Mid week madness
Our story takes place in the once quiet town of Ponyville, a town that has recently earned its place on the map. Living in said town of Ponyville we have six mares, out of those six we have one who is a Princess, Princess Twilight Sparkle. Like most stories this story starts of at the start... Cheesy intro HOOOO!!!!
"Spike! Get those books ready to ship out to Manehatten! Hurry, its not like we have all day!" Twilight shouted as she flew around her castle with a checklist hoovering close to her. Every now and then Twilight would pause in mid flight and check the nearby area, mark something off on her checklist and then return to flying around frantically. "Spike, have we received any news from Canterlot about the text books arriving?"
"I-I think the letter is in the hall!" A small purple dragon shouted from below, the dragon was balancing a large amount of books which swayed from side to side. "And I have the last of those books!" The baby dragon placed the books carefully on the grounds and nearly collapsed from exhaustion. "Twilight can I take a break? Surely we could use some of the staff..."
"Do you not think I have done that? Most of them have already done too much and are asking for overtime pay!" Twilight called out as she picked up the books with her magic and skimmed over the titles of each book. "Alright that is the last of them." Twilight calmly said as she landed next to the dragon. "Thanks again Spike. I'm so lucky to have such a useful assistant."
"That's useful number one assistant!" Spike happily replied. "And besides what kind of assistant would I be if I didn't help? Not a good one." Spike laughed and rubbed one of his scaly arms. "I think I might go have a bath, my arms are a bit sore." And with that Spike got up and headed towards the large shower and bath room the castle had.
"Remember to have a shower before you get in the bath! We have no cleaners to clean the grease or scales at the moment!" Twilight shouted out as she herself started to relax. Twilight made her way into the large main room of the castle through a long hallway. Paintings, flowers, tapestries and various other decorations made the hallway pleasant to the eye. Twilight reached the halfway point and glanced over to a nearby table with a neatly seal letter resting on top of it. "Guess this is the letter then." Twilight picked up letter with her magic and opened it.
Dear Princess Twilight Sparkle
We at the Canterlot Learning association consider education of our younger generation a top priority, this why we are happy to inform you that your application for newer textbooks for Ponyville has been approved! Along with the textbooks we have also supplied the necessary equipment to provide practical learning as well as theory. Within seven working days you should receive a delivery containing the following:
Forty Modern Equestria science textbooks
Twenty microscopes
One-hundred and twenty microscope slides
One bacteria incubator, with settings for magical and electrical inputs
One hundred bacteria growth dishes
We hope that these will last at least year before they need replacements. If you have any questions please feel free to write to us.
Your truly,
Lord Pennypincher
Twilight sighed happily as she placed the letter down, it was good to know Pennypincher wasn't being as tight with his wallet. Twilight continued through the long halls and ended up in a large room with several sofas positioned around a fireplace on one side. Twilight sat down and glanced out one of the stained glass windows into the slightly colored world outside. It was a nice day in Ponyville, no rain scheduled until the weekend. Twilight lost herself in though for a minute, she was dragged back into reality when one of the maids got her attention.
"Ahem, Princess?"
"Oh! Yes, what it is?" Twilight replied politely.
"Miss Rarity and Miss Dash have shown up. Do you want me to show them in?"
"Yes please!" Twilight happily replied.
"Of course Princess! I will go get them now."
The maid hastily left leaving Twilight alone in the large room. Twilight magically sparked the fire to life and the room started to warm up. Twilight relaxed and began to feel the stress of the day melt away. Twilight remained alone for a few minutes until the maid brought Rarity and Rainbow Dash into the main room. "Hello Rarity, Rainbow. How are you all today?" Twilight happily asked as her two friends sat down in the main room.
"Awesome, as always." Rainbow cockily said. "Finished clearing the skies super early so I though I would pop down and say hi." Rainbow stretched her legs out and sighed. Rarity gently sat back and relaxed.
"Today has been rather stressful for me, large orders to fill in such a short time. I feel like I have ages five years!" Rarity laughed heartily. "It might be a good time to teach Sweetie Bella the fine art of working a sowing machine. If I can find one that won't burst into flames that is..."
"Well if either of you two want to take a dip in the royal thermal baths, feel free to after Spike has come out. If he has made a mess just tell me and I will get somepony or dragon on it." Twilight informed her guests. The trio fell into silence save the odd happy sigh. After a few minutes Twilight started playing with the fire, making it take shapes and dance around. One moment it would be two ponies doing a ballroom dance and the next it would be three ponies throwing something to and fro. Spike came into the main room with a towel over his shoulders, it became evident that he had seen the guests and taken time to prepare his entrance.
"Ladies..." Spike started as he walked into the large room and took a seat next to Twilight. "The bath is free and clean, before you ask Twilight." Spike smiled cockily and relaxed. "Those warm baths really hit the spot. A lot more then you would think, you should try it sometime Twilight."
"Hey Twilight, do you mind if I use them?" Rainbow Dash asked. Twilight looked at Rainbow with a slightly shocked expression. "Cause, I'm kinda sore. I think it might help."
"My, my! Rainbow Dash taking a thermal bath! I had no idea such a thing was possible!" Rarity joked.
"Its fine by me, do you know where they are?" Twilight replied to Rainbow.
"Uh... I don't think so." Rainbow said in return.
"Spike, would you kindly show Rainbow the thermal baths?" Twilight smiled nonchalantly at Spike who nodded his head and took Rainbow Dash out of the large room. Twilight and Rarity were left in the large room alone, they were sat a large distance apart. Twilight teleported herself next to Rarity and chuckled when Rarity gasped. "So Rarity, what have you been up to the past few days? I have been busy in the castle so I haven't really had a chance to get out recently." Twilight asked trying to prevent a silence appearing.
"I just had a huge order of outfits for the comic convention in Manehatten. Never agree to make latex outfits Twilight, it is horrible to work with." Rarity stated. "I was only just able to finish the order today!" Rarity shook her head and stretched. "Its taken me the better half of this week."
"I have basically been at war with the CLA. They have been avoiding supplying Ponyville with new textbooks for years! I finally decided to take action." Twilight sighed. "In the end we ended up losing a few books to a school in Manehatten but we gained the textbooks we needed." Twilight smiled. "I can't imagine it would be any worse then what you have had to do this week."
"I don't know Twilight, I have had to deal with Canterlot nobles before. They can be rather... Unreasonable at times" Rarity said causing Twilight to perk up slightly. "If you ever need a break from it all I am only down the street. You are welcome anytime Twilight."
"Thanks Rarity, while I like to think that most of our hardships have been and gone. Nothing we have faced has come close to the Equestrian legal system. So many nobles abusing loop holes." Twilight shook her head and closed her eyes. "I'm just glad I have friends to turn to, I don't know what I would do without you all."
The rest of the day passed quickly for Twilight, she spent the time she was alone with Rarity talking to her about the legal system and how to deal with nobles. Rarity talked about her business and how it was going. After a while Spike returned and joined in. Spike bragged about how much work he had been doing over the past few days and Twilight was thankful for his help, and that he worked for free. Twilight talked a bit about the costs of employing ponies to do the various jobs in the castle, term time and insurance. After a while Rainbow Dash came back from the thermal baths.
"The worst part is, they would get the week off AND get paid! They might as well steal everything that isn't nailed down while they are at it." Twilight stressed as she talked about vacation days that the staff had. "Some of them even come in to work, and demand double pay! I don't ask them to come in... Something about vital staff or other. I just send them on their way and tell them to enjoy their day off."
"That's perfectly normal Twilight, not everypony can work twenty four hours a day. We all need our breaks every now and then." Rarity stated. "And vital staff are the ponies that keep this place running, they can't take their vacation days off because they are always needed. That's why they get double pay on said days." Rarity sighed. "What kind of jobs do they do?"
"They do things that I could normally do, but because I'm a Princess they don't let me. Things like cooking, cleaning, sorting books and doing the odd chore here and there. But I did all of that back when I was a unicorn!" Twilight huffed. "All that has changed is that I have gotten stronger! Why does that mean I must have ponies do everything?"
"Maybe they are worried they might invoke the wrath of Twilight Sparkle?" Spike said innocently.
A silence fell for a few moments until everyone in the room burst into hysterical laughter. Spike fell backwards on the sofa and nearly onto the floor. Rarity was giggling like a school filly. Rainbow Dash was pounding the floor while she laughed like a mad mare. Meanwhile Twilight was doing something between a cackle, evil laugh and a hysterical laugh.
"Oh Spike!" Rainbow tried to speak but her laughter overtook her. After a few moments of laughing Rainbow Dash calmed down a bit. "Spike you are TOO funny. Like Twilight would ever unleash her wrath because she has to cook herself food and sort books!" After a while the group calmed down and took note of the time.
"Stars above, would you look at that! Luna is raising the moon!" Rarity exclaimed. "My goodness, how long have we been here?" Rarity looked over to the clock, which was now nearing eleven O clock. Rarity sighed and got up. "I hate to be the first to leave, but I need to make sure my shop hasn't been ransacked."
"Like anything like that would happen in Ponyville Rarity. If anything somepony would have come over and said that you left you shop open." Rainbow Dash said happily as she joked about the residents of Ponyville.
"One can never be sure, a lady expects the best but prepares for the worst!" Rarity paused. "The one time I didn't do that I regretted it dearly." Rarity stated.
"That make sense, but what time was the Rarity?" Spike inquired.
"The grand galloping gala, I think you all know the details of that night well. Lets just say I had some rather unladylike thoughts in my head after that night." Rarity sighed. "I am so glad you were all there to help me... To pick me up..." Rarity smiled happily.
"We will always be there for you Rarity, no matter what happens." Twilight said sternly, hammering her point in.
Rarity's eyes were staring to water up. "I do believe I am getting rather emotional all of a sudden... I am terribly sorry." Rarity chuckled happily. "I better get going before I make a fool of myself." Rarity waved goodbye to her friends and made her way out of the large room. Leaving Spike, Twilight and Rainbow still in the large room.
Rainbow yawned rather loud and scratched her belly briefly. "I better get going as well. Somepony has to be up early to deal with the weather front blowing in from the Everfree." And before either Spike and Twilight could argue Rainbow Dash took off quickly. "See you tomorrow!" Rainbow shouted as she flew out the castle at an unsafe speed.
Twilight sighed. "At least she didn't crash into anypony this time..." Twilight yawned loudly. "Guess its time for bed as well..." Twilight turned and looked at Spike who was starting to curl up into a ball. Twilight picked him up and placed him on her back with her magic and started to make her way up the stairs towards the upper levels. Soon she was outside Spike's bedroom. While Twilight had said she was okay with Spike remaining in her room, Spike insisted that he got his own room. Twilight placed the small baby dragon in his over-sized bed and gently tucked him in. Twilight left the baby dragons room and went into her room.
Twilight's own room was huge in comparison to what she was used to. The room had a variety of different furnishings, from gilded tapestries to exquisite paintings to fully stocked bookcases. Chandeliers and tall candle sticks decorated the room and kept it well let. Dressers and drawers full of fancy clothes that no Princess would be without. At the far end of the room a bed that could easily house five growing dragons was furnished with a royal red sheets and gilded columns on the four corners. Curtains that were translucent were hung from the top of the bed and could be drawn to filter light. Over the translucent curtains a thick red set of curtains were help up and could be dropped in order to give the sleeper privacy, should they need it.
Twilight sighed as she began to walk towards her bed. She glanced around the room, it was huge, it was warm, it was well kept and lastly it was lonely. It had enough space for a pony to live their whole life in the room. And yet Twilight was the only one who ever got to use it. Twilight missed having company by her while she slept, the gentle breaths and snoring of a certain baby dragon, the odd hooting of a nighttime assistant. All gone because of the drastic change from library to castle. Twilight gently got into her large bed and prepared herself for another lonely night.
Twilight's dream...
As with most of her dreams, Twilight's dream took place in a large library. Books flew off the bookcases and flew around the large library. Twilight used her magic to grab a few books and scan their titles, Twilight had learnt over the years that the title of the book often showed her how she felt and what she wanted. Twilight looked at the first book and read its title to herself. Twos company, threes a crowd... Twilight threw the book away, she ignored the books that seemed to be about two ponies by themselves. Twilight grabbed the second book with her magic and brought it over. Before Twilight could read the book her dream shuddered causing her to drop the book on the floor.
"Young Twilight!" Princess Luna announced as she landed in Twilight's dream. "We detected a grievance in your dream." Luna looked sternly at Twilight. "Is there something you wish to share with us?" Twilight sighed and picked up the book that she dropped and read its title, she then gave the book to Luna.
"This should explain it." Twilight sighed and sat down while Luna examined it. Luna gave Twilight a puzzled look. "The title of the book represents what I am feeling. The title of that book is... The misadventures of Marcus the Unfortunate."
"We understand this, but why?" Luna questioned.
"In that book Marcus spend the majority of the book alone, looking for somepony to be with." Twilight stated. "To put it into context, I have not adjusted too well to living in the castle. It feels hollow and I spend most of my time by myself. I miss having my friends over and spending time with them, I spend most of my time backed up in the legal system alone."
"We spent one-thousand years on the moon alone, it is a fate we would not wish on anypony." Luna said sorrowfully. "How can we help?"
"It alright Luna, this is just something I am going to have to get used to." Twilight said, however Luna was busy picking and reading the titles of some of the other books. "Luna?"
"Twilight, after reading a few of these books it has become clear. You seek a partner." Luna said calmly as Twilight gained a puzzled look. "All these books, their titles are to do with couples. Couples and alone..." Luna stopped when she noticed Twilight was staring at the ground. "Twilight? Art thou alright?"
"I have never really thought about like that... I started seeing those books after the last hearts and hooves day but I never thought it meant anything." Twilight shook her head. "What do I do?"
Luna paused a thought for a moment. "You must do what you want to do young Twilight. However, I would recommend finding somepony to spend your days with. Royal life can change a pony." Luna sighed and decided it was time to leave the dream, however just as she was about to take off Twilight called out and stopped her.
"Luna!" Twilight shouted out, causing Luna to stop. "Can't you give me any advice?" Luna paused and rubbed her chin.
"Maybe... We have not had much experience since our return..." Luna admitted. "However I do know a good starting point!" Luna happily announced.
"Could you please tell me?" Twilight insisted. Luna chuckled happily.
"Well, back before we were banished we had a certain mare approach us... They proposed a strange offer to us, one that we had never thought a pony would have asked." Luna started. "It was one of our more favorable nobles who attended the night court."
"What did they request?" Twilight hastily said, awaiting Luna's reply.
"We will not go into detail about what happened, but they requested that we... Court them, have them as a consort." Once Luna finished she awaited Twilight's response, when Twilight failed to respond she had to explain more. "Back then consorts were not uncommon in the royal family. We all had our needs, however one that was a mare was unheard of. Seeing as... What is the term? Fillyfooling?" Twilight nodded. "Was unheard of." Luna paused again an awaited Twilight's response.
"So what did you say?" Twilight said, asking the one question Luna had hoped she wouldn't ask.
"At first we said no. However curiosity got the better of us and we decided to accept. What we are trying to say Twilight is that... Know what you are after." Luna said slowly, making sure that Twilight understood what she meant. "Do not waste your time by fussing." Once Twilight nodded Luna decided to change the subject. "Could we ask a question Twilight?"
"Of course, ask away." Twilight replied, not knowing where the conversation was going.
"Do you think we have improved since returning?" Luna asked, throwing Twilight into a state of confusion.
Twilight took a moment to think about what Luna had asked. "You certainly have, you don't shout as much and your speech has improved save the odd outburst, but I think that is expected because of how long you were away." Twilight said happily, causing Luna to smile joyfully.
"That is good to know Twilight, however we are needed elsewhere in the dreamscape." Luna started to fly off. "So long Twilight, I hope we can meet again!"
Twilight remained in her dream by herself, she looked over to the books Luna had looked at and read the titles. Most of them were about ponies going on adventures and saving the world, a few were about two ponies living out their lives and doing normal things pony did and lastly a few books were about romantic relationships between ponies. Twilight chuckled, how had she not noticed how bad it had gotten, how had she not seen the obvious signs, how could she of not felt that pang in her heart when she saw her brother getting married...
Then their was what Luna said to her, know what you are after. Those words bounced around in Twilight's head, Twilight had never really though about what she preferred when it came to relationships. Twilight suddenly had a idea that struck like lightning. "Maybe, just maybe. If I scan the books I will get some sort of answer!" Twilight triumphantly said out loud before she remembered that she was the only pony around. Using as much magic as she could muster in her dream, she pulled as many books as she could down and began scanning the titles.
Social hierarchy and you... How do I fit in? Clearly a book about groups, not what I am looking for.
Love on the run, five minute emergency plans if you forgot! Helpful, but only if I get to that stage. I doubt I would forget anything though.
Relationships a premier. Book two of four. Ah ha! That is just what I am looking for!
Twilight pulled the large book out of the pile, she was happy that she had found it so quickly. While to books title held no answer, Twilight was certain she would find it inside. Without reading the contents page, Twilight flicked to the first chapter. Sitting in big bold letters at the top of page the title of the chapter mocked her.
Chapter one: Stallion/stallion relationships.
Twilight slammed the book shut and took a deep breath and opened the book to its contents page. Got a bit too excited there Twilight, you just need to look for the first one that applies to you. Twilight started reading the chapters, the first half of the book seemed to be about stallion dating rather then mare. A large amount of strange relationships that Twilight never thought would work were listed. While scanning Twilight wondered when she had read the book, seeing as she could only ever see books that she had read. While Twilight pondered on the thought she lost track of where she was on the chapter list, she threw the book down and it turned to a random page.
Twilight picked up the book and looked at the page it was on. The page was is the back half of the book so Twilight had no idea what it was about without backtracking to the chapter introduction. Twilight flicked over to the chapter page and looked at it. Twilight took a few moments to double check and to make sure she had read it correctly. Sure enough, the chapter title had not changed.
Chapter twelve: Mare/Mare relationships.
Twilight closed the book and smiled gingerly to herself. As Twilight thought about, the more it seemed to make sense, she had always seemed to hang around other mares. The only stallion or male she knew well was Spike and her brother, but both those options were out before the idea even came to mind. Twilight sighed happily, in her dream she felt satisfied and happy. This hadn't happened since she moved into the castle, her dreams were normally about work or things she used to do. Twilight spend the rest of her dream enjoying herself self and awaiting for the morning to wake her up.
Rarity pushed the door open to her house/clothes shop, much to her relief everything was still intact and the place had not been ransacked. A few boxes marked with the same address were taking up a large portion of the main shop section and a few ponyequins were scattered around, making the room messy. Rarity sighed and made her way to the kitchen, while she would have normally cleaned up the mess on the spot she was far to tired to do so tonight. Opalescence was sleeping soundly in the cat bed. Rarity spoke out to the sleeping cat, trying to express her feelings but keep the cat asleep. "Oh Opal, why do I do it? I keep telling myself I will stop, that I will slow it down..." Rarity opened one of the many cupboards and took out a small box of herbs, a gift from Zecora to help her magical abilities when she struggled. Rarity added the special herbs to a mug and put the kettle on.
Rarity sat down at the table, it had been a long hard few days. All she could think about doing was going to sleep, but she had grown accustom to certain rituals so to speak. The kettle hissed as it started to boil and Rarity quickly poured the hot water into the mug. Rarity added a small amount of milk to the mixture and it turned a light brown color. Rarity gently sipped it, making sure she had done it properly. Once she was happy with the brew she quickly drank it down and awaited for the buzz of the herbs to kick in.
The herbs started to take effect, a slight tingling feeling started to swell up in Rarity's head, slowly moving up towards her horn. Rarity made her way up to her bedroom and gently walked into her bedroom. The large four-poster bed took up a large amount of space, however there was still enough room for some fabric drawers and a few ponyequins by the windows. Rarity drew her curtains and lit the light in her room before she shut the door and got into bed. Rarity sighed once again. "I keep saying I will stop..." Rarity's sentence trailed off as her horn lit up in its signature glow. The room lit up brightly as Rarity's spell took affect. Within moments the blue aura died down and the room was dark, save the celestial being that Rarity had summoned.
The celestial being, or dream wraith that Rarity had summoned looked like a small shifting constellation of stars. The being hoovered in the air, awaiting its summoners magic to shape it. Rarity 's horn lit up again and she started to shape the being. First Rarity changed the color of the wraith into a shade of purple similar to Twilight's, next she gave it Twilight's hair, wings and horn. Lastly Rarity shaped the features of Twilight onto the being, from facial feature to cutie mark. Lastly Rarity fed the wraith a command, causing it to spark to life. The celestial, partially translucent and starry Twilight slowly walked over to the bedside. Rarity moved up and allowed the construct to get into the bed. "Oh Twilight, it has been such a rough day today... My hooves are raw..." Rarity rolled over and looked the construct in the eyes. The construct nodded and wrapped a wing around Rarity. "Yes, maybe it would be a good idea to get a good nights rest Twilight, I guess I will see you in the morning..." Rarity yawned and drifted off into a sleep.
Rarity regretting not spending enough time with her construct, it was after all a hoof crafted construct that many unicorns would struggle to make. Rarity was only able to make one with the assistance of a special tea that Zecora could make. However the worst part for Rarity was the last words she said. The "I guess I will see you in the morning..." Rarity disliked this for two reasons. First of all, it was a lie. The construct would flicker out before daybreak and secondly, Rarity was not happy with it. It was such an unromantic thing to end on. However nothing could be done, Rarity was asleep.
Rarity's dream...
Rarity was in a large warehouse that was full of material, sowing machines and ponyequins, a dressmakers paradise. However before she could live out of dream of making a dress worthy of the creator of everything, Princess Luna swiftly landed in her dream, causing it to shake.
"P-Princess Luna! What a pleasant surprise... What brings you to my dream?" Rarity stuttered as she gave a gracious bow and awaited for Luna's reply.
"Arise Lady Rarity, we have not come to inquire about the state of ones dream. But the reality of a situation." Luna said in response. Rarity quickly rose up and relaxed slightly. "You have recently constructed a magical being out of a dream have you not?"
"I do believe I have done such a thing." Rarity admitted. "I was not aware that it had any negative repercussions." Rarity sighed, thinking she would have to give up making the constructs.
"Nay, they don't. However, due to their nature we are able to see what the summoner created. You seem to have developed quite the preference for the young Twilight..." Luna said, carefully phrasing her words so she didn't say anything too blunt.
"Yes... I appear to have developed something... I keep telling myself I will stop, but I just can't seem to get to sleep without her." Rarity admitted, sounding ashamed. "I have considered taking a break and seeing if I could consult Princess Cadance about matter..."
"Nay, you need not do such things. We can provide assistance in such department." Luna said triumphantly.
"Are you sure that is such a good idea?" Rarity questioned. "I do appreciate the offer, but..."
"It is of no quarrel to us. We, would be more then happy to support your endeavors!" Luna said, shrugging off Rarity's question. "Now, how can we help?"
"Well, I guess... First of all I... We need to figure out Twilight's... Preference." Rarity said slowly, trying to put it in a way that Luna would understand.
"Very well! We shall be back soon, if not tomorrow!" Luna happily announced as she vanished from the dream, leaving Rarity slightly stunned.
"What just happened? Why is Luna matchmaking..?"" Rarity puzzled to herself before she settled into her dream.
That morning... Canterlot...
Luna had finished tending to ponies dreams, it was nearly time for Celestia to raise the sun for the day and Luna to lower the moon and go to bed. Luna made her way to the balcony and was surprised to see Celestia already awake and awaiting her.
"Greetings sister, oh what a pleasant night it has been!" Luna happily announced as she stood next to her sister. Celestia smiled warmly at her.
"I am almost scared to ask... Who did you pair together tonight?" Celestia said warmly with a small chuckle.
"No, none tonight. Just... Things have happened." Luna chuckled.
"What kind of things sister?" Celestia asked, sound slightly concerned about Luna's nighttime antics.
"We were in the process of inquiring about a pony summoning dream constructs, much to our surprise we found the point of origin to be Rarity." Luna paused for a moment, however Celestia nodding signaled her to go on. "While we are unaware of how she learnt such a spell, we were surprised when we saw what she made with it. A construct that bared a striking resemblance to the young Twilight."
Celestia signaled for Luna to stop talking and placed her hoof on her chin and rubbed it gently. "So Rarity was making constructs of Twilight... But for what purpose?" Celestia inquired while remaining calm about the slightly creepy situation.
"We to wondered about why Rarity was doing such things. However all the construct did was get into bed with her and gently hug her until she feel asleep and the magic drained." Luna replied, making Rarity sound slight less like a stalker. "Rarity, was merely admitting how she felt to me in the dream."
"I see... Then what happened?" Celestia said, her curiosity peaking.
"Well, we offered our help of course. Shorty after arriving we left for Twilight's dream, she dreamed about books. But the books spoke her feelings. Twilight's books told us that she is in need of a life partner. We left before we could find out more, out powers needed elsewhere in the dreamscape."
"I see..." Celestia calmly said, trying to process what she had heard. "So you found out that Rarity was creating magical constructs that looked like Twilight, and was using them to simulate her dreams..."
"To an extend, yes she was." Luna admitted, she was disheartened that she did not know the full reason for the constructs however she felt it would be something she was better off not knowing.
"You visited Rarity in her dreams, and she told you why she was making the constructs. You then offered you help to her." Celestia continued. "You then went into Twilight's dream and found out she is seeking a partner."
"Very much so, I believe that is all." Luna said as Celestia concluded. "A night well spent if we can say so." Luna happily announced as she started to lower the moon. "We shall see what more we can do tonight." And with that, Luna flew off towards her chambers. Leaving a slightly concerned and confused Celestia behind to raise the sun.
Author's Note
The cheesiness has landed! Annnnd for the record, Rarity's dream happened before Twilight's.
Also, if you are cringing, its over you big baby. Go make some toast.
Twilight was awoken by the warmth of the sun gently creeping over her while she slept. Twilight gently rolled over and gazed at the large grandfather clock that was next to the drawers. Twilight read the clock, it read six o clock. Twilight gently got up and made her bed, she yawned and went over to the dresser and did her mane to have its normal look. Twilight couldn't help but think about her dream last night, she could have sworn that something life changing happened in it but she wasn't so sure. Maybe she would remember over a good mornings breakfast? Either way, it wasn't going to stop Twilight from living her life as a Princess.
Twilight made her way to the over-sized kitchen. While Twilight prided herself in waking up early, the servants always seemed to be awake ten minutes before her. Twilight could smell her breakfast being made by a dozen chefs. Rather then repeat her normal cycle of entering the kitchen and trying to take over, Twilight decided that it would be nice to sit down ready and let the servants do their job. Twilight walked into the large over-sized dinning room, Spike was already sat down and waiting for his breakfast.
"Hey Twilight, what brings you to the dinning room at this time? And why aren't you trying to take over the kitchen?" Spike said smugly, chuckling slightly as he spoke.
"Very funny Spike. I don't know why but I felt different today. Not sure what is happening..." Twilight sighed and robbed her forehead. "Any ideas Spike?"
"None at all, I have no idea how you ponies deal with your life. I will just stick to being an assistant." Spike said happily, suddenly the hefty smell of pancakes wafted into the room, teasing to the two occupants of whats to come. "Hey Twilight, could you run into the kitchen and get them to hurry up. I am really hungry." Spike said as he waited.
"Spike, if I did that they would have to deal with me shouting at them. Logically, that would make them work slower. And besides, that smell can only mean they're nearly done." Twilight pointed out, causing the young dragon to sigh and cross his arms. Twilight chuckled as she waited for her breakfast to arrive. A silence settled in, giving Twilight time to think about last night. Twilight remembered being in her normal dream, she remembered books, she remembered Princess Luna and she remembered a certain book. Then it hit her, it hit her like a heard of charging buffalo. If the force that hit her had been physical, she would have been launched around Equestria several times. Twilight cursed herself for not remembering, how could she have forgotten? Then again, how could the books have shown Twilight what she wanted. Surely if Twilight was really into mares and the book said otherwise she would have just ignored it. While Twilight pondered on the workings of her dreams a servant carrying a feast of a breakfast with his magic entered the room.
Was that needed? I think yes. OVER DRAMATIZE ALL THE WORDS!
Twilight was snapped from her thoughts by one of the servants addressing her. "Princess Sparkle, we hope you enjoy breakfast today. We appreciate that you did not feel the need to... Supervise us today..." The servant quickly went back to his duties in fear of insulting Twilight. However Twilight either didn't notice or wasn't offended.
"Thank you sir, I appreciate you bringing me breakfast..." Twilight said automatically, however the servant had already left. Spike dug into his meal quickly, making a mess around him. Twilight snapped out of her thoughts. "Spike, you are making a mess." Twilight said bluntly as she started to eat her breakfast slowly.
"I'm just helping the work do its job. By making a mess I give the cleaners something to do, meaning they get paid." Spike said, defending his mess making. Twilight rolled her eyes and resumed eating her breakfast. Spike continued to stuff himself until there was no food left. Without saying a word Spike jumped up and left the dinning room, leaving Twilight alone. Aside from the cleaners coming in and take the remains of Spike's breakfast Twilight was completely alone, she had time to plan her day.
As much as Twilight wanted to to escape from it all she knew she had some duties as a Princess. While none initially sprung to mind but Twilight knew she could easily go and ask Spike if she had any, but that would require tracking down the baby dragon in the rather large castle. Twilight was certain that if she had any urgent tasks that needed to be done, she would remember.
Twilight finished her meal and decided it would be a good day to go visit her friends rather then stay in the castle and work finances. After all it was good for her to get out every once in a while. Twilight returned to her bedroom and debated getting dressed up. While going out was an informal thing with no reason to get all dressed up, Twilight was still royalty and needed to give a positive image. Then again, it was Ponyville. Twilight decided against wearing a dress.
Once Twilight was happy with how she looked she headed outside, unlike most days where it was sunny a thick cloud had set over Ponyville. Signalling that there would be rain later in the day. Twilight planned out her visit to her friends, she would start off and head to Applejack's farm. It was the furthest away, but they would most likely need a helping hoof preparing for the incoming rain. Twilight would then head to Sugarcube corner and check up on Pinkie, then she would head to Rarity's house and see if she needed help with anything. then Twilight would check if Rainbow was coping with the large amount of rain and finally Twilight would head to Fluttershy's cottage and make sure she was alright.
Twilight mentally sighed. Phew, being a good friend is hard work sometimes! However Twilight was ready for the day ahead, however she wasn't ready for Rainbow Dash nearly crashing into her.
"HeyTwilightwtachoutI'mgonnacrash!" Rainbow blurted out as she fell from the sky. Twilight quickly prepared a magic net to catch her. Rainbow landed safely in the net and Twilight let her down. "Phew, thanks Twilight. Although I had that under control." Rainbow said in her normal, slightly smug voice. "Yup I didn't need any help with the landing then."
Twilight rolled her eyes, however Rainbow failed to notice, she was to busy talking about her latest air routine. "So Rainbow, why were you nearly crashing?" Twilight said, interrupting Rainbow.
"Oh just came to warn you about the storm. Yeah we got a pretty big one coming in. I have been to everypony except you and Rarity, but that was because I thought you two would stay inside." Rainbow announced. "So what brings you out then Twilight? Haven't seen you outside for a while."
"That's the exact reason why I have come out today. I never go out anymore." Twilight huffed. "But that ends today!" Twilight announced loudly. However a drop of rain interrupted her.
"Alright Twilight, I'm going to head back to my cloud and keep an eye on the storm. Could you do me a favor and check up on Rarity?" Rainbow gave Twilight wave and then flew off above the clouds.
"Yeah... Sure I can..." Twilight sighed as she spoke to the empty space which Rainbow was stood in.
Rarity was awoken by the gentle pitter-patter of rain on the window. Rarity gave a ladylike yawn as she stretched and got out of bed. Rarity looked at the clock that hung above the doorway. Nine O'clock. Rarity sighed, she had hoped that she had slept longer. After Luna had left her alone in the dream Rarity had a more... Enjoyable dream with Twilight, however the rain had awoken Rarity just before it got interesting. Rarity tidied her bed and drew the curtains, the room seemed a little bit lighter however the clouds blocked out most of the natural light.
"What a downright dreadful day..." Rarity remarked, she had planned on visiting Twilight and finally confessing how she felt, but just like last night, and the time before that. Rarity would most likely freeze up when she and Twilight were alone and divert the conversation. "Oh Twilight, one of these days." Rarity gazed in her mirror, her mane was a mess and need immediate attention.
Rarity hummed happily as she tidied her mane and stylized it to its normal style, she looked back at the mirror and smiled confidently. "There you are Rarity!" Rarity chuckled and made her way downstairs and into the kitchen. The rain had just started to pick up into a more violent downpour and was now making more noise. Rarity scanned her cupboards for and suitable foods. A few pieces of fruit, a bowl of mixed oats with fruit and some flavored milk later Rarity felt as fresh as she could be.
Rarity went into her workshop and grabbed a clipboard with her magic and levitated it over, she flicked through a few pieces of paper and then sighed loudly. "No work for me today then..." As much as Rarity was happy to have a day off, it couldn't of come on a worse day. The rain was falling so hard that even the idea of going outside without the proper protection made Rarity shiver. "Last time it was this bad..." Rarity trailed off, thinking about the time she and Applejack had a sleepover at Twilight's house. Things had been so much easier for Rarity back then, back before she had all these complicated feelings for Twilight.
Rarity left her workshop and made her way to the main room of her house, which was also the showcase room for the clothes shop. Rarity could see puddles forming outside from the heavy rain, deciding that rainfall was probably not the best help for getting inspiration, Rarity went over and started to shut them. When Rarity reached the last curtain she noticed somepony outside, while the pony was too far away for Rarity to identify them Rarity felt like she had to go see what was happening. Grabbing a umbrella with her magic Rarity opened the door and headed out.
Twilight had gotten lost in thought, she hadn't noticed the rain picking up or the slowly forming puddles until it was too late. Twilight was contemplating heading home, however suddenly the rain stopped. "Huh?" Twilight puzzled, looking up to see a familiar looking umbrella held in a familiar blue magic shielding her from the rain. "Rarity?" Twilight quickly looked around and saw Rarity approaching her.
"Twilight! Whatever brings you out in this weather?" Rarity questioned.
"Well I was coming out to see everyone, but the weather had other ideas." Twilight sighed. "Sometimes I wonder why the weather team allows the rain allowance stack up." Twilight used her magic and expanded the covered zone on the umbrella, the umbrella was now comfortably covering both Twilight and Rarity, however Twilight was dripping wet from day dreaming in the rain.
"So Twilight, do you want to head back to mine? Its a lot closer." Rarity requested.
"Alright Rarity, lead the way." Twilight said happily as the pair of them set off under the umbrella and magical field. "So Rarity, are you doing much today?" Twilight started, making small talk.
"No, not much today. I have finished my recent order and this dreary weather is no help for my inspiration." Rarity commented. "So Twilight, do you have anything to do today that I might be able to help with?"
"Luckily for me, I don't think so. Nothing comes to mind when I think about it. I would have asked Spike, but that would have meant tracking him down in the castle, which would have taken hours." Twilight chuckled happily. "That baby dragon sure can hide, besides if I was needed today he would have told me at breakfast."
"Maybe we can catch up in my house? I would like that." Rarity said as the pair got closer to her house.
"I'd like that Rarity. Its been too long since we have had a catch up session." Twilight stated.
The pair arrived at Rarity's and went in. Twilight quickly dried herself off with magic to avoid bringing the damp weather inside. Rarity went into the kitchen a started making tea. Twilight sat down on one of the large sofas in the main reception area. A few dresses were on display here and there, however due to the rain it was unlikely that anypony would see them. Twilight once again mulled over the events that had happened the previous night, this new insight on herself didn't have to affect her friendships she already had in any way, shape or form.
Rarity came into the room levitating a tray off tea behind her. "So Twilight, picking up from where we left yesterday. How have things been?" Rarity inquired as she poured herself a cup of tea.
"Aside from dealing with the odd unruly noble trying to get more then they deserve, uneventful. Don't get me wrong, I love how its peaceful it is but sometimes I miss the old days." Twilight sighed, recalling the days when the group would save Equestria from an ancient evil.
"I must admit Twilight, I do miss the glory days." Rarity agreed. "But, we must focus on our future!" Rarity said passionately. "You have your duties as a Princess and I have my duties as a dressmaker!"
"You're right Rarity, no point pondering on what was. We need to think about what will... Happen." Twilight said, trying to mimic Rarity's vigor when she spoke. "And besides, we always have the history books that document our victories." Twilight said happily. While Twilight spoke Rarity poured her a cup of tea and began drinking from the cup she had made for herself. Twilight grabbed the cup Rarity had made for her with her magic and drank from it. Unlike Rarity, Twilight wasted no time savoring the warm drink and downing it quickly. "Thanks Rarity, I needed that. Magic might be able to make me dry, but tea helps warm me up."
Rarity listened to Twilight as she went into detail about how the Equestrian legal system needed a 'serious revision' and how boring the castle had been. After an hour of listening Rarity was able to build enough courage to inquire about Twilight's plan for a partner. "So Twilight, I know that life in castle must have taken some getting used to. However surely living in such a place would be nicer with somepony else. Not Spike of course, somepony closer." Rarity tried to avoid asking the question directly, however a slightly puzzled look from Twilight made her realize she had avoided it too much. "You know, a special somepony... Someone to spend those cold nights in the castle with."
"Oh! One of those!" Twilight half shouted when she joined the dots together. "Well I... I mean I have put some thought into it, the castle does get a bit lonely sometimes." Twilight admitted. "Its just, I think the kind of pony I would be looking for would be..." Twilight started to say slowly, unaware of Rarity views on the matter. "I think I would be looking for a mare... Not a stallion... Does that make sense? I mean, you did have that thing for Blueblood after all."
Rarity heart fluttered for a brief moment, she had always imagined Twilight falling for handsome stallion, leaving Rarity with the duties of dressmaking for the wedding. "Well I understand what you are say Twilight and to be honest... I feel the same way. After that whole escapade with Blueblood I have been rather put off of stallions and well... I..." Rarity stopped speaking, she wanted to tell Twilight how she felt, every fiber of her body screaming at her. However she froze up.
"Oh! I didn't know... How could I not know? Were supposed to be best friends, but I don't even know everyone's preferences..." Twilight said, sounding defeated. Twilight's ears dropped down and her gaze turned to the floor. Rarity noticed how upset Twilight was immediately.
"Twilight, darling. It quite alright, knowing ones sexual preferences isn't something that you would share out. And does anyone know of your preferences?" Rarity said happily, trying to perk Twilight up.
"Well... It hasn't been something I ever really thought about. If I could share a secret Rarity, Princess Luna visited me last night and made me think about it. I hadn't thought about it until then." Twilight said as she perked back up.
Rarity thought about Luna visiting her last night and wondered if that had anything to do with Luna visiting Twilight. Then again, Luna did say she would see Twilight when she left Rarity's dream, so it was most was due to Rarity. "O-Oh! I guess that was a surprise!" Rarity said putting on a fake surprised tone. "So Luna visited your dream and all of a sudden you are into mares?"
"Well, not like that. In my dream their are signs, some I had been ignoring. The ones I were ignoring were the ones suggesting that I needed a partner. After looking at a few of them I became aware that I had an attraction to mares and the more I thought about it the more I realized that it is what I wanted." Twilight informed.
Rarity was intrigued about how Twilight's mind worked, however she wanted to know if Twilight had any plans or interests. "Oh, I see. So Twilight, do you have any idea for who might be the lucky mare?" Rarity asked nonchalantly.
"No... I don't really know any mares that are into mares. Except you." For a few seconds Rarity considered what Twilight had implied, however she briefly threw the idea away due to Twilight's nature. "Hey Rarity, do you know any mares?"
"Well I..." Rarity started, it was true that in her time in Ponyville a few mares had asked her if she was seeing anypony. However Rarity didn't want any other pony with Twilight, she wanted to be with Twilight. "I can't say that I do darling..." Rarity lied, being thankful that Twilight was unable to pick up on her lie. "However, if I see anypony. I will send them your way."
For a brief second, Twilight could have sworn she saw Rarity twitch slightly. Just after she said she didn't know any mares who were into mares. Twilight was aware how certain ponies had 'tells' when they were lying; scratching, twitchy ears, turning away, stuttering and general twitching were some of the unusual suspects. However rather then call Rarity on it Twilight progressed. "Well, thanks Rarity, I'm lucky to have a friend like you." Twilight said, trying to get Rarity to confess to lying however all she got was a pained expression from Rarity.
"T-That's quite alright darling, its what any friend would do!" Rarity stumbled slightly causing Twilight's suspicions to raise further. Twilight was now certain that something was up with Rarity. "Moving on..." Rarity chuckled slightly, Twilight knew that Rarity could often get a tad emotional when lying and more so when she lies to her friends. However Twilight could not figure out why but just like all the other little things she had noticed, she let it go past without question.
Twilight and Rarity remained in the house while they waited for the rain to pass. They shared lunch and dinner, all the time Twilight was trying to figure out Rarity's rather odd behavior. While Twilight didn't understand it, it was easy for Twilight to pick up on it. The odd shuffle, nervous chuckle, staring at Twilight and then day dreaming with a content look on her face and Twilight was sure that she caught Rarity staring at her flank a few times. However just like the other times, Twilight ignored it and continued on with the day.
Once the rain had stopped it was getting late, while Twilight was certain she had no duties she felt the need to check up on Spike and to make sure the castle had not burned down. Twilight bid Rarity farewell and made her way back to the castle. Much to Twilight surprise, the castle was still standing and not on fire. Twilight entered through large double door and was greeted by the greeter.
"Princess Sparkle, welcome back. I trust your day was satisfactory?" The greeter said as he greeted Twilight.
"Aside from the poor weather, I enjoyed it. Has Spike been well behaved?" Twilight replied.
"The young Master Spike has... Behaved to and extent." The greeter replied nervously. "Their was an incident when he attempted to access the freezer in an attempt to gather some ice-cream. However the guard was able to send him on his way."
"Ha! I knew putting a guard by the freezer would stop him! Waste of taxpayers bits indeed!" Twilight chuckled. The greeter smiled warmly at Twilight and Twilight made her way towards the kitchen.
The kitchen was clean, given that under normal circumstances the kitchen was mess when Spike raided the freezer. By the freezer a lone guard stood, keeping an eye out for possible intruders. The guard saluted when he saw Twilight. "Princess!"
"At ease soldier." Twilight stated. "Status report?"
"The ice has remained unbroken and no sign of global warming!" The guard reported sternly.
"Good, very good. I will ensure that ozone is enforced and global warming is settled by twenty-hundred hours." Twilight replied.
"Very well Princess. Shall I remain?" The guard asked.
"You have done well, go see your family. You are dismissed for the day." Twilight said happily. The guard broke his posture and smiled at Twilight. The guard ran out of the kitchen and Twilight followed him out. The guard headed for the door, however Twilight went to the main room. Spike was sat down in front of the fireplace, with crossed arms. "Spike, what have I said about ice-cream while I'm not here?"
Spike sighed and turned away. Twilight sighed, Spike was like this every time Twilight went out, he would try and raid the freezer only to get stopped by the guard. Don't eat ice-cream while you're not here..." Spike mumbled.
"Good, and do you know why that is Spike?" Twilight replied sternly.
"Because it gives me a tummy ache..." Spike mumbled again, the dragon turned and looked at the clock and then got up. "Well Twilight, I am going to bed." Spike said spitefully, he then left the room leaving Twilight alone. Twilight sighed, it was early but she had nothing to do except go to sleep and wait for tomorrow.
Twilight's dream was similar to the one she had the previous night, she was sorting through books and looking at the odd title. Twilight signed, something felt different a strange tension in her dream. However before Twilight could put any thought into it Luna gracefully landed in the dream. "Young Twilight, how goes your quest for love?" Luna bellowed, making her arrive obvious to anypony dreaming nearby.
"Well Princess. I have made progress..." Twilight started.
"Ah, progress. Tell us what you have found." Luna interrupted.
"Well, I have found out that I am attracted to mares." Twilight bluntly stated. "I also found out that somepony close to me has the same views."
"Ha! Just as I predicted. A certain Princess owes me a few hundred bits..." Luna chuckled before returning her attention back to Twilight. "So Twilight, tell us who this pony is."
"It is Rarity... But she has been acting strange recently and I don't know what to make of it. Like earlier, she blatantly lied to me when I asked if she knew any other mares that were into mares. Plus she kept losing track of what she was saying and I could have sworn she was starting at my flank! What could it mean?" Twilight frustratingly said, completely unaware of how clear it was.
"Well Twilight, it sounds like Lady Rarity is rather smitten by you." Luna stated smugly. "I'm sure if Cadance was here she would have been able to tell you quicker, but it does sound like she has fallen for you."
"Bu-Bu-But!" Twilight stuttered, it took her a few moments to come to the same conclusion Luna had. "How did I not notice!?" Twilight said. "Its so obvious..." Twilight fell to the floor of her dream, Luna gently stroked Twilight to comfort her. "Urgh, I need to get more sociable. Anypony would have seen the signs."
"It is alright Twilight, we shall go speak to Rarity and see if we cannot get to the bottom of this little mishap." Luna said happily, knowing how easy it would be to smooth things over between the two, considering their wasn't much wrong with them. Luna smiled warmly at Twilight and then left her dream, luckily for her Rarity had recently gone to sleep. Luna traversed the dreamscape until she arrived at Rarity's dream.
Rarity's dream was slightly more chaotic then normal, a dark aura permeated it, a sign that the dreamer was suffering from guilt. Rarity herself was lying in a bed in the center of the dark aura, even more evidence to prove that her lies and concealment of her feels had made her feel guilty. Luna cut through the thick aura and landed next to Rarity, who barely noticed her.
After an unsettling landing Luna decided it was best to go straight to the heart of the matter. "She knows how you feel and she hates herself for not noticing." Luna said in a monotone voice. Rarity rolled over in the bed, she was slightly teary . "You can sort this, all you have to do is visit her."
"But what if she doesn't like me in that way?" Rarity said, doubting herself. "What if..."
"Silence!" Luna bellowed. "If she does not feel the same way, why does she beat herself up for not noticing?"
"Because... She is Twilight, she prides herself on knowing almost everything! Not being able to pick up on my feelings must have hurt her pride..." Rarity despaired, Luna was able to pick up on the negative emotions that were coming from Rarity. Luna lit up her horn and dragged Rarity out of her dream and into Twilight's dream. Twilight's dream was a bit more of a mess, piles of books were everywhere and Twilight was frantically running from bookcase to bookcase.
"See how she runs back and forth? She is trying to find the answers." Luna pointed out, Rarity watched Twilight demolish a bookcase searching for an unknown book. "Go talk to her, see if you can undo this." Before Rarity could question Luna, she vanished from the dream. Leaving Rarity in Twilight's dream.
Morning, Canterlot
Luna had just finished her rounds, the dreamscape had been uneventful save the little hiccup with Twilight and Rarity. Luna headed towards the dinning room and joined her sister who was eating breakfast. Celestia finished her mouthful and waited for Luna to sit down before speaking. "So Luna, how was the night?"
"It was normal, uninteresting..." Luna trailed off before realizing what Celestia had implemented. "As for Rarity and Twilight, nothing was ever simple about them so I did not expect to not encounter problems."
"Oh, what happened?" Celestia inquired.
"Twilight had visited Rarity during a storm, Twilight told Rarity she was into mares. Rarity then lied to Twilight about know any other mares who were into mares... Am I going at an alright speed sister?" Luna paused and Celestia nodded. "The they spent the day together doing normal things. Then, during Rarity's dream she felt upset because she lied to Twilight and Twilight felt like a bad friend on not picking up on how Rarity felt. The two were wallowing in their own grief until I pulled Rarity out of her dream and put her in Twilight's, what they did after that I do not know..."
"Ah Luna... Cadance has taught me many things about love. Without emotional manipulation it is never plain sailing." Celestia happily said. "Just give them time, I am sure they will eventually sort something out."
"I certainly hope so sister, they would make such a cute couple." Luna said sighing slightly. "I will check up on them after I raise the moon again, for now I need a long rest."
Author's Note
More cheesy chapter to come...
