A Friend Lost to the Pastby sniper125ChaptersA Friend Lost to the PastA Love Gained from the PresentA Life Created for the FutureA Bond Strengthened Through TimeA Problem Left UnsolvedA Time for Growing FriendshipA Friend Lost to the PastA Friend Lost to the Past "Eeew run guys or Zecora might get you!" A small group of fillies yelled and screamed as they ran in every direction from the small black and grey zebra. Zecora simply sighed and trudged home while everypony else regrouped to go home together. She always wondered what it was like to have a friend, what would they look like? Would they be thin and tall or thick and small? Would they be fun and cheery or dark and dreary? These thoughts always found their way into her mind despite her efforts to keep those false dreams from hurting her. "Watch out!" Zecora looked up and jumped backwards just in time for a bright blue colt to zoom by on a miniature scooter. The scooter twisted and turned until the blue pony was sent flying over the handle bars and into a nearby bush. Zecora hurried to the bush and helped him out of the now destroyed shrub. "Are you alright? That was a hard crash you had." "Yeah, I'm still learning so I'm used to it." The colt scratched the back of his head and laughed. "My name's Krooked Bass, nice to meet ya'!" Zecora stared at his outstretched hoof with an open mouth. "What's wrong? Do your people not shake hooves?" "No! It's just... why would you want to shake hooves with me?" Nopony was ever nice to Zecora so she simply assumed nopony would ever care to greet her properly. "Well, you seem like a nice filly and you helped me so I thought I'd show you my gratitude. It seems simple enough to me." Seeing that he was serious Zecora hesitantly touched his hoof and shook it. "What's your name anyways?" "Umm Z-Zecora..." "That's a pretty name." Zecora turned to hide the blush that was growing on her cheeks when Krooked asked something she never thought she would hear. "Hey, if you're not doing anything would you like to come play with me?" He looked down and kicked a pebble as he asked. "S-sure! What do you want to do?" "Well, do you want to go play at the playground?" He scratched his chin in thought. Zecora merely nodded in a daze before being pulled onto the scooter and the next thing she knew they were buzzing down the street with the power of Krooked's small blue wings. As they rode towards the park Zecora watched the focused look on Krooked's as the wind blew his long, red, and white mane back. It wasn't long before they arrived at the playground. To Zecora's dismay a group of rowdy filly colts sat on the swing set. They all looked her way and started trotting over to them both. "What do you think you're doing here zebra? We don't want you damn witches around here!" Zecora shivered and stepped back behind Krooked who stood tall and looked their apparent leader in the eye. "Cool it bro, we just want to enjoy ourselves. We won't bother anypony." The entire group laughed at him which seemed to make his muscles tense up. "Look at this fellas! Little Miss Witch was able to brainwash somepony! Look punk, if you stay friends with her than you're no better than that damn bi-" His outburst was interrupted by a hoof to the face as Krooked tackled him to the ground and held him down with his other hoof. "You leave Zecora alone! I don't care who you are but nopony messes with my friend!" Zecora simply stared until Krooked released the colt who scampered off with his crew in tow. "I'm sorry you had to see that, those guys just piss me off to no end!" "N-nopony's ever stood up for me before... Why did you do that for me?" Tears began to form in the corners of Zecora's eyes. "I don't know, something inside me just didn't want to see you hurt..." She fell to the ground and began crying soft tears of happiness. "Thank you..." Krooked sat down beside her and threw his arm over her shoulders. "Don't worry about it. I promise not to let those bullies treat you that way ever again. It goes against what I believe in!" "What is that?" Zecora sniffed while feeling curious. "Do not judge the cover of the book..." 3 Years Later... "Come on Zecora, if we don't hurry we won't get to see the Phoenix become reborn!" Zecora sighed and began running to catch up with a now teenage size Krooked Bass. "Don't worry Krooked, they aren't supposed to change until dusk. We'll have plenty of time when we get there." They both stopped so Zecora could catch her breath. "Alright, I guess we can slow down a little for you." He slowed his pace so that they were side by side. "Thanks, sorry I'm not as athletic as you are." "No problem, sometimes it's nice to slow down and enjoy the forest with a friend..." He pulled an mp3 player out of his bag and turned on a gentle melody. He then turned up a pair of round, black headphones that seemed to have become his trademark accessory. "I love this song..." Zecora moved slightly closer so that she could hear the song better. "Yeah, it just makes you want to sit back and unwind... But that'll have to wait until we reach the forest!" Krooked smiled and began to speed up to a fast trot as they entered the dense shrubbery. "Alright we're here!" Declared Zecora as she pulled a blanket out of her own saddlebag and laid it on the ground." "Are you sure? I don't see the Phoenixes anywhere." Krooked began spinning around in search until Zecora stopped him in front of a particular group of trees. Five trees each had a nest that held a small family of Phoenixes. Their bright red feathers were ruffled and falling off every second as their rebirth approached. "It's amazing how something so sickly looking is actually a beautiful art of nature..." Zecora laid her head on Krooked's shoulder as they watched the sun set in anticipation. Right when their was only a small sliver of sun left Krooked put another dynamic beat that seemed to flow perfectly with the scene. The last ray of sunlight faded but was replaced with the glow of every Phoenix bursting into a dazzling display of sparks and flames. The creatures remained where they were and waited as their remaining feathers burned away and the flames then began eating at their skin as if it was paper. The display continued until finally all that remained was small piles of ash in every nest. Some nests had only one lump while others held groups of three or four. If Zecora didn't know better it would have been a very depressing scene. The two ponies sat in wait until another flash of light shined throughout the entire forest as each ash pile exploded. Zecora looked up where a brand new flock of Phoenixes soared to and fro to get out any dust and stretch their reborn muscles. Each one seemed to glow with it's own light source as their dark red feathers blended with the bright yellows like the fire of a lit torch. "It's so beautiful Krooked... Thank you for this..." "It nothing, I wanted to see them anyways." Krooked replied bluntly. "No, I mean thank you for everything..." "Everything?" "Everything you've done for me since we met. You were my first friend ever and you protected me from everything from the very beginning... Whenever somepony tried to hurt me you scared them away and we've done everything together. I'll never forget that. I think that..." Krooked sat up straight and looked Zecora in the eye. "I think t-that I love you!" She exclaimed and pounced on Krooked for a kiss. He tensed up from the sudden tackle but he relaxed instantly and returned the kiss. They reluctantly broke apart for breath after around a minute. "Zecora, I've always loved you... you don't know how much this means to me." Tears of happiness began to trickle down Zecora's cheek as she was brought in for another kiss... "Krooked, I want you to be my first. Can you please accept my gift?" "Of course, I wouldn't want anypony else to have it." He replied and lightly kissed Zecora's neck before slowly moving down her body. As he did so Krooked made sure to feel every inch of Zecora's body. Her soft, smooth coat laid flat against her slim figure that curved into a large, round flank. Muffled moans escaped through Zecora's lips as Krooked rubbed her inner thighs. She had tried some things on her own but it was nothing compared to being tended to by the one she loved. Krooked smiled when he came across her little pink slit that was surrounded by tufts of black and white striped fur. She was already warm and wet with anticipation when he gently stroked her lips with his hoof. "Hmm, you're already so wet. Do you play with yourself when you're alone?" Zecora's face became hot with embaressment but it seemed to heighten her pleasure. "Y-yeah..." He smirked and sped up the stroking. "Do you think of me when you do it?" Her moans grew louder. "Yesss!" "Guess what?" He brought his head up so he could whisper into her ear. Her breath was growing ragged. "I think of you too." Her limit was finally reached as an enormous wave of ecstasy broke her mental flood gates and covered all other thoughts. "Krooked... that was incredible..." She breathed heavily into his ear. "We're not even close to done my little zebra." He then surprised Zecora with a lick to her nether lips which earned him a shudder. "Mmm, delicious." Zecora's blush grew darker. "Don't say things like that... it's embarrassing." "I only say what's the truth." He smirked and continued to to lick while gently rubbing her tiny nub to turn her already slurred speach into full blown moans. She then rested her hooves on his head to help his tongue deeper into her aching hole. Sweat began mixing with her other fluids as her second climax approached ever so closely. It wasnt long before Krooked noticed her breathing speed up so to give the final blow he pulled out his tongue and vigorously licked her clit while still rubbing her pussy with his hoof. Within minutes Zecora couldn't hold it in any longer as she nearly screamed in pleasure from her second climax. Her back arched up as her juices flowed freely into Krooked's mouth who lapped it up like candy. Once her high had subsided Zecora fell back to the ground in a pool of sweat and cum. Krooked allowed her a few minutes of rest before moving back to where they were face to face. "Are you ready for the real thing?" She simply nodded and kissed him. "Just be a little gentle at first..." He smiled and kissed her back while positioning his dick at her still soaked entrance. Once he had found his spot he pulled her close and slowly slipped passed her entrance, eliciting a cry of pleasure. Krooked groaned from the tightness of her virgin walls being spread open with every inch deeper he went. Eventually his dick came within contact of what had to have been her hymen. "Are you sure you're ready for this?" She nodded again without hesitation, her eyes locked with his as he reeled back and slammed past her wall. She let out another yelp that was muffled when she brought her face into the fur on Krooked's chest. They lyed there for what felt like an eternity while Zecora readjusted to Krooked's size. They made eye contact again to show she was ready. Krooked slowly out until only his tip was in. He then thrusted back in to go even further than he did before. Zecora cried again but it was more of pleasure than pain. Krooked kissed her cheek and continued to thrust in and out. Moans radiated throughout the forest as flesh clashed with flesh. "Krooked... I think... I'm going to cum!" Zecora gasped right before said climax wracked her body for a final time. Krooked grunted as her walls clenched his stallionhood like a vice that continued to pull him in. "Zecora... I'm almost there too!" "Oh please do it inside! I want to feel us became truly one!" As if by command Krooked thrusted in as deep as he could and began covering her insides with his sticky cum. Zecora pulled him in even more as her womb continued to be filled. Krooked soon collapsed on top of her in a sweaty heap. Krooked rolled off quickly but still held her hoof as they laid there. He watched as her chest gently moved up and down with each breath she took from the past actions. "That was so amazing Krooked... I'm so happy you were my first..." He just grinned at her before replying. "I didn't want some loser taking you away from me..." He laughed and brought her into a soft embrace as they began dozing off into the dark abyss of sleep... Two Weeks Later... "Get away from him you witch! We won't let you ruin our boy's mind!" Krooked's mother yelled and shoved Zecora into the street. Everypony merely stared with wide eyes as Krooked ran to her side. His mother had never known that they were meeting for this very reason. They both decided to introduce Zecora to her but the result was far from what they had expected. "Leave her alone Mom! She hasn't done anything to me or anyone else!" "But my daughter followed her into the Everfree Forest and she came back covered in sores and cuts!" A random pink mare exclaimed which caused the crowd to gasp. "That's it! Come , we were going to wait to tell you but we're leaving NOW. Pack your bags!" Zecora and Krooked's eyes went wide with horror at what they had heard. Tears began to form in Zecora's eyes. "No... No... Please don't go Krooked! I can't survive here without you!" She buried her head into Krooked's chest while sobbing. Krooked shook his head to refocus himself before holding her like he'd never held her before. "Shh... listen Zecora, I had no idea this was happening. But I promise I'll come back as soon as I possibly can. I need you to stay strong until then. Can you do that." Her sobbing stopped suddenly as she looked up to him with still teary eyes. She leaned in and kissed him one last time before he was torn away from her and pulled into the house. In a matter of a few minutes the reason for her life had been ripped away from her like the petal of a flower with but one leaf... Three Months Later... Zecora sat on a makeshift carpet in a hollowed out tree that she called home. Though 'home' was the last thing it felt like to her. Without her love life itself seemed to deny her comfort. "Oh Krooked Bass... What I'd give to see your face... For I am all alone... In this dreary place..." Tears began to form once again as she stared at a small photo of her lost love. Small droplets splattered against the plastic cover as her sobs filled the empty house for almost the thirtieth time. He had promised her that he would return, but what if he couldn't? What if something had happened so that he simply wouldn't? Two Years Later... Zecora examined the various bottles and containers that filled her new shelves that lined her naturally decorated living room. She smiled when her eyes spotted their target: a small green jar of pickled Blazing Vine for her experimental brew. She had no idea what would happen but she mixed the smashed red plant into a large cauldron of many other ingredients. To her surprise the mostly clear liquid turned pink instantly and a large poof of pink smoke rose up in the shape of a heart. Her amazement was soon replaced with sadness as old memories resurfaced... Zecora had never given up hope and even learned to cope with her grief but every passing day seemed more and more painful as she waited for his return. She sighed and began to pour the liquid down a drain when a knock came from the front door. She never had received a visitor before. It was probably some joker who felt like giving her a good tease... She shrugged and put the cauldron down and trudged to the front door. Without looking through the peephole she swung the door open with her eyes to the ground. "If you're here to threaten me then just..." She stopped midsentence when a set of blue hooves came into view. Now she had seen plenty of blue ponies in her life but only one colt had such a deep shaded coat like that. "Zecora? I told you I'd be back..." The End Hmm I might do a sequel if I can figure out how that would work... If you like Zecora than get ready for some more of her! A Love Gained from the PresentA Love Gained From the Present "K-Krooked? Is it really you?" Zecora stared in shock at the now full-sized Krooked Bass. "Of course it is... Let me prove I'm real!" As he spoke Zecora was pulled into a tight embrace followed by a deep kiss. They stood there for what felt like an eternity. The almost forgotten taste of his tongue enveloped Zecora's eyes became wet with tears as they separated. She instantly buried her head into his shoulder and cried tears of joy. Krooked just closed his eyes and stroked her mane with a smile. "I wasn't sure if you'd come back... I thought you had forgotten about me..." "Of course not! Every moment I thought about the day I would see you again. Let's go inside for now." Zecora nodded and led Krooked throughout her home until they reached a sitting area occupied by a small dining table with two seats. Zecora motioned for him to sit while she made some tea from a small table stocked with various bags of dried leaves. Once the tea was brewing over a small stove that stood next to the counter she sat back down. "This is a nice little home you have here Zecora. I'm glad you did well on your own. But what are all these bottles for?" Their eye contact broke when she looked down at the ground. "T-they're for potions... I gather things around the forest and try to find mixtures that could help if anypony got hurt while exploring. I'm still learning so I don't have many that work." "That's incredible! What kinds of things can you cure?" Krooked's eyes sparkled with wonder. "Just some simple antidotes to things like Poison Joke and Ivy. But what do you do now?" He grinned with pride and pointed at his cutie mark which was a set of headphones laying on top of a turntable. "I've been DJ'ing around Equestria on my way here. My friend Vinyl is still touring right now but I told I'm stopping here... for good..." "I'm so happy for you Krooked, but what will you do if you stay here? I don't want you to give up your dream for me..." He placed a hoof on her lips for silence. "Zecora, music is my talent, not my dream. My dream is to be with you..." He leaned over the table and kissed her lightly on the cheek. "By the way, the tea is ready." Zecora jumped and hurried to pour the steaming tea. She added a large cube of ice from a small box lined with a special fabric for chilling. She placed both cups on the table and waited for hers to cool. Krooked took a long sip of his before speaking. "So how has the town been treating you?" "Oh you know... they just avoid me and I avoid them the most I can." "Well that won't do! If they haven't come to their senses yet than there's no better time than now!" As he said that he grabbed Zecora right after she had finished her tea and led her out the door. "Wait, Krooked! I don't think this is a good idea!" "Nonsense, their attitude is getting on my last nerve! After all this time those bastards still... come on!" Zecora went silent the rest of the way to the town square... "Eek! It's Zecora! Run, hide, protect your children!" The townsfolk scattered in every direction as the couple approached. By the time they were in the middle every door had been locked and nearly every window had it's shutters closed. Krooked sighed and trotted over to the closest house. He knocked constantly until a bright blue Pegasus with an even brighter mane opened up. "What do you want Krooked? Why are you still with the witch?" Krooked peered past her and noticed a group of around six ponies huddled together. "Look Flitter, can you please just come outside? This mass hysteria is getting tiresome. I promise you that it's safe." She looked around with hesitation but nodded and followed Krooked to where Zecora had been waiting. "Zecora, meet Flitter. She's an old friend from school. Flitter, this is Zecora. She's been my friend since school as well." "N-nice to meet you Flitter." Zecora slowly offered her hoof with a nervous smile. "Umm likewise..." Flitted returned the hoofshake with an equally nervous smile. "Alright, now that you know each other's names you should know that Zecora is NOT a witch." "But then what do you do in the forest all of the time? Why do you place curses on anypony who follows you and what's with the cloak?" "I live in the forest because nopony wants me to live in the city and I don't curse ponies. All their illnesses are caused by the many poisonous plants in the forest. The cloak protects me from most of them. Plus, the only thing I do that's close to witchcraft is make antidotes for various ailments." Flitter went wide-eyed and facehoofed herself in shame. Flitter immediately went to her home and forced the group inside out. They to felt immense shame when they learned about the truth. Soon the entire town stood in a circle around the three ponies with heads bowed in apology. Out of seemingly no where the newly elected Mayor Mare stepped up to Zecora. "Miss Zecora, I hope you accept our towns deepest apologies for everything that you have endured. We'd be happy to call you a citizen of Ponyville." She beamed at Zecora with an outstretched hoof which she accepted with a blush. The crowd instantly rushed up to Zecora with many questions about who she was and what antidotes she had but they were quickly stopped by Krooked and Flitter. "Alright everypony, I'm sure we'll be back but for now I need to take Zecora back home. This has been a very exciting day for everypony." The crowd let out complains but Flitter motioned for them to leave as well. "You heard him everypony, it's time we get on home so they can get some rest." They let out a collective sigh but dispersed all the same. "Feel free to stop by my house some time Zecora for a little chat." Flitter smiled before beading back to her home. "It's getting pretty late Krooked, you can stay at my house if you like." He simply smiled and kissed her on the cheek. "I'd like nothing more..." Zecora nuzzled his neck as they strolled down the trail. Each branch seemed to intertwine with each other into a makeshift archway. What little suight remained threaded itself between each branch like a needle through fabric, creating a web of shadows with strands that thickened as they made their way farther in. "I've never really noticed but the forest hasn't changed much since the night we watched the Phoenixes turn. If there wasn't so many dangers I bet everypony would love to visit it." "Well maybe Celestia made the forest like that so only we could enjoy its true beauty." Zecora giggled at him and kissed his cheek as they approached her home. "Thanks again for taking me in Zecora." "Think nothing of it, of course I'd let the one I love stay with me!" She kissed him again before he opened the front door and let her inside. "To tell you the truth I don't feel like sleeping yet." Zecora hopped on her bed and patted the spot beside her. "Who said anything about sleep yet? If you're up to it I feel like making up for all of that lost time..." A smirk grew on Krooked's face before be became a blue and red blur when he jumped on the bed as well. Zecora giggled when a flurry of kisses pelted her cheek and neck. Suddenly their lips met for an extended kiss. Their tongues intertwined, locking together in a loving embrace much like the rest of their bodies... Small gasps escaped Zecora when a hoof could be felt brushing her cutie mark and caressing her flank. Her face went red when Krooked's hoof then moved to inside her thighs. A quiet squish could be heard as he rubbed the already wet folds of her marehood. She backed away when he tried to move down so that he was eye to eye. "What's wrong Zecora? You don't like it when I do that?" She shook her head quickly. "I was hoping I c-could try something first..." She began to gently rub his package as she spoke. He let out a shudder as his member grew with every stroke of her hoof. She used slow, gentle movements in a way to tease him into a slow climax. "Zecora... Where did you learn such a thing?" "What, are you saying I don't have enough sense to know what you like?" "I didn't SAY that..." He smirked again in an attempt to egg her on. It seemed to have worked as she huffed and began to slide her mouth over his tip. Krooked sighed as he watched Zecora's delicate lips begin to spread apart as she took in more and more of his length. Due to her lack of experience it wasn't long before Zecora had reached her limit. Once she could go no further Zecora back almost completely out but thrusted back down with greater force. She continued to bob her head up and down his shaft while Krooked leaned back and enjoyed the attention he was receiving. He wished the feeling could last forever but an almost forgotten sensation began to appear in the back of his mind. Krooked instantly sat up and bad Zecora stop. "What's wrong Krooked?" "Nothing, I'm just getting close. Are you ready for the main deal?" She blushed at the blunt question but nodded all the same. Krooked carefully scooted over so Zecora could lay her head on the pillows. He then positioned himself so that he was right on top of her with his stallionhood at her enterance. Zecora was a little nervous considering how long it had been but a gentle kiss from the blue colt she loved quelled all doubt that he would hurt her. Her breathing turned to moaning as the large member slid itself into her aching hole. Her walls began to convulse and squeeze his dick as if they were already milking him dry. Krooked knew better though and began to pump in and out so that she couldn't get a firm grasp of him to slow the pleasure. They continued this pattern of in-out until Zecora could feel a pressure building up inside of her. Before she knew how to respond the pressure exploded in a wave of ecstasy. Every muscle she had began to tense up as her climax washed over her body and seemed to move through Krooked's body as well. His limit wasn't much farther as he too began to tense up and his thrusts went further and further inside. By the time his climax arrived his tip was just barely hitting the enterance to her womb. Screams of ecstasy rang throughout the small home as Zecora's womb was filled to the brim with the sticky love juices of her lover. Her walls continued to clench around him as she continued to milk him until neither had any energy left. Krooked laid down next to Zecora who gave him a loving kiss on the cheek. They wrapped their forelegs around each other once Krooked pulled the blankets over the both of them. "That was incredible Krooked, I didn't think you would make me feel so good." "I aim to please, I think I'm going to stay here with you from now on." He kissed her on the cheek again and pulled her head under his chin. "If that's what you want, I just want you to be happy. You deserve that much." "I already am..." A Life Created for the FutureA Life Created for the Future A Few Days Later... Krooked awoke to the sound of Zecora crying in the bathroom. Concerned, he gently knocked on the partially open door. "Are you alright Zecora? Do you need me to help?" Her reply was the sound of vomiting. He instantly swung the door open to find Zecora hugging the toilet while sobbing. "I don't know what's wrong Krooked... I-I just felt sick all of a s-sudden." He kneeled down and gently rubbed her back with his hoof. "Do you think you need a doctor? Just to be make sure it isn't serious?" "I suppose, i must have been careless the last time I was out..." Doctor Whooves' Office...(:3) "Well, I've never worked on a zebra before but from what you've already told me and the tests we took..." the brown stallion spoke with a hint of excitement. "What is it Whooves? Don't give us that suspense crap." Krooked replied sternly. "Well fine if you're gonna be that way... Zecora's pregnant." Both of their jaws went slack at the blunt statement that practically changed their lives. "W-what? Krooked what are we-?" "Thank you doctor, we'll be going now. Is it alright if we pay later?" "Don't worry about that right now, you two go on home." Doctor Whooves smiled and waved as the couple left with blank stares. Zecora's House... "Krooked... What do we do?" Zecora asked in a slightly panicked voice. Krooked simply sat in silence as if in intense thought. The lack of a response made Zecora fidget in her seat. "Krooked! Krooked!" "I don't know alright!" Krooked shot out of his seat and began to pace around the room. Zecora flinched at the outburst. "I'm sorry Zecora, I'm just surprised how quickly it happened..." Krooked sat back down and laid his head on the table. "I know it's hard to take in but we need to think of what we're going to do." "You're right... I'm sorry I'm not taking this as well as I should. I didn't think I would be a father so soon." Zecora pulled a chair next to him and pulled herself into a hug. "It's alright Krooked, I don't know anypony who could take this news without ANY emotion." Krooked smiled at her and gave her a kiss. "Speaking of other ponies. Maybe you should go tell Flitter the news!" Zecora fidgeted in her seat at the mention of going to town on her own. "Don't worry, Flitter is a good mare. I'm sure she'd be happy to help you with this!" Zecora relaxed a little before finally deciding to head out to Ponyville. "I'll be there to talk with you girls in a little while. I still have some things I'm expecting to arrive soon. Zecora nodded and made her way back into town with a slightly better attitude... Flitter's House... 'Alright Zecora, you can do this!' Zecora took a deep breath and gently knocked on the door. "Just a minute!" The familiar voice of Flitter could be heard on the other side. After less than a minute the door suddenly opened to reveal the bright blue maned mare. "Zecora! I wasn't expecting to see you so soon. What can I do for you?" Zecora kicked the ground Amex looked down. "I-I was hoping we could talk about something..." The blue pony gave her a quizzical look. "Sure thing, come on in!" A Few Minutes Later... "Pregnant?! Zecora that's so amazing! Congratulations!" Flitter rushed to where Zecora was sitting and gave her a hug. "I cant believe you're going to be parents so soon!" "We can't believe it either. I'm a little nervous about the whole thing though... What if we're not ready to become parents? I mean we just got back together about a week ago!" The young zebra tensed up at the thought of something causing her love to leave. However a gentle hoof on her shoulder brought Zecora back to the real world. "It'll be alright Zecora. I know Krooked and I'm sure he'll never leave your side... and I bet you'll be a great parent. The fact you were able to forgive the entire town after a lifetime of being mistreated is proof that you are kind enough to be a parent." Flitter smiled cheerfully and gave Zecora a pat on the back. "Would you like something to drink Zecora? If it's alright with you I'd like to get to know you a little better!" "Oh um, tea is just fine... and I'd love to talk." Glitter nodded and happily trotted into the kitchen with Zecora close behind. "So tell me about yourself Zecora." "What would you like to know?" "Anything, like where are your parents? I never saw them when we were little." Zecora's eyes went to the floor at the mention of her parents. "I'm sorry, you don't have to tell me if you don't want to." "No it's fine... It's actually a pretty simple story. When I was a filly I was exploring the forest with my parents for their research. I didn't know what they were looking for so I was just running around and playing. But as I ran I tripped on what felt like a root..." Zecora's eyes turned soft as she continued. "... But it turned out to not be a root at all. When I looked back I heard a loud roar and a weird beast jumped out of the nearby brush. It was very peculiar as it had the body of a reptile but the head of a... Chicken? I still don't know what it was but my body began to slow down and I began feeling very heavy. I thought is was going to kill me but my parents appeared in front of me. I tried to ask what the monster was but they yelled for me to run. So I did... I ran and ran until I found myself right outside my front door. There I waited until night fall for my parents to arrive. But they never did... I went to town to get help but nopony wanted to help the daughter of a witch or a "warlock"... I went to see if I could find them myself, but when I found the place where I last saw them... There was just a small pile of dust..." A small tear trickled down Zecora's face before a small breakdown wracked her body. Flitter hurried back to Zecora's side and pulled her close, gently petting her mane as they sat. "It's alright Zecora... I'm so sorry, we should have helped you but we didn't... But you must stay strong now more than ever. What if your child want's to know about her grandparent's I don't think she wants to know how painful it was for you to lose the only ponies you cared about at that age." Zecora sniffed and looked Flitter in the eye. "You're right... thanks Flitter." Zecora smiled and nuzzled her new friend. "No problem, now looks like we have some planning to do!" Flitter offered to help Zecora to her bedroom but Zecora declined with a smile. The two made their way upstairs and down a small hall where small doors lined the wall. Flitter stopped at a particular door and held the knob but didn't open it. "Cloudchaser are you awake? I have a friend you should meet." The door swung open to reveal a pony that looked very similar to Flitter save for her much more wild manestyle. "Flitter, you know I don't like waking from my naps. Who's the friend?" She looked between Flitter and Zecora before realizing who the friend was. "Zecora! What are you doing here?" Flitter stepped in front of Zecora before she could reply. "She's here because there's some great news!" Cloudchaser just yawned and made room for them to enter. "What is she having a baby or something?" To Be Continued... A Bond Strengthened Through TimeA Bond Strengthened with Time "Oh Celestia, I wasn't serious!" Cloud Chaser laughed and patted Zecora on the back which caused the young zebra to flinch slightly. "Zecora, this is Cloud Chaser. We've worked together for the past... five years I think?" Flitter looked at Cloud Chaser who simply nodded to confirm it. "Wait your not sisters? But you look so alike." Zecora's face went pink when the pair laughed to each other. "Everypony always thinks that when they meet us. But no, we're just just good friends." "Really good friends." Cloud Chaser winked playfully at Flitter to bring out some color from her cheeks. Zecora simply tried to ignore the gesture and nodded with understanding while making her way inside when Cloud Chaser stepped aside. "So what can I do for you two? I don't know much about foals and this kinds of things." "We just felt like talking, Zecora's a little nervous and I thought you'd like to be her friend!" "Well sure! Take a seat wherever you like I'm sure we'll have a swell time!" Some Time Later... "... and that's how Cloud Chaser got that scar on her flank!" Zecora and Flitter giggled as Cloud Chaser covered the mentioned mark on her upper thigh. "Alright laugh it up, but just wait till I tell you-" Cloud Chaser stopped when the doorbell rang. "Oh I'll get it!" Flitted hurried out with a blush while Cloud Chaser remained seated next to Zecora with an amused smirk. "What's she so embarrassed about?" "Oh nothing, maybe I'll tell you another time." Cloud Chaser chuckled as Flitter returned, her face brighter and the blush gone. "Krooked's here Zecora." "Oh alright, I'll be right down!" Zecora stood up quickly and went downstairs with a subtle skip in her step. Krooked took a seat on the couch when Zecora pounced on him for a hug. She giggled as she kissed him on the cheek. "What was that for Zecora?" Krooked asked with a chuckle. Zecora leaned in close to his ear so nopony could hear her. "You were right Krooked! Flitter and Cloud Chaser have been so nice to me all day!" She whispered with a large smile. Krooked simply hugged her back. "I told you they'd make good friends! But where are-" Krooked was interrupted by giggling coming from the kitchen. "Aww look at them Cloud! Aren't they just adorable?" The two mares stuck their heads out from behind the door frame and giggled like little school fillies. "We might have to head back upstairs lest things start to get steamy!" Their giggles turned into full blown laughter when they noticed Zecora's face turn scarlet, Krooked simply smirked and pulled her closer to him. "That doesn't sound like a bad idea. What do you think Zecora?" He got a reply in the form of a sudden push as Zecora jumped off of him. "N-no! Just please come in." Zecora tried to fight the blush that continued to grow on her cheeks. "So what brings you by Krooked?" Flitted asked while taking a seat in a chair beside Cloud Chaser. "I was Just stopping by to see how Zecora is doing with making friends." "Did you have any doubts about us becoming friends? Zecora has been wonderful to get to know! She always has interesting stories to tell!" Zecora smiled and sat down next to Krooked once again. "She's right Krooked, they've both been wonderful! I never knew making friends was so much fun!" "Well there's plenty of ponies in Ponyville to make more friends with!" Krooked wrapped his foreleg around her neck and pulled her close. "But before we look for more I was hoping you would come home with me. I have something for you!" Zecora gave him a curious look. "Go on Zecora! Flitter and I'll see you soon so go hang with your little coltfriend!" Cloud Chaser poked her with a grin. "Well alright, let's go Krooked!" The couple stood up simultaneously and made their way out the door. They both waved while make their way back to the forest... Zecora's Home... "So what was it you wanted to show me?" Zecora tried to look over Krooked's shoulder when he opened a box that must have arrived with his things. He leaned in closer to block her view. "It's something I found while on tour. I was browsing through a market in St. Equinas when this I notice this little old lady that sat behind the counter of one of the smaller stalls. She had a lot of random things for sale but when I laid eyes on this I just had to get it for you!" At that Krooked turned around and held out a necklace. It had a simple design, small wooden beads hung on a thin leather string with a large wooden pendant. The pendant had a symbol etched into the front that resembled Zecora's Cutie Mark but had the form of a moon instead of a sun. Zecora's eyes sparkled as she took the necklace into her hooves. The polished trinket glistened in the light as Krooked proceeded to put it on her. "This is beautiful Krooked! It means so much that you thought of me enough to get this!" She gave him a hug once it was around her neck. "I always thought about you... and I still do. Every time I went into a city I searched for something that I could give you as a gift. There were so many beautiful pieces that I knew would look wonderful on you but this necklace just reminded me so much of you that I just had to get it!" He smiled and gave Zecora a peck on the cheek. She returned it with a deeper kiss instead. "It makes me happy to hear that... I don't suppose you have anything going on in town do you?" Zecora smirked and began leading Krooked through the house to the bedroom. "Not that I know of. But I've never seen such a naughty look on your face." He chuckled and fell onto the bed with Zecora as she returned to her timid nature. Their lips connected as Krooked pulled the covers over them both while enjoying a loving embrace... A/N: No mature stuff this time around! I'm trying to move away from basing this story on sex and more on developing a cleaner story. I might have one more romance scene but if you're wanting something like that you'll have to tell me! I love suggestions! A Problem Left UnsolvedA Problem Left Unsolved One Week Later... Zecora awoke suddenly to the sound of breaking glass. In mere seconds she was out of bed and in the kitchen where Krooked was kneeling over remains of a plate. "Are you alright Krooked? What happened?" Krooked jumped and looked up at her. "Oh! um, I just dropped a plate while making breakfast. Everything's fine I think..." Krooked bent down and began picking up the larger pieces. Zecora slowly went to her knees and began to help. "Why were you making breakfast? You could have asked me to cook something if you wanted." A small blush crept onto his cheeks. "I figured I could surprise you with breakfast in bed, but I guess I'm a little too clumsy for that kind of stuff." Zecora giggled which made Krooked's blush grow. Once the mess was cleaned Zecora walked over to the small stove to find a pan of half cooked eggs sitting on one of the small burners. Small wafts of smoke rose from the sides, telling her to flip them immediately. Zecora began to prepare other small sides when a knock came from the door. "I'll get it Zecora!" Krooked hurried to the front door while Zecora began cutting fruit into slices, letting the eggs cook on the range. Feeling curious, Zecora moved to the table with two dishes in order to set the table while stealing a glance. Shock can turn anypony into a clumsymess. Zecora was no different as she fumbled with the dishes until they came crashing down. Krooked stood in the doorway, blocking most of her view but Zecora knew who was behind him. "M-mother?" The slightly aged mare looked deep into his eyes, the worn glasses on her face enhanced her happy yet tired expression. "Krooked, it's been so long..." "What are you doing here? Come inside, quickly!" Krooked shut the door behind her as they walked into the main room. Zecora only stared as he helped with cleaning the pieces of plate shards. Once the mess was cleaned the couple took a seat across from Krooked's mother. Zecora sat very close to Krooked, unsure of what was going to happen. "Mother, you never said why you came here. I thought you didn't want to see me." The mare sighed and brushed a lock of her scarlet from her eyes, her bright blue coat seemed to have faded since Zecora last saw her. "I know you must be confused... and I know the things I said when you left..." One Year Ago... "What do you think you're doing Krooked?" Krooked's mother stood at the door as her son moved about his room. With each pass he held some article of clothing or personal possession. "I'm leaving." The blunt statement shocked her. "What do you mean you're leaving?" "Exactly what I said, I'm going on tour and after that I'm going to return to Ponyville." His mother's brain was having difficulties grasping what he said. "This is because of that Zecora witch isn't it?" Krooked stopped packing and looked at her. "Yes, you may not like it but I still love her... and she's no witch. She is a kind, beautiful mare who I would give the world away to be with." She simply stayed at the doorway when Krooked tried to leave. "Please don't go... Not yet..." "I have to, she's been alone for so long. I can't bare to have her wait any longer." Feelings of sorrow turned to anger. "How do you even know she's waiting for you?! For all you know she could have ran off with a random stallion!" Krooked looked her in the eyes, a hint of agitation glinted in his gaze. "She wouldn't do that. Even if she did I want to see her regardless so I don't feel like I abandoned her!" With that Krooked brushed past his mother without another word. She turned with a small tear in her eye. "Fine then, go on back to your witch! I didn't need to look out for you anyways!" The door slammed behind her once Krooked had left her view. Tears streamed down her cheeks as she curled into a ball on the floor... Present Day... "I'm so sorry for everything I said. After you left things just weren't the same..." She looked down at her hooves that laid in her laps. "...So I left to go and find you. I found your tour schedule but every time I reached the city you had already left. Eventually I finished here since I figured you wouldn't leave Ponyville." Krooked stared at her for awhile before any reply even crossed his mind. Then, as if out of nowhere Krooked spoke in an even voice. "But I'm not leaving Zecora." The said zebra instantly shift her focus to Krooked's mother. A worried worried feeling swept over her. "I know that dear, I also wanted to apologize to Zecora..." The mare looked at Zecora through shame and sorrow filled eyes. "... I'm sorry for everything I've done to you Zecora, I knew deep down that you were never a bad zebra. It's just when all the other ponies said those things about you I got so worried about my son. I never should have separated the two of you." Zecora swiftly stood up and moved so she was able to rest a hoof on her shoulder. "All I wanted was to get to know you. If you're willing to do that I'd be more than happy to forget everything... Mother." Krooked's mother looked at Zecora while fighting back tears of relief. They both wrapped their hooves around each other and pulled themselves into a soft hug. Zecora remembered this kind of hug from her own mother. Krooked coughed lightly to rouse their attention. "So mother, what are you going to do? Are you going to return home?" His mother smiled and hugged him as well. "Yes I am... To my true home in Ponyville." Krooked returned the hug once she had spoke. "Thank you for coming mother. I love you..." "I love you too son..." Two Days Later... "Wow, I can't believe Krooked's mom followed him all that time!" Cloud Chaser exclaimed from the bathroom across from her room. Zecora and Flitter nodded as they sat with two body pillows on the floor. Flitter broke the silence soon afterwards. "What was it like seeing her again for you Zecora?" "Well, it was very strange when I first saw her in our home. I didn't know if she was trying to take Krooked away again... But she turned out to be a very nice mare. We've been talking with each other almost the entire time she's been back. Now we're practically mother-daughter!" Zecora's eyes sparkled at the thought of having a parent back in her life. "I'm sure it must be nice then. What does she do for money now? If I remember correctly she used to help Twilight in the library." "Well you're almost correct, Krooked's mother bought one of the stalls in town square so that she can open a bookststand. All she's doing now is waiting for the books to be delivered." Just then Cloud Chaser entered the room and plopped down on Flitter's pillow. She rested her head on Flitter's lap which brought a blush to her cheeks. "Enough talk about mommy stuff! Do you want to go hangout with us at Sugarcube Corner Zecora?" "Oh, alright I guess. It's been awhile since I visited Pinkie Pie." "You haven't missed much, that crazy mare is still as random and cheerful as she's always been." Zecora giggled as the trio left the house and made their way for Sugarcube Corner... A Time for Growing FriendshipA Time for Growing Friendship Almost as soon as the front door to the famous bakery swung open Zecora was brought into a hug so tight it felt like her ribs would crack. The pony assaulting her with love was none other than her pink colored friend. "Hey there Zecora! It's been sooo long since I last saw you! Well I guess it's only been a few days but it's felt like forever!" The pony continued to babble until Zecora was able to tap her arm lightly. "Pinkie... can't... breathe!" Pinkie quickly released her and helped Zecora stand. "Sorry Zecora, I just missed you sooo so much!" "It's alright Pinkie. But I didn't come alone." Pinkie looked up and squeaked with joy at the site of Zecora's company. "Hey Pinkie, still hyped up on cupcakes I see." Cloud Chaser smiled and took a seat at a nearby table along with Flitter. Pinkie practically threw two more chairs next to the table and made Zecora sit with her. Wow Zecora, it looks like your tummy has like, TRIPLED in size! I mean I guess it's impossible for it to grow so quickly but you're huge!" Pinkie giggled so much she let out a light snort which only made her laughter grow. Zecora smiled at her and rubbed her belly gently. "I guess I have grown a little lately. I wonder how long I have left." Zecora glanced at Flitter who wore a shocked face. "You haven't even asked for a guess? Why didn't you have the doctor tell you at least an estimate?" "Because it doesn't matter when I have my child. I'll find out for myself when the time is right. Besides it could only have been a little while ago so it's kind of pointless." "How long do you think it will be then? Zebra anatomy isn't exactly common knowledge." Zecora laughed at Cloud Chaser's comment. "Well from what I remember it usually lasts about a year." "Awww I wanted to be there to see the baby nooww!" Pinkie huffed and crossed her arms together to the laughs of the other three. "Who knows Pinkie, maybe you will be there to see it! I wont know till atleast a few days before it happens." Zecora's hyperactive friend immediately busted into another grin and hugged her once more. "Well I'll just stay by your side until that baby pops out!" Everypony giggled once more at her comment. After about an hour of idle chatting the three guests decided it was time to head back home. Each waved goodbye with Zecora being that last to make her way towards the door. "See ya Zecora! Make sure to come back soon, or I can come visit you since I've always wanted to see your home! Oh wait will Mr. And Mrs. Cake give me a day off? Oh well bye Zecora!" Pinkie waved her hoof frantically as Zecora left with a smile. She walked with Flitter and Cloud Chaser back to their home but stopped outside their door. "Are you sure you don't want to come in Zecora? Cloud Chaser and I were going to have some of this special coffee she found while visiting Cloudsdale!" Zecora smiled and shook her head politely. "I'm fine, I was hoping to spend some time with Krooked today so I can see how he and his mother are doing." Flitter attempted to push the matter but was quickly interrupted by one of Cloud Chaser's hooves that pulled her inside. "See ya' later Zecora!" Cloud Chaser swung the door closed as small whines were heard from Flitter. Zecora giggled to herself and started making her way back down the path leading to the Everfree Forest... Zecora's Hut... "Krooked I'm home!" Zecora announced while closing the front door behind her. She searched around the main room to find nopony in sight. "Krooked?" Zecora made her way to the bedroom when a pair of hooves wrapped themselves around her midsection. She let out an "eep" as Krooked spun her aound for a sudden kiss. "Hey there Zecora!" Krooked laughed when Zecora playfully punched him in the shoulder. "Don't startle me like that! I almost had a heart attack!" Zecora spoke with a generally cheerful smile that Krooked noticed easily. "You seem really happy today, did you have fun at Flitter's?" "Oh yes it was amazing! We went to see Pinkie Pie too." "How is she?" "Come on it's Pinkie Pie! She never anything but happy!" They both laughed and hugged once more. "So what have you been doing today?" Zecora spoke as Krooked led her to two pillows in a corner. Zecora sat down but Krooked moved to a drawer nearby and began digging through its contents. "I made you something else I thought you'd like!" Zecora sighed yet still smiled at the eager colt's back. "You don't have to keep giving me all of these gifts you know." Krooked turned around but kept one hoof behind his back. "But I loved making it! It was actually a lot of fun carving this for you!" As he spoke Krooked revealed a small heart shaped figure. The edges were slightly rough to show that it was hoof carved with what seemed to be a simple knife. The center of the heart was hollowed out and a skinny hole in the top told Zecora it was a small picture frame. A banner was carved underneath the heart with the words "Family is One of Nature’s Masterpieces..." "Oh Krooked it's beautiful! You did this all by yourself?" Krooked chuckled and scratched his head. "Well, I had some help with the writing but other than that it was me." Zecora kissed him on the cheek and placed the frame down. "I really do like it Krooked. We just need a picture to put in it now." She giggled and led Krooked to the bedroom and closed the door. "I think I can wait for that picture if you can." Krooked smirked and kissed her as they both fell onto the bed together... 6 Months Later... Zecora stretched her back as she watched the sitting form of Krooked. He scratched his chin while a half finished crib laid in pieces on the floor in a corner of the main room. His eyes browsed a small booklet on making the miniature bed. "Maybe we should have bought an actual crib. It's not like decorations and pendants." Krooked scoffed and continued to put bits and pieces together as Zecora sighed and rubbed her forehead. "Don't be silly! How am I going to get better if I don't at least try to make something with actual parts?" He remarked as a peg slid into the side of one of the legs. Zecora wasn't sure why Krooked had taken up woodcrafts as a hobby but she wasn't going to complain. All around the house hung many wooden figures of varying sizes and styles. She felt kind of bad though since Krooked had barely sung so much as a few words since he arrived. Wasn't that his favorite thing? It was his talent for crying out loud! "Hey Krooked..." "Yeah Zecora? Is something wrong?" "I was just thinking. You never sing or do anything musical for that matter. Why is that?" Krooked sighed and placed the piece he held on the ground. "I'm sorry! I didn't mean to pry." "No it's fine, I guess I just haven't felt like singing lately. Well I think a better way to explain it is it's just slipped my mind! With everything that's been happening with the baby and all..." Krooked scratched his head when an imaginary bulb lit up in his head. "Okay this will sound really random but I just had an amazing idea!"
A Friend Lost to the PastA Friend Lost to the Past "Eeew run guys or Zecora might get you!" A small group of fillies yelled and screamed as they ran in every direction from the small black and grey zebra. Zecora simply sighed and trudged home while everypony else regrouped to go home together. She always wondered what it was like to have a friend, what would they look like? Would they be thin and tall or thick and small? Would they be fun and cheery or dark and dreary? These thoughts always found their way into her mind despite her efforts to keep those false dreams from hurting her. "Watch out!" Zecora looked up and jumped backwards just in time for a bright blue colt to zoom by on a miniature scooter. The scooter twisted and turned until the blue pony was sent flying over the handle bars and into a nearby bush. Zecora hurried to the bush and helped him out of the now destroyed shrub. "Are you alright? That was a hard crash you had." "Yeah, I'm still learning so I'm used to it." The colt scratched the back of his head and laughed. "My name's Krooked Bass, nice to meet ya'!" Zecora stared at his outstretched hoof with an open mouth. "What's wrong? Do your people not shake hooves?" "No! It's just... why would you want to shake hooves with me?" Nopony was ever nice to Zecora so she simply assumed nopony would ever care to greet her properly. "Well, you seem like a nice filly and you helped me so I thought I'd show you my gratitude. It seems simple enough to me." Seeing that he was serious Zecora hesitantly touched his hoof and shook it. "What's your name anyways?" "Umm Z-Zecora..." "That's a pretty name." Zecora turned to hide the blush that was growing on her cheeks when Krooked asked something she never thought she would hear. "Hey, if you're not doing anything would you like to come play with me?" He looked down and kicked a pebble as he asked. "S-sure! What do you want to do?" "Well, do you want to go play at the playground?" He scratched his chin in thought. Zecora merely nodded in a daze before being pulled onto the scooter and the next thing she knew they were buzzing down the street with the power of Krooked's small blue wings. As they rode towards the park Zecora watched the focused look on Krooked's as the wind blew his long, red, and white mane back. It wasn't long before they arrived at the playground. To Zecora's dismay a group of rowdy filly colts sat on the swing set. They all looked her way and started trotting over to them both. "What do you think you're doing here zebra? We don't want you damn witches around here!" Zecora shivered and stepped back behind Krooked who stood tall and looked their apparent leader in the eye. "Cool it bro, we just want to enjoy ourselves. We won't bother anypony." The entire group laughed at him which seemed to make his muscles tense up. "Look at this fellas! Little Miss Witch was able to brainwash somepony! Look punk, if you stay friends with her than you're no better than that damn bi-" His outburst was interrupted by a hoof to the face as Krooked tackled him to the ground and held him down with his other hoof. "You leave Zecora alone! I don't care who you are but nopony messes with my friend!" Zecora simply stared until Krooked released the colt who scampered off with his crew in tow. "I'm sorry you had to see that, those guys just piss me off to no end!" "N-nopony's ever stood up for me before... Why did you do that for me?" Tears began to form in the corners of Zecora's eyes. "I don't know, something inside me just didn't want to see you hurt..." She fell to the ground and began crying soft tears of happiness. "Thank you..." Krooked sat down beside her and threw his arm over her shoulders. "Don't worry about it. I promise not to let those bullies treat you that way ever again. It goes against what I believe in!" "What is that?" Zecora sniffed while feeling curious. "Do not judge the cover of the book..." 3 Years Later... "Come on Zecora, if we don't hurry we won't get to see the Phoenix become reborn!" Zecora sighed and began running to catch up with a now teenage size Krooked Bass. "Don't worry Krooked, they aren't supposed to change until dusk. We'll have plenty of time when we get there." They both stopped so Zecora could catch her breath. "Alright, I guess we can slow down a little for you." He slowed his pace so that they were side by side. "Thanks, sorry I'm not as athletic as you are." "No problem, sometimes it's nice to slow down and enjoy the forest with a friend..." He pulled an mp3 player out of his bag and turned on a gentle melody. He then turned up a pair of round, black headphones that seemed to have become his trademark accessory. "I love this song..." Zecora moved slightly closer so that she could hear the song better. "Yeah, it just makes you want to sit back and unwind... But that'll have to wait until we reach the forest!" Krooked smiled and began to speed up to a fast trot as they entered the dense shrubbery. "Alright we're here!" Declared Zecora as she pulled a blanket out of her own saddlebag and laid it on the ground." "Are you sure? I don't see the Phoenixes anywhere." Krooked began spinning around in search until Zecora stopped him in front of a particular group of trees. Five trees each had a nest that held a small family of Phoenixes. Their bright red feathers were ruffled and falling off every second as their rebirth approached. "It's amazing how something so sickly looking is actually a beautiful art of nature..." Zecora laid her head on Krooked's shoulder as they watched the sun set in anticipation. Right when their was only a small sliver of sun left Krooked put another dynamic beat that seemed to flow perfectly with the scene. The last ray of sunlight faded but was replaced with the glow of every Phoenix bursting into a dazzling display of sparks and flames. The creatures remained where they were and waited as their remaining feathers burned away and the flames then began eating at their skin as if it was paper. The display continued until finally all that remained was small piles of ash in every nest. Some nests had only one lump while others held groups of three or four. If Zecora didn't know better it would have been a very depressing scene. The two ponies sat in wait until another flash of light shined throughout the entire forest as each ash pile exploded. Zecora looked up where a brand new flock of Phoenixes soared to and fro to get out any dust and stretch their reborn muscles. Each one seemed to glow with it's own light source as their dark red feathers blended with the bright yellows like the fire of a lit torch. "It's so beautiful Krooked... Thank you for this..." "It nothing, I wanted to see them anyways." Krooked replied bluntly. "No, I mean thank you for everything..." "Everything?" "Everything you've done for me since we met. You were my first friend ever and you protected me from everything from the very beginning... Whenever somepony tried to hurt me you scared them away and we've done everything together. I'll never forget that. I think that..." Krooked sat up straight and looked Zecora in the eye. "I think t-that I love you!" She exclaimed and pounced on Krooked for a kiss. He tensed up from the sudden tackle but he relaxed instantly and returned the kiss. They reluctantly broke apart for breath after around a minute. "Zecora, I've always loved you... you don't know how much this means to me." Tears of happiness began to trickle down Zecora's cheek as she was brought in for another kiss... "Krooked, I want you to be my first. Can you please accept my gift?" "Of course, I wouldn't want anypony else to have it." He replied and lightly kissed Zecora's neck before slowly moving down her body. As he did so Krooked made sure to feel every inch of Zecora's body. Her soft, smooth coat laid flat against her slim figure that curved into a large, round flank. Muffled moans escaped through Zecora's lips as Krooked rubbed her inner thighs. She had tried some things on her own but it was nothing compared to being tended to by the one she loved. Krooked smiled when he came across her little pink slit that was surrounded by tufts of black and white striped fur. She was already warm and wet with anticipation when he gently stroked her lips with his hoof. "Hmm, you're already so wet. Do you play with yourself when you're alone?" Zecora's face became hot with embaressment but it seemed to heighten her pleasure. "Y-yeah..." He smirked and sped up the stroking. "Do you think of me when you do it?" Her moans grew louder. "Yesss!" "Guess what?" He brought his head up so he could whisper into her ear. Her breath was growing ragged. "I think of you too." Her limit was finally reached as an enormous wave of ecstasy broke her mental flood gates and covered all other thoughts. "Krooked... that was incredible..." She breathed heavily into his ear. "We're not even close to done my little zebra." He then surprised Zecora with a lick to her nether lips which earned him a shudder. "Mmm, delicious." Zecora's blush grew darker. "Don't say things like that... it's embarrassing." "I only say what's the truth." He smirked and continued to to lick while gently rubbing her tiny nub to turn her already slurred speach into full blown moans. She then rested her hooves on his head to help his tongue deeper into her aching hole. Sweat began mixing with her other fluids as her second climax approached ever so closely. It wasnt long before Krooked noticed her breathing speed up so to give the final blow he pulled out his tongue and vigorously licked her clit while still rubbing her pussy with his hoof. Within minutes Zecora couldn't hold it in any longer as she nearly screamed in pleasure from her second climax. Her back arched up as her juices flowed freely into Krooked's mouth who lapped it up like candy. Once her high had subsided Zecora fell back to the ground in a pool of sweat and cum. Krooked allowed her a few minutes of rest before moving back to where they were face to face. "Are you ready for the real thing?" She simply nodded and kissed him. "Just be a little gentle at first..." He smiled and kissed her back while positioning his dick at her still soaked entrance. Once he had found his spot he pulled her close and slowly slipped passed her entrance, eliciting a cry of pleasure. Krooked groaned from the tightness of her virgin walls being spread open with every inch deeper he went. Eventually his dick came within contact of what had to have been her hymen. "Are you sure you're ready for this?" She nodded again without hesitation, her eyes locked with his as he reeled back and slammed past her wall. She let out another yelp that was muffled when she brought her face into the fur on Krooked's chest. They lyed there for what felt like an eternity while Zecora readjusted to Krooked's size. They made eye contact again to show she was ready. Krooked slowly out until only his tip was in. He then thrusted back in to go even further than he did before. Zecora cried again but it was more of pleasure than pain. Krooked kissed her cheek and continued to thrust in and out. Moans radiated throughout the forest as flesh clashed with flesh. "Krooked... I think... I'm going to cum!" Zecora gasped right before said climax wracked her body for a final time. Krooked grunted as her walls clenched his stallionhood like a vice that continued to pull him in. "Zecora... I'm almost there too!" "Oh please do it inside! I want to feel us became truly one!" As if by command Krooked thrusted in as deep as he could and began covering her insides with his sticky cum. Zecora pulled him in even more as her womb continued to be filled. Krooked soon collapsed on top of her in a sweaty heap. Krooked rolled off quickly but still held her hoof as they laid there. He watched as her chest gently moved up and down with each breath she took from the past actions. "That was so amazing Krooked... I'm so happy you were my first..." He just grinned at her before replying. "I didn't want some loser taking you away from me..." He laughed and brought her into a soft embrace as they began dozing off into the dark abyss of sleep... Two Weeks Later... "Get away from him you witch! We won't let you ruin our boy's mind!" Krooked's mother yelled and shoved Zecora into the street. Everypony merely stared with wide eyes as Krooked ran to her side. His mother had never known that they were meeting for this very reason. They both decided to introduce Zecora to her but the result was far from what they had expected. "Leave her alone Mom! She hasn't done anything to me or anyone else!" "But my daughter followed her into the Everfree Forest and she came back covered in sores and cuts!" A random pink mare exclaimed which caused the crowd to gasp. "That's it! Come , we were going to wait to tell you but we're leaving NOW. Pack your bags!" Zecora and Krooked's eyes went wide with horror at what they had heard. Tears began to form in Zecora's eyes. "No... No... Please don't go Krooked! I can't survive here without you!" She buried her head into Krooked's chest while sobbing. Krooked shook his head to refocus himself before holding her like he'd never held her before. "Shh... listen Zecora, I had no idea this was happening. But I promise I'll come back as soon as I possibly can. I need you to stay strong until then. Can you do that." Her sobbing stopped suddenly as she looked up to him with still teary eyes. She leaned in and kissed him one last time before he was torn away from her and pulled into the house. In a matter of a few minutes the reason for her life had been ripped away from her like the petal of a flower with but one leaf... Three Months Later... Zecora sat on a makeshift carpet in a hollowed out tree that she called home. Though 'home' was the last thing it felt like to her. Without her love life itself seemed to deny her comfort. "Oh Krooked Bass... What I'd give to see your face... For I am all alone... In this dreary place..." Tears began to form once again as she stared at a small photo of her lost love. Small droplets splattered against the plastic cover as her sobs filled the empty house for almost the thirtieth time. He had promised her that he would return, but what if he couldn't? What if something had happened so that he simply wouldn't? Two Years Later... Zecora examined the various bottles and containers that filled her new shelves that lined her naturally decorated living room. She smiled when her eyes spotted their target: a small green jar of pickled Blazing Vine for her experimental brew. She had no idea what would happen but she mixed the smashed red plant into a large cauldron of many other ingredients. To her surprise the mostly clear liquid turned pink instantly and a large poof of pink smoke rose up in the shape of a heart. Her amazement was soon replaced with sadness as old memories resurfaced... Zecora had never given up hope and even learned to cope with her grief but every passing day seemed more and more painful as she waited for his return. She sighed and began to pour the liquid down a drain when a knock came from the front door. She never had received a visitor before. It was probably some joker who felt like giving her a good tease... She shrugged and put the cauldron down and trudged to the front door. Without looking through the peephole she swung the door open with her eyes to the ground. "If you're here to threaten me then just..." She stopped midsentence when a set of blue hooves came into view. Now she had seen plenty of blue ponies in her life but only one colt had such a deep shaded coat like that. "Zecora? I told you I'd be back..." The End Hmm I might do a sequel if I can figure out how that would work... If you like Zecora than get ready for some more of her!
A Love Gained from the PresentA Love Gained From the Present "K-Krooked? Is it really you?" Zecora stared in shock at the now full-sized Krooked Bass. "Of course it is... Let me prove I'm real!" As he spoke Zecora was pulled into a tight embrace followed by a deep kiss. They stood there for what felt like an eternity. The almost forgotten taste of his tongue enveloped Zecora's eyes became wet with tears as they separated. She instantly buried her head into his shoulder and cried tears of joy. Krooked just closed his eyes and stroked her mane with a smile. "I wasn't sure if you'd come back... I thought you had forgotten about me..." "Of course not! Every moment I thought about the day I would see you again. Let's go inside for now." Zecora nodded and led Krooked throughout her home until they reached a sitting area occupied by a small dining table with two seats. Zecora motioned for him to sit while she made some tea from a small table stocked with various bags of dried leaves. Once the tea was brewing over a small stove that stood next to the counter she sat back down. "This is a nice little home you have here Zecora. I'm glad you did well on your own. But what are all these bottles for?" Their eye contact broke when she looked down at the ground. "T-they're for potions... I gather things around the forest and try to find mixtures that could help if anypony got hurt while exploring. I'm still learning so I don't have many that work." "That's incredible! What kinds of things can you cure?" Krooked's eyes sparkled with wonder. "Just some simple antidotes to things like Poison Joke and Ivy. But what do you do now?" He grinned with pride and pointed at his cutie mark which was a set of headphones laying on top of a turntable. "I've been DJ'ing around Equestria on my way here. My friend Vinyl is still touring right now but I told I'm stopping here... for good..." "I'm so happy for you Krooked, but what will you do if you stay here? I don't want you to give up your dream for me..." He placed a hoof on her lips for silence. "Zecora, music is my talent, not my dream. My dream is to be with you..." He leaned over the table and kissed her lightly on the cheek. "By the way, the tea is ready." Zecora jumped and hurried to pour the steaming tea. She added a large cube of ice from a small box lined with a special fabric for chilling. She placed both cups on the table and waited for hers to cool. Krooked took a long sip of his before speaking. "So how has the town been treating you?" "Oh you know... they just avoid me and I avoid them the most I can." "Well that won't do! If they haven't come to their senses yet than there's no better time than now!" As he said that he grabbed Zecora right after she had finished her tea and led her out the door. "Wait, Krooked! I don't think this is a good idea!" "Nonsense, their attitude is getting on my last nerve! After all this time those bastards still... come on!" Zecora went silent the rest of the way to the town square... "Eek! It's Zecora! Run, hide, protect your children!" The townsfolk scattered in every direction as the couple approached. By the time they were in the middle every door had been locked and nearly every window had it's shutters closed. Krooked sighed and trotted over to the closest house. He knocked constantly until a bright blue Pegasus with an even brighter mane opened up. "What do you want Krooked? Why are you still with the witch?" Krooked peered past her and noticed a group of around six ponies huddled together. "Look Flitter, can you please just come outside? This mass hysteria is getting tiresome. I promise you that it's safe." She looked around with hesitation but nodded and followed Krooked to where Zecora had been waiting. "Zecora, meet Flitter. She's an old friend from school. Flitter, this is Zecora. She's been my friend since school as well." "N-nice to meet you Flitter." Zecora slowly offered her hoof with a nervous smile. "Umm likewise..." Flitted returned the hoofshake with an equally nervous smile. "Alright, now that you know each other's names you should know that Zecora is NOT a witch." "But then what do you do in the forest all of the time? Why do you place curses on anypony who follows you and what's with the cloak?" "I live in the forest because nopony wants me to live in the city and I don't curse ponies. All their illnesses are caused by the many poisonous plants in the forest. The cloak protects me from most of them. Plus, the only thing I do that's close to witchcraft is make antidotes for various ailments." Flitter went wide-eyed and facehoofed herself in shame. Flitter immediately went to her home and forced the group inside out. They to felt immense shame when they learned about the truth. Soon the entire town stood in a circle around the three ponies with heads bowed in apology. Out of seemingly no where the newly elected Mayor Mare stepped up to Zecora. "Miss Zecora, I hope you accept our towns deepest apologies for everything that you have endured. We'd be happy to call you a citizen of Ponyville." She beamed at Zecora with an outstretched hoof which she accepted with a blush. The crowd instantly rushed up to Zecora with many questions about who she was and what antidotes she had but they were quickly stopped by Krooked and Flitter. "Alright everypony, I'm sure we'll be back but for now I need to take Zecora back home. This has been a very exciting day for everypony." The crowd let out complains but Flitter motioned for them to leave as well. "You heard him everypony, it's time we get on home so they can get some rest." They let out a collective sigh but dispersed all the same. "Feel free to stop by my house some time Zecora for a little chat." Flitter smiled before beading back to her home. "It's getting pretty late Krooked, you can stay at my house if you like." He simply smiled and kissed her on the cheek. "I'd like nothing more..." Zecora nuzzled his neck as they strolled down the trail. Each branch seemed to intertwine with each other into a makeshift archway. What little suight remained threaded itself between each branch like a needle through fabric, creating a web of shadows with strands that thickened as they made their way farther in. "I've never really noticed but the forest hasn't changed much since the night we watched the Phoenixes turn. If there wasn't so many dangers I bet everypony would love to visit it." "Well maybe Celestia made the forest like that so only we could enjoy its true beauty." Zecora giggled at him and kissed his cheek as they approached her home. "Thanks again for taking me in Zecora." "Think nothing of it, of course I'd let the one I love stay with me!" She kissed him again before he opened the front door and let her inside. "To tell you the truth I don't feel like sleeping yet." Zecora hopped on her bed and patted the spot beside her. "Who said anything about sleep yet? If you're up to it I feel like making up for all of that lost time..." A smirk grew on Krooked's face before be became a blue and red blur when he jumped on the bed as well. Zecora giggled when a flurry of kisses pelted her cheek and neck. Suddenly their lips met for an extended kiss. Their tongues intertwined, locking together in a loving embrace much like the rest of their bodies... Small gasps escaped Zecora when a hoof could be felt brushing her cutie mark and caressing her flank. Her face went red when Krooked's hoof then moved to inside her thighs. A quiet squish could be heard as he rubbed the already wet folds of her marehood. She backed away when he tried to move down so that he was eye to eye. "What's wrong Zecora? You don't like it when I do that?" She shook her head quickly. "I was hoping I c-could try something first..." She began to gently rub his package as she spoke. He let out a shudder as his member grew with every stroke of her hoof. She used slow, gentle movements in a way to tease him into a slow climax. "Zecora... Where did you learn such a thing?" "What, are you saying I don't have enough sense to know what you like?" "I didn't SAY that..." He smirked again in an attempt to egg her on. It seemed to have worked as she huffed and began to slide her mouth over his tip. Krooked sighed as he watched Zecora's delicate lips begin to spread apart as she took in more and more of his length. Due to her lack of experience it wasn't long before Zecora had reached her limit. Once she could go no further Zecora back almost completely out but thrusted back down with greater force. She continued to bob her head up and down his shaft while Krooked leaned back and enjoyed the attention he was receiving. He wished the feeling could last forever but an almost forgotten sensation began to appear in the back of his mind. Krooked instantly sat up and bad Zecora stop. "What's wrong Krooked?" "Nothing, I'm just getting close. Are you ready for the main deal?" She blushed at the blunt question but nodded all the same. Krooked carefully scooted over so Zecora could lay her head on the pillows. He then positioned himself so that he was right on top of her with his stallionhood at her enterance. Zecora was a little nervous considering how long it had been but a gentle kiss from the blue colt she loved quelled all doubt that he would hurt her. Her breathing turned to moaning as the large member slid itself into her aching hole. Her walls began to convulse and squeeze his dick as if they were already milking him dry. Krooked knew better though and began to pump in and out so that she couldn't get a firm grasp of him to slow the pleasure. They continued this pattern of in-out until Zecora could feel a pressure building up inside of her. Before she knew how to respond the pressure exploded in a wave of ecstasy. Every muscle she had began to tense up as her climax washed over her body and seemed to move through Krooked's body as well. His limit wasn't much farther as he too began to tense up and his thrusts went further and further inside. By the time his climax arrived his tip was just barely hitting the enterance to her womb. Screams of ecstasy rang throughout the small home as Zecora's womb was filled to the brim with the sticky love juices of her lover. Her walls continued to clench around him as she continued to milk him until neither had any energy left. Krooked laid down next to Zecora who gave him a loving kiss on the cheek. They wrapped their forelegs around each other once Krooked pulled the blankets over the both of them. "That was incredible Krooked, I didn't think you would make me feel so good." "I aim to please, I think I'm going to stay here with you from now on." He kissed her on the cheek again and pulled her head under his chin. "If that's what you want, I just want you to be happy. You deserve that much." "I already am..."
A Life Created for the FutureA Life Created for the Future A Few Days Later... Krooked awoke to the sound of Zecora crying in the bathroom. Concerned, he gently knocked on the partially open door. "Are you alright Zecora? Do you need me to help?" Her reply was the sound of vomiting. He instantly swung the door open to find Zecora hugging the toilet while sobbing. "I don't know what's wrong Krooked... I-I just felt sick all of a s-sudden." He kneeled down and gently rubbed her back with his hoof. "Do you think you need a doctor? Just to be make sure it isn't serious?" "I suppose, i must have been careless the last time I was out..." Doctor Whooves' Office...(:3) "Well, I've never worked on a zebra before but from what you've already told me and the tests we took..." the brown stallion spoke with a hint of excitement. "What is it Whooves? Don't give us that suspense crap." Krooked replied sternly. "Well fine if you're gonna be that way... Zecora's pregnant." Both of their jaws went slack at the blunt statement that practically changed their lives. "W-what? Krooked what are we-?" "Thank you doctor, we'll be going now. Is it alright if we pay later?" "Don't worry about that right now, you two go on home." Doctor Whooves smiled and waved as the couple left with blank stares. Zecora's House... "Krooked... What do we do?" Zecora asked in a slightly panicked voice. Krooked simply sat in silence as if in intense thought. The lack of a response made Zecora fidget in her seat. "Krooked! Krooked!" "I don't know alright!" Krooked shot out of his seat and began to pace around the room. Zecora flinched at the outburst. "I'm sorry Zecora, I'm just surprised how quickly it happened..." Krooked sat back down and laid his head on the table. "I know it's hard to take in but we need to think of what we're going to do." "You're right... I'm sorry I'm not taking this as well as I should. I didn't think I would be a father so soon." Zecora pulled a chair next to him and pulled herself into a hug. "It's alright Krooked, I don't know anypony who could take this news without ANY emotion." Krooked smiled at her and gave her a kiss. "Speaking of other ponies. Maybe you should go tell Flitter the news!" Zecora fidgeted in her seat at the mention of going to town on her own. "Don't worry, Flitter is a good mare. I'm sure she'd be happy to help you with this!" Zecora relaxed a little before finally deciding to head out to Ponyville. "I'll be there to talk with you girls in a little while. I still have some things I'm expecting to arrive soon. Zecora nodded and made her way back into town with a slightly better attitude... Flitter's House... 'Alright Zecora, you can do this!' Zecora took a deep breath and gently knocked on the door. "Just a minute!" The familiar voice of Flitter could be heard on the other side. After less than a minute the door suddenly opened to reveal the bright blue maned mare. "Zecora! I wasn't expecting to see you so soon. What can I do for you?" Zecora kicked the ground Amex looked down. "I-I was hoping we could talk about something..." The blue pony gave her a quizzical look. "Sure thing, come on in!" A Few Minutes Later... "Pregnant?! Zecora that's so amazing! Congratulations!" Flitter rushed to where Zecora was sitting and gave her a hug. "I cant believe you're going to be parents so soon!" "We can't believe it either. I'm a little nervous about the whole thing though... What if we're not ready to become parents? I mean we just got back together about a week ago!" The young zebra tensed up at the thought of something causing her love to leave. However a gentle hoof on her shoulder brought Zecora back to the real world. "It'll be alright Zecora. I know Krooked and I'm sure he'll never leave your side... and I bet you'll be a great parent. The fact you were able to forgive the entire town after a lifetime of being mistreated is proof that you are kind enough to be a parent." Flitter smiled cheerfully and gave Zecora a pat on the back. "Would you like something to drink Zecora? If it's alright with you I'd like to get to know you a little better!" "Oh um, tea is just fine... and I'd love to talk." Glitter nodded and happily trotted into the kitchen with Zecora close behind. "So tell me about yourself Zecora." "What would you like to know?" "Anything, like where are your parents? I never saw them when we were little." Zecora's eyes went to the floor at the mention of her parents. "I'm sorry, you don't have to tell me if you don't want to." "No it's fine... It's actually a pretty simple story. When I was a filly I was exploring the forest with my parents for their research. I didn't know what they were looking for so I was just running around and playing. But as I ran I tripped on what felt like a root..." Zecora's eyes turned soft as she continued. "... But it turned out to not be a root at all. When I looked back I heard a loud roar and a weird beast jumped out of the nearby brush. It was very peculiar as it had the body of a reptile but the head of a... Chicken? I still don't know what it was but my body began to slow down and I began feeling very heavy. I thought is was going to kill me but my parents appeared in front of me. I tried to ask what the monster was but they yelled for me to run. So I did... I ran and ran until I found myself right outside my front door. There I waited until night fall for my parents to arrive. But they never did... I went to town to get help but nopony wanted to help the daughter of a witch or a "warlock"... I went to see if I could find them myself, but when I found the place where I last saw them... There was just a small pile of dust..." A small tear trickled down Zecora's face before a small breakdown wracked her body. Flitter hurried back to Zecora's side and pulled her close, gently petting her mane as they sat. "It's alright Zecora... I'm so sorry, we should have helped you but we didn't... But you must stay strong now more than ever. What if your child want's to know about her grandparent's I don't think she wants to know how painful it was for you to lose the only ponies you cared about at that age." Zecora sniffed and looked Flitter in the eye. "You're right... thanks Flitter." Zecora smiled and nuzzled her new friend. "No problem, now looks like we have some planning to do!" Flitter offered to help Zecora to her bedroom but Zecora declined with a smile. The two made their way upstairs and down a small hall where small doors lined the wall. Flitter stopped at a particular door and held the knob but didn't open it. "Cloudchaser are you awake? I have a friend you should meet." The door swung open to reveal a pony that looked very similar to Flitter save for her much more wild manestyle. "Flitter, you know I don't like waking from my naps. Who's the friend?" She looked between Flitter and Zecora before realizing who the friend was. "Zecora! What are you doing here?" Flitter stepped in front of Zecora before she could reply. "She's here because there's some great news!" Cloudchaser just yawned and made room for them to enter. "What is she having a baby or something?" To Be Continued...
A Bond Strengthened Through TimeA Bond Strengthened with Time "Oh Celestia, I wasn't serious!" Cloud Chaser laughed and patted Zecora on the back which caused the young zebra to flinch slightly. "Zecora, this is Cloud Chaser. We've worked together for the past... five years I think?" Flitter looked at Cloud Chaser who simply nodded to confirm it. "Wait your not sisters? But you look so alike." Zecora's face went pink when the pair laughed to each other. "Everypony always thinks that when they meet us. But no, we're just just good friends." "Really good friends." Cloud Chaser winked playfully at Flitter to bring out some color from her cheeks. Zecora simply tried to ignore the gesture and nodded with understanding while making her way inside when Cloud Chaser stepped aside. "So what can I do for you two? I don't know much about foals and this kinds of things." "We just felt like talking, Zecora's a little nervous and I thought you'd like to be her friend!" "Well sure! Take a seat wherever you like I'm sure we'll have a swell time!" Some Time Later... "... and that's how Cloud Chaser got that scar on her flank!" Zecora and Flitter giggled as Cloud Chaser covered the mentioned mark on her upper thigh. "Alright laugh it up, but just wait till I tell you-" Cloud Chaser stopped when the doorbell rang. "Oh I'll get it!" Flitted hurried out with a blush while Cloud Chaser remained seated next to Zecora with an amused smirk. "What's she so embarrassed about?" "Oh nothing, maybe I'll tell you another time." Cloud Chaser chuckled as Flitter returned, her face brighter and the blush gone. "Krooked's here Zecora." "Oh alright, I'll be right down!" Zecora stood up quickly and went downstairs with a subtle skip in her step. Krooked took a seat on the couch when Zecora pounced on him for a hug. She giggled as she kissed him on the cheek. "What was that for Zecora?" Krooked asked with a chuckle. Zecora leaned in close to his ear so nopony could hear her. "You were right Krooked! Flitter and Cloud Chaser have been so nice to me all day!" She whispered with a large smile. Krooked simply hugged her back. "I told you they'd make good friends! But where are-" Krooked was interrupted by giggling coming from the kitchen. "Aww look at them Cloud! Aren't they just adorable?" The two mares stuck their heads out from behind the door frame and giggled like little school fillies. "We might have to head back upstairs lest things start to get steamy!" Their giggles turned into full blown laughter when they noticed Zecora's face turn scarlet, Krooked simply smirked and pulled her closer to him. "That doesn't sound like a bad idea. What do you think Zecora?" He got a reply in the form of a sudden push as Zecora jumped off of him. "N-no! Just please come in." Zecora tried to fight the blush that continued to grow on her cheeks. "So what brings you by Krooked?" Flitted asked while taking a seat in a chair beside Cloud Chaser. "I was Just stopping by to see how Zecora is doing with making friends." "Did you have any doubts about us becoming friends? Zecora has been wonderful to get to know! She always has interesting stories to tell!" Zecora smiled and sat down next to Krooked once again. "She's right Krooked, they've both been wonderful! I never knew making friends was so much fun!" "Well there's plenty of ponies in Ponyville to make more friends with!" Krooked wrapped his foreleg around her neck and pulled her close. "But before we look for more I was hoping you would come home with me. I have something for you!" Zecora gave him a curious look. "Go on Zecora! Flitter and I'll see you soon so go hang with your little coltfriend!" Cloud Chaser poked her with a grin. "Well alright, let's go Krooked!" The couple stood up simultaneously and made their way out the door. They both waved while make their way back to the forest... Zecora's Home... "So what was it you wanted to show me?" Zecora tried to look over Krooked's shoulder when he opened a box that must have arrived with his things. He leaned in closer to block her view. "It's something I found while on tour. I was browsing through a market in St. Equinas when this I notice this little old lady that sat behind the counter of one of the smaller stalls. She had a lot of random things for sale but when I laid eyes on this I just had to get it for you!" At that Krooked turned around and held out a necklace. It had a simple design, small wooden beads hung on a thin leather string with a large wooden pendant. The pendant had a symbol etched into the front that resembled Zecora's Cutie Mark but had the form of a moon instead of a sun. Zecora's eyes sparkled as she took the necklace into her hooves. The polished trinket glistened in the light as Krooked proceeded to put it on her. "This is beautiful Krooked! It means so much that you thought of me enough to get this!" She gave him a hug once it was around her neck. "I always thought about you... and I still do. Every time I went into a city I searched for something that I could give you as a gift. There were so many beautiful pieces that I knew would look wonderful on you but this necklace just reminded me so much of you that I just had to get it!" He smiled and gave Zecora a peck on the cheek. She returned it with a deeper kiss instead. "It makes me happy to hear that... I don't suppose you have anything going on in town do you?" Zecora smirked and began leading Krooked through the house to the bedroom. "Not that I know of. But I've never seen such a naughty look on your face." He chuckled and fell onto the bed with Zecora as she returned to her timid nature. Their lips connected as Krooked pulled the covers over them both while enjoying a loving embrace... A/N: No mature stuff this time around! I'm trying to move away from basing this story on sex and more on developing a cleaner story. I might have one more romance scene but if you're wanting something like that you'll have to tell me! I love suggestions!
A Problem Left UnsolvedA Problem Left Unsolved One Week Later... Zecora awoke suddenly to the sound of breaking glass. In mere seconds she was out of bed and in the kitchen where Krooked was kneeling over remains of a plate. "Are you alright Krooked? What happened?" Krooked jumped and looked up at her. "Oh! um, I just dropped a plate while making breakfast. Everything's fine I think..." Krooked bent down and began picking up the larger pieces. Zecora slowly went to her knees and began to help. "Why were you making breakfast? You could have asked me to cook something if you wanted." A small blush crept onto his cheeks. "I figured I could surprise you with breakfast in bed, but I guess I'm a little too clumsy for that kind of stuff." Zecora giggled which made Krooked's blush grow. Once the mess was cleaned Zecora walked over to the small stove to find a pan of half cooked eggs sitting on one of the small burners. Small wafts of smoke rose from the sides, telling her to flip them immediately. Zecora began to prepare other small sides when a knock came from the door. "I'll get it Zecora!" Krooked hurried to the front door while Zecora began cutting fruit into slices, letting the eggs cook on the range. Feeling curious, Zecora moved to the table with two dishes in order to set the table while stealing a glance. Shock can turn anypony into a clumsymess. Zecora was no different as she fumbled with the dishes until they came crashing down. Krooked stood in the doorway, blocking most of her view but Zecora knew who was behind him. "M-mother?" The slightly aged mare looked deep into his eyes, the worn glasses on her face enhanced her happy yet tired expression. "Krooked, it's been so long..." "What are you doing here? Come inside, quickly!" Krooked shut the door behind her as they walked into the main room. Zecora only stared as he helped with cleaning the pieces of plate shards. Once the mess was cleaned the couple took a seat across from Krooked's mother. Zecora sat very close to Krooked, unsure of what was going to happen. "Mother, you never said why you came here. I thought you didn't want to see me." The mare sighed and brushed a lock of her scarlet from her eyes, her bright blue coat seemed to have faded since Zecora last saw her. "I know you must be confused... and I know the things I said when you left..." One Year Ago... "What do you think you're doing Krooked?" Krooked's mother stood at the door as her son moved about his room. With each pass he held some article of clothing or personal possession. "I'm leaving." The blunt statement shocked her. "What do you mean you're leaving?" "Exactly what I said, I'm going on tour and after that I'm going to return to Ponyville." His mother's brain was having difficulties grasping what he said. "This is because of that Zecora witch isn't it?" Krooked stopped packing and looked at her. "Yes, you may not like it but I still love her... and she's no witch. She is a kind, beautiful mare who I would give the world away to be with." She simply stayed at the doorway when Krooked tried to leave. "Please don't go... Not yet..." "I have to, she's been alone for so long. I can't bare to have her wait any longer." Feelings of sorrow turned to anger. "How do you even know she's waiting for you?! For all you know she could have ran off with a random stallion!" Krooked looked her in the eyes, a hint of agitation glinted in his gaze. "She wouldn't do that. Even if she did I want to see her regardless so I don't feel like I abandoned her!" With that Krooked brushed past his mother without another word. She turned with a small tear in her eye. "Fine then, go on back to your witch! I didn't need to look out for you anyways!" The door slammed behind her once Krooked had left her view. Tears streamed down her cheeks as she curled into a ball on the floor... Present Day... "I'm so sorry for everything I said. After you left things just weren't the same..." She looked down at her hooves that laid in her laps. "...So I left to go and find you. I found your tour schedule but every time I reached the city you had already left. Eventually I finished here since I figured you wouldn't leave Ponyville." Krooked stared at her for awhile before any reply even crossed his mind. Then, as if out of nowhere Krooked spoke in an even voice. "But I'm not leaving Zecora." The said zebra instantly shift her focus to Krooked's mother. A worried worried feeling swept over her. "I know that dear, I also wanted to apologize to Zecora..." The mare looked at Zecora through shame and sorrow filled eyes. "... I'm sorry for everything I've done to you Zecora, I knew deep down that you were never a bad zebra. It's just when all the other ponies said those things about you I got so worried about my son. I never should have separated the two of you." Zecora swiftly stood up and moved so she was able to rest a hoof on her shoulder. "All I wanted was to get to know you. If you're willing to do that I'd be more than happy to forget everything... Mother." Krooked's mother looked at Zecora while fighting back tears of relief. They both wrapped their hooves around each other and pulled themselves into a soft hug. Zecora remembered this kind of hug from her own mother. Krooked coughed lightly to rouse their attention. "So mother, what are you going to do? Are you going to return home?" His mother smiled and hugged him as well. "Yes I am... To my true home in Ponyville." Krooked returned the hug once she had spoke. "Thank you for coming mother. I love you..." "I love you too son..." Two Days Later... "Wow, I can't believe Krooked's mom followed him all that time!" Cloud Chaser exclaimed from the bathroom across from her room. Zecora and Flitter nodded as they sat with two body pillows on the floor. Flitter broke the silence soon afterwards. "What was it like seeing her again for you Zecora?" "Well, it was very strange when I first saw her in our home. I didn't know if she was trying to take Krooked away again... But she turned out to be a very nice mare. We've been talking with each other almost the entire time she's been back. Now we're practically mother-daughter!" Zecora's eyes sparkled at the thought of having a parent back in her life. "I'm sure it must be nice then. What does she do for money now? If I remember correctly she used to help Twilight in the library." "Well you're almost correct, Krooked's mother bought one of the stalls in town square so that she can open a bookststand. All she's doing now is waiting for the books to be delivered." Just then Cloud Chaser entered the room and plopped down on Flitter's pillow. She rested her head on Flitter's lap which brought a blush to her cheeks. "Enough talk about mommy stuff! Do you want to go hangout with us at Sugarcube Corner Zecora?" "Oh, alright I guess. It's been awhile since I visited Pinkie Pie." "You haven't missed much, that crazy mare is still as random and cheerful as she's always been." Zecora giggled as the trio left the house and made their way for Sugarcube Corner...
A Time for Growing FriendshipA Time for Growing Friendship Almost as soon as the front door to the famous bakery swung open Zecora was brought into a hug so tight it felt like her ribs would crack. The pony assaulting her with love was none other than her pink colored friend. "Hey there Zecora! It's been sooo long since I last saw you! Well I guess it's only been a few days but it's felt like forever!" The pony continued to babble until Zecora was able to tap her arm lightly. "Pinkie... can't... breathe!" Pinkie quickly released her and helped Zecora stand. "Sorry Zecora, I just missed you sooo so much!" "It's alright Pinkie. But I didn't come alone." Pinkie looked up and squeaked with joy at the site of Zecora's company. "Hey Pinkie, still hyped up on cupcakes I see." Cloud Chaser smiled and took a seat at a nearby table along with Flitter. Pinkie practically threw two more chairs next to the table and made Zecora sit with her. Wow Zecora, it looks like your tummy has like, TRIPLED in size! I mean I guess it's impossible for it to grow so quickly but you're huge!" Pinkie giggled so much she let out a light snort which only made her laughter grow. Zecora smiled at her and rubbed her belly gently. "I guess I have grown a little lately. I wonder how long I have left." Zecora glanced at Flitter who wore a shocked face. "You haven't even asked for a guess? Why didn't you have the doctor tell you at least an estimate?" "Because it doesn't matter when I have my child. I'll find out for myself when the time is right. Besides it could only have been a little while ago so it's kind of pointless." "How long do you think it will be then? Zebra anatomy isn't exactly common knowledge." Zecora laughed at Cloud Chaser's comment. "Well from what I remember it usually lasts about a year." "Awww I wanted to be there to see the baby nooww!" Pinkie huffed and crossed her arms together to the laughs of the other three. "Who knows Pinkie, maybe you will be there to see it! I wont know till atleast a few days before it happens." Zecora's hyperactive friend immediately busted into another grin and hugged her once more. "Well I'll just stay by your side until that baby pops out!" Everypony giggled once more at her comment. After about an hour of idle chatting the three guests decided it was time to head back home. Each waved goodbye with Zecora being that last to make her way towards the door. "See ya Zecora! Make sure to come back soon, or I can come visit you since I've always wanted to see your home! Oh wait will Mr. And Mrs. Cake give me a day off? Oh well bye Zecora!" Pinkie waved her hoof frantically as Zecora left with a smile. She walked with Flitter and Cloud Chaser back to their home but stopped outside their door. "Are you sure you don't want to come in Zecora? Cloud Chaser and I were going to have some of this special coffee she found while visiting Cloudsdale!" Zecora smiled and shook her head politely. "I'm fine, I was hoping to spend some time with Krooked today so I can see how he and his mother are doing." Flitter attempted to push the matter but was quickly interrupted by one of Cloud Chaser's hooves that pulled her inside. "See ya' later Zecora!" Cloud Chaser swung the door closed as small whines were heard from Flitter. Zecora giggled to herself and started making her way back down the path leading to the Everfree Forest... Zecora's Hut... "Krooked I'm home!" Zecora announced while closing the front door behind her. She searched around the main room to find nopony in sight. "Krooked?" Zecora made her way to the bedroom when a pair of hooves wrapped themselves around her midsection. She let out an "eep" as Krooked spun her aound for a sudden kiss. "Hey there Zecora!" Krooked laughed when Zecora playfully punched him in the shoulder. "Don't startle me like that! I almost had a heart attack!" Zecora spoke with a generally cheerful smile that Krooked noticed easily. "You seem really happy today, did you have fun at Flitter's?" "Oh yes it was amazing! We went to see Pinkie Pie too." "How is she?" "Come on it's Pinkie Pie! She never anything but happy!" They both laughed and hugged once more. "So what have you been doing today?" Zecora spoke as Krooked led her to two pillows in a corner. Zecora sat down but Krooked moved to a drawer nearby and began digging through its contents. "I made you something else I thought you'd like!" Zecora sighed yet still smiled at the eager colt's back. "You don't have to keep giving me all of these gifts you know." Krooked turned around but kept one hoof behind his back. "But I loved making it! It was actually a lot of fun carving this for you!" As he spoke Krooked revealed a small heart shaped figure. The edges were slightly rough to show that it was hoof carved with what seemed to be a simple knife. The center of the heart was hollowed out and a skinny hole in the top told Zecora it was a small picture frame. A banner was carved underneath the heart with the words "Family is One of Nature’s Masterpieces..." "Oh Krooked it's beautiful! You did this all by yourself?" Krooked chuckled and scratched his head. "Well, I had some help with the writing but other than that it was me." Zecora kissed him on the cheek and placed the frame down. "I really do like it Krooked. We just need a picture to put in it now." She giggled and led Krooked to the bedroom and closed the door. "I think I can wait for that picture if you can." Krooked smirked and kissed her as they both fell onto the bed together... 6 Months Later... Zecora stretched her back as she watched the sitting form of Krooked. He scratched his chin while a half finished crib laid in pieces on the floor in a corner of the main room. His eyes browsed a small booklet on making the miniature bed. "Maybe we should have bought an actual crib. It's not like decorations and pendants." Krooked scoffed and continued to put bits and pieces together as Zecora sighed and rubbed her forehead. "Don't be silly! How am I going to get better if I don't at least try to make something with actual parts?" He remarked as a peg slid into the side of one of the legs. Zecora wasn't sure why Krooked had taken up woodcrafts as a hobby but she wasn't going to complain. All around the house hung many wooden figures of varying sizes and styles. She felt kind of bad though since Krooked had barely sung so much as a few words since he arrived. Wasn't that his favorite thing? It was his talent for crying out loud! "Hey Krooked..." "Yeah Zecora? Is something wrong?" "I was just thinking. You never sing or do anything musical for that matter. Why is that?" Krooked sighed and placed the piece he held on the ground. "I'm sorry! I didn't mean to pry." "No it's fine, I guess I just haven't felt like singing lately. Well I think a better way to explain it is it's just slipped my mind! With everything that's been happening with the baby and all..." Krooked scratched his head when an imaginary bulb lit up in his head. "Okay this will sound really random but I just had an amazing idea!"
