The Derpy I Know and Love

Chapters

CHAPTER ONE: What The Storm Blew In
CHAPTER TWO: Who Should Know
CHAPTER FOUR: A Family Outing
CHAPTER FIVE: Introductions of Several Kinds
CHAPTER SIX: Meet The Sparkles
CHAPTER SEVEN: Getting Ready
CHAPTER EIGHT: The Wedding and Pinkie Roulette
CHAPTER NINE: Nights to Remember
CHAPTER TEN: That Was Quick
CHAPTER ELEVEN: Do You Know Who I Really Am?
CHAPTER TWELVE: It’s Time
CHAPTER THREE: One Announcement, Two Revelations

CHAPTER ONE: What The Storm Blew In

Author's Note

An alternate history loosely based on Twilight Sparkle Vs. Bridl-Zilla and its sequel; Strange Bedfillies (Or, Nopony Loves Twilight Sparkle) By Tumbleweed. Some artistic license has been taken.

This story starts about a week after Lyra and Bon-Bon’s wedding…

CHAPTER ONE: What The Storm Blew In

‘The Weather Team sure did a great job with this storm,’ thought Twilight Sparkle.

Indeed the storm was raging outside. It hit right after Princess Celestia lowered the Sun and Princess Luna had raised the Moon.

Twilight got up and looked out the window in time to see a brilliant flash of lightning as the rain beat on the window.

“Not a night to be outside for pony or beast,” Twilight said aloud to no pony in particular.

There was an odd feeling of Déjà Vu.

Spike was away in Canterlot one of those assignments given by Princess Celestia. Being trained by such an organized pony as Twilight, Spike had developed some great clerical skills which made him invaluable to the Royal Library especially when it was time to reorganize.

The purple pony returned to her sofa and book, almost absentmindedly levitating another log on the fire while refilling her teacup simultaneously. For the greater population of Unicorns, this would be a stretch. But for the most talented and therefore most powerful Unicorn in Equestria, it was second nature.

She was surprised at herself. Here she was reading a priceless manuscript by Star Swirl the Bearded and yet her mind wasn’t on the great wizard’s writing. Her mind was still dwelling on that dream she had, just a couple of days ago.

Suddenly there was the sound of somepony knocking at the door. Twilight got up and rushed to the door.

“Who in the hoof can that be!” she exclaimed. She didn’t understand why she was feeling excited for this. Almost like she was expecting it in the depth of her mind. Not just her mind, her heart.

She reached out with her magic and opened the door enough to peek out as she approached.

There standing, dripping wet and shivering, was a familiar blue-gray Pegasus pony mare with a blond mane and tail and unmistakable crossed golden eyes. Twilight couldn’t remember her ever coming to the library even during regular hours.

“Derpy! Get in here before you catch your death of cold!”

“Thank you, Miss Sparkle,” she said shivering and entering the room. Twilight closed the door behind her.

“I apologize for the late hour, but I wasn’t sure if I should’ve come at all.”

Twilight had never had any close contact with Derpy, she’d seen her around and noted the eyes before but had never been in a face to face conversation with her. Rainbow Dash had spoken of her before but never very highly. Always as some kind of scatterbrained klutz, short attention span and perhaps a little mentally deficient. Now with her here in Twilight’s front room, reserved almost as much as Fluttershy had been on their first encounter, speaking very politely if not formally. It was hard to reconcile this pony with the pony Rainbow spoke of.

Twilight summoned some towels and with her magic, briskly dried off the forlorn looking mare before her.

“Thank you Miss Sparkle,” she said barely looking up.

“Please! Call me Twilight,” said Twilight, “I take it that you’re not delivering any mail at this hour, are you here as part of the Weather Team?”

“Neither Miss Spar... I mean, Twilight.” Stammered Derpy. “I’m in need of somepony to talk to. Rainbow Dash said you’re the smartest pony she knew. And I could really use an intelligent pony to talk to.”

Twilight was intrigued and mystified. It was nice that Rainbow Dash would recommend her so highly. But what could this pony need that made her come out on such a nasty night.

“I was just having some tea, would you like a cup? It’ll help warm you.”

“Oh yes. That’d be lovely.” Said Derpy finally looking up and giving a week smile.

Twilight motioned to the sofa. Derpy sat down on one end while Twilight fetched another teacup, more water and the canister of her prized tea blend. Derpy saw the book Twilight was reading and looked closer. Holding a hoof over one eye, Derpy read the title. Twilight walked back in and wasn’t sure what to make of Derpy’s actions.

“Magic and Science, the Balance of the Universe,” Derpy read aloud, then looking at Twilight as she came back in with the tea (her hoof still over one eye),

“I thought it was a good primer, but a little biased on the magic side. Probably due to it being written by a Unicorn.”

Twilight dropped the tray in shock, but caught it with her magic before it hit.

“You’ve read Star Swirl the Bearded?” She asked in disbelief.

“Oh yes, when you’re raising two beautiful Unicorns, you need to know these things to help them in school,” said Derpy matter-of-factly.

Twilight levitated a fresh cup of tea to her guest. Derpy politely sipped, her eyes went wide.

“Hibiscus and juniper!” Exclaimed Derpy, “with a touch of wormwood to add the right bite. I’d know a Zecora blend anywhere. I don’t get enough time to get my own from her as much as I’d like. But it’s such a joy to sit and talk with Miss Zecora. Her speech patterns are like music. From a linguistics standpoint, I don’t know how she keeps it up.”

Twilight sat on the couch near Derpy, sipping her own tea and trying to believe the pony sharing tea with her and the “screw-up” spoken so lowly of by Rainbow Dash, a pony she trusted the word of implicitly, were the same pony. The look on Twilight’s face didn’t go unnoticed.

“I’m sorry, have I said something wrong?”

“Elysium no!” replied Twilight, “it’s just your knowledge of ancient Unicorn writing, herb lore, and forgive me, but your knowledge, manner and demeanor aren’t what I was expecting, or at least what I was led to believe.”

Derpy looked down, a shadow passed over her expression.

“That’s why I’m here”.

Twilight was intrigued, what did this pony expect from her?

“What can I do to help you, Derpy?” asked Twilight.

“Muffins,” she replied meekly.

“Beg pardon,” said Twilight slightly confused that this mare would ask Rainbow for somepony to talk to and at this time of night only to ask for something to eat. “I’m afraid I don’t have any muffins. I might have a scone or two if you’re hungry.”

“No Twilight, my name is Muffins, Muffins Star. Everypony calls me that name or ‘Ditsy Do’ because of my eyes, because I tend to be accident prone.” Said Muffins, tears welling up in her eyes.

“Try going through life, holding down two jobs, raising two daughters alone, trying to fly or walk or even try to play chess while looking in two different directions!”

“I didn’t know,” said Twilight, reaching out her foreleg and putting it around her shoulder.

Twilight pulled her close. Muffins buried her face in Twilight’s chest sobbing uncontrollably. Emotions for Twilight weren’t a strong suit, but her heart was melting for this distraught, misunderstood pony. With her other foreleg she stroked Muffins’ mane with her hoof. It was very soft and soothing to the touch.

And most surprising, it was arousing to Twilight. Her recent love crisis had Twilight constantly thinking of her solitude and how much she may have wanted to have a pony in her embrace.

The day she woke up with Pinkie Pie in her bed, somehow just wouldn’t leave her mind when she was alone. To have dreamed of sex and with her friend was something she couldn’t shake. She remembered how she was surprised to open her eyes to the beautiful blue eyes of the pink Earth Pony, the same pony she was just dreaming about. But somehow, Twilight was suspecting that it was perhaps more than a dream, but Pinkie said that there wasn’t any sex, so she had to take her friend at her word.

And Twilight couldn’t understand why she was disappointed at the fact. That episode, just days ago must have really struck a nerve. Opened her eyes to something that she hadn’t ever admitted to herself. Even with having made wonderful friends, she was lonely at the deepest level. She now understood that she wanted love, not just the emotion, but the physical aspect as well. She wanted to hold a pony and to be held, caressed. She wanted to have sex.

This wasn’t exactly what she’d had in mind, but it was nice never the less.

Without stopping her crying, Muffins wrapped her wings around Twilight. A new and not unpleasant experience. Twilight was close to many Pegasi, a couple were closer to her than sisters. But never once had any hug turned into this. If Rainbow or Fluttershy were here, they’d have explained just how deeply a sign of trust and perhaps affection this was.

“I’m sorry,” said Muffins retracting her wings, setting up and wiping her eyes. Twilight left her leg around her shoulder. Muffins worked up a little smile and looked into Twilight’s eyes. At this close range, Muffins visual accommodation forced her eyes into an almost normal gaze.

‘Her eyes are so pretty like this,’ thought Twilight. Something was moving in her she didn’t understand.

“I told Rainbow Dash I needed somepony to talk to about my life. You can only take it so long before the pain has to come out. At first Rainbow Dash almost ignored me, then she saw I was in earnest.”

‘Fluttershy is a good listener,’ said Rainbow Dash.

‘Fluttershy is a very nice pony, but I need somepony with perhaps a little more knowledge. Especially magic.’ I told her.

At that Rainbow Dash said, ‘Twilight Sparkle! She’s the smartest pony I know.’

I told her I didn’t want to bother a pony as important as you, and there could be complications, but she insisted you’re the right pony.”

‘Complications?’ thought Twilight,

“I’m sure Rainbow and you are exaggerating.” Said Twilight.

“What?” replied Muffins. “You’re a lovely pony everypony loves.”

‘Lovely pony?’ Thought Twilight.

“You’ve an important job here. You’re apprentice to Princess Celestia. Since the time you’ve moved here you and your friends have saved Equestria twice. No three times, if you count what happened at The Royal Wedding. You vanquished an ursa minor all on your own.

You’re not royalty, but even Princess Luna deferred to you last Nightmare Night. If you’re not an important pony, then I don’t know who’d be.”

Twilight blushed, she was never a pony to be comfortable with somepony ‘singing her praises’.

“How can I help?”

“Let me start with, I wasn’t always this way. I grew up in Canterlot, strange for a Pegasus, I know. And it was there I met one of the most wonderful Unicorns ever. Shooting Star was older than I was, he’d been married before and had a ten-year-old daughter. She never really knew her mother and was so happy to have a mother figure. You probably know Sparkler,” Muffins saw a look on Twilight’s face showing she didn’t.

“I’m sorry, it’s what we call her. Her real name is Amethyst Star.”

“I know Amethyst,” responded Twilight happily, “She’s a part time nanny to many ponies here in Ponyville and a real sweet pony to talk to. She checks out books all the time for the foals she watches.” Muffins smiled to hear Twilight praise her daughter like that.

“As I was saying, Shooting Star was about ten years older than myself. In fact I wasn’t a lot older than Sparkler, not quite nineteen. Shooting Star’s first wife, Ivy, had died of Pony Pox when Sparkler was very young, she barely knew her. Shooting and I met while I was interning at the Canterlot Institute of Science.”

“Wait!” interrupted Twilight, “He was the Shooting Star? His work on the understanding of the Science of Magic is required reading at Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns.”

Twilight stopped, the color drained from her cheeks.

“The explosion,” Twilight whispered, as the sorrow returned to Muffins face. “there was only one survivor.

And...

That...

Was...”

“Me.

Shooting Star was convinced he’d found the key to make magic through science. He thought it’d be a boon to all of ponykind, Earth Ponies not having to manipulate everything with their mouth or hooves. Pegasi not having to land somewhere in total black. Able to do little things most Unicorns take for granted. Not like potions and incantations, but with physics and equipment, real science.

I’d went to the restroom and was returning to the lab when It happened.” Muffins stopped to take a breath. Twilight lowered her leg and took Muffins hoof. Muffins looked at Twilight and gave a thankful smile.

“I was in grad school when it happened.” Said Twilight, “but I never learned what was the cause.”

“As I said, Shooting Star was on the verge of success, or so they thought. They were going to try a small levitation spell figuring it’d be a good start. Nothing too flashy, something every Unicorn is taught from the time they’re little. I’d just entered the door, Shooting Star looked over at me and smiled his ‘I know I’m right’ smile. He activated the switch and then, and then...”

“Its okay,” said Twilight, “you don’t...”

“Yes I do, I’ve never spoken of this to anypony. I need to get this out!

There was a glow, a book rose off the table. There were high hooves all around.” Muffins breathed hard several times tears streaming from her eyes. “Then came the flash! It happened so fast, but it all was slow motion, of the five of us working on the project, I was the only pony who wasn’t a Unicorn. Apparently that saved me. The flash struck out like lightning at each Unicorn’s horn. It struck me between the eyes. The look of terror and pain in the other’s faces still wakes me screaming in the night.”

She looked into Twilight’s eyes. Twilight saw a level of terror she herself hoped she’d never have to face.

“He and the others WERE the explosion! Not the equipment, not the chemicals, not the spell. It was as if all their bodies were converted into pure energy. The shock slammed me through the wall,

When I woke up, it was a month later. I was in the ICU of the Magic Hospital in Canterlot Castle. Sparkler was holding my hoof, like you’re doing now. I opened my eyes, she smiled at me then she looked and me with an odd look.

‘Mom!’ She screamed.

She ran to the door and yelled for a doctor. I was only beginning to notice I was having trouble focusing on objects more than a leg’s length. The doctor came galloping into the room and skid to a stop when she saw me.

‘How are you feeling?’ asked the doctor.

I told them I was having trouble seeing clearly. Sparkler brought me a mirror. That was the first time I saw these eyes.

They took me for some tests and couldn’t find anything they could do to fix it, the massive release of magic was the cause. My head was where the brunt of the force was absorbed. A good thing too, for the next thing the doctor said was an even bigger shock, but not as unpleasant.

‘We’ve found except for your eyes everything else is fine with you. However, you’ll need some physical therapy after being out and inactive for a month. It’s amazing the foal survived such a shock.’

Foal? both Sparkler and I said at the same time. I didn’t know and Shooting Star never knew. I was in the hospital about another month. Mostly relearning how to walk, how to fly, how to feed myself and do the things I needed to do. When I went home, Sparkler and I just didn’t feel comfortable in our house without Shooting Star. So we decided to move somewhere away from Canterlot, so we moved to Ponyville. Princess Celestia, who I later found out had come by to check on me several times, funded the move and got me a job with the Equestria Postal Service, things were and still are tight so I also got a job with the Weather Team.”

“That was eight years ago. We settled down here, I delivered my foal, she’s my sweet little Cookie. Her name is Dinky.”

“I know Dinky, she goes to school with my friends’ sisters.”

“Yes, the Cutie Mark Crusaders, I think Dinky wishes she could join in with them, she talks about them all the time. But she knows I need all the help I can get at home. I now share rooms with Carrot Top, as we call her, Golden Harvest is her name. It can get crowded, Carrot Top has a coltfriend over from time to time so I sleep with Cookie. Sparkler usually sleeps at a clients or at a friend’s.”

Muffins breathed deeply several times, it had been a drain on her opening up this much hurt for the first time. And somehow by being at the school when and where the accident claimed her husband, made Twilight feel a small connection with the mare she was now sitting next to holding hooves.

“Muffins,” started Twilight, “I’m so honored you chose to open up to me.”

Muffins gave Twilight an odd look.

“There was another thing, the reason I was reluctant to come to you. You’re a pony as smart as my Shooting Star was. As I said you’re well respected and I wasn’t sure how you’d take it.”

Twilight sat back a bit, not sure what to think.

“What do you mean?”

Twilight’s answer came in a most unexpected way. Muffins had looked again in Twilight’s eyes. Twilight saw something she couldn’t identify. Not until what happened next. Muffins leaned over and kissed Twilight, it was a kiss Twilight had never experienced before, but had dreamed of, especially recently with Pinkie Pie, she couldn’t quite shake that dream. Both Muffins and Twilight’s forelegs wrapped the other.

Twilight didn’t have much, if any, experience with kissing, other than the Mother, Father, Brother kind. Or the girly friend to friend thank you, hello/goodbye kind. She’d read books on the subject, both factual and erotic. The whole idea had disgusted her, somepony’s tongue in your mouth, their saliva, it didn’t sound very sanitary.

But now that didn’t even enter her mind. The kiss sent a very pleasant shock through her that she’d never felt before. She felt a thrill deep in her belly.

It took her breath away.

Was this right? Muffins is a mare! She’d fought with this in her mind when she was told Bon-Bon and Lyra Heartstrings were getting married. And the fantasy(?) about she and Pinkie didn’t appear to bother her that they both are mares. Did it really matter? Twilight broke the kiss, but didn’t back off.

“I’m so sorry!” said Muffins trying to pull away, but Twilight held her close.

“Don’t be,” said Twilight. “I’ve never kissed anypony before. I never put much thought to the idea, with stallion or mare. And I don’t think it matters now. I just don’t want it to be the moment, the vulnerability from opening up so much hurt.”

“It is the moment, but the moment opened up an opportunity that may’ve never come again.” Answered Muffins, “but if you’d rather just play chess, or you want me to leave, Cookie is being watched by Sparkler...”

Muffins didn’t get to finish what she was saying, she had been taught not to talk with her mouth full. And right now it was full of Twilight’s tongue. Muffins once again wrapped her wings around Twilight.

After the experience waking up with Pinkie Pie in her bed, Twilight had been feeling an emptiness, one that she never let herself acknowledge before. It was a longing to be loved at more than just the emotional level. Twilight was craving the physical aspects as well. She had actually been considering the offer of ‘pity sex’ with Pinkie. But she was reluctant to do this. Twilight knew that Pinkie could give her what she wanted without issues. Twilight was sure it would be enjoyable. But Twilight was afraid that she herself would make some emotional attachment to her friend, more than what she thought was being offered.

Not that Twilight was desperate or a slut, but something inside wanted this beautiful pony more than she ever wanted anypony or anything. Something deep in her heart and mind told her that this was the right thing to do.

Twilight wanted to have a pony in her life, a pony to share with, a pony to be with, a pony to be a mate and helper. Somepony to grow old with.

Now Twilight was starting to suspect her wish had been granted.

There was a purple glow from Twilight’s horn. Muffins heard the door bolt, the curtains were drawn. The lights and fire went out.

The next thing was something she’d never experienced before, not even with Shooting Star. The purple aura surrounded them and all of the sudden, she wasn’t on Twilight’s couch and not in the same room. She was sitting on a bed in an upper room. More cozy with dim lights and a small fire going.

They broke the kiss, Twilight looked questioningly into Muffins eyes. Twilight didn’t want to overstep her bounds and assume something that she was hoping was being offered. It was all new to her.

Muffins recognized this and knew that Twilight needed to be assured. She was glad that Twilight had the decency to at least make sure it was okay with her.

Muffins smiled a private smile and nodded her head.

No more questions needed to be asked. Muffins had noted Twilight’s inexperience so she took the lead and gently lowered Twilight to her back. Then retracting her wings, Muffins kissed Twilight for a while, then she started to move the kiss down Twilight’s cheek, neck, chest. Muffins paused at Twilight’s navel licking and kissing deeply. Twilight moaned without even knowing why. Twilight had never been so aroused before. Her groin felt warm and wet, she’d read about this but the feeling was strange. Muffins worked down lower to just between her hind legs. Twilight had never given much thought to her nipples, but now with Muffins tongue on them and her gently sucking them, it was all she could do to not go crazy. Muffins repositioned herself on the bed, parallel to Twilight with her head between Twilight’s legs and her back knees by Twilight’s head. Her soft tail twitched across Twilight’s face. Muffins proceeded to move down between Twilight’s hind legs, Twilight let them naturally fall away, and instinctively relaxed the muscles which normally would hide her marehood. Twilight could feel Muffins hot breath on her marehood. There was a kiss on the sensitive lips then what happened next, Twilight was expecting from her books, but the actual feeling made her hips jump. It was like the dream with Pinkie Pie, Muffins inserted her warm tongue into Twilight. Never had she ever expected to feel pleasure this way. Muffins licked in and out around and back in. She zeroed in on Twilight’s clitoris. It was like electricity. It even made her more curious because it felt exactly like the dream she had when she’d discovered Pinkie in bed with herself.

Twilight fought to remember some of the techniques and instructions she’d read.

“Move over some, please.” Twilight whispered.

Twilight reached out to Muffins hips and moved her over so that her partner was straddling her head.

Muffins happily complied with Twilight’s request and lowered herself to within Twilight’s reach. Muffins relaxed the muscles that hid her marehood from view. Despite dreaming of this with Pinkie, Twilight never thought she’d actually be in this position, ever. But the sight of Muffins marehood right in front of her nose, the warmth, the smell, it wasn’t what she expected. Instead of being revolted, it was driving her wild. With her hooves directing Muffins hips, Twilight guided Muffins down the last couple of inches.

Uncertain, of herself she first tried kissing it, then with fear and trepidation, she inserted her tongue. She felt the muscles in Muffins hips tighten. Twilight started exploring Muffins marehood. Her tongue feeling out every part. Then she focused on the little bump that Muffins was working on, on her own marehood. Twilight took the clitoris between her lips and gently sucked on it while stimulating it with her tongue. A moan escaped from Muffins, the vibration of the sound helped to stimulate her even more. The act of pleasuring this mare was as exciting as being pleasured. They were at this for a time when Twilight felt something growing in her, it spread from the tips of her back hooves to the point of her horn. She felt Muffins tighten her muscles, her hips stopped grinding and started to almost vibrate. Muffins let out a shriek but kept at Twilight. Twilight returned the favor.

It was the most intense thing that ever happened. Not even releasing the power of the Elements of Harmony was this powerful. Muffins rolled off and collapsed. Both mares were breathing hard. Twilight had never felt an orgasm before, except in her dream. She could hardly catch her breath. Muffins turned around and held Twilight close. They kissed deeply and long.

“Muffins… I never… I never...” said Twilight, trying to catch her breath.

“Then I’m so honored to be your first.”

“Is this it? I don’t know anything anymore. I just want to go on forever.”

“Maybe not forever, but we still have the night.” Said Muffins between kisses. “I want you to know I’ve not been with anypony since Shooting Star. I was always afraid all I’d do is think of him and not who I was with.”

“Did you?”

“Not once,” said Muffins between kisses.

They continued kissing then Muffins broke away. Twilight looked confused. Muffins smiled as she slid down the bed. She got between Twilight’s legs pulled one leg beneath her and put her opposite leg over Twilight. Twilight remember this ‘scissors’ position from a particularly erotic book and knew what to do. Twilight scooted in toward Muffins. Their marehoods touched, it was so warm, moist and soft. It didn’t take any instructions for Twilight to know what to do. Her hips started grinding against Muffins on their own and Muffins was doing the same.

On into the night they made love. Muffins had given Twilight her first orgasm, then the second, then the third.....

The storm outside, the fire in the fireplace, the world itself didn’t exist. Only herself and the beautiful mare she was sharing herself with.

CHAPTER TWO: Who Should Know

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CHAPTER FOUR: A Family Outing

“Okay,” said Twilight to her little family. “we’re running late. We have to hurry to catch the train for Canterlot.”

Spike had asked to stay behind, he wasn’t sure if he could handle all the lovey-dovey stuff Twilight and Muffins had been displaying. Pinkie Pie volunteered to feed and keep an eye on Spike so he didn’t constantly use all the hot water in Ponyville while taking his bubble baths.

“I think we have everything,” said Muffins looking at everypony’s saddlebags. “Cookie, stay up with your sister. Let’s go dear.”

“Princess Celestia offered a suite in the castle, because it’d be too crowded at my parents.”

With that they all went out the door only to find Princess Luna’s cart being drawn by four of Luna’s dragon-winged Pegasi.

“Our lady, Princess Luna, sent us to make your trip to Canterlot quicker and easier.”

Muffins leaned over to Twilight and whispered.

“These guys give me the creeps.”

“Then we’re doing our job ma’am.” Said the guard with a wink and a smile.

Muffins was shocked they heard her.

“Worry not,” said the guard, “our mistress commanded to treat each of you as we would her.”

“Please get in so we can go,” said the another guard.

The little family climbed in to the cart, there was one large seat where Princess Luna would sit. Twilight suggested Sparkler sit there and hold Dinky in her lap.

“Ready gentlecolts,” said Twilight.

The guard spread their wings ran forward for about 10 feet then with a rush of wings, they were climbing a gentle angle. Muffins spread her wings instinctively. But stayed planted on the cart. Twilight leaned over to whisper to her fiancée.

“I can think of something else you could do with those wings.”

“Twilight! In front of the children!” giggled Muffins.

One of the guards turned and spoke.

“I’d not mind hearing what you’d want her to do.”

“Holy Horseshoes!” said Muffins.

The guard laughed and turned his head back to what he was doing.

“Mommy!” exclaimed Dinky, “can you fly this high? This fast? It’s so cool!”

“Yes Cookie, mommy can fly this high and fast, even more. The ponies pulling us are weighed down by the cart and our weight.” Then Muffins turned addressing the guard, “And they know better than flying too fast with children aboard.”

Muffins winked at Dinky and then jumped into the air, raced ahead of the cart. She climbed quickly to a greater height, then plunged straight down past the guard, and was lost in the clouds.

“Mommy!” screamed Dinky. Trying to pull away to look where she’d gone.

“What’s wrong Cookie?” said Muffins gently landing in the cart from behind.

“Was that necessary?” asked Twilight, a little cross. Sparkler was thinking the same thing.

“I’m sorry Dear.” She said meekly, “it’s hard for a Pegasus to stay grounded while they’re in the air.”

“Do it again! Do it again!” giggled Dinky.

“No! Don’t do it again!” said both Twilight and Sparkler.

After a pause;

“Although, it was about as flashy of a move as any Wonderbolt would’ve done.” Then Twilight softly said, nuzzling her fiancée. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to speak to you like that. I was only concerned. I didn’t realize I was engaged to Rainbow Dash.”

“You better not be! Now that everypony knows the way you swing!”

They both chuckled. Dinky continued to take the trip in wide wonder, but truth be told, Sparkler was about as excited as her sister. Twilight was use to flying, being an accomplished hot air balloon pilot.

They arrived at Canterlot train station, where their bags had been sent ahead the previous day, in about a quarter of the time the train would’ve taken. Instead of getting there in the late evening, they were there about lunchtime. Twilight thanked the guard and ask them to tell the princess they’d be thanking the princess in person a bit later. With that they shot off into the sky toward the castle.

“What do you say we get some lunch?” Asked Twilight.

“Oat burgers and hay fries!” squealed Dinky.

“Okay, because it’s your first trip to Canterlot,” smiled Muffins, “you can have some junk food. But! You’re going to have a good meal tonight at Twilight’s parents. Deal?”

“Deal, mommy.”

“I sure love that little Cookie,” said Twilight to her fiancée.

“You better, you’re stuck with her.”

“If you’re worried about me spoiling her, you’ve nothing to be concerned about.” Said Twilight, “but my parents, I’m afraid it’s going to take weeks to get her back inline when they’re done.”

Muffins laughed as they walked toward the nearest Mac Donkey’s.

After eating, the group started to walk to the castle. Dinky was amazed Twilight could make her drink float in front of her without Twilight even looking. Suddenly she got a strange look on her face.

“Mommy?”

“Yes Cookie,” replied Muffins.

“If Twilight is going to be my mommy too, do I still call her Twilight?”

Twilight stopped, turned to face the little filly.

“What do you want to call me?”

“If I call you mommy you wouldn’t know who I’m talking to.”

“That’s a very intelligent statement,” said Twilight. Dinky blushed at the praise. “What would you like to call me?”

Dinky thought, looked at Muffins, Sparkler and back to Twilight.

“Would it be okay if I call you… Mom?”

“Cookie, you don’t know how happy it’d make me if you called me mom.”

Twilight levitated Dinky over to her, Dinky squealed with glee.

“Mommy! I’m flying, just like you.”

Twilight caught her and covered her little face with kisses.

“I love you so much, Cookie,” said Twilight.

“I love you too... Mom.”

Because of her duties, Sparkler had been to Canterlot several times. She was a guest with a prominent family to the Royal Wedding, the Wonderbolts Derby and even the Canterlot Garden Party. She’d got to attend many High Society Functions, so she was know by sight to Fancypants, Jet Set, Upper Crust, Hoity Toity and other members of the Canterlot Elite.

But to be having a private audience with the princesses was giving her a thrill. She’d had interactions with Twilight Sparkle, on a professional level, from her daily doings.

Only now she was starting to realize just how important this quiet, reserved pony was. She’d heard her mother speak of always wanting to meet Twilight. She always felt that her mom had some kind of crush on the purple pony, which turned out to be true. After all, she was a very important pony. More importantly, she appeared to not know or she just didn’t care.

Sparkler at first didn’t know what to think about her mother crushing on a mare, even an important mare like Twilight. But now the time she’d spent in the company of Twilight, she understood the explanation Twilight had given at the announcement party. Twilight didn’t love her mother because she was a mare, and her mother didn’t love Twilight because she was a mare. They are two ponies very much in love with each other, the fact they were both mares didn’t appear to enter into the equation. It was also a plus Twilight had opened her heart and home to Dinky and even to herself.

She felt genuine affection for this mare who’s love of her mother couldn’t be doubted. Sparkler had always tried to shield her mother from ponies who’d try to take advantage of her perceived disability.

To her dearest surprise, Twilight didn’t see a googly-eyed simpleton. But a very special and intelligent pony she accepted as an equal. Especially after getting her purple rump kicked three times in a row by her mom at chess. The only reaction by Twilight was a huge kiss.

Yes, this is a pony she could love.

“Twilight.”

“Yes Sparkler?”

“I don’t feel right calling you mom, but I think because of our situation, Twilight seems too formal.”

“My closest friends call me ‘Twi’. I dearly hope I can count you as one of my close friends. They’re all special ponies and I see in you a heart and spirit as great as any one of the five.”

“I think I’d love that, Twi.” Sparkler blushed, she realized that Twilight had just put her on the same footing of her five friends. Each pony a true hero and pony of impeccable character.

And now she was on the way for Twilight to introduce her and Dinky to Princess Celestia and Princess Luna. She was feeling about as giddy as a school filly.

CHAPTER FIVE: Introductions of Several Kinds

AJ and Rarity were laying on the bed in their suite. They were ‘taking a break’. Bolts of fabric lined the walls. There were dress forms everywhere, at night they looked like ghostly ponies. AJ was a little creeped out at first.

AJ looked at the beautiful pony she was holding. Rarity was everything AJ wasn’t. Rarity was looking into AJ’s green eyes.

Applejack took a deep breath as she sighed due to the contentment that making love to her beloved Rarity always brought.

As Applejack breathed in she could detect the perfume Rarity had put on that morning, or at least what was left of it. However, the smell which excited the orange Earth Pony more was the lingering sent of the intimate interaction they’d just performed.

Everything about Rarity excited AJ. Just a couple of years ago, if anypony had told her she’d be excited by the smell of some mare’s marehood, she’d still be laughing. But now, the personal smell of Rarity on the sheets, her hooves and her muzzle was making AJ’s heart race. To AJ, it was the smell of love.

“Do you remember the first time you held me?” asked Rarity snuggling a little closer.

“Do you mean at Twilight’s slumber party? When she scared the ‘horse-apples’ out of us with the ‘Headless Horse’ ghost story.” AJ kidded.

“No silly,” said Rarity giving AJ a little love tap, “when you first really held me?”

“How could I forget?” Said AJ giving Rarity a little kiss and laying on her back. She thought back…

A little over a year ago at the reception for Bon-Bon and Lyra’s wedding…

There was a lot of alcohol, thanks to Pinkie Pie. It was Pinkie’s way of getting the party in high gear. Unfortunately, Pinkie was the lightest of lightweights. Pinkie was almost always the first out, and everypony had to be careful not to tread on the pink pony.

Due to the drama leading up to the ceremony(1), it was evident that everypony was drinking perhaps too much.

Bon-Bon and Lyra were all over each other. Much to the chagrin of Rarity, they’d destroyed their wedding dresses before the ceremony and now there were no physical impediments to each other’s bodies. Some ponies were worried the two might decide to consummate their marriage right then and there. Although some ponies, like Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie, wouldn’t have minded the floor show.

Twilight was in the corner trying not to be sick on the carpet, like she had at the last party.

Big Mac was talking with the mail pony, AJ was aware her big brother has had a crush on the blue-gray Pegasus mare for some time. To listen to him, it was getting serious, and he was trying to be as outgoing as he could. But to everypony else, you didn’t need to be near to see she was more intent on paying attention to what Twilight Sparkle was doing and less of what Big Mac was saying.

Applejack herself was trying not to drink too much, but in a party like this, it was hard not to. She had a reason to not get too badly ‘horse-apple faced’. That reason was a white Unicorn.

Rarity was drinking a bit more than AJ had seen her drink before. Applejack was trying to keep her company, i.e. out of trouble. This time more than most due to the fact there were a number of stallions from out of town who were trying to get Rarity to notice them and their intentions were clear. It was the ‘after wedding’ syndrome which caused some ponies to want to join the ‘consummation festivities’.

As usual, Applejack and Rarity were bickering.

“Rarity,” said Applejack. “Don’t you think you should slow down with that stuff?”

“Oh pooh!” slurred Rarity, “I know when to drink stopping!”

“Huh?”

“I know when to stop drinking!” Exclaimed the white Unicorn, frustrated a rube like Applejack would tell her what she was doing wrong.

Even if Applejack was right.

Unfortunately, Rarity was being reminded of another party…

The party…

The Grand Galloping Gala. She was so sure she was going to be introduced to Celestia’s nephew, Prince Blueblood. She just knew that the prince would be smitten by her charm and beauty, he’d fall deeply in love with her immediately. It’d be a fairytale love story with she and the prince living happily ever after.

But it turned out the prince was already smitten…

With his own self.

He was the most rude, self-absorbed, narcissistic, JERK Rarity ever had the displeasure to spend an evening with. He’d allowed Rarity to be with him only to make himself look even better.

Rarity was wondering why every relationship ended in heartbreak and disappointment. It was perhaps the curse of beautiful mares who intimidated the good colts; they’d be afraid to ask them out. And the ones who were only looking for a ‘trophy’ at their side to make themselves look good, were the only ones who ever approached her. And so, her social life turned out to be just one disaster after another.

Rarity suddenly felt her stomach tell her that Applejack was more than right, it had too much alcohol and perhaps it was going to get rid of some of the offending substance. Rarity had enough presence of mind to know she didn’t want to do anything as un-ladylike as to be sick on the floor or soil her dress in front of all these ponies. She didn’t have enough presence of mind to realize just how copious the amount of wine and whiskey she’d consumed.

“Now if you will excusssse me,” said Rarity staggering toward the door, “I have some be I need to place!”

“I’ll walk you home,” said Applejack, concerned for her friend.

“That won’t be nessssssary,” said Rarity, “I can make home it quite welllll on my one, I’m not some little foal that needs a foalsitter.”

“I’ll walk you never-the-less.” Said AJ.

“I’ll get home fine self my by!” Said Rarity getting a little upset, “so if the two of you would just get out of my way. You hayseeds!”

“And I think you can’t,” said Applejack.

“How dare you call me a cunt!” said Rarity incensed.

Rarity attempted to slap Applejack, but she aimed for the wrong one and totally missed. She lost all balance and spun to the floor apparently oblivious to what was going on, although she was mumbling incoherently showing that she was not completely out.

AJ rolled her eyes and started to get Rarity off the floor to put across her back and take her home.

“Hey little lady,” said a stallion who’d been eyeing Rarity quite closely. “Why don’t you let me do that for you. That way you don’t hurt your delicate self.”

He was a relative of Bon-Bon’s from out of town and obviously knew nothing about AJ or any of the Apples. By the way he was looking at her comatose friend, Applejack knew Rarity wouldn’t be taken home and she was angered at what he had in mind. She had a reason why she’d do everything in her power to prevent it. It was all she could do not to apple buck his face into next week for even thinking it!

“Over my dead body,” said AJ loudly, other ponies were starting to look at them. “And I mean it literally.”

The stallion had been smiling, but that quickly changed as AJ finished:

“And if’n you’re even thinkin' of tryin’ go right ahead. But only one of us ‘ll be alive afterwards. And if’n it ain’t me, Rarity and I have a room full of friends here that‘ll finish the job.”

The stallion had never seen such hate in a pony’s eyes. If looks could kill, he’d be screaming in the flames of Tartarus right now.

“Hey,” he said, “lighten up. If you don’t want help, just say so.”

“And if’n you’re thinkin’ of followin’ us and tryin’ somethin’ funny. Ask yourself…

Just how badly will it hurt bein’ ground in a cider press.”

The stallion, got the message, and he was a bit unnerved how she knew what he was thinking. He started to walk away. AJ waved Big Mac on over to her.

Big Mac came over and helped put Rarity across her back.

“Big brother,” said AJ, loud enough for the stallion to hear. “if’n you see that there stallion try to follow us, make sure he finds out just how bad of an idea it is to try to mess with an Apple.”

The stallion saw the size of the big brother and decided it best to make a tactical retreat.

“Eeyup,” said Big Mack glowering at the stallion.

The next day Bon-Bon would tell him just how close he’d come to exchanging the return part of his roundtrip ticket home for a one-way ticket to the cemetery.

As the swirl of disjointed reality started to coalesce into semi-rational thought, Rarity discovered that her fore and back legs were straddling the back of somepony, some muscular pony. She felt the muscles rippling beneath the warm skin. The sensation was more than a little arousing. She was starting to feel flush and warm, especially ‘down there’. Such a powerful pony! She envisioned some white stallion with long flowing mane taking her to his castle to do to her what she’d been missing for so long.

By the temperature of the air, she could tell that she was outside. Rarity forced her eyes open. When the world came into focus and the two images merged into one, she noticed her head was near the pony’s ample rump. She looked over to the flanks, there was a three-apple cutie mark. She had been swept away by a powerful pony, and one that really did cared about her wellbeing. She turned her head and looked forward and saw Applejack was doing her best to go in a straight line, but not doing a very good job. Without knowing why, Rarity levitated AJ’s hat to her own head and giggled. It was warm and smelled like Applejack.

Eventually they made it to Carousel Boutique. AJ carried Rarity up to her room and put her on her bed, then AJ turned to leave.

After years of denial, even to herself, Rarity finally reached out. Perhaps the alcohol had broken down the last barrier.

“Wait, don’t leave me, please.” Said Rarity, her head starting to clear from the effects of the alcohol.

Applejack noticed Rarity had a odd look on her face.

“Applejack Darling, I may not have been able to say anything, but I heard the way you defended me. Thank you.” Said the white Unicorn who actually kissed AJ’s cheek.

“Don’t mention it,” said AJ blushing, trying to understand why she liked the kiss so much.

“Applejack, I could feel your muscles as you carried me. How did you get to be so strong?”

Applejack thought it an odd question, it had an answer she’d never shared with anypony outside the family. The look in Rarity’s eyes weren’t that of a nosey busybody or just a pony drunk out of her mind, as AJ had first assumed. She could see that there was honest concern, as if sensing something deeper.

Because of their ‘history’, AJ felt she could and should open up to this friend.

AJ sat on the edge of the bed and looked off out the window.

“When I was a filly, just a little older than Apple Bloom, a travelin’ salespony came to Sweet Apple Acres to sell some kind’a new equipment. Granny Smith, always the big heart, invited him to stay for dinner. He told some funny stories ’bout his travelin’. I was kind’a taken by him. After dinner, he packed up his wagon and was getting’ ready to leave. I was standin’ ’round outside. He saw me and smiled and asked if’n I’d show him ’round the farm. I thought I’d be friendly so I took him for a tour. We were walkin’ among the trees, he was tellin’ some more of his funny stories.

We’d walked a ways, it was also startin’ to get dark. When we were out of sight from the family, and out of earshot as well, he grabbed me and tried kissin’ me. I fought back, but he was too strong.” AJ’s chest was heaving, she was heroically holding back tears and rage.

“He slapped me across the face a couple ‘o times and told me if’n I didn’t quit fightin’ he’d kill me! I was so scared! He forced me to my knees and then got behind me and, and....”

Rarity reached out a hoof and placed it on AJ’s foreleg. AJ started to pull away, but didn’t. Still looking out the window she screamed in rage, fear and shame.

“He raped me!

I was just a little filly and he raped me! When done, he made me suck his ‘thing’, to clean off the blood and my filth, he said. But when I did, he came again! He told me I better not spit out his gift, and if’n I didn’t swallow his ‘stuff’, he’d break my neck. When I did, he laughed as I gagged.” Said Applejack, looking sick at remembering the humiliation.

“Then he made me thank him for makin’ a ‘mare’ out of me. I had no choice, and I was so sick at doin’ this. He laughed and left me there in the orchard as I was cryin’ and throwin’ up.

By the time I was able to go back to the house, he was gone. I actually thought of throwing myself down the well, I was that ashamed and hurt.

It took Granny Smith an hour to calm me down enough to tell her what happened. She sent Big Mac to look for him but he was long gone.”

Rarity pulled AJ to her. The sobs came hard. Rarity now understood why Applejack acted the way she had, defending her back at the reception. She knew right then, the threat Applejack had made against the stallion was no empty bluff. Applejack would’ve killed to defend Rarity or die trying.

Nopony had ever came to her defense so gallantly, Applejack was now Rarity’s hero.

“I swore at that time I’d never be weak again. Nopony would ever hurt me again, nor would I ever let anypony I knew be hurt.”

AJ cried a bit more, Rarity moved her hoof to Applejack’s. Applejack looked at Rarity’s hoof then into Rarity’s eyes. There were tears in the white Unicorn eyes. Rarity was half drunk and disheveled, but AJ had never seen her friend so beautiful as when she was truly feeling her pain.

“I didn’t blame stallions. As we say on the farm, one bad apple don’t spoil the whole bunch. But anytime after, any colt who tried to go out with me, or even get close to me, all I could think of was that monster.”

The tears were still coming.

Rarity reached out to Applejack, turned Applejack’s face to hers. Rarity saw a friend she’d been at odds with so many times. A pony who may’ve been the complete opposite of herself. But she saw in Applejack and in her actions, strength, heart and honor greater than any prince.

Rarity didn’t know who initiated the kiss. Perhaps both ponies finally reached out at the same time.

After a few minutes Applejack pulled away.

“Rarity, what are we doin’?”

“Do I have to explain it to you Darling?” She said in her ‘proper’ voice.

“No, but is it right?”

Rarity gave Applejack another kiss.

“Did that feel wrong to you Darling?”

AJ saw Rarity’s point, giving in, she resumed the passionate kissing. To Applejack, the feeling of holding Rarity, their tongues exploring the other’s, and feeling that Rarity was giving every bit back was more than Applejack had ever expected to feel.

After a while, Rarity broke the kiss.

Rarity’s magic untied the ribbon in Applejack's mane so it’d flow free. Rarity started to run her hoof through the golden tresses which flowed from AJ's head and neck. For a pony who’d never gone to the salon, her mane was so soft and silky.

Applejack was enjoying Rarity’s touch and attention.

After a while, Rarity spoke up.

“Applejack,” said Rarity still stroking Applejack’s mane and in an uncharacteristically timid voice, almost like Fluttershy, “I want to tell you something, and now’s probably the best time.”

AJ looked intently.

“Do you know the reason I’m always on you about your manners and the way you dress?”

“I thought it was just ’cause I’m a different kind’a pony and it bothered you.”

“No Darling, that’s not the reason.” She said starting to blush. “I’ve been drawn to you for some time. Your manners and the way you dress have always somehow excited me. Maybe my arguing and fighting was my way NOT to deal with other feelings.”

“What other feelin’s?”

Rarity looked down in embarrassment.

“I think I love you, I’ve been too scared to tell you. I always feared if you found out, you’d have nothing to do with me. Fighting with you is better than loosing you forever.”

A tear rolled down Rarity’s face.

Applejack looked neither shocked nor confused.

“Rarity, you now know my history, more than I’ve ever told any of our friends. So you know why I was never lookin’ for any relationship. But I’ve always been attracted to you because you’re the perfect lady. Everythin’ I could never be. I’d see how everypony looked at you. How it looked like you could have any stallion you wanted. But I never felt I was ever pony enough for you. Plus I didn’t know how you’d take it, a mare wantin’ to be with you, ’specially me. I think I fought with you for the same reasons you fought with me.”

Rarity looked into AJ’s eyes, hope played in Rarity’s heart.

“Rarity,” AJ paused, not sure how to continue. “I love you. I think somehow I always have.”

There was a long silence, intense blue eyes locked in equally intense green eyes. Rarity then lay back slowly, and whispered:

“Remove my dress Darling, undress me.”

“Sorry Rarity,” said AJ with a sly smile, “Earth Ponies have trouble with buttons.”

Rarity smiled.

“I made this dress, I could make a dozen of them in an evening.”

AJ looked confused.

“Make me yours Applejack.

Take me, it’s not like when you were little, I want you to!

Rip the dress off me and take me!”

AJ smiled, dresses were always a bother to her anyway. And Rarity was so particular with her work.

She reached down and took the dress by her teeth. Then with a mighty pull, buttons flew, fabric ripped.

Rarity screamed in passion and delight. She launched herself at AJ and kissed her so hard it felt like she was trying to suck AJ’s life force into her to make her even closer. The feeling was more than AJ ever felt or even thought she could feel. AJ wasn’t experienced at kissing, but she prided herself as a fast learner. And it didn’t appear Rarity was finding much fault with her performance.

AJ couldn’t think of anything else but ‘taking her’.

But of the actual act, she was unsure. Having only one bad experience at sex to go off of, she hesitated.

“What’s wrong Darling?”

“I... I don’t know what to do.” AJ stammered embarrassed.

“Well I’m sure you know what everything is for.” Giggled the white pony.

“Yes, but since that time, the only thin’ I’ve used it for was takin’ care of business.”

“Oh Darling, I think the inside you would know what to do given the right circumstance.” Rarity said scooting up higher in the bed to give AJ room to move. She spread her hind legs and reached her hoof down and rubbed lightly on her marehood.

“Come down here and see if anything comes to mind. Don’t worry, I’ll not let you fail, I’ll teach you. But let’s see what you can figure out on your own. Trial and error is half the fun.”

AJ felt strange but she climbed all the way on the bed and had her face right at Rarity’s marehood. She’d never dreamed of being in this position, even if it had been her secret wish to be with this pony.

“What do you think?” she asked. “Don’t be afraid to look, to touch, to taste, to explore.”

“With that AJ looked closer. Rarity’s hoof was holding it slightly open. Against her white coat, the pink really stood out. In this context, it was beautiful, feelings she’d had to bury because of past hurts were now fighting to come to the surface. Applejack moved so close that she was only inches away, she could smell it. Not an entirely unpleasant odor. She also noticed it was wet and appeared to be getting wetter. Remembering that the object of sex with a colt was to put his ‘thing’ in there, but she didn’t have a ‘thing’. What could she do?

Rarity sensed the confusion.

“Use your tongue Darling. Taste my desire for you.”

Rarity totally relaxed the marehood hiding muscles and AJ put her tongue into it. AJ started to lick around the outside and in. Rarity was starting to grind her hips. Then AJ came upon the little nub near the opening, as she licked it, Rarity started making a moaning sound. AJ also noticed that she herself was starting to enjoy this. AJ slid her hooves under Rarity’s flanks, allowing her more comfort in accessing Rarity.

She felt herself getting wet down there also.

Rarity reached out and held AJ’s head firmly, not so tight that she couldn’t pull away if she wanted. Rarity was guiding her in the right place to be. Rarity’s hips pumped even harder. It was all AJ could do to stay on task.

“Don’t stop,” said Rarity through gritted teeth.

As it turned out, Rarity was a screamer. And when the orgasm hit, AJ wasn’t sure if she’d given Rarity what she’d wanted or had just killed her. Especially when she went stiff, her hips arched up high, then collapsed to the bed. Rarity lay there panting for a few moments.

“Come here you! Kiss me and let me taste your success,” said Rarity.

They kissed long. Then Rarity broke the kiss and smiled.

“Now Darling, let me show you how it’s done!”

Rarity instructed AJ to turn on her back and slid down between AJ’s hind legs. Applejack, almost reluctantly relaxed the marehood muscles. At first Rarity was just kissing the outside, then working up one thigh and back down, then the other. Each time stopping at AJ’s opening long enough to tease some more. Rarity wasn’t at all surprised at how wet AJ was becoming.

Then Rarity worked her way up to AJ’s nipples. AJ hadn’t had to pay any attention to these for some time. Now with the pleasure she was feeling, she wondered what else she may’ve missed.

Rarity was surprised to see how large AJ’s breasts and nipples were.

‘If I didn’t know better,’ thought Rarity, ‘I’d swear Applejack has had a foal before’. Rarity was amazed at how arousing these were to herself.

Rarity worked back down to show AJ what she had missed.

Finally Rarity spread AJ’s marehood with her magic.

AJ froze, her whole body went stiff, and her eyes went wide. The muscles almost slammed the marehood shut despite the magic. Rarity could feel her lover tremble in fear. Rarity had never known Applejack to be so terrified.

The feel of the kissing Rarity was doing was so much more than Applejack ever expected to feel. However, every time Rarity stopped at her marehood, there was a sudden trepidation. It felt wonderful, but there was an alarm in the back of her mind that went off, sending something through her mind. Each time she had to tell herself:

‘It’s Rarity, not him. She’s not forcin’ me, I want this.’

But then Rarity stopped at her marehood. Applejack felt Rarity’s magic spread her open. The monster’s face appeared in her mind, she was now just a little filly. Fear, shame and panic hit.

Applejack was about to jump up and run away; but a voice, like that of an angel was heard and all thoughts of that time disappeared:

“Relax Darling, it’s me My Love. I’ll never hurt you.” Rarity said calmly.

Rarity felt AJ slowly relax, even the muscles of her marehood.

“Good girl.”

Then Rarity stuck her tongue all the way in, up to her chin. It was a strange feeling, not like that time before, this warm, soft, exciting. Rarity worked in and out. AJ didn’t understand why her own hips were starting to move on their own. Then she shifted to that little bump (she later was to learn it was called a clitoris). It didn’t take long before AJ realized why Rarity had reacted the way she did. Everything went gray, then white. Then it was stars! She heard some pony yelling, she realized it was herself. All her strength left her, she went limp. A beautiful white pony slid up her belly, and planted kisses the like she’d never know before.

“Wow, you really know how to please a mare.”

“Actually Darling, this was my first time with a mare. I only did to you, what I like done to myself.”

The lessons continued through the night.

AJ’s thoughts returned to the present ….

“You know, speakin’ of that slumber party,” said AJ laying there, “I’ve a confession. ’member when we quit actin’ the fool and finally settled down and got to sleep? When you woke up and I’d ‘accidentally’ cuddled up to you and had my leg ’round you, holdin’ you? I’d actually woke up ’bout an hour earlier, and thought I’d take a chance and hold you. The memory of that hour I carried with me until the night of the reception.”

“I too have a confession about that night Darling,” replied Rarity. “When you cuddled up to me and put your leg around me, it woke me up. But it felt so nice I just let you. You were so warm, and I felt so protected. It was only when Twilight started stirring, did I act like I was waking up. I didn’t want to embarrass you in front of Twilight. But I remembered it was so disappointing when you let go of me.”

Rarity looked over at AJ who was laying by her, eyes closed, breathing softly.

AJ was as strong and caring as she could ever ask for in any pony, noble, loving and honest to a fault. But the soft light on her face made her inner beauty glow. No makeup, no hours of primping, just a beautiful mare in the bloom of youth. My ‘Prince of the Apples’ thought Rarity.

No!

That’s not fair or right, they’d taken steps to come to terms with wanting to be with another mare. Not mares in general, but each other.

‘My ‘Princess of the Apples’.’

“I love you, my Princess of the Apples.” Breathed Rarity.

“I love you too, my Princess of the Dresses.” Replied AJ smiling.

They turned to face the other, each planning to make love again to the pony so important to themselves but then their eyes went wide.

“Oh no! The princesses!” They exclaimed together.

Rarity and AJ had a rushed shower and got ready to meet with the princesses and go with Twilight and her little family to visit the Sparkles and in record time. They were now rushing in as Twilight and company were admitted into the throne room. Twilight was announcing, formally, her family.

“Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, may I present to you my daughters to be. This is Amethyst Star, and this is Dinky Star. My fiancée, Muffins Star you know.”

“Children, please come up here.” Said Celestia regally.

Twilight had instructed the kids the very beginning of this visit would be very formal. They were instructed how to address the princesses and how to bow before them out of respect. They ascended the dais and stopped two steps before the top. Dinky was so proud that she did the bow just the way mom had shown her.

“My Darlings, rise,” said the princess. “please come up here.”

They looked back at Twilight who nodded her head.

Both princesses met them. Both Celestia and Luna kissed them each on the forehead.

“Children, I can see you’ve been instructed well. Now don’t worry about formality. Twilight is my student and my friend. Both Luna and I are in her debt many times over.”

“As Twilight’s children, you’ll have the all blessings of the Crown forever.” Said Luna, “you may not understand it now, but you will one day. You’ll learn there’re advantages to being a ‘Friend of the Crown’.”

“For now, form has been met and we welcome you before us always.” Continued Celestia. “We’ll talk in the days to come. Until then, welcome.”

The two princesses returned to their thrones. The children bowed again and descended.

The little family left with Rarity and AJ joining them. AJ stopped and turned to address the princesses.

“Your Highnesses, may I speak to you a moment, alone?”

Celestia nodded.

“I’ll be right with you.” Said AJ to the group.

Rarity shot a quizzical look.

“Its fine, Sugar Cube, I’ll be right there.”

They walked to the door. The guards opened them and they passed through. From behind them they heard.

“Your Highnesses, how proper or improper would it be if’n...”

The doors closed and that was all they heard.

They’d went through the halls and were approaching the outer doors when they heard a pony galloping up. They all stopped and saw it was AJ and she was smiling a Pinkie Pie size smile.

“What was that about, my Darling?” asked Rarity.

The only reply was a deep kiss.

“I don’t think I’ll ever get used to seeing that,” chuckled Twilight.

“How do you think we feel about you Darling?” Replied Rarity seeing the only reply to come out of AJ’s mouth was Applejack’s tongue, and down her own throat.

When they were outside, there was Luna’s cart and guards waiting for them.

“Our mistress commands us to take you to the home of Lady Twilight’s parents.”

They climbed onboard.

“We’re sorry, little one,” said the guard looking at Dinky, “with so many ponies, we’ll not be able to fly, this time.”

Twilight’s parents didn’t live far, so the trip was quick. However, it was enough time for Rarity to ask a question.

“What did the guard mean by ‘Lady Twilight’? Is there something else you’ve not told us?”

Twilight looked embarrassed as every pony looked at her.

“The title is a part of the whole Celestia’s Apprentice position. I’ve never been comfortable with it. But these guards are required to follow all protocol.”

Author's Note

1 Twilight Sparkle Vs. Bridle-Zilla by Tumbleweed.

CHAPTER SIX: Meet The Sparkles

The cart got to Twilight’s family home in no time at all. It was a modest home but big enough to have raised two foals with room to spare.

There in the door were two ponies. A stallion of blue with indigo mane and tail. And a mare of blue-gray/lavender with purple and white mane and tail who was a spitting image of Twilight except for the color, both were smiling.

“Twi-Twi” said the stallion, Twilight cringed, “so good to see you, you and your friends get in here.”

With that they turned and lead the way in.

“Twi-Twi?” asked Muffins in a low voice.

“Don’t ask.”

A voice behind, one of Luna’s guards, called out.

“We’re leaving now Lady Twi-Twi, we’ll return at the appointed time.”

They quickly shot up into the sky. Twilight just facehoofed while the others laughed.

As they entered they noticed Shining Armor and Cadence were there waiting as well. Twilight started the introductions.

“Mom, Dad, this is my fiancée Muffins Star, Muffins this is my mom Twilight Velvet and dad, Night Light.”

“I see your father Sweetheart,” said Muffins with a grin, “but where’s your mother? I only see your younger sister.”

“Twilight!” Said Night Light in an unexpected stern voice, “you can NOT marry this pony!”

Twilight was in shock, she secretly feared that her parents weren’t as open-minded as she’d hoped. She feared rejection, scorn, and loss of the love of her family. But her father chuckled and said:

“She’s obviously a pony that’s much too good for you.”

“I’ve tried to tell her but she won’t listen,” said Muffins.

Twilight gave one of those faces when she’s put off her schedule.

“Continuing on, these are her, or I should say now, OUR children.

“This is Amethyst Star, we call her Sparkler.”

“A pleasure, I’m sure,” said Sparkler.

“So polite!” Said Twilight Velvet.

“And this is Dinky Star, we call her Cookie.”

“I can see why,” said Twilight Velvet, lifting Cookie with her magic, causing Cookie to giggle. Twilight Velvet hugged her tight.

“I could just eat her up!”

Twilight’s father tussled Cookie’s mane.

“Told you so,” said Twilight to Muffins.

“And Honey, you remember my brother, from when he gave us all a heart attack,” said Twilight, motioned to Shining, “and this is his wife Princess Cadence.”

“Cadence please!” said Cadence, “Twilight, if you call me princess again, I’ll shove my tiara up your muzzle.”

“I’d love to see that,” said Muffins, receiving a hug from Cadence.

Dinky was in awe. After being in front of Celestia and Luna, here was another princess.

“Are you a real princess?” she asked.

Cadence bent down to look the filly in the eye.

“Yes Sweetheart, I am. But I think I’d like it better if you’d call me Aunt Cadence.” Then looking at Sparkler, “I hope you both will. I used to be Twilight’s foal sitter when she was Cookie’s age, I love her so much. Plus my husband and I owe our happiness to her.”

“I’d like that. A real extended family is something we three have dreamed of.”

The older ponies smiled, a tear played at Twilight Velvet’s eyes.

Rarity cleared her throat behind them all.

“Sorry,” said Twilight, “you remember two of my very best friends, Rarity and her marefriend Applejack.”

“So glad to see you again.” Said Rarity.

“Likewise” said AJ.

Rarity turned to AJ.

“Applejack Honey, please remove your hat in polite company.”

“Awe! Quit your fussin’.” Replied AJ.

“Darling, were you raised in a barn?”

“As a matter of fact, I was. You know that.”

“That I do. However, would you like to go back to sleeping in one?”

Twilight never saw her friend remove her hat so quickly. All laughed. Twilight then noticed something.

“AJ, are you wearing...

Makeup?”

AJ blushed.

“It’s just a little mascara and blush, Rarity said I needed to make a good impression.”

“And she looks delicious,” said Rarity giving AJ a little kiss on the cheek.

“Maybe I should tell Twilight what you had to do for me to let you put the makeup on me.” Applejack said with a sly grin.

“Applejack! Not in front of the children!”

More laughs all around except Dinky of course.

After a great meal, they sat around talking. Mostly Night Light telling embarrassing stories about Twilight and Shining Armor. The two siblings were in a constant state of facehoofing. Cadence had taken Dinky in another room and was entertaining the little filly. They could hear them in the next room;

‘Sunshine sunshine, ladybugs awake!

Clap your hooves and do a little shake!’

Peals of laughter rang constantly. Cadence so loved children.

The talk got around to the wedding, who the Brides Maids were. Cadence had walked back into the room at that time.

“That reminds me.” Said Twilight. “Cadence, would you do me the honor of being my Best Mare?”

“I’d love to Twilight. But don’t you have other closer friends?”

“Yes I do, but after the Grand Galloping Gala Ticket Fiasco, I don’t want to pick one over the others. They all agreed to be Bride’s Maids.”

“I’ve a question to ask also,” said Muffins, then turning to her daughter, “Sparkler, my beautiful daughter, you’ve stuck by me for so long and I’ve leaned on your strength so many times, perhaps more than you may ever know. Would you honor me by being my Best Mare?”

“Yes mother,” Said Sparkler tears welled up in her eyes, “It’d make me so happy.”

Then looking at Dinky.

“And you Cookie, would you like to be a Flower Filly? We’re going to ask your friends to do it as well.”

“Yes mommy, I think that’d be fun!”

“Then there’s only one more item.” Said Twilight, “would you give me away Daddy?”

“I’d be so honored.” He replied. “Has Muffins asked her family yet?”

Muffins looked down.

“I’m an orphan,” she said. “My brother and I were left at the Canterlot Children’s Home when we were very young. We were discovered together, we were never sure if he was really my brother but that didn’t matter. Time-Turner and I always stuck together. For whatever reason, neither of us were adopted, as is the case of many foals.

We excelled at school and so we helped the younger foals with their schooling until we were old enough to leave. I got a job at the Canterlot Institute of Science and he went on to higher education. But he’s always been there for me, so I’m asking him.”

Night Light looked at Muffins.

“Sweetheart, you have a family now. You, your children, and even your brother are welcome here. And if you ever call us other that mom and dad, we’ll be very disappointed.”

Twilight Velvet nodded her head in agreement.

“I think I’d like my new daughter to help me clean up in the kitchen.” Said Twilight Velvet.

“I’d love to,” answered Muffins.

“I can help too,” said Twilight.

“No, you have guests here. You need to attend to them. But if Cadence would like to help that’d be nice, you too Sparkler.”

“I’d be happy to.” Said Cadence, Dinky followed as well.

“Me as well,” said Sparkler.

The rest of the evening went well. There was a lot of laughing coming from the kitchen. But there was plenty in the living room. At last it was time to leave. Dinky didn’t want to leave her new grandparents, but it was explained that they’d always be her grandparents now and she’d be back a lot.

Outside, Luna’s cart was waiting. Dinky was asleep before they reached the castle. Twilight and family went to their suite and Rarity and AJ to theirs.

Rarity was surprised to find Princess Luna waiting for them.

“Rarity, I understand you’ve finished my gown. May I try it on?”

“Certainly, Your Highness.” Said Rarity, “but isn’t it a little late for this?”

“Princess of the Night, remember?”

“Sorry, of course.”

Princess Luna was a beautiful mare as was Celestia. Rarity had a hidden fear the gowns she’d made might detract from the fact.

“It’s lovely,” said Luna, “We’re pleased. Have you made the Brides’ Dresses?”

“Yes Highness, they’re over here. The brides requested matching gowns as not to detract from the other.”

“A wise choice,” replied the princess. What of the Bride’s Maids?”

“I’ve not started them as of yet, Highness”

“My sister had a suggestion. She asked for your convenience and for her pleasure, if you can make the Bride’s Maids dresses similar to the Brides. With all the mares present in the wedding party, she said it’d add, symmetry.”

“Of course, Your Highness.” Said Rarity, “it’d be my pleasure.”

Rarity was a little perplexed but a suggestion from the Crown was as good as an order. AJ was just smirking.

Twilight and family stayed a few more days. They visited with the princesses, and Twilight’s family especially at meal time. But the time came for them to go back to Ponyville and take care of their duties. It was just over two months until the wedding. Twilight and the rest of the wedding party did have to make several trips back to Canterlot for fitting with Rarity or for business with the princesses.

CHAPTER SEVEN: Getting Ready

Nightmare Night came, and to Cookie’s delight, Princess Luna came in the guise of Nightmare Moon, the princess changed Cookie’s appearance to look like a little Nightmare Moon, she called her Nightmare Star and made Dinky her assistant for the night. Her friends were scared out of their wits and jealous that Dinky got to have so much fun with Princess Luna.

All of Ponyville was abuzz with activity. Most of the town was invited to the wedding. Even the ones who still harbored doubts about two mares getting married were honored to receive a gold invitation which read:

Their Grand Royal Highnesses send greetings and request your presence

at the state wedding of:

Muffins Star

Lady Twilight Sparkle

At Canterlot Castle on this Hearth Warming Eve at 10:00 p.m.

Canterlot Standard Time.

Due to the lateness of the service, reception will be the following day at

5:00 p.m. in the Canterlot Ball Room.

Please RSVP to Canterlot Castle by December 12th.

Princess Celestia Rex

Princess Luna Rex

It was now a week before the wedding, and all were excited. The entire wedding party had moved to Canterlot to get ready. Twilight and Muffins were in and out everywhere. Twilight’s parents were watching Dinky a lot. Many times she’d ask to stay overnight. Twilight’s prophecy of Dinky becoming spoiled was coming true, but so far, no behavior issues. Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo, were invited to stay with Dinky several times. To their great credit, Night Light and Twilight Velvet handled the little group with grace and the occasional assistance of Cadence.

Rarity had a constant stream of ponies coming in for last minute fittings. Rarity had to admit that the matching gowns and the similar Brides Maids dresses did make it easier to handle patterns and fabrics. She’d have needed twice the time if each had been different. Even so, she also realized that she could never had kept up this pace without Applejack there supporting her.

If she wasn’t dear to her before, she was now.

The only odd thing which happened was Pinkie Pie and her friend, Octavia, had come in to ask a favor. Rarity had been surprised just how unalike the two were, one bubbly and random the other prim and proper. How she was a friend of Muffins and Pinkie’s, Rarity couldn’t fathom.

“Rarity, Applejack,” said Pinkie, “we have a favor to ask of you.”

“What is it Pinkie Darling?” Replied Rarity.

“Octavia and I’ve not seen a lot of each other for the last couple years. Would you mind if Applejack traded sides with Octavia so we can stand together. We asked Muffins and Twilight if it’d be okay, they said yes, but it was up to you.”

“It would mean a lot to us,” said Octavia.

Rarity looked at Applejack who gave a little nod as if to say it’s okay. They had plenty of time to be together.

“Yes, Darlings, we’d be happy to.”

Pinkie hugged AJ and Rarity. Octavia thanked them and the two departed.

“It’s okay, Sugar Cube.” Said AJ “I’m sure we’ll get to be close together that night!”

Rarity blushed. AJ kissed her. Rarity only halfheartedly pushed her away.

“I’ve work to do.” Smiled Rarity.

AJ reached under Rarity’s tail.

“I think I’ve some work to do as well.”

“You’re incorrigible! If I’d known then what I know now...”

“You would’ve kissed me at Twilight’s slumber party,” said AJ.

Rarity turned to go to work, but she was swishing her tail the way that made AJ weak.

AJ was right.

“Later Darling. Oh yes, later.” Replied Rarity over her shoulder.

CHAPTER EIGHT: The Wedding and Pinkie Roulette

The throne room was packed. All the wedding party were dressed and ready. All were beautiful. Even Applejack was wearing a little more makeup than she normally let Rarity put on her, she also swore to Rarity that she’d leave her hat back in the room, on pain of sleeping alone for life.

They were lined up in twos. There were the Best Mares, Sparkler and Cadence. Then came Bride’s Maids, Applejack with Rarity, Carrot Top with Octavia, Vinyl Scratch with Pinkie Pie, Bon-Bon with Rainbow Dash and Lyra with Fluttershy. And ready to proceed the Brides, were the Flower Fillies, Dinky with Scootaloo and Apple Bloom with Sweetie Belle.

At the back stood Dr. Hooves and Night Light. The music started and the doors opened all looked back to see. Rarity’s first sight of the regal princesses wearing, in public, dresses she’d made, almost made her swoon. It was one of her fondest dreams come true.

As Lyra and Fluttershy, the last of the Bride’s Maids, made their way to their position, the music paused. Then a louder chord sounded, all stood. From the back, the Flower Fillies skipped up the aisle, spreading rose peddles. The two Brides walked from out of sight to their escorts. They then processed forward with the escorts in the middle and the brides on the outside. Never had Canterlot Castle hosted two such beautiful brides. Nopony even noted Muffins eyes, only how lovely she and Twilight looked. They were escorted to the top of the dais. Each escort kissed the bride they were leading and handed their hoof to the other bride. The music stopped.

“Dearly Beloved Subjects, I’ve never had the honor to join two such cherished brides before.

The Lady Twilight Sparkle, whom I’ve taught since she was a filly has been as dear to me as a daughter. I trust her knowledge, I trust her wisdom, and I trust her council. When she let me know she’d found a pony to love, my sister and I rejoiced!

Then I found out the pony was a pony I’d known. A pony who’d faced the horror of watching the ultimate loss of a loved one. A pony who faced a condition others would scorn. A pony who took it all and yet forged ahead with grace and honor.

The perfect match for my apprentice.”

“So it’s my pleasure to ask you.”

Looking at Muffins;

“Muffins Star, do you take Twilight Sparkle to be your wedded wife? To have and to hold, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, to love and to cherish, until death do you part?”

“I do, Your Majesty.” Said Muffins, a tear streaming down her cheek.

Then turning to Twilight;

“Twilight Sparkle, my beloved student, do you take Muffins Star to be your wedded wife? To have and to hold, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, to love and to cherish, until death do you part?”

“I do, Your Highness, more than anything,” said Twilight.

“Then if none object,” said Celestia.

“One moment my sister!” Said Princess Luna stepping forward. “There’s a small matter to take care of first.”

There were gasps and mumbling from the crowd.

Princess Luna called out in her Traditional Royal Canterlot Voice;

“HONDO FLANKS, BIG MACKINTOSH APPLE. DO YOUR DUTY!”

Rarity’s father and AJ’s brother came forward, took AJ and Rarity by the hoof and removed them from the Bride’s Maids line. Sparkler and Cadence took their place then Muffins and Twilight moved to the Best Mare position. Rarity and AJ were led to the top of the dais. Big Mac and Hondo Flanks kissed the cheek of who they were escorting. Then handed their hoof to the other.

Rarity was flabbergasted.

Luna spoke in a more subdued voice;

“We were approached by the pony Applejack who requested to share the joy of this day with a pony she loves dearly. One she’d do anything to make her dreams come true. So with permission from Lady Twilight Sparkle and Muffins Star, and the consent of their own families, I’ve the honor to ask;

Rarity, do you take Applejack Apple to be your wedded wife? To have and to hold, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, to love and to cherish, until death do you part?”

Rarity looked at the ponies around her and into AJ’s eyes. It was apparent everypony was in on it. And because her parents were there for her, it was okay with them.

This had to be the most romantic thing ever done for her, and it was Applejack who did it.

“Answer her for pony sake!” said Sweetie Belle from behind.

“I do,” she said weakly.

Luna smiled as AJ winked at her. Then she continued;

“Applejack Apple, do you take Rarity to be your wedded wife? To have and to hold, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, to love and to cherish, until death do you part?”

“I do Your Highness, I truly do.”

Celestia stepped forward again.

“Will the couples come forward?”

Muffins and Twilight joined AJ and Rarity in front of the princesses.

“The rings please.” Said Celestia.

AJ produced a ring like Rarity had only fantasized about, Rarity looked lost but Sweetie Belle gave her an Earth Pony ring. Twilight brought out a ring, Muffins pulled a ring from under her wing. It looked strangely like her mother’s wedding ring. Twilight looked over her shoulder to where her mother was seated. Twilight Velvet nodded her head. Celestia’s golden and Luna’s deep blue magic aura took the rings and placed them on the proper bride.

“In the name of the Crown” said Celestia and Luna together. “And Our Regal Selves. We declare you wed!”

“What We join together,” said Celestia,

“Let no pony sunder!” said Luna.

“You may now kiss your Bride.”

All the crowd jumped to their hooves, cheering and stomping.

“May I be the first to introduce, Mrs. Twilight and Mrs. Muffins Sparkle and Mrs. Applejack and Mrs. Rarity Apple.” Said Celestia over the din.

“PLEASE JOIN THE COUPLES AT THE RECEPTION TOMORROW AT 5:00 P.M.” announced Luna in her Traditional Royal Canterlot Voice.

Music sounded and the two newly married couples led the wedding party out. They went to a room set aside for the party. Their family and friends gathered there with them.

Rarity and AJ’s family were gathered around the couple as did Twilight and Muffins’ family around them.

“I’m so happy for you Rarity” said Rarity’s mother. “And what a strong hard worker you’ve caught. When Applejack contacted us we thought we’d go crazy not being able to see and congratulate you!”

“The look on your face was worth the wait,” Said Rarity’s father. “Sweetie Belle was the most calm, she likes secrets.”

“I was floored! It wasn’t anything I ever expected. I knew Applejack was up to something but I never expected something so grand!” She said smiling at AJ.

“And the ring! where did you get such a fabulous ring? I’ve only dreamed of such a ring,” exclaimed Rarity.

“What did you think Sugar Cube,” said AJ with a smirk, “we give apples away? Ponies eat a lot of apples, and who do you think sales them?”

“Are you saying that you’re… Rich?”

“I am now that your my wife.”

Rarity hugged and kissed AJ discovering all her dreams were coming true with a pony she’d only considered a country bumpkin and rube only a little over a year or so ago.

Rarity’s father turned to AJ;

“Welcome to the family, Applejack. Take care of our little girl.”

“I think she’s the one goin’ to be takin’ care of me,” laughed Applejack.

“AJ?” said Big Mac.

“Thank you big brother!” said Applejack, “I’m so happy you could do it for me. I love you so much.”

“We love you too AJ,” said Big Mac. “Sorry Granny Smith couldn’t make it. Just too far to travel, and to tell the truth I think the whole mare marrin’ mare business would’ve confused her. She’ll get use to it.”

“Are you ’kay now with Twilight marrin’ Muffins?”

“He was kind of upset at first,” said Apple Bloom, “But when Miss Cheerilee heard of it, she came by to try to cheer him up. And has been by a lot, I think they’re now ‘Very Special Someponies.’

“Eeyup!” said Big Mac, all laughed.

“And best of all, Sweetie Belle and I are now sisters!” exclaimed Apple Bloom putting a foreleg around Sweetie Belle.

“I guess you are,” said Rarity kissing each of the fillies’ on the head. “Now go find Dinky and Scootaloo and have some snacks.”

Off the two ran to find their friends.

Over where Muffins and Twilight were, Twilight’s parents were fussing over the couple. Both Night Light and Twilight Velvet were constantly hugging the mares.

“Dad,” exclaimed Twilight, “we know you’re happy for us, but if you keep squeezing us, we won’t be able to breathe.”

“We’re just so happy for the two of you. Your joy brings us joy!” Said Night Light. “It was always our hope that you’d find the perfect stallion.”

Muffins and Twilight both snapped their heads toward Twilight’s father.

“Daddy,” said Twilight.

“No,” he replied, “that’s what we hoped for. But bringing this wonderful mare into the family was more than we could’ve ever dreamed of.”

“Your father is right, Twilight. I don’t think you would’ve been happy in a normal relationship. I’m not saying you couldn’t have had a special relationship with a colt. But it takes a special pony to break through barriers of prejudice and the mundane to show they are truly the one.”

Twilight’s friends were starting to gather around. AJ and Rarity came over and joined them.

“Rainbow, Pinkie, Fluttershy, you’ve all been kind of quiet. It’s not like you, well maybe Fluttershy. What gives? Muffins friends have been kind of off as well.”

“Twilight it’s like this,” said Rainbow, acting the spokespony, “Pinkie, Vinyl Scratch, and myself are very outspoken ponies. We decided that we’d tone it down, let you shine for tonight!"

“And you can believe how hard that’s for Vinyl, Rainbow and Pinkie!” said Octavia.

All laughed.

“We wanted to keep it low key, being that it’s late and you’re going to need your strength tonight!” said Vinyl, more laughter. “The party is tomorrow at five. That’s probably the most we’ll be able to keep Pinkie and Rainbow Dash contained.”

“Twilight,” said Fluttershy, “Where’s Spike?”

“He’s still a baby, and he tried to stay up, but he just couldn’t. Truthfully I think he would’ve taken the Rarity/AJ part hard.”

“Poor Spiky-Wiky. We’ll have to make it up to him.” Said Rarity.

“I promised him free reign at the reception.” Said Twilight. “That lifted his spirits.”

It wasn’t noticed that Cadence or Shining Armor wasn’t present until the doors came open to a royal fanfare.

“All hail the Princesses of Equestria!” It was Shining Armor in his best uniform.

In proceeded Princess Celestia, her sister Princess Luna and following was their niece Princess Cadence. They walked through the gathering, all backed away and bowed. Then stopping before the two couples, Celestia spoke.

“It is a royal custom for the Princesses of Equestria to bless special weddings. The Royal Apprentice and her companions certainly qualify. The Lady Twilight and Muffins Sparkle, both have rendered service to our August Selves in many ways. As have Applejack and Rarity Apple. Both wielders of the Elements of Harmony.”

Three horns glowed and a gold, dark blue and light blue aura surrounded the four ponies. They rose off the floor slightly. Then Celestia continued.

“So these beloved and trusted ponies, we bless them this night.”

“May their dearest wishes come true tonight!” Said the three princesses together.

The aura faded and the ponies settled to the floor. Then the princesses proceeded back out.

“What was that?” asked Muffins.

“I’ve only read of this. It hasn’t been done for a long time.” Said Twilight, “it’s suppose to be very significant.”

Shining and Cadence returned to the room and talked a while with everypony. Soon, Shining spoke up.

“Princess Celestia wanted me to remind everypony that the couples need to retire now. Please stay as long as you wish everypony else. Remember that there’ll be a brunch tomorrow for family and friends only,” then with a smile, “when the couples can make it. This is so the family doesn’t have to vie for attention at the reception.”

AJ, Rarity, Muffins and Twilight gave a hurried goodbye and left the room to cheering and applause.

“I totally know what they are going to be doing,” said Pinkie Pie. It was apparent that Pinkie had brought in a flask of whiskey, and had almost finished it.

“Oh great,” said Rainbow Dash, “Pinkie roulette.”

There were questioning eyes from those who didn’t know the pink Earth Pony well. Seeing this Rainbow continued, “regardless of whether you want to or not. Somepony is going to wake up with Pinkie Pie in their bed.

I just hope it isn’t one of the newlyweds.”

Some shocked and amused looks all around. Not to mention a few hopeful ones as well.

CHAPTER NINE: Nights to Remember

“See, I told you back at Bon-Bon and Lyra’s reception, when you got married, I would be at your wedding, you would wear one of my dresses and you wouldn’t be wearing your hat. I was even willing to bet you’d be wearing makeup.” Said Rarity smugly, and helping AJ out of her dress. It involved some magic and a lot of kisses.

“Oh Rarity,” Replied AJ, “I thought you loved me for the way I am. Now that we’re married, are you goin’ to try and change that?”

Rarity nodded, but AJ could tell she wasn’t serious.

They kissed a while. After removing her own gown, they crawled on the bed.

“You’re so sure ‘bout everythin’.”

“I’m sure that I made the right choice of ponies, Mrs. Apple” Said Rarity.

“I think I’ll have to agree with that, Mrs. Apple” Said AJ.

“I’m sure of something else Darling,” said Rarity.

“What’s that, Sugar Cube?”

Rarity looked behind the bed and levitated something.

“I’m sure you’ll never forget this night.”

“Hey! Where’d you get my lasso?”

Rarity only smiled as she levitated AJ’s hat to her own head and approached AJ.

“Ho, Doggies!”

On a higher level of the castle, Muffins and Twilight were getting ready for the night. They’d removed their dresses and put them away neatly, as only Twilight would do.

Muffins was standing outside on a balcony looking at the moon. Twilight had heard of Pegasi taking a wedding night flight, they’d make love among the clouds. Twilight approached her bride.

“Are you disappointed I can’t go fly with you? The hot air balloon proved too difficult to pack.”

“Oh you!” said Muffins, nudging Twilight with her flank, “It sounds silly but you make me fly higher than these wings ever could.”

Muffins put a wing over Twilight. They shared their first kiss alone as a wedded couple.

“Come on My Love,” said Muffins leading Twilight to the magnificent bed, “let’s see if it’s any different now we’re married.”

After a while, the two were laying on their backs. Trying to catch their breath. Muffins then turned to Twilight.

“No, pretty much the same.”

Twilight wasn’t sure how to take that.

“You appeared to be enjoying it.”

“Oh I didn’t say there was anything wrong. I couldn’t think of anything I’d rather do than make love to you.” Muffins kissed Twilight deeply. It still took her breath away. “But it’s still the same.”

“Then what should we do?” said Twilight, almost annoyed.

“Darling, Darling please! I have the solution.”

This caught Twilight’s attention; Muffins golden eyes sparkled reflecting the only light in the room, which were the stars and the moon.

“Please forgive me but I’ve been holding out on you. I was saving it for something very special. And I think tonight qualifies.”

Twilight was intrigued.

“I hope it’ll not bother you but it’s something I learned from Shooting Star. Since you’ve never mentioned it, I only assumed it was because of your self-imposed separation from the other children. So you probably never learned the little things whispered on the playground.” Looking her wife in the eyes, Muffins asked, “do you know of Unicorn Horn Sex?”

Totally baffled, not recalling anything from the books, Twilight shook her head.

“I can’t say I have, I’ve not ever read anything about that.”

“It’s a technique that’s very, very personal. Shooting told me there are Unicorn couples who never do it because of the intense magic it releases.”

Muffins lay Twilight back on the bed and propped her head up with some pillows.

“Do you trust me, My Love?”

“With my life.”

Muffins smiled and moved to Twilight’s head. She softly brushed back the bangs of her forelock, exposing all her horn. Twilight’s mother’s wedding ring glistened where her scalp met the base of her horn.

“You must remember to thank your mother for the generous gift of the ring.

Now remember to be very careful, your horn is the organ of your magic. But it also can be a very dangerous weapon. So no matter how excited you become, no sudden moves. This takes passion as well as takes control.”

“I’ll remember,” said Twilight, becoming excited at the mystery.

“I dare say you will,” laughed Muffins in an odd way.

Muffins leaned forward and started to kiss the horn. At first there wasn’t anything special about it, other than being kissed by a pony that she loved so much. Then Muffins started licking it. Along the length and side to side as far as her tongue could reach. She worked her way from the base to the tip.

Twilight felt something happening. It was same feeling as when she was casting a spell but before the magic was released.

“I can taste it happening,” cooed Muffins.

Twilight felt like something was building in her head. It wasn’t unpleasant, but it was as if a balloon was inflating right behind her eyes. Muffins continued, from the sound of it, Muffins was getting excited as well.

“Now here’s the part where you’ll have to be very careful. You’ll want me to get it all in my mouth.”

Muffins then put her lips around the tip of the horn, and she slid down the length of it. Twilight felt Muffins sliding her lips up and down it, she was getting further down each time. Her tongue was working on it as well. The pressure was building. She was sure her eyes were now as crossed as her wife’s.

Then Muffins slid back down and looked into Twilight’s eyes.

“Now do exactly as I tell you. Be gentle, so you don’t hurt me.”

She rolled on her back and spread her legs, with her hooves, she spread her marehood.

“Your horn is good and wet now, and so am I. Put your horn in me. Stop if you feel resistance.”

Twilight was starting to feel lightheaded from the feeling growing in her head. She crawled to the foot of the bed, looked at her wife. There was desire and fear in her eyes.

Twilight lowered her head, lined up and slowly entered Muffins. There was a gasp. Twilight was sorry that she couldn’t see her lover’s face. She slid forward until the tip touched Muffins’ womb.

“There Darling.” Muffins said, “Now back just a bit. There! Now remember what I told you about control and let me do the work, this time.”

With that, Muffins started sliding back and forth on Twilight’s horn. The feeling was amazing! A Unicorn’s horn is predominately a bony substance with a living core. But Twilight could feel everything as if it were covered with flesh. The sound of Muffins breathing and moaning let her know that Muffins was feeling something also. Muffins grinding became more intense. Twilight fought for control, she so wanted to assist but she knew that if she got carried away, she could injure her new wife, perhaps fatally. She couldn’t contain the feeling in her head much longer.

“Muffins!”

“I know, I know! Just a little longer!”

It was only a few more moments, but it felt like forever. Twilight tried to let her mind think of other things to try and distract her. But her thoughts kept came back to the act they were engaged in.

Then Muffins screamed;

“Now My Love! Oh Twilight! Now!”

Twilight relaxed her control. She felt the rush of power. She couldn’t see, but both her and Muffins were surrounded by Twilight’s purple magic aura. The light poured through the room, but it was most intense around the couple. It was a blinding glow, centered at Muffins abdomen, at the spot where Twilight's horn was buried deep in her lover.

Both mares screamed in ecstasy.

The light faded, the feeling of power continued to pulse, but subsided. Twilight just lay there, not yet willing to pull it out.

“Come up here my Darling.” Said Muffins.

Twilight slid up Muffins’ belly. Both were breathing hard. Twilight’s head felt clearer. Twilight looked deep in Muffins eyes, but she suddenly flinched.

“What is it?” said Twilight concerned.

“Something wet hit my face.”

There was a small glow from Twilight’s horn and the lights came on. There was a wet spot on Muffins’ cheek.

“It doesn’t look like blood,” said Twilight with relief.

“There’s something dripping from your horn.”

Muffins touched her hoof to the tip of the horn, she smelled then tasted. Her eyes went wide.

“Cum!”

“Where’re we going?” asked Twilight unsure of Muffins’ meaning.

“No silly, cum, seamen.”

Twilight was shocked.

“How?”

“I don’t know,” said Muffins, “but I bet I know somepony who will.”

They rolled off the bed, Muffins headed straight toward the door.

“Don’t you want to clean up first?”

“No!” Said Muffins intensely.

Twilight never doubted this pony from the start. She wasn’t going to start now.

They worked their way through the halls and down to the throne room. The doors were closed and two dragon-winged Pegasi were on guard.

“Lady Twilight, you’re out late.” Said the guard.

“We must see the princess.” Said Twilight sternly.

“Of course, my Lady. You only need to command.”

The doors opened and there seated, or more like sprawled out on the throne was the Princess of the Night.

“Twilight Sparkle, Muffins Sparkle! Two of my most beloved subjects. Please come in. Guards, leave us.”

The doors closed and the newlyweds approached the throne. Luna got up and met them.

“Princess Luna,” started Twilight, but the princess held up a hoof.

“You were given leave to address me as familiar back on Nightmare Night two years past, Luna, please. In some matters I stand on ceremony more than my sister does. But in others, I prefer familiarity. I do owe you much.

So what can be so important you’ve to come see me on this night? Have you come to ask advice, to brag or perhaps you seek assistance? I’m open to all,” said Luna smiling.

Twilight told Luna everything. Somehow she felt more comfortable telling this princess the intimate details. Perhaps more than had she’d to tell Celestia.

“Intense ‘horngasm’ eh?” Smiled the princess. Then looking at Muffins, “are you sure that it was seamen?”

“Yes, Luna. I was married to a stallion before. I still remember the look, smell and taste.” Said Muffins blushing.

“So I don’t need to check for myself?” Luna said kidding.

Muffins shook her head, not sure if the princess was pulling her leg.

“Guards.” called the princess. The Guard entered. “Get my sister. Tell her it’s an urgent matter. Now go!”

Seeing the look in the two pony’s eyes she said.

“Don’t worry, it isn’t bad, they just expect it of me and, I do love theatrics!” Luna said with a wink.

Celestia entered the room, she looked as if she was awakened from a sound sleep. She wasn’t wearing any tiara or collar. Only a pajama shirt that said:

‘Hand over the cake and nopony gets hurt!’

Twilight and Muffins bowed, trying not to laugh at Celestia’s garment. It was a very poorly kept ‘secret’ around the castle that Celestia has a weakness for cake.

“Please my children, rise. It’s too late to play court games. It must be important if you’ve interrupted the consummation of your marriage.

“Please, My Sister. Come with me and I’ll explain and spare these any further embarrassment.” Then turning to the guard, “you’re dismissed. Please go check the grounds. Nopony is to be outside these doors for at least an hour. And I’ll know if my instructions weren’t followed.”

Luna took her sister aside and spoke low. Only once did Celestia look back at the two, then returned to her conversation with Luna.

Twilight and Muffins were standing with their sides touching. They both could feel a slight tremor in the other. It mustn’t be a horrible thing, but it was important, for Luna to waken Celestia.

“My children,” said Celestia returning to the two waiting mares. “My sister has informed me of this evenings events. Muffins My Dear, would you allow Luna and I to examine you. It won’t hurt, it won’t be invasive, but to answer the questions, it’s necessary.”

“It’s alright, Honey,” said Twilight, nuzzling her wife. “You can trust the princesses implicitly.”

“I do, My Love, but for some reason I’m becoming concerned.”

“Please don’t child,” said Celestia. “And please come over here between Luna and myself. You can face Twilight if it’ll help. But she must stay where she is.”

Muffins walked to the princesses turned and faced Twilight. The princesses, standing on either side of Muffins, touched their horns to Muffins withers.

The princesses closed their eyes. A combined gold and blue aura covered Muffins. She looked at Twilight frightened.

“I love you,” Twilight mouthed to her wife.

“I love you too,” Muffins mouthed back.

It didn’t take the princesses long. They opened their eyes and looked at each other, Luna nodded her head then told Muffins to go stand with Twilight.

“Please be totally open to me my children, and hold nothing back.”

The couple nodded.

“Twilight,” started Celestia. “what were your thoughts during this sex act?”

Twilight thought and then nervously cleared her throat.

“Well, Your Highness, I’d cleared my mind of the moment, as not to... To... To… Be too hasty. I started wondering if this is how a male feels during sex. Then I thought how great it’d be to be able to give new life as with male and female.”

“Then what happened? Don’t be shy. Know that what you say, stays here an you can count on Luna and I to be as trustworthy as if we were mothers or sisters.”

“The intense feeling hit, the ‘horngasm’ as Luna called it, I felt power flow. It was as if part of myself was leaving through my horn. Not a feeling of loss, I can’t explain it any other way.”

“I see.” Said Celestia.

“And what were you thinking?” asked Luna to Muffins.

“I was thinking of how happy I was to have somepony to love me this deeply. I remembered to when Shooting Star and I shared. But this act was never this intense, never at such a level this deep.” She turned to Twilight, “I’m sorry that my thoughts strayed to him. But I’d thought the only thing he could ever do for me you couldn’t was give me a child.”

She looked down, embarrassed.

“Don’t worry My Love, I don’t think any less of you.” Then Twilight kissed her.

Celestia spoke softly with Luna and turned back to them.

“Did either of you discusses these matters before having sex?”

The answer from both was no.

“Then My Dears, Unicorn Horn Sex is a very powerful act. So powerful some couples never attempt it.” Said Luna.

“This is your answer,” continued Celestia, “your outstanding love for each other was amplified by Twilight Sparkle’s magic, along with the Blessing of the Princesses. It acted on your thoughts.”

Twilight and Muffins looked confused.

“Go back to your ‘celebration’ My Children.” Said Luna smiling. “But Muffins, don’t attempt anything too strenuous for some time. And with your depth perception. I’d advise not to fly if it can be helped.”

“Why’s that?” Muffins asked.

“Because My Dear,” Said Celestia. “you’re now with foal. Your foal, Twilight. We read her heart and mind as well as her body. She’s been a faithful mare, don’t doubt her. But don’t expect this to ever happen again. It’s something I’ve never heard of happening at this level, in over three thousand years.”

Twilight didn’t know if she’d slumped against Muffins or the other way around. Neither was keeping their footing very well.

The princesses embraced the two.

“Now go back to what you were doing.” Said Luna, “or do you need me to come and give some assistance?”

Luna gave her sly wink, which made it hard to know if she was joking or serious. Celestia just rolled her eyes and shook her head because of her sister’s forwardness.

It was hours later and Twilight and Muffins were in bed, just holding each other.

“A foal,” said Twilight, “a foal.” Twilight was rubbing a hoof against Muffins’ abdomen. She knew there’d be nothing she could feel for months to come, but It gave her a feeling of connection.

“When you realized what was dripping from my horn, you were hoping for this, weren’t you. That’s why you didn’t want to clean up.”

“Are you disappointed or does it bother you My Love?”

“No, Elysium no.” Twilight said kissing Muffins. “It’s just, before you, I never had considered any kind of a family.

I thought I was content to live my life, my personal life, alone. Then came a fateful night when the storm blew a wet bedraggled pony to my door.

She said she was there to talk. But she ended up being a thief, she stole my heart.

That’s when the first thoughts of family even entered my heart. I was so happy to hear you had children, because I knew a relationship with you would mean those children would be all I could have.

I guess that was wrong.

Now I have to consider things I’ve never thought of before. And I’m so happy to have to do so. But what about you? You’re the one who will have to carry the…

I mean our foal.”

“Twilight, I’ve always thought that foals were the ultimate expression of love between two ponies. Their love was so great it couldn’t be contained between just two.

I love you so much and I felt like I was cheating you because I couldn’t give you a child. It’s something I considered at first, but I thought it something that’d have to be understood with our relationship. That it wasn’t to be.

Or so I thought.

Understand I thought this way from the first and I in no way have cast you in the role of ‘the male’. And just because you impregnated me, still doesn’t make you so. I love a very intelligent, caring, and beautiful mare.”

“You think I’m beautiful?” Said Twilight, she’d never considered herself as anything but plain.

“Yes I do My Love.” Said Muffins and then giggling. “Rainbow Dash told me all about that ‘Pinkie Pie in your bed’ thing, and how obsessed you became. Luckily for me, everypony said they loved you as a friend, but you were never any of their types. I believe that most ponies remarked something about scrawny flanks.

Well about a week ago, Rainbow said she’d just come from Rarity’s and you had been trying on your wedding dress. She mentioned how lucky I was. Since I’d been feeding you regularly your flanks had filled out quite nicely and if I’d any doubts about you, to let her know and she’d be happy to take you off my hooves!”

The two burst out in laughter.

“I’ll never let Rainbow Dash live that down!” said Twilight, happy to have something on her friend.

CHAPTER TEN: That Was Quick

That next day at 10 o’clock. The family and friends met for brunch. They had received messages from the two couples to meet at that time.

Muffins and Twilight came in brightly beaming. It was as if they’d slept all night. They seemed to be on the edge of giddy. AJ and Rarity came in a little later. They did appear less chipper as if they’d had no sleep at all. Twilight noticed that AJ was favoring a leg.

“What happened to your leg?” asked Twilight.

“Don’t worry ’bout it, it’s just a little rope burn.”

“Rope burn?” Replied several around the table.

Applejack looked embarrassed.

“Applejack has been such a dear and has given in so many times to things my way, I thought I’d do things her way for a change.

So I put on her hat and we had ourselves a little rodeo. I showed her I could ride a bucking bronco, and for how long.” Said Rarity in an uncharacteristically unashamed way. “Applejack didn’t know I knew how to hog-tie.”

“See Pinkie, I said I thought it sounded like Rarity yelling ‘ride em’ cowpony’!” said Rainbow. Then she realized what she’d just given away.

“Pinkie roulette?” asked Bon-Bon laughing.

“Pinkie roulette.” Said Rainbow blushing.

“Well Rainbow does have a pulse!” Said Pinkie. “And she’s quite a hottie.”

“Awe Rainbow Dash,” said Twilight winking at Muffins, trying to sound disappointed. “And here I thought you were starting to like my flanks.”

Rainbow Dash almost choked on her drink.

“Luckily the kids are eating at another table,” said Muffins.

All burst out in laughter, even Rainbow Dash. The family and friends had a scrumptious meal provided by the Castle’s kitchen.

All were done eating and were sipping at some very fine wine, Celestia’s best. There was talk and laughter. The hall was abuzz. The kids had went out to play in the gardens outside.

AJ noticed that Muffins was only having water.

“Don’t you like wine, Sugar Cube? We’re celebratin’!”

Muffins looked at Twilight, Twilight nodded.

“I’ve always been told,” said Muffins in a voice so all could hear, “you shouldn’t consume alcohol when you’re with foal.”

The silence was deafening. All eyes were on Twilight and Muffins.

“And I thought I was the fast one,” said Rainbow Dash.

“Wait!” said Rarity. “how’s that even possible Darling?”

Twilight had to explain what happened last night. As it turned out many knew about Unicorn Horn Sex. Twilight and Rarity’s parents looked sheepish. Pinkie even offered to explain it to a couple of the Earth Ponies. Twilight did spare some details, but did explain what the princesses had said.

“Why haven’t we tried that before Lyra?” asked Bon-Bon punching her wife on the shoulder.

“Celestia said it was the first time in over three thousand years it’s produced a foal,” said Twilight.

“Who said anything about foals?” replied Bon-Bon.

All laughed.

“Well one thing’s for sure,” said AJ, “there’s one magic trick the ‘Great and Powerful Trixie’ ‘ll never top.”

All laughed.

“Family and friends, we’re sure you share in the joy of this news,” said Muffins. “But Twilight and I hope that you’ll keep this news between us gathered.”

“It’s going to be hard enough to explain later.” Said Twilight, “It’ll give us time to think of the best way to do it.”

There was agreement all around. The rest of the brunch proceeded normally. Although the talk would come back to the miracle, for what else could it be described? But Twilight’s mother was already talking about planning a ‘foal shower’.

“Mom!” said Twilight. “For pony sake, we have eleven months to worry about that. Can we get through the wedding festivities first?”

The reception was beautiful, there was much of Ponyville in attendance, and not to mention colleagues of Muffins from her days at the Institute of Science and alumni from Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns. All former associates were as happy for the couple. As well as extended Apple Family members plus fashion and high society contacts of Rarity’s.

There was eating and dancing. The fillies were in Elysium with all the fine food and music, not to mention the presence of the princesses who showed them no end of attention.

The Brides were wearing the outfits Rarity had made them for the Grand Galloping Gala, although Rarity had made a stunning new gown for Muffins. Rarity had said she’d worked so hard on them she wanted to have some good memories with them.

Then came the couple’s first dance. Vinyl Scratch stopped the music and Lyra Heartstrings with her lyre and Octavia with her cello started playing a tune written by Lyra. The couples took the floor and danced as if they were the only ponies in Equestria. Then Hondo Flanks, Big Mac, Night Light and Dr. Hooves came on the floor and cut in for the father-daughter dance. Eight ponies had tears in their eyes. Vinyl announced for the ponies gathered to join in. Ponies were wondering why Pinkie Pie was staying so close to Rainbow Dash. Was there more to it than Pinkie Roulette?

The bouquet toss was organized chaos. Four bouquets flew through the air, and many ponies dove for them. But not Rainbow Dash, she’d learned her lesson at Bon-Bon and Lyra’s reception. However Pinkie Pie did catch one and walked close to Rainbow Dash, giving her those big blue eyes. Rainbow smiled an uncertain smile.

The two couples were sad to leave Canterlot. It had been an event to remember. Maybe more than Shining and Cadences’ wedding, and no Changelings (that they knew of).

Days, weeks and months passed. The couples settled down to the routine of their lives. Applejack and Rarity came to a compromise. They bought a cottage about halfway between Sweet Apple Acres and Carousel Boutique. AJ had built a large addition so Rarity could have a room to plan her fashions and do special projects.

They’d promised not to try and change the other. But when you live with a pony long enough, things happen. Twilight had nearly fainted when going to Apple Bloom’s Birthday Party at Sugarcube Corner, she saw Rarity and AJ there wearing matching dresses. AJ had on a Rarity’s amount of makeup including false eyelashes. Twilight had to admit to herself AJ didn’t look bad.

But the biggest shock was when she’d dropped in at Rarity and AJ’s cottage to get a dress repaired, when she was met at the door by Rarity without makeup or false eyelashes, her mane tied up in a bandanna and wearing an apron. Twilight didn’t recognize her at first and thought Rarity had hired a housekeeper.

The library had opened to regular hours and all seemed normal.

Months passed and at this time Muffins was starting to show. The increased girth was something which had to be explained to Dinky, with the help of Twilight and a numbers of books. Dinky took the news with great joy. A new brother or sister! Twilight and Muffins told her because of the way life works, that it’s the male’s contribution that determines male or female. Because both participants were female, it was a good bet it’d be a sister.

CHAPTER ELEVEN: Do You Know Who I Really Am?

For the most part, all went well. Most ponies were happy for the couple. But there were a few ponies who weren’t comfortable with the situation and were dubious on claims of female/female procreation.

Unfortunately there were issues the innocent had to face.

Scootaloo, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Dinky were knocking around a ball, and just having fun the way little girls are suppose to. The ball went wide and stopped in front of Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon.

“Hey Diamond! Kick that ball over here,” called Scootaloo.

“Get it yourselves, losers!”

Diamond and Silver laughed as if they had said something incredibly witty.

The Cutie Mark Crusaders walked over to retrieve the ball. Just as they reached there, Diamond put her hoof on it to show it wasn’t going to be that easy to retrieve it.

“Hey losers, it was bad enough when you blank flanks were hanging out together, but now you’re with a bigger loser.”

Laughs from Diamond and Silver again.

“Who’re you calling loser?” Said Apple Bloom, “you take that back! Say you’re sorry!”

Dinky was starting to get upset.

“Oh, I’m sorry alright. Sorry I have to put up with the likes of you and this one,” pointing at Dinky.

I guess none of you paid any attention to the lecture Miss Cheerilee gave on babies and where foals come from. She said to have a foal, there must be a colt and a mare. My mom told me all about how it’s done. So there’s no way Dinky’s mom is having a foal with Twilight Sparkle. Twilight is a strange pony but come on!”

“Hey Diamond, don’t you think...”

“Hush Silver Spoon. I know what I’m talking about. My dad said it was bad enough when Bon-Bon and Lyra made a spectacle of things. But it’s now just getting worse!”

“I think you’d better shut your mouth talking about my moms like that before you go too far.” Said Dinky working up nerve.

“What are you going to do... Dinky? You know what I’m talking about. You see it all the time and yet you’ve the guts to come to school around normal ponies.”

“Diamond! Dinky’s right, that’s enough!” said Silver Spoon uncharacteristically speaking against Diamond.

“If you can’t face the truth, then you’re as bad as them!” Said Diamond, pushing Silver down.

Silver started to cry and ran back to the school.

“Listen looser,” said Diamond, looking at Dinky. “it’s bad enough your mother is married to a mare. But to claim to have a foal from a mare, that’s nothing but a crock of lies.”

Diamond was so into her tirade that she paid no attention that all three of Dinky’s friends were getting flush with anger.

“You want the truth? Here is the truth, your mother can’t be faithful to Twilight if she’s with foal. She has to be going out on Twilight and seeing stallions on the side.”

“Stop saying that!” yelled Dinky.

“What? Can’t take the truth that your mom is a big whore?”

Diamond realized too late when she drove off Silver Spoon, she’d abandoned any backup she might’ve had. She didn’t have time to do anything before all four Cutie Mark Crusaders were on her. They were holding down Diamond.

“Go get a rope off the swing set,” said Apple Bloom.

Diamond had heard that line from old cowpony movies, and it didn’t bode well for the victim. Her eyes went wide in fear.

Miss Cheerilee and Silver Spoon came running up to see Diamond Tiara hog-tied hanging by her legs from the swing set. Her Tiara stuffed in her mouth and tears streaming from her eyes.

“What’s going on here?” asked Miss Cheerilee. “Why is Diamond Tiara tied up, why is her tiara in her mouth?”

“Oh hi Miss Cheerilee, her tiara is in her mouth because we couldn’t get it to stay in the other end.” Said Scootaloo, “Diamond Tiara is so full of sweetness today we figured we’d play piñata with her. Can we get a ball bat?”

Miss Cheerilee sat at her desk. Across from her were Candy Mane from the Children's Home, Rarity, Applejack, Muffins, Twilight and Filthy Rich.

“I’ve interviewed all involved with this, by themselves so I could get the truth. Apparently some very unkind things were said to Dinky by Diamond Tiara.

Very unkind things.

And what bothers me is from what I gathered Mr. Rich, Diamond was repeating things heard at home.

I’ll not tolerate violence in my school. It solves nothing. I know they were all sticking up for their friend but I’ve got to make sure they know what they did was wrong. So Dinky, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo are suspended from school for two weeks, they’ll receive their assignments by volunteer students and they’ll keep up on their studies.”

“As for Diamond Tiara,” said Cheerilee looking at Filthy Rich, “What happened to her was uncalled for. But it wasn’t like she was innocent. I have word from several uninvolved bystanders who all reported the same thing.

Bigotry and intolerance are contrary to the charters of Ponyville and Equestria. They’ll not be tolerated here. Such sentiments have started some very nasty wars in the past and therefore not to be put up with.

Therefore, Diamond Tiara is expelled from school for the rest of the year and will have to repeat the grade next year.”

Filthy Rich stood up and addressed the ponies there.

“If I may say something; my daughter may’ve been out of line with the unkind name calling. And she'll be made to apologize to Dinky and Muffins Sparkle. But to be expelled for speaking the truth,” said Filthy Rich scowling at Twilight and Muffins. “Trying to clear some lie that’s being perpetrated on Ponyville. The whole of Ponyville is falling apart with all the mare-lovers getting married as if it were normal.

But to try and make us believe two mares can produce a foal. Don’t make me laugh!

It’s just a way to hide some sick and un-natural relationships and shove them down everypony’s throat as if there was nothing wrong.

Well I’ve had enough and I won’t stand for it anymore! I’ll make sure ponies know the truth!”

Filthy sat back down, it was clear from where Diamond Tiara got her arrogance.

“Miss Cheerilee, may I reply to that?” Asked Twilight.

“Go ahead Mrs. Sparkle, but remember this is just a school and we’re deciding the wellbeing of the students.”

“I will Miss Cheerilee,” said Twilight.

Twilight stood looking at Filthy Rich.

Filthy was looking smug as if he knew that he’d called Twilight’s bluff. He was sure he could debunk any lame excuse Twilight Sparkle would come up with.

He was about to learn differently.

“You’ve said some serious things, Mr. Rich. As if your narrow mind decides what’s right and what’s wrong. Your version of the ‘truth’ is all you can wrap your narrow mind around. And so you on pass your so-called knowledge to an innocent filly who, out of respect, takes what her father says as how things really are. You belittle and pass judgment on ponies without even really knowing anything about their lives or who they really are.

So stop and think a moment. You condemn my wife and me but do you really know who I am?

Have you ever considered why I’m Celestia’s Apprentice?

I don’t like to brag but Princess Celestia has officially declared that I am the most powerful Unicorn in Equestria, perhaps the most powerful in centuries, if not longer.

Twilight cocked her head and gave Filthy the most unnerving glare:

“How about a little demonstration of extreme magic.”

Twilight’s horn glowed, Filthy disappeared in a flash. There was a pause then her horn glowed again. Filthy reappeared gasping for air.

“That’s a taste of deep space, unprotected. Without life support, you can hold your breath about a minute before freezing, suffocating and your blood boiling,” said Twilight.

There was another glow and a flash, Filthy was gone again. When he reappeared he was soaking wet and coughing.

“And that’s about as deep in the sea as you can go without being instantly crushed.” Said Twilight.

“But look at you,” said Twilight in mock compassion, “you’re cold and wet. Let’s dry you off.”

There was another flash and Filthy was gone.

“Twilight please,” said Cheerilee, there was fear in her eyes.

“I’m just making a point,” said Twilight with a smile. “I wouldn’t really hurt him. At least not permanently.”

There was another flash and Filthy was back, he was dry, smelling slightly singed and the smell of brimstone could be detected. his eyes showed unadulterated fear.

“And that was the flames of Tartarus,” said Twilight. "Keep going the way you've been going and you'll definitely visit there again, ad infinitum!"

Twilight paused to let the previous lessons sink in. Then she continued;

"But I don’t have to use those powers. There are more mundane powers at my disposal.

My position as Celestia’s Apprentice gives me wide ranging authority. I’ve access to the rulers of Equestria at anytime, as does my wife and my daughters.”

Twilight let that sink in a moment, she noticed that Filthy’s look changed from fear to concerned.

“Think about this Mr. Ritch, I could revoke your business license for no other reason than I feel like it.

I could condemn your property and take it in the name of the Crown, on a whim.

I could have you and your family held in the dungeon at Canterlot Castle without trial or charges, just because I wanted to.

Are you following me? I have the trust and approval of the Crown, and by extension;

I WIELD THAT SAME POWER (POWER, POWER, POWER)."

That last part was delivered in a loud hollow and echoing voice. Just to add a little drama.

Filthy was starting to sweat. Twilight’s companions had never heard Twilight speak this way or use her power to this extent. They were only now understanding what ‘Lady Twilight Sparkle’ was capable of.

Twilight stopped again to let it sink in.

“But for me to do any of these things, things I know would be wrong of me to do, it would set a bad example for my daughters.

So instead, for the first and I hope the last time, I’m going to exercise that power and authority.”

Then Twilight turned to Miss Cheerilee.

“I’m sorry Cheerilee, but as Celestia’s Apprentice and the authority that comes with it, I must countermand your punishment of,” she paused....

“Diamond Tiara.”

Filthy Rich flinched, he looked startled and worried. What greater shame or horror was about to happen? He was imagining his poor little daughter screaming as she was engulfed in the flames of Tartarus.

“Diamond was acting out of ignorance from what had been projected on her by her father. So in the name of Celestia Rex, I decree she’s suspended for two weeks, like all the others involved.”

Miss Cheerilee smiled, as Twilight sat back down and held Muffins’ hoof.

“This is the tolerance I spoke of, Mr. Rich. Twilight could’ve lashed out in anger and imprisoned you or banished you and your family to your ruin, or worse. But instead, she had compassion on your daughter. A daughter who wronged her family. I’d go home and think of what transpired here.”

“Your girls are waiting outside.” Cheerilee said getting up and walking out.

Filthy Rich had a confused look on his face. He knew he wouldn’t have shown any mercy if somepony had berated him, his ideas and his family.

He got up to leave, then passing in front of Applejack;

“Zap Apples should be coming soon,” said AJ “Stop by Sweet Apple Acres and we can talk about your usual order.”

Filthy was more confused and wasn’t sure what, if anything Applejack was hinting at. Before he reached the door. Twilight spoke up.

“Oh and Mr. Rich,” a document appeared in front of his face, “this is a proclamation by Princesses Celestia and Luna attesting to the magical and miraculous conception of our foal. If you’ve any more doubts, please feel free to see the princesses, I can get you an appointment.”

After Filthy left, the five broke out laughing.

“Did you really send him to Tartarus Darling?” asked Rarity.

“I needed to put the fear of Celestia into him,” said Twilight with a smile.

“And fear of Twilight Sparkle,” laughed Candy Mane.

“Remind me never to piss you off Twi!” laughed AJ.

CHAPTER TWELVE: It’s Time

After this, there appeared to be no overt resistance to the three married mare couples. And even Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon started to have better relations with the CMC.

And despite Filthy Rich’s prediction, the whole of Ponyville nor Equestria collapsed, nor was there a rush of mares marrying each other.

Life went on, Muffins got bigger. She and Twilight continued to fall deeper in love. As well as did Rarity and AJ.

Then one night in November, right after the Running of the Leafs (which Twilight finished 3rd, a shock to AJ and Rainbow Dash) Twilight and her beloved Muffins were asleep in bed. Twilight was dreaming of having made herself a set of wings and she was flying with her wife, when she felt a hoof on her shoulder, gently shaking her.

“What?” Twilight mumbled.

“Honey, my water bag broke,” said Muffins.

Still in a half asleep state, Twilight mumbled;

“Okay Dear, go back to sleep and I’ll get you a new one in the morning.”

This improper response was met with a non-too gentle hoof in the ribs.

“Twilight!” Muffins responded louder, “the foal is coming!”

To the end of her days, Twilight could never remember how she’d gotten out of bed.

“Ok,ok,ok,ok,ok,ok!” Stammered Twilight going into her I don’t know what to do panic, jogging in place.

“Get Spike to sent the letter and get the girls up.” Said Muffins slightly amused. That is until the contraction hit. “And hurry!”

“Get Spike up and have the girls send the letter… Right!” Twilight vanished.

Muffins just shook her head and chuckled.

They had a letter already written, as per Celestia’s suggestion, for the princesses to send a cart to take them to the Magic Hospital at Canterlot Castle.

Sparkler was dispatched to tell their friends with instructions to return as soon as possible. Sparkler started at Fluttershy’s cottage, being the furthest away, then Rarity and AJ’s at their cottage between Carousel Boutique and Sweet Apple Acres. As she galloped to Sugarcube Corner, it hit her, how would she get Rainbow Dash? Perhaps send Fluttershy up to Rainbow’s cloud house. Sparkler frantically knocked at the door when an upper window opened.

“Keep it down,” said Pinkie Pie, sticking her head out the window. “the Cake’s foals are sleeping.”

“Pinkie! Mom’s foal is coming!”

To Sparkler’s surprise, Rainbow Dash stuck her head out the same window, but Sparkler had no time to think about it.

“The foal!” exclaimed Rainbow, “we’ll be right there.”

Sparkler galloped back to the library smirking at what just happened. Before she made it halfway, a familiar Rainbow blur of speed streaked overhead, and it appeared that Pinkie Pie was riding on Rainbow’s back.

It only took about a half-hour for the group to gather. The friends had been assigned jobs to do when this happened. Bags were packed for Muffins and Twilight. Pinkie was keeping Cookie entertained and distracted. Fluttershy was with Twilight and Muffins to keep them calm. Fluttershy was actually having to work with Twilight more than Muffins.

Rainbow came streaking in.

“Princess Luna’s cart is almost here!”

“What? It should’ve been at least another twenty to thirty minutes!” said Twilight surprised.

“The princess sent six guards to pull it!”

Almost as soon as Rainbow finished there was a knock at the door.

There was one of Luna’s guards suggesting they hurry. He informed them two more carts were on the way for the non-flying friends to follow.

Less than ten minutes later, Muffins and Twilight were streaking through the night sky. Muffins was in good spirits despite the contractions coming closer.

“I’ve never flown this fast.” Said Twilight to her wife.

“Neither have I,” Muffins smiled. “I think Rainbow Dash would have a hard time keeping up.”

“I’d wouldn’t bet on it,” said an unmistakable Pegasus pony with a rainbow mane and tail. She’d appeared out of the dark, just off to their side.

“Rainbow!” exclaimed Twilight.

“I came to help. We mare-lovers should stick together.”

Then she sped just ahead of the guards.

“Come on boys! Try and keep up!” she taunted.

The wagon lurched forward. Twilight and Muffins got to experience a sonic rainboom firsthand.

“Now I know I’ve never flown this fast!” Said Muffins in fear and delight.

They arrived at Canterlot Castle in record time. The princesses were waiting along with hospital staff. Muffins was put on a gurney and wheeled in. Twilight and Rainbow were directed to a waiting area while Muffins was being prepped. In a bit, Princess Luna came in the room.

“Twilight Sparkle, are you ready to go back with your wife?”

“Yes Luna,” she replied. Twilight gave Rainbow instructions to look out for everyone.

Luna led her back to the delivery area. Muffins was on a bed and doctors were checking her out. Celestia met Twilight outside the room.

“My most beloved student!” said the princess. “My heart is singing for you. Your parents have been notified. I’ve one request for you. I’m not asking as your teacher or your ruler, only as somepony who I hope you consider a friend.”

“Anything, Princess.”

“May I be with you in the delivery room.”

“I’d feel better if you would.”

“Then let’s go in.” Said Celestia.

As they entered, Muffins face lit up seeing Twilight and Celestia.

“My Love, is it okay if the princess join us?”

“I’d love it.” Said Muffins.

She looked like she was fighting the discomfort with all her might. The doctors were coaching her through it all.

It had been a couple of hours when Celestia noted an odd look on Twilight’s face.

“Is something wrong my apprentice?”

“No,” answered Twilight. “Well, there’s only one unimportant thing. We were so excited we were having a foal. And it’s been the thrill of my life being with Muffins through this. Watching the foal growing inside my wife. Having her put my hoof on her belly when the foal was kicking.”

Then looking at Muffins and taking her hoof.

“Don’t take this wrong, My Love, but I’m kind of jealous. I’m a mare and part of the joy of bringing a new life into the world is the pregnancy and birth process.

The foal is mine, I almost feel cheated. That ingrained desire mares have to bear children is not being met. I know that I impregnated my beautiful wife, but I sometimes feel left out, with no more physical attachment to the foal than if I adopted it.

I know there’s pain, a pain that My Love has to endure, but I’ve always been told there’s joy as well. A joy I’ll never feel.” There was a tear in Twilight’s eye.

“Oh my Darling!” said Muffins, taking Twilight’s hoof with both of hers.

“I’m sorry to act like this, the attention should be on you.” Said Twilight, managing a smile.

“Twilight Sparkle,” said the princess. “Are you sure of what you’re saying?”

“Yes ma’am. And I’m sorry I brought such petty concerns in here where I should be supporting my wife and not feeling sorry for myself.”

The princess turned to address one of the nurses;

“Bring in another bed. Put it by this one.”

The bed was brought, Celestia turned to Twilight.

“I can give you what you want, but be warned, it’s not going to be pleasant, get on the bed.” Twilight got up and was put in the same position as her wife. “Now take her hoof.”

Celestia closed her eyes, her golden aura covered the two ponies. Twilight suddenly felt a fullness in her abdomen, something was moving. She felt her lower belly tighten. She wasn’t ready for the discomfort. Both Muffins and Twilight let out a little cry. She was feeling the birth!

Celestia then said to Twilight;

“If it gets too hard to handle, just let go of your wife’s hoof. But remember, she has no easy release.”

Twilight understood. A side effect of the spell was Twilight was starting to hear/feel her wife’s thoughts. Twilight had a flood of memories wash over her. Memories of joy, ecstasy, passion, love for a stallion. Then a horrible, horrible loss. Followed by loneliness, sadness, mistreatment due to her condition. Then an unexpected love.

The memories of the pregnancy were there also, all the highs and lows. The morning sickness and the joy of feeling the foal kick inside her. The whole eleven months experienced.

Through the jumble of memories Twilight could feel an anchor which held it all together, what made it all worthwhile, it has Twilight herself. This all happened in just a fraction of a second.

Muffins felt Twilight’s memories as well. Memories of growing up without real friends and thinking that books alone could make her happy. Memories of excitement of being chosen for Celestia’s School, hard work and study achieving goal after goal and nopony to share with. Memories of finding a threat to Equestria, being put into a strange circumstance of having to accept friends and drawing strength from them, allowing them to bring out her own strength.

Having to defeat Nightmare Moon, Discord, Queen Chrysalis and King Sombra. Yet with all these successes and friends, there was still nopony to really share with.

There was the memories of waking up one morning with Pinkie Pie in her bed. This started her thinking that there really was something else that she’d never considered. But disappointment after disappointment of trying to reach out to somepony to help ease the loneliness. Frustration causing her to consider an offer of ‘pity sex’ by Pinkie to help ease the newfound need in her soul.

Then memories of a wet cold pony at her door one stormy night, the compassion for this one awakened feelings which had only been hinted at before. The first real kiss, the first taste of love. For all her knowledge and power, it was the first time she knew what life was really all about. Love for a pony she saw something in no other pony had seen in many years. A pony who now would be impossible to live without.

It was a blessing, no words could express what thankfulness there was to be given this gift.

Then the next contraction hit. It was a big one. Twilight felt the foal move inside her, moving down.

‘Hang in there My Love.’ Twilight heard Muffins in her head.

‘I’m here with you, I won’t leave you.’ Twilight thought back.

‘Our love is coming to fruition,’ thought Muffins, ‘you being in here is giving me strength.’

The next contraction hit, she felt the foal almost to her opening.

“Now push!” Said the doctor.

‘Help me My Love,’ Muffins thought.

Twilight centered on the foal she felt and she and Muffins pushed with all their might.

“Relax,” said the doctor.

‘It’s almost there, I can feel it,’ thought Twilight, ‘next time.’

‘Thank you My Love,’ thought Muffins.

The contraction hit.

“Push hard!” said the doctor, “push, push, push!”

Twilight and Muffins pushed, it felt like forever, the pressure, the pain!

‘I won’t let go!’ thought Twilight.

‘I know,’ thought Muffins.

Then the pressure was relieved with a feeling of movement out of her bottom. She felt sore, she felt tired and drained.

There were murmurs from the medical attendants, not sad but surprise.

‘Where’s the joy?’

‘Wait for it, my Darling.’

All at once there was the sound of crying. Twilight’s heart jumped! Tears of joy flowed from her eyes. She felt Muffins feeling the same.

‘You can let go now My Dear,’ thought Muffins.

‘I don’t want to.’

She heard with her ears;

“If you don’t let go,” said Muffins, “you can’t hold our foal.”

Twilight opened her eyes, Muffins was all smiles.

“What is it doctor?” asked Muffins and Twilight.

“It’s a filly.” Said the doctor.

“And?” Asked Muffins, “Unicorn or Pegasus?”

“Neither, or both, an Alicorn!”

“Alicorn?” Muffins and Twilight exclaimed, then looking back at Celestia.

“Luna and I suspected as much from the beginning, due to the special method of conception.” Said Celestia. “You two are truly blessed.”

The nurse had finished cleaning and wrapping the infant. Then brought the new foal to Muffins. Twilight had recovered enough to get off of bed and come to her wife’s side.

“Look at our daughter,” said Muffins in a voice that had no hint of the ordeal she’d just passed through.

Twilight’s horn glowed, the blanket drew back and Twilight saw what she knew to be the most beautiful foal she’d ever seen. She had Twilight’s color but Muffins mane and tail. The foal stretched, her little wings shook then turned her head and opened her eyes.

“She has your eyes My Dear,” said Celestia to Muffins.

“Oh I hope not!” said Muffins frantically.

“No my child,” said Luna with a chuckle, “they’re the same beautiful color.”

It was the first time Twilight realized that Luna was in the room also.

“Have you thought of a name?” asked Celestia. “The doctors will need to know.”

As organized as Twilight was, she’d never thought to talk to Muffins about names.

“Darling, I’ve thought of one, if I might suggest.”

Twilight meekly nodded her head.

“I’m glad that the princesses are here because they’ve been so important to you My Love. And so, to me as well.

Celestia is the day, Luna is the night. You my Darling are the twilight. So what do you think of Dawn Sparkle?”

Twilight never could remember seeing either princess get misty eyed like this before.

“I think Dawn Sparkle is perfect.” Said Twilight.

“I concur,” said Luna trying to hide a tear.

“Natural born Alicorns are special and rare.” Said Celestia, “you’ll need special help in bringing up this special foal, therefore, whatever help we can render is yours.”

“You’ve free access to us whenever you need.” Said Luna.

“You just want to play with our niece as much as you can,” said Celestia to her sister.

“And your point being?” was Luna’s response with a large smile.

Muffins and the foal were brought into a room. After Twilight had helped her wife to settle in and feed the foal. Twilight and Muffins’ family and friends were allowed in, a few at a time. First were Dinky, Sparkler, Twilight Velvet, Night Light and Dr. Hooves.

Sparkler and Dinky were first. Dinky was so happy to see her new sister, she was now a big sister! Sparkler, being a nanny, couldn’t wait to get the chance to take care of her new little sister.

It was a real problem trying to let anypony hold Dawn once Twilight Velvet had her. Twilight’s mother had decided she couldn’t let the little precious foal out of her sight.

The friends were allowed in next. They came in, in shifts, as not to take up too much space.

Rarity held Dawn, and AJ held Rarity. There was something in their eyes, as they gazed at the little foal. A deep look of contentment.

Of all their friends, the one who made the biggest fuss was the one they expected least. Rainbow Dash. Since the day she discovered Muffins at Twilight’s, Rainbow had become more interested in personal relationships. In fact if you had to take stock, in the little over a year and a half, Rainbow could’ve been counted as Muffins and Twilight’s best friend.

A nurse came in and told everypony that the foal needed to rest and be fed, they could all come back later. As everypony filed out, Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie, who’d been quite subdued, asked if they could stay to ask one thing.

“Of course,” was the reply.

Once the last pony left, Pinkie spoke up.

“You see,” said Pinkie as if uncharacteristically choosing her words with care. “Dashie and I have a favor to ask.”

“What’s that, Pinkie?”

“Well you see, Twilight,” said Rainbow, looking at the floor and shifting one foot, “we need to see if there’s a permanent way to allow Earth Ponies to walk on clouds.”

“Rainbow, are you holding your tail out more than normal?”

Rainbow blushed.

“Dashie asked me to move in with her, if it could be done.” Said Pinkie. “I’ve my whirly-gig to get up to her cloud house. But I’d like to stay once I’m there.”

Muffins and Twilight smiled.

“You remember the Best Young Fliers Competition?” asked Twilight, “I gave Rarity wings that’d only last three days. But the walk on cloud spell, it didn’t have a limitation.”

“You mean, all this time we...” Rainbow stopped. “Thanks, we’ll talk to you later. Come on Pinkie!”

“Congrat’s on the foal,” said Pinkie being dragged by the tail out the door.

Muffins and Twilight laughed long as Dawn started to nurse.

Muffins kissed Twilight deeply.

It still took Twilight’s breath away.

CHAPTER THREE: One Announcement, Two Revelations

Pinkie Pie was surprised to get an invitation to a get-together she didn’t plan.

“A party Twilight?” she asked, “and I didn’t get to plan it?”

“No, this isn’t quite a party. It’s just a gathering of our friends for an important announcement.”

Twilight would say no more, so Pinkie thought she’d explode before Saturday, and that was tomorrow.

The rest of Twilight’s friends, except Rainbow, were intrigued but not as much on edge as Pinkie. Spike didn’t attend because he was already aware, plus it was later and there was Owlowiscious to look after.

Sugarcube Corner’s main floor was large enough for one of Pinkie Pie’s parties. But now, instead of confetti, streamers and balloons, there were several tables in a group. On which was punch, sandwiches and other treats. There were cookies, cupcakes and muffins. In spite of common thought, the cookies were more to Muffins’ liking than the muffins.

At one group of tables were Twilight’s friends. There was Rainbow Dash (near the head table, being she was in on what’s going on), with Applejack and Rarity. Then there was Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy and Big Mac who was looking very unsure seeing how close Muffins and Twilight were setting together. Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo. Dinky Star sat with the Cutie Mark Crusaders.

The other group consisted of Muffins’ friends. By the head table was Amethyst Star (Sparkler), Carrot Top (who Muffins had to let in on earlier), Octavia (a school friend of Pinkie Pie’s as well) and Vinyl Scratch. Then at another table were Dr. Hooves (who turned out to be Muffins’ brother), Lyra and Bon-Bon Heartstrings

Seated at the head table were Twilight and Muffins sitting so that they could face everypony.

The guests sat around nibbling on the treats, talking low to their neighbors. Not quite certain why they were here.

With her magic, Twilight tapped a spoon on a glass for everypony’s attention, then she and Muffins stood up.

“I’m not sure if everypony knows each other,” started Twilight, “but you’re the closest friends and family we have in Ponyville.”

“I think it’d be a good idea for you to get to know each other better.” Said Muffins.

Odd looks from most seated. Rainbow and Carrot Top facehoofed.

“Just say IT for pony sake,” said Rainbow Dash.

“Say what?” asked Sparkler.

Twilight took Muffins hoof, some eyebrows raised.

“Twilight and I’ve been seeing each other for some time now.” Said Muffins, “we’re in love and we want you all to be the first to know.”

Most of the assembled applauded. Sparkler sat open mouthed. The Cutie Mark Crusaders and Dinky giggled, Bon-Bon and Lyra looked at each other and smiled a knowing smile while applauding. Nopony noticed that Applejack and Rarity had given each other the same look.

Then Sparkler jumped up and hugged her mother.

“I’m so happy for you, mom.” She said.

Everypony else came up to congratulate the couple. Big Mac gave a very short congratulations and excused himself. Twilight looked at Applejack.

“He had a crush on Derpy, sorry, I mean Muffins,” she whispered.

Lyra and Bon-Bon said something about welcome to the herd.

Rarity spoke up.

“Twilight, Darling, when did you discover that you liked mares?”

“I don’t,” Twilight replied.

“But Sugar Cube,” continued Applejack. “Didn’t notice that the pony you’re dating is a mare.”

“This hasn’t anything to do with a choice between stallions and mares. I’m in love with Twilight and that’s all that matters,” said Muffins.

“The same goes for me,” said Twilight, “I was never drawn to anypony before. I can’t now think of being with anypony else.”

With that the two kissed publicly for the first time. Bon-Bon and Lyra cheered the loudest.

Applejack raised her hoof. All looked her way.

“Sugar Cubes, Rarity and I want you to know we do understand what you’re saying completely,” said Applejack looking at Rarity. Rarity smiled and gave a little nod, Applejack continued;

“But heck! You call that a kiss? That ain’t nothin’!” she smiled.

Then putting a foreleg around Rarity’s neck, AJ planted an equally passionate kiss on Rarity. And to most of the ponies’ surprise, Rarity didn’t pull away. In fact she pulled AJ closer.

Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, and the rest burst out in laughter. It was Rainbow’s turn to be dumbfounded.

“I thought I was the only one of the group that was a mare-lover! Think of all the fun we’ve missed. What a party it would’ve been. Rarity, AJ, Twilight and myself. And heck, Pinkie’s only requirements for a ‘partner’ is they have a pulse. It would have been awesome!

And with the right amount of wine, we might’ve gotten Fluttershy to play as well.”

Fluttershy blushed, but did smile.

Everypony laughed.

Later, after the party broke up, Twilight, Muffins, Sparkler and Dinky were sitting around after the rest had left.

“Is there something you want to ask my Darlings?” asked Muffins.

“Are you really sure about this, mom?” asked Sparkler. “I know ponies don’t look at it as badly as in the past, you know, two mares. But I know there’re still ponies who’d try to make things hard on you.”

“I’m more sure of this than anything, my sweet. We love each other so much that we could face such challenges together.”

“And you Miss Sparkle? Will this hurt your standing with Princess Celestia?”

Twilight froze for a moment, she never thought of telling the princess.

“I guess I have a letter to write to the princess.” Then looking at Sparkler, “but I don’t care. I love your mother. She’s all the world to me now.”

Sparkler hugged Twilight’s neck.

“That’s all I wanted to hear.”

At that moment, Twilight felt a tapping on her foreleg. There was Dinky looking up at her.

“Are you going to be my mommy too?” she asked.

Twilight and Muffins looked at each other. Tears welling in their eyes.

“I sure hope so.” Said Twilight bending down to look her in the eyes. “Would that be okay with you…

Cookie?”

It was the first time Twilight called Dinky by the nickname that only family used. Cookie’s eyes went wide and threw a hug around Twilight’s neck. With that the four of them shared a group hug. Twilight was so happy she could burst. It was more than she’d ever hoped for.

A readymade family, with love!

Dear Princess Celestia,

I’m sorry I haven’t written about this sooner, but I’ve learned a little more about friendship than I ever expected.

I’ve found the pony of my dreams and I’m pretty sure this is the pony I want to spend the rest of my life with. I know as my teacher and friend you wish all the happiness for me.

But there’s something more and I’m sorry to have my doubts, but I was afraid you might think less of me when you found out the pony I love is a mare.

You know her, she’s Muffins Star, the pony who was at the Canterlot Institute of Science. The pony who survived the accident.

I’m not sure how this all happened, but I’m happier than I’ve ever been.

I remain your Faithful Student,

Twilight Sparkle

Twilight, Muffins and Spike sat around the front room of the library. It was tough waiting on the princess’ reply.

Twilight waited a week to send the letter while Muffins and Dinky moved in. Sparkler’s duties had her staying at the different pony’s houses where she was working. But she’d come by for meals and the occasional overnight. Dinky found a friend and playmate in Spike and Spike liked having a young pony around the place looking up to him.

“The wait is unbearable!” said Twilight at last. “I wish it was over, win, lose or draw!”

Muffins took Twilight’s hoof.

“It’ll be okay My Love. Spike just sent the letter an hour ago.”

“But what if it isn’t okay?” said Twilight in terror. “What if she throws me in a dungeon? Or she banishes me? Or she banishes me and then she throws me in a dungeon in the place she banishes me?”

Spike put a claw to his head.

“Not this again.”

“You don’t know the princess like I do. Any moment now, there’ll be a knock at the door. Followed by the entry of two of the palace guards, that’s followed by a Captain of the Guard. They’ll put a spell on me and drag me out of here never to be seen alive by any pony ever again!

It only gets worse from there!” Twilight was on the verge of tears.

“Don’t be silly,” giggled Muffins, kissing Twilight’s hoof.

At that moment there was a loud hard knocking at the door. The door flew open and there stood two palace guards. Three sets of eyes opened wide, three jaws dropped. In marched Shining Armor, Captain of the Royal Guard and Twilight’s brother.

Twilight was about to faint, Muffins could feel her fear and trembling, Twilight looked deathly pale.

Shining Armor announced in a professional voice.

“Their Grand Royal Highnesses. Princesses Celestia and Luna. Rulers of Equestria!”

Twilight thought, ‘this is it’. It was going to be worse than she’d imagined. No trial, the princess would enter and pronounce judgment right then and there.

Twilight wondered how cold it was going to be on the moon. Or how hot Tartarus will be.

But instead of a royal and regal entry, Celestia rushed in, Luna walked behind and stood with Shining Armor. Celestia’s golden magic aura encased the two mares and drew them to her. She embraced them both. Luna and Shining stood back and looked with amusement.

“My Darling, Darling Twilight!” she said more excited than Twilight had ever seen her. “I couldn’t be happier if I was your mother!”

Then addressing Muffins, who was quite in shock.

“And I’ve thought of you so many times over the years, hoping happiness and love would find you. This is beyond my fondest dreams!”

There were streams of joy running down the princess’ face. Celestia hugged harder, her strength was incredible.

“Then me being in love with a mare doesn’t bother you?” asked Twilight.

Celestia released the hug and looked at Twilight.

“Why child, does it bother you?”

The wisdom of the ages came through in that simple statement.

“Twily,” said her brother, “we all couldn’t be happier. Mom, dad and Cadence were ecstatic and told me they expect to meet this special mare soon.

But I’m a little disappointed that I had to find out from a piece of paper.”

He winked, reminding Twilight of the scolding she gave him when she discovered he was getting married from a wedding invitation.

“I too share your joy my children.” Said Luna with a sly look. “The two of you must come visit with me. Remember the night and ALL that goes on there is my domain.”

Everypony, except Spike got the innuendo and laughed.

“Twilight, you said in your letter, this is the pony you want to spend the rest of your life with. You truly feel this?” asked Celestia.

“Yes ma’am, I’m more sure of this than anything.”

“And you, my Dear,” Celestia said to Muffins, “Is this also your feelings?”

“I don’t think any other pony could make me happier. My children love and accept her. I love her more than I’ve ever loved anypony else. That says a lot being I did love Shooting Star so much, Your Highness.”

“That’s all I wanted to hear,” replied the princess. “When do we make the wedding?”

Twilight and Muffins looked at each other;

“Wedding?”

Both smiled.

“I guess this is something we have to talk about.” Said Muffins.

The princesses and the others couldn’t stay long but Twilight promised to let the princess know what they decided.

After the princess and others left. Twilight told Muffins she’d an errand to run. She kissed Muffins and trotted off at a happy pace.

Twilight was a pony of habit and organization. But for some reason, meal times weren’t part of that routine. She’d eat only if she remembered to, between books or her research. Now with two to three (when Sparkler was staying, like this night) more ponies living there, meals were like clockwork, thanks to Muffins, who turned out to be a great cook. As the little family sat around the table. Twilight felt it was a good time and place for the talk.

“Sweetheart, Sparkler, Cookie, Spike,” she started, “I know the five of us haven’t been together for very long. But I think Celestia was right, what do you think about the two of us getting married?”

“Two mommies!” exclaimed Dinky.

“I can’t think of any reason not to, and I want you both to be happy.” said Sparkler.

“You know I want you to be happy, more than anything,” said Spike. “I never had a mother, but you’ve been raising me, so you’re the closest thing to a mother I’ve had. And I’m glad of it. I’m so happy for you.”

“And you Honey?” said Twilight looking at Muffins.

“Are you asking?” Muffins said raising one eyebrow.

“I talked to Rainbow Dash about the anatomy of Pegasi.”

Muffins look confused. She thought Twilight had been examining Pegasus anatomy quite closely.

“It’s an easy thing for Unicorns because we use our horns, but I understand on your wing, the very first flight feather is attached to a finger-like structure.”

Muffins nodded with a even more confused look.

Twilight then reached out, took Muffins left wing with her hoof and knelt down.

“Muffins Star, I can’t think of living my life from here on out without you. Would you do me the ultimate honor of being Muffins Sparkle?

Will you marry me?”

With that, Twilight levitated a diamond ring from out of a drawer in a chest by the wall. It paused just before Muffins.

Tears were streaming from Muffins eyes. Not to mention Twilight’s and Sparkler’s.

“Yes! Oh Celestia, yes!”

The ring vanished and reappeared on the structure of Muffins wing.

Twilight and Muffins kissed more passionately than they ever did in front of the kids.

“Hey! Cookie, Spike, want to go to Sugarcube Corner?” asked Sparkler. “My treat!”

Muffins and Twilight giggled at the gesture. Without waiting for them to leave, there was a purple flash and they were no longer in the room. But movement was heard upstairs.

“Gross!” exclaimed Spike jokingly.

“Let us get out of here,” said Sparkler with a smile.

The kids came home hours ago. Sparkler had put Dinky to bed. She explained Mommy and Twilight wouldn’t be able to kiss her good night, but she assured her she’d get extra kisses in the morning.

Muffins and Twilight were laying in bed. Muffins was looking at the ring on her wing.

“You didn’t need to do that, My Love.”

“You’re displeased?” asked Twilight.

“No, no, no!” said Muffins kissing Twilight.

“Just because I gave you a ring, don’t think of me as the ‘husband’” said Twilight, “or haven’t you noticed?”

Muffins giggled.

“I’m not sure,” she said with ‘that look’ in her eyes, “maybe I should check again.”

Muffins turned and examined Twilight’s nether regions, then started kissing the way that drove Twilight wild.

“Nothing yet,” said Muffins between kisses, “Maybe I should check closer.”

“Perhaps you’re the ‘husband’ said Twilight, “I think I’ll have to check you.”

Twilight wondered what she ever did before Muffins.

Muffins and Twilight were seen everywhere together. There were some odd looks to see the very reserved Twilight and the pony everypony called Derpy in playful banter, standing very close, hardly one was seen then without the other.

Many noted the diamond sparkling on Muffins wing. Somehow it was being impressed on the little community it was improper to refer to the blue-gray mare as Derpy. Rainbow Dash had been almost belligerent to narrow-minded ponies that they shouldn’t refer to her friend (even Rainbow never thought she’d ever refer to Muffins like that) as anything but her real name, Muffins!

All noted how happy the two were.

The other odd thing noticed was the farm pony Applejack was seen at Carousel Boutique a lot yet never wore any dresses. She was with the very beautiful Rarity most of the time.

Even the slowest ponies were starting to realize four ponies they had preconceived notions about were all wrong. Here were four ponies who were very happy, more than they had ever seen prior. And for all appearance, none of them cared what others thought. Which for the most ponies’ part, they were all happy to see these hero ponies of Ponyville happy.

It was about a week later, Princess Celestia was in constant contact with Twilight. Mostly concerning wedding plans.

Muffins was honored to have letters (through Spike) from the princess about her thoughts on the wedding. She commented how much easier it’d have been when she was at the post office to just have a dragon in each household. Muffins had quit the Weather Team and the Equestria Postal Service when she moved in with Twilight. She helped out at the library, and Twilight’s stipend from the Crown, more than covered the bills and food for three extra mouths to feed. The new arrangement gave Dinky more time for friends. She became an official member of the Cutie Mark Crusaders. To the delight of all involved.

Twilight tried to insist she wanted a small service in Ponyville. But the princess all but made it a Royal Command the wedding would be a state affair at Canterlot Castle. It was demanded due to Twilight’s official position as the Royal Apprentice. Also Equestria owed so much to Twilight and her friends, it could be no less.

Now, Twilight, Muffins and the kids were going to Canterlot to finalize the arrangement. They all agreed on Hearth Warming Eve for the wedding. It’d be a later service so Princess Luna could attend. Besides wedding business, Twilight and the rest were going to visit Twilight’s parents. It was time to introduce Muffins and the kids to them.

They were going to drop in on Rarity as well. Rarity had temporarily closed Carousel Boutique and moved her operations to Canterlot ever since Princesses Celestia and Luna had requested she make them dresses for the wedding. This had been Rarity’s dream to design dresses for the princesses, (Twilight may’ve mentioned something to Celestia). There was also the two Brides’ dresses, two Best Mare dresses, ten Bride’s maids dresses, four Flower Filly dresses.

It being late fall, and nothing much going on at Sweet Apple Acres, AJ had an excuse to go with Rarity to help her ‘run errands’ and help out. But everypony understood the real reasons and after all, Rarity only requested one bedroom.