend to the tub and flung open the shower curtain. Reaching over, she started the warm water from the shower then went to pick up her friend from the floor. “Come on, up we go. It’s time to get you cleaned up.” She said.

“Don’t want to.” Sweetie Belle said.

“Yeah well I didn’t ask if you wanted to.” Scootaloo said as she dragged her friend into the tub and under the shower’s warm water and rinsed the bile from her coat and down the drain. Making sure there was no debris in the tub, she put in the plug, turned the shower over to the faucet and turned up the heat. As the tub filled with water, Scootaloo grabbed the bottle of shampoo, popped the cap and worked the soap into the unicorns fur. “Don’t worry, I’ll get you cleaned up in no time.”

“What’s the point? My own mother doesn’t want me.” She said.

“That’s not true Belle.” Scootaloo said. “What in Equstria gives you the idea she didn’t want you?”

“I don’t know.” She said sadly. “There has to be a reason why she told everpony I was her sister. She didn’t want me as her foal but she couldn’t get rid of me either. I’m fourteen years old, almost fifteen; if she really wanted me she’d have…”

The orange pegasus cute her off. “Belle, I looked at those files and pictures. Did you know that Rarity’s mother tried to force her to give you up? She refused. Every one of those pictures shows Rarity very happy holding you. She loved you Belle, she still does; I’m sure of it.”

“Really?” The white unicorn asked.

“Yeah, when we’re done here I’ll show you.” She said, carefully rubbing the soap into the fur of the unicorn’s neck. “I think I know why Rarity told everypony what she did and treated you like her sister.”

“Why, why would she do that?” Sweetie Belle asked.

"That letter from Rarity’s mom, she said that she told Foal Protection Services about Rarity. Your sister, I mean, your mom convinced them you were her sister so they left you two alone. If she didn’t they would have tried to take you away. I think Rarity lied to them, to you, to everypony just to make sure nopony would take you away from her.” She said turning the water off.

“By why would they do that? Rarity has almost always been nice to me. Sure we had a few problems here and there but nothing major.” Sweetie Belle said.

“Remember the pictures, what you said? Rarity looked as old as us. She was only fourteen or fifteen when you were born. Do you really think they would let somepony our age raise a foal by themselves? I think this was the only way Rarity could keep you with her.” Scootaloo said. “So, what are you going to do about all this? Are you going to confront Rarity about it?”

“I don’t know. I don’t know what I should do.” She said.

Scootaloo leaned in and kissed the unicorns cheek. “No matter what you decided to do, I’ll always support you and back you up, okay?”

Sweetie Belle blushed. She turned to her friend and kissed her lips, both ponies sinking into the warm water.

===============================================================

Inside the Ponyville library, four months later, twelve mares hid in the dark; glued to the front windows. “Where are they? Ditzy are you sure you saw them coming home?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“Sure I’m sure. Maybe they stopped for a snack or something.” The gray pegasus supposed.

“I see them, I see them, and they’re comin’ this way!” Apple Bloom said excitedly.

“Okay; everypony hide and when they come in and turn on the lights, we jump out and yell, surprise!” Pinkie Pie said.

“Pinkie, I hate to break it to ya’ but this ain’t a surprise party, it’s a baby shower.” Applejack told her.

“It’s still a surprise.” Ditzy and Pinkie said in unison. They all heard the latch on the door click loudly and hid wherever they could.

“I’m sure it’s fine Twilight. If there was a problem I’m certain my sister would say something.” Luna said as the entered the library.

Suddenly, the lights came on and twelve mares jumped out of nowhere and yelled, surprise. Twilight and Luna looked around the brightly lit room, decorated with blue and pink streamers and balloons. “What, what is all this?” Twilight asked.

“It’s your baby shower deary.” Mrs. Cake said. “Sorry it’s a bit late but we had to explain to Pinkie the difference between a birthday party and a baby shower.”

“I hope this is okay Twilight, we just wanted to celebrate your foal with you and the Princess.” Fluttershy said.

“It’s wonderful Fluttershy thank you, thank you everypony.” Twilight said. “I just wish I had a chance to eat before the party, I’m not really hungry for cake and sweets right now; sorry.”

“Well that’s okay Twilight, we’ve got all sorts of stuff here.” Lyra said.

Luna pointed toward the buffet set up against the far wall. “Hey Twilight look, melon.”

“Oh goody!” She said as she made a bee line for the orbs of fruit.

Off in the distance Rarity could be heard arguing with Sweetie Belle. “Leave me alone Rarity, I told you earlier that we were going to a sleep over at the clubhouse.” The young unicorn said.

“But you girls don’t have to leave now, do you?” The older white unicorn asked. “I thought you girls would enjoy a party.”

“What do you care, it’s not like you’re my mom or anything! Stop trying to act like her!” Sweetie Belle shouted before running out of the library, followed closely by Scootaloo and Apple Bloom.

Rarity moved to chase after her but Spike put a claw up to stop her. “Don’t Rarity, let her go. Whatever phase this is she’s going through, it’s clear she wants to be alone with her friends.”

“But, what she said, you heard what she said.” Rarity said, choking back tears.

“Is everything okay?” Princess Luna asked. “What’s wrong with Sweetie Belle and my other Crusaders?”

“I don’t know Luna.” Spike said. “Ever since we got back from that last show in Philydelphia she’s been distant, withdrawn. The only ponies she talks to anymore is you and the other crusaders. The other two aren't much better, is there any way you can talk to her, try and find out what’s going on? I’ve tried but she won’t even talk to me.”

“Alright, you two stay here with Twilight and I’ll go talk to them. If something is bothering my little Crusaders, I’ll get to the bottom of it.” Luna told them before leaving the library.

Spike led Rarity over to one of the sofas in the pit where Twilight was happily munching away on melon, surround by the other pony mothers at the party. “I’ll be fine Spike, I promise. Why don’t you go hang out with the boys at the farm? I’m sure Big Mac and the others are having quite the time by now.”

“Okay Rarity, but if you need anything, have Twilight send me a letter.” Spike said.

“Or you can ask me, I’d be more than happy to contact Spike for you.” Princess Celestia said, walking up next to them.

“Princess, I’m so happy you could attend; I wasn’t sure if you’d be able to make it.” Bonbon said.

“I wouldn’t miss it.” Celestia said. “One of the perks of being a Princess, you can reschedule things and nopony really complains too much.” She said with a wink.

Spike politely bowed to the Princess then ran out the door and headed toward Sweet Apple Acers. “Well, at least he can’t get drunk on cider, something tells me the other boys will be passed out before the night is over.” Rarity said.

Princess Celestia walked over to Twilight still enjoying her snack. “Hello Twilight, I see the cravings have started.”

Twilight looked up and quickly wiped her face. “Sorry your majesty.”

“It’s quite all right Twilight, I’m sure if you ask your friends here they went through the same thing when they had their foals.” The Princess said.

“Oh she’s right Twilight, I couldn’t get enough tomatoes when I was pregnant with the twins.” Mrs. Cake said.

“There were times I thought I went through Ponyville entire supply of Pickles.” Bonbon told her.

“I suppose you had cravings for muffins right Ditzy?” Twilight asked.

“Nope, corn. Corn cakes, corn bread, cream corn, corn soup; anything made of corn.” Ditzy said, smiling.

“I thought I’d blow up like a balloon with all the apple pie I was eating.” Rarity volunteered.

“You see Twilight, it’s perfectly normal. Enjoy your snack, we don’t mind. I am wondering though, where is my sister?”

===============================================================

In the back orchards of Sweet Apple Acres, Apple Bloom and Scootaloo were trying the best they could to comfort Sweetie Belle. “Are ya’ll sure about this, I mean I believe ya’ and all but it’s just, wow.” Apple Bloom said.

“I saw it myself Bloom. There was no mistaking it, Rarity is Sweetie Belle’s mom.” Scootaloo informed her.

“Please Bloom, please don’t tell anypony.” Sweetie Belle begged her.

“Well, alright but I can’t say I’m comfortable about it.” The maturing farm pony said.

All three of the young mares rushed to the window when the heard the loud flapping of large wings. “Princess Luna!” They gasped in unison.

“Crusaders, please assemble before me.” The three ponies rushed out of their clubhouse and stood at attention before their Princess. “It has come to my attention that you three have been having problems with your families lately. Scootaloo; Rainbow Dash has informed me that you’ve taken to leaving your home early in the morning and not returning till late, even missing your flying practice. Apple Bloom; Granny Smith has noticed that you’ve been getting in fights with your older brother.”

“Ah, we weren’t fightin’ we were just sparring. You see…” The Princess glared down at her, silencing her interruption.

“Sweetie Belle; ever since Rarity and Spike returned from Philydelphia you’ve been withdrawn and short with both of them. Do you three have anything to say for yourselves?” The three teenage mares stood there scuffing the ground, none of them willing to speak. “I see. Well then maybe I should send you three away for a while.”

“What?!” They shouted in unison.

“Well, it seems to me that you three could use a change of scenery and since you don’t want to talk to me then I am forced, as your Princess to intercede. The three of you will travel to Canterlot tomorrow to undergo training to be my junior personal guard. It will be the most difficult nine weeks you've ever had but I believe the discipline and structure you’ll receive will be good for you. Sweetie Belle, you’ll be training with Sergeant Eclipse. He’s a very talented unicorn and well versed in combat and defensive spells, you’ll learn a lot from him. Scootaloo; you will be under the tutelage of Lieutenant Gusty. He was once offered a spot with the Wonderbolts but turned it down to serve as a royal guard. I’m sure you’ll find his instruction quite useful. Last but not least, Apple Bloom. You will receive officers training from Commander Stormwing, the pegasus who has taken over command of the royal guard since Shining Armor’s reassignment as a body guard to Princess Cadence. The Commander is a wealth of knowledge; I suggest you pay attention to him when he speaks. In addition to this personal training, each of you will be schooled in the proper behavior befitting a member of the royal guard.” Luna informed them. “I will be speaking with your teacher tomorrow; you'll have to make up the time at school but I'm sure you three are up to it. Can I count on you three to perform to the best of your ability and behave like proper royal guards in training?”

“Yes Princess!” They answered in unison.

“Good. In that case, you’ll be needing these.” Princess Luna said, draping a necklace over the head of each of the mares. The chain of the necklace was sterling silver with a stone of dark purple emblazoned with a crescent moon. “These necklaces are a symbol of my office. When you wear them, you represent me. Do me proud.”

“Yes Princess!” They answered again.

Shadows of Things to Come

Luna the Matchmaker
Chapter 7 "Shadows of Things to Come."
By Steven Little
My Little Pony is © Hasbro.

After eleven long months, the blessed event had arrived; Twilight Sparkle was in labor. A commanding voice rang out through the library. "Crusaders, attend me." Princess Luna commanded regally. The three fillies in question galloped into the royal couples bedroom and quickly came to attention. Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo felt very grown up since Princess Luna had them appointed as her official royal attendants for the summer while they weren't in school. The girls were slightly taller now and wore their Cutie Mark Crusader capes as bandanas. Around each of their necks was a silver necklace with a purple stone emblazoned with Luna's crescent moon, a badge of their royal appointment.

"You have a mission for us your majesty?" Apple Bloom asked.

"Yes my faithful Captain. Twilight is in labor and I am in need of your assistance. Scoot, Belle, I need you to gather all our friends. Belle, I'd like you to concentrate on the south end of town while Scoot, I want you to take the north and be sure to get Lyra and Bonbon they have experience in these maters. Dismissed." Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle galloped out of the library

"Your majesty. Is there anything you would ask of me?" Apple Bloom asked.

"Yes Captain Apple Bloom. I must leave to get the Doctor. Until I return I need you to stand guard over Twilight Sparkle. Make sure her needs are meet and that she wants for nothing while I'm gone." Luna saw that the filly seemed to be disheartened with her mission. "Apple Bloom, Twilight is my most important and special treasure. I could not leave to do what I must if I didn't think somepony was here to help her; somepony I could trust implicitly."

The Crusader brightened up at the thought of the most important task she was given. "You can count on me to protect her Princess Luna. While I'm on duty nothing will befall the Lady Twilight."

Luna trotted or to the bed where Twilight lay resting. "For someone who hates all the trappings of being a Princess you're sure getting used to it again." Twilight said. Even now, with all the discomfort she was in, she could still crack a joke.

"I'm only doing it for the girls. Remember, they've been trough guard training and they love showing off what they learned." Luna smiled at her mate. "I have to go but I'll be back as soon as I can my love. Hang in there, Apple Bloom will get you anything you require."

"You do realize he's going to protest when you ask him?" Twilight asked her.

"You assume I'm going to ask." Luna said smiling.

Twilight kissed her lover softly on the lips. "Hurry back and please be careful. I don't know why we still have wings after all this time and I don't know when or if the spell will were off."

"It hasn’t shown signs of wearing off in nearly four years Twilight.” Luna said, trying to calm her mate.

“You know what I mean Luna. Not that I mind or anything but I worry.” Twilight said.

“I know; I promise I'll be careful and I'll return just as fast as I can." Luna walked to the balcony behind the bed and spread her wings. The semi translucent feathers began to glow with a purple iridescence as a slight incoming breeze rushed around her wings. Stretching her wings to their limit, Luna pushed off from the balcony and soared off into the sky.

Apple Bloom laid herself down next to the bed. "Is there anything I can get you Lady Twilight?"

"No, thank you Apple Bloom. What's with all the formality?" Twilight asked.

"That's just how we were told to talk to ponies of royalty when me and the other Crusaders went to Guard Training. Since you and the Princess are a mated pair you qualify."

Twilight smiled and the young pony. "Luna and I aren't married, at least not yet. You can still just call me Twilight." Twilight cringed as another contraction caused her to groan and whimper in pain.

"Does it hurt a lot?" The young guard asked her.

Perspiration was beading along Twilight's forehead. Apple Bloom placed a cold compress to Twilight's head from a nearby basin. "It hurts a little but it's okay its all just a normal part of having a foal. As long as the baby is healthy, it will all be worth it."

There was a knock at the bedroom door. "Just a moment Twilight. I'll go see who it is." Apple Bloom trotted down the stairs from Twilight's sleeping loft and answered the bedroom door. "Can I help you?"

"We're here to help Twilight." Lyra said.

"The Princess said you would be coming. You may enter but please try to keep the noise down." Apple Bloom stood aside and held the door for the visiting ponies.

"Lyra, Bonbon, Tootsie Flute; how are the three of you?" She asked.

"We're fine, how are you." Bonbon asked.

"I don't know. This is a first for me. How long were you in labor Bonbon?"

"Only about a hour." She stated.

"It's been almost one and a half hours. Where's Luna? She said she wouldn't be long. I don't think I can do this without her." Twilight had started to panic.

Bonbon laid herself down beside Twilight and bathed her brow with the damp cloth. "There there dear. I'm sure that wherever she is, she's doing whatever she can to help you."

================================================================

On the northeast end of town, Luna was flying towards a mailbox shaped home bordered by the White Tail Wood. She landed on the path to the house and gently knocked on the door. Luna didn't have to wait long before a fifteen year old gray unicorn mare answered the door. "Hello Dinky, is your mother and the Doctor around?"

"Hello Princess Luna. Mom and the Doctor are out back in his blue box thingy."

"Hiding again no doubt. Thank you Dinky, I'll see you again soon." Luna walked around to the back of the house but there was nothing there. Using her magic, she searched for the two ponies until her magic indicated the existence of a large invisible rectangular structure. Luna banged on the invisible door. "You can't hide in there from me and you know it! Open the door before I open it for you!"

The door slowly opened and a gray mare with an odd expression on her face looked out. "Hi Luna, how ya' doin? " She asked,

"I'm okay Ditzy but Twilight is in labor and I need the Doctor right away."

"How many times do I have to tell you ponies? I'm not that kind of doctor."

"I don't care what kind of doctor you are! You're the only pony with any experience with a magically assisted pregnancy!" Luna shouted.

The Doctor poked his head out of the TARDIS. "Well, there's no debating that and I can certainly understand why'd you come to me but honestly I'm not a medical doctor."

"Ditzy, if you wouldn't mind." The Princess smiled at the Doctor.

Ditzy grabbed the doctor under his shoulders and began pulling him out of the TARDIS and lifted him into the air. "No problem Princess. If you carry Dinky we'll be right behind you."

Dinky had been watching the whole conversation. Luna squatted down and let Dinky climb onto her back. "Hold on Dinky." Luna took off into the air with Ditzy following close behind. "How are you doing back there dear?"

"I'm fine. I used to fly with mom all the time." Dinky giggled.

"What's so funny?" The Princess asked her.

"I love it when mom makes The Doctor do things he doesn't want. It's always really funny."

"This is a conspiracy!" The chestnut colored earth pony yelled.

================================================================

As Luna approached the upstairs balcony of the library, she saw Scoot and Belle standing guard outside the balcony door. The Princess landed gently and allowed the young mare to jump off her back before addressing the two crusaders. "Are they all here?" She asked.

"Yes your majesty. All the ponies in question have arrived. The majority of them are downstairs in the library common area. Captain Apple Bloom is standing guard at the door to prevent inquisitive ponies from intruding on the bedchamber." Scoot reported.

"Lyra and Bonbon are with Lady Twilight now, keeping her calm. Lyra has reported that she is getting close to delivery. It shouldn't be long now." Belle informed her.

"I'll be the judge of that." The Doctor said as he and Ditzy landed on the balcony. "Really, you drag me out here and then you don't even consult me before coming up with your own diagnosis. Actually I predicted this might happen so I did myself a favor and looked up more information on the procedure."

"Doctor, you're babbling again." Ditzy said as she placed her hoof on the stallion's lips.

"Your patient is right this way doctor." Luna said trying to control her laughter.

The Doctor walked into the bedroom and was greeted by Bonbon and Lyra. "Ladies, how is the patient?"

"She under a lot of stress. her contractions are coming faster and faster. I don't think it will be much longer." Bonbon informed him.

The doctor walked around the bed until he was facing Twilight's flank. Lifting her tail, he inspected the progress of her labor. "Okay, Miss Twilight, I'm going to need you to role to your left side." Twilight did as she was instructed blushing a little. "It's okay Miss Twilight. I completely understand your feelings but let me assure you. I'm here in an entirely professional capacity. I mean no offense but I have no interest in your flank."

Luna nuzzled her lovers' cheek. "I'll always be interested in your flank. How much longer Doctor?"

"Bonbon is right, it shouldn't be long now. It appears that Twilight is fully dilated and with any luck the harder contractions should start and this delivery will begin. Princess, Bonbon, I'm going to need you to comfort and encourage her as this is going to be fairly taxing. Princess Luna, you can use your magic to dull the pain but don't block all of it; Twilight will still need to know when to push. Lyra. I'll need your help back here."

"Don't worry Doc, I'm here to help any way I can." Lyra reassured him.

There was a commotion at the balcony. Scoot and Belle opened the balcony door to allow Princess Celestia to enter the bedchamber. "Please, stay as you are, this isn't a time for ceremony. I'm just here to see the newest member of our family. I do hope I'm not too late."

"You're right on time Tia, as usual." Luna said.

"And how are you doing Lulu?"

"I told you not to call me that." She paused for a few seconds. "Only Twilight gets to call me that." Luna said hugging her mate. A powerful contraction quaked through Twilight's body. The lavender pony cried out, as the muscles in her abdomen seemed to catch fire. "Hang on there dear I'm trying to dull the pain."

Luna's magic enveloped Twilight's head. Slowly the pain began to dissipate. She still hurt a little but it was nowhere near as bad as it had been. "Thank you. That feels a lot better."

Celestia noticed the two teenaged unicorn mares in the room. "Tootsie Flute, Dinky, why don't you go down and let the others know that the delivery has begun?"

"Yes Princess." They said as they trotted down the stairs and let themselves out. Another contraction ripped through Twilight. Even with the magic dampening the pain, Twilight felt her muscles tearing for the effort.

"Push Twilight push as hard as you can." Bonbon encouraged her. The contraction eased off and Twilight was able to breath again. Her whole body was trembling.

"Hang in there my love, I know you can do this. I know it hurts but I’m right here with you." Luna said, holding Twilight’s hooves in her own.

The lavender unicorn smiled at her lover. 'I can do this. I can do this. It'll be over soon and I'll be a mother. No, we'll be mothers.' Twilight thought to herself as she gazed into Luna's gentle eyes. Another hard contraction racked her body.

"Push Miss Twilight, I can see the nose, push hard." She pushed as hard as she could, the physical effort almost more than she could bear. First the nose then the head of the new foal was pushed out. "We're almost there. On the next contraction I need you to give it all you've got." The Doctor encouraged her.

"What do you think I've been doing?!" Twilight snapped at him. The next contraction came fast and painful. Twilight cried out as she pushed the foal further out. As soon as the Doctor saw the little hooves he hooked his own front hooves under the foals front legs and gently pulled the baby from Twilight's body. Twilight began to breath regularly again. She was completely exhausted by the exertion. Luna used her magic to cut the umbilical cord and took the foal from the Doctor. She held the newborn mare for a while but before she could set the baby next to her mate another contraction coursed through Twilight.

"What's this now?" The Doctor gently pushed against Twilight's abdomen. A little surprised at what he found he shouted back to Lyra. "I need some alcohol!" The Doctor ordered. Since Luna had moved in with Twilight, she started to keep a small supply of spirits around. Lyra went over to the small mini bar in the corner; grabbing a small bottle of whiskey she brought it over and pored it on the doctor's right front hoof. "This is going to be a little uncomfortable Miss. Twilight so please pardon the rude intrusion." The Doctor carefully pushed his right front hoof inside Twilight. He gently probed around until his suspicions were confirmed. He withdrew his hoof and wiped it off on a towel. "Lyra, I need you to use your magic to probe inside and pull the other foal out. In Twilight's weakened state I don't she has the strength to push."

"Okay doc. I'll do my best. Try and relax Twilight. I'll be as fast and as gentle as I can. I promise." Lyra concentrated hard on her task.

"Twins?" Twilight asked looking up at her mate. “But how is that possible? We’ve been to the doctor for regular checkups the whole time. He never said anything about twins.”

"Indeed Miss Twilight. It’s a very rare occurrence but I’ve read that in some cases the heart beats of twins can be in almost perfect sync with each other making it very heard to differentiate between them. Unless your doctor knew exactly what he was listening for, he could have easily missed it.” The Doctor informed her. "Now this might be a little uncomfortable so please, try to relax and allow Lyra to do her work."

In her mind Lyra could see her magic take form. It swirled and spun until she willed the flow of energy inside Twilight. Going slowly and deliberately she felt around until she came in contact with the foal. She spread the energy over the baby, encompassing it in a field of mint green magic. She started to pull the foal down the canal and with a last effort out into the light. The second foal, a colt, began to cry as he was lifted into the air and reunited with his sibling who was now resting next to Twilight.

"Good job everypony and thank you all for you're help." Celestia announced to the room. Luna and Twilight had finished cleaning off the twin foals, one male and one female. The female had a white coat and a mane that was striped light violet and dark blue. The male shared the same gray blue coat as Luna; however, his mane was the same violet as Twilight's. Both of the newborn foals had a small horn and a tiny pair of wings. Twilight had an idea and nudged the male a little with her nose. The tiny foal yawned and stretched. When the little foal opened his wings, Twilight lightly blew across them. She was surprised when the feathers started to glow with a gray blue light.

Luna nodded to Scoot standing by the balcony door. “You my let the others in now but asks them politely to keep noise down to a minimum.”

Scoot walked downstairs and tapped on the door. Apple Bloom opened the door and poked her head in. "Captain." Scoot announced. "The Princess has given permission for the guests to enter provided they are quiet. The Lady Twilight is exhausted and will soon need her rest." Scootaloo tapped her hoof twice against the floor.

Apple Bloom nodded her head. "Understood." The yellow mare walked into the main room to address the ponies waiting patiently. "The Princess is allowing visitors into the bedchamber now. Please try to keep any comments or idle chitchat to a low volume. Lady Twilight is quite tired after the ordeal. Oh, and by the way, she had twins." The room full of ponies gasped in surprise then slowly filed into the bedroom area of the library. Apple Bloom noted them as they entered; Big Macintosh and Fluttershy, Applejack and Caramel, An unusually calm Pinkie Pie and Braeburn, Spike and Rarity, Rainbow Dash and Soarin. A now four year old Garnet smiled up at her with a dreamy expression on his face as he passed by followed quietly by Dinky, and Tootsie Flute. All the ponies crowded around the bed to see the new twin foals quietly nursing from their mother. It was quickly concluded that the foals were the most adorable things any of them had ever seen.

Among the visitors, it was Rainbow Dash that noticed something peculiar first. "Twilight, Princess. I know your wings come from a spell but you didn't cast the same spell on them right away did you?"

Luna shook her head. "No, that kind of magic is dangerous to use on a newborn. They were born with the wings.”

"Does that mean the babies are alicorns like you?" Fluttershy asked.

"I don't see how." Luna answered. "I ceased being an alicorn when Nightmare Moon clipped my wings. Since then I've simply been a unicorn with conjured up magic wings."

"Oh, I wouldn't say that." Came a familiar disembodied voice.

"No, it can't be." Twilight said as she instinctively shielded her foals with her right wing.

Every pony in the room was surprised when the familiar draconequus appeared on the balcony outside the room. Apple Bloom, Scoot and Belle tried to block his path into the room but with a snap of his fingers the three ponies found themselves floating in the air. Discord tapped them gently and they bounced off like a trio of helium filled balloons. "What are you doing here? How did you get out of the statue again?" Celestia shouted at him. Both Celestia and Luna moved between him and Twilight. Both regal sisters spread their wings protectively in an attempt to shield her from Discord.

"All these questions. Can't you just be happy to see me? Oh, that's right you wouldn't be. Fine. As to why I'm here, we'll put that aside for now. How I'm here is a much more entertaining story." Discord shrunk himself down to half his size and perched on the end of the bed. "Okay, where to begin, where to begin? Ah yes. Twilight and her friends were defeating me. Thankfully for me, Twilight isn't the iron-hoofed dictator you are Celestia. She couldn't put me back in stone. When the power from the Elements of Harmony hit me I heard her in my mind. As long as I promised not to interfere with the lives of anypony she'd send me a place where I could live out eternity. I agreed and Twilight Sparkle sent me to another realm entirely, a realm that doesn't obey the laws of time and space. It's absolutely heaven to someone like me."

"Okay, so Twilight's a big softy. We all knew that but what are you doing here. If you're here to cause trouble again, we can get the elements and really turn you back to stone this time." Rainbow threatened.

"Ever loyal to your friends Rainbow Dash. Well, why I'm here is a long story but to start with I'm here because of the happy event that just happened. As to your question Fluttershy, yes they are alicorns because their parents are alicorns. You see I was watching that night when Twilight gave Luna her wings back. The plans of an associate of mine called for some meddling anyway so I just started with them. As soon as Twilight’s spell had done its job, I used my temporarily heightened power to turn both of them into alicorns. I loved the job Twilight did with the wings so I left them alone. The foals are alicorns as well as both their mothers and everything that entails." The draconequus smiled, impressed with himself.

"What meddling are you up to Discord and who is this associate of yours?” Luna asked rather irritated.

“My associate wishes to remain anonymous for the moment and will reveal themselves when they feel the time is right. However, I was permitted to inform you that they mean you no harm.” Discord looked around the room, noting each pony and one particular dragon that was present. "How fortuitous, everypony's here." The draconequus braced himself and snapped his fingers. There was a blinding white flash and as soon as they could see again, the found Discord on the floor back to his original size and panting heavily. Scoot, Belle, and Apple Bloom slowly lowered to the ground and found themselves back to normal.

Luna nodded toward the draconequus. "Help him up." The three temporary royal guards walked over and assisted Discord to his feet.

"My thanks to you. I didn't realize how much magic that would take." Discord snapped his fingers again and a high back red velvet chair appeared behind him. Slumping down in the chair he gave out a loud sigh. "I'm sorry. I'm usually more animated but I just used all of the powered loaned to me and nearly my entire magic reserves just then. Give me a moment to catch my breath."

"A pity he didn't use all of it up." Rarity whispered to Rainbow Dash who nodded in agreement.

"That's something I would have expected from Luna and Celestia." Discord pointed to his large ears then addressed Rarity again. "These things aren't just for looks you know."

Luna argued the point. "We would never wish that. We simply wanted you to stop making everypony miserable. We had no other choice. You wouldn't listen to reason."

"My my, that sure sounds familiar doesn't it Celestia?" The Princess hung her head, still ashamed of sending her sister to the moon.

"I don't get it." Applejack interrupted. "What's so bad about using all your magic?"

"You see girls. One of the things that Discord shares with alicorns is that fact that if he ever completely use up all of his magic, he’ll die." Alicorn and creatures like Discord are beings of magic. We cannot exist without it." Celestia explained.

"I'm so sorry." Rarity gasped. "I'd never wish for anyone to die."

"It's quite alright Rarity. I'm used to it. I seem to elicit that kind of response." Discord snapped his fingers and a cup of tea appeared in his hands. Taking a sip he continued his narration. "To put a long story short, I turned you all immortal."

"What!?" Came a collective shout from the gathered ponies.

Discord was smiling again. "Oh, not completely. Like alicorns and myself you can still die it just takes a bigger hit to knock you out and like Celestia, Luna, Twilight, and the newborns you will all age to about thirty six and then stop. But I will warn you this. Your life energy is no longer your own. As instructed, your life force is now mingled with theirs." He said indicating the five alicorns around the bed. "Them and all their decedents, even Celestia if she can stop being such a prude. If they should die, the magic will be broken and you and your descendants will be completely mortal again. Of course, with each generation the link grows weaker and weaker so while the connection remains strong in you, several generations down the line the connection will break and your descendants will be completely mortal anyway.

Twilight was starting to get her strength back. "Why?" Was all she asked.

Discord let out a loud sigh. "I'm not used to being so serious all the time. It's very taxing. I don't know how you're all able to do it. Well, in a nutshell Equestria is in danger. From what I have been shown, It wont be for many years but I do know that if you, all of you, are not there Equestria and indeed the entirety of the world will fall to ruin. The Elements of Harmony and the rest of you must live to fight that battle"

"Not that I'm complainin’ or anythin’ but there will be other ponies after us. Why can't they use the Elements of Harmony to defeat whatever it is that's commin’?" Applejack asked.

"Oh most certainly there would have been others but my associate assures me that none of them would be as powerful as you six. Trust me, I looked."

"How were you able to look into the future." Carmel asked.

"Glad you asked. You see, time and space are not fixed in my realm so I can look forward in time and even go there and back if I wish."

"If that's true then why didn't you go back and stop the Princesses from turning you to stone in the first place?" Twilight inquired.

"Ah yes, one of the few rules. I can go forward in time and return to the present but I can't go back."

"That makes absolutely no sense. Rainbow Dash interjected.

"I know! Isn't it wonderful?" Discord asked laughing. "Anyway. I've looked into the future and was shown two events that are pivotal to the future of Equestria. The first is a war with the Griffons. It won't happen for about two hundred years but it will happen." Discord got up from his chair and walked towards Ditzy.

The Doctor bared his path. "I've heard about you Discord. If you harm one hair on Ditzy's head I assure you it will not go well for you."

Discord moved the Doctor out of his way with a wave of his claw. Gently pulling a single strand out of Ditzy's mane he broke it in half in front of the Doctor. "It would be in your best interest to remain silent until you are spoken to Time Lord." He then addressed the gray mare. "Miss Hooves; with the possible exception of Twilight’s foals, you are possibly the most innocent soul in this room and so I shall give you this personal warning. In the coming war with the griffons General Ditzy, do not under any circumstance turn your back on Captain Iron Claw." Discord placed a single claw on Ditzy's head and there was a small flash of light. "Remember it."

"What about us? We're just a baker and a musician. How can we possibly be of use in a war?" Bonbon asked.

"Not all warriors are born warriors. Many fight for their homes, their countries, and then there are the ones who fight for their families. You two are destined to be heroes of the coming war. You may not know it now but the time will come. That goes for all you studs in the room as well. As for your little Tootsie Flute there, she is destined to become a great commander and doctor. I could go on at length but let me alleviate your lack of understanding. I’ve been guaranteed that each of you will have a part to be played that cannot be fulfilled by ANY other pony or dragon in your case Spike." Discord returned to his chair.

“How are you so certain of all this. I know you Discord, better than anypony. You are not one easily convinced of anything.” Celestia said.

“Let’s just say that my associate is very convincing when she wants to be. Besides, she owes me. I’ve done my part and I have no doubt that she will hold up her end of the bargain." He said.

“She?” Big Macintosh asked.

“Did I say she? Ahh, I was monologing again wasn’t I? An unfortunate weakness I admit.”

“You said there were two events. What's the other?" Fluttershy asked cautiously.

Discords smile left his face. "The Miasma is coming." His voice was dead serious and left no doubt in anypony's mind what he said was true.

The Doctor was beside himself. "The Miasma? Please, for the love of banana muffins, tell me your joking. This is one of your tricks."

"I wish I could Time Lord. You know as well as I that the Miasma poses a serious threat to every living thing in existence. The last time I looked in on it, it was gathering its pieces and will head here as soon as it's finished. Go ahead and look in that little box of yours. It will confirm I'm telling the truth."

"What is the Miasma?" Soarin asked.

"The Miasma is a diabolical life form that searches out other forms of life to feed off. Essentially it's a parasite that feeds off its host's life force. It does this by taking over its physical form and corrupting it." The Doctor explained. "But what would be drawing it here?"

"Actually, Twilight and Luna are drawing it. Well, more Twilight than Luna." Discord explained.

Twilight looked at him in disbelief. "Me? What did I do?"

"You destroyed Nightmare Moon." Discord said flatly. "Nightmare Moon is what resulted when Luna was attacked by a part of the Miasma. Nopony knew what it was at the time of course. I didn't even realize it until Twilight destroyed it. It's coming because it knows there are immortal beings here it can corrupt and because it views the Elements of Harmony and the Princesses as a threat as well as an eternal meal."

"But Twilight was protecting the pony she loved. She can't be held responsible for any of this. Luna either." Rarity stated.

"And that mean old Nightmare Moon, she was all like 'I'm so evil.' And Twilight was like 'I'll stop you.' Then Nightmare Moon was like 'Not if I get you first.' And then she threw these purple lighting bolts at her and…"

Pinkie was cut off as Braeburn held her mouth shut. "Sorry bout that but she's right. From what I heard, I'd have done the same thing if someone threatened my Pinkie."

"Please don't misunderstand. I have nothing against what happened but the piece that infected Luna, like all pieces of the creature, was connected to the whole. It knows everything that happened. On a positive note, its source of information has been cut off since Nightmare Moons destruction. So it's doesn't know about Twilight or the foals and it doesn't know what I've done. It still thinks Luna is mortal and near powerless. And it also thinks the rest of you will be dead by the time it arrives. Oh and by the way, I watched the battle with great interest. I commend you on the way you dispatched that loathsome creature. It was spectacular."

"How could you possibly know what happened?" Celestia asked him. "The only way you could possibly seen anything is…" Celestia's voice trailed off as she remembered the scratches on her left flank from that day. She assumed that she had scratched herself but now as she looked up at the smiling draconequus, she realized the truth. "How dare you!?" She shouted at him.

"Oh like you didn't love it. Just like the old days. You use to like my randomness back then. Remember how you used to sneak out and see me in the Everfree Forest? I missed that. What ever happened to us Celestia?"

"You turned into a jerk remember." All eyes were on Celestia. "I mean; I don't know what you're talking about. Besides how can we be sure your telling the truth? You tried to destroy Equestria twice."

"I never wanted to destroy anything just make it more interesting." Discord considered for a moment the other part of Celestia's accusation. Having recovered much of his magic at this point, Discord shrunk himself down walked over in front of Celestia and looked her directly in the eyes. "If I was ever anything Celestia, a liar was never one of them. Can you name me even one time in all the time you knew me, that I have EVER lied to you?"

"No, I can't." Princess Celestia said, remembering the truth in his statement.

"I can understand the mistrust and it's true I never really do anything when there isn't something in it for me so I'll come clean. The reason I'm helping you is also motivated by my own selfish interests in the matter. If the Miasma wins, I already know that I'm next on their list. But I can't force you to believe me. Well that's not true I could but I'm not going to. There is another reason but I think I’ll keep that to myself for now.”

“Anything else we should know?” Twilight asked.

Discord thought for a moment, looking to each of the alicorns. His eyes finally fell on the newborns. He snapped his fingers and suddenly the twins appeared cradled in his arms. The three alicorn mares reached out for them fearfully. “Discord please, don’t hurt them, they’re just babies.” Twilight pleaded.

“I have never harmed a child in my life and I have no intention to harm one now. Besides, harming any of you would be the signature on my own death warrant. My associate is quite found of all of you. She’s been watching you for a very, very long time.” Discord took a long look and the white filly he held and Dinky sitting at the side of the bed. He knew what was to come but didn't have the heart to tell them.

“Please Discord, return them.” Celestia asked, her voice was soft and disarming. The draconequus walked slowly to Celestia and allowed her to levitate the newborns out of his arms and back to Twilight. The entire time, neither took their eyes off the other.

Looking the alabaster mare in the eyes, he spoke softly. “Be careful. There is a darkness following all of you and the stench of Proudwing surrounds them."

"He was banished over a thousand years ago Discord. He and all of his descendants are gone. Luna and I saw to it personally." Celestia said.

"One survived, though I do not know who. Be on your guard. I fear they intend you harm. I'm going back to my realm to keep an eye on things. You will not see me again until just before Equestria's conflict with the griffons. So until then, prepare for what lies ahead, watch over each other and remember, above all else live your lives to the fullest." Discord kissed Celestia on the cheek then vanished.

Celestia concentrated for a moment, trying to control the blush spreading across her face. "He's gone." She announced after searching for him with her magic.

"Well that was interesting." Twilight said. "Do you think he's telling the truth?"

"Only time will tell Twilight. But I will admit this. He was right. In all the time I've known him, he has never once lied. Twisted the truth a bit but never lied." Celestia informed her.

“Who’s this Proudwing he was talking of?” Caramel asked.

“He was a very angry and misguided pony who’s actions cost the life of my consort and over two thousand ponies. For his transgressions he and those that followed him were banished from our land.” Celestia said sadly.

“Tia, he didn’t kill Kirin. You know that.” Luna said.

“He may as well have after what he did!” The Princess shouted. “ Twilight, I’m very happy for you and Luna but I’m sorry, I have to go.” She said, tears welling up in her eyes. She quickly walked out to the balcony and took off into the air.

Luna looked to her mate. “Go after her dear, let me know what happens.” Twilight told her. Luna quickly flew through the balcony doors after her sister.

Two teenaged mares and a little colt pushed through the older ponies until they reached the side of the bed. "Miss Twilight, are the babies okay?” Dinky asked.

“Can we see them Aunt Twilight?" Tootsie Flute asked.

Twilight smiled at the children. "Of course you can." Twilight folded up her wing and revealed the two newborn foals sleeping next to her lower abdomen.

"Do you know what you’re going to name them?" Garnet asked her.

"Yes. Luna and I decided days ago that we’d name the baby Dusk if it were a colt and Dawn if it’s a Filly. I guess we’re going to use both of the names."

Fear, Love, and Loathing in Equestria

Luna the Matchmaker
Chapter 8 "Fear, Love, and Loathing in Equestria."
By Steven Little
My Little Pony is © Hasbro

It was early morning in Ponyville and Princess Luna had just finished lowering the moon. Stepping back inside from the upstairs balcony, she trotted over to the cradle against the far wall. The cradle itself was old and made of apple wood. Applejack had given it to her and Twilight at her baby shower, mentioning that Apple Bloom, herself, and even Big Macintosh had used it. Inside the crib slept the two miracles that Twilight had given birth to three day before. Leaning in, Luna gave each of her foals a soft kiss before turning back to the bed that held the love of her life. Walking toward the bed, Luna realized that the sun had not yet begun to rise.

'Celestia had never taken this long to raise the sun before.' She thought to herself.

Concentrating hard, she focused her thoughts on her sister in the Canterlot Palace. Luna's image was projected across the astral plane to her sister's bedchamber. Celestia was still asleep. In her hooves she held a very old, yellowed and crinkled photograph. Luna tried to make out the image in the photograph when Celestia woke up, shocked at her sisters presence. "Tia, are you okay?" Luna asked her.

Celestia looked up at her sister. Her eyes were red from crying and Luna could see tear stains coursing down her cheeks. "I'm fine sister." She said, hiding the photograph quickly, hoping Luna hadn't seen it.

"Are you sure everything is alright?" Luna asked again. "I know things have been hard for you recently Tia. Nopony expected that monster to come back.”

“He’s wasn’t always a monster Luna. He used to be sweet and innocent, It wasn’t his fault.” Celestia said, tears starting to form in her eyes once again.

“I know, I know.” Luna said comfortingly. “I’m sorry this has been so difficult for you but he’s gone now and he won’t return for two centuries. When he does come back, I’ll be here for you, so will Twilight and all our friends. If you ever want to just sit and talk about it, you know I'll always be here for you."

"Thank you Luna, I'm fine now.” Luna gave her a suspicious look. “Really, I’m fine, why don't you run along back to Twilight and the children. I'll raise the sun and thank you for waking me before the morning became too late.”

"All right, but would it be okay if Twilight and I came to see you later?"

"Yes, of course I always enjoy a visit from you. Oh and if you can, bring the twins as well; I'd love to see their adorable little faces again."

"Okay sis. You have a good morning." Luna said, smiling.

"You as well Luna."

Luna blinked her eyes several times and found herself back inside the master bedroom of the library. She felt there was something her sister wasn't telling her but couldn't quite figure out what it was. Luna tried to shake of the feeling when she noticed that the foals were beginning to cry out softly for their mother. Luna quietly rushed to the crib and stroked the mane of each of her foals with a hoof. They seemed to settle down a bit but were still a little fussy. Leaning in, she nuzzled each of them and began to sing softly. As she finished the song, she could tell both of the foals were sleeping soundly. Walking back to the bed, she curled up behind her mate and wrapped her hooves and wings around Twilight. "Good morning dear." She whispered.

"Good morning Lulu." Twilight returned equally as soft. Luna had always hated it when Celestia called her that but for some reason Luna found it cute when it came from the lavender mare wrapped in her wings. “That lullaby sounds more and more beautiful every time I hear you sing it.”

“Thank you my love.” She said, gently nuzzling the back of Twilight's left tear.

Something was nagging at Twilight. Rolling over so that she faced her lover she asked, "Luna do you still think I'm pretty?"

"Of course I do Twilight. You’re beautiful, why would you ask such a question?"

"I don't know. I just feel fat and bloated and ugly. My body has been stretched all out of shape and nothing really feels right."

"Oh Twilight, you're not ugly and I'm sure that with exercise your belly will be back to its normal shape in no time at all." Luna began to nibble on Twilight's left ear, eliciting a moan of pleasure from her lover. Releasing her ear, Luna looked deeply into Twilight's eyes. "I love you Twilight Sparkle and I'm going to show you how much I want, need, and desire you."

An hour had passed when the two lovers collapsed back down onto the bed breathing hard, a light steam rising from their coats in the cool morning air. Luna nuzzled the spot where Twilight's left wing attached to her body making her release a satisfied sigh. A morning of lust and soft gentle pleasure was just what Twilight needed to feel better about herself. They lay there a while, enjoying each others company when they were disturbed by a commotion from downstairs. "Stay here, I'll be right back.” Luna said.

Walking downstairs, Luna could hear shouting from the main portion of the library. "What the heck do you two think you're doin'? You're supposed to be guarding Twilight and the Princess not screwing around!"

"Chillax Apple Bloom. Nothing's going to happen. You take this whole guard thing way to seriously."

"And you do not take it seriously enough Scootaloo." Luna said as she entered the room. The three girls tried to explain everything at the same time. "Silence!" Luna yelled, regretting it as soon as she said it. She listened closely and was rewarded by silence. "Captain. Wait for me in the bedchamber. I'll be with you in a moment and please, try to be quiet; I don’t want to wake the foals."

"Yes Princess." She said as she quietly walked through the door behind Luna. When the door had closed Luna addressed the other two sitting next to each other in front of the fireplace. "Well? I'm waiting. What happened?"

"It's all my fault Princess Luna." Sweetie Belle admitted. "I was having a hard time last night and Scooty was helping me through it, and then one thing led to another."

Luna detected a familiar scent in the air. "No need to explain, I think I know what Apple Bloom walked in on. What happened last night to cause the incident?"

Sweetie Belle rubbed her head against Scootaloo's neck. "It was awful Princess. Rarity and Spike were yelling and shouting and crying all night. I couldn't hear everything but Spike was talking about moving back into the library." Sweetie Belle had begun to cry. "I fell like my parents are splitting up. Rarity raised me and the last few years, Spike has been more of a father to me than anything I've ever known. I can't bear the thought of them splitting up."

Luna put a comforting wing around the young couple. "I'm sorry Belle, I know how much Spike and Rarity mean to you. They are very special to Twilight and myself as well. I promise that later today we'll go over and talk to them, find out what's really going on." Luna smiled at Scootaloo hugging Sweetie Belle with her wings. "So, how long have you two been together?"

"Um, a little over eleven months." Scootaloo responded.

“The day of our announcement, when Rarity and Spike went to Philydelphia?” Luna asked.

“Yeah.” Sweetie Belle confirmed. “I took your advice and tried to wait for her to come around but I guess I couldn’t wait anymore and confronted her about it.”

“And I’m glad you did.” Scootaloo said, nuzzling her unicorn friend.

"Guard training must have been especially difficult for you two but I'm glad that you seemed to come out alright. I think you two are very cute together and I wish you both all the luck I can, just promise me you'll be a little more discreet in the future and keep this sort of behavior for when you're off duty. I can't have two of my guards distracted."

"We promise your majesty." Scootaloo said saluting sharply.

Luna chuckled and walked back into the bedchamber. Apple Bloom was waiting at the foot of the stairs. "Up." Luna commanded, the smile vanishing from her face. She followed her captain up the stairs until they were in the sleeping area. "Stay right there." She ordered. Apple Bloom stood at attention until Luna walked around the bed and laid herself down behind Twilight. Both ponies watched the uneasy young mare. With a nod, she sat down next to the bed.

Twilight spoke first. "Do you care to explain yourself Captain? Luna and I could hear you all the way up here."

Apple Bloom was shocked at Twilight's regal demeanor and wasn't sure what to say. "You were asked a question. I suggest you answer it." Luna said. Secretly she was both happy and surprised by Twilight's initiative.

"I was comin' to relieve Scoot on guard when I caught her and Belle foolin' around in front of the fire place."

"Fooling around?" Twilight asked.

"Apparently Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo are a couple. Have been for some time now." Luna informed her. "It appears that, Rarity and Spike are having domestic problems. There was talk of Spike moving out and back into the library. Belle came here for comfort from Scootaloo and things got a little out of hoof."

"I didn't know." Apple Bloom said shocked.

"Of course you didn't. You were too busy shouting at them to ask what was going on." Luna said. "Apple Bloom, dear. It takes more than a commanding authority and an ability to give orders, to make a good officer. A good Captain needs understanding and compassion also. You can't expect those under you to never make a mistake. When they mess up, and they will mess up, you need to be understanding and have the presence of mind not fly off the handle at them."

"I understand. I shouldn't have gotten mad at them before gettin' all the information." The young captain said.

"Good. Now why don't you tell us what's really bothering you? I know you Apple Bloom. You wouldn't have gotten so mad just because you caught your two friends fooling around." Twilight inquired.

"I guess I was shocked is all. I thought the three of us were in the same boat together. Now I know it's just me."

"What boat is that dear?" Luna asked.

"Well, everypony has a special somepony of their own. You and Twilight have each other. My sister and brother have Caramel and Fluttershy, but I don't have anypony. On top of that, I'm told yesterday that I'm gonna’ live as long as you two and Princess Celestia. Am I gonna’ be alone the whole time?" Apple Bloom started to cry.

"Of course not dear." Luna told her. "There are always ponies around that may catch your eye. Or if you're looking for someone that will be as ageless as you, there are already two boys and three girls that will live as long as you."

Apple Bloom was trying to stop here tears. "I'm not into mares and the boys to choose from are babies or close to it." She argued.

"They won’t always be that way. They will grow up and then what?" Luna asked.

"But even if they look the same age as me, they'll still be a lot younger."

"Sweet heart. How old do you think I am?" Twilight asked.

"I don't know. Twenty seven?"

"Good guess. Now, can you tell me how old Princess Luna is?" Twilight asked her.

"Let me help you with that one. To be honest I've stopped counting but I'm over fifteen hundred years old. Do you think the age difference bothers us? We love each other regardless of how much distance there is, it'll be the same for you one day."

"While your thinking that over. Why don't you go back downstairs and apologize to your friends." Twilight suggested.

"Yes ma'am. I will." She said as she saluted and trotted off down the stairs.

Twilight rolled over and faced Luna. "So, Rarity and Spike are having problems?"

"That's what Sweetie Belle was saying. I have no reason to doubt her." She said.

"I wonder if this has anything to do with what happened with Discord yesterday?” Twilight speculated. “Having partial immortality dropped in your lap like that can be shocking and difficult to deal with. To be honest, I’m still having a problem with it."

“Why’s that? I’m an alicorn again, isn’t that what you wanted? On top of that, you are too and that means I never have worry about loosing you.” The Lunar Princess said.

“Luna, I’m overjoyed that you’ve been returned to normal. You have no idea how happy that makes me but you have to understand, four days ago we knew we were unicorns and now we know that in reality, four years ago you were changed back to normal and I was changed into an immortal alicorn. It’s a lot of responsibility. Do we to leave Ponyville and move to the castle now? Isn’t that where alicorns live?” Twilight asked, her voice full of concern.

"No dear, we can live wherever we want.” Luna told her. “I wish I could say that I understand what you’re going through but I've always been this way. Immortality is my natural state. Twilight, you helped me through a difficult time when I lost my wings and became mortal so I’m going to do whatever I can to help you discover everything there is to know about being an alicorn." Luna said.

Twilight kissed her mate. “I love you, you know that?”

“Yes, but I may need some convincing from time to time.” The midnight blue alicorn said with a smile. The two alicorns embraced each other again. Twilight rolled Luna on her back nibbling on her neck lightly. “Twilight, as much as love this, I don’t think I’m up for round two just yet.”

Twilight moved back to her side of the bed, pouting. “All right.”

Luna kissed her cheek. “Later my love, I don’t want you over exerting yourself.”

"Okay, later.” She said smiling.

Luna studied the reflective look on Twilight’s face. “Is everything okay dear?”

“There’s something still bothering me; Rarity and Spike were so happy together even though they knew that one day Rarity would pass on and maybe even Garnet too, leaving Spike alone.” The lavender alicorn said. “I thought they'd be overjoyed now, knowing that they would always be together."

"Immortality has its draw back as well dear. For some it means never having to leave behind the one you love." She said lightly kissing Twilight's cheek. "For others it can present certain problems."

"After what Apple Bloom said, I'm hesitant to think how the others are taking it." Twilight wondered.

"Well why don't we find out?" The Princess asked her.

"Now? But it's still early." Twilight argued. "Do you think any of them will be awake at this hour?"

"Oh, we won't be going in person. Ever since Discord said you were a true alicorn, I've wanted to teach you some new magic. This is a spell called astral projection." Luna explained. "You're physical form stays here but the spell allows your consciousness to go wherever you want."

"That sounds amazing. Lets try it!" Luna smiled at Twilight’s enthusiasm. “Oh, but what about the children?”

“They’ll be fine. Our minds may be traveling but we’re always tethered to our physical bodies. If they cryd out or if anypony came in the room, we would hear them and we can be back in an instant.”

Luna touched her horn to Twilight's. "I'll cast the spell first. Watch what I'm doing and be attentive of how the magic courses through our minds." Twilight watched as Luna’s magical energy swirled and formed, tracking through both their minds. "Now concentrate hard on a pony or place." The first thing to come to Twilight's mind was Pinky Pie. She felt a light tug on her mind and abruptly she found Luna and herself floating in Pinky's bedroom at Sugar Cube Corner.

Twilight was surprised by the change of environment. 'Oh no, they can see us. We're going to be in so much trouble.' She thought.

'It's okay Twilight. They can't see or hear us.' Luna told her.

'How did you know what I was thinking?' She asked the dark purple mare.

'On this plain, your thoughts are broadcast as loud as your voice. There are no secrets here.' Luna explained.

Below them, Pinky Pie and Braeburn were snuggled close in Pinky's bed. "Are you sure about this Braesy?" Pinky asked the amber colored stallion.

"Sure as shootin’ Pinks." He said, blowing some of his tussled blond mane out of his face. "I always wanted to find me a fun lovin’ mare to settle down with and I got tackled by just the right filly." Braeburn kissed her on the nose. "Whaddaya’ say Pinky? Will you be my mare forever and ever?

Pinky grabbed his Stetson hat from the bedpost and pulled it tight over her poofy pink mane. "Forever!" She said as she dived under the blankets slowly crawling towards Braeburn.

Luna looked at Twilight with a blush across her face. ‘Dear, I think we should be going. Unless you want to stick around and watch for a little while.'

Twilight's blush deepened. 'What? No, we really should be going.' Twilight concentrated hard. She felt another tug in her mind and found themselves in Rainbow Dash's bedroom. 'Are we always going to pop up in somepony's bedroom?'

'At this time of morning, most likely.' Luna thought with a smile on her face. Rainbow Dash and Soarin were snuggled in her cloud bed. Dash was sleeping soundly but Soarin was lying in bed watching her sleep.

Lightly kissing her ears he gently woke her. "Morning Apple Pie." He whispered.

Rainbow Dash smiled and snuggled closer, wrapping her wings around him. "It's too early. More sleep please."

"But Dash, if you don't wake this early all the time, you won’t be able to join the rest of us Wonderbolts."

The cyan blue pegasus came swiftly awake. "Wonderbolts?"

"That's right. I talked to Spitfire and the Commanding Officer. They said they'd be happy for you to join us." Soarin announced.

Rainbow Dash slowly slid out of bed and suddenly bolted to the bathroom. The sounds of vomiting came from the other room and after a while they heard the toilet flush. After composing herself, she walk back into the bedroom. “Oof, I hate throwing up.”

“Are you okay?” Soarin asked.

“Yeah, I’m fine, I guess dinner last night didn’t sit well with me.” She said. Rainbow Dash brushed her hair back with her left front hoof. "Soarin; babe, I wished you hadn't talked to Spitfire without talking to me about it first." She said, trying to control her frustration.

“Dashy?” He said with concern.

“You had not right to do that. I hate it when ponies make decisions for me, my parents used to do that and it ticked me off.”

"Why are you so upset, I thought this was what you always wanted Rainbow?" Soarin was baffled.

"Babe, how do I put this in plain words? To you and the others I may be a real member of the Wonderbolts but to me, I never would." She explained.

'I don't think I've ever heard Rainbow Dash talk so eloquently.' Twilight thought.

'Shh, I think it's about to get really good.' Luna returned.

"I don't understand." Soarin confessed.

"I've wanted to be a Wonderbolt for as long as I could remember. I've chased that dream my entire life. To have someone just hoof it to me cheapens that. If I don't earn it for myself, it won’t be worth anything." Rainbow Dash laughed. "Listen to me. I don't think I've been this serious, ever."

"Well,” he said smiling at her. "If you won’t accept that proposal, how about this one?" Soarin pointed out the bedroom window. Outside in the middle of the early blue sky, the rest of the Wonderbolts had spelled out in giant cloud letters "Will you marry me, Rainbow Dash?"

Rainbow Dash flew out the window so fast the airfoil she created pulled Soarin out of the bed and dropped him on the cloud floor of her bedroom. Outside the window, Dash took a sharp turn up into the sky then flipped around and rocketed toward the ground. Soarin stood at the window and watched Dash fly faster and faster until her speeding form broke the sound barrier creating a sonic rainboom. Soaring back into the sky with a long flowing rainbow streaking behind her, she dove beneath the giant cloud letters. Rainbow Dash flipped and twirled until she spelled out in beautiful rainbow script the simple response. “Yes!” Whirling around, she shot through the window and tackled Soarin back into the bed.

'I think that's our cue to leave. Who's next?' Luna asked. Twilight focused her magic again and the two alicorns appeared in Fluttershy's cottage.

'I decided to focus on a place more than a pony. Less embarrassing situations.' They were kept from any further thoughts by a soft crying they heard from upstairs. 'Oh no.' Twilight thought. 'I hope Fluttershy is okay.' They floated up through the floor into Fluttershy's bedroom and found that is what not Fluttershy crying, It was Big Macintosh.

'I must say; that's not something I would have expected.' Luna confessed.

Big Macintosh was curled up in Fluttershy's bed. The yellow pegasus was draped over his back, her wings wrapped around him. "I'm so sorry Macintosh. I never knew you felt that way." She said in her slow, metered way.

"No pony does. Everypony expects me to be the big strong pony. They take one look at me and they supposed that I was some cranky, stubborn, pigheaded stallion. I guess after a while I figured they were right." He said, trying to control his emotions. "Then you came along. Ever since that night when I was sick and you stood up to that bad attitude of mine, I've felt I can be myself around you. How can I ever thank you?"

"Marry me." She said plainly.

"What? I mean, are you sure?" He asked.

"Well." She blushed. "You asked what you could do to thank me. I can't think of anything I'd want more."

Big Macintosh rolled over and wrapped his hooves around her. "Of course, yes!" Fluttershy seemed to melt in the red stallion’s hooves. She looked like she was in heaven and her face was the picture of perfect bliss.

'That's so sweet.' Luna thought. Abruptly, Luna found herself in the barn next to the Apple Family homestead. She looked over at a smiling Twilight. 'That was unexpected. You could have warned me.'

'Yes, I could have warned you but I wanted to leave quickly. The last pony I'd want to spy on is Fluttershy.' Twilight thought.

'Another question is why are we in a barn? I figured if Applejack were our next stop we'd be in the house.' As if to answer Luna's question, the two mares heard a crash from the loft above them. They floated up through the floor and were extremely shocked at what they found.

"Is that all you got Caramel? You hit like a filly!"

Caramel was furious. His cheeks burned red as her charged across the loft, tackling Applejack into a stack of hay bales. "You're pinned! Give up!" He yelled at her.

"Never!" Applejack head butted him in the face.

Caramel staggered back a little and that gave Applejack the opportunity to buck him across the loft. The stallion landed hard against the floor and skidded to a stop. He slowly got to his hooves and faced the mare. Blood dripped from his nose as he charged her again. This time, just before he hit, he flipped around and bucked her hard into the stack of hay bales. Before Applejack could get up, Caramel tackled her and kept her shoulders pinned to the ground with his front hooves. "Stop struggling! You're pinned good and proper, now answer the darn question!"

"Of course I'll marry ya’." She said before reaching her head up and kissing her stallion.

Caramel was the first to break the kiss. "Applejack, why did you make me do that? I really didn't like it." He asked her.

"I'm sorry sugar but I had to know. It's stupid, I know, but I had to know you'd fight for me." She confessed.

"What?! That doesn't make any sense. Why would you want me to beat you up before you could agree to be my mare?"

"Sugar, I can be a might stubborn about a lot of things. If I'm gonna’ have you as my stallion than I need to know that you can stand up to me when I'm bein’ as dense as an anvil. Ask Rainbow Dash, she'll tell you about all sorts of arguments and wraslin’ matches we've had about one little disagreement or another. If you're gonna’ be with me I need to know you can hold your own."

"And what's the verdict?" He asked.

"Sweetie, you could give Rainbow Dash a run for her bits." Applejack tried to get to her hooves but found it a little difficult. Caramel helped to prop her us so she could stand. "I think you bruised a rib or somethin’."

"Sorry bout that. Here, let me help you back to the house. You should probably soak in a hot tub. I'll make breakfast for both us." Caramel smiled.

"You are definitely a keeper darlin’." Applejack said, kissing his cheek.

Luna and Twilight watched the couple make their way down from the loft. 'That was weird.' Twilight thought. 'Do you hear that Luna? It sounds like crying but I can't find where it's coming from.'

Luna listened for a second then smiled at Twilight. 'If I'm not mistaken, that crying would be two foals at the library wondering where their breakfast is.' The lavender alicorn concentrated hard and found herself back in her body at the library.

Twilight stretched on the bed after being in the same position for an hour. "Could you bring them over Luna? I'm feeling a little weak from all the projection."

Luna used her magic to pick up the twins from the cradle. "There there darlings, no need to cry." She floated the two foals down to the bed next to Twilight's abdomen. After searching around for a bit they found their mother's teats.

"Ooof. That's going to take some getting used to." Luna returned to the bed and laid herself down behind Twilight.

Luna watched their babies feeding. "Oh Twilight, aren't they just adorable? I’ll never forget the day they were born.”

“Trust me, neither will I.” Twilight said. Both ponies broke out into laughter. "Twilight. Uhm. There was something I wanted to ask you."

"What is it Luna? You know you can ask me anything."

"All of our friends we've visited this morning have proposed to one another. They're all getting married. I was wondering if you'd put any more thought into it?" Luna asked her nervously.

"Well, yes, I have thought about it." Twilight admitted. "I mean, I gave birth to our babies and while I never intend on leaving you, it would be nice to make it official. I didn't want to push the issue, I mean; I was the one who suggested we wait till after the birth. I figured we’d talk about it eventually."

"Twilight, I’m asking you now." Luna said nuzzling her lover's cheek. "Marry me. I want you to be the mare I spend my whole life with." Twilight’s eyes began to fill with tears of happiness. She had expected one day to marry the love of her life but she never expected it to affect her so powerfully. Luna kissed the tears on her lover’s cheeks. “Hey, don’t cry.” She said softly.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to cry. Yes,” she said, nodding her head. “Yes, I’ll marry you. You’re the only pony for me and I can’t think of anything I’d want more than to spend the rest of my life in you’re hooves.” Twilight wiped the tears from her face. “On one condition though, if we ever decide to have another foal, you carry it."

"Agreed." The two foals had finished feeding and were trying to stand. They flopped back down on top of each other and yawned. "Spike and Rarity should be up. I think we should go see what we can do for them. Also, I kind of promised my sister we'd stop by with the foals this afternoon. Sorry I didn't say anything earlier."

"That's okay dear. If you want to get them ready to travel, I'm going to take a shower." Twilight said as she headed for the bathroom. Without Luna to detain her in the hot water, Twilight's shower didn't take long. When she came out to the bedroom she could hardly keep herself from laughing. Luna had loaded a set of saddlebags with food, blankets, drinks and other sundries. In another pair she had placed the foals with a blanket in each of the two bags.

"What?" Luna asked. "We don't have a bassinet or anything. How else are we supposed to bring them?"

"No, it's fine." She giggled. "They look so cute in their bags. I'll carry the food if you want to carry the twins."

"Well, you carried them for eleven months. I suppose it's only fair." Luna and Twilight strapped on the saddlebags. Before they left the library, Luna looked to each side behind her to make sure the foals were secure and snug.

================================================================

Luna knocked on the door to the Carousel Boutique. After a short wait, Sweetie Belle opened the door. "Your majesties!" She said surprised. Sweetie Belle snapped smartly to attention.

"It's okay Belle, this is a social visit." Luna reassured her.

"Oh, well please come in." Sweetie Belle held the door open for them as they entered the store. "Where's Apple Bloom?"

"I've dismissed her for the afternoon, her sister was slightly injured this morning so I thought it best she help out around the farm, Twilight and I will be fine for a while."

"Okay." Belle led the two mares up the stairs and into the private apartment. "Is there something I can help you with?" She asked them.

"Is Garnet around?" Twilight asked.

"Yes, he's in his room. Do you want me to get him?"

"No, that's okay." Luna and Twilight walked to the little colt’s room and tapped on the door. Gently pushing the door open, they found the purple colt reading a book that Twilight had given him.

"Aunt Twilight, Aunt Luna. Why are you here?" He asked. "Is this because mommy and daddy are fighting?"

"Yes dear." Luna said. "But we're going to talk to them and sort it all out, I promise."

"While we're talking to your parents could you do us a favor and keep an eye on Dusk and Dawn for me?" Twilight asked him.

"Sure Aunt Twilight." The young unicorn colt said.

Luna floated the bags of her back and set them down beside Garnet. "You kids have fun. Belle let's go. I assume there in their bedroom?"

"Yeah." She said disheartened. "I'll go let them know you're here." Sweetie Belle walked back to Spike and Rarity's bedroom and gently tapped on the door. There was no answer. Sweetie Belle used her magic to quietly open the door and poke her head in. Rarity was sleeping alone in bed. Spike was curled up in a chair on the other side of the room. Sweetie Belle pulled her head out of the room and told Luna and Twilight what she saw.

"Okay, that's enough of this. Those two are too perfect for each other. I want to know what's going on." Twilight said as she walked into their bedroom. Walking over to the chair she nudged Spike until he woke up.

"Huh, wha...?" Spike rubbed his eyes. "Twilight, Princess, Sweetie Belle; what are you doing here?" He asked yawning.

"That's what I'd like to know." Rarity said after having been woken up by Sweetie Belle.

"We're here because we know you've been fighting and it's come to our attention that you're talking about splitting up. Is this true?" Twilight inquired.

"Your majesty, Twilight. We appreciate your concern but frankly dears I don't really see how it's any of your… Wait. How did you know what was happening?" Rarity asked.

Luna sat down next to a nervous Sweetie Belle. "Belle came crying to the library last night, very distraught. She told us you two had been fighting." Sweetie Belle had started to cry quietly.

"It's okay Sweetie Belle. We were uhm, just having a discussion last night that got a little heated. We're okay, I promise." Spike tried to reassure her.

"Spike's right dear, there's nothing to worry about." Rarity told her.

Sweetie Belle broke into uncontrolled weeping. She ran over and hugged Spike to her like a little doll. "I heard everything last night. I told the Princess I hadn't but I heard it all. I don't want you to break up. I don't want to lose you daddy!" Spike and Rarity were a little shocked at her statement. Sweetie Belle realized what she had said and ran crying from the room.

"I'll go after her. You three stay here and talk." Twilight said as she galloped after Sweetie Belle.

"Well, I'm waiting." Luna said.

"It's kind of personal and a little embarrassing to talk about." Spike informed her.

"Please Spike, there's nothing you could possibly say that would surprise me."

"We were arguing because I found out that I'll never be able to make love to Rarity." Spike said bluntly.

Rarity walked over and sat next to the little dragon. "I tried to explain that it didn't matter to me that I loved him anyway. But he wouldn't hear of it." She said, stroking his back with her hoof.

"Because it does matter. I mean waiting for a year or five is one thing but never? And by never I mean never, forever. I don't know if I can deal with that. I love you so much Rarity but the knowledge of never being able to share that kind of love with you ever again is hard to accept."

Rarity hugged her little dragon lover close to her. "Oh Spike. I love you too."

"How did you come by this knowledge Spike?" Luna asked him.

"I was in the library after Discord vanished and was checking on a few things when I ran across a book on dragon development. According to the book, one dragon year is three pony years. Discord said we'd age till we were thirty-six but while I'd be thirty-six in pony years as a dragon I'd only be the equivalent of a twelve year old. Dragons aren't capable of breeding until they're at least fourteen. In other words, I'll never be old enough to breed with means never being able to share that moment with Rarity ever again."

"There are other ways of physically expressing your love for one another. I'm sure Rarity's explained that." Luna said. "There's something else isn't there?"

"What am I going to tell Garnet?" He said, the tears starting to swell in his emerald eyes. Spike adopted a mocking tone. "Hey kid. Not only am I your dad but while you are an adult your dad is always going to be a child."

"You may look like a child but your mind is much older. I'm sure Garnet will be old enough to understand one day darling."

"That's rich coming from you Rarity. You still haven't told Sweetie Belle that you're her mother!"

Outside the boutique, Twilight was finally able to catch up with distraught filly as she started to cross the bridge into the town square. "Belle, wait!"

Sweetie Belle stopped halfway across the bridge. Looking down into the water, she couldn't help but start to cry again. "Oh Twilight, I'm afraid I've ruined everything." She said.

"Why would you even think that? Is it because you called Spike, daddy?"

"Because I said something I shouldn't have. Now Rarity is going to be mad at me."

"I don't understand Belle. You'd better start at the beginning."

"Okay. About a year ago, Rarity got a package in the mail from Canterlot while she and Spike were at a show in Philydelphia. The box was too small to be dress materials and I guess curiosity got the better of us so Scootaloo and I opened it. Inside was a letter and a bunch of random stuff, mostly pictures and medical files."

"What did the letter say?"

Sweetie Belle reached into her bandana and pulled a folded piece of paper and photograph out and hoofed it to Twilight. "I always keep these with me."

The photograph looked like Rarity but much younger holding a baby that looked surprisingly like Sweetie Belle. Twilight began to read the letter to herself. "That horrible mare!" Twilight shouted out. She took another look at the photograph. "But this means; Rarity is your mother. Why hasn't she told you? You shouldn't have had to find out like that."

"It's okay Twilight. I’ve had Scooty and Apple Bloom to help me deal with it over the last year. I’ve realized that it must have been hard for Rarity all these years but I figured she'd tell me when she was ready."

"Come on Belle. We should go back inside. I'm sure everything will be fine. Luna has a way of smoothing things over."

Back in Spike and Rarity's bedroom the conversation had taken an odd turn. "Wait, wait, wait. Back that hay wagon up a bit. Belle is your daughter?"

“Yes, yes she is.” The white unicorn confessed.

“I’m sorry Rarity, I didn’t mean to raise my voice.” Spike said, comforting his mate.

“It’s alright Spike, you’re right, I should have told her years ago.” Rarity said.

“Okay, what is going on?” Luna asked, confused about the recent turn of events. “Spike, how long have you known about this?”

“Pinkie told me, back when I was a pony.” He said. “I’ve been trying to get Rarity to tell her ever since but then Garnet came along and then the business with you and Twilight; I guess she got lost in the excitement of everything that was happening.”

“And the last three years?” The Princess asked.

“I didn’t know what to tell her. I don’t want her to hate me but I can’t see any way past it.” She said. “I’ve wanted to tell her; I wanted to hold her in my hooves and tell her I’m her mother and that I love her and that I’m sorry I lied to her for so long, but I just didn’t know how.”

"You could have tried that." Sweetie Belle said as she and Twilight returned to the room. “You could have just told me before I found out on my own. What did you hope to gain by hiding it from me?”

"I couldn’t. I was fifteen. If anypony knew they would have call FPS and taken you away from me.” Rarity cried. “I couldn’t let that happen so I lied, I lied to everypony.

“And the ponies that posed as my parents, who are they, really?” Sweetie Belle demanded.

“They’re my Aunt and Uncle. I told them that you were my sister as well. FPS showed up when you were two and they lied and claimed us as theirs. My uncle Carlton even called in a few favors at the hospital and had fake birth certificates made. No pony knew the truth except for Pinkie. I’m sorry Sweetie, I’m so, so sorry. I didn’t mean for this to happen. How did you find out?” She asked.

Belle dropped the letter she had been carrying for a year at Rarity's hooves. "Grandma told me but I'm sure she didn't mean to."

Rarity scanned the letter quickly; renewed tears of despair and disgust welled up inside her. She loathed her mother now more than ever before but she felt more disgust at herself. 'How could I do this to my own daughter?' Rarity looked at her daughter with unspoken regret on her face and tears pouring from her eyes.

Sweetie Belle ran across the room and hugged her mother tightly. Rarity broke down weeping again. "I'm so, so sorry my darling, I didn’t want them to take you away from me. I didn’t know what else to do. After so long I just wanted you to be happy, I didn't want to make things harder on you. I thought it would be easier this way. I'm so sorry I didn't tell you sooner. You should have heard it from me and not my ungrateful mother."

"Its okay, I forgave you months ago. I love you mom." The teenage unicorn said through tears of her own.

"I love you too my sweet, sweet angel."

Luna leaned down to Spike. "What are you doing over here? Go to them, your two girls need you right now. Don't worry, Twilight and I will do whatever we can to fix your problem." Luna nuzzled her little friend.

Spike ran over to Rarity and Sweetie Belle, doing his best to hug them both. "I love you both!"

"Can I still call you daddy?" Sweetie Belle asked.

"Of course you can." Spike said giving her a fatherly kiss on the cheek.

Luna and Twilight sat there watching the happy family. "I hate to leave, but we should really be going. We have an appointment with Celestia and we don't want to be late." Twilight commented.

"If there's anything we can do for you, please ask.” Luna said. “Spike, please be patient. Twilight and I will do everything we can for you."

"You got it Princess Luna; and thank you. Thank you for everything."

"Do you need an escort?" Sweetie Belle asked.

"We'll be fine. When we arrive in Canterlot, I'm sure Celestia will insist that my old guard follow me everywhere. Until I return, you and the other crusaders are on vacation, make the most of it." Luna said with a wink.

================================================================

Twilight and the Princess had collected the foals and were on their way toward the edge of town. "Should we check in on Lyra and Bonbon?" Luna asked.

"I'd really like to but I don't want to be late for our appointment with Princess Celestia." Twilight said as they passed the northeast marker of the town's border.

"We can always peek in on them later." Luna giggled. "Hey, isn't that Ditzy's house up ahead, the one that looks like a big mailbox? I don't usually approach it from the ground."

"Yeah, it is. I guess we could stop and say hi since it's on our way." Twilight offered.

Luna and Twilight were rounding the corner leading to Ditzy's home when Twilight noticed something happening in the back yard. "What's that?" She asked indicating the blue rectangular object rising into the sky.

"That's the Doctors machine. I think he calls it the TARDIS." Luna explained. The two mares watched the TARDIS rise higher and higher into the sky until they were blown back a good four feet by the thunderous explosion of the machine. Twilight and Luna dropped to the ground and shielded the foals as they tried to come to grips with what had just happened.

Paper Hearts

Luna the Matchmaker
Chapter 9 “Paper Hearts.”
By Steven Little
My Little Pony is © Hasbro

Paper Hearts

The heart of a pony is a fragile yet resilient thing.
At first glance it can seem resolute and strong,
The next, as brittle and delicate as that first perfect snow flake of winter.
The heart of a pony is a wonderful thing that can feel a love so strong,
A love so pure it burns with a radiance that rivals the sun.
When in doubt, it is capable of feeling such pain.
But the pain of the heart is not akin to the pain of the body.
When the heart aches, it rips at the soul.
The heart of a pony is a fragile yet resilient thing,
Whether it is strong or fragile,
Whether it is determined or defeated,
Their hearts are paper hearts.
And while they may have become tattered with time,
And faded and wilted from loss,
They remain, ready and waiting for that one perfect love
To remind them what life and love were meant for.
The heart of a pony is a fragile yet resilient thing.

“Are you ready Dinky?”

“You bet Doctor.” She responded.

“You know what to do?” He asked.

“Uh huh. You’re gonna' ask mom to marry you then I open the box and you give her the bracelet.”

The Doctor knelt down and looked Dinky in the eyes. “Dinky dear, are you sure you’re okay with this? I mean, me wanting to marry your mother because I understand if you don’t.”

“Of course I am. Doctor, my mom loves you. She’s good at hiding it but every time you go away on one of your solo trips she’s sad. I found her crying in her room once holding a picture of you. She was afraid you’d never come back. Every time you go away, she’s afraid you’ll never return. So am I. That’s why we always want to go with you.” The teenaged mare told him. “I don’t know who my real dad is, mom won’t tell me but I don’t care anymore. You’ve lived with me and mom for almost ten years and you’ve always been good to both of us.”

“Dinky, I lived in your back yard inside the Tardis.” He argued.

“I’m not dumb Doctor, I know you’ve spent the night with mom.”

“Dinky, I would never, ever call you dumb. You’re brilliant…”

“None of that really matters right now.” She said, interrupting him. “Please, let me get through this. Mom loves you and she deserves to be happy. I love you too; you’ve been more of a dad to me than anypony I’ve ever known. You even helped me get through my physics of magic class.” She said, hugging him.

The chestnut colored Stallion returned her hug. “Thank you Dinky, you have no idea what that means to me.” He said, drying the few tears that had started to roll down her cheek. “Are you ready to do this then?”

“Sure Doc.” She said with a smile.

“Okay, here goes nothing.” The Doctor took a deep breath and let it out slowly. “Ditzy, could you come down here for a moment?”

The gray mare walked down the stairs of her small home, into the front room. The home was small but large enough for her needs. It was never overly dirty or exceptionally clean. It was comfortable and felt lived in. She thought it odd to find the Doctor and her daughter sitting in the middle of the living room but shook it off. “What can I do for you Doctor?”

“Well Ditzy, uhm, It’s like this. We’re both immortal now. Sort of anyway, and I’ve been thinking quite a lot about this recently and was wondering, I mean I wanted to ask you.” The Doctor was stammering unexpectedly. “Would you be my wife?”

Dinky lifted the top off the box she was holding and revealed the gold bracelet set with a stunning light blue gem in the shape of an hourglass. “Taa, daa!”

Ditzy stared at the bracelet, completely speechless. She watched the light play off the surface of jewelry as a wave of memories came flooding back to her. When next she spoke, her typical bubbly personality had drained from her voice. “Dinky, muffin, could you put down the box and go to your room? I need to talk to the Doctor alone for a moment.”

Dinky had never heard her mother talk that way before and so did as she was asked. “Is everything alright Ditzy?” The Doctor asked.

Ditzy looked into the Doctors bright blue eyes. “Why, why would you want me? I’m not pretty, I’m not smart, and I’m always messing things up.” Ditzy began to softly cry.

“Ditzy, I love you!”

“I’ve heard the words before.” She said trying to stop her tears. “I love you. I need you; I want to be with you forever and ever. Only a few months later those words turned into, I can’t marry you, I’m sorry; I’m too young to be a father.”

“This is about Dinky’s father isn’t it? You’re parents warned me this might happen.”

“What do my mom and dad have to do with this?” She asked through her tears.

“It’s an old custom to ask a mare’s parents for permission to wed their daughter. They gave their blessing enthusiastically but they warned me how you might react.” The Doctor hugged the gray Pegasus mare tightly. “Ditzy, they told me everything. They told me how you had been used and betrayed. Darling, please believe me when I say that you are the smartest, prettiest, bravest, most dedicated mare I’ve ever known and I love you with all my hearts. To prove that I’ll never ever leave you I got you another present.” The Doctor pulled out a box from behind the sofa. This box had a large red button on top and no other distinguishing characteristics.

“This looks like the button from the TARDIS you told me to never ever push.”

“That’s because it is. I’m going to leave the choice up to you Ditzy. If you want me to stay here with you; if you want me to be your husband; if you want to be a father to Dinky, then push the button. However, if you don’t want any of that, don’t push the button. The choice is yours. I won’t force you to do anything you don’t want.”

Ditzy pounced on the Doctor, smothering him with kisses and tears. At the same time she pushed the large red button with her back left hoof. Dinky ran from the stairs where she had been listing and cannonballed into Ditzy and the Doctor. “Does this mean the Doctor is going to be my new dad?”

“Yes muffin, he’s going to be your new daddy.” A powerful explosion forced Dinky and Ditzy to cling to the Doctor in fright. “What was that?” The two grayish mares asked together.

“That was the TARDIS going away. I’m going to be here forever and I hope you’ll let me be here with you Ditzy.” The gray pegasus smiled and nodded her head. The Doctor reached over and took the bracelet from the box and affixed it on Ditzy’s left front leg, just above her hoof. New tears of joy poured down Ditzy’s cheeks.

The moment was destroyed when two alicorn mares came bursting through the front door. “Doctor, Ditzy are you two okay? We saw the TARDIS explode and feared you may have been in it.” Luna said concerned.

“No, no, we’re alright. I was just making a promise to my fiancée.” The Doctor explained.

“Fiancée?” Twilight asked.

Ditzy had gotten control of her tears and held up her hoof displaying the bracelet. “The Doctor and I are getting married. Isn’t it so exciting?”

Luna and Twilight hugged the gray pegasus mare. “We’re so happy for you.” Luna said.

“So, what happened to that blue box thingy?” Twilight asked. The Doctor related the incident to the royal couple.

“You know Doctor, you can be very melodramatic.” Luna said.

“So I’ve been told.” He responded.

“You didn’t have to destroy the TARDI for me.” Ditzy said, hugging him.

“Oh, I didn’t destroy it. You remember what I told you about the TARDIS? Even if I was able to destroy it, its destruction would take out half this sector of space time with it. No, I sent it home back to Gallifrey or rather, what’s left of it. The explosion must have been a by-product of a quantum tear in the…”

Ditzy place a hoof over his mouth to interrupt him. “Dear, you’re babbling again.”

“Either way, since I’m not much of a Time Lord anymore without the TARDIS, please call me, uhm, hmm.” The stallion had to think for a moment. “You can’t use my given name since it’s almost unpronounceable as it is; oh I know, you can call me Julian; I always like that name.”

“I thought you said your name was Doctor.” Ditzy said.

“Well yes and no, but we’re sworn not to reveal our real name to anyone as a matter of policy. Keeps the time line clean and all that.” He said, hoping she wouldn’t pry further.

“So you’re staying in Ponyville for good?” Twilight questioned him.

Julian looked into Ditzy’s golden eyes. “Why in Equestria would I want to be anywhere else?” Ditzy nuzzled against his neck.

“That’s so sweet.” Luna said. “I just had a wonderful idea. You’re getting married and with the exception of Rarity and Spike, the rest of us had the same idea. Why don’t you coordinate with Rarity, Pinky, and the others, and plan a mass wedding for all of us?”

“What a splendid idea. What do you think my dear?” Julian asked.

“That would be so much fun. I definitely think we should do it.” Ditzy said bouncing up and down.

“Luna and I will be in Canterlot for a while. Have Spike keep us informed of the preparations. I’m sure whatever Pinky and Rarity come up with will be special and memorable.” Twilight told her.

“Speaking of Canterlot, if we don’t get going soon, we’ll have to fly all the way so we can make it before nightfall.” Luna informed her mate.

“Alright. So long you three, we’ll get together again soon.” Twilight and Luna waved goodbye to the newly engaged couple as they walked out the door and onto the path.

The two ponies walked down the path outside the mailbox shaped home. “Do you think they can handle a flight?” Luna asked Twilight

“I’m sure it wouldn’t hurt. I’ll fly behind you to make sure they don’t wiggle out of their bags.” The two alicorns stretched and spread their wings; their primary feathers began to glow as the light breeze blew beneath them. With a powerful downward stroke, they were propelled into the air. Luna led the way to Canterlot while Twilight stayed back a bit watching their foals. At first they enjoyed the wind blowing through their manes but soon snuggled down in their bags and disappeared from view.

===============================================================

The sun was had started to set when they finally made it to the palace in Canterlot. “Twilight, why don’t you take Dawn and Dusk inside while I raise the moon. It shouldn’t take me long, I’ll catch up to you inside.” Luna used her magic to switch Twilight's saddlebags with her own containing the foals.

Twilight gave her lover a soft kiss. “Don’t be long.” The lavender alicorn trotted up to the main entrance of the palace and addressed one of the two door guards. “Twilight Sparkle to see Princess Celestia.”

The two guards saluted smartly. The guard closest to Twilight stepped forward. “The Princess awaits you presently in her private dining room, Mrs. Sparkle.” He said.

“Would you like us to attend to your bags?” The other guard asked.

As the guard approached, two grumpy foal heads popped up from the bags. “No thank you, I’ll manage them.” Twilight said smiling. Walking through the Palace, she noticed how much things had stayed the same. Nothing had changed since the last time she was there. Heading toward Celestia’s private dining room, Luna trotted up next to her. “That didn’t take long.” The former unicorn said.

“Nothing fancy tonight. I’m a little tired.” Luna said.

“Hopefully not too tired.” Twilight said, smiling as they entered the dining room. They noticed that dinner had been set out for them. Princess Celestia waited for them just inside the door.

“Welcome, you both must be tired from your journey. Please sit and have something to eat.” She said in her usual graceful manor.

Twilight bowed at her teacher’s hooves. “Thank you Princess and we apologize for calling on you at such a late hour.”

The Princess of the Sun knelt down next to her. “Twilight, stand up. You don’t need to bow to me anymore, and please address me as either sister or Celestia.”

Twilight had a confused look on her face. “I don’t understand.”

Luna laughed in spite of herself. “Oh Tia, stop teasing her. She doesn’t know how to sense your mental presence yet. The younger Princess said. “Twilight, she knows we’re engaged.”

“I’m sorry Twilight. I must confess that I’ve looked in on you two whenever I had a free moment. I’m very happy for both of you and I also know about the particular issue you two are having with Spike and Rarity. I feel very sorry for them, they’ve been through so much already I feel I should do something to help.”

“Any help you have would be gratefully accepted.” Twilight said.

“There was a spell written long ago by Equestria first Minister of Justice. It’s on the table in front of you.” Twilight used her magic to place the saddlebags containing the foals on the ground next to Luna. Carefully opening the ancient scroll, Twilight began to read as she ate the salad in front of her.

“Celestia, no. You know how I felt about Desmond. That pony had some serious issues.” Luna said upset.

“Desmond Blackhoof was a loyal member of the court. He did everything he could to anticipate every conceivable law that might be needed to keep order in Equestria.” Celestia countered.

Twilight left the table and walked over to where the foals were rolling around on the floor around Luna. Using her magic, she gathered them up and brought them to her for feeding. She began to feed the foals as she lay between Luna and Celestia. “That was an execution spell I just read wasn’t it?”

“Yes Twilight, that is exactly what it was.” Luna said. “There’s a reason that thing has been locked up in the vault. I wanted to burn it as soon as I found out about it.”

“As did I sister but given recent events I think Twilight might be able to alter the spell to suit our needs. Were you able to understand how the spell works?” Celestia asked her.

“I believe so. At first I thought the spell drained away a pony’s life force but as I studied it a bit more I realized that the spell actually accelerates the pony’s natural ageing process. Any pony inflicted by this spell could go from a foal to an elderly pony in a matter of days. Thankfully, the pony would not be conscious for any of it. I think I can control how much the subject can be aged but it will require a bit more than what’s here. That presents a problem.”

“What problem?” Luna asked.

“Well there are a few. First Spike would have to be protected while the spell is doing its work. Any injury sustained during the process could have unpredictable side effects. Secondly, we’ll need gems and plenty of them. Spike can subsist on the same food we eat but he regularly needs to replenish the nutrients and minerals his dragon body needs. This spell is going to tax his little body greatly. He’ll need a lot of those gems to maintain his mineral levels while the spell ages him.”

“That’s not a problem at all.” Celestia informed her. “We always keep a good supply of gems here at the palace for the various craft schools and the occasional visiting Dragon dignitary.”

“Was there any other issues dear?” Luna asked her.

“No, those were the only real issues.” She said. “Do you have some paper and a quill? I promised Spike I’d write him as soon as we came up with something.” Celestia floated over a quill and paper to Twilight.

The twins had finished eating and were rolling around on the floor. Dusk had grabbed Dawn’s ear and was chewing on her head. “Dusk, stop that please. Your sister’s head is not for eating.” Luna said picking up her son. Twilight wrapped up her letter and rolled it up before sealing it.

“Could you send this to Spike, Celestia?” Twilight asked as she picked up her daughter. “Poor Dawn, was your brother chewing on your head?”

Celestia sent the scroll and sat there watching Luna and Twilight with their children. “Would you like to hold them?” Twilight asked her.

“Yes, if that’s alright.” Celestia said with a smile.

“Of course it is Tia.” Luna said as the two foals floated over to her. Lying down, Celestia cradled the twins in her forelegs.

“There so darling.” She said. “I must say though. It seems that little Dawn has taken after your mother Twilight. I can see a lot of her in this little filly.”

Twilight gasped in shock. “Oh my goodness!”

“What’s the matter dear?” Luna asked concerned.

“My parents don’t know that their grandparents. I’ve been so busy with everything I haven’t had time to write to them.”

“Really; you couldn’t fine time to write to your parents in eleven months?” Luna asked, eyeing her mate suspiciously. “Twilight, do they even know that we’re together?”

“Uhm, no.” She said, her head hanging down. “I haven’t written to them since we’ve been together. I didn’t know what to tell them.”

“It’s a good thing they’ve been writing me.” Celestia said. “They’ve been concerned about your silence. I told them you were working on something very important so they wouldn’t worry.”

Luna yawned. “It’s late, we’ll go see them in town tomorrow.”

“What?!” Twilight shouted in surprise. “Don’t I get any say in this?”

“Twilight, they have a right to know that they have grandfoals. You had your chance to tell them your way and besides, I’d like to get to know future in-laws a little better. You do plan on inviting them to our wedding don’t you?” Luna asked. Celestia tried to contain her chuckle. “What?”

“I can see it now. You and Twilight knock on the door. When her parents answer the door Twilight says, Hi mom and dad. I know we haven’t talked in a while but I just came by to say, you’re grandparents now to my twins and Princess Luna sired them. We’re getting married and it’d be great if you were there.” Celestia unceremoniously laughed, rolling on the floor with the twins still huddled next to her. They were giggling cutely along with her.

Luna and Twilight laughed. “I guess it does sound funny but Luna’s right, they are my parents and they deserve to know. I don’t know how I’m going to explain the wings though.”

“Darling, from everything you’ve told me, your parents love you very much and I’m sure they will accept you no matter what.”

Twilight yawned. “I’m sure you’re right but for now, I could use some sleep.”

“Sister, is my room still made up?” Luna asked.

“Of course. It’s just as you left it.”

“Thank you, in that case I think Twilight and I are going to turn in for the night. I’m sure the twins could use some sleep as well.” Luna said as she gathered up the foals.

“Yes, the day has been trying and I must admit I’m more than a little tired. You two go get some sleep. I’ll see you in the morning after I’ve raised the sun.”

Luna and Twilight walked to Luna’s old bedchamber. Opening the door they found the room just as Luna had left it. A large bed stood towards the back of the room up a small flight of stairs. Behind that was a double door leading out to a balcony. In an alcove to the right of the bed was a large bassinette that Luna assumed Celestia had put there. Around the room, candles lit nearly every corner. The gentle flickering light gave the whole room a romantic feel. “Celestia really knows how to set the mood, doesn’t she?” Luna asked.

Twilight set the twins in the bassinette and slowly strutted over to the bed. She laid herself out across the silk sheets and gazed at Luna with a sultry look in her eyes. “Coming to bed love?”

===============================================================

Spike had gotten up from bed to use the bathroom. Both he and Rarity had gone to bed early after the taxing day they had. Rarity tried to be intimate with him but like so many nights before, it just wasn’t working. After using the facilities Spike turned out the light and headed back to the bedroom. Opening the door, he could hear Rarity crying in her sleep. The sound crushed his little dragon heart. Spike felt his stomach muscles clench up and let out an involuntary burst of flame. A message scroll appeared and dropped by his feet. Carefully unrolling the scroll Spike read it to himself.

“Spike,

The Princesses and I have found a way to age you to a point where, relations, with Rarity would be possible. Now before you get your hopes up, there is an extreme possibility of danger and maybe even death. I want you to talk to Rarity before you decide anything. This is something you both need to talk about. Please respond soon with your decision.

Always your loving sister,
Twilight Sparkle”

Spike couldn’t believe what he just read. Was it possible Twilight found a way to help him? ‘If there was anyone who could help, it would be Twilight.’ Spike thought to himself.

Slowly creeping back into the bedroom, he stroked Rarity’s mane and kissed her lightly on the neck. “I love you so very much Rarity but I have to do this, for us and for our family.” Spike ran from the room, tears streaming from his emerald eyes. As he ran through the apartment, unbeknownst to him, he dropped the letter and failed to see it roll under Sweetie Belle’s door.

===============================================================

Spike ran south of town till he found a particular cloud house hovering in the air. “Rainbow Dash! Rainbow Dash! Oh please wake up, it’s really important!” He shouted up at floating house.

Rainbow Dash poked her head out of the window. Her mane was more tussled than it usually was. Soarin was next to her looking down at the little dragon. “Spike, whatever it is it’d better be good for bothering us right now.”

“I need your help Rainbow. There’s an emergency at the palace and I need to get there right now.”

Rainbow Dash and Soarin flew down and landed in front of him. “What’s going on Spike?” Soarin asked.

“I don’t know, Twilight sent a letter to me saying that I need to get to Canterlot Castle as soon as possible. Rainbow, you’re the fastest pegasus in Equestria. I figured if anyone could get me there fast it’d be you.”

“You got it Spike. I can get you there in an hour or less.” Rainbow kissed Soarin on the cheek. “You wait up, I’ll be back in no time at all. Hop on Spike, let’s get you to the palace.” Spike jumped on Dash’s back and they took off into the air.

Rainbow Dash had not been joking. In just under an hour they had arrived in Canterlot “Thanks Rainbow Dash. I’ll go and uh, see what the emergency is. You go ahead back home. I’ll send you a message if we need you.”

“Uh, okay Spike, if you’re sure.”

“I’m sure. Talk to you later Dash.” Spike ran toward the palace.

At the entrance to Celestia’s castle, the young dragon hesitated. ‘It’s really late, I don’t want to wake anyone.’ He thought. Spike walked around for a while but he had a certain place in mind. He traveled past the shops and pavilions noticing Rarity’s recent creations in a shop window. He sighed and continued walking until he reached a particular alfresco restaurant. Rarity’s favorite place to eat in Canterlot. Spike continued down the road until he found himself in one of the many open squares in Canterlot but unlike the others, this one had a special meaning. ‘This is where we danced together. I still remember it. It was like we were the only ponies there.’ He thought to himself. ‘Ponies, that’s right. The last time I was here, I was a pony, I was happy. Now I’m a dragon again and I can’t stand it.’

Spike crossed the square and kept walking until he found a secluded grassy spot shaded by a single tree, a small stream running alongside it. ‘This is where we made love for the first and only time.’ He mused. The young dragon curled up on the grass and fell asleep, trying to relive one of the happiest memories of his life.

===============================================================

Luna reluctantly dragged herself out of bed. Walking out to the balcony, she could see her sister’s sun starting to rise in the east. Exercising her power as the Lunar Princess, she exerted her influence and lowered the moon. Looking out over the new day, she noticed a small purple bundle on the grass out at the edge of the royal estate. Stretching out her wings, she took off from the balcony. Silently she landed next to the stream she looked down at the dejected purple bundle curled up next to the tree. “Oh Spike, why do you do this to yourself?”

Luna used her magic to place Spike on her back. He moved slightly and mumbled in his sleep. “Just a few more minutes Rarity. Twilight had me up late re-shelving books.” Luna smiled slightly as he began to snore softly again. Carefully, she flew into the air and back to her bedchamber. Walking over toward the bed, she gently nudged Twilight with her hoof.

Twilight rolled over. “Good morning love. Did you sleep well?”

“Yes, very well in fact. But when I lowered the moon this morning, I found something.” Luna turned to her side revealing the sleeping dragon on her back.

The little dragon stirred and looked at an upset Twilight. In his shock he fell backward off of Luna’s back. “Spike, what are you doing here?” Twilight asked.

“Sorry Twilight, I got your letter last night and I was so excited that I had to come as fast as I could. It was still late and I didn’t want to wake anyone up so I found a quiet place and fell asleep.”

“Did you and Rarity talk about my letter?” She asked.

“Of course we did. I wouldn’t be here if we didn’t.” He said trying to hide his lie behind a false smile.

===============================================================

Sweetie Belle yawned and stretched in her bed. ‘Yesterday was great.’ She thought. ‘I got Rarity to admit she’s my mom, Spike is my new daddy, and after talking to Ditzy; Spike and Rarity decided to get married along with everyone else. It’s going to be such a huge celebration!’ Sweetie Belle was wearing a smile she had not worn in a long time. Walking toward her door to get some breakfast, she noticed a scroll on the floor. She picked it up and began to read it, assuming it was for her. Walking out into the front room she looked for her daddy but he was nowhere to be found. Running into their bedroom, she found Rarity crying in bed, another note crumpled on the floor.

“Mom, where’s daddy?” She asked.

“He’s not here sweetie; he may not come back.” Rarity broke down into tears again. Sweetie Belle hugged her mother tightly.

“I found this note from Twilight by my door. It says they found a way to make him older but it’s very dangerous.”

“I know dear, this other letter just arrived.” She said, picking up the crumpled paper from the floor. Sweetie Belle flattened it out and read.

“My Dearest Love,

I got a letter from Twilight and Luna last night telling me they had found a way to make me older. I’m sorry that I left without talking to you but I know you, you would have found a way to talk me out of it. I guess by now you must hate me and to be honest, I don’t blame you. You’ve suffered the ridicule and insults as much as I have and I hate myself for not being able to shield you from it.

I know it sounds like I’m doing this for selfish reasons but the truth is, I am a burden on you and the children. You deserve better, you all do. The children ought to have a father they can be proud of. You deserve to be with someone who doesn’t make you cry at night. Yes, I’ve heard you. When you think I’m asleep, I hear the tears come almost every night. Every tear that falls from your beautiful eyes is like a dagger through my heart. It kills me every night to hear you cry and so I’m going to do whatever it takes to dry your tears.

Do not blame Twilight or Luna. This is not their doing. They offered to find something, anything that would help and I’m accepting. Dearest, you know I would do anything for you but there are some things I have to do that I’m afraid you wouldn’t understand. I gave up being a pony for you because I love you and I wanted to be there for you as long as I could. Because of Discords meddling, things are different now. I don’t have to worry about out living you, Sweetie Belle, or Garnet. I have a chance to become the dragon I was meant to be, and the mate you deserve.

Rarity, I love you and our children very much but I cannot be a real father to them or a husband to you if I am destined to remain an eternal child. I hope you will think better of me should I… When I return.

Spike.”

Sweetie Bell dropped the letter, tears streaming down her once happy face. She hugged her mother more tightly than she ever had before. “Don’t worry mom, I’ll bring daddy home to us; I promise.” Picking up the letters, she kissed her mother’s cheek then ran to her room. Grabbing her crusader bandana and her badge of office given to her by Luna, she ran out the door of the boutique and into the road.

===============================================================

Crossing the bridge into town, Sweetie Belle headed northeast toward the White Tail Woods and Canterlot. High above her Rainbow Dash was flying with Soarin, stretching their wings after sleeping in that morning. They both spotted the young unicorn filly running through the woods by herself as if something was chasing her.

Swooping down, they stood in front of her on the road. “What’s up Belle, what are you doing out here alone?” Soarin asked her as she came skidding to a halt.

“I’m trying to catch of with Spike, it’s very important I reach him.” She informed them, almost out of breath.

“You’re never going to catch him like that, I flew him up to Canterlot last night.” Rainbow Dash informed her.

“You what?!” The teenaged unicorn shouted.

“Yeah, he came by the house last night, said there was an emergency in Canterlot and Twilight needed him up there right away.” Rainbow told her.

“What’s going on Belle?” Soarin asked. Sweetie Belle pulled out Spike's letter and held it out for Rainbow and Soarin to read.

The two pegasi scanned the letter. The anger in Rainbow’s eyes burned hotly. “That lying no good… liar! Hop on Belle I’m gonna’ take you up there and we’re both gonna’ kick his tail. Soarin, you go get the boys and get to the palace as fast as you can. Something tells me that Spike's only going to listen to reason from another guy.”

“You got it babe. I’ll start at Fluttershy’s place. Big Mac is not going to like this.” Soarin jumped into the air and sped off West to the yellow pegasus’s cottage. At the same time, Rainbow Dash flew off toward Canterlot.

===============================================================

Soarin swooped down to Fluttershy’s door. Knocking lightly, he waited until the door was answered. “Fluttershy, is Big Mac here, I need to talk to him, it’s urgent.”

“Yes, he’s here. Hold on just a second.” Fluttershy walked back into the house and called upstairs. “Macky, you have a visitor.”

Big Macintosh came down the stairs smiling at the blue pegasus stallion. “Hey there Soarin, how ya’ll doin’ this mornin'?”

“I wish I could say good but that’s not the case. It seems we had a bit of an incident last night.” He said.

“What’s going on?” He asked. As concisely as he could, Soarin explained everything that transpired last night and that morning. As he explained, the smile disappeared from his Big Macintosh’s face. “Let’s go Soarin. We’ll get Caramel next then grab Braeburn and the Doctor.”

The two stallions walked out the door only to be stopped by Fluttershy. “Macky, wait. Please, don’t hurt him. He’s confused and I don’t think he understands what his actions are doing.” She said.

The large red pony shook his head. “Shy, I love you more than any pony has a right but sometimes a stallion’s got to do what a stallion’s got to do. Spike needs to stop bein' selfish. I promise I won’t hurt him butterfly but I can’t speak for the rest. He hurt Rainbow last night and somethin' tells me Rainbow aint gonna’ let it go.” Macintosh kissed her on the cheek. “Why don’t you go see Rarity, she could use a friend right now.”

“I will dear. When you talk to the other girls, please send them also. I’m sure Rarity can use all the help she can get right now.” Fluttershy requested.

“I will, I promise.” He said, smiling at his mate.

===============================================================

True to his word at each house they stopped, Big Macintosh recruited another stallion and sent another of the mares to Rarity’s. Running northeast from town they stopped at Ditzy’s home. Braeburn knocked on the door. It wasn’t long before Dinky answered the door.

“Why hello there little darlin’. Is your mom here?” Braeburn asked.

The grayish teenaged unicorn looked at him a little strange until she saw Big Macintosh behind him. “Yeah, she’s here, ome in.” The four stallions stood around in the entry until Ditzy and Julian came down.

“Hey Doc, we need to talk to you about something.” Braeburn said.

“Of course my good sirs. And my name is Julian now, I’m not the Doctor anymore.” The four stallions informed him of the events of the previous night and morning. “That’s odd. I’ve known Spike as long as I’ve lived here and it doesn’t seem like him. Granted, he’s a dragon and an adolescent dragon at that. Hormones are a powerful motivator of behavior. But still I can’t think he would do something like this.”

“Believe it Julian.” Caramel said.

“Are you sure?” Ditzy asked. “Why would Spike do something like that?”

“The dragon has gone and gambled with his life just because he can’t knock hooves with Rarity.” Macintosh said.

“I see. Ditzy, why don’t you and Dinky go over to Rarity’s Boutique and see if you can cheer her up a little, I’ll go with these fine fellows and see what I can do.” Julian told her.

“Okay, come on Dinky, let’s go!” She shouted excitedly.

Julian watched the two most important mares in his life gallop off into the distance before turning his attention back to the stallions standing just inside the door. “With this new development, it appears that Spike is more of a kindred spirit than I thought.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Soarin asked.

“It means that for the last several years, I was not capable of having any kind of intimate relationship with Ditzy. I wanted to but I was a Time Lord. My responsibilities forbade any kind of intimate relationship with anypony. Now that I’m not a Time Lord anymore, I can pursue her and indeed I am. I’ll come with you four to talk to him but I will not chastise the boy. He and Rarity deserve to have as full a relationship as any one of us.” Julian grabbed the multicolored scarf Ditzy made for him and quickly joined the other stallions before continuing on their way to the palace.

===============================================================

Rainbow Dash followed Sweetie Belle up to the palace gates when the guards stopped them. “Let me do the talking.” She said.

“Halt!” One of the guards commanded. “What is your business in the castle?”

“My name is Sweetie Belle, I’m one of Princess Luna and Lady Twilight's personal guards from Ponyville. Please let me pass.” The guards did not move. Sweetie Belle held up her badge of office, a medallion with a picture of the crescent moon emblazoned on it.

The Guards parted and allowed her to enter. “Our apologies ma’am. There have been some strange goings on around the Castle as of late.”

“What sort of goings on?” The unicorn asked.

“Come on, do we really have time for this?” Rainbow Dash asked impatiently.

“It might be important Rainbow, I need to know everything that might impact my position.” Sweetie Belle told her before turning back to the guard.

“There have been unidentified ponies loitering around the perimeter of the estate and twice we’ve apprehended ponies masquerading as royal pages or castle staff inside the palace.” He said. “Our commanding officer has instructed us to scrutinize any pony trying to gain access to the Castle.”

“I understand. I have important business inside with Princess Luna and Lady Twilight. Could you please direct us to them?”

“Certainly; Lady Twilight and the Princess are in the third room down the second corridor on the left.” Sweetie Bell and Rainbow Dash nodded to the guards and hurried inside.

===============================================================

The two ponies rushed down the hall indicated by the guard and, following is directions, they arrived at the correct door but found it locked. Rainbow Dash pounded on the door with her hoof. “We know you’re in there Spike. You best get your scaly butt out here before I break my way in. You’ve got some explaining to do.” The door creaked open to find a ragged Twilight on the other side of the door. “Twilight, what happened to you?”

“I’m okay Dash. We just completed the aging spell on Spike and it seems that the spell took a lot more out of Luna and myself than we counted on. Casting the initial spell is easy but controlling the rate of ageing was difficult to say the least. We’ve already completed the change but he needs to stay where he is for a while yet.”

“Where is he?” Sweetie Belle asked, barging into the room. The room was in fact a clerical office that had sat unused for years. An ornate desk had been moved against the far wall and Princess Luna was lying on a cardigan next to a large, multicolored object resting on the floor.

“He’s over there, inside that cocoon of gems.” Twilight said. The gems are reinforced with magic and replenishing his dangerously low mineral levels. Unfortunately, they’re also the only things keeping him alive right now. We’re just going to have to wait now and hope he pulls through.”

Sweetie Belle ran into the room and threw herself over the cocoon. “Why Daddy, why did you do it?”

Not All Tears Are Sad

Luna pulled the crying Sweetie Belle towards her. "It's okay dear. You must be careful, the shell of gems and magic are the only things keeping Spike alive right now. Should it break, we might loose him."

"I don't understand, what's going on Rainbow Dash? Why are you two here?" Twilight asked.

"I'm here to knock the stuffing out of that dragon as soon he gets out of there." She said.

"Has everypony gone crazy, what is going on?" Twilight demanded.

"Last night, Spike told Rainbow Dash that there was an emergency and that you needed him here." Sweetie Belle explained. "This morning, mom got a letter from Spike." Sweetie Belle gave the letter to her.

Twilight scanned the parchment quickly. "Oh Spike, you didn't have to lie to us. We would have understood.”

Luna could see the sadness and disappointment written on her mate’s face. "Rainbow Dash, please return to Ponyville and see to Rarity. Try to keep her calm and inform her that Spike is okay and will be back there as soon as possible." She told her.

"I aint going anywhere till I settle with Spike. I hate being used and lied to."

Twilight rubbed her temple with a hoof. "Dash please go, I'm tired, I’m worn out, Dawn and Dusk still need to be fed and I am in no mood to deal with this right now. I promise, when Spike wakes up we will deal with him. Anything else that needs to be said can wait till he gets back now shoo!"

"Okay, okay but the next time I see him I'm gonna’ bust him in the chops!" Rainbow turned and left in a huff.

"Belle dear, Twilight and I are going to go lay down and rest for a while. We need the respite after completing such a difficult spell. Could you do us a favor and watch over Spike?" Luna asked.

Sweetie Belle saluted smartly. "You can count on me Princess." She ran over and laid down next the gem cocoon that held the only father she had ever known.

Luna and Twilight left the room and were on their way to the bedchamber when Luna stopped them. "I just had an idea, hold on a moment." Luna closed her eyes and her horn began to glow. She stood there for a few minutes then opened her eyes, smiled and trotted off toward the bedroom.

"Dear, what did you do?" Twilight asked.

"Not much, just arranged for someone to keep Belle company while we sleep." Luna informed her mate.

===============================================================

Back in Ponyville, Scootaloo shook her head, trying to shake the image of Princess Luna out of her mind. 'Was that real?' She asked herself. 'Was it a dream? Luna said Sweetie Belle needs me. Well even if it was a dream I can't let her down.' Jumping from the edge of the cloud she had been sleeping on, the young orange pegasus opened her wings and flew towards Canterlot. She didn't know why she needed to go there but every fiber of her being told her that Sweetie Belle would be at the Palace in Canterlot and that she needs her help.

Scootaloo was faster than the majority of pegasi in her class but nowhere near as fast as Rainbow Dash or Soarin. Even with her ability to reach speeds her classmates couldn’t, Scootaloo’s wings were still smaller than average and it took her hours to reach the outskirts of the city. The young Pegasus rested on a cloud to catch her breath. Her wings were soar and her lungs felt like they were on fire from the exertion. As she tried to regain control over her breathing, down below her she saw a group of five stallions talking. Straining her ears she just make out what they were saying.

"Are you sure Soarin?" Braeburn asked him.

"Sure I'm sure. Rainbow Dash was heading back to town. I flew up and asked her what was going on. She told me that Princess Luna and Twilight had already cast their spell on Spike. Seems he lied to them too. Told them that he had talked everything over with Rarity and Sweetie Belle. By the time they got there it was too late to do anything about it. We'll just have to wait till he comes out of the shell they put him in before we have our little chat."

"Wait nuthin’. I'm gonna’ knock some sense into that that boy even if I got to bust him outta’ that shell myself." Big Macintosh stated.

"That a bit harsh isn't it? I'm sure we can come to some sort of rational agreement here." Julian pleaded. “Saorin, didn’t you say that shell was keeping Spike alive?”

“Yeah, that’s what Rainbow said.”

“Of course Twilight would say that, those two are like brother and sister.” Macintosh said.

“Until I get confirmation on Spike’s condition, I wont lay a hoof on him and I won’t allow any of you to harm the boy.” Julian said, steadfast in his statement.

"Your too soft Julian. Spike practically abandoned Rarity and their foal. That's just not the sort of thing you do. Spikes only caring about himself. If it takes a bit of ruff and tumble to get that through his scaly head, then so be it.

"Caramels right there Julian. Spike knew he had responsibilities now. He knows he can't just dump them on Rarity when the mood suits him." Braeburn added.

“I can understand why all of you are upset and if it’s true, he’ll answer to me as well. I just think we all need to calm down and find out exactly what’s happening before we do something we’ll all regret.” Julian pleaded with them.

'This was what Luna was trying to tell me. It wasn't a dream after all. I've gotta’ warn Belle.' She thought to herself as she shot off toward the palace.

===============================================================

Flying right up to the main entrance, she hovered in front of the guards and showed them the purple amulet hanging around her neck. "My name is Scootaloo, personal guard to Princess Luna and Lady Twilight. Let me pass please it's very important that I see Sweetie Belle."

"The filly you seek is in the third room down the second corridor on the left." One of the guards informed her. The guards stepped aside and admitted the pegasus into the palace. Scootaloo ran through the palace to the room the guards indicated. Bursting in she found Sweetie Belle curled up next to a glowing pink cocoon.

"Belle, Belle, wake up!"

"Scooty, what are you doing here?" She asked.

"Princess Luna sent for me, she said you needed help."

"But I'm okay, or as okay as I can be with my daddy in this thing." She said.

"But there's five stallions coming to get Spike. Big Macintosh, Braeburn, Caramel, Soarin and some pony that looks like the Doctor but they call him Julian. I heard them as I flew over. They're really mad at Spike about something."

"Oh my gosh! I need to get out there quick." Sweetie Belle gave Scootaloo a quick kiss on the lips. "Thanks for rushing here so fast to help." The teenaged unicorn raced out of the room and headed for the main entrance of the Castle.

As the unicorn skidded to a stop at the entrance to the Castle, the two door guards rushed up the. "Miss Belle is everything alright? Is there something we can do for you?" The guard on her left asked.

"Yes, as a mater of fact there is. Five stallions will be arriving here shortly. I will deal with them.” She told them, resentment burning in her eyes. “I want both of you to remain at your posts. Should they get past me however, I want you to stop them. They are not to enter the Palace."

"Are these the orders of Princess Luna?" The other guard asked.

"In a round about way, yes. Spike the dragon is gravely ill and the Princess has charged me with his safety. The ponies approaching the palace are not bad ponies but I believe they mean the small dragon harm."

The two guards look at each other and smiled at the junior guards ambition and tenacity. "We are at your command Miss Belle." Sweetie Belle sat between the two guards waiting as one by one, the five stallions made there way to the front entry of the Palace.

"Halt!" Sweetie Belle said in as commanding a voice she could muster.

The five ponies came to a stop, shocked at the unicorn filly's tone. "We aint got time for your games Sweetie Belle. We got business inside with Spike." Macintosh said.

"If you want my daddy then you're going to have to go through me first." She stated brazenly.

None of the stallions were surprised at the statement as word had gotten around about Rarity and Sweetie Belle's true relationship. "Sweetie. This doesn't really concern you. I don't think you understand what's really goin’ on here." Braeburn said dismissively.

"Like heck I don't!" She yelled at him. "You think I don't understand that Spike thought the only way he could be a real daddy to Garnet and me or a husband to Rarity was to take drastic steps? He’s risking his life for us. You can’t possibly know what he’s going through; nopony understood. They can't possibly know."

Julian stepped between the two parties. “Now now, there's no need for shouting. Sweetie Belle. Why is this so important to you?" He asked.

"I hear mommy crying almost every night. I see Spike sad and depressed all the time. I asked her about it once and she told me that she’s sad because ever since Garnet was born, they’ve tried to be intimate but each time it just made Spike depressed. It hurt my mom to know she couldn’t show her love for him without causing him pain.”

“That’s because he’s a kid, Sweetie Belle!” Caramel shouted. “By all counts those two shouldn’t even be together. But here we are, Rarity had a kid with him and child or not he has to live up to that responsibility.”

“Buck you Caramel! Spike’s twenty-two years old, that makes him an adult! It’s not his fault that he ages slower than we do! You have no idea what that's like, none of you! You can’t understand what it’s like, not being able to really be with the one you love. I know what you all are thinking. You think Spike is being selfish. You think he's doing this for no other reason than to have sex with Rarity."

"Sweetie Belle!" Macintosh shouted. "You watch what you say around your elders."

"No, I won't!" She said stamping both of her front hooves down; tears of anger, furry, and sadness rolled down her cheeks. "When was the last time any of you actually made love to your filly?! Was it last night, the week before?!" She stood there staring at one then another, trying to control her emotions. "The last and only time my daddy made love to my mom was over four years ago! Sex is sex but if you could never really make love to that one pony you love more than anything in the world, how would you feel?1"

"We don't have time for this." Soarin said as he flew into the air and attempted to enter the palace through one of the windows. Soarin did not get far when Sweetie Belle used her magic to grab him by the tail, forcefully yanked him out of the air and threw him to the ground.

"Sweetie Belle, what have you done?" Caramel asked shocked.

"I’m sorry but I did what I have to!" Sweetie Belle took up an aggressive posture, pointing her horn menacingly. "I've been trained by the Royal Guard Academy on how to use this thing. If you try to pass me, I will use it!" She yelled, breathing hard.

"Don't be foolish Belle. You can‘t hope to stop all of us." Soarin said, getting back to his hooves.

"She doesn't have to!" Sweetie Belle turned her head to find Scootaloo and half a contingent of Celestia's royal guard to back them up. Scootaloo stepped in front of her and adopted the same stance Sweetie Belle had a moment earlier.

Spreading her small wings in a protective manor, shielding Sweetie Belle, she sneered at the stallions. "You five should be ashamed of yourselves. Especially you Soarin, you knew Belle and I were seeing each other!”

The other stallions looked at Soarin curiously. “I didn’t lay a hoof on her, this has nothing to do with either of you we’re just trying to get inside to talk with Spike.” The blue pegasus tried to explain.

“Really? You expect me to believe that? I heard you, all of you; you’re so angry at Spike that you’re ready to break him out of the shell that’s keeping him alive. Are you really so angry at him you’d risk his life?”

“I never said that, I just wanted to talk to him; find out why he lied to your mother and everypony else.” Soarin said.

“Well now you know so what are you five going to do now? Are you going to continue picking on my marefriend? Are you going to keep picking on somepony almost half your age? You're all patronizing and dismissive of her because either you think she's too young or too inexperienced to know what she's talking about. Let me tell you, she knows the difference between sex and making love. Sweetie Belle and I have been sharing a bed for the last few months. She may be young but I can assure you she's not inexperienced. Now, if you colts are done I suggest you turn around and go back to Ponyville. You can do more good there than here."

"I think you five could learn a lesson from these two."

All the quarreling ponies looked up to see Princes Celestia standing in the doorway. They immediately bowed in reverence. "Rise, please. You five came here with what I believe was the best of intentions but on the way you got yourselves fuming and ready for a fight. Doctor, or is it Julian now? You were the voice of reason in this group and for that I thank you. The rest of you should calm down. These two young mares gave you every reason to try and understand what's really going on here but you were too angry and upset to listen. I think Scootaloo is correct. I think it best you return to Ponyville. I will personally see to it that Spike is made aware of the repercussions of his actions. I hope you all can trust me with this task.”

"Yes Princess." They said in unison.

The five stallions turned to leave but Soarin stopped and walked back. “I’m sorry Scootaloo, you too Belle, I didn’t intend to get so mad; I just don’t like seeing Rainbow being taken advantage of. I wouldn’t have really hurt Spike and I’d never lay a hoof on Sweetie Belle, especially now, she packs quite wallop.”

Scootaloo cracked a half smile. “Yeah, she does; you should have seen here during training.”

“Sorry about that.” Sweetie Belle apologized.

“Don’t be, I crossed the line; you were just protecting Spike.” He said. “So, are we cool girls?” The blue pegasus asked.

“Yeah, we’re cool; I couldn’t stay mad at the guy who’s gonna’ marry mom.” She said smiling.

“Yeah Soarin, don’t worry about it; I’m sure you meant well.” Sweetie Belle said.

The blue pegasus smiled back at Scootaloo and her marefriend then galloped off to catch up with his friends.

===============================================================

Stepping back into the palace, Sweetie Belle began to shiver uncontrollably. Scootaloo was right there to help prop her up. "Belle, are you okay?"

"Oh dear." Celestia said. The Princess turned to her captain of the guard who was never far away. "Commander Stormwing, please get Splints here and hurry." The white Pegasus took one look at Sweetie Belle and rushed off after giving Celestia a sharp salute.

Scootaloo held the shaking filly tightly, trying to calm her down. "What's wrong with her Princess?" Scootaloo asked. “Is she going to be okay?”

"It's battle shock." An olive green Pegasus said.

“But she wasn’t in combat, she was protecting her dad from those stallions outside.” Scootaloo explained.

"It doesn’t matter, she had so much adrenalin running through her body for so long that her system is having a problem dealing with it." Splints explained.

"Will she be okay Splints?" Celestia asked.

"Yes your majesty. She just needs to rest." He said.

"In that case, I suggest we put her in with her father.” The Princess said. “Scootaloo, I'm counting on you to watch over them both."

"Yes your majesty, I won't let you down." Scootaloo said saluting the elder Princess.

===============================================================

Sweetie Belle slowly opened her eyes; a loud crunching noise assaulted her ears. Belle rolled over in the direction of the noise and jumped up, shocked at what she saw. A purple dragon was sitting in what was left of the gem cocoon, slowly devouring it. "Daddy?" She asked.

"Hello my little angle." He said.

Sweetie Belle jumped on the dragon wrapping her front hooves around his neck. "Daddy! I'm so happy you're all right. You had us all worried."

"I'm sorry Sweetie. I didn't mean for this to get so complicated but I know that your mother would have found a way to talk me out of this if given the chance. She can be very persuasive when she wants to be." Spike set Sweetie Belle down on the floor and slowly got up to stretch.

Spike had certainly grown. He stood as tall as Big Macintosh but now he walked on all fours instead of only two feet. His body was a little longer than most ponies and his tail followed behind him thick but tapering out into a spade shaped point. His neck was also slightly longer than that of a normal pony and his face was no longer flat and babyish. Instead, his snout extended a good five or six inches from the rest of his face. Below his chin was a small patch of green fur about two inches long. On his head and down his back, where his green scales had been before now had a green mane that flowed down his head, neck and back. It wasn't overly long but short enough to look neat. From the front corners of his mouth stood the same too small fangs but now Sweetie Belle assumed they were larger than they used to be. Spike could feel Sweetie Belle studying his new form. “I guess I'm going to have to get used to walking like this from now on. It's not that different from when I was a pony."

"We do good work don't we darling?" Luna and Twilight had been standing in the doorway.

"Yes we do." Twilight said smiling. "But Spike, I must say that you've disappointed me. You didn't have to lie to get this." Twilight lectured him. "If you told us how you felt, like you told Rarity, we would have gladly helped."

"Indeed." Princess Celestia walked gracefully into the room. "I hope you understand just how precious that little daughter of your is. She faced down four full-grown stallions that were quite upset with you, and by herself no less. I spoke to the guards. She had given them instructions not to assist her unless they got past her."

"She did?" Spike asked.

"Yes Spike. From what I heard she ruffed up Soarin with her magic. She even threatened them with the business end of her horn if they tried to get past her to you." Twilight informed him. "You have a lot of apologizing to do in Ponyville. I suggest you go take care of it as soon as possible. A carriage is waiting out side to take you Scoot and Belle back home. We'll be back sometime in the next few days."

Spike gave Twilight a big hug. "Thank you so much Twilight. I'll never forget this."

Twilight gasped for air. "Spike. Can't, breath!"

Spike released her immediately. "Heh, sorry Twilight, guess I don't know my own strength anymore." He turned to Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo. "Come on girls. We have a bunch of ponies to surprise."

Spike walked toward the door with Sweetie Belle riding on his back and Scootaloo walking beside them. He stopped in the doorway and looked back at the royal family with tears in his deep emerald eyes. "Thank you so much." He said scarcely above a whisper. He nuzzled Sweetie Belle's cheek then continued to the carriage.

Celestia wiped a tear away looking at the other two alicorns. She saw in their eyes the same emotions she herself was feeling as they watched Spike leave for home. "Speaking of surprises." Celestia said. "Shouldn't you get to your parents house and let them in on you're three little secrets."

"You right, they're expecting us in an hour. Luna can you get the twins ready, I'll meet you by the front entry."

"What are you going to be doing while I'm getting Dawn and Dusk?" Luna asked

"I'll be trying not to freak out."

===============================================================

Princess Celestia walked toward the entrance to the palace and found a very nervous Twilight Sparkle pacing back and forth. “Twilight, is everything all right?” She asked, concerned.

“Everything is fine. I’m just going to tell my parents, whom I haven’t spoken to or even written to in four years, that I’m a filly fooler, I’m marrying Princess Luna, and oh hey we used a magic spell and now they have twin grandfoals.” Twilight rambled sarcastically.

“Oh, is that all?” The Princess asked, trying to diffuse the situation.

“Celestia, I’m afraid they wont love me anymore.” Twilight admitted. “You know them, my parents were raised in the ways of the old nobility; what if they don’t approve of my relationship with Luna? What if they don’t accept their grandfouls? What if…”

Princess Celestia held up a hoof to silence the comparably young alicorn. “Twilight, calm yourself. Yes, I know your parents; better than you do apparently. I’ve known your mother since the birth of Shining Armor. Only your mother would refuse to reschedule a royal audience on account of being in labor.” The Princess chuckled, remembering the incident. The white alicorn sat next to her former pupil. “Your parents may have been raised in the old nobility but they have their own thoughts and ideas; so much so that both of them called off arranged marriages so they could be together. Trust me Twilight, everything is going to be fine.”

"I agree with Tia.” Luna said as she walked up to her mate with their foals securely snuggled down in her saddlebags. “I only met your parents briefly during your brothers wedding but they seemed like ponies who love their children.”

“You see Twilight, you have nothing to fear.” Celestia said, giving her future sister-in-law a reassuring hug. “Now, while you two are out and about in town, I was wondering if you could run a small errand for me?”

“I don’t see why not.” Luna said.

Celestia gave a scroll to Twilight emblazoned with the royal seal. “After Sweetie Belle’s concert four months ago, I realized that my school for gifted unicorns could benefit from an expert in illusion magic. After an exhaustive search I’ve found an excellent candidate. As my prized pupil, I’d like you to extend the invitation Twilight.”

“I’d be honored, who is it?” She asked.

“I think I’ll let you discover that on your own but you can find her at the Noonvale Theater; it’s located on Beethooven lain in the arts quarter.” Celestia told them.

“Sister, are you up to something?” Luna asked.

“I have no idea what you’re talking about little sister.” Celestia said with a smile. “Off you go now; if you hurry you should get there between performances.”

===============================================================

Luna and Twilight approached the Noonvale Theater, escorted by a small contingent of six royal night guards. “Dear, was the escort really necessary?” Twilight asked. “There are so many ponies starring at us.”

“Trust me darling, there would be many many more ponies looking at us if the guards weren’t here. I’m just happy the children are sleeping; this kind of attention is not what they need at their age.” Luna explained.

“Your grace, we’ve arrived. Lady Twilight, I think you may want to see this.” The lead guard said.

Twilight walked up to a performance poster plastered to the front wall of the theater next to the door. “Oh no, no no no no no, this is not happening.” Twilight said, shaking her head. The poster in front of her depicted a particular unicorn mare that was made up to look like Twilight.

Luna walked up next to her mate. “The resemblance is passable but the mane and tail are all wrong. Do you know this pony dear?”

Twilight was fuming. “Oh yes, I know her.” She said barging through the front door. Seeing a pony behind the ticket counter, Twilight marched right up to him. “Where is she? Where is that imposter?” She demanded.

The entrance of Twilight, Luna, and six royal night guards startled the stallion behind the counter. For a moment, the yellow unicorn stallion stood there staring at them with his teal eyes. He brushed his short red hair out of his face and blinked his eyes as if he was unsure of what he was seeing. Suddenly he busted up laughing. “Oh that was good Trix! You had me going for a moment there! Wow, you really got me. Hey, I thought you said you didn’t want to reproduce Twilight’s appearance exactly and what’s with the wings, a new addition to the act?” The stallion walked around the counter and approached one of the guards. “These guys look so real, babe you are defiantly getting better.” He said poking the royal guard in the chest. The guard in question wasted no time pinning the unfortunate stallion to the ground.

From the upstairs suit of the theater a particular mare heard a commotion and decided to investigate. Her light blue mane bounced of it’s own accord as she trotted down the stairs that led to the theater lobby. “Sethy, is everything okay?”

“The Great and Powerful Trixie I presume?” Twilight asked accusingly.

"Twilight? What’s going on here? Who are all these ponies, what…” Trixie stopped mid-sentence when she saw the Princess. “You’re majesty, we apologies for yelling; Princess Celestia told me you and Twilight would visit but we did not expect you so soon.” She tried to explain while

The guard that had the unicorn stallion pinned to the ground allowed him up with a nod from Twilight. He walked to Trixie’s side. “Perhaps you would like to explain why my fiancée is being impersonated in this theater. I know what happened between you two and I would assume this is your sick way of getting revenge. Are you using this theater to smear her good name?” Luna demanded.

A young, light blue unicorn colt with a red mane and tail came running down the stairs and jumped in front of a shocked Trixie. “You leave my mommy alone! Why are you being so mean to her?!” He demanded.

Trixie reached out and snatched up her son. “Its okay Rusty, Mommy and Daddy are just, uhm, auditioning these ponies, it’s all an act, you remember what I told you about acting right?”

“Yes mommy, acting is just pretend, not real.” He said proudly.

“That’s my boy." The stallion said, mussing the colt’s mane with his hoof.

“Can I play with the babies mommy?” Rusty asked.

“Babies, what babies?” Trixie asked. The light blue unicorn looked around and settled her gaze on the saddlebags lying across Luna’s back and the two foals sitting up in them, looking around at their new surroundings. Twilight was unsure.

“He’s a good boy they’ll be safe with him, I give you my word.” The colt’s father assured them.

Luna looked to Twilight who then nodded her agreement. “Lieutenant, please take the Prince and Princess into the other room with the young colt and keep an eye on them. I leave their safety in your hooves.” Luna said to one of the younger guards. After the guard and the three foals left the room, Luna turned her attention on the two other ponies. “Well then, now that the children are not in the room, would you care to explain yourselves?”

“Twilight, Your majesty, Trixie would like… I mean I want to say that I would never use this theater to slander Twilight’s name; in fact it was Twilight that brought me and Seth together.” Trixie explained. “After what happened in Ponyville all those years ago, I had a hard time getting work. I was down to my last bit and I blamed you for all of it Twilight. That’s when I met Seth. We married a few months later and the year after, little Rusty was born. Seth took me in and he and Rusty gave me purpose again. Most of all, Seth got me to see that I caused my problems not you.”

“I’m happy for you, truly, but what does any of that have to do with impersonating me?” Twilight asked.

“I accepted that my magic couldn’t compare with yours and that’s when I had an idea. Instead of bragging about feats I never preformed, I’d show other ponies the abilities of a truly amazing unicorn.” She said. “All I do is use my magic to cast an illusion on myself and the stage to allow the audience see what ever is needed for the days performance.”

“It saves a fortune on sets and costumes and ponies love it.” Seth said. “Ever since we started performing the Twilight series, our theater has been packed, they can’t get enough of you and your adventures.” Twilight blushed slightly. “If it’s okay may I ask a question?”

“I don’t see the harm.” Luna responded.

“Well, actually it’s a few questions. You called Twilight you’re fiancée, is that true? And the wings, are they magic or real?” Seth asked.

“The foals, are they yours Twilight or the Princesses?” Trixie asked.

Twilight wasn’t sure what to say. Luna nudged her. “Go ahead dear, they’ll find out soon enough.”

“Luna and I are engaged to be married, the foul are ours.” Twilight said.

“But how is that possible?” Trixie asked.

“That and the wings are a long story.” Twilight said, shaking her head.

“Well, we have two hours before the next show, I’d love to hear what happened.” Trixie said; her face lit up at the prospect of new material for their performances. The Two alicorns took a deep breath and began their story.

Trixie and Seth sat there taking in the story they were told. “Wow, uhm, that was incredible. I never knew.” The light blue unicorn said.

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to sound like I was boasting.” Twilight apologized.

“Are you kidding?” Seth asked. “This is going to give us material for at least ten more episodes in our series! That is, if it’s okay with you your majesty.”

“I don’t think you’re going to have time. It seems your performances caught the eye of someone else.” Twilight informed them and she gave Celestia’s scroll to Trixie.

The light blue unicorn unrolled the scroll and read it carefully. “What is it Trix?”

“It’s a letter from Princess Celestia, she wants me to teach illusion magic and theory at her school, she’s even offered a spot at the school for Rusty providing he passes the entrance exam.” She said, surprised.

“My sister is apparently very taken with your ability. What shall I tell her?” Luna asked.

“Yes, of course yes, if it’s okay with you Sethy.” She said.

“Go for it babe, you’ll be a great teacher and I know Rusty can pass the exam. He deserves the best education possible.” Seth told her.

“If you like, I can tutor him for the exam, every little bit helps.” Twilight offered.

Trixie was in tears. “Thank you Twilight, thank you. I don’t know how I can ever repay you.”

“I didn’t do anything Trixie. Celestia recognized your talent, your ability, and sought you out. She must also see something in Rusty to sponsor his admission to her school.” Twilight assured her.

“Yes! The Great and Powerful Trixie is finally acknowledged for her greatness!” Trixie blurted out. “I mean, thank you, it means a lot to me. Lets go tell Rusty the good news.”

===============================================================

Twilight and Luna walked out of the theater with their escort, the foal’s snuggly secured in their bags. “That was interesting but thanks to my sisters errand I fear we will be late talking with your parents.”

“It’s such a nice day, we don’t have to hurry; let’s take the scenic route.” Twilight suggested as they walked down the street.

Luna could see her mate shaking visibly. "Dear, you really need to calm down. I'm sure your parents will understand."

"I'm trying but I just don't know what to say. The last letter I sent them talked about you coming to town and staying with Rarity."

"You saw me?"

"I was stargazing on my balcony that night and even with you trying to hide, an alicorn tends to catch the eye, or at least mine." Twilight said smiling.

"Well, at least you're smiling. So which way to your parents house?"

"They live by the Observatory. On the north end of the city." Twilight explained. Luna continued walking but Twilight was rooted in place.

“Your majesty.” One of the guards called out. Luna looked back to find the love of her life glued to her spot on the sidewalk. Walking back to her mare, Luna nuzzled her softly. "I'm sure everything will be fine. And even if your parents have a problem with you marrying a princess you'll always have me and the foals." Twilight smiled and started walking with her toward the observatory that towered in the distance.

The walk to Twilight's fillyhood home didn't take as long as she hoped it would. Twilight gently knocked on the door. "No pony home, I guessed we missed them. We can go now." She said rapidly.

Inside the Sparkle home the five ponies inside heard a knock at the door. Star got up from the table. “You four relax, I’ll get it. It’s most likely Twilight.”

“No Mrs. Sparkle, I’ll get it. You spend time with Aiden and your son; I’ve kept you apart for too long already and I’d love to surprise my sister-in-law.” Cadence told her.

“Don’t blame yourself dear, you have an important job. I’m just happy to see you all when I can.” Star told her.

“I’ll try to make more of a habit of dropping by now please let me answer the door before she leaves.”

The door behind Twilight opened quickly just as she was trying to walk away. "Twilight! We were afraid you weren't going to make it." Princess Cadence said hugging her sister-in-law. “Oh my goodness, you have wings!" She said shocked.

Twilight’s parents rushed out to the front door to find Princess Luna, Twilight and, six royal guards. "Princess Luna!" Her father said surprised. Both he and Twilight's mother bowed immediately.

Twilight lowered her head to her parents. "Mom, Dad, get up please. Luna hates it when pony’s do that"

"Mr. and Mrs. Sparkle, I'm so happy to finally meet you. Cadence, I’m happy to see you again as well but maybe we should go inside. Since Twilight has been negligent in her letters to you, I'm afraid we have quite a bit to talk about."

"Of course, of course and please, call me Star. Our home is your home." She said ushering them inside.

Luna turned to the six guards that had escorted them. “I would appreciate it if you would remain outside.”

“As you wish Princess.”

The ponies walked into the living room and made themselves comfortable. "Since my wife has already introduced herself, my name is Crescent. May I take your bags Princess?"

"That's okay, I don't think they'd be to happy with you handling them just yet since they've never seen you before."

"I'm sorry, I don't understand." Crescent said. A little foal head popped up from each of the two bags.

“Oh my goodness, they’re darling.” Princess Cadence said. “Shining, get over here quick.”

Shining Armor rushed into the entry hall of the large house. “Cadence, I just put Aiden down for a nap, is everything okay?”

Twilight laughed sheepishly. "Mom, Dad, Shining, I'd like you to meet my foals."

"Foals? They're yours? When, who…" Star asked shocked.

"I gave birth five days ago to twins. Dusk for the colt and Dawn for the filly." Twilight explained.

"Who's the father and why isn't he here?" Shining Armor asked more than a little upset.

“Something I’d like to know as well.” Crescent remarked.

"I sired the foals." Luna stated bluntly. "Twilight and I are very much in love and are set to be married shortly. I would very much like to have your blessing though."

"I have to sit down." Crescent said. Looking at his daughter and the fear in her eyes, Crescent couldn't help but smile. "Twilight, before anything else happens, please calm yourself okay?"

"Dear, we're not mad just a little shocked is all.” Her mother said.

Shining Armor and Cadence flanked Twilight and the Princess. “Mom and Dad are right Twily and I’m not mad at you either.” Her brother said. Dawn and Dusk sat in their bags on the floor surrounded by their family when they began to cry.

“Dear, I think it’s feeding time.” Luna said. Twilight nodded and levitated their foals over to hear and brought them to her abdomen while Luna covered her with a blanket for a small amount of privacy.

The adult ponies in the room smiled. “Twilight, Aunt Luna; I think you should explain everything from the beginning. It would certainly answer a lot of questions." Princess Cadence suggested.

Over the next two hours, the two alicorns laid it all out on the table. They explained about Luna in Ponyville, her adventures in matchmaking, the battle with Nightmare Moon, Luna and Twilight's wings. Things were a little less descript when they explained how two mares could conceive children. They finally discussed the visit from Discord and the events surrounding her future and that of her friends. By now, the twins had finished feeding and were being held by their aunt and uncle while Twilight and Luna were fawning over Aiden, Twilight’s nephew who had his fathers white coat, his mother violet eyes and a streak of blond running through his blue mane and tail.

"You're going to have to give me a minute sweetie. This is a bit much to take at once." Crescent said.

Star punched her husband in the shoulder. "What's to understand? Our daughter has been turned into an alicorn. She's given birth to two beautiful foals and she and her friends are going to live forever so they can defend Equestria from anything that would ever threaten it. On top of all that, she's fallen in love with Princess Luna and they're getting married. Really dear sometimes you can be terribly slow." Star and Cadence walked over and hugged Twilight. "We’re so happy for you." Star said.

Cadence turned to Luna and embraced her. "We’re happy for both of you."

Twilight’s father and brother sat next to her, watching Star and Cadence hugging Luna. "You really know how to pick them Twily. I'm happy for you too." Her brother said.

Twilight hugged her father and brother tightly. "Mom, Dad, we were wondering. At the wedding it's tradition for the father to give the daughter away. We were wondering if you would be willing to give Luna away Mom?"

"Of course dear. I'd love to."

===============================================================

The carriage carrying Spike, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo slowly came to halt outside the Carousel Boutique. "I have no idea what I'm doing." Spike confessed to the two fillies. They stepped off the carriage, thanked the attendants and walked toward the shop.

"I know." Sweetie Belle said. "You stay here and hide in the bushes. When I say so, walk out into the light so mom can see you."

"Okay angel. I'll wait here." Spike said.

Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo ran inside the shop and up the stairs to the private apartment. The whole place was packed with ponies all there to support Rarity. "Sweetie Belle." Big Macintosh said. "What are you doing here? I thought you'd still be up in Canterlot."

"Well, I'm back now. And I'm sorry for the way I acted. I shouldn't have threatened you. It's just, Spike is the only daddy I've ever known and I didn't want anything to happen to him."

Macintosh put his hoof along her cheek. "It's okay Belle, I lost my father a long time ago so I can understand what your feelin’. Spike is lucky to have a daughter that loves him so much."

Sweetie Belle smiled and thanked him for his kind words. Pushing her way between ponies she nudged her way around till she found Rarity, she ran to her mother and hugged her tightly. "Sweetie Belle, your back. I missed you so much."

"I missed you too Mom. I did it; I kept my promise, I brought Daddy home." She said smiling.

"Where is he? I don't see him." Rarity said anxiously.

"He's outside. Everypony follow me!" Sweetie Belle shouted excitedly. There was a mass exodus of ponies pouring out of the shop and onto the path outside.

"Where is the little Spiky Wiky?" Pinky asked.

Sweetie Belle let out a piercing whistle. "Come on out Daddy!"

Spike cautiously stepped out of the bushes into shaft of light on the path. Rarity was awestruck by the creature standing before her. The pure golden light illuminated every scale on his body. He shined and glimmered as if he was made of the very jewels that nourished him during his sleep. For all his changes one thing stayed the same. Rarity could see that his emerald green eyes still radiated the love his heart held for her.

One by one the pony couples walked by Spike on their way home. "Sorry bout’ earlier Spike. No hard feelins’?"

"None at all Braeburn. The Princesses told me what happened. I understand how you all felt. It's my fault and it's gonna’ take a lot of work on my part to earn that trust back from all of you."

Pinky gave him a kiss on the cheek and whispered into his ear. "She needs you, don't let anything she says tell you different." Spike simply smiled and nodded.

Rainbow Dash walked up and without saying a word she punched him hard in the jaw, forcing his head to whip around violently. Spike saw it coming but didn't move; he simply sat there and took it. Turning his head back he looked at the pegasus in the eyes. "That's for lying to me!" She said angrily. "Don't ever do that again Spike. Next time just ask." She said as she flew off into the sky.

"That's one tough daughter you got there Spike. You take good care of her okay?"

"Will do Soarin."

Big Macintosh and Fluttershy walked by next. They didn't say anything they just nodded and walked on their way. Next came Applejack and Caramel.

"I just want you to know I understand why you did what you did Spike." Caramel said. "I would have done the same in your position but the way you did it is what's got everypony upset."

"You aint’ just whistlin’ Dixie. You got a whole heap of ponies mad at you Spike. You've lied to almost all your friends and worst yet you made that pony cry." She said indicating Rarity. "I suggest you do whatever it takes to put a smile back on her face or you and me are gonna' go a few rounds." Applejack gave him a sly wink as they walked off toward Sweet Apple Acres.

"Hi Mr. Spike, you sure got big. Are you and Rarity gonna’ get married like the rest of us?"

"If she'll still have me Ditzy, yes."

"I wouldn't worry about it too much old boy. I've been a lot of places, seen a lot of things and I can tell you this. Since the invention of love itself, there have been five great loves that were rated the most passionate, the most pure, the most enduring. What I see between you and Rarity leaves them all behind." Spike smiled as Ditzy and Julian slowly walked home leaning against each other, their flanks touching.

"Come one Scoots lets leave them alone." Sweetie Belle whispered in her fillyfriends ear. Quickly, the two young mares ran off toward the Cutie Mark Crusader clubhouse.

"Rarity." Spike said.

She held up her hoof in regal manor to silence him. "I'm not sure I want you talking to me right now. Do you have any idea what you put me through? What you put all our friends through?" She asked taking a step closer to him with every word. "Garnet's been crying all day, he thought you left us. I had to tell him that everything was okay that you were just visiting Twilight in Canterlot and that you'd be back in a few days. He's with Granny Smith over at the farm but that's not the point. You forced me to lie to my son. I've lied to Sweetie Belle all her life. I don't want to lie to my children anymore!" She yelled at him.

Spike wrapped his arms around Rarity. "I'm sorry."

Rarity broke down crying. "I don't want you to be sorry, I want you to understand. I hate you for how you made me feel." She said beating her hooves against his chest. "It was like Belle's father all over again. The pain, the loneliness; I don't ever want to feel that again."

Spike put a claw under her chin and raised her face to meet his. "Then marry me Rarity. Marry me and you never ever have to be alone. I'll never leave you or the children ever again. You, Sweetie Belle, and Garnet are everything to me. If I lost you I'd go insane. I was wrong for leaving without talking to you. I was wrong for doubting your feelings for me. I was wrong for a lot of things recently but most of all, I was wrong for ever leaving your side." Spike confessed through the tears pouring from his eyes. "I know you said it once, but things have changed and I need to hear you say it once more."

"Do you mean that Spike? Do you promise never to leave us again? To never hide what your thinking or feeling from me?"

"My dearest Lady Rarity you have my most solemn word of honor that I shall never leave your side and if anything should come between us I will do my whatever it takes or die trying to once again be in your radiant presence."

"Oh Spike, yes, yes I'll marry you." Rarity kissed the dragon she had come to love more than life itself.

Rarity couldn't help but let her heart scream it's joy. 'Finally, I've found my Prince Charming!'

Departure

"Good afternoon Ponyville! You're listening to the number one radio show in Equestria! I'm your host, Vinyl!"

"And I'm Octavia, welcoming you all to a special live broadcast of the Vinyl Scratch from the Ponyville Town Hall."

"What's so special about it Octy?" Vinyl asked.

"Please tell me your joking. We've only been hyping the event for the last three weeks."

"Of course I'm joking. I would never forget the day some of my best friends were married!" Vinyl Scratch laughed, falling out of her chair.

"You've already been to the free bar haven't you?" Octavia sighed.

"You bet, I mean, it’s free." The DJ said taking a sip from her drink.

Octavia shook her head and sighed. "While Vinyl picks herself off the floor, I'll explain why we're here today. Today is the Royal wedding of Princess Luna and Twilight Sparkle."

"But wait colts and fillies, that's not all. Along with the Princess, the other five Elements of Harmony along with a very dear friend of theirs, is also getting married. That's right, seven marriages one roof. I took almost a whole year to plan it, this is the biggest wedding I've ever been invited to!"

"Vinyl, this is not the biggest wedding you've ever been invited to." Octavia reminded her.

“Have we been forgotten already?” A lyrical voice asked.

“Sorry listeners, we forgot to mention that we have Shining Armor and Princess Cadence Mi Amore Cadenza joining us in the booth.” Octavia announced.

“Just Cadence will be fine, my mother is Mi Amore Cadenza. That title always makes me feel old.” The Princess said.

“No problem; I feel the same way ever time Octy uses my last name. That being said, I loved DJ’ing for your wedding but it was a little different. I wasn’t so much booked for your wedding; more like my friend Pinkie shanghaied me.”

“Well, booked or not, we still appreciated your work.” Shining Armor told her.

“Awesome. Now, I have to ask, who’s the little guy here?” Vinyl asked.

“This is our son Aiden.” Shining Armor said.

“He’s our little Prince.” Cadence told them. “Go ahead dear, say hello to everypony.”

Vinyl held a microphone down for the little colt. “Hi! My mommy’s a Princess and my daddy is strong and you’re really pretty miss unicorn lady.”

“Oh, uhm, thanks kiddo.” Vinyl said, blushing.

“He’s so darling.” Octavia gushed.

“Sorry about that.” Shining Armor said, picking up his son.

“Quite all right.” The cellist said. “I was curious though, how do you feel about your sister marrying Princess Luna?”

Shining Armor smiled. “Great minds think alike I guess. Who knew that we’d both fall for a Princess? I was shocked at how fast it was though. I knew Cadence for years, back when she foal sat Twilight but my sister only met Princess Luna a few times, years ago and only really started seeing each other about four or five years ago I think.”

“For some ponies it doesn’t take that long dear.” Cadence told him. “I know I liked you right away but I was willing to be patient and let you come around.” She said with a smile.

“That brings up another question.” Vinyl said. “What’s it like for you Princess, I mean you foal sat Twilight and now she’s marrying your aunt. Isn’t that a little creepy?”

“Oh, not at all. Princess Luna and Princess Celestia aren’t really my aunts.” She corrected. “Back when the Alicorn Royal Family took over governance from the three leaders of the pony tribes, the children of Princess Platinum, my ancestor, started referring to Luna and Celestia as their aunts and I guess it stuck because it’s always been that way.”

“So, you’re not really an alicorn?” Octavia asked.

“No, of course not. My mother is a unicorn and my father is a pegasus, mother always had a weakness for them. It was a random convergence of genes. You could say I won the genetic lottery.” Princess Cadence explained.

“I didn’t know that was possible.” Vinyl said.

“It’s very rare, but it does happen. I think I’m only the third pony to ever have it.”

“Wow, you heard it hear first listeners.” Vinyl announced.

“That makes me wonder about Prince Blueblood’s parentage. There’s must be a reason he goes around calling himself a Prince when he falls woefully short of the mark.” Octavia mused.

“Oh, there’s a very good reason he refers to himself as Prince; he’s my brother.” Cadence revealed.

“What!?” Both Vinyl and Octavia gasped in unison.

“Well, he’s my half brother actually. He came from my mother’s first marriage to a pegasus named Marcus Blueblood. I told you my mother had a weakness for pegasi.” Cadence explained.

“Sorry, I’m trying to wrap my brain around this.” Vinyl said. “You’re awesome, you’re nice and I don’t think I’ve ever heard of you saying a cross word about anypony. It’s hard for me to believe that you’re related to that, that…” The DJ pony sighed. “Octy, she’s making me be nice, I can’t say anything bad about Blueblood with her sitting right here.”

“There, there Vinyl; I’m sure she doesn’t mean it. I’m certain you’ll survive until the weddings over, then you can go back to your old disrespectful self.” Octavia said, patting her marefriend’s hoof.

Both Cadence and Shining Armour could help but chuckle. “I’m sorry Vinyl. I know the trouble you two have had with Horace but...”

“Horace!? His name is Horace!?” Vinyl shouted laughing. “Okay, I’m over it, I can be myself again.”

“My brother has some issues and I am in no way defending him, he’s stepped over the line more than once but he’s still my brother. I would consider it a personal favor if you would simply ignore him in the future should he try to instigate any further hostilities against you two.”

“Yes, of course Princess.” Octavia agreed.

“I aint’ makin’ any promises, but if he leaves us alone, I’ll do my best to ignore him.” Vinyl conceded.

“Thank you, I really do appreciate it.” Cadence said, giving them both a hug. Now, this has been fun and I hope we can come back a little later, but I want to catch up with Twilight before the ceremony.”

“Sure thing Princess, there’s always an open mic here for you.” Vinyl said.

===============================================================

Twilight walked away from the radio. "Well, Cadence and my brother are here. Did we do the right thing by inviting the Vinyl Scratch Show?"

"But they've been our friends for years. How could we not invite them?" Pinkie Pie asked. "And Vinyl's always so much fun."

"At least she has Octavia to keep the show from getting too low brow." Rarity commented. "And you’re nephew is so cute. Pinkie, please stop moving; it's hard to do alterations when you bounce around like that." Rarity said as she tried to adjust the hem on Pinkie Pie’s gown.

The fashionista was putting the last minute touches on all eight of the wedding gowns that would be used by her and her friends. Luna, Twilight, Pinkie and Rarity were using one of the offices of City Hall as a fitting room for the wedding while the stallions were utilizing an office across the hall from them. On Rarity’s insistence, a divider had been set up between the doors to the offices to ensure that there would be no peaking before the ceremony. The offices themselves were very much what anypony would assume to find in city hall but, for the sake of their temporary inhabitants, all the typical furnishings were moved to other rooms. Full-length mirrors had been set up against the oak paneled walls and the intricately embroidered rugs had been removed from the green marble floors least somepony trip while dressing and hurt themselves. Normally, Twilight would have been pouring over the multitude of books on law and government finance that were held on the offices bookshelves but after quickly looking over the titles, the lavender alicorn realized that she had already read many of them. Instead Twilight’s attention, as well as that of her bride to be, was focused on the gowns that they and their friends would soon be wearing. Like the dresses for the Grand Galloping Gala they wore every year, each gown was designed with respect to the personality of the pony that would be wearing it.

"Rarity, I don’t think I’ve ever seen more beautiful gowns in my life, you should be very proud.” Luna told her.

“Oh now, don’t go saying things like that, you’ll make me blush.” Rarity said with a small giggle.

“I mean it and I can’t thank you enough Rarity. The gowns are absolutely stunning." Luna praised her.

Rarity took a step back and admired her work. "Thank you, but it really wasn’t that hard when you consider the inspiration all of you gave me. If I've said it once, I’ve said it a thousand times; dressmaking is easy when you truly know your client. Applejack's gown was quite possibly the simplest. Like her, the gown was not given to be overly complicated. A Bateau neckline turning into fitted point sleeves for the front legs. The rest of the gown flows in layers over the hips and tail stopping just above the ground with a Ballet hemline. The moire fabric ensures that it will remain light and not get to heavy during the long ceremony. I know how much she loves that hat but I found a white stetson with gold band that absolutely makes this dress."

"Pinkies dress was a bit more difficult. The bulk of the dress is made from damask cloth with batiste for the ballooned Juliet sleeves. The collar has a high back and sides with a flat neckline. The rest of the gown stops just below the knee. Knowing how energetic you are Pinkie, it should give you more ease of mobility."

"Thanks Rarity, it's all light and puffy, just like me!" She said bouncing around the room.

"Twilight, the gowns I made for you and Luna are identical. You're such a great couple I felt it only right you wore the same gown. I decided against the headpiece for your ensembles. Princess you always have your crown and Twilight, Princess Celestia has agreed to let us use the Elements of Harmony in the ceremony so you'll be wearing the tiara. In your dresses I used a mixture of satin and moire. I used fitted point sleeves with a pouf shoulder. The neckline is reminiscent of a square or scoop style. The gown will cover your tails and the tea hemline will fall just above your ankles to show off the silver dress shoes Princess Celestia brought for you both. The dress is meant to be worn with your wings hanging down at your sides like a short gown train. When you walk, your primary feather should begin to glow and will be reflected in the cloth."

“They’re beautiful Rarity.” Twilight told her.

"Oh and look what I did for Fluttershy! I used a De'colletage neckline with straight Venise-lace sleeves. The tiered skirt with high intermission hemline will nicely show her fetlocks. The whole dress except for the sleeves is made out of a jacquard-woven fabric. I decide to include a flowing train of batiste. I can't wait to see her in it."

“Where is Fluttershy anyways?” Pinkie Pie asked. “In fact where are Rainbow, Ditzy, and Applejack?”

“The last I heard, they were still at the spa.” Rarity informed them. “It seams the Aloe sisters are having problems getting all the knots and split ends out of Rainbow Dash and Applejacks hair. Fluttershy and Ditzy are having there feathers oiled with their mothers. I have no idea what that means but I’m sure they know what they’re doing.”

“Well, I hope they don’t take too long, the rest of the parents are starting to arrive.” Clyde said as he walked into the room, closely followed by a light gray Inkie and Blinkie, a mare whose coat was colored a deep charcoal blue. Clyde’s silver mane and tale played of his tan coat making him look old but was more of a middle-aged stallion. Pinkie practically tackled her father and sisters.

"Either way, when they finally get made presentable they’re going to look fabulous. Look what I did for Rainbow Dash; this was a real challenge. With her ruff and tumble attitude I decided to go with a durable gabardine fabric for the main body of the gown with a lacy high collar neckline that will come half way up her neck. For the sleeves I decided on cap sleeves of the same material. The skirt will be short to show off her magnificent rainbow tail. I still can’t believe I was actually able to convince both Rainbow Dash and Applejack to go to the spa. So while Applejack will have the hat, Rainbow Dash’s mane will be expertly styled. The Aloe sisters can work miracles and I don't want to cover up her colors. They'll contrast with the white dress nicely."

"What about Ditzy's dress? You don't know her they way you know the rest of us." Twilight asked. "How did you make hers?"

"To be honest it wasn't easy. I had to talk to quite a few ponies to get an idea. I spoke with Lyra and Bonbon since they're her closest friends. I even got her parents to come all the way from Cloudsdale to talk to me. Such a nice couple, I can see why Ditzy turned out as good natured as she is." Rarity walked to a curtain and pulled it back. This is what I came up with, what do you think, and please, be honest."

"It's gorgeous Rarity." Luna said sincerely. "I can't imagine Ditzy not loving it."

"I couldn't think of where to start so I began with the skirt. I use a single layer of silk faced satin on the bottom, then staggered the next two layers of dandelion yellow velvet and the top layer as well as the rest of the dress was made of charmeuse. The neckline is a very open Bateau cut with the shoulders exposed. The sleeves are a variant of the Gauntlet style. They leave the shoulders exposed but they connect to the rest of the dress and the sides and chest."

Rarity was cut off once again when she heard a knock at the door. Clyde walked to the door and stood there in silence when the head of an emerald green dragoness poked into the room. “Hello, I’m looking for Twilight, is she in here?” She asked.

“Uhm, One moment please.” He said shakily. Clyde walked away from the door and tapped Twilight on the shoulder. “Excuse me but there’s a dragon at the door, she said she’s looking for you.”

“She? Oh, that must be Emerald; excuse me please.” Twilight ran over to the door, opening it wide. “Emerald, it’s been so long, how have you been?” She asked. Hugging the dragon.

“Oh, I’ve been doing fine but look at you, I go away for a few years and here you are getting married. All my friends here in Ponyville are tying the knot, I feel so left out.

“I’m sure you’ll find some nice drake to settle down with, you’re still young.” Twilight reassured her.

“From your lips to his ears.” She said with a chuckle. “Do you know where Spike is, I wanted to wish him well before the ceremony.”

“Yes, of course; he’s across the hall with the other grooms.” Twilight hesitated for a moment. “Have you spoken or written to your brother since your last visit?”

“Now that you mention it, he wrote to me two weeks ago and said he had something important to tell me. You wouldn’t happen to know what that is would you?”

Twilight smiled. “I think I’ll let him tell you, I’ll just stay here out of the line of fire.”

Sweetie Belle walked past the dragoness into the room. “Hi aunt Emerald, daddy’s next door if you want to say hi.”

“Ooookay. And who would your ‘daddy’ be?” She asked the smiling unicorn.

“Spike of course… He didn’t tell you did he?” She asked. “Mom, daddy’s keeping secrets again!” Sweetie Belle shouted into the room.

Rarity left off fitting Pinkie into her dress and walked over to the door. “What has that dragon done now?” She asked.

“He didn’t tell aunt Emerald about, you know, me being your daughter instead of your sister.”

“Really?” The dragonesses asked.

“Yes,” Rarity confirmed. “It’s a long story and I think Spike is the one who should explain it as I’m sure there’s much he hasn’t told you.”

“I see; well then I’m happy to know that I have such a pretty mare as a niece.” She said smiling down at Sweetie Belle. Emerald left the room and headed for the other side of Town Hall.

Rarity started walking back to the dressing table to help Pinkie when the rest of the brides and their mothers arrived. Applejack was messing with her hair. “It’s weird but it just don’t feel natural and all without my hair being tied back.” She complained,

“How do you think I feel?” Rainbow Dash asked. “ I hate it when ponies mess with my hair.”

“Now dear, I think you look beautiful.” Honeyhue, Rainbow Dash’s mother, told her. “This is your special day, you should look your best.” Honeyhue was very much like her daughter in appearance, her rainbow mane was expertly styled and shown brightly against her tan coat.

Sweetie Belle tapped her mother’s shoulder. "Sorry Mom, we couldn't find Apple Bloom anywhere." She turned her head and noticed Princess Luna in the room. Throwing a salute she came to attention. "Your majesty. Captain Apple Bloom is nowhere to be found. I'm sorry to report we may have to continue without her."

"Thank you Belle. I have an idea where she might be. I'll go and see what's keeping her." Luna walked out the changing room and flew over to the announcing stand where Vinyl and Octavia were talking during a musical break.

"Princess, how are you today? Shouldn't you be getting ready?" Octavia asked her.

"I'm fine Octavia, thank you for asking. Where did my soon to be in-laws get off to?” She asked.

“Oh, they said they were going to get ready.” Vinyl told her.

“I see. It seems that one of my crusaders is missing; I’m on my way to locate her but the wedding may start a little late so if you can, drag things out a bit okay?"

"Trust me Princess, if there's one thing Octy can do, it's drag things out." Vinyl said smiling. The Princess smiled and flew out one of the skylights and off towards Sweet Apple Acres.

===============================================================

Emerald knocked on the door to the groom’s dressing room none too gently. “Spike, this is your sister, if you do not open up this door right now, I’ll open it for you.”

Caramel answered the door, dressed in a tuxedo with a golden yellow bowtie. “You must be Emerald.”

“If I must, then I must.” She said with a smirk. “Is my brother in there, I need to talk to him.”

“Yeah, I think he’s in the back. It’s weird, you’d think it would be hard to loose a guy that big.” Caramel mused.

“I don’t understand, Spike’s just a child, he’s not all that big.” She said.

“Oh, oh uhm; I guess you don’t know then. Well, let me escort you to the back room. I’m sure Spike will be happy to see you.” Carmel said, smiling. As the moved to the larger changing room Carmel got the attention of the other stallions. “Hey guys, I’d like you all to meet Emerald, this is Spike’s older sister.”

“Howdy Ma’am, nice to meet you.” Braeburn said, before going back to brushing out his mane.

“Indeed, a pleasure to see you again.” Julian told her.

“It’s good to see you too sir. I assume you finally got around to talking to that gray filly about how you feel.” She surmised.

“Indeed, but how did you know?”

“She told me back when I was hauling those gems to the rock farm. She knew you wanted to talk to her about something very important. She told me that she was very curious but was willing to wait until you were ready to tell her. From what I can see, it looks like it turned out for the best, congratulations, to all of you. I’m very happy for you all.

“Thanks Emerald. Don’t mind the rest of the guys, we’re all kind of nervous; none of us have done anything this important before.” Saorin explained.

“That’s completely understandable, marriage is a big step for anyone, even dragons. Speaking of which, I really need to talk to Spike before the ceremony.”

“Spike’s in the other room talkin’ to himself like he’s a couple apples short of a bushel.” Macintosh told her. “You can get in through that door.” He said, pointing to the door against the far wall.

“Thank you.” The dragoness walked through the room and knocked on the door.

There was a crash of metal and the uneasy voice of a mature drake. “Who is it?

“My name’s Emerald, is my brother Spike in there?”

The door opened suddenly and the head of a purple drake emerged. “Emmy?!”

“Oh my goodness; Spike, is that you?!” She said, shocked at her little brother’s appearance. “Spike what happened to you, you look as old I am. How did you go from nineteen to sixty so quickly, or rather why would you?”

Spike was unsure what to say but he knew he couldn’t lie to his own sister. “Come on in Emmy and I’ll try to explain.”

The green dragoness walked into the small room and closed the door behind her. The office the stallions were utilizing as a dressing room was almost exactly like the room the mares were using except this one had a sitting room attached. Spike lounged on a plush couch while Emerald rested on an identical couch. “Okay Spike, I know this is a big day for you but what happened? How did you grow up so fast?”

Spike sighed and began telling his sister everything that had happened since she left Ponyville. He told her about Luna and everything she’d been doing since arriving in town. He told her about Nightmare Moon, which took a little more doing since the dragoness had never heard of her before. The drake told his sister everything that had happened from Twilight giving birth to twins to Discords gift of immortality. During the story, Emerald decided to help her brother dress for the wedding. “Are you disappointed?” He asked her.

“I’m only disappointed that you lied to your friends and that you waited so long before telling me about all this.” She said, buckling on his right spaulder. “I’m your sister too Spike, I think I have a right to know when a member of my family is having problems. I wish you felt comfortable enough to talk to me about these things.”

“That’s almost exactly what Twilight told me. I’m sorry Emmy, you’re right; I should have written to you and explained everything, I just didn’t know what to say, I never know what to say. I was afraid of what Garnet would think of me when he grew up and what ponies would say about Rarity, being with someone who would always be a child. I was scared.” Spike confessed.

Emerald hugged her bother tightly. “I understand Spike but please, promise me that you’ll think about me the next time you have a problem.” She said. The dragoness stepped back to admire her brother in full plate armor. “I must say though, Rarity is certainly getting her knight in shining armor.”

“Thanks Emmy.”

“Now, where is my nephew? I wanted to say hi before the start of the ceremony.” Emerald asked.

“I think he’s in the main hall with Princess Celestia; she volunteered to watch the foals before the wedding.” Spike told her, sheathing his sword in the scabbard that hung from his left side.

===============================================================

Soaring over the apple orchard, Luna turned north as she passed the home of the Apple family. In the distance, just passed the north edge of the apple orchard, the Princess saw a placid pond whose west bank was covered in water lilies and shaded by several willow trees. Luna had visited their only once before when Macintosh, Applejack and Apple Bloom buried their grandmother. During the funeral, Applejack told her that whenever a member of the Apple family had a problem, this pond was always a favorite sanctuary.

The midnight blue alicorn landed gracefully at the ponds bank. Taking a quick drink, she began to look around for any sign of her missing captain. It slowly dawned on her that Apple Bloom was not there. On the west side of the pond, beneath one of the large spreading willows was the final resting place of Granny Smith next to the grave of her husband, and that of her daughter and son-in-law. All around the graves were carefully placed apple blossoms, covering the earth in front of the headstones. The alicorn instinctively knew who it was that decorated the gravesite. Sitting down before Granny Smiths headstone, Princess Luna bowed her head in respect to the recently deceased matriarch. “Mrs. Apple, you were always there for your family and when I was having problems with Twilight, what you said helped me more than you could ever know. Now I fear that your youngest granddaughter may be in some trouble. I don’t know what it is just yet but I could really use you’re advice right now.”

A stiff wind blew through the apple orchard. As the strong breeze washed over Luna and the small family cemetery, the apple blossoms decorating the graves were caught and lifted into the air. Luna watched as the blossoms spun and played across the surface of the water then whisked off to the southeast, back into the orchard. 'The clubhouse.' She thought to herself. ‘Thank you, I’ll do whatever I can for her.’

Luna took off into the air once again, flying quickly through the apple trees, dodging trunks on her way to the Cutie Mark Crusader Clubhouse. The Princess came to an abrupt halt as the clubhouse came into view. She slowly walked up the stairs and gently knocked on the door. The door creaked open revealing a room that had been ransacked. Furniture, posters, and pillows were all destroyed. A poster with a picture of all the crusaders was ruined. The portion with Apple Bloom had been torn out. In one corner, it appeared that somepony had attempted to set the clubhouse on fire but only a small portion of the wood had been charred, telling her that this pony thought twice about it. On a barn nail in the far wall was a note along with Apple Bloom's Cutie Mark Crusader bandana, her red hair ribbon, and the necklace Luna had given her. Luna carefully took down the letter and read it quietly to herself.

"Princess Luna. I imagine you are the one reading this. If anypony would come after me I assumed you would be the first. I'm leaving. I've spoke with Zecora and she has agreed to let me live in a shack deep in the Everfree Forest that she uses for extra storage for all her herbs and other potion ingredients. It’s only for a little while and I've asked her not to tell any of you where it is, she assures me that she will not.

I'm sorry to leave like this but I honestly can't look at any of you anymore without feeling some degree of hatred for all of you. Every time I see you or any of the others I start feeling jealous and bitter. I hate myself for feeling this way but I just can't help it anymore. I even hate my dearest friends. They've found love and their cutie marks while I remain a nothing.

I lost Granny Smith; the same way I lost my parents. Now I’ve lost my brother and sister to other ponies the same way I lost my friends. I feel like I’m adrift on a river by myself while all around me, the banks are filled with ponies happily living their lives without a second thought to the pony they’ve left behind. I’ve tried to not let it bother me for so long but I can’t ignore it anymore. With that being said; give my bandana to the girls. If they find a young colt of filly that has the same problem we had, tell them to give it to that little one. I’d like you to give my ribbon to Applejack. Our father gave it to me and if she ever has a little filly of her own, I want it to go to her. As for the necklace that you gave me; I am hereby resigning my commission as Captain of your personal guard. I'm sure you can find someone better suited for it than I.

If you have ever had any respect for me, please do not tell the others until after the wedding. This is their day and I don't want my actions to ruin what should be the best day of their lives. Don’t bother to look for me; I don’t plan to stay in the forest too long. I want to travel and see what Equestria has to offer. I couldn’t get my cutie mark here so maybe out there, somewhere, I can find what I’m supposed to do with my life. I will return one day, when I've worked though my problems. This is something I need to do on my own. In the past few years I've gotten used to being alone and I see no need to change that now.

Goodbye Princess Luna. I hope your life with Twilight and your children is happier than mine.

Apple Bloom
Former Captain
Former Friend
Former Sister
Former…"

Luna let the letter fall from her hooves. "Apple Bloom, why didn't you come talk to me?" She asked, crying to herself.

When I look At You

The thought of her most faithful Crusader lost and alone in the world, weighed heavily on the alicorn. The Princess was heartbroken but fought the urge to fly directly to the forest to fetch the wayward pony. ‘No, I must trust her to do the right thing. If she feels this is what she must do then so be it.’ She thought to herself as she flew back towards town. ‘I hope you find what you’re like for out there Apple Bloom.’ Luna flew to the library and stashed the letter, the bandana, and the hair ribbon in a place she was sure Twilight would not find them. The Princess wore her captain’s necklace around her neck. Apple Bloom may not be there but at least a little piece of her would.

Flying back to the town hall she entered quietly and returned to the dressing room to find her mate talking with her brother and Princess Cadence. "Any luck finding Apple Bloom?" Twilight asked her.

"Yes, but she will not be joining us today, something else came up that has forced her to miss being here."

"What do you mean she won't be here? She was supposed to be part of your procession." Rarity complained.

"Please, just trust me. If it wasn't important, I'm sure she'd be here." Luna said.

"I do trust you Princess and while I’d much rather have all three of the girls in your procession, I suppose two will have to do. If you’ll excuse me, I need to tell the announcers that there will be a small change. Please, don't go anywhere I'll be right back." Rarity said.

As the white unicorn left the room, Twilight turned to her future wife. "Is everything okay dear?”

“You sound a little troubled Princess, is there anything we can do to help?" Shining Armor asked.

"I'm fine, really." She assured them.

"Luna, I know when you're hiding something. Please tell me what's bothering you." Twilight pleaded.

"Ask me tomorrow Twilight, please? I promise, tomorrow I'll tell you everything. I want today to be happy for us and for everypony. Sadness can wait one day." Luna said, silently happy the Applejack was not there at the moment.

"Okay Luna." She said, kissing her lover.

“It looks like you have everything in hoof here.” Cadence said. “Shining and I are going out to prepare for the procession.” Before leaving, Cadence looked back and smiled at the princess. “There’s something about these Sparkles isn’t there?”

Luna hugged Twilight tenderly. “There certainly is.”

Cadence gasped at the bright aura that burned between the two mares. ‘Why didn’t I recognize it earlier?’ She thought to herself. ‘I think I understand now, honest to goodness soul mates! In the corner of the room, the radio could be heard.

===============================================================

"Thank you Rarity for that update.” Octavia said. “It seems this wedding isn’t off to the best start. There’s been one no-show and I’ve reports that there’s a green dragon wandering around the premises.”

“Don’t worry Octy, I’ll protect you!” Vinyl announced heroically. “Oh look, the families have started to arrive, let's see who it is." Vinyl said.

"First up is Star and Crescent Sparkle." Octavia announced. "Followed closely by Princess Cadence, Shining Armor, and their little colt Aiden.”

“Next are Posey and Sunburst.” Vinyl announced. “If I'm correct these are Fluttershy's parents. I feel sorry for these guys. From what I've heard they had a rocky start because of some old pegasus prejudice about being with earth ponies. Posey was gutsy for eventually going back to her husband regardless of what those old fogies said in Cloudsdale."

"Like mother like daughter I suppose." Octavia said. "Coming down the isle now is Mr. and Miss. Hooves. I believe these are Ditzy's parents. Apparently they don't have a problem with their daughter marrying an earth pony."

"Yeah, and what a stud he is too, and that accent. OW!" Octavia slugged her.

"My flank is the only one you should be looking at."

"You know you don't have to worry about that Octy."

"Here comes Rainbow Dash's mother Honey Hue. She's so stunning." Octavia remarked.

"Hey, now who's looking at some other ponies flank?"

"I was looking, you were drooling." She defended herself.

"Yah yah, who's this coming down the isles now, and why does he have a pick axe with him?"

"You know him. That's Clyde Pie, Pinkies father." Octavia reprimanded her.

"Well of course it is dear but why is he carrying a pick axe?"

"Given how old fashioned Clyde is, it’s probably to make sure Breaburn doesn't run off." Octavia and Vinyl both laughed.

"Speaking of which, we haven't seen Braeburn's parents or really any of the groom’s families; what's up with that?" Vinyl asked.

"I think I can answer your question." Celestia said as she landed next the table they were broadcasting from.

"Princess Celestia. It's good to see you again after all these years."

"It's good to see you too Vinyl. As to why the grooms' parents aren't here; the Apple family lost both their parents in a tragic farm accident three years after Apple Bloom was born and as you know, their Grandmother passed earlier this year. Soarin's father passed away two years ago followed by his mother a month later. Apparently they both were very old."

"I remember that." Octavia said. "Spitfire joined us on the show and we did a salute to the Wonderbolts in his honor."

"And the three of you did a wonderful job of it.” The Princess remarked. “Julian's parents are long past as well unfortunately. Braeburn's mother and father could not make it today due to ongoing negotiations with the Buffalo heard in Appaloosa. Regrettably nopony knows who Caramel's parents are. I’ve exhausted all my influence but I haven’t been able to find anything. You see, he was raised in a group home until he came to Ponyville to work on the Apple family farm and unfortunately, no pony knows who his parents are. Spike’s parents are unfortunately passed but he does have a sister. If I’m not mistaken, she should be entering the hall now."

Octavia and Vinyl turned back to the entryway to see a green dragoness enter the hall. “Wow, Spike’s sister is almost exactly like him except her color’s are inverted. She has green scales and purple spines going down her back. I wonder if she’s seen Spike yet?” Vinyl wondered.

"I'm sorry I just noticed this but you have two foals in saddle bags on your back." Octavia noted. "Are you foal sitting today?"

"Not as such. I’d like to introduce you to my niece, Princess Dawn and my nephew, Prince Dusk. They belong to Twilight and Princess Luna. I'm just holding on to them during the ceremony. Luna insists on taking them back during the reception."

"They’re so cute!” Vinyl cooed. “Uh, I mean… Wait, how do two mares have kids?" Vinyl asked perplexed. She looked at Octavia with a hopeful look in her eyes. Octavia shared a similar wish.

Celestia could see the look shared between the two musical mares. "I suggest you ask Twilight about that in a few days. But for now, I have a wedding to conduct and Octavia I believe your ensemble is warming up and waiting for you."

"Oh goodness, you're right. Thank you Princess; for everything." Octavia galloped over to the orchestra pit to warm up with her ensemble.

"Well it looks like were ready to go in a few minutes and I'm all by myself, again."

===============================================================

Back in the dressing room the girls had dressed in their gowns and were chatting with their parents. "Where are they?' Rarity asked concerned. "Ditzy, you did deliver the invitation right?"

"Yup, I delivered every one of them myself. But um…"

"What is it dear?" Rarity asked.

"Promise you won’t be mad at me?" She asked.

"I promise, now what is it?"

Ditzy walked over to her bags and pulled out the royal invitation. "When I delivered the letter, the lady was really angry. She wrote a message on it and gave it back. I'm sorry Rarity."

The white unicorn took the letter and read the note on it. "Return to sender."

"I can't believe she'd turn down a royal invitation." Twilight said.

Rarity sat down hard and began to cry. Applejack walked up and hugged her tightly. "It's okay Rarity. Some Ponies just don't know how good they got it. Remember you've always got us."

Star stroked her mane lightly, careful no to muss her hair. "Any mother would be proud to have you as a daughter Rarity. I should know; I am one. Don't dwell on the negative. This day is for you, it's for all you girls. Be happy and enjoy it."

"Thank you Mrs. Sparkle. That means a lot." Rarity told her.

Pinkie was whispering in her father's ear. He smiled and walked over to Rarity. "I know it's not the same but if it's alright with you dear, I'd be happy to walk both you and Pinkie down the isle."

"Thank you sir, I think I'd like that." In the background the wedding march had begun. "I guess we better get situated. Rainbow, you're first then Fluttershy, Twilight, Pinkie and myself, Ditzy, Applejack and finally Princess Luna will be escorted down the isle by Star and you're adorable little guards there."

===============================================================

"Okay, I'm back and we're about to get this wedding underway. While Octy is playing the wedding march I have Mrs. Rosy Dawn Hooves here with me at the table. How are you doing today?"

"I'd doing absolutely fabulous today. Thank you."

"So, excited for Ditzy?" Vinyl asked.

"Oh yes; I just left the brides and the other parents in the dressing room and we’re all happy for our girls. To be honest, I was afraid my little girl wouldn't find anypony but Julian is an absolute gentalstallion. I hear he actually got all the ponies in Ponyville to stop calling her names and teasing her. They didn't realize how much it hurt her feelings."

"Wow. That's pretty cool. Oh, they're starting. The grooms are walking in now. Nice, each of the grooms is wearing a top hat and collar. The hatbands as well as their bow ties are each colored to match the mane of their brides. That was a nice touch." Vinyl commented. "Big Macintosh and Caramel, have positioned themselves to the left of the isle while Braeburn, Julian and Soarin have turned to the right. Don't worry folks, there are going to be lots of pictures in the paper in the morning, I've seen to that."

"There seems to be a large gap next to Caramel. Where is Rarity's intended?" Rosy asked.

The distinct sound of chain mail could be heard in the background. "I think we're going to find out."

Spike slowly walked into view to the gasp of the entire crowd. "Oh my goodness." Rosy gasped.

"You didn't know she was marrying a dragon?"

"Well yes, Ditzy told me the whole story, it was very romantic but I thought that's all it was, a story."

"That's not a problem is it?" Vinyl asked.

"No, not at all. Gusty and I believe that love knows no shape. The heart loves what the heart loves."

"Well said, and listeners you just have to see the pictures of Spike tomorrow. Rarity has herself a knight in shining armor, literally. Spike is decked out head to claw in shining silver plate armor with a chain mail coif beneath. Along his right side, a broad sword hangs from a woven belt. He went all out on this suit."

"His shoulder plates are emblazoned with a symbol I've never seen before. The left half is the mark of Princess Celestia's sun but the right is Princess Luna's moon. Don't get me wrong; it looks great against the silver background. I wonder who thought it up?" Rosy wondered aloud.

"I have no idea but I’m sure we’ll find out soon enough. It sounds like the brides are entering now." Vinyl announced. "Lets see who's first. Rainbow Dash is walking accompanied by her mother Honey Hue."

"Rainbow is stunning, that dress is so cute I especially like the lace bit around her neck."

"I agree. I'm actually surprise she let someone style her mane. Let's see, next we have Fluttershy with her father Sunburst. I wonder what her mother said when she found out she fell for an earth pony too?"

"Like mother like daughter. Mine too. Fluttershy is so adorable. The train behind her makes it look like she's walking on clouds." Rosy said. "Is that Twilight Sparkle?"

"You bet it is, being walked down the isle by her father Crescent. I know people say that a bride glows but Twilight is actually glowing. The soft light from her unfurled wings hanging by her side is reflecting off her dress and making her glow. Wow Rarity, you outdid yourself. Wait, is that? Yes, She's wearing the Element of Magic. They're all wearing the Elements. Cool!"

"She already looks like a Princess." Rosy Dawn commented.

"I've just been hoofed a message. It seems that next we have Clyde Pie walking both Pinkie and Rarity down the isle since Rarity's snooty parents can't put aside they're social issues to be here for their daughter."

"Yes, Clyde is certainly a true gentlestallion. Wait, Is that a pick axe he has?"

"I know! What's up with that?"

"It looks like Rarity's gone the whole princess wedding route. The dress is very form fitting with a flowing skirt and pouf shoulders. It seems she's forgotten the conical hat and went with a simple gold tiara." Rose commented.

"And look at Pinkie. That dress is like a cross between a wedding dress and a cocktail dress. You go Pinks!" Vinyl shouted. Pinkie turned around and waved to her friend.

"Oh my baby girl is next!

"And here she comes accompanied by her father Gusty. Wow, look at that gown. I love how Rarity incorporated the dandelion color of Ditzy's eyes into the dress. Simply stunning." Vinyl notice Rosy softly crying next to her. "Are you okay Rosy?"

"Yes, I'm fine. I'm just so happy for my baby." She said, wiping her eyes.

"I just noticed, where did Big Macintosh go? He was up front a minute ago." Vinyl asked.

"There he is. He's walking his sister Applejack down the isle. Awwww that's so sweet." Rosy said.

"It looks like Aj has put away her signature hat for a bright white stetson with a gold band. The dress is a simple flowing gown that seems to float around Applejack instead of lying on her back. The simplicity of the dress is accented by her golden mane, which is normally tied up in a ponytail but right now it's flowing freely to her right side." Vinyl said.

"Vinyl, here she comes; here comes the Princess!"

"The hall has gone quiet folks, as we await the entrance of Princess Luna. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo, the Princess’ two junior guards, are leading the procession. Both are dressed in simple dark blue homespun tunics with a thick woven cotton belt around their waists. On each of their heads is a cornet of silver with a purple amethyst gem set in the middle. Behind them is the Princess being escorted by Star Sparkle, Twilight's mother."

"It looks like the Princess is wearing the same gown as Twilight. She's even keeping her wings down to her sides letting her glowing feathers reflect of the dress. Simply stunning." Rosy commented. The procession ended when Luna took her place next to Twilight in the center isle.

Octavia left the orchestra pit and galloped back to the announcer's booth. "Thank you for filling in for me Mrs. Hooves."

"You're welcome, I'll leave you two to finish up. I'm going down to sit with my husband." The two musical mares waved goodbye as she trotted off.

"She was nice." Vinyl said.

===============================================================

Princess Celestia walked up to a central podium directly in front of Twilight and Luna. "Citizens of Ponyville, honored guests; we are gathered her today to witness the marriage of a great number of ponies. Before we begin, if there are any here that would object to these unions I request that they speak now or forever hold their peace."

"They better not if they know what's good for’em!" Vinyl yelled out while Octavia sat there mortified. Celestia smiled at the outburst while the brides and grooms blushed.

"No pony?" She asked. The silence persisted. "No pony at all, really? Darn, I haven't banished anypony to the moon in such a long time." The Town Hall erupted in laughter. "Good. This is not a time to be somber; this is a day of celebration. My dear sister and her friends are being married. Now before we officially start, I'm to understand that some of you have written your own vows. Braeburn, I believe you're first."

The amber pony gulped. "Pinkie, you've made me the luckiest stallion in all of Equestria. I love you more than anything and as long as we both live I'll do whatever I can to make you feel as happy as you make me."

"Oh Braesy waisy. I hope I can make you really really happy so you can make me really really happy and we can make each other happy forever." Pinkie pulled Braeburn's stetson hat out from some hidden spot and plopped it on her head. "You're still not getting your hat back."

Braeburn laughed. "You can keep the hat but would you mind asking your father to stop menacing me with his pick axe?"

"I'm just here to make sure you go through with it. That goes for the rest of you boys too." There was a soft laughter in the town hall.

"Oh Daddy."

"Nicely put you two. Julian, I think you're next." Celestia said.

"Ditzy, what can I say but thank you? When I came here I knew absolutely nothing but you helped me you showed me how things work despite, how did you put it, being a really strange pony. To me, you are the smartest, prettiest mare I've ever known. I love you with all my heart and I always will."

"Julian. You gave up everything for me. You're job, your life outside of Equestria. You've made me the happiest pony in the whole wide world. I love you so much!"

"Very nice. Spike?"

"Dearest Rarity. What can I say that I haven't said a hundred times before? I love you, I love Sweetie Belle and I love our son Garnet. I may not be the pony of your dreams but I promise I will always be there for you and our family, no matter what."

"Spike, you risked your life on more than one occasion so that we could be together. I love you and I'm sorry it took me so long to realize that. You've given me a son and you've given Sweetie Belle a real father. My brave and gallant knight; while I won't always be in distress I promise that I will always be your damsel."

"That was very touching. Well done." Celestia said, a flash of and idea in her eyes. "Twilight? The stage is yours."

"Princess Luna. I have always loved and admired the beautiful nights you created, but when I look into your eyes; the stars in the sky seem dim by comparison. You are the bright shining moon that lights my night and if I can do nothing else, I want to spend my life loving you."

"Twilight Sparkle. You've done so much for me. You and your friends freed me from Nightmare Moon. You helped me fit in after being gone for a thousand years. When it seemed Nightmare Moon might return you risked you're life again to protect me. You've given us two beautiful children. Twilight I may have been alive for over a thousand years but I never truly lived until I met you. Thank you, I love you."

"That was beautiful sister, but if there's nopony else lets get started." Garnet and Dinky slowly trotted up the mane isle pulling two small wagons behind them. Each of the wagons contained pillows of red satin, and bedded on that satin were twelve bracelets of gold and two of silver. The two young ponies pulled the wagons up to the front podium and stopped at the hooves of Princess Celestia. The Ruler of Equestria addressed the ponies in front of her. "Stallions, do you take your mare to have and to hold? Do you promise to honor and obey her, in sickness and in health for rich or for poor for however long you both shall live?"

Every Stallion and Spike responded in unison. "I do."

"Mares, do you take your stallion to have and to hold? Do you promise to honor and obey him, in sickness and health for rich or for poor for however long you both shall live?"

"I do." They also responded in unison.

"Twilight? Luna?" Celestia asked.

"I do." They responded together.

The Princess levitated the bracelets from the wagon at her hooves. “Please accept these bands as a gift from me, a wedding present.” The twelve gold bracelets snapped closed over the right front hooves of each of the ponies except for Twilight and Luna who received bands of silver. Each one was emblazoned with the cutie mark of their spouse with the exception of Rarity; her bracelet had the image of a purple and green dragon encircling the band. Inky and Blinky were beaming at this moment; so proud that Princess Celestia herself had commissioned the jewelry they made for the newlyweds.

"By the power vested in me by; well me, I pronounce you husband, wife and wife! You may kiss your bride!" The crowd of guests, especially two loud guests in the announcer booth, cheered the newlyweds with thunderous applause and a standing ovation. "Wait now, we're not done just yet." Aiden walked in with a sparkling silver crown upon a red silk pillow riding on his back. Celestia floated the crown to Twilight's head and switched it with the Element of magic. "There, I think that's better, you look like a proper Princess of Equestria now.” She told her former student. “Spike, may I borrow that for a moment?"

"Of course your majesty." Spike drew the sword from his side and offered it to Princes Celestia handle first.

"For a longest time any disturbance that troubled our land was dealt with but the local authorities but I fear that in the coming years something more will be needed. So I will do something I have not done in over a many, many years. Stallions, mares, Spike. Please kneel." The newlyweds knelt before the Princess. Taping the sword to the shoulders of each pony she called them by name. "Arise Sir Macintosh, Lady Fluttershy, Sir Caramel, Lady Applejack, Sir Spike, Lady Rarity, Princess Twilight, Princess Luna, Sir Braeburn, Lady Pinkie, Sir Julian, Lady Ditzy Doo, Sir Soarin, and Lady Rainbow Dash. I pronounce you all knights of the realm, protectors of Equestria." Again the guest enthusiastically cheered the new couples.

Princess Luna walked up to the podium and addressed those in attendance. “For many, many years, the emblem of our land reflected which of us sat on the throne. When I informed my sister of my impending marriage, she suggested a change.” Luna held up her right front hoof to the rafters where guards were waiting to unfurl new banners to cover the old solar standard. Each of the new banners was exactly like the emblem Spike wore on his armor. “From this day forth, the rule of our land shall not be governed by either Celestia or myself but together, as one.” The ponies cheered so loud, the guards in the rafters could hear the thunderous applause.

Twilight was next to address the ponies. "On behalf of the Princesses, myself, and all our friends; I want to thank you all for coming and sharing this special day with us. The reception will begin outside in the town square shortly." Twilight announced.

"Party!" Pinkie, Vinyl and Princes Celestia shouted together.

===============================================================

The entirety of the Ponyville town center had been decorated for the event. The bar and drink stand was set up by the Founders Fountain. A bandstand was erected outside the porch of the Town Hall. During the ceremony all of the instruments used by Octavia's ensemble were moved outside. A turntable and speakers were set up next to the bandstand for Vinyl's use as well. Tables and chairs had been arranged around the Town Hall to create a large dancing circle. So many flowers, garlands, and vibrant bouquets were strung around the square it had actually cleared out the three flower shops belonging to Rose, Lilly, and Daisy. The arrangement of the colorful flowers gave the town square the appearance of a single large garden.

"That's all we have tonight listeners. Until tomorrow, this is Vinyl…”

"And this is Octavia wishing you all a good night. And remember the broadcast will repeat in half an hour so if you missed anything you can listen again."

Sitting at a large table setup across from the bandstand, the newlyweds were enjoying themselves. The brides had changed out of their dresses for fear they might muss them but quickly left the dressing room to join in the festivities. Luna had taken the children back from Celestia so she could eat her meal in peace. Dinner passed pleasant enough; from time to time ponies would walk by the table and offer their congratulations. Princess Celestia could see the polite but bored faces around the reception and decided to take action. Slowly walking over to the bandstand she had a whispered conversation with Vinyl Scratch then walked back toward the table.

A microphone briefly screeched. Vinyl Scratch was in her element. "Wow there are some serious bored faces out there. Lets get those hooves moving and, start this party right!"

She spun here records and amped up the volume as the music started.

Vinyl hopped onto the dance floor pulling Octavia with her. Soon the crowed started to grow. Pinkie, Applejack, even Celestia got out on the dance floor. The song ended and Vinyl found two fillies at her turntables. "I suppose you want to do it now?"

"If you're not to tired, you were awesome out there!" Scootaloo said.

"Yeah, I am pretty awesome. No, I'm not too tired. A nice slow song will relax me. He Octy you ready for the special request?"

"Of course, just let me get thing prepared with the others." Octavia turned to her group and made sure they had the music and understood she wanted to play the music half a beat slower than the sheet music called for. "We're ready over here when you are."

"Okay kids I'll announce us, you two stand in front of the turntables with the microphone. You remember when to come in?"

"Yes, thanks again Mrs. Vinyl." Sweetie Belle said.

"No problem kiddo." Pulling a guitar case out from behind the turntable, Vinyl walked up the bandstand and sat on a chair while she adjusted the microphone. Octavia moved her double bass next to the unicorn in preparation to play. Opening the case, Vinyl pulled out a shinning black and brown John Neigher stratocaster electric guitar. "Okay everypony. We've had a special request tonight for a special song sung by Belle and Scoot for the newlyweds."

The music started with Vinyl strumming the guitar when Octavia and the rest of the group slowly came in. At the appropriate beat, the girls began singing. "It's been a long road, getting from there to here. It's been a long time, but my time is finally near. And I can feel the change in the wind right now, nothing's in my way. And they're not gonna’ hold me down no more, no they're not gonna’ hold me down. Cause I've got faith of the heart. I'm going where my heart will take me. I've got faith to believe. I can do anything. I've got strength of the soul. And no one's gonna’ bend or break me. I can reach any star. I've got faith; I've got faith, faith of the heart…"

The couples listened to the music, leaning against each other. Spike and Rarity couldn't help but think the song was meant for them especially. With all they'd been through the last few years they had almost given up hope but they were there, married at last. When the music stopped, the girls left the last note of their voices hang in the air until the crowd erupted in applause.

"Okay now colts and fillies, it's time for the pegasus dance. If you got wings than get your flanks out on the floor for final instructions." Every Pegasus had poured onto the dance circle. The Wonderbolts, who had dressed in their uniforms for the wedding, were weaving through the group with boxes on their back.

Rainbow Dash and Soarin approached Twilight and Luna. "Ladies would you care to join us?" Soarin asked them.

"But we're not pegasi, the dance is for them." Luna protested.

Princess Cadence came up and put a wing on both Twilight and Luna. "This dance is for fliers and we need both of you out there or our surprise will be ruined." Cadence told her. Rainbow grabbed Twilight and Luna and pulled them onto their hooves.

“What about you?” Luna asked her sister.

Celestia floated the twins off Luna's back. "Don't worry about me. I'll just watch the twins until you get back." The two Princesses were led off to the dance floor and noticed something odd. Every pegasi on the floor including Rainbow and Soarin had multiple glow sticks matching their mane color tied to their wings. The glow effect from all the pegasi was bright enough to light the dance circle.

“What is all this Rainbow Dash? Why do you have those things tied to your wings?” Twilight asked her.

“I got the idea from you actually.” The cyan pegasus told her. “Just wait and see, this is going to be so awesome!”

"Okay guys, when the music starts, grab a partner, take off and do what you do best." Spitfire announced.

The music started abruptly. Vinyl had picked a fast paced song with plenty of base. All the pegasi took off into the air weaving and dodging around each other. At the center of it all was Luna and Twilight. The effect of their wings in the air was magnified a hundred fold by the trails of light left by the glow sticks hanging from the pegasi wings. All the ponies looked up and watched the night sky come alive with light. Patterns unfolded, some intricate others simple. Loops, rolls and dives added to the extravagant spectacle of light in the sky. Celestia smiled to herself. 'Tonight is indeed a night for celebration. Sadness can wait for another day.' She thought to herself, holding the letter written by a pony lost in the world and lost in herself.

Let the Meddling Begin!

Life is a risky business and not for the faint of heart.
-S. Little

A lonely sparrow glided on thermal eddies created by the last few rays of the setting sun, in its endeavor to catch a passing insect that inhabited the rocks of its mountain home. Chasing an elusive midge, the plump bird flew over the crest of its rocky home and found itself flying over the golden spires of Canterlot, the royal city of the Alicorn sisters. With its intended target in plain sight, the small bird chased its prey down into the city below. Dodging towers, lampposts, and the strange four-legged creatures that lived there, the sparrow slowly gained on the unfortunate insect. Finally catching the midge in its beak, the plump bird unknowingly lit upon the windowsill of Canterlot's Royal Library to enjoy its meal.

"Hello there little friend" the bird was startled at the sudden acknowledgment. Turning towards the unexpected noise he saw the smiling face of one of the unusual four-legged creatures that inhabited this area of his mountain. It was dark purple in color, had a long horn in the middle of its forehead and possessed a pair of large wings on its back. "Owloysius, is this an acquaintance of yours?"

The dark amber owl studied the bird for a moment then shook his head. "I should say not your majesty." He said. "I do not make it a habit to associate with song birds and I do wish you wouldn't use that name Princess."

"Why ever not, it's so cute how Twilight named you after one of the foremost practitioners of ancient magic. You should feel honored to be named after Owloysius the Wise." Princess Luna told him as the sparrow flew away.

"Indeed your majesty but I feel we should continue before my presence is missed at the Library; night has begun and Twilight will expect me soon."

"Twilight or the female of your breed you met at the sanctuary behind Fluttershy's home?" She asked with a knowing smile.

"Uhm yes, about that." He said, attempting to explain.

"No need to explain, I of all ponies know how strong the pull of attraction can be. I hope you and she are very happy together and I'm pleased that you did not let your romantic interests interfere with your duties." She said.

"As always your majesty, I am but your servant." The owl said with a small bow.

"Now, Owloysius, I must commend you on the detail of these reports but there is some information missing here that I was hoping to obtain." The Princess said.

"Missing information?" The owl asked indignantly. "I spent countless months compiling anything and everything I could find out about these six; what could be missing?"

"Well, for starters, there's nothing here about their relationships." She stated. "Don't get me wrong, you have quite a bit here on their personalities and their abilities, even though I find half the report on Pinkie Pie hard to accept, but nothing here about romantic interests of any kind."

"You can thank the Pink One for that. Every time I tried to observe any of the targets engaged in any kind of romantic reminiscing, she would appear and blow my cover. The only one I could get any information on is the unicorn known as Rarity but then you already know everything about her and her mate."

"Indeed." She acknowledged with a loud drawn out yawn.

"Princess, are you alright?" Owloysius asked concerned. "It's not like you to be so tired this early in the night."

"You worry too much, cup of tea and I'll be as right as rain." She told him.

"Princess, I've been reporting to you once a month for the last four years and never have I seen you so weak. Have you told your sister of this?"

"No, and I have no intention of doing so. It's fine Owloysius, I've been trying to reorient my time awake during the day instead of the night." She explained.

"Can you do that; doesn't the moon and the night need your constant guidance?"

"Between you and me; no, all I really need to do set the moon and the stars on their nightly journey and once I've locked them in their orbit, they no longer require my attention until the dawn. I've been staying up at night to hold court for whatever pony needs guidance during the night hours but they are far and few between and the issues are nothing of any dire importance. I've been meaning to talk to Celestia about discontinuing the practice. Ponies have become too accustomed to our constant presence and the idea of instant conflict resolution should be discouraged in my opinion."

"Hmm, I see. As you wish your majesty though, if you don't mind me saying, I think you should come up with a better excuse lest somepony think your changing things so you can spend more time with a certain pony I've been keeping an eye on for you." The owl said before flying out the window of the library.

Luna raced to the window after him. "Get back here you overgrown feather duster!" She shouted after him as he flew off towards Ponyville.

Luna sat there superficially wounded by the bird's comment. She had tried hard to conceal her ulterior motive for the owl’s mission but it seemed that he had figured it out. 'No, he was just guessing; there's no way he could know the truth.' She thought to herself.

Looking out in the direction of Ponyville, she could make out the lights of the homes burning brightly and the glow from the street lamps as they were lit one by one. Pulling out the silver locket she normally kept hidden beneath her breastplate, she opened it revealing the engraved portrait of a pony she longed to be close to. "Soon," she spoke aloud before gathering up the final reports Owloysius brought her and the numerous other materials spread across one of the library's tables. Packing them away in a set of saddle bags she was almost always seen with, she made her way back to her personal chambers unknowingly followed by the eyes of every royal guard she passed; each of them with an expression of worry upon their face.

===============================================================

Bright light from another beautiful Canterlot morning came streaming into the bedchamber of the younger of the two rulers of Equestria. No matter which way she slept, the sun always seemed to shine directly into her eyes. "Just once Tia, I wish you'd let me sleep in; just once," the dark purple alicorn said to herself.

The alicorn Princess stretched her wings and legs fondly remembering the dream she had just woke from. 'Why do I do this to myself? The same dream every night.' She cursed herself. Luna dragging her weary bones out of bed and walked to her dressing table. More and more she had been feeling weak but she believed it was due to her constant studying and the late night reports she obtained from her faithful servant working undercover in Ponyville. She always seemed to feel weakest when she raised the moon and in the mornings after lowering the lunar body for the day but after a while it went away on its own. Luna dressed in her royal finery consisting of her black crown and chest piece along with her blue silver shoes. She never much cared for the trappings of royalty but wore them anyway as a matter of the public's perception. Before leaving the room she made sure to hide the precious silver locket she wore around her neck.

The Princess walked down from her chambers, passing the various ponies that worked at the palace. This new castle that was built during her exile always felt cold and sterile to the younger Princess. 'I miss the old castle.' She thought to herself. 'The old castle was smaller and felt more like a home than this overly large building. Celestia, why did you have to make it so big?'

As she walked through the palace she noticed that many of the pony officials and members of court bowed and nodded politely but Luna knew it was not because they liked her or particularly cared for her but because she was a Princess. As cold as the palace was to her, she felt that the looks and mock reverence the other ponies held for her was far more chilling. The Princess tried to put those constant negative thoughts aside as she made her way through the corridors and halls to the kitchen. "Good morning Princess Luna. You didn't have to come to the kitchen we would have brought out whatever you liked."

"Thank you Chef Scoltsburg." She said, trying to smile for one of the few ponies in the palace that actually seemed happy to see her.

"Please, I've asked you many a time to simply call me Max. I'm just your cook; I'm nothing special like you and your sister, Princess."

"Oh stop that, you're going to make me blush." Luna said, teasing the earth pony stallion. "I only came down for a couple of apples; I have much work to do and little time to perform it."

"But Princess Celestia is awaiting you in the main dining room." He said. "We've tried to serve her but she insists on waiting for you."

"Please inform my sister that I will not be joining her this morning. I'm sorry, uhm, Max but like I said before, I have much to do. Don't worry about Tia, she doesn't bite." Luna told him as she left to return to her room.

Princess Luna spent most of the day in her private chamber, sequestered from the other ponies in the palace as had become her habit of late. Scattered around her on the floor were maps of Ponyville, Cloudsdale, and the surrounding area. On her right was a select collection of letters written to her sister by Twilight Sparkle on her adventures discovering the power of friendship. Luna loved reading Twilight's letters. Each correspondence was filled with adventure and suspense and at the end of each one, Twilight would reveal some lesson she learned or a valuable secret of friendship she had revealed. Luna had always thought it a guilty pleasure but her favorite letter out of all of them was the report about her visit to Ponyville on Nightmare Night four years ago. It didn't go as well as planned but in the end everything worked out for the best. Amongst the stack of letters was a select few written after Spike returned to Ponyville after his short but unfortunate time as a Werepony. At the end of each of these letters was a short postscript that was never in the previous correspondences. 'P.S. Say hello to Princess Luna for me. P.S. How is Princess Luna doing these days? P.S. I recall when you visited and informed us of Princess Luna's suggestion to help Spike with his financial situation; you said that your sister was working on a special project. Can you tell me what that project might be, I'd love to help out if I could.' She read to herself. It was that last postscript that made her want to write to the lavender unicorn but she though better about it. Luna told herself that if Twilight wanted to correspond with her, she most likely would have written a letter to her directly.

Princess Celestia silently crept into Luna's room. "I missed you at breakfast today sister. Indeed I've missed your company most of the day. What have you been doing up here all by yourself?" Luna squeaked with fright and rapidly gathered up the documents she had laid out.

The purple alicorn quickly stuffed the documents into her pack. "I'm sorry Tia I did not intend to abandon you today. I've been doing research, the last few months have revealed to me that I have much to learn about our subjects; six in particular." She said.

Celestia noticed how her sister quickly hid the silver locket that was hanging freely around her neck. "Luna, did that locket of yours finally open?" The Princess of the sun asked her little sister. "Is that why you've been hiding yourself away, trying to figure out what to say to that special stallion?"

"It opened about a little over a year ago actually." She said blushing.

Before Luna could stop her, Celestia levitated the locket over and opened it. The image she found inside caused her mouth to hang open. "Why Luna, I'm sorry for my earlier comment, I never knew you were like that."

"Like what, a fillyfooler?" She asked, hanging her head.

"You know how much I dislike that term. There is no shame in liking mares; I was simply a bit shocked at which mare it was." Princess Celestia explained.

"You say that like you didn't know." Luna said in a huff. "You gave me that locket, I assume you were the one who put that image in there."

"You are incorrect in your assumption my dear little sister. I may have given you that locket, but it was mother who made it." She informed her.

"Then, the image, what you said when you gave me the locket. Does that mean…"

"Yes my dear sister. That mare is your true love." Celestia said, smiling.

"Do you think I have any chance?" Luna asked hopefully.

"I don't know sister. The only way you'll find out is to follow your heart and do what you believe to be right." Celestia hugged her sister tightly. "I have no idea what you've been planning for all this time but with how little I've seen you and how much you've worked; I have no doubt that you will be successful in your mission."

Slowly walking to the balcony, she called back to her sister. "Tia, I'm going to be gone for a week or so in Ponyville. Could you possible take care of the moon while I'm away?"

"Of course sister. Have a good journey, wherever it may lead you." Luna bounced up and down twice then flew out of the palace, waving goodbye to her sister.

===============================================================

With all her responsibilities as a Princess, Luna rarely had the opportunity to really stretch her wings and fly like many pegasi did. Reveling in the freedom she felt in the air, she tucked her wings in tightly and went into a controlled dive. As the ground rushed up to meet her, she extended her wings and pulled up doing a series of loops and rolls. Luna hadn't had that much fun in such a long time and the clear summer day was perfect for flying. After spending some time to simply enjoy the feeling of the wind blowing through the delicate dark purple feathers of her wings, the Princess reoriented herself toward Ponyville when she recalled the whole purpose of her mission. The ponies embodying the Elements of Harmony had freed her from her prison of hate and nightmares. She wanted so badly to repay them and after the incident with Spike and Rarity, she finally knew of a way. The trees and fields unfolded below Luna. She knew she was getting closer when she could just scarcely see the top of town hall.

'Okay.' She said to herself. 'If I read Twilight's letter correctly, all I have to do is fly over the town and head for the north east corner of Sweet Apple Acres.' Not wanting to be seen, Luna flew north of town and west toward the large Apple farm. Flying quickly over a small cottage near the Everfree Forest, she dove swiftly into the dense apple orchard.

Luna pulled a map from out of her pack and consulted it. "Let's see now." She said aloud. "It should be around here somewhere." The Princess lowered the map and in the distance she could see the pink tree house she was looking for. For something built by fillies, the Princess was impressed. The clubhouse was two-stories tall, taking up a great deal of the apple tree it was built in. The lower floor was obviously where the girls spent most of their time but an open air staircase went up the tree to another floor containing what looked like a telescope though Luna didn't think they used it to look at her night sky. "I only hope they're in there."

The Princess cautiously walked over to the clubhouse and peaked through the window. Inside she found the three young fillies she was looking for. From Twilight's letters she could tell who each was. The filly with a red mane and tail, and a yellow coat was Applebloom, the group's leader. Luna could immediately recognize her from the red ribbon she wore. The little white unicorn with a lavender and pink mane was Sweetie Belle, Rarity's younger sister. The last of the three, an orange pegasus with a fuchsia mane, was Scootaloo. Princess Luna did not know much about her and she was never spoken of at length in any of Twilight's letters. Her own informant had little information on the young flyer but she knew that the three of them couldn't be more than eleven or twelve years old. The dark purple alicorn knocked her hoof against the side of the clubhouse to get the fillies attention. Scootaloo turned around, her jaw dropped at whom she saw outside. The three fillies zipped out to the tree house and came to a screeching halt in front of the Princess.

"Princess Luna!" They shouted in unison.

"Hello little ponies. How are you all today?" She asked them smiling.

"Great!" Scootaloo answered.

"Well," Apple Bloom said. "It would be better if we had our cutie marks."

"But other than that, I guess we're fine." Sweetie Belle finished. "What brings you to Ponyville Princess?"

Luna looked around to make sure nopony was within hearing range. Lowering her head to the little ponies she spoke softly. "Let's go inside. You never know where Pinkie Pie may be hiding." They all walked into the tree house with Luna bringing up the rear. The Princess closed the door slowly until she heard the latch click. Standing as regally as she could, she addressed the fillies in front of her. "I need the help of the Cutie Mark Crusaders. My royal guards could not accompany me on my mission and so I need some brave resourceful ponies to attend me during my stay in Ponyville. Can I count on you three? Are you up to the task?"

The faces of the three fillies lit up like the sun. "We're up for anythin' you need Princess." Apple Bloom announced.

"What can we do for you?" Scootaloo asked.

Luna lied on the ground, bringing her eye level down to theirs. "Do you three remember a year ago when Spike and Rarity came back from Canterlot?"

Sweetie Belle bounced up and down. "I remember that. Rarity was sad for a while and told me she missed Spike a lot. I asked her why and she told me about what happened." She said.

"I wish I could have seen what Spike looked like as a pony." Apple Bloom said.

"Rarity has a picture back at home you can see." Sweetie Belle looked back to the Princess. "We stayed with Twilight for a while because Rarity's dress shop was being worked on. That's when Spike moved in with us. And then my sister had a foal. That was two months ago. You haven't seen him yet have you?"

"No, I haven't seen the new foal yet but I'm eager to do so. I was planning on paying Rarity and Spike a little visit later on." Luna addressed all three of them. "You may not know this but I had a small hoof in bringing Spike and Rarity together. It gave me such a good feeling that I wanted to do something like that for the others."

"Awwwwwwww." Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom said together.

"Not more mushy stuff." Scootaloo complained.

"This has nothing to do with being mushy Scootaloo. Love is a very powerful and natural force. It is possibly the most powerful thing ever, even more powerful than me or my sister."

"Really?" The orange pegasus asked amazed.

"Indeed my little flyer. Now, to accomplish my mission what I need from you three is your help gathering information."

"What kind of information?" Apple Bloom asked.

"I need to know everything about Twilight and her friends. I need to know if any of them already have a special somepony. Is there anypony they like, does anypony like them?"

"Oh we know that already Princess." Apple Bloom told her.

Luna was a little lost for words. "You do? It took me nearly a year just to get what little information I have. Even the agent I have here in town hasn't been able to get me much information past a detailed breakdown of each of the mares. I know about some of their strengths, weaknesses, behavior but nothing on relationships."

"Agent?" Sweetie Belle asked confused.

"My apologies, you know him as Owloysius. He's been living at the library as Twilight's pet for some time now. He's grown so accustomed to Ponyville that I told he could stay if he wished." Princess Luna informed them. "Now, I must know how you three have been able to obtain this information?"

"Well, it's not that hard." Scootaloo said. "Most ponies don't notice us because we're too small. They tend to ignore us and so we hear and see all sorts of things."

"Please, enlighten me of your observations. What have you heard, I'm interested to hear any information you have." Luna said. "Apple Bloom, do you know much about your sister's interests?"

"Yeah, my sister Applejack is completely nuts about our orchard's hired hoof Caramel."

"And does this Caramel return those feelings?" The Princess asked.

"I think so. Caramel doesn't say much but I've seen him starin' at her from time to time, I think that means he likes her." She said. "I've heard my sister cursin' up a storm in her room. From what I heard, every time Applejack tries to get up the nerve to ask him out Pinkie Pie keeps interruptin'." Apple Bloom explained.

"You don't say?" Luna inquired. "You don't think Pinkie is intentionally trying to get in between Applejack and Caramel do you?"

"Oh no Princess, Pinkie has a crush on Apple Bloom's cousin Braeburn in Appleoosa. She's always going on about how nice he was and how she'd like to hang out with him more." Sweetie Belle clarified. "She's always bugging Applejack about when she may be going for another visit. She came to Rarity's shop the other day wanting to know if she could make a hat that looked exactly like his but a darker brown I think. She wouldn't say why but I think it's a present for him."

Luna thought for a moment. "That would make sense. I recall one of Twilight's letters talking about how Braeburn always seemed to find a way to spend a little extra time with Pinkie Pie. But, I don't understand, if Caramel likes Applejack then why doesn't he ask her out on a date? I thought it was supposed to be the stallion that asks first anyway."

"I think poor Caramel is scared of my sister. She can be kinda' scary when she gets frustrated." Apple Bloom said.

"I see, and what about Fluttershy? I know she's a terrible shy mare but do any of you know of anypony she fancies?"

"I'm not sure but I've seen her blush and try to hide every time my big brother Macintosh looks at her or tries to say hello." Apple Bloom offered. "She does that a lot but I've seen her comin' around the farm more often. She doesn't talk to a lot of ponies so it's hard to tell. Big Macintosh doesn't talk a whole lot either."

"That's something I'm going to have to look into. Scootaloo; I know you're particularly close to Rainbow Dash. Is there any help you can give me?"

Luna smiled at the filly's exuberance. "You bet I can!" She proclaimed. "Dash is a lot like Caramel and AJ. She likes Soarin, he's a member of the Wonderbolts. Rainbow took me to a show last year and I got to meet him. He's so cool but not as cool as Rainbow Dash. When they were talking, Soarin seemed nervous like he didn't know what to say. He was blushing really hard, Rainbow too."

"Thank you girls, you've been most helpful." Princess Luna seemed hesitant with her next question. "By any chance, would you girls happen to know about Twilight Sparkle? Is there somepony she likes? Do you know of any pony that likes her?" Luna had asked the question rather half-heartedly. She didn't wish anything but happiness for the lavender mare but secretly Luna hoped that Twilight had feelings for somepony in particular. The three fillies looked at each other and shook their heads.

"Sorry Princess Luna." Apple Bloom apologized. "We haven't heard anythin' about Twilight. We don't really spend all that much time in the library."

"I think it's because she's so busy trying to help out other ponies. She's always stopping some disaster or something. She doesn't seem to have time for herself." Scootaloo added in.

"I bet Spike would know, he lived with Twilight for nineteen years. If anypony would know, it would be Spike. You said you wanted to see the new foal, you can ask him about it when you visit." Sweetie Belle said. The young unicorn looked out the window and noticed the sun going down. "You know, it's getting really late. We should be going home anyway. You wanna' come over now Princess?"

"I suppose I should. I'm long overdue looking in on those two." The Princess and the three ponies exited the clubhouse. "Would you three like to watch me raise the moon before you go home? I asked my sister to look after it while I was gone but I suppose I could do it tonight."

"Yeah, that would be awesome!" Scootaloo answered for all three.

Luna walked out of the orchard onto the country road that ran between the farm and Fluttershy's house so she could see the horizon. Closing her eyes she concentrated on her task, her horn glowing brightly. Luna reached out with her magic until she could feel her mind take hold of the celestial body, anchoring her magic to the moon. 'Hello old friend.' She thought to herself. Guiding the moon along its unseen path, she helped it rise above the horizon to begin its nightly journey.

"There we go. It should be fine traveling by itself till morning. What did you girls think?" The Princess asked them.

"That was amazing!" They shouted in unison.

"Thank you. Sweetie Bell, shall we?" Sweetie Belle and the Princess headed for town. While Apple Bloom and Scootaloo walked back toward the Farmhouse. Without intending to, Luna overheard a quick conversation between the other two fillies.

"You want to stay over again?"

"Sure Apple Bloom, I'd love to." Scootaloo said.

"Do you need to go home and ask your parents if it's okay?" She asked.

"No, uhm, my parents let me do pretty much what I want, I don't have to ask them."

Luna found something about the conversation slightly disturbing but it was something that would have to wait for another day.

===============================================================

Sweetie Belle led Luna back to the Carousel Boutique. While Sweetie Belle walked out in the open, Luna did her best to hide in the shadows until they reached the door of the Boutique. The shop was much different than it was last time Luna saw it during that one Nightmare Night four years ago. One of the most obvious differences was the size of the building. Since her last visit to Ponyville, the boutique had at least doubled in size. Luna and Sweetie Belle quickly stepping inside then closed the door behind them. "Do you think anyone saw us?" Sweetie Belle asked.

"I hope not. I don't want too many ponies to know I'm in town just yet." Luna smiled and winked at the little filly. "What happened to your sister's store? I remember it smaller than this. Is this what you meant when you said her store was being worked on?"

"Yup, when Mom and Dad moved to Trottingham so Dad could manage their soccer team, Rarity insisted that I stay here with her. It worked out for a while, and then she and Spike had the store rebuilt bigger to make room for the baby and to expand the store. The upstairs is home now while the store is down here." She explained while they climbed the stairs to the apartment above the shop.

"Sweetie Belle, is that you?" The question came from a familiar voice in the kitchen as Luna and her escort entered the home. The upstairs apartment was nearly the same size as the shop below. The home was open and circular in shape. The kitchen, washroom, bathroom, and laundry room were off to the left of the front door while three bedrooms made up the left. Sandwiched in between was a large family room furnished with sofas, a radio, and an oval coffee table in the center.

"Yeah, It's me Spike. I brought a guest with me that I think you should meet." The little purple dragon walked into the front room.

"Princess Luna!" Spike ran and hugged Luna around the leg. "How are you? What brings you to Ponyville?"

Luna looked around the room. "We can talk about that later. Where are Rarity and your little one?"

Spike pointed to the back left corner of the apartment. "She's in the bedroom feeding Garnet. Sweetie Belle, if you look after dinner for a moment I'll take the Princess back to see Rarity."

"No problem Spike." Sweetie Belle rushed off to the kitchen. As Spike led Luna down the hall, the young unicorn could be heard in the kitchen. "Oh, my favorite!"

"You certainly are good to her Spike." Luna said.

Spike smiled. "Even though she's Rarity's sister, I kind of feel like a dad to her also. I don't know, I guess becoming a father does something to a guy." Spike knocked on the door and slowly poked his head in. "Dear, Princess Luna is here to see you."

"Oh my goodness, why are you making her wait in the hall?! Let her in." Spike opened the door allowing the Princess to enter.

"Hello Rarity. I'm sorry I could not be here for the delivery; I was unavoidably detained. How are you holding up these days?" The Princess asked as she walked over to the bed where Rarity lie.

The nursing unicorn let out a contented sigh. "I'm doing just fine your majesty. I must admit though there are times I believe little Garnet here has inherited his father's appetite." Spike crawled up on the bed next to Rarity. Luna looked down on the unicorn foal as he feed from his mother. His mane was the same royal purple as his mother while his coat looked close to the light violet color of his father's scales.

"Has he opened his eyes yet?" She asked.

"Yes, he opened them a few days after he was born. Like his appetite, he has his father's emerald eyes too." While they were talking, Garnet had released the hold he had on his mother's teat. Spike scooped up his son. Placing him over one shoulder he patted his back, burping the little foal. The baby unicorn gave out a loud belch.

Spike chuckled. "That's something else he got from me I guess."

"May I?" Luna asked. Spike placed Garnet in Luna's forelegs. The Princess was very careful to support his head while she held him. "He's so tiny." Luna looked at both the happy parents. "I do have to ask, is everything okay with little Garnet. The doctor didn't say anything about abnormalities or development issues?"

"No, but the doctor said the delivery was a bit odd because it happened so fast. He was quite impressed with Fluttershy. With how expertly she had performed, he couldn't believe she had never delivered a foal before. He did say that Garnet was a bit underweight but despite that, he's a perfectly healthy foal." Rarity reassured her. "Out of curiosity, why do you ask?"

"I just wanted to make sure. You did conceive him while Spike was a werepony. I just wanted to be certain there were no problems. I can see you two have things well in hoof. To be honest I was a little worried about how you would handle a baby now that Spike was a dragon again."

Spike put the sleepy foal to bed in the nearby crib. Rarity hugged Spike. "It's been an adjustment but I think we'll be okay."

"Sweetie Belle said you had come here for a very special reason. I assume that means other than seeing our son?" Spike asked.

Luna sat next to the bed. "Yes, there's something I want to do in Ponyville but I need information from you Spike." Luna filled them in with her plan and everything she learned from the Cutie Mark Crusaders.

"Well, that is quite the ambitious plan your majesty and it's all so romantic. For my part I can tell you that everything the girls told you is correct. I don't know how they came about the information but I can't fault it." Rarity confirmed. "I must admit I've tried something similar in the past but I suppose my encouragement may not carry as much weight as that from royalty."

"There's only one last bit of information I need. As you know I have some information on the others but my data on Twilight Sparkle is quite lacking. Spike, is there anything you can tell me about her. You lived with her for at least nineteen years; surly you must know if she's seeing anypony? Is there somepony who's caught her eye?"

"I'm sorry Princess Luna but Twilight's never really talked to me about anything like that." Spike Informed her. "However, from time to time I've caught her looking at a silver locket that she keeps hidden in her mane. She doesn't go anywhere without it."

'A silver locket,' Luna thought to herself. She reached back into her mane a pulled out her own. "Did it look something like this?"

"Yeah, except it didn't have stars on it, it had a full moon obscured by two clouds." Spike informed her. "Twilight let me see it once; it was a gift from Princess Celestia when Twilight first came here. That was before well, you know."

"I see. Well, I must be going. I've kept you long enough I don't want to keep you any longer tonight." Luna turned and walked toward the door. "Thank you for your help Spike."

Rarity and Spike looked at each other. "Princess Luna, if you don't have a place to stay while you're in town, you can always use our spare room." Rarity offered.

"Thank you, your offer is most gracious." Luna accepted cordially. "I'm actually quite tired and if it's okay, I think I'll just turn in now." Spike led her to the guest room and quietly shut the door behind him. Luna lie on the bed trying to sleep but lost in her own thoughts. 'Celestia gave me this locket when I returned from exile, when I was freed from Nightmare Moon. Tia said when I discovered my true love; the locket would open and reveal to me the truth. Is Twilight's the same? If it is, did Celestia make it or did mother somehow know about Twilight all the years ago?' Princess Luna opened her locket and set it open on the nightstand beside her so she could easily see it. Slowly, she fell asleep looking at the picture of Twilight Sparkle held inside.