Summer's Dream

Chapters

A New Beginning
A Royal Encounter
Hot Coffee
Closing Time
Purblind
Lucid Dreams
Me, Myself and I

A New Beginning

The sun was shining brightly in Ponyville as the cream colored pegasus mare entered the town, her espresso man pulled back into a tail. Ponies would absently wave hello, just further emphasizing the friendliness. Which made sense, after all Ponyville is home to Twilight Sparkle, the Princess of Friendship.

That’s what brought Summer Breeze here. She was so tired of the ponies back home, in a small cloud village, who were always looking at her sideways. Now, the four princesses had decreed that there was nothing wrong with mares being mares, or stallions with stallions, yet there were still those that felt it wasn’t natural. Her hometown was one of those that still believed mares should only be with stallions. Nothing sinister was every done to those couples. Nothing physical that is. A couple of bits more for a bushel of carrots, maybe. Or being snubbed in favor of a mare and stallion couple to get a table at a dining house, perhaps. Nothing physical at all. All four of the princesses had decreed that hate crimes against same sex couples, or the rare trans mare or stallion, were to be met with the most severe of punishments. And if somepony were to die, well, Princess Luna had made it clear, there was a special place in Tartarus for the pony, or ponies, that were the cause. No pony wanted to chance that punishment. No pony at all.

Summer glanced around the market, noting the various ponies coming and going. She really wasn’t sure where to begin her search. She had purchased a home here, from the sale of her modest cloud house. All her belongings, not that many truth be told, were already here, somewhere.

*I really should have asked the movers for better directions,* she thought. As she turned to look for the town hall, she came face to face with merry blue eyes set in a smiling pink face. “Gah!” she exclaimed, jumping back slightly, her wings snapping open and causing her to hover above the ground, her forelegs across her chest.

The pink mare smiled at her. “Hi!” she said with extreme cheer. “You’re new here, because I know everypony here, and I hadn’t seen you before. Oh! I know, you must be the one who bought the cottage on the other side of town! I’m Pinkie Pie, and I know we’re going to be the best of friends!” This came out in such a rush that Summer wasn’t sure if she understood everything. She thought she caught the mare’s name, yet she wasn’t sure about the rest. She thought she caught her mentioning a cottage.

“Uhm, hello,” Summer said uncertainly. “Yes, this is the first time I’ve been to Ponyville… I’m sorry, Pinkie Pie was it? But, did you mention something about a cottage?”

“Indeedily do, I did!” Pinkie grinned. Then her grin faltered slightly, “Oh, did I do it again? I’m sorry, I get so excited about meeting new ponies. And Twilight said I should tone it down a little, especially with new ponies that just moved here.” Her expressive blue eyes showing a hint of sadness.

Summer was taken aback. Here was this perfect stranger, that surprised the hay out of her by popping up out of nowhere. And now she was honestly sad that she been slightly overbearing in her introduction. And she knew the princess! Summer smiled hesitantly. “It’s okay, Pinkie Pie,” she said.

At that Pinkie grew more cheerful, and Summer could have sworn the mare’s pink mane had actually gotten puffier. “Oh, you can just call me Pinkie!” she said with much more cheer.

“Ok, Pinkie, I’m Summer Breeze. But I go by Summer most of the time. It’s usually easier to yell out,” she said the last with a slight sigh.

Pinkie cocked her head to the side slightly. “Why would I yell your name? Oh, wait, I know! You’re accident prone, and strange things almost bonk you on the head? No, you don’t look like that happens to you… Oh, oh, I know! It’s so I can get your attention when you're on the other side of the market!”

Summer landed back on the ground, having just realized that she was still hovering. With a heavy sigh, she said, “No, it's to tell me to stop staring at some mare’s flank.” Summer’s eyes went wide as she realized what she just said. She stared in horror at Pinkie, dreading what the mare would say. She was completely surprised when Pinkie smiled even more, and her eyes lit up with glee. And it wasn't that malicious glee that Summer was used to seeing. It was foal-in-a-candy-store glee.

“Silly filly! I’d never say anything like that… Well, unless you were staring at Lyra, or Bon Bon, or Vinyl, or Octavia, or Rarity, or Fluttershy, or Rainbow Dash, or Twilight’s flank. Because they’re all happy couples! Well, Lyra and Bon Bon are, and Vinyl and Tavi,” Pinkie paused. “Why are you looking at me like that?”

Summer’s jaw had progressively dropped as Pinkie spoke. *No way!* she thought, *there is no way they are that open here! Can they be?* Shaking her head, she looked at Pinkie. “You’re telling me that filly foolers are that open here?” she asked incredulously.

Pinkie vigorously nodded her head so much she began to bounce in place. “Sure are!” she exclaimed. Then leaned in closely and whispered, “But we don’t call them filly foolers. Twilight doesn't like that term, since she and Dashie adopted Scootaloo.” Here Pinkie got very serious, “She says it makes them sound like they’re doing bad things to little fillies.” Pinkie nodded her head, then broke into that cheerful grin again. “Everypony just calls them marefriends.”

Summer glanced around, then looked Pinkie dead in the eyes. Pinkie noticed that her green eyes were getting watery. “Are you ok, Summer?” she asked. Summer could tell by Pinkie’s voice that she was genuinely concerned. All Summer could do was nod slightly, as she closed her eyes. A single tear slid down her cheek. Summer’s eye sprung open in shock a moment later, as she was engulfed in a warm hug. “Hey, there, no crying,” Pinkie said quietly. Summer gingerly returned the hug. She was rather shocked. She knew that they were more open here. She just wasn’t expecting them to be this open. And now she was in the middle of the market getting hugged by another mare she has just met. Her eyes darted around wildly. She pulled back slightly from Pinkie when she spied a cream mare with blue and pink mane cautiously walking toward them. Pinkie released her hold on Summer, then turned her head spying the other mare. “Hi, Bon Bon!” she exclaimed. At this hearty greeting, Bon Bon walked up faster.

“Hey, Pinkie. Everything ok?” the last directed to Pinkie, while Bon Bon focused on Summer.

“I don’t know,” Pinkie replied. “Summer Breeze is new here, and I think I over did it again. I was just explaining that marefriends were open here, and she just got sad looking and started crying. Please don’t tell Twilight! I’m trying to be helpful!” Pinkie grew more and more agitated, until Bon Bon placed her hoof on her shoulder, getting her attention.

“Hey, Pinks, it okay,” Bon Bon said. “I don’t think Summer is sad, just a little overwhelmed.” Turning to Summer directly. “Let me guess, small town? Pretty much everypony there thinks you should settle down with a nice stallion?”

Summer nodded. “Yes,” she replied, “How’d you know?”

Bon Bon smirked slightly. “Been there, done that. Until I moved here with Lyra, after hearing that Octavia and Vinyl live here when they’re not touring in their individual music professions.”

“I’m sorry, but that name keeps coming up. Vinyl who?” Summer said.

Pinkie Pie started giggling, while Bon Bon smiled. “Vinyl Scratch, also known as DJ Pon3. She’s the best DJ that’s come up in a long time. Moved out here when Octavia got tired of Manehattan. I swear, Vinyl will do anything to make sure Octavia is happy.”

“Wait! DJ Pon3 lives here?! I knew Octavia had a marefriend, but I didn’t know it was Pon3.” Summer said.

“Eeyup!” exclaimed Pinkie, “she does all the music at my parties now. Oh, and you’re not sad anymore!”

Summer chuckled, “I wasn’t really sad. Just slightly overwhelmed, like Bon Bon said. Marefriends out in the open, everypony in town knows. And it doesn’t bother anypony. It’s like a dream come true.”

Bon Bon chuckled, “Yes, it really is like a dream come true. And it doesn’t hurt our reigning princess here also has a marefriend of her own. Plus they adopted a little filly! So it just makes it that much better. Well, I hate to cut this short, but I’ve got to get the groceries home. Celestia knows what Lyra got into for lunch. I swear, she’s like a foal sometimes, eating anything she can get her hooves on, regardless of whether it’s good for her or not. I’ll talk to you later Pinkie Pie. It was a pleasure meeting you, Summer Breeze.”

“Please, just Summer is fine. And it was a pleasure meeting you, Bon Bon,” she said smiling. Bon Bon smiled and nodded before trotting off to get her saddle bags she left at one of the market stalls. Summer turned toward Pinkie, fully intent on asking the mare directions to her cottage. Now that she got her emotions under control, she really did want to get to her new home, start unpacking before wondering the town.

As she started to ask Pinkie where the cottage was, Pinkie turned to her with a huge grin. “Hey! Looks like you get to make some more new friends!” she said as she pointed to the sky. Summer looked up and her heart stopped. There, gently gliding in, was a cyan pegasus with a rainbow mane, an orange filly perched on her back grinning ear to ear. That wasn’t Summer’s cause for concern. It was the lavender alicorn flying next to the cyan mare. None other than Princess Twilight Sparkle was fast approaching.

A Royal Encounter

“Back wing, Twi, back wing!” Rainbow Dash called out, as the alicorn rushed past her. Twilight’s face contorted in concentration as she attempted to do as Rainbow said. Concentration turned to panic as she realized she wasn’t back winging correctly and the ground was approaching rapidly.

Summer watched as Twilight flew in, her eyes wide in shock. Movement from the corner of her eye drew her attention. She turned her head to stare at Pinkie Pie who now had a box of popcorn in her hoof watching Twilight, with a grin on her face. “Oh, Twilight is getting so much better at flying! You might want to take two steps to your left there, Summer.”

Summer did as Pinkie suggested, not even sure why she did so. She looked back up just in time to see Twilight land hard. Her forward momentum enough that she continued forward to stumble and finally stop, right where Summer had been standing. *How the hay did she know that’s where she was going to stop?!* she thought.

Pinkie clapped her hooves together. “Yay! You did so much better this time, Twilight!” she happily cheered, as confetti showered around Twilight.

“Hehe, thanks Pinkie,” she said. Twilight smiled as she brushed the confetti from her mane, fluffing her wings to shake the rest loose. She turned around just in time to see Rainbow touch down with one rear hoof, then dropping the other three at once. Her trademark smirk on her lips, her eyes twinkling with suppressed laughter.

“Hit a little hard there, Twi. I thought for sure you were going to be practicing to help AJ plow the fields,” Rainbow said.

“Very funny, Rainbow. Keep it up and I know a mare that’s sleeping alone tonight,” Twi said with a smirk.

Rainbow raised an eyebrow. “Oh, really? If I’m sleeping alone, then you will be too.”

Twilight walked up to Rainbow, a slight sway in her step. Rainbow licked her lips, anticipating a make up kiss. Twilight always acted seductive when she was going to give in to Rainbow, and she loved it.

“Not necessarily,” Twilight said as her horn lit up, one eyebrow cocked up.

“Hey! Leave me out of it guys!” a voice squeaked from behind Rainbow’s head, as Scootaloo was levitated off her back, laughing.

Twilight floated Scootaloo over to her side, setting her down carefully. She laid a wing across Scootaloo’s back, looking at Rainbow. “Scootaloo can always sleep with me,” she quipped, giggling at the shocked look on Rainbow’s face.

Scootaloo leaned into Twilight’s side, loving it when Twilight or Rainbow would give her wing hugs. She looked at Rainbow then Twilight, before coming to a decision. “Hey, mom,” she said, nudging Twilight, “I thought you said it wasn’t nice to tease other ponies.”

Twilight glanced down at her pensively. With a smile, she nodded. “You’re right, Scootaloo. And I’m sorry Rainbow, I shouldn’t have teased you.”

Rainbow winked at Scootaloo, before turning to Twilight fully. “Aw, that’s ok, Twi. I really shouldn’t have teased you either. So, I’m sorry too.” She sat down on her haunches, ducking her head slightly to hide that she was desperately fighting the smirk from showing up.

Twilight squeezed Scootaloo with her wing before folding it back to her side. She walked up to Rainbow, leaned in and gently raised her head up. When she could look into Rainbow’s eyes, all she could see was love and laughter, and a smirk playing at her lips. With a chuckle Twilight laid a chaste kiss on Rainbow’s lips. “You get to come to bed tonight,” she said with a wink.

Rainbow blushed, because she knew exactly what was in store tonight. With a grin she turned to Pinkie, who was sitting off to the side, still eating her popcorn with a grin on her face.

“D’aww! That was so sweet!” Pinkie said, before hopping up and bouncing in place for a moment. “Oh, oh, oh! You guys! This is Summer Breeze! She’s new to Ponyville, she bought the cottage on the other side of town, and right now she’s trying to sneak away because she’s shy and thinks she’ll embarrass herself in front of Twilight!”

Summer stopped in her tracks, for she truly was trying to sneak away before the princess noticed she had not only made a not so graceful landing, but showed affection in public in front of a complete stranger. She hunched her shoulders as she turned around, fully expecting to see the princess frowning, or worse, angry. What she saw when she faced them was another story. Twilight had sat down next to Rainbow, a smile on her face, with Scootaloo tucked in between them. Rainbow’s left wing was draped over the little filly, while Twilight’s right covered them both.

“So,” Rainbow began, “you bought that little cottage over by the castle?”

Summer let out a squeak, her eye’s going wide. *By the castle? No, no, no, this is bad!* she thought panicking. She couldn’t live that close to the princess. She was so afraid now that she was giving a bad impression. She started breathing rapidly, and her wings trembling.

A delicate cough pulled her attention. Twilight lowered her left wing from her muzzle. A small smile on her face. “I’m afraid we haven’t been properly introduced. This is my marefriend, Rainbow Dash, and our daughter, Scootaloo.” Rainbow nodded her head, and Scootaloo smiled while ducking her head, a blush making her cheeks rosy. Twilight continued, “And I’m Twilight Sparkle. And judging by how you're to the point of hyperventilating and your wings are trembling, you think you’re making a poor first impression. Am I right?” She kept a small smile, not too big to make one think she thought it was funny, and not too small that one would think it was fake.

Summer slowly nodded her head. Somehow Twilight was calming her with just words. Words, and action. Summer really looked at the family, and quickly realized that is exactly what they were. *They’re just a happy family,* she thought, *Out enjoying… What? Flying lessons! Rainbow was teaching Twilight how to fly better! Pinkie had said Twilight was getting better. Oh, my gosh! They just want to be treated like everypony else!* Her breathing slowed down slightly, as her wings stopped trembling as noticeably. She smiled shyly as she spoke, “Yes, your highness.”

Rainbow chuckled as Twilight blushed. “Just Twilight is fine, Summer Breeze. I really don’t care to be called that, even when I’ll performing my royal duties,” she chuckled nervously. “I was just a unicorn before all this happened. And if it wasn’t for my friends I wouldn’t even be an alicorn.”

“Thank you, your…” Rainbow snickered, “I mean, Twilight,” Summer stammered slightly. *I am never going to get used to that, best try to stay out of their way,* she thought. *Yeah, right. New house is by the castle, I’ll probably be running into them on a daily basis.* “So, uhm… Pinkie!” She looked around baffled for the pink mare, who had disappeared. “Where did she go?”

Rainbow started laughing so hard that she fell on her side. Scootaloo snickered behind her hooves at Rainbow, while Twilight looked down at the cyan mare. With a shake of her head she looked over to Summer. “Pinkie does that, just shows up and leaves without you knowing how she does it. I’ve tried to figure out how she does, yet I can’t put my hoof on it. It’s just Pinkie. Was there something you needed?”

“Well, to be honest,” Summer hesitated, then continued with Twilight’s encouraging nod. “I really don’t know where the house is. You see I bought it without coming out. I saw pictures of it, and the price was right. So, I just went ahead and packed everything I had, sold the old place and used the bits to hire a local moving company. And that was my mistake, I guess. They knew exactly where the house was and picked everything up and brought it here. I got directions, but nothing real good… and I’m rambling, I am so sorry!” She covered her mouth with her hooves, her eyes going wide that she had just started rambling.

Rainbow Dash had finally gotten her laughing fit under control and looked over at Summer, still laying on the ground. “Local movers, huh? One of them a grey mare, blond mane?” she asked. Summer nodded. “Heh, that was Derpy. Nice mare, real sweet, has a great little filly. But, she’s not all together sometimes. And since you’re way over here in the market, and the castle is way back there, she probably got her north and south mixed up, again. She means well, she really does.”

Summer looked behind the trio and finally saw the castle. *How the buck did I miss that! Great, made a fool of myself rambling, now I’m clear over the other side of town. Meh, I’ll live, just have to sight see tomorrow I guess,* she thought. “Thank you, Rainbow. I never did catch her name, but yeah, she was really sweet.”

Twilight nodded her head, catching Summer’s attention. “I’m sure you’d like to get home then, now that you know where it is. I’m really sorry we took up your time,” Summer tried to interrupt, yet Twilight wouldn’t hear of it. “No, really. Here I am almost running into you on landing. I saw you step over just before I hit the ground, no doubt thanks to Pinkie suggesting you move,” Summer nodded. “And here we were making a little spectacle of ourselves, or at least I was. And you were so kind to stand here and listen to us.” Twilight finished with a giggle.

“Yeah, thanks for that,” Rainbow chipped in. “Twi doesn’t get to meet new ponies that treat her like everypony else.” She held her hoof out to Summer, who nodded and bumped her own against it. “Come on squirt, let’s go find dinner,” Rainbow nudged Scootaloo. The two started to walk off towards one of the restaurants on the other side of the market. “You coming, Twilly?”

“Yeah, be right there,” Twilight answered. Turning to Summer she said, “Just go down the road there, keep the castle in front and you’ll see your house on the left. It was the only one up for sale recently, and Ponyville might be a large town, everypony knows what’s going on around here. It’s uncanny sometimes. Oh! And there’s a little cafe that sells coffee, teas, and some of Sugar Cube Corner’s pastries on the way. I stop by there sometimes, especially when Rainbow starts telling me I’ve been in the castle too long. It was very nice meeting you, Summer Breeze, and I hope you love living here!” Twilight trotted off with a wave.

Summer waved back, slightly bemused. *The princess just informed me of the cafe she goes to. When her marefriend nags her to get out of the castle,* she mused. With a chuckle, she turned around and began following the road, keeping the castle in front of her. *And if she recommends this cafe, then it’s got to have something decent. I mean, the princess of friendship drinks there.*

Hot Coffee

The white unicorn, her light blue mane in a bun, stood behind the counter, with her chin propped in her hooves. She glanced around the cafe. Nopony else was there, even being after lunch when most ponies would stop in for a coffee, or tea, or one of the smaller treats she got from Sugar Cube Corner. The front of the cafe was clean, nopony was in the back, and besides it was clean as well. She was all alone. And she was bored. She let out a dramatic sigh. Then glanced around again, even though the bell over the door hadn’t rung. Still nopony but her. She took a deep breath, puffed her cheeks, and blew out a raspberry. “Argh! Why does this have to be a slow day?” she said out loud.

With another sigh she crossed her forelegs and laid her head on the countertop. Closing her eyes she stood there and waited. And waited some more. With a groan she opened her eyes, intent on finding something in the back of the cafe to occupy her time, to stop and wonder how Pinkie Pie got in without the door chiming. Then thought better of it. *Don’t ask, you’ll just get a headache,* she thought to herself.

“Hey, Pinkie. What brings you by?” She asked smiling, as she lifted her head off the counter.

“Oh, nothing much, Mystique. I just thought I’d stop in, see how everything was. Did you need anything ordered from Sugar Cube?” Pinkie asked, as she leaned on the counter as well.

“Hmmm,” Mystique pondered, as she rubbed her chin with a hoof. “Honestly, Pinkie, I’m not sure. Why dont you head to the back and check my stock. If you don’t mind that is. You know what I usually order.”

Pinkie stepped back from the counter. “Sure thing, Mystie! Oh, and summer sure is hot,” she said as she walked around the counter and disappeared in the back. Leaving Mystique standing there looking after the pink mare perplexed.

*What the hay made her say that,* she thought as she turned back around. *I swear, that mare gets stranger and stranger every year. We're not even in summer, spring just started, the nights are chilly still.* With a shake of her head and a shrug, Mystique stepped around the counter. She grabbed a dust clothe with her magic, a pale blue aura enveloping it. She walked toward the back, intent on some change in routine. Normally she started in the front, yet now she chose the back first. “Might as well do something constructive,” she muttered.

As she worked on the tables, she started humming. The humming grew from just notes to a melody, the melody turning to words as she began to sing softly.

“I'm here to show you who I am,”

“Threw off the veil, it's finally time,”

“There's more to me than glitz and glam, oh-whoa,”

“And now I feel my stars align,”

“For I had believed what I was sold,”

“I did all the things that I was told,”

“But all that has changed, and now I'm bold,”

“'Cause I know,”

The bell over the door tinkled gentle, as Summer eased the door open. Mystique didn’t notice, her back being toward the door. As she continued singing softly, a soft murmur to Summer’s ears, her hips started swaying gently. Summer watched mesmerized, as Mystique’s tail took a counter rhythm to her hip sway. For the space of three breathes, Summer was completely entranced by the gentle swishing of hips and tail. Just as she was going to politely cough to draw the other mare’s attention Mystique began to sing louder, making Summer stop, so entranced by her voice.

“And let the magic in my heart stay true,”

“Whoa-whoa-whoa-whoa,”

“And let the magic in my heart stay true,”

“Whoa-whoa-whoa-whoa,”

“Just like the magic inside of you,”

“And now I see those colors,”

“Right before my eyes,”

“I hear my voice so clearly,”

“And I know that it is right,”

Mystique quickly pirouetted around on her hind legs, the next verse dying on her lips as she saw the cream mare staring at her. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, she didn't normally sing in public, except in front of very good friends. She was bold, yes, yet rather shy about her novice singing skills. Quickly shaking off her embarrassment, she left the dust clothe on a table and quickly trotted to the counter.

“Welcome to Mystic Brews!” she said cheerfully. “I’m Mystique, what can I get for you?”

“Mystic Brews?” Summer asked, an eyebrow raised.

Mystique chuckled. “Eeyup! It’s my poor attempt at a play of words. My name’s Mystique, and coffee is brewed. So Mystic Brews was born! I know, it’s rather lame, but it was the best I could come up with, and well, now it’s stuck.”

Summer shook her head. “Oh, no! I don’t think it’s lame. It’s rather clever, really. I wouldn't have come up with something like that.”

Mystique smiled at her. “Thank you, I appreciate that. Now, since you listened to my woeful story of naming the cafe,” she chuckled, “what would you like?”

“I… I’m not sure, really. You see, Princess Twilight suggested I stop here. Since she comes in. And well, I really don’t know what you serve,” Summer said, her head dropping slightly feeling somewhat silly.

Mystique smiled and nodded. “Yeah, Twilight comes in once in a while. Mainly when Rainbow shoos her out of the library. Personally, I think Rainbow practically throws her out, probably from one of the windows." Summer gasped, but Mystique waved her hoof. "Oh, Rainbow wouldn't do anything to harm Twilight." She leaned in slightly, "She probably drags and prods her to the closest exit. And for Rainbow, that's either a door, or window." She finished with a chuckle and wink, causing Summer to giggle.

"So, as for what I serve, I can make anything that's coffee based. Or pretty darn close. If coffee isn't to your liking, I also have a good variety of teas, both hot and cold, as well as different juices, and smoothies. And if you feel peckish, I do have some treats from Sugar Cube Corner. Not a wide variety, though, just something to snack on while you relax and enjoy your drink. That was the CMC’s idea.”

“I’m sorry, the CMC?” Summer asked.

“Oh, I’m sorry!” Mystique face hoofed. “You just got into town, so of course you don’t know who I’m talking about. The CMC is the Cutie Mark Crusaders. Three little fillies whose talent together is showing other ponies what their talent truly is. They're Applebloom, Applejack’s little sister, Sweetie Belle, Miss Rarity’s sister, and Scootaloo, Twilight and Rainbow’s adopted daughter.”

“I’ve met Scootaloo,” Summer said, nodding. “She was such polite little filly. And I don’t think it was because her mothers were there.”

Mystique nodded in agreement, “Yeah, all three of them are real sweet. That’s why I took their suggestion of having snacks.” She chuckles, “They usually come in once a week now, after school.”

Summer smiled, then glanced up at the black boards mounted behind the counter. “Uhm, I’m still not sure what to order, though.”

“Hmm,” Mystique muttered. “OK, how about this. I’ll pick something out, and if you don’t like it, anything else is on the house.”

“Ok, that sounds like a plan,” Summer smiled.

“Cool! Now, let me see. You look like somepony that enjoys chocolate.” Summer vigorously nodded at this. Mystique chuckled, “Right then! Won’t be but a moment.” She turned around, glancing at the various ingredients. A mischievous grin spreading on her muzzle. With a quick nod, she lit her horn, grabbing a to go cup. Placing it by the espresso machine, she opened one of the coolers, pulling out chocolate syrup. Squeezing a measured amount into the cup, she glanced over her shoulder at Summer who was looking at the pastry case, then deliberately shot more into the cup. Placing two demi cups under the spout of the espresso she started it up as she added a splash of a creamed coffee colored liquid to the cup, then adding ice. Pouring the contents of the cup into a blender, she started it running as she emptied the demitasse cups into the take out, swirling it gently to get the remainder of syrup mixed up. The blender cut off, Mystique emptied the blended beverage into the cup, placing a lid on it. Turning around she placed the cup in front of Summer, and with a little flourish removed the wrapper of a straw, placing it in the hole of the lid.

Summer glanced at the cup, tentatively pulling it closer. She eyed the straw for a moment, glancing at Mystique who nodded at her encouragingly. Summer placed the straw in her mouth, drawing the liquid into her mouth. When it hit her tongue, her eyes widened, and she swallowed. Glancing again at Mystique, she grabbed the cup in both hooves and greedily sucked on the straw.

“Whoa, slow down a little, filly! You’ll get an ice cream headache drinking like that,” Mystique laughed.

Summer stopped, quickly swallowing. “Oh, my! I’ve never had anything this good!”

Mystique nodded, a very pleased smile on her lips. “Good, I’m glad. I took a chance there. Not many ponies like a blended iced mocha with espresso added in. Some think the espresso makes it too bitter. Personally I like the extra punch.”

“It’s perfect,” Summer said. “In fact, I think this is going to be my go to drink.” She grinned.

“Well,” Mystique said, “in that case, this one is on the house.” As Summer started to protest, Mystique interrupted her, “Nope, on the house. I’ve got you hooked now, and you’ll be coming in regularly.” She giggled, her eyes widening slightly. *What in Tartarus? I don’t giggle!*

Summer nodded, “If you insist, but I’m leaving a tip and you can’t stop me.” She grinned as she dropped two bits into the tip jar. “Thanks again, Mystique. Maybe I’ll see you in the morning?” she asked.

“Sure thing! And hey, if it’s chilly, I’ve got a recipe you’ll like that’ll warm you up,” Mystique replied. She was already planning out something she could brew for the mare, *Something with chocolate for sure. Maybe whipped cream… I wonder what she’d do for chocolate cream.* Blinking her eyes, wondering where that thought came from, she noticed Summer turning to leave. “I open pretty early, for the folks that start their days early, so feel free to come on in if you see lights on.”

Summer nodded as she replied, “Sure thing! Well, I’ll see you in the morning then!” She smiled as she opened the door with a wing, her cup secured in her fetlock. Waving her other wing she walked out the door.

As soon as the door closed, Pinkie spoke up from the back room. “See, I told you Summer was pretty hot.” Mystique turned around, her jaw dropping as she stared at Pinkie. “Got the list, you’re not that low, so I’ll head back to Sugar Cube and get started so you have a fresh batch in the morning on what you’re low on. Talk to you later, Mystie!”

As Pinkie headed out the door, Mystique barely got her thoughts running again, yet too late to voice them. *That sneaky mare!* she thought with a chuckle, *She wasn’t talking about the season, she was talking about a pony. Summer, huh? Pretty name, to go with a pretty mare. Whoa, slow down there Mystique! You just met her. Maybe you’re not her type,* she thought with a sigh.

“Oh, Mystie!” Pinkie’s head popped into one of the windows. “I don’t think Summer Breeze has a job yet. You might offer her one, you know, since you did say it’d be nice to have somepony around to help, and talk to. Laters!” In a pink puff she was gone again, leaving Mystique to seriously ponder what she said.

Closing Time

Mystique ran on autopilot after Pinkie had left. She got a few regulars in for the rest of the day, greeting them warmly and fixing their usuals. She was just preoccupied by what Pinkie had said before she left. *Maybe I should offer her a position here,* she thought, *Yet, I giggled. I don’t giggle. I haven’t giggled since I was a filly.* She was in the process of closing up now that Celestia had lowered the sun. There was an hour or so before she closed, many of the ponies in town didn’t come out to the cafe after Luna raised the moon. It really was too late by then to sit and have a coffee and expect to go home and sleep. And, she did open early for those that started their days early. Even though tomorrow was Saturday, she still got up early.

*Darn you Pinkie! Why did you have to be cryptic, then hit me with her name?* she thought exasperated. “Really, I don’t need this!” Mystique grumbled.

“Don’t need what, darling?” Rarity asked as she walked in. The white mare was immaculate as always, although she still had her signature red half moon glasses on.

*Oh, great, now I’m talking out loud to myself! What is wrong with me?* Turning to Rarity, Mystique dredged up a professional smile. “Oh, nothing, Miss Rarity. Just thinking about something that happened earlier today,” she said has professionally polite as she could manage. Then she noticed Rarity’s glasses. “Are you okay, ma’am? I don’t mean to pry, but you still have your glasses on. And, well, you don’t normally wear them out.”

“Oh, my!” Rarity chuckled. Glancing down, her eyes crossing rather comically, at her glasses. “Oh, bother,” she huffed, “Yes, dear, I’m fine. Just got so wrapped up in a new design for the Canterlot Boutique, and then I was reminded that I hadn’t picked up my tea from you yet. And, well, I simply rushed over and never bothered to take them off.”

Mystique smiled, “Ah, of course. Your monthly order, I almost forgot myself. Just a moment, I’ll go get it.”

“Really, dear, I’m in no hurry. I rushed over so as not to put you out with one of your customers not getting their order on time,” Rarity said as she trotted over to the counter. Noting no other ponies were there, she relaxed and fixed her gaze on Mystique. “But, now I must ask. Are you alright? You sounded rather, hmmm, out of sorts before I came in.”

Mystique stopped before opening the swinging door to the back. *Should I?* she thought. *Rarity is one of my regulars. And she has asked my advice on little things for Fluttershy.* Making up her mind, she turned back to Rarity. “Honestly. No, I’m not alright.” Sitting down, keeping the counter between them, she cocked her head. “I may have made a slight fool of myself earlier today. And, well, Pinkie Pie didn’t help, being rather cryptic when she stopped over.”

Rarity nodded, sitting down as well. “Yes, Pinkie does tend to do that. But, what, pray tell, happened? You don’t have to go into detail, if you don’t wish. Yet, sometimes just saying what you're thinking about out loud to another pony helps get your thoughts together and provide an answer. And of course, if you’d like, I can give you advice, if I have any.”

With a soft sigh, Mystique closed her eyes. Then, taking a breath, opened her eyes and spoke. “Pinkie stopped in, made a remark about something, what exactly doesn't really matter. But, shortly after she went into the back to check my stock of pastries, a… Pony came by, her first time in Ponyville. We chatted a little, I made her a drink,” a slight pause accompanied by a smile she didn’t know she had. “She said she’d come by in the morning, and I said I’d whip something up for her if it was chilly I was sure she’d enjoy. She left, I didn’t get her name. And all the remarks I made, well, I think I made a fool of myself.”

“Really, darling? Is that all? I don’t think you made a fool of yourself. You didn’t suddenly shout you wanted to bed her, did you?” Rarity asked with a wink, causing Mystique to blush.

“N.. No, nothing like that!” she exclaimed. “I don’t think I would be standing here if I had. I’d probably be halfway to Baltimare if I did.” Mystique took another deep breath, trying to calm herself. “I just kept babbling. Then there’s the drink I made for her. I added more chocolate than usual, and I have no idea why. And then I thought about whipped cream,” Mystique snapped her jaw shut. Her slight blush now three shades darker. *No, no, no! I didn’t just…* her thoughts cut off as Rarity chuckled.

“Whipped cream, hmm?” she asked with a wink. “I can think of a few things to do with whipped cream. Makes a lovely garnish on hot chocolate, or pies.” With a sly look, Rarity continued, her voice taking a husky tone, “Or a special somepony.”

*That’s it, I’m dead! I have to be, that is the only way I can survive this embarrassment,* Mystique thought. She could feel her cheeks getting even warmer. “Yeah, hot chocolate and pie go great with whipped cream,” she rushed out, “Let me go get your tea. Be right back!” She stood up, intent on rushing through the door.

“I’m sorry dear, I was only teasing. Let me hazard a guess, though. This mare that got your attention, she’s cream colored, with a mane that’s so dark brown it’s almost black? Green eyes?” Rarity asked sympathetically.

Mystique stopped, the door held open. She turned her head back, her eyes wide, staring at Rarity. “Her eyes are green? How did I not notice that?”

“Hmmm? Oh, simple darling, you were too busy looking everywhere else,” Rarity teased. “But, I’m being cruel. I’ve got you worked up even more than when I came in,” she said, as she placed a hoof on the counter. “Mystique, dear, let me reassure you. I do not think you made a fool of yourself,” cutting Mystique off with a wave, “Let me finish, please. I saw the mare in question on my way back to the boutique from the castle. She was still drinking that special concoction you made. And I do hope you remember exactly how to reproduce it, judging by the look of bliss she had. She didn’t look like somepony had made a fool of themselves in front of her. So I do believe you are being too harsh on yourself,” Rarity finished with a firm nod.

“Really?” Mystique asked. At Rarity’s nod, she continued, “Ok, if you say so. But, that’s not the only thing on my mind.” Rarity raised an eyebrow in inquiry. “Pinkie hinted that Summer might not have a job, then flat out said I should offer her one. But, should I? I mean, she is cute, sweet Celestia is she cute. And I’d like to get to know her better. But, what if working for me turns her off from wanting to get to know me?” Mystique whined slightly.

Rarity held Mystique’s gaze. “I see,” she paused, “Offer her the job. And this is why. Pinkie suggested it.” At Mystique’s confused look Rarity continued, “Pinkie knows many things, things even Twilight can’t explain. Yet, we accept what she says. And if she suggests something, there’s a good reason. And it normally turns out right for the parties involved.”

“Well, okay, if you’re sure,” Mystique replied.

“Very, very sure, my dear,” Rarity said, her head held high. “Sleep on it tonight, trust me, you’ll see that it’s a wonderful idea.”

Mystique nodded. “I will, and thank you. I appreciate you taking the time to listen.”

“Nonsense, Mystique, I’m glad to lend an ear,” Rarity replied, a happy lilt to her voice.

Mystique nodded again, not sure what else to say to that. “Let me get your tea, I’ve taken up so much of your time.” She turned back to the door, her horn lighting up. A medium box pushed the door open as it floated to the counter. Mystique released her magical grip once the case was safely on the counter.

Rarity glanced at the case with a smile. “Thank you, Mystique. You don’t know how much I appreciate you ordering me this every month.” She placed a bit bag on the counter, then levitated the case up. Turning to the door she started to leave. Stopping just in front, Rarity turned, looking Mystique in the eyes. “Remeber dear, don't stress, and just sleep on the idea of the young mare working for you.”

Mystique nodded, using her magic to open the door for Rarity. “I will, I promise,” she replied, “If you think Pinkie knows something that for the best for either of us, I’ll talk to Summer in the morning about working for me.”

“Good, good. Yet, don’t mention to her about Pinkie suggesting it, or why. She just moved here, and one encounter with Miss Pie might make her… Hesitant, shall we say, to any suggestions she might make. At least until she’s been here long enough to get to know Pinkie better.” Rarity smiled, nodding her head again, before turning to leave. “Have a pleasant evening, Mystique. Fluttershy and I may stop by soon. I’m sure she’d enjoy a relaxing cup of tea after a spa trip.”

“Good night, Miss Rarity, and I look forward to you both stopping by. And I won’t mention Pinkie to her.” Mystique watched her leave, closed the door, locking it with her magic. With a sigh, she glanced around the cafe. *Clean enough,* she thought. Turning to a section of wall between the employee entrance and the cafe dining room, she laid her hoof on a seam in the paneling. Pressing inward slightly, a section of wall depressed before popping back outwards. Taking her hoof off, the slipped it between the gap and swung the section toward herself revealing a staircase to the second floor. She used to have a regular door there, yet one too many curious foals, and a couple of adults who didn’t know better, had gone up to her private living area. She put the false panel in, and no longer had to hunt down a customer who went in, making her life much easier.

With another quiet sigh, she ascended the stars. She was exhausted, and she just knew she was going to be asleep quickly. *Better for me, then I’ll hopefully will get enough rest to deal with the morning crowd. And Summer,* she thought as she stepped into her modest bedroom. Nothing really made the room stand out. A medium sized bed sat against the wall directly opposite the door. A small blonde nightstand sat on either side, each holding a plain white pole lamp with a plain white shade. A light cream area rug sat in the middle, almost blending in with the unstained pine flooring.

Mystique walked across the floor, not bothering turning any lights on, Luna’s moon light filtering in the window providing enough illumination. She lifted the bed clothes up by hoof. She was tired, and knowing she would soon be in bed and fast asleep, she was rapidly losing focus. Almost as if a sleep spell had been cast on her. Mystique chuckled at that thought as she slid in bed, pulling the sheet and light eggshell blanket up to her shoulder. She rolled over to her side, away from the window, facing the wall that made up the outer wall above the dining room. With another sigh, she closed her eyes. A little wiggle finding just the right spot and she was quickly falling asleep. As her breathing slowed, she drifted off to sleep. Soon the only sound was her breathing in the still room.

Purblind

Mystique moaned quietly as her head hung off the counter in the cafe, her eyes closed, a look of complete bliss on her face. She was laying on her back, her forelegs tucked to her chest, between the register and the pastry case. There was not a lot of room, yet she was quite comfortable. The cause for this was her lover. She was paying quite a bit of attention to Mystique's right teat, at the moment. She discovered the perfect amount of pressure to hold Mystique's nipple, hard enough the mare couldn't easily pull away, yet not painful. And the things she was doing with her tongue. Flicking her nipple left to right, up and down, rolling in circles. Mystique was in heaven, and she didn't want it to stop.

Her lover pulled her nipple gently, before letting it slip from her mouth. Mystique gasped, then moaned sadly as the cool air brushed over her. Just as a whimper started her left nipple was quickly pulled into the other mare’s mouth. Mystique’s whimper turned into a gasp of delight. “Ooooh, please don’t stop,” she sighed. Mystique felt the soft underside of the mare’s hoof caress her now neglected right teat. This was too good to be true. Mystique was playing out one of her fantasies. Her lover taking her right on the counter that she served customers. It made her feel so daring, and naughty.

*Please tell me I’m not dreaming,* she thought to herself. She cracked an eye open to check the front door. She could see it was still locked. The curtains over the window were shear enough that if somepony were to look closely they would be able to see her. She grinned at that thought. Her marehood twitched then, allowing a dribble of her arousal to slowly trickle down.

“I must be dreaming,” she moaned, “Honey, please stop teasing me!” she let out a huff in exasperation.

The other mare place a hoof on her flank. Tantalizingly close, yet still no where near where Mystique wanted her to focus. With a groan that was a mixture of arousal and frustration she started to sit up.

“I wouldn’t do that, yet, Mystique,” another mare whispered in her ear. Her warm breathe tickling Mystique’s ear, causing her to flick it.

Mystique stopped, her eyes flying open. She looked around, wondering where the voice came from. There wasn’t anypony else there from her upside down view. Then she realized her lover had stopped. With a frown Mystique sat up. Her lover was gone. *What?* she thought. “Honey?” she called out. Climbing off the counter, she walked to the door separating the front and back. Pushing it open, she stuck her head in. “Sweetie, where did you go?” Mystique quietly whimpered.

She climbed the stairs to her home. She was starting to feel cold. All the wonderful warmth from early was bleeding away, leaving her cold inside. She reached the landing, looking down the hall way. To her left was her bedroom and bathroom. On her right was her combination living room and dining room, with the small kitchen just beyond that. The bedroom door was closed, so she didn’t think her lover was there. *Maybe she snuck up to the kitchen,* she thought.

She suddenly shivered, as if a cold wind blew over her. With a slight whine she made her way into the living room. There wasn’t anypony there, the couch empty, as well as the small table in front of the window that she would eat. Often alone. *Don’t think about that,* she thought to herself sternly. *She’s up here. She has to be!*

Mystique stuck her head in though the archway into the kitchen. Nothing. Completely empty. She choked for a moment, a single tear sliding down her cheek. She felt even colder inside. *Where was she!* she screamed internally. “It’s not fair!” Mystique said heatedly. Turning around, she stalked back to the hallway.

Staring at her closed bedroom door, her emotions a mixture of anger and despair. Her lover left her. She had to have snuck out. If she was in the bedroom the door would be cracked open. An invitation to come to bed and join her. *Unless she’s hiding in there as a surprise,* she thought. With a renewal of hope, she cautiously approached the door. Lighting her horn, she turned the doorknob. The door swung inwards with ease, revealing the well lit bedroom. Her empty bedroom. Nopony was there. She had no closets, just a dresser, bed, and two nightstands.

With a cry, Mystique fell to the floor. Her shoulders shaking as she sobbed into her hooves. *She left me! What did I do?* she asked herself. Her tears continued to run down her cheeks, soaking into her coat. The coldness she had felt earlier was now freezing in her core. Her heart felt like lead. She choked on the lump in her throat, raggedly drawing air into her lungs as she continued crying.

The cafe was still. The only sounds were Mystiques sobs. “I don’t want to live anymore,” she barely whispered. It sounded like a shout to her ears, echoing off the walls and back to her. She laid her ears back, squeezing her eyes shut. Her words felt like razor ice, slicing at her heart. Her body went limp, as she gave up and let heart wounds bleed. They always hurt. She was never good enough to stay with for long. They always left her, and it was always her fault. They never said it to her face, yet because they wouldn’t say why they were leaving was evidence enough for Mystique. It had to be her fault. It was something she did. She was too clingy, or always bothering them. Another slice to her heart. *Just give up, Mystique,* she thought, *Just give up, go to sleep and never wake again.*

Through the silence, broken only by her ragged breath, her tears now silent yet still streaming, came a distinct sound. The sound of fine china tapping into each other. Mystique ignored the first time.The second time her ears perked up, swiveling to the stair way. When no other sound came, she sighed. *Just my imagination.*

Distinctly a third time of the sound of a cup meeting saucer, between being placed on a table downstairs. With a frown Mystique shakily got up. She didn’t want to deal with any other ponies. She just wanted to go to sleep. Maybe she would be lucky and the heartache would be enough that she wouldn’t wake up. She’d never be a burden to anypony again.

She made her way downstair, plodding slowly. Why couldn’t they leave her alone. The shop was closed. There shouldn’t be anypony else there. It was just supposed to be her. Alone, like always. She felt so cold right now. She never noticed the light being swallowed behind her. She failed to see that she was in a small pool of light, much like a moon beam, as she stepped off the stairway.

Mystique turned to the dining room with a sigh. She really didn’t feel like dealing with this, or anything for that matter. As she looked up she noticed that all the tables were gone, save one. She dropped to her haunches. Sitting at that lone table, drinking a cup of tea, was none other than Princess Luna.

Luna set her cup down on the saucer, turning her gaze to Mystique. Her eyes were filled with compassion, and a hint of sadness. “Mystique, dear, we need to talk,” she said with a knowing, yet sad, smile.

Lucid Dreams

Mystique was taken aback. What was the princess doing here? She was closed for the night. Her lover snuck off, leaving her alone. Again. An icy pain stabbed her in the chest. She gasped, clutching her chest with her hooves.

Luna sighed. With a slight nod of her head she indicated the space across from her. Mystique slowly walked over, her head low. As she settled on the seat, she looked at the princess. “Dear Mystique, you need to stop blaming yourself,” Luna said.

Mystique looked at her, completely confused. “I’m sorry, your highness? I don’t know what you mean,” she shook her head slightly. “I’m not blaming myself for anything. Nothing is wrong, I mean. Everything is perfect.” Her voice rose as she spoke.

“Don’t be obtuse,” Luna deadpanned. “There is a coldness in thy heart, and if thou let it, it shall freeze thine heart. Thou shalt never know joy, nor happiness, and nay, not even sadness will be thy comfort!” Luna had taken on the Voice. Mystique cowered across from her, for as Luna’s Voice rose, so had she. Luna stood at her full height, fanning her wings out. Her mane and tail had taken on more life, filling out making her seem even larger. Looking down on the little unicorn, Luna sighed. Getting her mane and tail back under control, and folding her wings in, she sat down.

“Mystique, I am sorry,” Luna said, her voice back to a normal volume. “Please, I only wish to help you. Look at me, my little pony,” she said with as much love in her voice as Celestia would have.

Mystique cautiously raised her head, her eyes meeting the princess’. She took a deep breath, letting it out slowly. “I’m sorry, Princess,” she said quietly. She thought about what Luna had just said, her heart feeling even colder. The room felt cold as well. She could see her breath fog the air in front of her. *What?* she thought, puzzled. *The princess’ breath isn’t fogging. Why is mine? It’s spring, it’s not that cold. What’s going on?* She let out a whimper, not meaning to.

“Oh, little one, we must fix this. And soon. You’re feeling the cold that is in your heart,” Luna said quietly. “That is why your breath fogs the air, and mine does not. This is a manifestation of your emotions. You’re subconsciously invoking your feelings of despair. The coldness in your heart of always blaming yourself that your partners leave, when it is not your fault.”

“How?” Mystique said angrily. “How is it not my fault? They leave me! They never told me why! I could understand if it was a one night stand.” She shook her head. “But they came back! Am I that good at rutting mares to be used again and again! But, if i want to be on the receiving end, they’re too tired!” she shouted. She never noticed the hoar frost forming on the cushion. Yet, Luna did notice.

“Ah,” Luna spoke, “I see. Tis not the coldness of despair that plagues your heart. Tis anger. A cold anger. Perhaps the most dangerous anger.” Luna lifted her tea, taking a sip.

“Of course I’m angry.” Mystique said calmly. “You would be too, if ponies used you to get themselves off.” She cocked her head slightly, then snorted. “You wouldn’t know, would you? You’re the princess of the night. No pony would dare to refuse you.”

Luna laughed at that. “Oh, I’ve been used before, little one. She regretted it, after my sister intervened and showed me what was happening. So, please refrain from accusing me of not knowing.” Luna set her cup back down, staring down at Mystique. “So, these mares used you, and you believe it is your fault. Let us examine that, shall we.”

Mystique’s mouth hung open. “Wait, what? SHE? You’re into mares? No, you can’t be, we’ve only seen you around stallions. You’re lying to me!”

“Enough!” Luna slammed her hoof on the table, making Mystique jump. “Yes, I’ve slept with mares. And stallions. Sometimes both at once. Yet, that is not why I’m here in your dream turned nightmare. I am here to stop this cycle. You, Mystique, have an opportunity to finally be happy. Yet, only if you stop blaming yourself for that which is not your fault.” Luna pointed her hoof at Mystique, then settled back.

“Dream? Ha!” Mystique snorted. “Yeah, princess you had the second part right. Nightmare. My whole bucking life is a nightmare! I’m dumped by every mare I’ve been with. You say it’s not my fault. Well, who’s to blame? Them? I doubt it. I’m the one that keeps bucking up everything. We have a couple of dates, a few nights in bed. Then they leave. I’m good enough for a romp in the hay, yet not good enough for them to stick around and possibly make a life with.”

Luna locked her eyes with Mystique. “Continue.”

“I now I’m not that pretty. Nothing like you, or Celestia, or even…” Mystique paused. She knew the name she was going to say. She wanted to say it, yet even knowing this was a dreamscape, she couldn’t voice it.

“Oh?” Luna asked, raising a brow. “You don’t think yourself attractive?” A small smirk played on her lips. “What would you say if I told you that I considered you attractive? What would you do if I were to wake you up right now, so that I might share your bed?”

“Wha… Princess, there is no way you're serious!” Mystique huffed. She began to laugh. “Seriously, I’m not good enough for you. Not even a one night stand good enough.”

“Hmmm,” Luna murmured. “Oh, you’re right. You’re not good enough for a one night stand.” Mystique hung her head at that. Luna reached out, the table no longer between them it now an inconvenience for the princess, and gently raised Mystique head back up. “You’re far too good for one night. I would say many nights, and days, would be more appropriate to appreciate you. Yet, I am afraid I must pass on showing you how worthy you are. There is another mare who would dearly love to get to know you better.”

Mystique’s eye stung, as tears began to well up. She couldn’t believe what the princess just said. She could tell that the princess was being sincere. Yet, she still couldn’t believe it. She wasn’t worthy, she had been shown that by so many partners.

“Not worthy?” Luna asked. “Oh, dear little Mystique. You are far more worthy than you think. And all you really need to do is think back to all those partners you’ve had. Really look at them, not just the surface, but their hearts. You saw them. Look back.” Luna guided Mystique’s head to her right, facing the darkness beyond the pool of light they sat in.

As Mystique gazed into the void, she could see shapes begin to form. She began to realize these were memories, pulled forth by the princess of the night. She watched as a series of mares appeared and the backdrop of when she had met them. She began to see a similarity. Each mare that she met, every one of them, was all in similar places. Bars and night clubs. Every one of them. The mares she would approach were all doing the same thing she was. Looking for some fun, they were all looking at the single mares there as well. They’d stop looking when they noticed the petite white unicorn with a light blue mane approach. Every single mare would smile the same smile. A smile one would find when the hunter found their prey. That’s all she was to them. Prey, something to be conquered. Not a pony to get to know, but a plaything.

Mystique turned back to Luna, tears silently falling. The frost that had spread out from her cushion receded, Luna noted. “I was just a toy to them,” Mystique murmured. “They weren’t looking for love,” she sniffed. “They were just looking to get laid.” Mystique hung her head, her shoulders shaking with her silent sobs.

Luna nodded slightly, then slid her hoof from Mystique’s cheek to her shoulder. “Now then, shall we look at what you truly want?”

Mystique looked up to Luna, noticing that the princes was looking to her right. Mystique looked to left, wondering what she would see. To her embarrassment, she found herself looking at her fantasy from the outside. A hiccup giggle escaped from her as she noticed how silly she looked with her head hanging off the counter like that. She looked to where her dream lover was supposed to be. There was a pony shaped blur there. Mystique looked back to Luna, confusion plain on her face.

Luna chuckled. “My, my… You certainly look happy like that. Yet, I wonder,” she tapped her chin, “who is the lucky mare?” Looking down at Mystique she smiled. “Close your eyes, Mystique. Tell me, what does your dream lover look like? Whom do you see yourself with?”

Mystique took a deep breath before closing her eyes. Letting it out slowly she spoke, “She’s going to be kind. And she’ll laugh at my terrible jokes. She’d love me as much as I love her.” Opening her eyes she saw that the blur was more defined.

“Go on,” Luna gently urged.

“She would want to snuggle after we made love, or even if we didn’t. She’d look forward to spending time with me,” Mystique said. Watching the vision become even more refined, she noticed little details. Wings came into focus, the mare’s coat went from a gray color to cream, her mane was dark, too dark to really tell. Mystique could tell by her dream self’s rapid breathing that she was getting close to climaxing. She focused on the mare, more because she was embarrassed.

Luna chuckled softly, “My goodness. It seems your lover is really enjoying herself.”

“Princess!” Mystique gasped, glancing at Luna.

“Oh!” Luna gasped, “Here comes the best part! Now, don’t look away, Mystique.”

Mystique looked back. She still couldn’t tell who the mare was, her dark mane was covering her face where Mystique’s thigh wasn’t obscuring her. She cocked her head slightly, trying to get a better angle. Shifting to her left slightly, she gasped. Her perspective suddenly changed, as her hind legs stretched out, her belly tightening as a wave of pleasure started in her center and spread outwards. She could feel her vaginal ways clamp down on the mare’s tongue, as her juices sprayed from her. A sudden feeling of emptiness made her whimper, only to gasp again as her climax was drawn from her by the mare sucking at her opening. The mare continued until every drop of Mystique’s marecum was drawn from her. As Mystique felt the unknown mare pull away she sat up. She looked down at her, still unsure who it was, her mane was still covering her face. The mare slowly lifted her head up looking Mystique in the eyes, a small smile on her face as she swallowed everything Mystique had given her. She licked her lips before leaning forward. Mystique was lost in Summer’s green eyes, all she saw was love there. As Summer gently kissed her, Mystique closed her eyes. She felt Summer pull away a moment later, before Mystique could truly enjoy the kiss. She opened her eyes to see Summer start to fade away. When she completely disappeared, Mystique looked to Princess Luna.

“Yes, my dear, that is your dream,” Luna said quietly. “Tomorrow morning, she will be here, in your cafe. You will offer her a job here. Do not fret, she will accept. You will spend time working with her, you will get to know each other better. Yet, take care you remember that you are not to blame for the past. And maybe, for once, you should be hunter.”

“I’ll remember, Princess,” Mystique promised. She found herself sitting on the floor behind the counter, all traces of her fantasy gone.

Princess Luna nodded her head. “Good night, Mystique. You shall find your sleep undisturbed, and will have plenty of rest in the morning.” She stepped out the doorway, it closing behind her then fading away.

Me, Myself and I

Summer walked down the road away from the cafe. Her mind was running on fast. Part because of the delicious drink that Mystique had made, and part because of said mare. *Oh my gosh!* she thought. *She was so cute! And I think she was flirting with me. No, no, she couldn't have been. Maybe she was… Oh! I don’t know what to think!*

Was Mystique flirting, or was she just a really friendly pony. Summer couldn’t tell. She was beginning to be rather preoccupied, so much so that she didn’t realize that she was rapidly approaching another pony. This one being another white unicorn mare, her exquisite purple mane gently bouncing as she trotted along.

“Good afternoon,” the mare called out in a sophisticated accent, as she trotted closer.

“Oh, uhm… Good afternoon,” Summer replied. The mare nodded with a good natured smile, and a slight chuckle, as she continued on. Summer pondered at the chuckle. That is until she saw her reflection in a window. She was standing there, still holding the coffee in her fetlock, with the silliest grin on her face she had ever seen. She looked happy. *I haven't looked this happy in a long time,* she reflected. The little grin growing into a smile, *In fact I haven’t felt this happy in a long time.*

She looked around quickly, wondering if she missed her house. Glancing back at the mare, who was rather attractive, to check her flank out of a bad habit, she caught the same mare glancing back. The mare grinned and winked at her, causing Summer to blush. She’d been caught, but she didn't feel bad. After all she was getting checked out as well. With a giggle, Summer winked back and continued up the road a slight spring in her step.

After a couple of houses she noticed a grey mare sitting in front of one. The mare looked familiar, and as Summer got closer, the mare turned her head revealing her walleyed smiling face. Smiling back, Summer picked up to an awkward canter, still holding her coffee.

“Hi!” Derpy chirped, “Welcome home!” She looked down bashfully, drawing a little circle in the dirt of the road. “Funny thing happened. I forgot to give you the spare key, so I needed to wait for you. I’m really sorry about this. I forget so many things sometimes.” The last coming out rather sad.

“Oh, gosh!” Summer exclaimed. Here she was trotting around, trying to find her house, then getting side tracked, and this poor mare had been waiting for her. “I’m so sorry for making you wait.”

Derpy giggled, “That’s ok. Nothing to worry about. Dinky kept me company.” She turned her head to something beside her out of Summer’s sight. “Come out and say hello, sweetie.” A light purple unicorn filly shyly peeked around Derpy. When she saw Summer she smiled.

“Hi there,” Summer said, with the warmest smile she had. “Aren’t you the cutest little thing!”

Derpy smiled down at the filly. “She sure is. My sweet little bundle of happiness!” Dinky hugged Derpy’s foreleg, smiling brightly up at her. Derpy reached under her wing, pulling out a keyring with two keys on it, holding them out to Summer. “Here you go. Sorry about forgetting to give the spare to you. We unpacked the big stuff, but if it’s not where you wanted just give me a call. I’ll come over and give you a hoof moving it around. I’m sure I can get a stallion or two to help as well, if we need them.”

Summer reached out with her wing, taking the keys with her primaries. “Thank you. And, again, I’m so sorry for making you wait.”

“Think nothing of it,” Derpy said cheerfully. “Come on, Dinky, lets head home and let the nice mare go into her new home.”

“Okay, momma,” Dinky said shyly, as she let go of Derpy’s leg. She waved goodbye to Summer and started to trot off.

Derpy smiled, watching Dinky head to their home. “If you need anything, or if I forgot anything, be sure to call. Welcome to Ponyville!” she said as she got up and followed Dinky.

“I will,” Summer called after them, “And thank you!” She smiled as the two turned and waved. Waving back, Summer turned to her door, unlocking it and headed in to her new home. It was a typical two story pony house. The entrance led directly into the living room, just beyond it the kitchen and dining room. A small hallway led off the left side to a half bath set into the right hand wall, just behind the kitchen. Slightly further down was the back door. To her immediate right was the coat closet, just beyond it the stairway. Glancing around the living room quickly, couch against the stairway wall, coffee table set in front, facing the far wall with a large window. To her surprise, the window looked right at the crystal castle. It really was a nice view, she just hoped she wouldn't get bored. She didn't own one of those new televisions, preferring the theater to sitting at home alone. At least there she'd be around other ponies. Yet, she did have a radio and record player, with decent speakers. Well if she was honest, fairly decent, she wouldn't brag about them, but they would produce some decent sound, especially in the bass range.

*Looks good downstairs. I'll worry about the kitchen later,* she thought. Turning to the stairway, she quickly trotted upwards. Reaching the modest landing at the top she saw that the full bath was directly in front. *Huh, kinda odd,* she mused. Turning to her left, three doors greeted her. The first on the right, just after the bathroom, was the linen closet, empty, but clean. Nodding, she moved to the next door, roughly in the middle of the hall, still to her right. This proved to be the smaller of the two bedrooms. Barren, she had not had a two bedroom in her old village, so there was nothing to put there. Closing the door she moved to the last door, set in corner of the outer wall and master bedroom. A small window was also set there, giving her another view of the castle.

Opening the door Summer looked in. Her bed and nightstand were set in place, and surprisingly the bed was already made. *Derpy must have made it for me. That was sweet of her,* she grinned at the thought. Glancing out the bedroom window, which offered a nice view of the castle as well, she figured she could unpack. *Plenty of time to get everything sorted and still go out for dinner,* she mused. With that she got down to unpacking her boxes.

A few hours later, Summer made her way downstairs. Her bedroom was done, as well as her toiletries in the bathroom. Which was a rather nice surprise. The bath had a tub that was just big enough for two, if they didn’t mind getting cozy, and had a rather nice rain effect shower head. The wall opposite the tub sported a full width mirror, to accommodate the double sink. The toilet itself was sitting between the sinks and tub, but was set so that it was completely out of the way, no awkward trying to stand around it while using the righthoof sink.

Summer sighed when she got downstairs. It had been a long day, she was hungry, and looking forward to getting to bed. Especially if she wanted to get up early enough to be an early customer of Mystique’s. She still wasn’t too sure about how she felt about the pearly white unicorn. Trotting into the kitchen, without thinking, she opened the refrigerator. Her mouth formed a small O in wonder. Inside was a medium sized covered dish, half an apple pie that looked like it may have been home baked, and two bottles of cider. On top of the covered dish was a note, which she promptly opened.

“Welcome to Ponyville!” it said, “Sorry about forgetting to give you the keys, I hope this will make up for it. Don’t worry about returning the dishes right away, and I left some soft cider. (Didn’t know if you drank hard cider and I didn’t want to offend you.) If you need anything you can find me at the post office, or I’m just down the road. I hope you enjoy living here!” It was signed by Derpy.

“Oh! That was so sweet of her!” Summer exclaimed out loud. Taking out the dish, she found was a lasagna with a white sauce, instead of the traditional red. Wasting no time, she set about reheating it up. Once done she sat down at the dining able and dug in. It was extremely good, she made a mental note to ask Derpy how she made it. The pie, also warmed up, was definitely home made, and was actually better than dinner had been. She giggled to herself, she could have easily made dinner out of the pie alone.

Quickly cleaning up her dishes, she trotted upstairs. Celestia had set the sun a few hours ago, and Luna’s moon was at the midpoint of rising. A good time for bed so that she’d get some rest and still be up early. She crawled into bed, snuggling into the covers. With a full belly, and warm heart from the kindness of Derpy, Summer drifted off to sleep quickly.

For what felt like hours later, Summer opened her eye slowly. Something woke her, and it wasn’t the alarm. Glancing out the window, she could make out that she had been asleep for at least two hours, the moon was just past the top of the window frame. She laid there quietly, beginning to ponder what woke her. Then she heard voices, sounding like from outside. Grumbling, she tried to go back to sleep. “Somepony just has to stop outside and talk,” she mumbled sarcastically.

After a while though, the voices didn’t move on. It sounded like a rather quiet argument was going on. Summer huffed, before crawling out of bed. She’d just have to go down and politely ask them to leave. Still mumbling under breath about ponies not being considerate of other who wanted to sleep, she made her way downstair.

What greeted her when she reached the first floor had her sitting on her flank suddenly. Standing in the middle of the living room was a mare, looking exactly like her only she had her mane swept to the side, falling down her neck and shoulder like a waterfall. Her tail was slightly flagged, still keeping her covered, yet was obviously arched enticingly. She looked over her shoulder with a sultry gaze from another mirror image of Summer sitting on the couch, this one’s mane done up in a bun and her tail braided, a pair of half moon glasses perched on her muzzle.

“Hey, sleeping beauty!” the first mare cooed.

Summer blinked. “Oh, buck me sideways!” she shouted. “One night! Couldn’t you two have given me one night, before showing up?”