Starlight Over the Forest

Chapters

2. Shadows of Friendship
3. A Mad Tea-Party
4. Starlight Fails to Relax
5. Tree Hugger Hugging Trees
6. Arts and Surprises
7. A Bite to Eat
8. Starlight Doesn't Panic
9. Starlight is Blunt
10. Perspective
11. To the Rescue!
12. The Agogo Migration
1. Starlight and the Stranger

2. Shadows of Friendship

Ponyville's streets were nearly empty by the time Starlight Glimmer returned to civilization. Were it not for the few friendly ponies headed home after a long day, Ponyville could have been mistaken for a ghost town. A light breeze whistled down main street, caressing the treetops as it passed.

Starlight shivered as she walked, grateful that she didn't have to endure the stares and whispers from earlier. She embraced the solitude she was feeling at that moment. It helped her retain the zen-like feeling from her meditation. She silently promised herself to try doing more tomorrow.

"Starlight?" A familiar voice asked, accompanied by the gentle sounds of hooves meeting earth. "Where have you been? It's been hours."

Starlight turned to face Princess Twilight. She took a deep breath, like a child being reprimanded for sneaking in past curfew.

"I was in the Everfee Forest." She replied, being cut off before explaining everything.

"Are you nuts!?" Twilight's expression was an intimidating blend of shock, worry, and disappointment. "You know how dangerous it is in there!"

"I know, Twilight. But I can handle myself. I'm older than you, remember?"

"I... I know." Twilight sighed. "Its just that you're my first pupil, and I worry about something bad happening." Twilight's ears flattened against her head as she pawed at the ground with a hoof. "I mean, you're perfectly capable, I've seen that first hand. But still, I've seen the pain in Celestia's eyes when she talks about students she's lost. I don't think I could handle going through that."

"It's fine. Really. I shouldn't have gone into the Everfree alone." Starlight frowned, somewhat annoyed that Twilight had managed to make a lecture about herself, even if she didn't mean to. The comforting words felt hollow, even to Starlight's ears.

"Let's just forget about it, okay?" Twilight tried smiling to deflect some of the tension building between the two mares. "Let's head back to the castle. Spike should have dinner ready soon."

Dinner was awkward, to say the least. Despite Twilight having said that Starlight disappearing into the Everfree Forest was forgotten about, it was clear she had some reserves about the whole situation. Spike sat between the two. Even at his young age he knew something was up, but he didn't know what to say.

The only sounds in the dining hall were the clatter of silverware against plate. Twilight kept glancing at Starlight, who avoided her gaze. Spike just kept looking back and forth between the two.

"I'm going to go read comics..." Spike said slowly, finally breaking the painful silence. Neither mare responded, so Spike slipped out of his chair and carried his plate into the kitchen as quickly as he could.

The two mares sat in silence for a moment longer before Twilight finally said something.

"So what were you doing in the Everfree Forest?" She asked, raising an eyebrow.

"I was... meditating." Starlight answered, realizing that it must seem a lame excuse.

"Meditating." Twilight stared flatly. "In a forest filled with dangerous creatures." She sighed. "Starlight, I get that you're going to want a measure of independence. And I get that you're going to do things you don't want to tell me about. But if you don't want to tell me something, you don't have to lie. I won't respect you any less for saying you don't want to tell me."

"But I really was meditating." Starlight facehoofed. "Look, Twilight. I get that you're new to the whole teacher thing. Really. But there's a difference between teaching and mothering. Did Celestia dote on you every second of the day to make sure you learned your lessons?"

"Well, no I-"

"Then please offer me that same chance." Starlight snapped. The unicorn mare stood and floated her dishes into the kitchen before retreating to the solitude of her room.

Twilight's ears flattened against her head as she sat in silence in the dining hall and thought about what Starlight had said.

Starlight simmered in her room. She was torn between going for a walk and throwing something. She paced her room in frustration, muttering to herself.

"Why did I act like that? I'm such an idiot!" Starlight cursed. "I bet she's going to open that door any moment now and ask me to leave. I'm such a terrible student."

Starlight glanced at the door in fear but it remained shut. Starlight huffed slightly and got into bed. Maybe this was all a bad dream? That's it. Any moment she'd wake up and Twilight wouldn't be mad at her. She wouldn't be getting kicked out of the castle. She wouldn't be upset. Dreams were just scary things sometimes.

But Starlight didn't wake up. She was already awake. And her irrational thinking was still eating at her.

She flung the covers across the room and cursed again. Starlight lay on her back and stared at the crystalline ceiling of her room.

"Why me?" She directed the question upwards, as if the ceiling could answer her. "I wonder if Twilight made a mistake." Starlight made no attempts to wipe away the tears that tickled at her face as they made their escape from the corners of the unicorn's eyes.

"No. That's just me being silly. Right?" Starlight rationalized. "Princesses don't make mistakes. Look at Princess Celestia."

She rolled over and sighed. The words sounded hollow to her ears. Without realizing it, Starlight had curled into a tight ball as she spiraled further into her personal darkness. Why can't I be like other ponies? Better ones who don't worry about stuff like this. Like Tree Hugger.

Tree Hugger. The name brought back the pleasant memories of this afternoon. That brief, glorious respite from the constant fear and discomfort that was Starlight Glimmer's life.

She sat up. Crossing her legs, Starlight brought her forehooves together and took a deep breath. She slowly let it out with a light Ohhm sound. Then she did it again. And again. Pretty soon the shadows that gnawed at the recesses of Starlight's mind receded. The tenseness in her muscles slowly unknotted.

Starlight fell into a relaxed state. Time slipped away, having lost all meaning. All there was now was this moment. The moment of utter relief as Starlight let go of everything that plagued her. The shadows would return. They always did. But right now, in this very instant, this fraction of time, Starlight was whole.

The illusion was shattered abruptly by a voice.

"You were really meditating?" Twilight asked, her voice barely a whisper. It was still enough for Starlight to come crashing back to reality. And the floor as she realized that she wasn't alone and flailed in shock.

"Are you all right?!" Twilight was at her side immediately.

"Yeah. I just didn't expect anypony to be in here. When did you come in?" Starlight twisted herself into a sitting position.

"I came to check on you." Twilight blushed lightly. "When nopony answered my knocking, I got worried."

"Oh. Sorry." Starlight looked away. "I um... guess I was really out of it."

"No, no. It's my fault. I shouldn't have barged in." Twilight took a step back, giving Starlight a bit more breathing room. Awkwardness settled over the two like a wet blanket. "So... Where did you learn meditation techniques?"

"I uh... Everfree Forest." Starlight replied.

"You visited Zecora? I didn't know you two knew each other already."

"Who?" Starlight stared in confusion.

"Zecora? Zebra living in the Everfree Forest?" Twilight sighed.

"Never heard of her. I was with Tree Hugger."

"Tree Hugger? Fluttershy's friend?" Twilight tilted her head in a mix of surprise and confusion. "Fluttershy said she'd visit soon, but why was she in the Everfree Forest?"

"I don't know actually. I went for a walk, and heard her meditating. There were all these little critters around, playing and the like. It all looked so peaceful that when Tree Hugger invited me to join her, I couldn't say no."

Twilight tapped her chin in thought but didn't reply.

"She invited me over to spend time with her and Fluttershy during her visit. I was thinking of asking Fluttershy if it was okay for me to join them for tea."

"That's a great idea! I'm surprised, Starlight. I mean, I was kind of worried that you were having trouble adjusting to being my pupil, but not only have you been adjusting better than i'd hoped, you're already seeking out your own lessons in friendship!" Twilight gushed. "Ooh this is so exciting! I'm going to write a letter to Princess Celestia telling her about the progress you've been making. She'll be so pleased! Oh! You'll have to tell me all about how things go tomorrow. I want to hear every last detail!"

Twilight trotted off giddily, oblivious to the look of concern on Starlight Glimmer's face.

Starlight held a hoof out, words of protest caught painfully in her throat. She'd just wanted to spend time with somepony. Now Twilight was turning it into a friendship lesson. The door closed behind Twilight.

The shadows crept back in slowly, summoned by the closing of the bedroom door.

3. A Mad Tea-Party

Starlight took a deep breath. Fluttershy had said it was okay to join her and Tree Hugger for tea, so long as she didn't mind the small chance that Discord may show up unannounced. Very small. Usually he was only there at the regular Tuesday tea time.

Which is precisely why Starlight was both surprised and not surprised to find a Spirit of Chaos at tea.

"Oh I do love dropping in on my best friend unannounced. It shows just how close we are." Discord hugged Fluttershy tightly.

"Discord, I love having you visit, but don't you think- oof. Don't you think this is a bit much?" Fluttershy squirmed from the Draconequus' grasp.

"Whatever do you mean, dear Fluttershy?"

"You're one of my best friends, but I don't want you getting jealous again. I still remember what happened at the Gala." Fluttershy pointed a hoof in Discord's direction.

"I promise to be on my best behavior. Scout's honor." Discord held up a salute with his talon, which immediately popped off from his wrist, sprouted wings, and flapped off to harass a parakeet.

"Okay then... But I'm warning you Discord. No funny business." Fluttershy shot one last look at Discord before settling back into her seat and pouring tea for the four of them. "It's so nice to see you again, Tree Hugger. How have you been?"

"Amazing. I've been travelling around a lot, you know? It's really helped me find my center." Tree Hugger responded. She had a look in her eyes that reflected a serenity that Starlight couldn't help but envy silently.

"So um, where have you travelled to?" Starlight asked, fidgeting her hooves under the table. "I'd love to hear about some of the places you've seen."

"Wherever the road takes me, you know? Like yesterday I was meditating in the forest nearby, and I met this pony with the most majestic aura." Tree Hugger smiled. "The animals were frolicking, and it was just this super relaxed vibe. You should have been there Fluttershy."

Starlight blinked, taken aback by Tree Hugger's description of yesterday's events. She did know that that was Starlight... Right?

"That sounds wonderful. Maybe I should join you some time. It get's awfully stressful taking care of the animals by myself. I could use a break." Fluttershy answered. A sparrow fluttered up and chirped excitedly at the mare. "Oh, no Sammy. I wouldn't trade taking care of all of you for anything." The sparrow seemed to accept this answer and flitted off into one of the many birdhouses hanging up in the room. "So who was this pony you met, Tree Hugger?"

"That... was me actually." Starlight answered. "I was going for a walk when I came across Tree Hugger."

"Oh goodness. You went for a walk in the Everfree?" Fluttershy's expression did little to hide the horror on her face. Starlight nodded in response and reached for her tea.

Starlight's tea, however, was currently walking away from her outstretched hooves on a new set of legs. As she stared in surprise, the teacup turned and blew a raspberry at the mare.

"I... Fluttershy? Why is my teacup making rude gestures at me?" Starlight stared as the teacup began dancing in place.

Fluttershy was giggling into her hooves uncontrollably.

"Discord, teehee. Let Starlight have her tea back." Tears had begun forming in her eyes as she held back her laughter.

"Oh, all right. But you're going to miss out on the show tunes." Discord snapped a talon and the teacup trotted back to it's saucer, where it's legs disappeared in a tiny puff of smoke. Starlight still eyed the teacup as if it would blow another raspberry.

"So, Tree Embrace," Discord started, getting another look of warning from Fluttershy in the process. "where were you before coming back to Ponyville?"

"I just came from the Hayseed Swamps. There's a three-horned snake that's been endangered for a while, and I had to help relocate them. Seeing their happy faces as they slithered into their new homes made me feel this divine peace. Like, that's what this is all about. Making animals happy, you know?" Tree Hugger seemed to wear serenity like a blanket, her expression one of nirvana.

"Oh yes, I understand completely." Discord grinned. "I heard that some animals even enjoy tea. Is that true?"

"Really? No way!" Tree Hugger asked in awe. "That's far out!"

"It's true! Angel Bunny can't get enough of the stuff. Look, he's at it again!" Discord pointed to Starlight's tea, where Angel Bunny's head had just popped out of the tea like a jack-in-the-box.

Angel Bunny was not amused. Somehow, he managed to hop completely out of the cup (which was much smaller than the bunny, so Starlight had no idea how he managed to fit in there) and proceeded to splash it's contents at Discord. The tea never made it to the spirit, as it decided to float around Discord and out an open window. It would then travel through the skies to Canterlot, where it would land in a lovely white porcelain teacup and be drank by a certain sun princess during her evening tea.

"Oh my!" Fluttershy exclaimed softly as she stifled yet another giggle. "Let me get you a new cup, Starlight." She picked up the teacup that had held Angel Bunny and trotted into the kitchen.

Starlight glared at Discord, certain that the draconequus had something to do with a rabbit hopping out of her tea. Discord had a halo floating over his head, and Starlight was pretty sure he didn't have such voluminous eyelashes a few seconds ago.

"So, Glim Glam, what do you do in Ponyville now that you live here?" Discord broke the awkward silence that threatened to settle over the room. He pinched the halo with two claws and tossed it out the open window as he spoke.

"It's Starlight, actually..." Starlight corrected. "And I'm Princess Twilight's pupil. I'm studying friendship under her?"

"How do you study friendship?" Discord scoffed. "Next you'll be telling me she sends you on friendship missions to make friends with lonely ponies."

Starlight didn't reply, instead choosing to stare sheepishly at her own hooves.

"Oh, that is too rich! And here I was thinking Twilight having a student would be an educational experience." Discord was clearly enjoying Starlight's discomfort.

"We're all students of something. It's like, part of the wheel that we call life. Learning is the spokes that hold it together." Tree Hugger interjected, much to Starlight's relief. Discord pantomimed gagging as Tree Hugger smiled at Starlight.

"But friendship isn't something you can just learn. There's a reason there's no books on friendship. Believe me, I've checked." Discord retorted.

"Actually, Twilight was telling me she's in the middle of writing one." Fluttershy said as she trotted back in with a new teacup. "She agreed with what you were saying, Discord. There aren't any good books on the subject."

"Ugh... Figures that she'd write a book on it." Discord rolled his eyes so hard they popped out of his head and rolled across the table, where they stared at Starlight.

Starlight Glimmer recoiled in disgust as she let out a cry.

"Discord, how many times have I told you not to leave your eyes lying around?" Fluttershy sighed. "I'm sorry Starlight. Discord's really very sweet when you get to know him. He just comes off as abrasive until you find his sweet side."

"I'm sure..." Starlight said flatly as Discord scooped his eyes up and put them back into his head with a wet plop.

"Would anypony like a crumpet?" Fluttershy interrupted, attempting to deflect the growing tension between Starlight Glimmer and Discord. "Rarity says they're absolutely scrumptious."

Fluttershy passed out a crumpet to everypony, shooting Starlight an apologetic look as she handed a crumpet to her. Silence took over as everypony took a moment to adorn their treats with honey, butter, jam, or whatever. Discord slathered on a helping of garlic-smelling chocolate and ate his in one bite, much to Starlight's disgust.

"Mmph, These are delicious, Fluttershy. Where did you get them?" Discord asked as he reached for another.

"Sugarcube Corner makes them on special request." Fluttershy answered. "Rarity says they're great for picnics, too."

Starlight, her momentary nausea passed, silently munched on her crumpet as the other three fell into pleasant conversation. It was nice to watch, but at the same time, she felt like an outsider. At least food was a good excuse to not speak often.

"-and the Cakes got the recipe after Rarity asked Princess Celestia for it. So technically, this is a royal recipe." Fluttershy finished her story on how the Cakes started making crumpets at their bakery (a hit in Ponyville, apparently). "Where are you going, Starlight?" Fluttershy asked.

"What?" Starlight looked around in shock. She'd been so intently listening to the story, she hadn't realized that she was walking away. No, that wasn't it; a group of woodland critters had started carrying Starlight's stool away from the table, with Starlight still on it. She let out a gasp of surprise.

"Discord." Fluttershy's voice carried a tone that threatened The Stare. "I told you not to mess with my animal friends. They're sensitive."

"Oh, all right." Discord clapped once and the poor critters scattered in fear, the spell upon them broken.

"Excuse me, everypony. I need to make sure that they're all okay." Fluttershy excused herself before tending to her animal friends. "Oh, you poor things..."

Once again, an awkward silence settled over everypony. Tree Hugger settled into a deep-breathing exercise, silently cleansing her chakras. Discord amused himself by juggling his legs and horns. Starlight stared suspiciously at Discord.

"I'm sorry, Discord. Have I... offended you somehow?" Starlight broke the silence, unable to work out the answer to her question on her own.

"No."

"It just feels like all of your pranks are directed at me." Starlight sighed.

"No." Discord replied again.

"Are you sure? Tree Hugger and Fluttershy haven't been on the receiving end of anything today." Starlight pointed out. "Not that I want them to be." She quickly added. "It's just... can you please let everypony enjoy our afternoon tea?"

"No."

"Why not?" Starlight was losing her patience, if the grinding of her teeth was any indication.

"Because, Glim Glam, there's fun to be had in letting loose. Sometimes you just need to liven things up once in a while. Cut lose, get wild, buy a motorcycle!" Discord produced a two-wheeled contraption that rolled itself out of the cottage and into Ponyville, where it would wreak havoc until Twilight Sparkle blew it up with a well-placed magical blast.

"But there's a difference between letting loose and having a good time at somepony else's expense!" Starlight slammed a hoof into the table in anger.

"Star..." Tree Hugger's soft voice brought Starlight crashing back down to earth. "You're harshing the vibe here." She placed a hoof on Starlight Glimmer's. "Can you lower your voice just a skosh?"

Starlight Glimmer pulled her hoof back gently, blushing furiously at her childish behavior.

"I've got to go. Sorry." Starlight's eyes never left the floor as she hurriedly excused herself, brushing past Fluttershy with a lame excuse before leaving.

"Is she all right?" Fluttershy asked of Discord and Tree Hugger.

Starlight was debating between another walk in the Everfree and just heading home. She was sitting on one of the bridges over the river staring into the water when a voice startled her.

"Starlight?"

She turned around to find herself staring at Fluttershy and Discord. Fluttershy had an angry look on her face, making Starlight's heart drop. She's mad at me. I ruined her tea party. Starlight's mind began to race as she thought about the many ways she screwed up this afternoon. Fluttershy huffed slightly.

"Discord has something he needs to say to you." Fluttershy stated like an angry mother.

Huh? Starlight had been so focused on Fluttershy's anger she hadn't bothered looking at Discord. Glancing at the draconequus, she now saw the reserved expression on his face.

"I'm sorry, okay?" Discord huffed poutily.

Fluttershy cleared her voice and shot Discord a look that was borderline Stare. He sighed.

"I'm sorry, Starlight. I was wrong to push your buttons so hard." Discord wrung his hands together. "I should have taken your feelings into account."

Starlight didn't know what to say. She stood slack-jawed as she stared at the two of them. Fluttershy snapped Starlight out of it by embracing Starlight Glimmer.

"Don't hesitate to join us for tea again. I promise Discord will be nicer next time." Fluttershy invited.

"I... Thank you, Fluttershy." Starlight pulled from the hug after reciprocating. "And Discord, for what it's worth, I'm sorry too. Fluttershy warned me that you could be... abrasive. I shouldn't have taken things so personally."

Discord scooped Starlight up in a tight hug.

"I guess we both still have things to learn about friendship, eh Glim Glam?" Discord whispered so that only she could hear.

Starlight Glimmer chuckled. "Yeah, I guess so. Maybe you should talk to Twilight about being her pupil too."

Discord shot Starlight a flat look before breaking into laughter. Soon Starlight and Fluttershy had joined in, enjoying the moment.

"You're all right, Glim Glam." Discord chuckled. "I think it would be nice if you joined us for tea again."

Starlight Glimmer smiled genuinely. "I'd like that."

4. Starlight Fails to Relax

"I have to say Starlight, I'm very impressed." Twilight began over dinner. "You handled yourself exceptionally well today."

"I got mad and yelled. I stormed out without any real explanation." Starlight pointed out as she pushed her food around her plate.

"Well, yes." Twilight conceded. "But you were dealing with Discord. The only pony that can really tolerate him for extended periods is Fluttershy. And maybe Princess Celestia, but I can't figure out why. The point is that you could have gone any number of ways with how you handled the situation. You chose an option that didn't escalate the conflict. That's something to be proud of."

"I guess you're right." Starlight Glimmer smiled lightly. "Thanks Twilight."

Starlight Glimmer felt rejuvenated. Last night's talk with Twilight had really helped clear her head of the worries that frequently piled up. She enjoyed the warm sunlight as she walked to Ponyville's market. Even the looks that she often perceived as staring seemed minor as she walked.

Starlight didn't plan on being out for long, though. She'd made an appointment at the spa with Rarity. She was just picking up a few things for dinner. Spike would have done it himself, but Twilight asked his help in reorganizing a section of her library. Spike was clearly less than enthusiastic, but had agreed to help anyway.

"Mornin' Miss Glimmer." A deep voice said nearby, pulling Starlight's head from the clouds.

"Oh, good morning. Doing well, Big McIntosh?" Starlight replied to the large stallion who'd trotted up next to her.

"Eeyup." Came Big Mac's reply.

"What are you doing in the market? Isn't that normally Applejack's side of things?"

"Eeyup. AJ's hurt her knee applebuckin'. Doc says she's gotta stay off her legs for a few days."

"Oh, I hope hope she's okay."

"She'll be right as rain soon enough." Big Mac reassured.

"Well that's good. Tell your sister hi for me, okay?"

"Eeyup." Big Mac smiled before tossing a bright red apple to Starlight. "Here. You look like you could use one o' these."

"Oh, thank you." Starlight said, bewildered. "How much do I owe you?"

"No charge. Just tryin' ta be nice today." Big Mac grinned warmly.

Starlight Glimmer was a bit spacey later that day. Even now at the spa, she found her mind drifting away as Rarity held a clearly one-sided conversation. Her mind kept wandering back to Big Macintosh and her exchange with him earlier that day.

"... and then she had the nerve to say that the colors I was using in my design were tacky. The nerve of Suri! She wouldn't know good fashion if it walked up behind her and bit her in the- Is everything all right, darling?" Rarity interrupted herself, giving Starlight a worried look. "You look as if something's bothering you."

Starlight blinked a few times before staring blankly at Rarity.

"I- huh?" Starlight eloquently replied.

"You look as if you've got something on your mind. Care to talk about it?" Rarity shifted slightly, careful not to interfere with Lotus' work on the hooficure Rarity was in the midst of receiving.

"Oh, no. It's nothing, really. I'm just not all there today." Starlight deflected.

"Does this have something to do with your spat with Discord yesterday? Fluttershy said you two were butting heads."

"You know about that?" Starlight winced slightly at the thought of everypony she knew knowing about her outburst.

"Oh, of course darling. There's no secrets between myself and Fluttershy." Rarity smiled. "Not to worry though. Anything you say to me will be held in the strictest confidentiality."

"I wan't thinking about that, actually." Starlight admitted. "I was thinking about... something else."

Rarity raised an eyebrow, a sudden intrigue creeping into her features.

"I know that look. I've had it on my face a few times in the past. Tell me, who is he?" Rarity rolled onto her side, giving a brief apology at Lotus' light 'tut' of disapproval in Rarity's sudden movement.

"Who is who?" Starlight asked back.

"The stallion on your mind, dear. I can see it plain as day that you're thinking of somepony. Is it that Doctor Whooves fellow? He seems right up your alley, if I do say so myself."

"Who? No. I was just thinking about a conversation I had with Big McIntosh earlier." Starlight replied.

"Applejack's brother?! Oh, you simply must tell me everything!" Rarity gushed. "How long have you been thinking about Big Mac like this? Does he feel the same way? Oooh, this is so exciting!"

"I- no. Rarity, it's nothing like that. I just kinda noticed that he seemed to be acting nicer than usual today. He even gave me a free apple. I was wondering, is he like that with other mares?" Starlight looked to her friend for answers.

"Well, not that I know of. I mean there were rumors he and Miss Cheerilee the school teacher were seeing each other for some time, but I don't know what ever became of that. As far as I know he doesn't seem to have his eye on anypony special if that's what you're asking."

"No. I don't have any feelings like that for Big McIntosh. I was worried he had them for me." Starlight furrowed her brow.

Aloe, the spa pony that was giving Starlight a hooficure, gasped lightly. She blushed furiously as Starlight Glimmer and Rarity both looked in her direction.

"What is it, Aloe?" Rarity asked. "Are you all right?"

"It is nothing," Aloe replied, her blush deepening enough to give her pink face a magenta hue. "I just nicked my hoof a little bit."

Rarity frowned lightly at Aloe, but decided to put that conversation on the back-burner for a bit.

"Would it be so bad if he did, darling? Even I must admit he is a handsome stallion." Rarity said coyly.

"I'm not arguing that," Starlight stated. "But I don't feel any sort of romantic feelings towards him just because he looks handsome."

"Then what ever is the problem?" Rarity asked, slightly insulted at Starlight's unintentional jab at Rarity's own tastes.

~~~

"I don't want to hurt his feelings." Starlight said in the mud baths after a prolonged period of silence. "Big McIntosh is a good stallion. Hard working, loyal, kind. He deserves a good mare who will treat him nicely. Even if I were interested in him, I wouldn't be that kind of mare. I worry that if he does have some sort of feelings for me then he shouldn't."

"Hmm..." Rarity rubbed her chin with her only clean hoof. "That is quite a predicament. Are we certain he has feelings for you though?"

"You said so yourself that you've never seen him act like that with any other mares." Starlight pointed out.

"That is true. Stallions can be quite simple like that when it comes to matters of the heart." Rarity conceded. "The real question is how to let him know that you don't view him in a romantic light without hurting his pride." Rarity pouted slightly. "Stallions take their pride too seriously, if you ask me though."

Starlight Glimmer groaned and rubbed her face, unintentionally coating it with mud in the process. Why did stallions have to be so complicated and simple at the same time?

"Why me?" Starlight said into her hooves.

"Why not you, dear?" Rarity retorted. "You're intelligent, pretty, you've proven you've got enough magical ability to fight Twilight Sparkle to a standstill. If anything it's a surprise you don't have more suitors." Was it just Starlight or was there the slightest hint of jealousy in Rarity's voice?

~~~

"That's just it, though." Starlight said, breaking the silence between herself and Rarity that had settled over them during the mud bath. "If Big McIntosh knows what I did, why would he have feelings for me?"

"What ever do you mean?" Rarity asked dreamily. The mare was currently being gently massaged into a near-comatose state by Lotus' masterful hooves. At this point, she was practically putty in the mare's hooves.

"I've done terrible things. Things that most ponies would condemn me for. So why would a stallion who might know about that stuff have any interest in me?" Starlight asked pointedly.

Aloe was having a decidedly more difficult time of getting Starlight Glimmer to a putty-state, which was made clear by the look of frustration etched into her normally peaceful face.

"You carry much stress in your back." Aloe grunted lightly. "Please try to relax."

"Sorry, Aloe." Starlight took a deep breath and exhaled. She didn't loosen up in the slightest. "What if he tells Applejack how he feels? What if Applejack supports it? What if he's looking for something serious?!" Starlight felt herself starting to slip into her familiar spiraling patterns. Even so, she felt like an outsider, watching her body slip away into a torrent of worry and doubt.

"Mmmm...." Rarity hummed with eyes shut. "Don't worry about it, darling. You'll just end up with wrinkles."

"Can I say something?" Another voice interjected nearby. Starlight Glimmer looked in the direction of the voice and was shocked to see Tree Hugger giving a massage to a startlingly muscular white pegasus stallion.

"Tree Hugger? What are you doing here?" Starlight asked in shock.

"I like to help other ponies reach nirvana wherever I can. Plus I need the bits for a train ticket when I leave in a few days." Tree Hugger answered before changing the subject back to the original topic. "If you don't have feelings for Big McIntosh, let him know. Sadness is part of the Great Wheel we call life. He'll feel bummed out for a bit, but that's not so bad. Life is so much better with sad moments to make the happy ones brighter, you know?"

"I never thought about it like that." Starlight admitted slowly.

"Like, we're all just going with the flow. Life's like a big river. Lots of time there's a calm current, but every river's got its own rapids." Tree Hugger breathed deeply. "Sometimes we just need to swim into them."

Starlight furrowed her brow, fairly certain she got the general idea of what Tree Hugger was saying. Maybe.

Starlight Glimmer caught up to Big Mac as he finished packing up his apple cart. Having dropped off and totally not ditched Rarity after their spa day, Starlight Glimmer decided that Tree Hugger's advice warranted an attempt. At the very least it would avoid any awkwardness later on between herself and Big McIntosh. She'd found Big Mac just as the sun had begun to set.

"Big McIntosh, do you have a moment to talk?" Starlight asked, steeling herself for the upcoming conversation.

"Eeyup."

"Listen, I..." Starlight hesitated to begin. She took a deep breath and exhaled before continuing. "I just wanted to clear things up between us. I don't think we'd be right for each other. You're a good stallion, and you deserve somepony better than me. I'm sorry, but I just can't return your feelings."

"Beg pardon?" Big Mac tilted his head in confusion.

"I just think you'd be better off with a mare who could be there for you. I don't think I'm that mare." Starlight flattened her ears, silently berating herself for breaking Big Mac's heart.

"Miss Glimmer, I don' know what you've been hearing, but ah think there's been some confusion." Big Mac said with a straight face. "I ain't been tryin' to court you at all."

"Huh?" Starlight's eyes widened in a mixture of shock and humiliation.

"Applejack's been talkin' about how you been kinda down since you moved to Ponyville. Ah thought that you could use another friend is all. AJ's been saying you could use a few more friends to make you feel welcome." Big McIntosh frowned slightly. "Ah didn't mean for you to get the wrong impression."

"Oh. I-I-I'm so sorry! It's just that you're the only stallion that has showed any interest in talking to me, and there's a bunch of mares who've been saying you're single, and now I'm just making it worse by saying all this." Starlight rambled.

Big McIntosh couldn't help but smile.

"Miss Glimmer, you don't got nothing to be embarrassed about." Big Mac reassured. "We all go makin' fools of ourselves once in a while. Ain't nothin' wrong with gettin' the wrong impression so long as nopony gets hurt." Big Mac nodded for emphasis. "I know I've made a plum fool of myself more 'n once."

"I- Thank you, Big Mac. I'm sorry for..." Starlight waved a hoof around, indicating the awkward moment occurring between them. "this."

"Nothin' to be sorry for." Big Mac emphasized. "Now, if you don't mind me askin'," Big Mac smiled slyly. "What mares have been talkin' about me?"

5. Tree Hugger Hugging Trees

The smell of fresh apples wafted through the air tantalizingly. A breeze tickled the treetops at Sweet Apple Acres. Overhead, the sun peeked through gaps in the clouds. In the shade of the orchards stood Starlight Glimmer and Applejack.

"Thanks again fer helpin' out, Starlight." Applejack smiled gratefully. "I'd hate ta think of what'd happen if Big Mac had ta buck all them trees and run the market stall alone."

"Of course! Big Mac told me what happened, and I figured you could use the help. Are you sure you should be putting weight on that knee though?" Starlight asked worriedly.

"Ain't no way I'm gonna stay in bed. I can still help with other chores, even if I can't do the apple buckin'." Applejack scoffed. She stamped a hoof for emphasis, only to wince in pain.

"Are you sure?" Starlight tilted her head quizzically. "There's nothing wrong with taking a day or two to rest up."

"I'll be fine." Applejack replied a bit too sharply. "I'll be right as rain in a jiffy. No need ta worry about me."

"Okay." Starlight said after a long pause. "So, um... What do you need me to do?"

"Simple, really. I just need this section of the orchard bucked today. I went an' marked the area off with some flags on the ground." Applejack gestured a good hoof at one of the nearest red flags so Starlight would know which ones she meant. "All you gotta do is get them apples off the tree and into them buckets here."

"Okay." Starlight answered cheerily. "I can do that."

"Great! And thanks again fer this, Starlight." Applejack tipped her stetson hat towards her friend. "I'll leave ya to it. If ya need any help, just holler, 'kay?"

Starlight nodded and Applejack trotted away with a noticeable limp.

A jaunty little tune, wordless but happy, filled the air as Starlight hummed brightly. She'd fallen into a comfortable routine in the hours that she'd been working. The sun was already high above her, warming the mare through her fur coat. A few beads of sweat could be spotted dampening the mare's brow, but she wiped these away.

Starlight had spent her time going tree to tree and gently plucking the apples from their branches en masse with her magic. These were then gently placed into buckets that were to be hauled back by Big Mac when he returned from the market stall later. It wasn't particularly stimulating work, mind. But it was satisfying. Starlight couldn't help but smile when she looked over her shoulder at the progress she'd made.

Starlight could see why Applejack loved her work. Being able to tend and care for all these trees was certainly hard, but there was a touch of pride in knowing that you harvested the delectable fruit that somepony would enjoy later.

'Maybe I should start my own garden. That sounds nice.' Starlight thought. 'I'll have to ask Applejack where to start with that.'

Starlight's ears perked up at the sound of a noise nearby. Gently placing the apples she held in her magic into another bucket before looking around for the source of the noise.

"Applejack? Is that you?" Starlight called. No answer came though. Starlight's brow furrowed as she concentrated on listening for the noise again. After a few seconds, she heard it again. She carefully trotted forward, pulled along by curiosity.

Every few feet, Starlight would stop and listen again, only to continue moving towards the sounds once she heard them again. As she drew closer, it became apparent that somepony was talking. While she couldn't make out the words, it sounded as though somepony was having a conversation, but there was only one voice.

Eventually Starlight stepped around a tree to find the source of the voice: Tree Hugger.

"You're absolutely beautiful." Tree Hugger said, her words drawing heat to Starlight's cheeks.

"T-Tree Hugger? What- um... what are you doing out here?" Starlight stammered, desperately trying to rationalize how she misinterpreted Tree Hugger's words.

"Oh, hey. What's up, Star?" Tree Hugger looked to the new arrival with that same serene smile she always seemed to wear.

"I, uh, heard some noise and was trying to find out what it was." Starlight finally started getting her words to a more controlled level.

"Righteous. I was just admiring the orchard here. There's some fantastic trees here." Tree Hugger placed a hoof on one of the apple trees to emphasize her statement.

"You were talking to trees?" Starlight's shock vanished instantly, replaced by confusion.

"Of course. Trees are living things too. Sometimes they just need to hear some encouragement, you know?"

"Uhhh..." Starlight was at a loss for words.

"I should head out. I'm going to an art class tomorrow." Finally, normal words for Starlight to respond to in a normal fashion.

"I didn't know you liked art."

"Oh, yeah. Its, like, a great way of expressing emotions that you can't put into words." Tree Hugger closed her eyes and took a deep breath. "You should totally join me."

"Oh, I don't know. I'm not really artistic."

"It'll be fun. Its a super relaxed class. Nopony will judge you."

"Well..." Starlight said slowly. Technically speaking this would probably advance her friendship studies. And Tree Hugger did seem to want Starlight to go. "Okay. I guess I can give it a shot."

"Far out. Meet me at Easel's Art Studio tomorrow morning."

Starlight agreed, and after a quick hug Tree Hugger left Sweet Apple Acres. Starlight decided that break time was over and got back to harvesting.

The sun hung low in the sky as Starlight finished harvesting the last tree. Big Mac had gotten back a short time ago and, after a short chat, began hauling apples into the barn. Applejack trotted out to check on Starlight, still limping.

"Howdy, Starlight. Mighty fine work you done here. I don't know how I'm gonna repay you."

"It was nothing. I had fun." Starlight gave Applejack a genuine smile. " Although I wouldn't mind learning how to start my own garden if you wouldn't mind helping me."

"Shoot, that's the least I could do. You really saved my hide today. I'm sure Big Mac's plum tickled that he don't have to do no applebuckin' tonight." Applejack grinned. "You didn't have no trouble, did you?"

"Not at all. Although I did run into somepony in the orchard, come to think of it."

"Somepony was in the orchard? Why didn't you tell me sooner?" Applejack sounded mildly alarmed.

"I didn't think it was a problem. She was talking to the trees."

"Oh, Tree Hugger stopped by, huh?" Applejack breathed a sigh of relief.

"How'd you know it was Tree Hugger?" Starlight asked, certain she hadn't said a name.

"She comes by every time she visits Fluttershy and 'encourages' the trees. She says it helps the apples grow bigger." Applejack let out a chuckle. "I don't have the heart ta tell her I do that already."

"Really?" Starlight shot a flat expression at her friend.

"Eeyup. Does plants a lotta good to hear somepony talkin' to them. You should try it when you start that garden o' yours." Applejack smirked, not missing the disbelief in Starlight's voice or the expression on her face. "Now come on inside. Granny Smith's almost done makin' supper, and I already set a place for ya."

Starlight smiled and wordlessly followed Applejack back to the house.

6. Arts and Surprises

"So you're going to go paint?" Twilight asked, as if it were a difficult concept to grasp.

"Well, that is what you do when you go to an art studio. I think." Starlight answered with more than a little sarcasm.

"But you're going with a friend?"

Hoof met forehead as Twilight straddled the line between mentor and doting mother.

"Yes, Twilight. I'm going with a friend. Just don't-"

"This will be a great chance for you to advance your friendship studies!" Twilight finally chose which side of the line to stand on as she emphatically clapped her hooves, wearing an enormous grin.

"Yeah," Starlight grimaced, though if Twilight saw she made no indication. "great..."

It was cloudy when Starlight made her way to Easel's Art Studio the following morning. The dull gray of the skies seemed to mirror the gloom that threatened to settle on the mare as she trotted down the street. A quiet had settled over Ponyville. Starlight assumed that residents were just avoiding the drab weather.

Starlight's mood brightened a bit as she approached the studio. Tree Hugger stood in front of the building, staring upwards at a tree as a breeze shook a few leaves free of the branches. Tree Hugger wore an expression of wonder. If she hadn't met her in a forest, Starlight would have ventured a guess that Tree Hugger had never seen a tree before. Which would have been an incredibly strange thing when she considered Tree Hugger's name.

"Tree Hugger? Are you okay?" Starlight asked as she approached. Tree Hugger shook herself free of her reverie with a smile.

"I'm wonderful, thank you. I was just admiring the cycle of nature." Tree Hugger looked to Starlight, gently smiling.

"They're just leaves falling off the tree." Starlight tilted her head quizzically.

"Even simple things can show you beauty in nature. Like when the leaves start to fall from trees, seeds fall too. And those seeds will grow into a majestic tree someday." Starlight mulled this over for a moment, unable to disagree with the explanation. Before she could respond though, Tree Hugger continued. "We should go inside. I think the class is going to start soon."

"Okay. I didn't bring any art supplies though. Is that okay?"

Tree Hugger nodded as she held the door for Starlight. Her eyes followed one last leaf before she stepped inside.

Starlight was greeted with the smell of drying paint as Tree Hugger led her towards a classroom. The walls were decorated with a plethora of artworks from various artists. A zebra mask. A painting of a church with a swirly-starry sky in the background. A can of tomato soup. Starlight inspected each of these as she passed by, wishing she could say something artistic.

"I like the... colors." Starlight mentally facehoofed. 'I would have been better off saying "I like art." She must think I'm an idiot.'

"Right on. Color is such a great way to express what you're feeling. Its a bummer I can't paint what I feel better. I feel like it loses meaning somehow.." Tree Hugger lamented.

"Oh. I'm... sure you're a great painter." Starlight awkwardly attempted to comfort her friend. 'I'm doing terribly! Why did Twilight have to go and call it a friendship lesson?!' Starlight screamed internally.

Thankfully, Starlight's attention was pulled from her hidden meltdown by her arrival at the studio's classroom. Other ponies had already arrived, and were standing in front of blank canvasses set up in a circle. All eyes were on Tree Hugger and Starlight as they trotted inside.

Scanning the room, Starlight was struck by how varied the students were. Ages ranged from fillies around Applejack's sister's age to a few decades older than Starlight. Roughly a dozen students watched the pair. And then it dawned on Starlight: there were no empty easels.

"Tree Hugger? Are you sure we're in the right class?" Starlight whispered nervously. Before Tree Hugger responded, an older stallion stepped forward.

"Tree Hugger! It is good to see you. How have you been?" The stallion's words were laced with a thick Stalliongrad accent as he greeted Tree Hugger with a wide grin and a hug.

The stallion in question wore a paint-spattered artist's smock. His white mane was tied back into a topknot, presumably to keep paint out of it. This had clearly not been successful as the stallion had splotches of orange and green in his mane and tail.

"It's been pretty radical. Its good to see you again, Easel." Tree Hugger returned the hug happily. "I hope its cool, but I, like, brought a friend today."

"Wonderful! Hello!" Easel greeted Starlight with a hug tight enough to force the air from her lungs. "Welcome to my studio. Any friend of Tree Hugger is a friend of mine! I am Easel!" He released Starlight at long last.

"Starlight. Glimmer." The mare gasped for air, grateful for oxygen. "Its good to meet you, too."

"Please, get comfortable. We have a long class ahead of us. If you are in need of refreshments, please do not hesitate to ask." Easel offered, waving a hoof to a large circular platform in the middle of the easels. With that, he stepped away from Starlight and Tree Hugger, checking on the students.

"Tree Hugger? What did he mean?" Starlight worriedly asked in hushed tones.

"Hmm? Oh, I do modeling for Easel's class when I visit. Its totally liberating to just open yourself up, you know?"

"No, I don't know. I've never done something like this. I thought we were going to paint! I didn't know I was going to... expose myself in front of strangers!" Starlight harshly whispered, panic creeping into her voice.

"Starlight, your energy is all out of whack. Are you all right?" Tree Hugger shot Starlight a worried look. "Just take a moment and take a deep breath."

"I-I can't do it. I thought we were going to paint and have a nice relaxingtimeandnowIcan't-" Starlight took a deep breath before exhaling slowly.

Tree Hugger wordlessly placed a comforting hoof on Starlight's shoulder. Starlight had no idea how Tree Hugger did it, but somehow the stress building up seemed to just disappear.

"I'm sorry." Starlight apologized. "I-I'm just not comfortable with being in the limelight."

"Its cool. I don't want to make you do anything that would harsh your flow." Tree Hugger smiled gently. "If you're not comfortable you can totally just watch, or maybe Easel would let you paint."

Starlight hesitated for a moment. On one hoof, posing for a group of strangers was an absolutely terrifying idea. On the other hoof, Starlight really didn't want to have to explain to Twilight that she had been utterly terrified of posing for an art class and that's why she bailed on a potential friendship lesson.

"No, I'll- I'll stay." Starlight decided with a resolute nod. Putting up with a friendship lecture was scarier than this.

"Righteous. But if it starts to get to you, you should let me know. I know some wonderful auditory therapy techniques."

Starlight and Tree Hugger approached the round platform and climbed atop it. The blue velvet cover on it felt rather pleasant under Starlight's hooves. If only it were enough to quell the butterflies in her stomach.

'No. You can do this, Starlight Glimmer. You just need to not focus on the ponies that will be staring at you. Focus on... other stuff! Like... stuff. Shoot.'

"Tree Hugger? What do I do?"

"Just do whatever comes naturally. Let go."

"Okay..." Starlight was hesitant, but she struck a pose, holding an outstretched hoof. Tree Hugger, on the other hoof, stood on one hind leg, and stretched herself out horizontally, balancing perfectly.

The students got to their work, glancing from easel to models often. Most of them seemed to wear expressions of focus. Some furrowed their brows in frustration. This went on for a few minutes, until Tree Hugger changed her position. She stood tall, stretching her forelegs to the sky while folding the leg that wasn't supporting her upwards, bringing her hoof to her inner thigh. Starlight followed her example and bent her outstretched leg, holding herself in a rigid, and hopefully proud, pose.

This brought more frowns from the students. A bead of sweat started to trickle down Starlight's forehead.

'They don't like what I'm doing. What do I do? What do I do!?'

"Star?" Tree Hugger whispered. "Your aura's out of whack. Are you all right?" Tree Hugger's usual smile was replaced by a look of concern.

"I'm okay." Starlight forced a smile.

"Do you need help?"

Starlight hesitated for a moment.

"Maybe..." Starlight felt heat rising into her cheeks.

Tree Hugger wordlessly shifted her stance, coming back down to all fours and taking Starlight's upheld hoof in her own.

Starlight blinked in surprise. She hadn't known what to expect, but this hadn't been what she'd have guessed. Tree Hugger hadn't said a word, just made a simple gesture. Starlight felt her body relax slightly.

"Thank you." She mouthed silently. Tree Hugger merely smiled. They held this pose for some time, unmoving but comfortable. After a while they wordlessly changed poses.

Tree Hugger took charge, standing on her hind legs and bowing slightly. With gentle twitches of her hooves, she guided Starlight onto her own hind legs. Taking a cue from Tree Hugger's stance, Starlight curtsied.

The painters encircling them seemed to fade away from Starlight's view. She was vaguely aware of their movements as they furiously went about their work, seized by whatever moods compelled them to create their artwork. This didn't matter to Starlight, however. At some point she'd lost sight of the apprehension that had previously smothered her.

Another change in pose. Tree Hugger's hoof slipped around Starlight to the small of her back and pulled her closer. At the same time she took Starlight's hoof in her free one.

Starlight's breathing stopped for a fraction of a second. She wasn't used to being this close to somepony. She could feel Tree Hugger's fur tickling her skin. Tree Hugger's warm breath teased her fur. The scent of juniper berries danced about the two. Starlight made a mental note to ask what Tree Hugger used to wash her fur later.

Time passed all too quickly after that. The changes in poses became more and more infrequent as the class went on. Tree Hugger and Starlight's dance stretched on, graceful and delicate. Tree Hugger seemed to know exactly what subtle cues to give Starlight to wordlessly guide her through the process. All too soon, though, the class was over.

"Brushes down, everypony. Magnificent work! And please, a warm 'thank you' to our beautiful models!" Easel announced the end of the class. The students clapped their hooves, grinning widely. Starlight beamed, having long forgotten about the gaze of these ponies. Heat rose into her cheeks as a blush burned her face.

Easel approached and hugged Starlight and Tree Hugger both as they stepped off the platform, crushing them in the vice grip of an embrace.

"Magnificent work, girls! I have never seen students so inspired! You must do this again sometime!" Easel laughed heartily.

Tree Hugger said nothing as she glanced to Starlight. Starlight met her gaze for a fraction of a second before looking to Easel again.

"That sounds nice, actually." Starlight couldn't help but smile.

The three of them engaged in small talk as the students packed their supplies and left. A dozen paintings sat alone as they were left overnight to dry. Starlight gazed at the back of the easels, curiosity nagging at her like a spoiled filly.

"Easel? Would it be all right if I took a look at the paintings?"

"Of course!" Easel guffawed. "It is some lovely work. I am sure the artists would be insulted if you didn't look at them!"

Starlight moved slowly, circling the paintings and inspecting them one by one. Each one captured a different moment on the pedestal, from Starlight's awkward posing to Tree Hugger's fluid grace. Some captured different parts of the stretched out dance, carefully recreating them in each artist's own style.

Starlight stopped at one of the last paintings, her breath stolen by it. Upon the canvas was the embrace, where Starlight and Tree Hugger had first stepped close. The artist had captured everything. Their fur had been lovingly created with rich detail, each individual strand noticeable in the lighting the artist had recreated. Shadows danced along their frames, accenting each curve of the models. Starlight could now see how Tree Hugger had held her, firmly but somehow with a gentle touch. Starlight couldn't help but marvel at the expressions upon her and Tree Hugger's faces.

Tree Hugger's smile, delicate and genuine, lit up her face as she looked Starlight in the eyes. Starlight, on the other hoof, looked back with what could only be described as a mixture of awe and relief.

Starlight felt heat rising into her face yet again as she confronted the intimate moments she'd shared on the stage. The emotion that accompanied it was not embarrassment or terror at what she had done. In fact, Starlight would have never guessed she'd feel the way she did about posing for strangers.

She was proud of herself.

7. A Bite to Eat

"You wanna grab a bite to eat? I'm starved." Tree Hugger asked as she and Starlight left Easel's studio.

Starlight's stomach answered for her with an irritated grumble.

"I'm pretty hungry, too, I guess." Starlight gave a sheepish grin.

"Far out. I know a really rad cafe nearby if you wanna get something together."

"That sounds nice, actually."

Tree Hugger lead Starlight through a few of Ponyville's side streets until they found themselves in front of a small hole-in-the-wall cafe. Starlight could here soft jazz playing through the open door. A large window revealed a few ponies inside, chatting pleasantly with those they were with or sitting quietly alone and enjoying the atmosphere.

"Vanilla Bean's Cafe. I've never heard of this place."

"I heard about it from Fluttershy. It's got a nice vibe to it."

Upon entering, Starlight was greeted with a scent that could only be described as inviting. She couldn't put her hoof on what the smell was, but it was a strange sort of almost familiar. Like visiting an old friend's home. Tree Hugger and Starlight took a table by the window.

"This place seems nice." Starlight commented as she looked about. "Do you have any recommendations?"

"Vanilla has this far out daffodil salad," Tree Hugger answered. "And the latte's are pretty good, too."

"That does sound good." Starlight admitted.

"Awesome. I'll go order." Tree Hugger stepped away from the table, approaching the counter to order.

Starlight surveyed the room, taking in as much detail as possible. Whoever had decorated the cafe had exquisite taste. Red satin curtains bordered the window she sat next to. Carefully selected paintings adorned the walls. Starlight wondered if any had come from Easel's studio. It was definitely on par with some of the other works she'd seen there. The pristine hardwood floor had been polished to a shine so bright that Starlight could see her reflection when she looked down. If Starlight were honest, this place could have passed for a Canterlot restaurant just as easily as a cafe.

The patrons seemed to just fit the decor of the cafe, in Starlight's opinion. Like she could take a photo of any of the patrons here and hang it on the wall without the photograph seeming out of place. Octavia and DJ Pon-3, two of Ponyville's most prominent musicians, sat at a table chatting pleasantly, smiles and giggles abound. At another table, Mr. and Mrs. Cake were sharing a slice of cake, enjoying a bit of time without the children.

'Wow. This looks like a popular spot for couples.' Starlight thought idly. 'Come to think of it, I think the only ponies with someone that aren't on a date are me and Tree... Hugger.' Idle thought had thrown itself out the window after finding itself replaced with blind panic. 'No, that's just ridiculous! Tree Hugger didn't say it was a date. But what if she thinks it is? What if it is!? Wait, shouldn't I know if it's a date or not?'

"Star?" Tree Hugger's voice, full of concern, pulled Starlight from her thoughts. "Are you all right? Your face is really red."

"I'm fine!" Starlight answered, a little louder than she'd intended. "Er, sorry. I'm fine. I'm just... warm. It is warm in here, right?"

Tree Hugger didn't answer immediately, carefully looking back at Starlight. Starlight didn't enjoy the attention. It felt like Tree Hugger was looking through her, not just at her. After a moment, Tree Hugger smiled.

"If you say you're okay." Tree Hugger said.

"Mhmm! Fine! Eheheh..." Starlight laughed nervously, her mind racing to change subjects. "So, what do you do when you're not in Ponyville?" Tree Hugger's eyes lit up as Starlight deflected the topic of conversation.

"I'm a member of the Equestrian Society for the Preservation of Rare Creatures." Tree Hugger explained. "I travel around and study rare animals and make sure they're kept safe. It's like, really fulfilling work to know I can make a difference for some poor animal out in the world, you know?"

"That sounds incredible, actually. Is that how you met Fluttershy?"

"Mhmm. We met at a a protest to stop a land development in Froggy Bottom Bog. We totally clicked on a metaphysical level and we've been friends ever since."

"Huh. Fluttershy never struck me as the protester type. I guess you learn something new every day."

"Okay, you two. Drinks and two daffodil salads." The owner of the cafe, Vanilla Bean, brought Tree Hugger's order to the table, placing the food and tea in front of the mares. "New friend, Tree Hugger?" Vanilla raised an eyebrow and smirked.

"Yeah, this is Starlight Glimmer. Star, this is Vanilla Bean, the owner." Tree Hugger indicated with a hoof.

"Good to meet you, Vanilla Bean."

"Oh, please. Pleasure's all mine, sweetheart." Vanilla chuckled. "You two have fun, now." The stallion trotted away with a coy smile.

"He seems... nice." Starlight said hesitantly.

"Vanilla's great. I set him up with another friend of mine, Timber Spruce." Tree Hugger snickered lightly. "He keeps trying to introduce me to friends of his to balance things out."

"Oh," Starlight's heart skipped a beat, though she couldn't explain what caused it. "So you have a buckfriend?"

Tree Hugger shook her head.

"I've never met anypony that harmonized with me, you know?"

"Uhh, sure." Starlight said awkwardly.

"So what do you, like, do."

"I'm Princess Twilight's pupil. I study magic and friendship under her."

"Far out."

The two fell into pleasant conversation after that, enjoying the admittedly delicious daffodil salads. Starlight reminded herself to go here again sometime. All too soon, though, the two finished their meals.

"That was really good. Thanks for suggesting this place. I never knew it existed."

"Right on. I'm glad you liked it." Tree Hugger flashed that serene smile of hers, and Starlight could have melted. For the umpteenth time that day she felt her heart skip a beat. "We should hang out again before I leave."

"I-I-I'd like that." Starlight didn't stumble over her words so much as faceplant after trying to find them blindfolded.

"Righteous. Actually, the reason I'm in Ponyville is because there's an Agogo migration the day after tomorrow. It'd be pretty cool if you came to watch with me." Tree Hugger offered.

"What's an Agogo?" Starlight tilted her head in confusion. Tree Hugger tapped a hoof against her chin as she thought for a moment.

"They're kind of like fireflies. But not fireflies. They're actually cloud sprites, but during migration season they glow different colors. It's a totally amazing experience to watch." She explained.

"That sounds like a lot of fun." Starlight said, genuinely interested.

"Far out. I'll meet you at Sugarcube Corner that night."

Starlight smiled brightly.

"I can't wait."

Starlight found herself grinning as she trotted up to the castle. Had anypony asked her what she was smiling about, Starlight didn't think she could properly explain it. Heck, she wasn't sure if she understood herself. But for some reason, she just couldn't suppress the smile she wore.

She magicked open the door to the castle only to be greeted by Twilight, who wore a grin just as wide as Starlight's. Starlight felt her stomach tighten for a moment before Twilight spoke.

"Oh this is so exciting!" Twilight exclaimed, dancing in place. "Starlight, you'll never guess what just happened?"

"Um... The map is sending you on a friendship mission?" Starlight raised an eyebrow questioningly.

"Even better! I just got a letter from Cadence! She and Flurry Heart are coming for a visit!" Twilight levitated a piece of parchment to Starlight, who took it into her own magic and began reading the letter. "Cadence was on her way to visit Canterlot to meet with a Yakyakistan dignitary to discuss trade negotiations, but the dignitary was delayed and she just found out when she was halfway to Canterlot! So she decided to stop by and visit for a few days until the dignitary can get to Canterlot." Twilight grinned widely as Starlight read the letter that confirmed her words. "I can't wait to see my niece and sister-in-law! They should be here in a few hours!"

"That's great! It'll be nice to see them again." Starlight agreed with a smile.

"And while they're here you can tell both of us all about how things went with Tree Hugger during your friendship lesson today!" Twilight added.

Starlight smiled in an attempt to hide the sudden terror welling up in her.

"I," Starlight paused as she figured out exactly how to word her sentence. "can't wait."

8. Starlight Doesn't Panic

"Sunshine, sunshine. Ladybugs awake! Clap your hooves and do a little shake!"

Starlight entered the entry hall of the castle to the sounds of giggling, having just missed Twilight and Cadence's greeting ritual.

"Cadence! It's good to see you." Starlight smiled widely. "And look at Flurry, she's getting so big!"

Flurry Heart had decided to entertain herself by flying just above her mother, cooing at anything that caught her attention. This of course being pretty much anything that moved, resulting in the foal looking about the room in constant wonder.

"It's good to see you too, Starlight." Cadence hugged Starlight tightly with her greeting, who returned the hug with equal measure. "It's been too long. I haven't seen either of you since Flurry's Crystalling. How have you been?" For a fraction of a second, Starlight thought she caught an expression of curiosity upon the princess' face. It was gone in the blink of an eye, however, if it had been there at all.

"Great!" Twilight chimed in. "Come in, make yourself comfortable. Ooh, I'm so happy you're here!" Twilight lead everypony further into the castle, wearing an excited grin.

Starlight sat quietly as she listened to Twilight and Cadence catching up. They'd spent the last hour or so catching up, trading stories about Ponyville and the Crystal Empire and the goings-on of the two. She spent her time keeping Flurry Heart busy, entertaining the foal with a raggedy stuffed doll.

"-so then Shining flings the door open to the barracks, wearing a towel like it's some sort of new armor, and yells 'That's no changeling, that's a kitten!'" Cadence finished her story, causing Twilight to burst into laughter. Starlight hadn't realized it, but at some point she'd tuned out the story. She forced a weak chuckle to try and make it seem like she had been listening.

"So, Starlight, Twilight's been telling me you've made some new friends?" Cadence asked. "The lessons are going well?"

Starlight's mouth went dry. Thankfully Twilight interjected, allowing Starlight to collect her thoughts.

"The lessons are going exceedingly well. Starlight's magical training has been going even better than I expected, and in the friendship department she's been doing well, too. She's even managed to kind of win over Discord, believe it or not. Well, as well as anypony who isn't Fluttershy can."

Cadence smiled brightly.

"I'm glad to hear that." She said.

Flurry Heart took the slight lull in conversation to start fussing, wiggling in Starlight's forelegs as she complained in her baby language.

"Uh-oh," Cadence adopted her 'mom voice' as she addressed Flurry. "looks like somepony is getting sleepy." Cadence looked to Twilight. "Twilight, would you mind putting Flurry down for her nap?"

Twilight leapt on the opportunity to go into 'Aunty Twilight mode' and grinned widely.

"Of course!" Twilight gently levitated Flurry heart over to her and stood, walking from the dining room to go lay the foal down for her nap.

Cadence watched Twilight leave, waiting a few extra moments to make sure she was gone before speaking.

"So," She smiled coyly. "who is it?"

"Who's what?" Starlight tilted her head in confusion.

"No need to hide it, Starlight. I'm the Princess of Love. I have a sixth sense for these things."

"Sixth sense for what?"

"Is it Sunburst? I always thought there could be a spark there if one of you thought about it."

"I don't-"

"Oh, it's Big McIntosh, isn't it!?" Cadence sounded excited, though Starlight was clearly not following the line of thinking that the princess was. Cadence let out a gasp and leaned forward. "Is it Twilight?" She whispered.

"Cadence, before we go further down this conversation, can you please tell me what you're talking about so we're on the same page?"

Cadence blinked in surprise. She opened her mouth, only to close it again. This repeated a few times before the pink alicorn found the words she seemed to be looking for.

"You really don't know what I'm talking about?" She asked, genuinely surprised. Starlight shook her head. Cadence sighed before continuing. "How should I put this?" She tapped a hoof to her chin. "You like somepony." Cadence's reveal was surprisingly blunt.

Starlight snorted in laughter, covering her muzzle with a hoof.

"You had me thinking it was something serious." Starlight giggled. "Although I have to say, you had me going at first. I was lost for a good moment."

Cadence's face remained surprisingly serious.

"You are joking, right?" Starlight's laughter died away, leaving her blinking in silence as Cadence's words worked their way back through the 'take this seriously' section of her brain. "No. No, no, nope. Nuh-uh. Wrong."

"Starlight-" Cadence began.

"I mean, I'm the pupil of the Princess of Friendship. I could understand falling in love with somepony if I were your student, Cadence. No offense. But I don't even think I'd be allowed to fall in love even if it were possible."

"I didn't say you were in love, I said that-" Cadence's brow creased in worry. She'd seen Twilight spiral into freak-outs before, and this was how they'd all started.

"I mean, sure I had fun spending time with Tree Hugger yesterday, but that was just me spending time with a friend. I mean sure, she's fun to spend time with. And she smells nice. But that doesn't mean I'm in love!" Starlight cried defiantly.

"I'm not trying to say you're-"

"But she does make me smile. And we're going to go watch the Agogo migration tomorrow. And she does smell nice." Starlight's pupils shrank to pinpricks. "Are we going on a date!?" Starlight struggled to catch her breath as she began to hyperventilate. "No. Nononono! I can't be- I mean, that's ridiculous! I-I have to go!"

Before Cadence could get another word in edgewise, Starlight had magicked herself from the room.

"I think I made a mistake." Cadence flattened her ears against her head as she bolted from the room. 'I need to find her before she pulls a Twilight-level freak-out.'

"Oh, Twilight's not going to like this. I was supposed to make friends with Tree Hugger, not fall in love with her!" Starlight trotted briskly through the castle, headed nowhere in particular. "What if she gets mad? What if she says I can't be her student!?" Starlight brushed past Spike, who was currently sweeping the hallway clad in a small pink apron.

"Hey, Starlight. You okay?" He called after the mare, jogging to catch up to her.

"Hmm? I'm, uh, fine. Just fine. Nothing wrong here." Starlight laughed nervously.

"Are you sure? You have that same face Twilight makes when she's about to freak out." Spike pointed out.

"Fine! Just fine. No freaking out here. No freaking in, either. Just Starlight Glimmer going for a walk through the castle." Starlight continued, keeping her pace as she turned down another hallway.

She passed by a series of doors, ignoring them as she tried thinking of a way to fix her problem.

"You look like there's a problem, though. You wanna talk about it?"

"Nope! Nothing to talk about as there is no problems here. Nothing at all." Starlight had a manic grin that said otherwise.

Starlight froze mid-step before backing up to a particular doorway. There were books on the other side. Books organized in a way that could be called a library. Books with spells. Magic spells, at that. Magic fixed everything, right? Of course it did!

Without thinking, Starlight found herself standing at a desk levitating all manner of spellbooks past her, scanning their contents frantically as she searched for something, anything, to help her.

"Let's see here... Apathos would work. Maybe some Ennuimus for some extra power... And a dash of Sokolov and Piero just to be sure." Starlight's horn began to glow with magical energy as she charged the spells she read off.

"Uh, Starlight. I don't think this is a good idea..." Spike warned with more than a little fear creeping into his voice. "Remember the last time you tried using magic to control things around you?"

"I know what I'm doing, Spike. Besides, I'm not using magic on somepony else." A second overlay of magic engulfed Starlight's horn. "I promise this won't affect anypony who isn't willing." A third magical overlay appeared, causing Spike to squint to avoid being blinded.

"I'm just gonna go get Twilight..." Spike pointed a claw out the doorway as he backed away slowly. Finally he turned and bolted away from the library. "Twilight!?" Spike yelled with urgency as the patter of his feet faded away.

Starlight, in the meantime, had finished her spell. Without hesitation, she cast it. The resulting force of the spell shook the entirety of the castle.

9. Starlight is Blunt

"Starlight, what in Equestria are you doing!?" Twilight thundered into the library with Spike on her back and Flurry Heart cradled in her magic, her voice a mix of shock and irritation. She stopped dead as her brain attempted to process the crimes against book-kind that was the aftermath of Starlight's spell.

Loose papers floated to the floor, forcefully removed from their safe, hardbound covered homes. Hardly any books remained on the shelves in Starlight's vicinity. Twilight's eyes tracked one of the last pieces of papers as it gently floated to the ground. It took her a moment to pick her jaw off the floor and collect her thoughts.

"Starlight," Twilight said through her barely contained anger. "what did you do?"

"I-" Starlight began.

"Is everypony okay?!" Cadence ran into the room. "What's all the commotion?"

"I was just trying to figure that out." Twilight answered.

"Starlight was using magic. I dunno what though." Spike chimed in.

Flurry Heart squirmed, fussing about and reaching for her mother. Cadence gently took Flurry in her magic, allowing Twilight to gently release the babe from her own magic and focus on the issue at hoof.

"Starlight," Twilight took a deep breath. "you're going to fix the library, right?"

"Yes." Starlight answered.

"Good. Now, care to explain what potentially dangerous magic you were casting in the library without any sort of safety spells in place to protect the books?" Twilight asked with a raised eyebrow. "Or yourself?" She added.

"Emotional suppression spells." Starlight answered evenly.

"Spells?" Twilight stressed. "As in plural. Like more than one?"

"Yes."

Twilight sighed and placed a hoof to her temple in an attempt to stave off the headache threatening to start.

"And you cast these on yourself?" She asked.

"Yes."

"Why in Equestria would you do that?" Frustration began to creep into Twilight's voice.

"I might be able to explain that one." Cadence piped up. "I was talking to Starlight about," she hesitated, biting her lip. "about somepony liking somepony. She... misinterpreted what I was saying and ran off before I could explain."

"Wait, what?" Twilight turned her attention to Cadence. "Who liking who?"

"Me being in love with Tree Hugger." Starlight stated with no emotional inflection whatsoever.

"You're in love?" Twilight asked in equal parts confusion and surprise.

"I didn't know Starlight had a special somepony." Spike said, slightly impressed.

"Wait, Tree Hugger's your special somepony?" Twilight turned to Starlight.

"No!" Cadence cried in exasperation, gaining everyone's attention in the process. "Starlight," She began firmly. "I wasn't saying you were in love. Not even I could tell something like that just by looking at somepony, and I'm the Princess of Love. I just wanted to know who you had a crush on. Just a crush. Nothing serious."

"Oh." Starlight blinked. If she were surprised at all Starlight didn't, or couldn't, show it.

"Now, why don't we get the library cleaned up, reverse the spell you cast on yourself, and talk about this like reasonable ponies."

"Okay." Starlight replied flatly.

Several hours, one cleaned and reshelved library, and countless attempts at a counterspell had brought Twilight and Cadence no closer to reversing the spell upon Starlight Glimmer.

"Ugh!" Twilight let her face fall into the book she was scouring as she groaned in frustration. "I can't find anything!" Twilight said into the book. "What were you thinking, Starlight?"

"I was trying to avoid feelings of love. Suppressing emotion seemed like a good way to solve the problem." Starlight replied flatly.

Twilight facehoofed, trying her hardest to avoid snapping at her pupil.

"Here you guys go." Spike, still clad in his pink apron, brought in a trolley piled with snacks and hot cocoa. "Any luck?" He asked as he began placing drinks in front of everypony.

"No. Although it would be easier if we knew how much of each spell was used." Twilight shot Starlight a pointed look. Starlight shrugged nonchalantly.

"I don't see why we need to change me back. I can still study magic and friendship this way." Starlight's tone, or lack thereof, was devoid of any inflection. It reminded Twilight of Pinkie's sister, Maud.

"But friendship is about what it makes you feel! The smiles, the arguments, the laughter when you resolve those arguments. How can you enjoy somepony's company when you can't smile, or laugh, or, or-" Twilight groaned as she looked at Starlight's stony expression. Clearly her words were having no effect upon Starlight.

"Maybe we should take a quick break. I think we're all a bit tired." Cadence suggested. Twilight grumpily mumbled something that could be considered agreement, and everypony took the moment to munch on oatmeal cookies and sip at the warm cocoa. "The cocoa is really good, Spike."

"Thanks. It's a secret dragon recipe." Spike bragged.

"Cadence?" Starlight spoke up. "How does somepony know if they're going on a date with somepony? I want to know."

Cadence tilted her head slightly, uncertain of how to take the question. It was harder than one would think, figuring out how to respond to a question when it was asked with such a plain tone.

"Well," Cadence began slowly. "usually a date is something that gets discussed beforehoof. The ponies discuss it, and if both ponies are in agreement it's a date."

"I see." Starlight responded. "I have to go do something."

"I don't think it's a good idea to leave, Starlight." Cadence cautioned, shooting a sidelong glance to Twilight.

"Okay." Starlight said. She stood and began walking from the library.

"Where are you going?" Twilight asked.

"To go do something."

"No, not until we fix you." Twilight's words carried an unspoken warning. They had no effect, however, and Starlight magicked herself from the room before Twilight could stop her. Twilight stared in horror at the spot Starlight had been standing in. "I really shouldn't have had her work on teleportation spells."

Starlight was wandering the streets of Ponyville, her head moving back and forth as she scanned everypony she passed. Any strange looks she got as a result of this went ignored by the mare, who was clearly looking for something.

"Howdy, Starlight." A deep, familiar voice greeted. "Y'all okay?"

"I'm fine."

Big Mac frowned, puzzled by the way Starlight answered.

"You sure? You sound a mite... off."

"I'm sure."

"Well, if'n you say so." Big Mac furrowed his brow, certain he was missing something. "Y'all can always talk to me if you need it. I hear I'm a good listener."

"Okay." Starlight continued on her way, oblivious to the state of confusion she'd just left one of her new friends in.

She continued through the market, checked inside Sugarcube Corner, and even checked in front of town hall. Whatever Starlight sought was nowhere to be found. She took a deep breath and turned down a side path. In the waning light of day, she knew that the next location she was going to check was dangerous. But Starlight Glimmer didn't feel fear anymore, so she trotted towards the Everfree Forest.

Starlight didn't need to head in the Everfree. Thanks to convenient timing or sheer luck, the something, or somepony in this case, wasn't in the forest. Tree Hugger trotted from the treeline, looking mildly surprised to see Starlight.

"Hey, Star. I didn't expect to see you here." Tree Hugger greeted. "I just finished up a meditation session. You should have been there. It was transcendent."

"Is tomorrow a date?" Starlight asked, catching Tree Hugger completely by surprise.

Tree Hugger flushed a light shade of pink as she opened and closed her mouth repeatedly in an attempt to process what Starlight had just asked her.

"What, like, brought this on?" Tree Hugger finally managed to ask.

"I was speaking to Cadence and she said I was in love with you."

Tree Hugger stood in stunned silence as she mulled over this information. For the longest time, she didn't say anything.

"Um, I- I need to go. I'm going to need to realign my chakras." Tree Hugger brushed past Starlight with a flustered look on her face.

Starlight watched Tree Hugger go, unsure of what was wrong. She stood in silence for a few moments after Tree Hugger had disappeared from view before trotting back to the castle.

10. Perspective

Dawn broke over Froggy Bottom Bog, allowing sunlight to filter through the trees and paint a light fog with a golden glow. It was nice. Serene even. Through the mist, two figures wearing saddlebaskets trotted along in silence. For some time, the only sounds that came from either of them were the gentle clopping of hooves on dirt and the occasional snapping of twigs.

"It's such a lovely day." One of the figures said gently, breaking the silence. "Don't you think so, Treesy?"

"It's nice." Tree Hugger agreed.

Fluttershy frowned slightly as she looked to her friend. Tree Huggers smile agreed, but her eyes told a completely different story.

"Is something the matter, Tree Hugger?" Worry knitted itself into Fluttershy's brow.

"Hmm?" Tree Hugger shook her head like she was trying to clear it. "I'm fine. Just... thinking, you know?"

"About what?" Fluttershy's eyes followed a squirrel as it ran down a tree branch and leapt to another tree.

Tree Hugger was silent for some time. After collecting her thoughts somewhat, she sighed. "I don't think I wanna talk about it."

"Okay." Fluttershy smiled politely. "I'm here if you need me." That was all she had to say on the matter. Fluttershy continued on, humming quietly to herself as she allowed her friend to think.

Tree Hugger followed about a half-length behind Fluttershy and wearing an uncharacteristic frown. Fog swirled around her hooves, playfully teasing her skin with a light chill.

The two continued on in relative silence with Fluttershy humming and watching the local critters in wonder and Tree Hugger watching her hooves plod forward. Eventually the two came to a relatively clear area with a few blackberry bushes dotted about.

"Thanks for helping me with this, Fluttershy." Tree Hugger said.

"Oh, of course. After all," Fluttershy smiled. "that's what friends are for. Although, a lot of the critters back home will love getting fresh-picked blackberries, too."

"I hope-" Tree Hugger started, only to stop mid-sentence.

"Hope what?"

"I-" Tree Hugger frowned. "I don't know. I was going to say I hope they taste good tonight, but..." The sentence hung in midair as Tree Hugger struggled to find the words. "I don't know if we're going to go."

Fluttershy frowned in confusion. "I'm sorry. Did we have plans tonight, Tree Hugger? I'm really sorry if I forgot." She lowered her head demurely. "Sorry."

"Wha- oh, no. Sorry, Fluttershy. I was talking about me and Star."

"Did you have plans together? Did- did she cancel?"

"Yes. No. At least, I don't think she did?" Tree Hugger lowered her head and scratched at the earth with a hoof. "She... she said she loved me last night."

Fluttershy blinked in surprise as she processed the words. Slowly, the gears turned in her head and her jaw dropped as she realized what Tree Hugger had just said.

"Oh my goodness!" Fluttershy's eyes widened as she brought a hoof in front of her mouth. "What did you say?"

Tree Hugger exhaled slowly and gathered her thoughts before going into her admittedly brief encounter with Starlight the night before. When she finished she stood silently with downcast eyes.

"Well, that doesn't sound like Starlight at all." Fluttershy said.

"I know. I just... She was so... gray. Like the stuff that made her unique was gone."

"I don't know what you mean." Fluttershy admitted.

"Her energy. It just didn't... flow." Tree Hugger struggled to find the right words to describe it. It was a hard thing to explain, auras and energies. Especially when you seemed to be the only one who could see things that way. Like trying to describe the color red to a pony who'd never seen it. Fluttershy nodded silently with a partial understanding of what Tree Hugger was trying to say. "Then I ran off." Tree Hugger flattened her ears against her head.

"You shouldn't be so hard on yourself." Fluttershy placed a gentle hoof on Tree Hugger's shoulder. "I don't know what I would do if somepony surprised me with something like that."

"You're probably right... I'm sorry, Fluttershy. I didn't realize I was bogging things down." Tree Hugger forced a small smile. "Let's pick some berries, okay?" Tree Hugger wasn't reassured in the slightest, though.

Fluttershy smiled gently, glad to have helped her friend at least a little bit. She and Tree Hugger began picking the delectable looking berries, carefully avoiding the thorns as they did.

"So, um, if you don't mind me asking, what were you and Starlight going to do?"

"We're going to watch the Agogo migration. Or we were... I don't know." Tree Hugger frowned.

"Oh. I'm sorry. Um, are you going to talk to her?"

Tree Hugger scratched a hoof at the ground, knowing what her answer should be.

"Do you think I'm a bad friend?" Tree Hugger broke the long silence. The two were sitting near the water's edge, eating a snack before heading back to Ponyville. Nearby sat two saddlebaskets filled to the brim with fresh berries. The sun hung high above them, though it did nothing to warm the bog.

Fluttershy was silent for a moment, letting the question hang between them. Somewhere in the distance a group of frogs created a chorus of croaking, reminding anypony who could hear where the bog's name came from.

"No." Fluttershy said firmly. "I think you reacted normally. You were scared, and you didn't know what to do."

Tree Hugger didn't seem to take any solace in Fluttershy's claim. She let herself flop backwards, staring upwards in introspection. "But what if I could have-"

"Tree Hugger," Fluttershy interrupted. "you're a kind pony. But you're still just a pony. Everypony does things they're not proud of. But that doesn't mean you can't fix what you did. You just need to go to Starlight, apologize, and talk to her about your, um," Fluttershy flushed red. "relationship."

"You're right," Tree Hugger let out what felt like the millionth sigh of the day. "I'll talk to her when we get back." Tree Hugger sat back up and wrapped her forelegs around her friend in a tight hug. One that Fluttershy did not return.

Fluttershy felt tense. Like she didn't like the contact. Tree Hugger broke away and looked at her friend in confusion.

"Fluttershy, are you..." Then she saw it. The yellowness about her friend that clung to her. Fluttershy was afraid of something. Her expression confirmed it. Fluttershy's pupils had shrunk to pinpricks as her mouth moved wordlessly.

Dread filled Tree Hugger. A small part of her seemed to disconnect, pointing out that the croaking of the frogs had stopped. Slowly she turned, looking back at the bog.

Water churned and roiled as a large figure slowly rose. Brownish scales coated the thing's thick body. Four elongated necks sprouted from the body, each capped with a head that faced the two ponies on the shore. Four pairs of eyes stared with a hunger within them. The disconnected part of Tree Hugger's mind pulled the thing's name forward from memory. Hydra.

"Fluttershy," Tree Hugger spoke in a trembling voice. "run."

Fluttershy needed no other prompts as she turned and ran into the bog, Tree Hugger just behind her.

Author's Note

Whew. This was so long overdue it's not even funny. Sorry about that. Pneumonia is no fun. On the bright side, I'm improving. Yay! :yay:

Next chapter is already in the works and should be up in a few days max. We're in the home stretch now!

If you find any mistakes please PM them to me. I worry that my medicine-addled brain may have missed something.

11. To the Rescue!

Twilight stirred slowly, pulled from her fitful sleep by a flash of light. She smacked her lips and rubbed the sleep from her eyes. Slowly the world came into focus. Embarrassingly, she realized, she'd passed out in the library, using one of the books she was reading as a pillow. She frowned slightly, silently apologizing to the book for committing such a faux pas. It was only then that she turned her attention to the source of the bright light.

Starlight Glimmer stared at a series of open books with a blank expression. After another moment, her horn lit up again and filled the library with another flash of cyan light. Twilight blinked motes of light from her eyes as she stood and approached her pupil warily.

"Starlight? What are you doing?"

"I'm attempting to reverse the spell I cast." Starlight still spoke with the same bland tone she'd had last night, Twilight noted.

"Not that I'm complaining, but what brought about this change of heart?"

Starlight remained silent for a moment as she flipped through one of the books in front of her.

"I think I made a mistake."

Twilight held back her first response of 'I know.' Instead, she chose a more tactful approach with her student.

"What do you mean?" She asked.

So Starlight recounted the brief encounter with Tree Hugger the night before. Twilight remained silent through the tale, only nodding to indicate that she was still listening.

"Then she ran off." Starlight finished. "I think I may have scared her. Did I make a mistake, Twilight?" Though Starlight spoke with an unchanging, bland tone, Twilight thought she could detect the slightest bit of... something. Concern? Sadness? She couldn't say for sure.

Twilight opened her mouth to say something to her pupil, but was interrupted by Cadence, who Twilight hadn't even been aware of before then.

"Yes." Cadence wore a stern expression as she stepped towards Starlight. "You did make a mistake." Her expression softened. "But if we're really lucky, we can fix this. Our first step needs to be to fix," She waved a hoof about, indicating towards Starlight. "this."

Twilight nodded in agreement. "That sounds like a good plan." Almost immediately, dissent came in the form of her stomach reminding her that she hadn't eaten since last night. "Actually... Maybe we should eat something first. What time is it, anyway?"

"About midday. You've both been sleeping for a long time." Starlight pointed out. "Twilight, you talk in your sleep."

"I do not! Do I?" Twilight looked to Cadence for answers, but Cadence only shrugged in response.

"I'm going to go get some food. I have not eaten yet." Starlight droned on, ignoring Twilight's reaction. Before either princess could question Starlight about where she was going, she trotted away.

"Heya, Starlight! How ya doin'?" An exuberant pink mare called from behind the counter of Sugarcube Corner.

"I'm fine."

"Fine, huh? You sound... different. Did you get a haircut?" Pinkie leaned in close to Starlight, eyeing her curiously.

"No."

"Oooh. I know! You got a hooficure!"

"No."

"I don't know what's different, but I'll figure it out." Pinkie rubbed her chin as she squinted at Starlight. In the blink of an eye, her demeanor changed back into the bubbly mare who'd greeted Starlight. "Anyway, here ya go!" A brown paper bag loaded with various goodies was set in front of Starlight, who had no idea where it had been procured from.

"How did you know-"

"Just a hunch."

Starlight passed some bits to the confusing mare and left with a bag of treats held aloft in her magic. She made it about ten steps before her world turned upside-down. Baked goods flew everywhere as Starlight found herself on her back staring at a yellow pegasus.

"Hello, Fluttershy." Starlight said. "Are you all right?"

"Starlight!" Fluttershy was panting, drenched in sweat. "You have to help! Tree Hugger, and the hydra and oh my goodness!" She broke into tears, sobs racking her body.

"Fluttershy, please explain what happened."

Fluttershy took a deep breath in an attempt to steady her nerves before explaining what had happened.

"Tree Hugger and I were at Froggy Bottom Bog picking berries when a hydra showed up!"

"I see. Go to the castle and get Twilight and Cadence. I'll go ahead and help Tree Hugger." Starlight stood, dusted herself off, and began trotting in the direction of Froggy Bottom Bog.

Fluttershy hesitated, shifting her weight on her hooves. "Be careful, Starlight." With a flap of her wings, Fluttershy was airborne, flying towards Twilight's castle as fast as she could.

Starlight was galloping as fast as her legs would carry her. It had dawned on her at some point that time might be of the essence, and since then she hadn't been able to stop herself.

"Tree Hugger?" Starlight yelled as loudly as she could. Nopony responded. Starlight ran further into the bog, calling again for Tree Hugger. And again. And again.

Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, Starlight heard something in the distance. She stood perfectly still, save for her ears which swiveled in an attempt to catch the sound again. Something large roared out in the distance.

A strange sensation seized Starlight as she began galloping towards the sound. Her heartbeat quickened and adrenaline surged through her, adding an urgency to her steps that she couldn't explain. She crashed through underbrush and low-hanging twigs, oblivious to the small cuts and scratches that they left as she passed. After some time, she broke through the treeline, coming into full view of the bog and it's murky waters. There, on the other side of the waters, was Tree Hugger.

Tree Hugger had managed to climb onto a tall spire of rock, just out of reach of the four snapping mouths of the Hydra staring up at her hungrily. She was looking about frantically, desperate for an escape from her situation. Eventually her eyes managed to settle upon the distant form of Starlight.

"Starlight!" Tree Hugger waved a hoof high in the air, desperate to get Starlight's attention. With a flash of cyan magic, Starlight was at Tree Hugger's side.

"I'm here to help you."

Tree Hugger's mouth hung open, the words she'd intended caught in her throat.

"Close your eyes for a moment, Tree Hugger." Tree Hugger obliged, and a flash of brilliant light could still be seen through her eyelids. The hydra cried out in pain and surprise as Tree Hugger felt a hoof take hold of her own. "We should run."

Tree Hugger didn't need to be told twice. She carefully clambered down from the rock spire behind Starlight and the two took off running along the water's edge. The hydra let out a primal cry of rage and began it's pursuit.

On and on the two ran, painfully aware that what little lead they'd started with was quickly evaporating. A cry of sharp pain from behind Starlight caused her to look back to find Tree Hugger had fallen, her hoof caught between two stones.

Starlight felt her breath catch in her chest as one of the hydra's heads snapped in, ready for a meal.

"No!" Starlight cried out, lashing out with her magic in an attempt to find something, anything to stop the beast. Help came in the form of a large boulder being crammed into the head's mouth by a cyan aura of magic. Starlight was at Tree Hugger's side in an instant, freeing her friend's hoof and running with her again. This time, though, she made sure to keep Tree Hugger ahead of her.

"Keep going! I see a cave up ahead!" Starlight yelled, panting for breath. She could still here the hydra coming. She could feel it reverberate through the earth beneath her hooves as she ran.

A wet hawking sound from behind Starlight was the only warning before a familiar boulder sailed above her and Tree Hugger, slamming into the rock wall ahead. The impact shook the area, raining stone down in front of the cave that the two ponies had meant to take refuge in. Starlight's stomach lurched in a strange sinking sort of way as she slid to a stop next to Tree Hugger.

The hydra stepped in closer, an expression on it's faces that could only be described as gloating as it eyed the meal it had trapped.

Starlight glanced around, hoping that she could find a way out of the situation. Nothing. The rocky area about the two ponies didn't offer any immediate form of escape. Starlight felt her rump hit stone, only then becoming aware that she'd been backing up.

One of the heads began swooping in for Tree Hugger. Time slowed to a crawl for Starlight. Her eyes widened as realization dawned on her.

'I'm going to lose my newest friend.'

With a single thought, whatever dam that was holding back Starlight Glimmer's emotions didn't just break, it shattered. With it came a surge of magic that bathed the surrounding area in a flash of light so bright that shadow itself seemed to disappear. As Starlight's eyes readjusted, she caught a glimpse of a four-headed beast sailing through the air and over the horizon.

"What... what was that?" Starlight asked, holding a hoof to her forehead in pain.

Tree Hugger stared at Starlight in shock. Her eyes darted across Starlight, intently searching for something Starlight could not see.

"Star?" Tree Hugger stepped forward tentatively. "Are you... you?"

"Who else would I be?" Starlight tilted her head in confusion, regretting it immediately as pain lanced through her head and horn. "Ow..."

Starlight felt a warm embrace as Tree Hugger wrapped her forelegs around her. Heat rose to her cheeks as she awkwardly returned the hug.

"I'm sorry." Tree Hugger whispered into Starlight's fur.

"Tree Hugger, you don't need to apologize for getting attacked by a hydra. Nopony could have predicted that." Starlight couldn't help but smile just a little.

"Not for that. For last night. You were all... different, ya know? And I totally bailed on you."

"Pshh," Starlight waved a hoof dismissively. "you didn't bail on me. If I were in your horseshoes I probably would have freaked out way worse. I mean, I kinda cast a spell to suppress my emotions, so... I guess I did freak out worse than you."

"You're not mad?"

"No. You're my friend. If anything I should be apologizing to you for springing that on you like I did."

"Is- is that how you really feel?" Tree Hugger asked softly.

A lump formed in Starlight's throat as she flushed a deep crimson. "I-"

"There you are!" Twilight, Cadence, and Fluttershy swooped in, the three of them landing next to the Starlight and Tree Hugger. "Are you all right?! Are you hurt?" Twilight immediately launched into a myriad of questions, checking the cuts and scrapes on her pupil as she did so.

"Twilight, I'm fine. A few cuts, but nothing serious." Starlight rolled her eyes. "Just make sure Tree Hugger's okay for me. Please?"

"Yeah," Twilight hesitated. "Starlight? Are you all right?"

"I'm fine. Why?" Starlight tilted her head.

"Maybe here isn't the best place to discuss things?" Cadence interjected. Nopony objected to the idea of leaving.

"Thanks again, Star." Tree Hugger whispered at Starlight's side. "You totally saved me today."

"Well, I couldn't let my friend get eaten." Starlight chuckled nervously. "I-I'm glad you're okay, though. I don't know what I'd do if..." The sentence hung over them, the morbid thought hanging over them despite not having finished the sentence.

Twilight's castle loomed in the distance, dyed orange by Celestia's setting sun. Tree Hugger stopped, letting everypony trot ahead. Starlight slowed to a stop and looked back.

"Are you okay, Tree Hugger?"

"Hmm? Oh, yeah. I was just... thinking is all."

"About what?"

"Well, the Agogo migration is tonight..." Tree Hugger hesitated, choosing her words carefully. "If you're still interested in going... I wouldn't mind you going with me."

Starlight felt heat rising in her cheeks as her mind locked up. She was vaguely aware of her mouth moving as if it wanted to answer, but words were not forthcoming. Much to Starlight's relief it was Cadence who came to her aid.

"I'm sure Starlight would love to join you, Tree Hugger, but maybe it would be best if the two of you got cleaned up first?" Cadence smiled gently.

"I, um, yeah." Starlight looked down at herself, only then becoming aware of just how disheveled she must look. "Cleaning up is a good idea."

Tree Hugger smiled lightly and Starlight felt her stomach do a backflip. "Right on. I'll meet you at the castle in a bit?"

Starlight nodded a little too vigorously.

As Tree Hugger and Fluttershy said their farewells and took a different path towards Fluttershy's cottage, Starlight looked up at Cadence with a rosy tint to her cheeks still.

"Thank you." She whispered.

Cadence smiled down at Starlight, the slightest bit of mischief glimmering in the corner of her eyes.

"Of course. But it comes with a price." A grin crept onto Cadence's face. "We're going to need to make a quick detour..."

12. The Agogo Migration

"I'm not too sure about this." Starlight frowned as she stared back at her reflection.

"What ever do you mean, darling?" Rarity idly brushed a stray lock of her mane back into place with a hoof, choosing to focus her magic on adjusting the hemline of the dress Starlight Glimmer was wearing. "And do stop fidgeting, please."

"Sorry." Starlight held as still as possible. "But is the dress really necessary? I mean, we're going to be outside. What if it gets dirty?"

"Starlight, a lady should never be afraid to look fabulous. Besides, if you're going on a date you want to impress Tree Hugger."

"I don't know if it's a date, actually." Starlight turned a shade of red that would make a tomato jealous.

Rarity stifled a giggle as she stepped back from Starlight.

"There we go! One absolutely stunning dress, if I do say so myself." Rarity twirled a hoof about in the air, indicating for Starlight to spin in place.

Starlight obliged, admittedly impressed with the work Rarity had done on such short notice. The lightweight, dark turquiose garment hung loosely, allowing Starlight to move freely. At the same time, though, it managed to hug the right curves to show off Starlight's figure without being sultry. Deep topaz stones added a perfect accent, breaking up the color of the dress perfectly.

"Oh, wow." Starlight gasped lightly. "Rarity, you've outdone yourself. This is- I don't even know what to say."

"Don't worry about it, darling." Rarity waved a dismissive hoof. "Now run along. I'm certain you've other things to do before you see Tree Hugger tonight."

Starlight looked over towards where Cadence, Twilight, and Flurry Heart were seated. "Do I?"

Cadence gave Starlight a sly smile. "We could always just stay here. Although, if you weren't at the castle to meet Tree Hugger..." She let the sentence hang unfinished.

"Oh no!" Starlight began running to the door of the boutique, only to find herself a few inches off the floor wrapped in a purple magical aura.

"Starlight, relax. I don't think Cadence was serious." Twilight couldn't help but giggle a little at the sight of Starlight flailing just above the ground.

"I- You're right. Sorry," Starlight blushed furiously as she was gently set down. "I'll try to relax." She forced herself to walk from Rarity's shop, followed by Cadence and Twilight.

"What if I say something stupid?" Starlight paced back and forth, much to the chagrin of Cadence and Twilight. "What if I do something wrong and she doesn't want to be friends anymore?"

Cadence massaged her temples with her hooves, exhaling slowly.

"Starlight. Stop." Cadence said after recollecting herself. "Tree Hugger was the one who wanted you to go with her earlier. She likes you enough to want to spend time with you. Stop stressing."

"You're right." Starlight paused her pacing. "I'm just being silly. I'm stressing over-" A knock at the door interrupted Starlight. "She's here!" Starlight's ears flattened against her head as her pupils shrank to the size of pinpricks. "I'm not ready. Tell her I'm still getting ready. I can't- Hey!"

For the second time that day, Starlight found herself being magically lifted into the air. This time, however, it was Cadence taking it upon herself to carry Starlight through the air and deposit her in front of the door. Before Starlight could object, Cadence gently pulled open the double doors with her magic, revealing Tree Hugger.

Starlight's heart leapt into her throat, refusing to allow words past it. She was vaguely aware of Twilight and Cadence excusing themselves, leaving Starlight alone with Tree Hugger.

"Hey, Star." Tree Hugger smiled. She wore a simple, light lavender dress. Her yellow bandana was gone, replaced with a crown of flowers. "You ready?"

Starlight nodded, still having trouble with the whole 'speaking' thing. Tree Hugger giggled lightly and motioned for Starlight to walk with her into the crisp evening air.

"So, how are you doing?" Tree Hugger broke the silence as the two trotted through the mostly empty Ponyville streets.

"Fine. Just fine." Starlight replied a bit too tersely.

"You seem tense..." Tree Hugger slowed her pace to look at Starlight.

"Tense? Who's tense? Not me, that's for sure." A nervous laugh escaped Starlight.

The two sank into another silence as they continued, leaving the shops and buildings of Ponyville behind in favor of an open field. Soon enough Ponyville was a distant sight on the horizon.

"Why did we come so far out? I can hardly see anything out here." Starlight looked over her shoulder back at the town.

"It's cool. You'll get the best view if there's less light."

Before Starlight could ask what Tree Hugger meant, they arrived at their destination. Or, Starlight hoped so. Otherwise they were about to steal somepony else's picnic.

"Here we are." Tree Hugger smiled and motioned a hoof for Starlight to make herself comfortable.

The picnic itself was a simple one. More of a blanket laid out and a few snacks, really. Still, Starlight couldn't help but smile at the effort Tree Hugger had put in.

"This looks lovely." Starlight sat and made herself comfortable, only having a minor heart palpitation when Tree Hugger took a seat next to her.

"Right on. I'm glad you like it."

"So, um, when do they start migrating?" Starlight looked about, seeing no creatures in sight.

"Soon. Any moment, actually."

As if on cue, a small mote of white light winked into existence in the distance. A few seconds later another appeared, followed by a third. Soon the tall grass stretching before the mares had dozens of glowing spots nestled within it. A soft gasp slipped from Starlight's lips as the first of the glowing lights floated from the grass and began lazily drifting skyward.

"Ooh..." Starlight's eyes widened at the sight.

Even as the first lights drifted up from the ground, more started to appear within the grass. Soon the grass looked more like a canvas of the night sky than an open field.

"Why do they do this?" Starlight asked, her eyes never leaving the sight of the agogos. "The lighting up thing, I mean."

"The migration is the start of their mating season. They're like fireflies like that. The lights attract a mate."

Starlight flushed slightly, suddenly realizing how close Tree Hugger sat to her. Warmth seemed to radiate from the green mare, pushing away the chill Starlight had felt earlier.

The two sat in silence, occasionally munching on some of the snacks Tree Hugger had laid out. The Agogos continued to drift upwards, drifting about almost hypnotically. Indeed, Starlight found it hard to look away from the sight.

Starlight was painfully aware of the silence. 'Should I say something? What would I say? I should say she looks nice. That's not too forward, right?' Starlight suddenly found it hard to focus on the migration. 'What if I say the wrong thing though? What if she doesn't like me the same way if I do say something?! What if-'

Starlight's train of thought was broken by Tree Hugger's gentle voice.

"Your dress is far out." Starlight turned her head to look at Tree Hugger. "I like it."

"I, uh, thank you." Starlight managed to stammer out. "I like your dress, too." Starlight hoped she was keeping a calm demeanor, but she couldn't tell over the pounding of her heart. And why was it suddenly so hot outside?

Starlight turned her attention back to the agogos, uncertain of what to say. The dancing motes of light were far above the pair now, resembling oversized stars against the clear backdrop of the sky.

"They're really pretty." Starlight said, staring upwards.

"Just wait until you see what happens next." Tree Hugger grinned, clearly knowing something about the migration Starlight did not.

"What happens next?" Curiosity temporarily buried Starlight's nervousness. "Are they leaving?"

"Not quite." Tree Hugger said cryptically.

Starlight raised an eyebrow, but quickly turned her attention back to the agogos again, not wanting to miss whatever Tree Hugger was hinting at.

Eventually, something did happen. Two of the agogos changed color, a cyan and orange light breaking the white lights of the rest of the creatures. Then two more changed color, though this time to a purple and lavender respectively.

"Why did-" Starlight began, though she cut herself off with a gasp of surprise. As if the first few had started a chain reaction, various colors swept through the rest of the agogos, a blanket of color illuminating the sky. "Oh, wow. It's so beautiful." A breathtaken Starlight managed to say in a voice barely above a whisper.

"Mhmm." Tree Hugger agreed. "I love watching the migration. It's just peaceful, watching part of the cycle of life."

Starlight's mouth hung open a bit as she stared in awe. Her attention was pulled away by a solitary agogo floating down and flitting about in front of her.

"I think it likes you." Tree Hugger giggled.

"Um, hi there." Starlight said, taken aback slightly.

Now that she was close to one, Starlight could see the agogo clearly. It looked like a tiny cloud that had been shaped into a pony, no bigger than Starlight's hoof. It tilted it's head in curiosity, flitting up and down as it quietly hummed a happy-sounding noise.

"They're adorable!" Starlight squealed in delight. She glanced over at Tree Hugger to find the mare with her own look of wonder.

"Radical..." Tree Hugger murmured.

What felt like too soon, however, another agogo flitted down next to the first. This one darted about the first, apparently getting a postive response. After only a few seconds, the two creatures changed colors. The now green and pale lavender agogos floated skyward, joining the rest of the cloud sprites in the sky.

Tree Hugger and Starlight sat in silence for some time, content to merely watch the multi-colored cloud of agogos drift lazily away.

"Hey, Star?" Again, it was Tree Hugger who broke the silence. "Can I ask you something?"

Something in Tree Hugger's voice had changed, though Starlight couldn't put her hoof on what exactly.

"What is it?" Starlight turned her attention to the other mare, briefly forgetting about the migration.

"Is-" Tree Hugger hesitated. "is this a date?"

There it was. The question that had been nagging at Starlight all evening, silently tormenting her. Starlight was pretty sure her heart stopped for a moment. Or maybe it was the world around her stopping as her mind raced at a million miles an hour. Either way, it was a long moment before Starlight was able to form any coherent thoughts. Before she could reply though, Tree Hugger continued speaking.

"Like, you asked yesterday, and I totally bailed before you got an answer. So I've been kinda wondering what tonight is, myself, you know?"

Starlight answered much faster than she expected to.

"I'd like it to be." Starlight's heart was threatening to tear itself free of her chest at this point. A small part of her wished she hadn't said that. Even as the words left her mouth she found herself second-guessing herself, slipping deeper into a panic. Starlight looked up, afraid her face would betray her panic spiral to Tree Hugger.

"Me too." Tree Hugger simply replied.

With those two words, Tree Hugger had somehow managed to end the panic rising up in Starlight. Instead, Starlight found herself smiling, attempting to maintain a semblance of normal despite the fact that her heart was now pounding from sheer joy at those two simple words.

Tree Hugger softly rested her head against Starlight's shoulder, sighing happily.

Starlight smiled as the familiar scent of juniper berries wafted about her. Soon enough, she found herself resting her head against the soft curls of Tree Huggers mane. A light giggle escaped her as the two of them watched the agogos drift further away into the night.

1. Starlight and the Stranger

"Oh, I'm never going to get this friendship thing down." Starlight moped in her room of Twilight's castle. She buried her face in her pillow, groaning in frustration as she did.

"It's not all bad. Sure, Twilight had you try and make friends with Trixie of all ponies, but she means well." Spike stood nearby, trying to comfort the mare.

"I know, Spike. I just... I worry. I feel like one wrong move and Twilight will give up on me or something. Like she'll realize I'm not cut out to be her student." Starlight turned her head to the wall, hiding the tears of frustration.

"Nah. Twilight wouldn't do that. Unless you tried messing with the past again." Spike waved a claw in dismissal before wincing. "Sorry."

"Its fine. I know what I did was wrong, and I can't ever repay Twilight and her friends for forgiving me, but I feel like I'm walking on eggshells here." The mare rolled onto her back and stared at the ceiling. "What if I never make friends outside of you and Twilight and the others?"

"Come on, you've made friends already. You reconnected with Sunburst, you made friends with Cadence, Shining Armor, um..." Spike counted the short list on his claws, trying to think of more ponies to add to the list. "Well you made three more friends than you're giving yourself credit for. That's progress." He smiled toothily, as if it would somehow quell all of Starlight's doubts.

"Yeah... Yeah. I guess you're right Spike." Starlight sat up. "Thank you. You're a good friend." She smiled at the baby dragon who had quickly become one of her closest friends.

"Aw, shucks. It was nothing." Spike blushed slightly, grateful for the praise. "If you ask me though, Twilight should give you some time to meet the ponies around town. I'm sure you'll have something in common with a lot of them." He offered. "Maybe you should just go out and meet somepony on your own terms."

"You know what, Spike? I think you're right." Starlight Glimmer stood confidently. "I think I'll go for a walk and try meeting other ponies."

"Great! I'll let Twilight know."

"No!" Starlight cried before she could catch herself. "I mean, no. Please don't. I always feel like there's more pressure when Twilight is involved. Can we just keep this a secret between us?"

"I get what you're saying. I have a tough time talking to Rar- other ponies when Twilight is around. I won't tell her unless you want me to." Spike promised.

"Thanks Spike." Starlight embraced her friend, holding him tightly.

Having spent years either avoiding, manipulating, or lying to other ponies, Starlight Glimmer had developed a bit of a complex since her reformation. More specifically, whenever she tried being around other ponies (including her new friends) she felt guilty. This guilt manifested in such a way that made her nervous in public.

It was this nervousness that made her tongue feel too big for her mouth when she tried saying hello to anypony she came across. It was the reason she found herself staring at the ground rather than straight ahead. This unintentionally caused her to collide with Ponyville's most eligible bachelor, Big McIntosh.

"Oh my gosh! I'm sorry! Are you all right?" Starlight was practically tripping over herself in embarrassment.

"Eeyup." Big Mac replied. "You?"

"Oh! Yeah, I'm fine. Sorry." Starlight Glimmer unintentionally gave her best Fluttershy impression. "Excuse me." Stralight brushed past the large stallion.

"You sure you're all right?" Big Mac questioned, causing the mare to spin back around.

"Oh, uh, yeah. Just needed to think about stuff." Starlight slowly backed away as she talked. "I have to go." She ran off before Big Mac could press the issue.

Everywhere she went ponies stared. Whispered. They were talking about her. The strange mare who managed to become Twilight Sparkle's student. The one who had no friends. Staring. Whispering.

Starlight ran as fast as she could she needed to be away from this. Away from everypony! She was suffocating in Ponyville. So she ran to the one place where she could be alone: the Everfree Forest.

The Everfree Forest was a thing of rumor and fairy tale among the residents of Ponyville. Plants grew wild and unchecked. Many of the animals that called the place home were dangerous, and more than a few ponies had disappeared into the forest to never be seen again. It was a place of solitude for Starlight Glimmer.

This was not the first time she'd retreated to the forest for the isolation part of her craved. Starlight Glimmer had retreated into the woods multiple times to avoid the scrutiny of other ponies. Being around them for any real length of time made Starlight's skin crawl. Like the gazes of other ponies were dissecting her, tearing her apart so that they could better know the monster disguised as a pony in their midst. She hated it. All of it.

There were nights where Starlight Glimmer would lay awake and contemplate disappearing altogether. But she didn't have the courage to betray Twilight like that.

So she stayed. A prisoner in her own skin.

These trips to the forest were becoming more and more frequent. The wildlife seemed to accept her presence. As of yet, Starlight had never seen another creature in the forest. It was almost enough to make her believe that the stories of creatures in the forest were just that. Stories.

But the sounds of the forest were proof of otherwise. Growls and animal cries could be heard in the distance. Closer, the foliage rustled every so often. The occasional sound of a twig snapping would reach the ears of the mare as she continued her walk. As she continued, the noises of Ponyville were quickly swallowed up by the canopy of the Everfree.

These were the rare moments when the weight of everything melted away. Stress peeled back, revealing the radiant mare that was Starlight Glimmer. She could breathe deeply, inhaling the mossy aroma of the earth around her. A smile crept back onto Starlight's features.

"So relaxing..."

Starlight tensed. She hadn't said anything. But she had definitely heard somepony speaking. She looked about wildly, having expected somepony from Ponyville to have followed her.

But who would follow Starlight Glimmer into the Everfree Forest? Fluttershy was too scared to go alone unless there was good reason. Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and Rarity were probably busy with work. Twilight was probably muzzle deep in a book. Rainbow Dash maybe? But why would she bother taking the time to follow Starlight Glimmer into the Everfree without stopping her to ask why?

A rhythmic humming began to reach Starlight's ears. Judging from the voice, it certainly wasn't Rainbow Dash. Curiosity took hold as Starlight began to follow the sound to it's source.

She didn't have to go far. A small game trail lead to a breathtaking clearing.

A multitude of flowers bloomed brightly in the meadow as small woodland creatures frolicked about. A gentle breeze whispered past, causing the flora to sway. Pillars of light forced their way through the thick canopy of the forest. And in the middle of the forest oasis, sitting cross-legged in one of the shafts of sunlight, was a green earth pony, her orange curled mane tied back by a yellow bandana.

Starlight crouched low behind a bush, curious as to what anypony else would be doing out here.

The mare in the clearing was the one making the noises Starlight had heard earlier. She continued her rhythmic chanting, breathing in deeply before letting another chant out. Her expression was one of utter relaxation. The green mare's eyes were shut, the corners of her mouth turned up ever so slightly. A few of the critters playing in the field had made their ways close to the stranger, either unaware of her or uncaring that she was there.

Starlight shifted closer, only to break the picturesque moment with the crackle of a stick under hoof.

The critters bolted from sight immediately, fearing predators. The mare, however, merely opened her eyes slowly.

"Welcome." She said aloud, as if she had already known of Starlight's presence. "Join me for some blissful meditation."

Starlight's ears flattened against her head as she considered running. It wouldn't be hard to escape this situation. Starlight doubted she'd be followed at all. But when her hooves moved they brought her forward, not away.

"Blessings. I'm Tree Hugger." The mare introduced herself as Starlight came into view.

"S-Starlight Glimmer." She replied hesitantly, wondering why she hadn't just run away.

"I'm sensing a lot of tension in your aura. You could really use some relaxation." Tree Hugger had a very distinct manner of speaking, as if the mare didn't have a negative bone in her body. She patted the grass next to her.

"I was just cleansing my chakras. Would you like to join me?"

Starlight made to shake her head no, excuse herself, and leave. Instead she found her head bobbing up and down slightly and hesitantly stepping forward.

Tree Hugger didn't seem to have any expectations of Starlight. Merely simple acceptance at her being there. She showed Starlight how to sit to "best open the harmonic pathways of the body" and began to lightly chant again when Starlight was ready.

Starlight did her best to follow along, but found herself distracted. A few of the critters from before had tentatively started to return to the area, though they kept their distance. Starlight opened an eye and peeked at Tree Hugger, who seemed to sense her discomfort.

"Relax. Nopony here will judge you. Just clear your mind and... Ohhhhm." She began her chanting again, her serene expression from before settling back onto her features.

Starlight took a deep breath and tried to follow suit. Much to her surprise, she quickly found herself falling into the same rhythm as Tree Hugger. Worries seemed to peel away bit by bit. For the first time in weeks, Starlight felt herself relax in both body and mind.

This continued for far longer than it felt like to Starlight Glimmer. As dusk settled upon the forest, the world seemed a bit brighter to Starlight. She imagined that this must be how Rarity felt after her weekly visit to the spa with Fluttershy. She opened her eyes and looked to the strange mare who'd helped her.

"Thank you. I didn't realize how much I needed this." She spoke softly, afraid that if whe were too loud the serenity she felt would be broken.

"No problem. Your aura is much cleaner than when you first showed up, too." Tree Hugger replied dreamily. "We should totally chill like this again while I'm in Ponyville."

"I..." Starlight Glimmer felt her words get stuck in her throat for the slightest fraction of a second. "I'd like that, actually."

"Righteous. I'm staying with my friend Fluttershy for a few days. I'm sure she'd be totally cool with you stopping by."

"I actually know Fluttershy too." Starlight blinked, taken aback that somepony this... open would be friends with somepony as timid as Fluttershy.

"Right on. We live in such a small and beautiful world." Tree Hugger replied.

"I should get going. My friends are probably worried about me by now." Starlight said hesitantly, wishing she didn't have to return to the world of stares and whispers so soon.

"Peace and love until next time, Starlight Glimmer." Tree Hugger replied. "Whoa, your name is sooo magical." She added, as if she'd just realized what Starlight's name was.

Starlight set off for home, feeling surprisingly refreshed after her meditations.