The Derpy I Know And Love Volume 4: And The Children Shall Lead

Chapters

PART ONE OF: AND THE CHILDREN SHALL LEAD. Coming of Age
CHAPTER ONE: Spin The Bottle
CHAPTER TWO: Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle
CHAPTER THREE: Scootaloo and Diamond Tiara
CHAPTER FOUR: Flashback To Dawn
CHAPTER FIVE: At the Library
CHAPTER SIX: Dash-ed Hopes
CHAPTER SEVEN: Hopes Renewed
CHAPTER EIGHT: Flashback To Dawn 2
CHAPTER NINE: Dancing to Music and Love
CHAPTER TEN: Party!
PART TWO OF: AND THE CHILDREN SHALL LEAD. Passing the Torch
CHAPTER ONE: Joy and Sadness
CHAPTER TWO: Following Ritual
CHAPTER THREE: Flash Back to Dawn 3
CHAPTER FOUR: New Lives
CHAPTER FIVE: Echoes Of The Future
CHAPTER SIX: The ‘Old Mare’s Club’
CHAPTER SEVEN: Echoes Of The Past And Present
CHAPTER EIGHT: It All Comes Out (To The Relief Of All)
CHAPTER NINE: A New Way To Live
EPILOGUE II FOR: THE DERPY I KNOW AND LOVE
EPILOGUE I FOR: THE DERPY I KNOW AND LOVE

PART ONE OF: AND THE CHILDREN SHALL LEAD. Coming of Age

This story takes place about 4 years after The Derpy I Know and Love 3.

CHAPTER ONE: Spin The Bottle

Dinky Sparkle, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon were in the old Cutie Mark Crusader clubhouse. Now that all had their cutie marks, all but Apple Bloom, the club had folded, and there were no more remarks about ‘Blank Flank’ especially with Apple Bloom being so proud of the fact of lacking one. Somehow it made her feel special after Twilight Sparkle explained it must be a very special talent if it was taking this long. The tree house was now their hangout and place for overnighters, like this evening.

Ever since Twilight Sparkle had come to the defense of Diamond Tiara and prevented her from being expelled from school and shamed, Diamond had softened up on her treatment of the CMC. Silver Spoon was the first to come over to being friends because of how Diamond had first treated her when she spoke against the way Diamond was ranking down Cookie’s mother.

Then after a new colt moved to the school and started belittling Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon because of, in his words, ridiculously vain and useless cutie marks, Dinky Sparkle, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo came to their defense, not wanting to see anypony bullied. Diamond did concede, however, wearing a tiara all the time was a little over the top, and now only wore it on special occasions.

The six fillies were now inseparable.

That next month was the graduation dance; they’d all be moving on to the Ponyville High School. All were excited because this would be the first year that they’d be allowed to go to a school dance accompanied by a colt, a real date. Thanks to Sweetie Belle, they’d all be getting fancy new dresses by the now Equestria famous designer Rarity.

They were all talking a-mile-a-minute about how exciting it was going to be and how many colts had asked them out. Then as it goes when girls get silly, they started talking about holding hooves and kissing, who’d kissed whom and at what age. As it turned out there were a lot of stories about a little peck on the lips behind the school or down by the swimming hole. But none had taken it any further.

“So none of you’ve done a tongue kiss? You know, like you see in the movies,” asked Silver Spoon.

“Who has to watch movies? My moms kiss that way all the time.” Said Dinky, “you’d think they were school fillies. Even Sparkler and her coltfriend never kiss like that in front of Dawn and me. It’s gross... Almost.”

“My parents aren’t that wild,” said Silver, “but they do get carried away sometimes.”

“That’s only because they love each other,” said Sweetie Belle, “my sister and Applejack behave the same way, don’t they Apple Bloom?”

“Oh yeah.”

“You think that’s something?” said Scootaloo, “I sometimes have to get a crowbar just to separate Rainbow’s lips from Pinkie’s so I can get a flying lesson.”

All laughed except Diamond, this didn’t go un-noticed.

“What’s wrong, Diamond,” asked Apple Bloom, “don’t your parents kiss in front of you and your brother?”

“No,” Diamond replied sounding a little down, “dad says that public displays of affection are improper. Even in the home.”

“I’m sorry,” said Sweetie Belle. She was feeling sorry, no, she was feeling compassion for her one time adversary who now was a close friend. “We didn’t mean to say anything to upset you.”

“I’m not upset,” said Diamond, perking up a little, she felt a flutter with Sweetie Belle showing concern about her feelings. “I do kind of wish they’d act a little more romantic. I know if I had a pony to love, I’d not act like I had to hide it from everypony.”

The two looked at each other, an appreciative smile on both faces.

“Well I don’t know if’n the dance leads to kissin’,” said Apple Bloom, “ but I’m kind of ‘fraid if’n it did.”

“Why's that,” asked Silver Spoon.

“I don’t wan’a date to think that I’m some little filly who doesn’t know anythin’ ‘bout datin’.”

“But we don’t know anything about dating,” said Dinky.

They all laughed.

“We could practice,” said Sweetie Belle.

“What do you mean?” asked Diamond, intrigued.

“My sister told me when she was our age, she and her friends would practice kissing.”

“Seriously?” asked Apple Bloom.

“Seriously!” Said Sweetie Belle, “she said it was kind of fun. They played a game called Spin the Bottle. They’d sit in a circle one pony would spin a bottle in the middle of the circle. The pony it pointed at when it stops they had to kiss.”

“Gross!” said Silver Spoon. “Kissing another filly! That isn’t right!”

Dinky Sparkle, Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom and Scootaloo looked at Silver Spoon.

“Really?” asked Dinky.

“Oh yes,” giggled Silver, “I forgot. Didn’t mean anything by it.”

All started to laugh.

They thought about it and decided to give it a shot. They had all settled down in a circle.

“If we are going to do this, we have to do it the right way.” Said Sweetie Belle, “tongues and all. No need to do this if we don’t”

They all agreed, and decided to spin the bottle and what ever pony it stopped on would go first, Sweetie Belle gave the bottle a spin, it stopped and was pointing at Scootaloo.

“Okay, let’s do this right!” Said Scootaloo, trying to sound like Rainbow Dash.

Scoot spun the bottle around and around. ‘Not Diamond Tiara,’ thought Sweetie Belle. The bottle slowed and stopped pointing at Dinky.

Scootaloo and Dinky blushed, leaned forward, they put their lips together. Then it was evident when they went to the tongue part. Then after a moment, they parted.

“That wasn’t as bad as I thought.” Said Dinky with an odd look in her eyes.

Scootaloo just blushed and smiled.

All laughed.

“Your turn Apple Bloom,” said Sweetie Belle.

She spun the bottle with gusto. ‘Not Sweetie Belle,’ thought Diamond Tiara. It took a bit for it to slow down, and then it stopped on Silver Spoon. Silver blushed and looked nervous. But she leaned quickly into Apple Bloom and planted a large wet one on her. Apple Bloom wasn’t ready for such an aggressive start, but she soon recovered and was performing as close to the way she’d seen Applejack and Rarity. They quickly broke the kiss; Silver blushed even more, and giggled.

“That was different,” said Apple Bloom.

“I guess that leaves us,” said Sweetie Belle to Diamond Tiara, she was trying not to show how happy she was with the situation.

“I guess so.” Said Diamond Tiara, making sure that her face didn’t give away how happy this made her.

Slowly Sweetie Belle and Diamond Tiara’s lips met. Sweetie felt Diamond’s lips part, her tongue tentatively entered her own mouth, and she did the same. They explored the other’s tongue back and forth. She’d hoped for this from the first suggestion of the kissing game. She was afraid that Diamond wouldn’t respond. Sweetie could feel however, that Diamond was in no hurry to stop. Sweetie Belle felt the impulse to pull Diamond closer, but fought it. Her heart was starting to pound. She realized that they had taken longer than the others and pulled away. It was hard to hide that she was having trouble breathing normal.

“Ewwww!” exclaimed Diamond.

All laughed. Sweetie laughed as well but was disappointed with Diamond’s reaction.

The night went on with more gossip, talks about the latest colt-bands and of course, lots and lots of snacks. It was getting late and at last the yawns became infectious. So they decided it was time to roll out the sleeping bags and turn in.

Sweetie Belle had trouble going to sleep, she kept thinking of Diamond Tiara and the kiss. It had to be well after midnight, she couldn’t go to sleep. It’d been a couple hours when she decided that she couldn’t lay there anymore. Sweetie listened to the slow breathing around her, after she was sure all were asleep, she crept out the door and stood on the little porch that surrounded the clubhouse. Propping herself up on the railing with her forelegs, Sweetie watched the little wisps of clouds floating past the face of Luna’s moon.

“I couldn’t get to sleep either,” came a voice from the other end of the porch.

“Diamond, I didn’t see you there.”

Diamond walked over and propped herself on the rails by Sweetie Belle. They stood there’s silence; both could tell the other had something to say.

“Don’t hate me Sweetie Belle,” said Diamond.

“Why would I hate you? We worked through all that stuff in the past. We’re best of friends now.”

“But I’m afraid I embarrassed you when we were playing Spin the Bottle,” said Diamond, not able to look Sweetie Belle in the eye.

“What makes you think that?” asked Sweetie.

“Because I held the kiss so long and then said ewwww afterward.”

“It’s okay, everypony laughed.” Said Sweetie Belle, becoming intrigued, “I wouldn’t keep thinking about it.”

Diamond finally looked at Sweetie Belle, there was confusion in her face and it was hard to tell in the dark, but Sweetie thought she saw a tear on Diamond’s cheek.

“That’s just it,” replied Diamond, “As I lay there, I couldn’t get your face out of my mind. I can’t stop thinking of, of....”

“Of what?”

“I can’t stop thinking of kissing you!” She said, rushing her words, she was having trouble looking Sweetie Belle in the eye, “when you suggested the game, I really wanted to get to kiss you. You’ve always been a good friend since we put the past behind us. You’re cute and I just feel so happy when you talk to me or laugh with me. I’m glad our desks at school are next to each other. When you aren’t looking, I watch you work, just to see the little smile you give when you figure out a problem. I think how much I’d like it if you gave me that smile.”

Diamond paused and looked away.

“See, you hate me.”

“Diamond,” said Sweetie, not sure how to continue, “I’m out here because I couldn’t sleep. I had you in mind when I suggested Spin the Bottle. I know it sounds silly, but I was even trying to figure how to cheat so I could get to kiss you. And I really enjoyed the kiss, and I can’t stop thinking about it, and you. I watch you at school too. When we’re on the playground, I’m really disappointed when I don’t get chosen to be on the same team as you. I don’t know if you notice at lunch, I try to sit by or across from you all the time. When I can’t, I don’t feel that hungry for my lunch. I’d rather watch you and listen to you than eating.”

Diamond looked back at Sweetie Belle, her face looked happy, she put her hoof on Sweetie’s then the two looked deep into each other’s eyes. Both sat back on their haunches, as close as they could to each other. Sweetie put a foreleg around Diamond’s neck they both leaned in, their lips met, their tongues exploring the other’s again. Diamond’s forelegs wrapped around Sweetie Belle, Sweetie Belle’s did the same.

The world vanished; they couldn’t tell if it was warm or cold outside. The only thing they felt was the warm filly they were holding and a hunger in their soul they’d never felt before.

They couldn’t tell if they’d been at it a few minutes or hours. But they broke the kiss, panting and sighing.

“Wow!” whispered Diamond.

“I felt it too,” said Sweetie Belle. “I don’t want to stop.”

“Me neither.”

They kissed again, perhaps not as long.

“We better go back inside before they catch us out here.” Said Sweetie Belle having trouble controlling her breathing.

“Do you think they’d make fun of us?” asked Diamond.

“No, but I don’t think I’m ready to deal with what others might ask. Our friends are trustworthy, but I don’t know if I want to answer questions I don’t understand right now.”

Diamond agreed, they kissed quickly once more and then the two went back inside stealthily. They placed their sleeping bags next to each other and on laying down, fluffed them up so nopony could see they were facing each other, happily holding hooves.

The next morning the girls were up early, after gathering their things they walked to the main house at Sweet Apple Acres. There Granny Smith had a breakfast of apple pancakes and fresh milk waiting for them. After thanking Granny for the breakfast and Applejack, Rarity and Big Mac for letting them stay. All but Apple Bloom headed out. Scootaloo flew off to her home at the Ponyville Children’s Home. One by one they dropped off until it was only Diamond and Sweetie. After the others had gone, the two walked as slow as possible, not wanting to rush away. They walked close enough that their flanks would touch, the contact felt nice.

“Diamond,” said Sweetie Belle, not sure what she really wanted to say, “I feel funny asking this, but if I don’t now, I don’t know if I could work up the nerve later.”

“Ask me what?”

“I’m not sure how this is done, but I’d really like it if you’d be my (mumbled)friend.”

“I am your friend,” said Diamond.

“No, I mean would you be my fillyfriend.”

“Oh!” said Diamond. “I want to say yes, I really do, but I need to think about it. You remember how my dad acted with Bon-Bon and Lyra, not to mention Twilight and Muffins or your sister and Applejack. I’d not be rushing home and announcing it, but I don’t want to be dishonest.”

Sweetie looked dejected.

“Oh Sweetie don’t, I’m not saying no. I really, really, really like you. I’d like nothing better to stop and kiss you some more,” Sweetie Belle perked her ears up some, “and I’m not saying I’d not like to go the movies with you, or have some sleepovers. But for right now, we need to think about it or at least think about how we are going to do this.”

“Okay,” said Sweetie Belle, “I can respect that. I guess we both need to think about this. Would you mind if I talked to Rarity about this. She can keep it a secret, and I’d feel a lot better talking to her instead of mom and dad.”

Diamond nodded, and then the two of them looked around to see if any pony was near, seeing the coast was clear. They exchanged, in their opinion, too small of a kiss.

CHAPTER TWO: Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle

After the girls had left, Apple Bloom cleared away all the dishes and went about her daily chores. Applejack watched and thought how big Apple Bloom was getting; she wasn’t just a little filly anymore. She was talking about going to a dance with a colt, and getting a new dress from Rarity. There was something bothering AJ. It was something which had been bothering her for a long time, and something which needed to have been said before. But it wasn’t easy and she wasn’t sure how Apple Bloom would take it, plus she wasn’t sure how to do it.

“What’s bothering you Darling?” said Rarity.

“What do you mean Sugar Cube?”

“You’ve been watching Apple Bloom like she was leaving or something.”

“I’ve put somethin’ off for far too long and I think it’s time to say somethin’ to Apple Bloom,” then she looked at her wife, “and to you.”

“What Darling?”

“It’s just with the dance comin’ up and Apple Bloom wantin’ to go with a colt. It’s bringin’ back things from the past that I’ve hidden.”

“If you’re afraid of some colt hurting her, I don’t think you’ve anything to fear. There isn’t a stallion in Equestria who’d dare cross you, that’s if they wanted to live afterward,” Rarity giggled, “I doubt any colt would think twice about hurting your sister.”

“There’s more to it than that.” Sighed AJ, “we haven’t talked about colts yet and I know they teach such things at school. Cheerilee is a good teacher, but there’s the personal side as well.

And, as I said, there’s somethin’ else.”

AJ walked off out the door. Rarity had learned to let AJ be when she got pensive like this.

“Oh Darling,” Rarity said to AJ, but knowing she couldn’t hear her, “It’ll be fine, what ever it is.”

Later, AJ asked Rarity if she’d help her to make a dinner of all of Apple Bloom’s favorites. She then asked Big Mac to look in the barn for a box containing certain photo albums.

Lastly, she and Granny Smith went into the old pony’s bedroom and talked behind closed doors for a couple hours. Rarity thought she heard crying and wasn’t able to tell if it was Applejack, Granny Smith or both.

Later that evening, Apple Bloom was treated to a dinner she’d not had the likes of in a long time. It looked like everything was cooked just for her. After, there was fresh ice-cream Big Mac had been churning all afternoon. Apple Bloom wasn’t yet cynical enough to be suspicious of being buttered up. To her surprise, Big Mac said he’d clear and wash the dishes. She, Applejack, Rarity and Granny Smith went in the family room to talk. Applejack had Apple Bloom sit in the middle of the couch with Rarity on one side and Granny Smith on the other. AJ then went to scoot a chair in front of them but Rarity moved it with her magic. It was nice to have a Unicorn around the house, and such a beautiful one at that. AJ looked flushed, and Granny Smith kept an eye on her.

“Apple Bloom, I guess you might be wonderin’ why we did the dinner we did and why Big Mac is doing your chores.”

“I don’t mind, he can do the dishes anytime he likes!” she said.

They all got a chuckle out of it.

“I bet Sugar Cube, but we need to talk ‘bout a couple o’ things, and with the dance comin’ up, I fig’erd it should be now.”

“I know ’bout boys sis, Miss Cheerilee gave a talk on all that. And you ain’t got anythin’ to worry ’bout. I’ve no plans for anythin’ like that.” Said Apple Bloom.

“We know you don’t. And we trust you, but that doesn’t mean somethin’ couldn’t happen.”

“Like what?” asked the filly.

AJ paused, fortifying her nerves.

“Do you know what happened to me when I was twelve?”

“You mean when you were hurt by a stallion?”

Granny Smith had a guilty pain cross her face.

“Yes, but do you know how he hurt me, what he did to me?”

“No, I don’t think you’ve ever said. You’ve only said for me to be careful and not to be alone around ponies I don’t know.”

“Sugar Cube,” said AJ not sure how to put it, “do you know what...

What rape is?”

Apple Bloom’s face went pale.

“No sis, he didn’t!”

“I’m ’fraid he did. Afterwards I couldn’t stand to be near any colt, other than Big Mac for a very long time.”

“Is that why you married a mare?”

“No, I didn’t marry a mare. I married Rarity, and I married her because I love her, not because she’s a mare,” said AJ.

Rarity smiled, AJ continued;

“But it’s why I never went out with colts.”

“Don’t worry sis, I’ll be careful.”

“We know you’ll be careful, we’ve no doubts. But there’s more to this than a warnin’ to be careful."

AJ took a deep breath.

“I know you’ve no memory of ma and pa. They were gone before you could remember. But what do you know about ’em, how they died.”

“I’m... I’m not sure.”

Granny Smith placed a photo album in Apple Blooms lap. She’d seen the album before but not for a while. They leafed through the pages of all the family photos. It was obvious she wasn’t in any of them. Toward the back there was a carefully preserved clipping from the Ponyville Express telling how the old Ponyville Bridge collapsed while Bright Mac and Buttercup Apple were pulling a wagon load of apples to market. The couple was killed in the cold swift water as the wagon crashed down on them. Apple Bloom noticed the tears in AJ’s and Granny Smith’s eyes.

“We’ve another album to show you, I know you’ve not seen this ’en before.”

Granny put another album on top of the other. There were pictures of a young Applejack.

Rarity saw it right away and gasped at the realization. ‘That explains the breasts,’ thought Rarity.

Apple Bloom leafed through a few pages; she couldn’t help but giggle.

“Hey sis, you were a butterball when you were little!”

There was a pause.

“I wasn’t fat.” Said Applejack quietly, and then turned away.

Apple Bloom looked confused.

“What do you mean?”

“Look at the news clippin’ again.” Granny Smith said as she lifted the album to expose the other

“Yeah, what about it?”

“Look at the date.”

Apple Bloom looked at the clipping, and then she looked again. It looked like she was doing the math.

“Yes Honey, that was sixteen years ago.” Said Granny.

“But I’m only fourteen!”

Granny Smith lay the other album down and turned to another page further back. There was the young Applejack, propped up and sitting on a hospital bed. In one shot she was cuddling a little foal, and another showed her smiling and holding the foal up for the camera, there was a shot of Applejack lying on her side, nursing the infant.

Granny then turned to the back page.

There was a birth certificate. The date was Apple Bloom’s birthday, the mother’s name was Applejack Apple, the father’s name was blank. But the real shocker was the name of the infant:

Apple Blossom Apple

Apple Bloom looked at Applejack. Tears were streaming from AJ’s eyes. Rarity had reached out a put a hoof on her wife’s leg.

“What are you tryin’ to say sis? Who’s the foal? Who’s Apple Blossom?” Asked Apple Bloom, not sure if she wanted to hear the answer.

“The foal is you Apple Bloom,” Applejack was trying not to ‘lose it’ long enough to finish what she was saying.

“Oh dear Apple Bloom, I’m not your sister...

I’m your mother.

And your name isn’t really Apple Bloom, it’s Apple Blossom. Apple Bloom was like a nickname and it kind o’ stuck. ”

There was a stunned silence as Apple Bloom let it sink in.

“But why am I only hearin’ this now! What else is a lie?

My name ain’t my name! My sister ain’t my sister; she’s my mother! I suppose Granny Smith ain’t my granny, but my great-granny and my brother is my uncle!

Do I even belong to this family? Am I really an Apple or am I just named that because you didn’t know what to name me. I’m really somepony else? Just the unwanted kid of a rape victim and some unknown pony!”

Apple Bloom wasn’t sure if she needed to be hurt, excited, confused, thrilled or ashamed. Applejack broke down crying harder than Apple Bloom ever saw her cry.

“Sweetie, you were never unwanted,” said Granny Smith. “And you’re an Apple, don’t ever think you ain’t. And it doesn’t matter if we’re your mother, uncle and great-granny. We’re still the same family that has always loved you, the real you.”

“And your sister, oh sorry, your mother was only twelve. She wasn’t much more than a foal herself. To place all the responsibility of raising a young’en on her was more than she’d have been able to do. Plus we didn’t want ponies thinkin’ anythin’ bad ’bout her, like she was a bad pony and it was her fault. So I decided we should just let ponies think, and you too, she was just your big sister.”

“But why didn’t you tell me before?”

“Apple Bloom,” said Rarity, “I’ve known your sister, or your mother that is, since we were little foals. This is the first I’ve heard of this. I do remember when everypony thought she was just a fat little filly.

But I also can’t think of a time when Applejack didn’t take care of you, play with you and protect you. She raised you as well as any mother could, the title is just extra credit. I’ve always known she loves you dearly, I only now know the depth. Don’t judge her too hard. Sweetie Belle has always been envious of your relationship with Applejack. I realize now there was no way I could’ve ever competed.”

Apple Bloom sat there trying to take it all in. Applejack got up and walked to the window and looked out. Rarity walked over to her, placed a foreleg over her shoulders and laid her head against her neck. You could still hear the sobs.

Apple Bloom looked at the album again, Granny turned the page, there were pictures of Applejack and herself doing all kinds of activities. Applejack was feeding her, bathing her, changing her diapers, rocking her to sleep and just playing with her. Apple Bloom thought hard, she couldn’t think of one thing a mother would do that Apple Bloom didn’t see in these pictures. She thought back, she couldn’t think of one time Applejack wasn’t there for her.

Apple Bloom looked up at Applejack, her own tears were starting to flow, and her heart was pounding with new excitement and realization that she now had something she’d never thought she’d have before. Apple Bloom handed the albums to Granny as she got up and walked over to AJ.

“I wish I knew ’bout this sooner. But lookin’ at all those pictures and ’memberin’ back as far as I can,” Apple Bloom paused, AJ’s eyes were locked in Apple Bloom’s. “I don’t think I could be prouder to have been raised by anypony else.”

Then choking back a sob;

“Thank you...

Mama.”

AJ grabbed Apple Bloom and hugged her so hard that Apple Bloom thought she’d suffocate.

“My darlin’, darlin’ baby, I couldn’t be prouder of you! I’ve wanted to be your mother for such a long, long time. Forgive my weakness, forgive my cowardice, forgive me, my darlin’, beautiful daughter.”

Rarity joined the hug; Apple Bloom threw a foreleg around Rarity as well.

“I’m so lucky,’ said the filly, tears of joy streaming from her eyes, “this mornin’ I was an orphan, tonight, I have two mothers!”

Apple Bloom woke up warm and happy, it’d been years since a bad dream or a storm had made her crawl in the bed with Applejack. Now with Applejack and Rarity being married, Applejack’s bedroom was understandably off-limits. But this night, the rules had been set aside. Apple Bloom felt the warmth of a pony on either side of her, forelegs holding her from both sides. She opened her eyes and saw the both Rarity and Applejack were awake, just looking at her.

“Good morning sleepy-head” said Rarity.

“Good mornin’ precious,” said Applejack.

“Awww, are we goin’a get mushy now?” giggled Apple Bloom.

“I’ve years to make up for,” said AJ. “Give me this for now.”

“I was only kiddin’,” said Apple Bloom, “I’ve always loved you. But now I’ve reason to love you more. I’m so excited to now have a mother, and one who’s been my best friend all my life.”

Both AJ and Rarity kissed Apple Bloom on each cheek.

“So, is this goin’ to be just between us, or can I tell my friends?”

“You can tell the world if you wish,” said AJ. “We can go by Twilight’s after school and send a letter to Princess Celestia if’n you want.”

“Oh No!” exclaimed Apple Bloom.

“What’s wrong, Sugar Cube? Don’t you want to tell the princess.”

“No, it’s not that! There’s another pony who ain’t who I thought!” exclaimed Apple Bloom.

“Who’s that Darling,” said Rarity.

“Sweetie Belle; she's no longer my sister. She’s my aunt! And I’m a few weeks older that she is.”

They all laughed.

“I think we should get up and get started.” Said Rarity; “this would be too easy to get use to.”

“Applejack... Oops… I mean Mama...” stammered Apple Bloom.

“It’s alright, it’s goin’a take some time for all of us to get use to this.”

“Okay, but I was goin’a ask, what do I call Rarity? She’s my Mama too, now.”

“Darling, call me what you want. I didn’t think I was ever going to be a mother at anytime.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m so in love with the idea of having a daughter. And I can’t think of any better daughter to have.”

AJ and Rarity kissed Apple Bloom’s cheeks again.

“Oh moms!”

They all laughed.

“’kay, time to get up and get ready for school.” Said AJ, “and now you really do have to do as I tell you.”

“No problem Mama, I do have a question. Now you two are my mothers, is it alright if’n I move in with you?” Asked Apple Bloom with an honest plea in her eyes. “I’ve years to make up for too.”

AJ looked at Rarity. Rarity only smiled and nodded her head.

“Sugar Cube,” said AJ, “we’d love to have our daughter move in with us. When we’re at the cottage that is, at the farm, you’re already here.”

“I love my Mamas so, so much!” said Apple Bloom giving AJ and Rarity a kiss on the cheek.

The rest of the morning was full of laughter.

Apple Bloom wanted to wait to tell her friends before the rest of the kids at school. She’d asked them to meet later at the clubhouse so they could talk.

Sweetie Belle said she’d come by early to so she could talk to Rarity about an important matter.

Sweetie Belle put her books and saddlebag away quickly. She was looking forward to going to the clubhouse. Diamond Tiara was going to be there and maybe she’d be able to walk her home.

Sweetie was headed to the door and called out;

“I’ll be back later! Going to Apple Bloom’s!”

“Well, try to be home in time for dinner.”

“Okay mom, I’ll try!” Sweetie Belle had no intention of hurrying home if she could spend even a few moments alone with Diamond Tiara.

It’d been so hard in class not to just sit and look at Diamond. But when she did, she’d see Diamond looking at her. They exchanged smiles and turned back to their work. They had to try hard not to be obvious at recess and lunch. They wanted to be alone together, but their friends would’ve known something was up if they didn’t hang out with them.

Now she was rushing to Sweet Apple Acres to see Rarity. Rarity had been spending a lot of time there lately. It was between fashion seasons and during these times she and Applejack would stay at the farm so AJ could be closer to her work, when not at the boutique, Rarity liked just being a housewife for Applejack.

When she arrived at Sweet Apple Acres, she went right in. She was family and was told she didn’t have to knock, Applejack saw her enter.

“Hello Sugar Cube,” said Applejack, she turned and called up the stairs, “Apple Bloom! Sweetie Belle’s here!”

Before she could tell AJ she was there to see Rarity, Apple Bloom called out something which made her pause.

“’kay Mama! Tell her I’ll be right there!”

“Mama?” asked Sweetie Belle looking at AJ.

“I think Apple Bloom has somethin’ to tell you.” Said AJ with a smile.

“I think so,” said Sweetie.

Just then Rarity walked in the room.

“I actually came to talk to Rarity, if she has some time.”

“I always have time for you, Sweetie Belle.”

“Can we talk somewhere private?”

“Okay,” said Rarity, then turning to her wife, “is it okay if we talk in our bedroom, Darling?”

“It’s your bedroom too.”

“Thank you Dear,” said Rarity, and then she gave AJ a little kiss. “Come up with me Sweetie.”

Apple Bloom met them on the stair.

“I’ll be at the clubhouse in a bit,” said Sweetie, “I need to talk to Rarity about an important matter.”

Rarity perked her ears up at that. They walked to the bedroom, entered and Sweetie Belle closed the door after them.

They sat on the edge of the bed and Rarity looked at her sister to let her know she had her complete attention.

“So what’s this ‘important matter’?”

“Rarity, this isn’t easy for me and I figured it’d be easier to ask you than mom and dad.”

“Is this about the dance? You’ve questions about boys and how to act?”

“Kind of, but not quite,” said Sweetie, “it’s kind of personal, for me and I guess you too. So I’ll just come out and ask, and don’t take it wrong;

But with you and Applejack, how is a mare being in love with a mare different than being in love with a stallion?”

“Are you asking about feelings? Or lifestyle? Or the physical side?”

“Yes,” said Sweetie Belle, “all of that.”

“Well,” started Rarity, swallowing hard, “as far as feelings, love is love. There’s no difference. Some ponies never understand that. But to love a pony is to love a pony.

Yes there’re ponies that look for relationships between the same gender simply because they’re the same gender. Lyra and Bon-Bon Heartstrings might be such ponies. And there isn’t anything wrong with that; it’s their choice. Applejack and I are different; we love each other for who the other pony is not what they are. The same can be said about Twilight and Muffins Sparkle. Rainbow and Pinkie Dash are a different story. Rainbow might be the first kind of pony; Pinkie is kind of neither. But they love each other all the same.

Lifestyle, of course, takes a little getting use to. There’re still some ponies who don’t approve, and would try to make things hard on us. But it’s my choice and if I love Applejack, its just part of the relationship to deal with any issues which might come up.

As far as the physical side...”

Rarity paused to collect her thought as to how to put it delicately, but glancing at her sister, she noticed a look in her eyes. Rarity could tell that there was more to this than just curiosity.

“This isn’t about Applejack and me, is it?”

Sweetie looked at the floor; she was blushing a bit. A curse that Rarity suffered from for having a very light coat color.

“I was sitting in class during study time, I heard some of the fillies talking about colts. They were talking about the differences between mares and stallions.

We’d just had a lecture about how evolution had, at the same time ponies became intelligent; their anatomies had changed. Unlike lower animals, the genitalia had become not as obvious. The fillies were talking about colts and how it kind of excited them talking about it. I started to become concerned because I didn’t see the reason for the excitement. I just couldn’t see what the big deal was; I was almost revolted with all their talk of colt’s ‘things’.

Yes, I do think some colts are cute, and some are good friend. However, I’ve never thought of any of them as ‘desirable’, either anatomy or personality wise.

But I’ve never, in any way, been drawn to fillies either,” Sweetie said pausing, “in general.”

“In general?” asked the big sister.

It was Sweetie Belle’s turn to swallow hard; she paused and decided to just come out with it.

“At the sleepover the other night, we were talking about the dance coming up. We started getting silly and it was brought up things which could happen. Kissing was brought up and everypony was talking about if they’d kissed anypony before. The most was just some little peck on the lips like silly little fillies might do. Then Silver Spoon asked if anypony had done a tongue kiss, nopony had. I mentioned how you told me about you and your friends practicing kissing with the Spin the Bottle game.”

Rarity blushed a little, but she figured she and her friends were about the same age when she’d first played the game.

“I happened to be last and the only other pony was Diamond Tiara, and I was glad, I was actually hoping for that. When we kissed,” Sweetie started to blush, “I really liked it. Not the kissing as much as kissing Diamond Tiara.

After everypony had gone to sleep, I could only lay there thinking of Diamond, so I went out on the porch of the clubhouse to think about it. As it turned out, Diamond Tiara couldn’t sleep either. We talked about what we felt. It turned out that we felt the same. I don’t think we intended to, but we started kissing again, this time without other ponies watching, it was a good long kiss, several kisses actually. We knew we couldn’t just sit out there all night so we turned in, but we hid the fact we went to sleep holding hooves. After the sleepover, I walked Diamond home. I asked her if she’d be my fillyfriend.”

Rarity didn’t know what to say, she knew that her sister was getting older and it was healthy to be exploring relationships. And she certainly had no right to say anything about her sister liking another filly.

This was indeed had been a couple days for revelations.

“Sweetie Belle, are you sure about this? I want to know up front if this choice is because of my relationship with Applejack?” asked Rarity.

“No sis, I think I’ve felt this way about Diamond for a long time, even when she and Silver Spoon used to give us a hard time.” Said the filly, “I was always so disappointed because I felt Diamond could be a nice pony and I thought that I could really like her. I guess I was starting to have feelings for her then.”

“I see,” said Rarity, “I’m glad to hear it, but you do remember what trouble Diamond’s dad tried to make when you all got in that fight and were suspended. Are you ready for ponies to stick labels on you like ‘mare-lover’?”

“I know all this, and she knows it too. It’s just that I think...” Sweetie Belle mumbled something.

“You think what, Darling?”

“I think I’m in love with her.”

Rarity sat back. She’d always tried to be open about love. She had, in the past, never given into the idea the there was an age limit to when you could feel real love for a pony. To her, a filly Sweetie Belle’s age was as capable of feeling true love for a pony just as one Granny Smith’s age. But it was hard not to cloud the issue because it was her ‘little’ sister. And she was starting to feel like a big hypocrite when she put into the equation that her little sister was talking about loving another filly.

“Now, when I think of Diamond,” Sweetie said starting to blush ever brighter, “when I remember seeing her and with a flick of her tail I see her… “Down there’, I start feeling the way the fillies did when they were talking about colt’s ‘things’. My ‘down there’ feels funny.

No other filly gives me this same felling; I don’t even pay attention to them.

Am I a freak or some kind of morally sick pony? Am I a mare-lover?”

Sweetie paused again, Rarity was seeing that her sister was fighting back tears. Then she asked;

“Did you have feelings for mares before you and Applejack got together?”

“No Sweetie, I’d only went out with stallions. And before you ask, I did have sex with some of them in the past, and I had, for the most part, enjoyed it. At that time I can’t think of a time I ever wanted to be intimate with any mare.

However, Applejack and I would bicker all the time; it turned out our bickering was a way for us to interact without having to accept the feelings we were having for each other. But then I started to realize I had feeling for Applejack, deep feelings. You see, she was feeling the same for me.

Applejack had, shall I say, only one experience with sex before. It was when she was young, and it was a very bad experience. From that time she’d nothing to do with sex at all.

I’ll say that when we confessed our true feelings for each other, the thought of pleasing her became important, I’d never wanted to be intimate with a mare before, and it wasn’t about being intimate with a mare. It was about being intimate with a pony I’d come to realize I was truly in love with. At that point, it wasn’t about having sex, it was expressing my fillings for her by wanting to please her and show her happiness and wellbeing was very important to me, and she did reciprocate.

I’d not worry about you thinking you’re a mare-lover. Like me, you’re drawn to a female, not because you like to check out females, but you’re drawn physically to a pony you care for. I’d be surprised if you’d have come to me to tell me you loved Diamond Tiara but you didn’t want to be with her, intimately.”

Rarity paused to collect the thoughts.

“Sweetie Belle, I’m glad you did come to me about this. Not that I don’t think mother and father wouldn’t understand.

And don’t let anypony tell you your feelings are sick or demented. As I said earlier, love is love, and if you love somepony it’s only normal to be attracted to them physically, and want to please and be pleased by them, that’s part of what love is about.

But you truly need to think about this, not only how it’ll affect you but also her. If you do get into a relationship, it’s no longer only about you.

Just remember that there’ll always be another pony’s feelings and wellbeing to consider.

And don’t worry about being thought freakish or morally sick, even if you were a mare-lover. It’d be your choice; you don’t have to live up to other ponies’ standards.

What did Diamond Tiara say to you asking her to be your fillyfriend?”

“She had to think about it because she wasn't sure how to manage any issues that may arise with her friends and family, but she made sure to tell me she wasn't saying no either."

“Sweetie, what ever happens, I’m happy for you if you’re happy, and I’ll always be there for you.”

“Is that what Rainbow Dash means when she says mare-lovers should stick together?”

They both laughed.

“Thanks sis,” said Sweetie, then getting a mischievous gleam in her eyes;

“So....

Tell me about sex with another girl. How does that work?”

“Sweetie Belle! A lady doesn’t talk about such things with a filly,” Rarity said in her ‘proper’ voice, then she winked at Sweetie, “but if it ever does become an issue, we’ll have that talk, I promise. And I don’t think mother and father would be of much use on that issue. But for now I think kissing is enough for you to worry about.”

“I was just pulling your leg sis, and thanks. Don’t tell anypony yet, okay?’

“You mean I can’t submit it to the Foal Free Press like you did my diary?”

They got up and left the room laughing. But Rarity thought that she needed to see Twilight and ask about some books, for herself and for Sweetie Belle.

CHAPTER THREE: Scootaloo and Diamond Tiara

Diamond Tiara was walking with Silver Spoon to Sweet Apple Acres and the clubhouse. Apple Bloom said she had something important to say and she wanted everypony there. Diamond was disappointed when she went by Sweetie Belle’s home and found she’d already left. It did, however, give her a chance to talk to Silver Spoon about her and Sweetie Belle. Silver was her oldest friend, and for a long time had been her only friend.

“Silver, I need to tell somepony something. And you’re the only pony I can trust to talk to about this.”

“I’m glad you feel that way. You can tell me anything, you know that.”

“I do, but this isn’t easy and I need to get it out.”

“Okay,” said Silver Spoon hesitantly.

“Silver, I think... No, I’m pretty sure I’m in love.”

“Hey! That’s great! I’m so happy for you. Who is he?”

Diamond gave a strange look at her friend, and took a deep breath.

“It’s Sweetie Belle.”

Silver stopped in her tracks, and then burst out laughing.

“Good one Diamond! You had me going there for a second,” but she saw the look on Diamond’s face. “Wait! You’re serious! But Sweetie Belle is a filly! Your father is going to flip!”

“I know,” said Diamond, “but this isn’t a crush, I truly think I’m in love.”

“What does Sweetie Belle say?”

“She asked me to be her fillyfriend.”

“As your friend, I’m so happy for you. And you know you can count on me to keep my muzzle shut. But you’re going to have to be very careful.” Silver paused, “What did you tell Sweetie Belle?”

“I said I’d have to think about it.”

“That’s good, but you want to say yes, don’t you? I can tell.”

Diamond looked like she was on the edge of tears.

“Silver, I can’t stop thinking of her, ever since we kissed....”

“It was just a game.”

“No, I couldn’t sleep after everypony went to bed. I went out on the porch, as it turned out, Sweetie couldn’t sleep either. We talked for a while and found we felt the same about the kiss and each other. We ended up kissing some more, much more than when everypony was watching. We’ve kissed every chance we could get since then.

You must think I’m some idiot or a freak.”

“No, as I said, I’m happy for you, I truly am. Sweetie Belle is a very nice pony, and I guess she’s kind of cute too. I think I’d rather see you going out with a nice filly like Sweetie Belle than some mean jerk of a colt (Diamond smiled). I’ll do anything to help, I promise.”

“Thank you Silver,” said Diamond hugging her friend, “I knew you’d understand.”

“Don’t mention it.” Said Silver, “besides, it leaves more colts for me!”

They both laughed as they walked on.

Scootaloo was flying to meet her friends, but first she’d an important and heartbreaking stop to make. It turned out Rainbow and Pinkie’s cloud house was on the way to Sweet Apple Acres at this time. Scootaloo was getting to be an accomplished flyer thanks to Rainbow’s lessons. Ever since the camping trip, Rainbow had tried to show as much attention to Scoot as she could, and Scoot was responding by being a great student and friend.

Scootaloo lined up on the approach as Rainbow had taught her. Then right at the threshold she flared out and beat her wings to a hover and lightly touched down. Going to the door, she rang the bell.

Rainbow opened the door and gave a slight look of surprise.

“Hey Squirt!” said Rainbow, still using the nickname she’d given Scoot as a little filly, “did we have a lesson today?”

“No Rainbow, I came by to tell you and Pinkie something. I was on my way to Sweet Apple Acres, so I thought I’d stop on my way.”

“Come in then, Pink just made some cookies, if she hasn’t eaten them all by now, maybe she’ll give you some.”

They both laughed as they entered.

“Have a seat Squirt, I’ll get Pink.”

Rainbow went back to the kitchen and came back soon accompanied by Pinkie. Pinkie had a plate of cookies and a glass of milk; she levitated them to Scootaloo. After these years, it was still strange to see Pinkie using magic.

“So good to see you Scootaloo,” said Pinkie, “Dashie said you needed to tell us something?”

Scootaloo was sitting on her haunches, the plate of cookies and glass of milk on the floor between her legs. She nibbled at one of the delicious cookies. She couldn’t help thinking how she was going to miss Pinkie’s treats.

“I was told today, when I got to the Home, because I’ll be graduating next month and going to High School, I’ll be relocated to a Home for older kids.” Rainbow saw the tear in Scootaloo’s eye, “in Cloudsdale.”

“Are you serious Scootaloo? Of course you are, dumb question!” Said Rainbow trying to think of the right things to say. “When?”

“I was told I needed to start getting my things together and packing away what I don’t need right now. The next day after graduation they’ll be sending me to the new Home in Cloudsdale. They said a Pegasus should go to school with other Pegasi and learn more about Pegasus culture.”

Scootaloo got up, she was trying hard not to be un-cool in front of her hero, but the tears were starting to come anyway.

“I need to get to Sweet Apple Acres, but I wanted to tell you first.”

“It’s still a month off kid,” said Rainbow, “a lot can happen.”

“I know, but just in case, I wanted to tell you both how much I appreciate what you’ve done for me. Thank you.”

Scoot walked to the door. Rainbow joined her there; she put a wing over her and gave a hug.

“Don’t worry about it yet Squirt,” said Rainbow, “we have time.”

Scootaloo smiled waved at Pinkie who was standing there misty-eyed. Then she leapt into the air and flew off toward Sweet Apple Acres.

“Dashie, we can’t let that happen.”

“I agree, but how?” asked Rainbow.

“We need to see Twilight, she’ll know. And Muffins grew up in one of those Homes; she’ll have an idea as well.”

All the girls were the clubhouse except Apple Bloom. Silver Spoon noticed how much Diamond’s eyes lit up when Sweetie Belle came in. She also noticed Sweetie’s expression when she saw Diamond. She could definitely tell something was there.

Scootaloo had come in earlier. She wasn’t looking very happy. Dinky took her aside and was talking to her.

Sweetie walked over to Diamond and Silver. Silver could tell Sweetie was being very careful not to give anything away. The three of them stood apart.

“Sweetie, it’s okay, I had to talk to somepony and Silver is trustworthy to keep a secret. She knows everything,” said Diamond quietly.

Silver Spoon smiled at Sweetie Belle.

“I think it’s cool and I’m so glad for the both of you.”

“Thank you Silver,” said Sweetie, “and I know I can trust you. I just talked to my sister and she said she’s happy for us as well.”

Diamond and Sweetie just stood there looking in each other’s eyes. Silver just stood there smiling.

Just then Apple Bloom came in all excited.

“Girls! Girls! I’ve a very special announcement!”

They all looked at Apple Bloom.

“I found out my mother is alive!”

All the girls cheered and hugged Apple Bloom.

“Where is she?” asked Scootaloo, “I’m so jealous!”

“She’s right here,” said Apple Bloom, “come in Mama!”

Sweetie Belle all of the sudden understood why she heard what she did back in Apple Bloom’s house when Applejack came into the clubhouse. She was looking very sheepish.

“Apple Bloom, that’s your sister,” said Scootaloo.

“No girls, I really am Apple Bloom’s mother. I’m sorry I’ve hid it for so long, but I was younger then you gals when it happened.”

They girls looked at Apple Bloom and then at Applejack, then each other. Smiles and cheers broke out and they all rushed to hug AJ and Apple Bloom.

There were tears in Apple Bloom’s eyes.

“I’m so lucky to have such a great mama!”

“You don’t know how lucky you are!” said Scoot, her tears returning.

Scoot walked to the door and flew off.

Everypony looked confused.

“Scootaloo just told me,” explained Dinky, “when school’s out, she’s being moved to another Children’s Home in Cloudsdale.”

“No way!” said Apple Bloom. “I guess my announcement couldn’t have come at a worse time for her.”

“Hey Diamond,” said Dinky, “your father is on the board at the Ponyville Children’s Home, could he do something to help Scoot?”

“I’ll talk to him,” said Diamond, glad to have something other than the other issue to take her mind off it around her father.

“Apple Bloom,” said AJ, “we’re going to see Twilight anyway; maybe she’ll have some ideas.”

They all left the clubhouse; Dinky walked with AJ and Apple Bloom since they were going to her home anyway. Silver Spoon, Diamond Tiara and Sweetie Belle walked together to their homes. Although Silver made an excuse of having to pick something up at Sugarcube Corner and giggled as she took off leaving Diamond and Sweetie to walk alone.

CHAPTER FOUR: Flashback To Dawn

Four(ish) years earlier;

“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.

“Isn’t that how you got in this mess in the first place?” said a familiar voice.

Twilight and Muffins broke the kiss and looked. There stood Princesses Celestia and Luna. It was Luna that’d spoken.

“Your Highnesses!” said Twilight.

“My most beloved Twilight,” said Celestia, “here also isn't the place for court games. We’re here as your aunt-in-laws.”

“Just aunt-in-laws that the nurses can’t say no to,” said Luna with a smile and wink.

“When she’s finished, Muffins My Dear, may Luna and I see her?” asked Celestia.

Twilight had never heard Celestia ever speak so casual and familiar. Twilight hadn’t put thought to the fact when her brother married Cadence, the two ruling princesses were now technically family.

It was only a few moments until the newborn foal was satisfied. Muffins held out the infant. Celestia’s golden aura surrounded the baby and lifted her out of her mother’s forelegs and brought her close. Luna’s aura folded back the blanket to get a better view. The two princesses stood there in rapt admiration and awe.

The infant opened her eyes and beheld the two Alicorns before her. She smiled as if in recognition. Luna and Celestia looked at each other and nodded.

“She knows already,” said Celestia quiet enough for only her sister to hear. “The time is coming.”

“I’m glad,” whispered Luna, “I’m starting to get tired.”

“As am I,” whispered Celestia, “we’ll start Twilight’s real training soon. A ghost from the past would be a good start. And perhaps the near loss of a close friend?”

“Yes, perhaps connect the two,” said Luna. “I’ll start Dawn’s training as soon as I can.”

Luna reached her hoof up and tickled the infant under the chin. Both Dawn and Luna laughed.

“What a beautiful foal,” said Celestia to Twilight and Muffins. “We look forward to assisting you with her in anyway. As I mentioned in the delivery room, with a natural born Alicorn, there’ll be special needs.”

Celestia levitated the child back to her parents.

“My sister and I’ll let you rest and bond.” Said Luna, “feel free to go back to kissing.”

Muffins and Twilight didn’t have to be told twice.

Both of the princesses chuckled as they left the room.

In the hall, out of earshot, Luna turned to address her sister.

“It was a gamble, but it worked,” said Luna.

“Yes,” said Celestia, “if Applejack and Rarity had indulged in Unicorn Horn Sex their wedding night, we might’ve had competing princesses.”

“I remember how messy that can get,” said Luna, “after all these centuries, I still have a scar.”

“Luckily, we don’t have to worry about it,” said Celestia.

“And who’d have thought a Princess of the Night would be named for the dawn?”

Several days later, Twilight, Muffins and Dawn were home. Cookie and Sparkler were making a constant fuss over the foal. Neither could seem to get enough of her.

Coincidentally, at this time Cookie’s magic started to truly manifest itself. Between Sparkler, Cookie and Twilight, Muffins had to be very aware of her surroundings. Otherwise she might get a bottle, a blanket or worse, a dirty diaper to the head. Muffins shouted after one such diaper just missed her muzzle:

“Family! All this magic! Have pity on a poor Pegasus who can’t even manage a card trick!”

Everypony laughed but they got the message and established a ‘no fly zone’ when Mama M was in the room.

Their friends had given them time to settle in, but after about a week, there were visits all the time.

AJ and Rarity would come by bringing food to help ease Muffins workload. Or so they said. Rarity would hold Dawn, her face showing a wrapped sense of wonder, she’d then hand AJ the infant. All were surprised at the gentleness the rough farm pony showed when handling the baby. Her face was a mix of wonder, pride and an odd touch of sadness.

After one such visit, Rarity found AJ laying on their bed, AJ avoided admitting that she’d been crying, but the pillow was stained with tears. It wasn’t until a few years later when Rarity found out about Apple Bloom actually being Applejack’s daughter. Rarity understood the reason why the fact was hidden.

Cookie asked for and was given permission to bring her fellow Cutie Mark Crusaders to see her new little sister. With direct supervision, the girls were allowed to hold the precious infant.

“Oh wow!” said Scootaloo, “I’ve never seen a pony with wings and a horn other than princesses. Is she a princess?”

“She’s an Alicorn,” said Muffins, “the princesses are Alicorns, but to be an Alicorn doesn’t necessarily make a pony a princess or the other way around.”

“Well she’s as pretty as a princess!” said Sweetie Belle.

“I agree,” said Apple Bloom, “I don’t think I’ve ever seen a foal as pretty.”

“Thank you girls,” said Twilight.

“I’ve a favor to ask, Mrs. Sparkle,” said Sweetie Belle.

“What’s that Sweetie?” asked Muffins.

“Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon heard us talking about coming over to see Dawn,” said Sweetie. “Diamond asked me, if they behaved, would it be okay for them to see her as well?”

“I thought you girls didn’t get along,” said Twilight.

“Well, they’ve been a lot more friendly since you helped Diamond from being expelled.” Said Sweetie with a smile, “in fact they hang out with us from time to time.”

“Of course Sweetie,” said Twilight, “any friends of yours are welcome.”

Sweetie went to the door and waved for the two fillies to come in. Twilight didn’t have much exposure to Diamond and Silver. Her first impression was they appeared to be a couple of snooty little fillies. Perhaps she was a little prejudiced from some of the things Cookie had reported in the past.

But here they stood, very reserved and respectful. As she was allowed to hold Dawn, Diamond’s face expanded into a great grin.

“I never get to hold my brother,” said Diamond. “Daddy says I’m too young.”

Diamond looked at Sweetie Belle who gave her a large smile of her own.

Twilight noticed the smile and made a mental note.

Since Pinkie had moved in with Rainbow, the two were seen together most of the time.

Pinkie who loved children (perhaps because in many ways she was just a big kid herself) was always thrilled to just make funny faces or blow raspberries on they little foal’s tummy. Any laugh given by Dawn was better than a bag full of bits to the pink pony.

Rainbow, who was loath to admit fear, was always skittish when she held Dawn.

Rainbow related it was taught when she was growing up, in the past when Pegasi were warrior tribes, the few Alicorns that’d come forth were treated like gods, it was still part of their collective psyche. That’s why so many of the royal guard are Pegasi.

Fluttershy would stop by with her coltfriend, AJ’s cousin Caramel. Fluttershy didn’t exhibit any of the apprehension Rainbow showed, perhaps Pegasus culture wasn’t so deeply ingrained in her. The two would sit on a sofa for hours passing the foal between them, they’d speak to each other in low voices and smile a lot.

The child was somewhat of a celebrity when Muffins and Twilight went out, even among the ones who didn’t know the special origin of the foal. She was Ponyville’s little Alicorn filly. And there were very few ponies that’d not stop to see the child. Especially the mares, and there were a lot of mares.

This was due to the fact that at this time in Equestria, there were estimated nine to ten mares for every one stallion. It was an ideal situation for the single colt. But it was the biggest reason two mares together were becoming widely accepted, although still not the normal practice.

CHAPTER FIVE: At the Library

Back in the present:

When Muffins was ‘in the mood’, Twilight found any reason to please her. Muffins had just pleased Twilight, now she was on her back, with her tail and hind legs hanging over the end of the bed. Twilight was on her haunches, forelegs supporting Muffins flanks, doing what she liked to do best. In about five years she’d gone from an innocent, studious, book-worm virgin to an accomplished love-maker who delighted in pleasing her wife, especially orally.

Muffins knew how lucky she was, she often kidded it was the best of situations. Twilight had known nothing about sex, other than what she’d read in her books. Muffins had trained Twilight into a lover who knew nothing other than how to please and be pleased by her. They two were perfectly happy with that. When the situation with Rainbow and Pinkie happened, it expanded to include their lovers as well. But Twilight’s main focus was always Muffins, despite her love for Pinkie and especially Rainbow.

Twilight was the greatest student alive in Equestria. This spanned all knowledge from magic to math to literature. But Muffins was most please with how much Twilight had learned in making love to her. Twilight bragged that she knew at least twenty ways of licking Muffins clitoris. From the way that’d bring maximum orgasm in the shortest amount of time when in a rush, to keeping her up and going, on the edge ALL night.

Muffins knew she was truly blessed and made sure she let Twilight know she appreciated it. There was never anypony who loved a pony like she loved Twilight. And it could be argued that Twilight loved her the same. If you needed proof, there was their precocious little four-year-old Alicorn filly. Dawn was the product of two mares; it was magic and a miracle. But the magic was the magic of their limitless love for each other.

“OH! T W I L I G H T!!!!!” cried Muffins shuddering as the orgasm washed over her like waves on the ocean.

Twilight kept at it until her wife was utterly spent. Then Twilight leapt on the bed and kissed Muffins wildly.

Muffins was about to make one of her trademark quips which always brought a smile to her wife when they heard the bell that rang when the door downstairs opened.

“Finished just in time!” They both giggled.

They hurried to the stair in time...

To be mortified.

Dinky, Rarity, Applejack and Apple Bloom had walked into the library. Twilight and Muffins heard Rarity talking to somepony. They realized it was Dawn. Somehow Dawn had gotten out of her room and made it down stairs without them knowing it… Again.

Applejack, Rarity and Apple Bloom had gone to the library to let Twilight and Muffins in on the news about AJ and Apple Bloom. Dinky had walked home with them.

Rarity had also come to the library to find some books to share with Sweetie Belle and Diamond Tiara. It wasn’t she wanted Sweetie Belle to start having sex with Diamond Tiara, but they did need to know even with having sex between two females, there were still risks.

On entering the library, they found Dawn sitting on the floor, playing with Twilight’s old Smarty-Pants doll.

“Hellwo Auntie Wawity, hellwo Auntie Appuejack! Hellwo sissy!” said Dawn with the kind of honest smile only a child could give when truly happy to see you.

“Hello Dawn, are you having fun playing with your doll?” asked Rarity.

“Yes ma’am,” she replied. “I love my dolly.”

“I’m sure you do Darling, where are your mommies?”

Twilight was about to say something from the top of the stairs when

Dawn answered first.

“Mommies are up stairs. Mommy T is talking to Mommy M’s tushie.”

“Oh dear!” exclaimed Rarity, not sure if she should be embarrassed, or collapse to the floor laughing like Rainbow Dash.

AJ, Apple Bloom and Dinky all looked at each other in shock and amusement.

“DAWN!” cried Muffins and Twilight in unison.

“Sissy,” said Dawn to Dinky, as if sensing that a quick escape was called for, “will you p’ay with me?”

“Yes, please take your sister up stairs,” said Muffins, as she and Twilight came down the stairs, “I think she’s said enough.”

Even Apple Bloom laughed at this.

“Twilight, is Spike here?” asked AJ, “Apple Bloom has a request.”

“Twilight, would you mind if I sent a letter to Princess Celestia?” asked Apple Bloom.

“Sure Honey, I’ll take it down, Spike is visiting Shining Armor and Cadence in the Crystal Empire.” Twilight summoned a quill and paper. “Okay, go ahead.”

Apple Bloom smiled at AJ, AJ nodded back.

“Dear Princess Celestia,” started the filly, “I wanted to let you know I’ve made the most fantastic discovery ’bout friendship. I doubt I’ll ever have better news.

Applejack has always been my best friend and has always been there for me, I’ve always known I can count on her at anytime.

I was sure she was the best sister ever.

But I was wrong.”

Twilight looked up from the paper and raised an eyebrow. AJ, Rarity, and Apple Bloom were smiling odd, knowing smiles.

“As it turns out, she’s been lyin’ to me and everypony else for many years. Shocking for the pony who represents the Element of Honesty.”

Again Twilight got a puzzled look, but everypony continued to smirk at her reaction. Apple bloom continued:

“You see, I found out yesterday I didn’t have the best sister ever. No, I found out I have the best mother ever. And now, where before I had none, now I have two moms.

Your faithful subject,

Apple Blossom Apple.”

“Your mother? Apple Blossom?” said Twilight to Apple Bloom, but she was looking at AJ.

AJ nodded her head. Twilight forgot about the letter and rushed to hug AJ and Apple Bloom, Muffins joined them.

“But how?” asked Twilight.

“Darling, do I’ve to explain that to you...

Again?” said Muffins to Twilight, always eager to give a little dig.

“I know how! But how?”

“Well you don’t do it by talking to somepony’s tushie, I know that much,” giggled Apple Bloom.

“Apple Blossom!” exclaimed AJ with a smirk, “that’s how it starts!”

“I think we need to have ‘the talk’ with our daughter,” said Rarity with a smile.

Muffins and Twilight blushed darker than was thought possible with their coat colors.

AJ was obliged to explain about the past and the history of her incident. Somehow, after keeping it hidden for all these years, bringing it out was making it easier on her. Plus by coming clean about being Apple Bloom’s mother, it was taking away any shame she still attached to the attack.

As everypony was talking excitedly, Rainbow Dash walked in, seeing hugging and hearing laughter.

“Hey Egg-Head! What’s going on?” asked Rainbow.

“Some really exciting news!” answered Twilight, ignoring the name, “where’s Pinkie she should hear this.”

“She wanted to try something,” said Rainbow, “in fact; 3… 2… 1…”

There was a yellow flash, and there stood Pinkie.

“Great job Pinkie!” said Twilight, “you didn’t appear on top of the tree this time.”

Rainbow turned to Pinkie with a grin;

“Hey Pink, Twi has some news to tell us.”

“Not me,” said Twilight, “I think Apple Bloom should tell you, right Apple Bloom?”

“You bet!” said the filly, “I’ve somepony you need to meet! My mother!”

“Your mother?” said Pinkie looking in every direction, “Where? Where? Where!”

“She’s right here,” said Apple Bloom pointing out Applejack.

Rainbow’s jaw dropped in understanding, but Pinkie burst out in joyful laughter.

“Good one Apple Bloom, don’t you know she’s your sister?”

“Pink,” said Rainbow, “I don’t think she’s kidding.”

“What!” exclaimed the pink pony. “Why that’s great news! But I’m confused, more than normal.”

AJ was obliged to tell the story again. It truly was getting easier with each telling. There were more hugs and congratulations all around.

“Wow!” said Rainbow, “that was so great I almost forgot what we came here for. We needed to ask Twi and Muffins something.”

“We need to know how a pony goes about adopting a kid from the Children’s Home,” said Pinkie.

The smiles grew even larger.

“Scootaloo?” asked Apple Bloom.

“Scootaloo,” answered Rainbow. “Pink and I are sorry we hadn’t thought of this before.”

There were tears in Muffins eyes.

“I’m so proud of you two,” said Muffins, “I wish somepony had done it for my brother and me.

The process is simple to start, you go to the Children’s Home and get the adoption paperwork, fill it out along with some other information they’ll ask for. Then it goes before a board for approval.”

CHAPTER SIX: Dash-ed Hopes

Candy Mane looked up from her paperwork. She recognized the two ponies who just entered the office. Rainbow Dash was the captain of the local Weather Team, she was by often to visit with one of the fillies. And who didn’t know Pinkie Pie, no, she corrected herself, Pinkie Dash. These two ponies, along with their four friends had saved Ponyville and Equestria on several occasions. Here were real celebrates and heroes.

“Hello Rainbow and Pinkie, what can I do for you?”

“Hi Candy Mane, we’re interested in adopting one of your fillies.” Said Pinkie.

“Her name is Scootaloo.” Said Rainbow.

“Scootaloo?” asked Candy Mane, “Oh yes, Scootaloo West-Wind. A good filly, a little bit of a hoof-full at times, but heart as big as all Equestria.”

“Oh we know that,” said Rainbow, “she’s friends with my best friends’ sisters.”

“And daughters,” interject Pinkie.

“I’ve been giving her flying lessons for the last few years,” finished Rainbow.

“So that’s what you’ve been doing with her. Some of the very minor behavioral issues vanished when she started taking lessons. Thank you for working with her. Sometimes our kids go un-noticed and they’re the fillies and colts that need attention the most.”

“It’s been our pleasure,” said Pinkie, “Rainbow and I’ve decided Scootaloo would be a perfect addition to our family. Who better to take care of a Pegasus filly than the best flier in all Equestria. Plus, in the Dash home, there’s more than enough love to go around.”

“That’s what we like to hear. When children get Scootaloo’s age, it gets harder to place them with a family. So here is what needs to be done.”

Candy Mane turned and took a packet of forms from some shelves behind her desk and set them on her desk.

“These need to be filled out in full. We’ll need personal information from the two of you so we can do a background check, standard procedure, nothing implied. You’ll need to give six personal references, not family, and then the information goes before the board for a decision.”

“How long does that take?” asked Rainbow.

“Two to three weeks, normally.” Replied Candy Mane.

“I was concerned because I heard she was being moved to Cloudsdale soon.” Said Rainbow.

“Yes she is, but we should have a decision before then.” Said Candy Mane. “The process is to make sure the children entrusted to us by the Crown get the very best homes. We’re not here to block children from getting loving families.”

Pinkie’s eyes glowed yellow, there was a yellow aura around the packet of forms as Pinkie levitated the paperwork off the desk. Candy Mane was taken aback.

“I’ve never seen an Earth Pony do that!”

“Long story,” said Rainbow with a sly smile, “we’ll get these back to you as quickly as we can.”

“Thank you and good luck,” said Candy Mane as they left the office.

In the hall they saw Scootaloo. Scoot was always happy to see them.

“Rainbow, Pinkie, What’re you doing here?”

“Oh, we had nothing better to do so we decided to get a cat to play with Tank, but there weren’t any available right now. So instead; we thought we’d come here so we could get a ton of paperwork to fill out. What a pain, a cat would’ve been easier. I hope the snot-muzzled little brat is grateful, I detest paperwork.”

“Yes,” said Pinkie with one of her smiles, “paperwork is sooo boring.”

“Paperwork?” asked Scoot, “what paperwork?”

Pinkie let Scootaloo see the papers.

“Adoption papers?” asked Scoot, hopping what she was hearing was what she was wishing, “no way… Really?”

“I don’t know,” said Rainbow teasing, “I just can’t get my mind around ‘West-Wind’.”

Scoot’s eyes got bigger. Her hopes coming to fruition.

“Yes,” said Pinkie to Rainbow, “I don’t think I could ever get use to that. Unless it was a deal-breaker, I think that’d have to be the first thing to go.”

Pinkie then looked at Scootaloo.

“What do you think of... Scootaloo Dash?”

Scootaloo squealed like Sweetie Belle as she jogged in place. Rainbow and Pinkie giggled at Scoot’s reaction because it was the way they felt as well.

Rainbow and Pinkie worked hard to get the paperwork filled out correctly. Twilight and Muffins helped a lot. When told they needed six personal references, Twilight told Rainbow whom better than three of her fellow wielders of the Elements of Harmony, Applejack, Rarity and herself.

“What about the other three?” asked Rainbow.

“I thought about them from the start,” said Twilight with a grin. “I think I can arrange some letters of recommendation from some ponies that’d be hard not to take notice.”

“You mean...”

“Princesses Celestia, Luna and Cadence,” answered Twilight.

A couple days later, Diamond Tiara was at home doing her homework. She had some to make up because she’d been distracted in class and there were the clandestine meetings with Sweetie Belle at the movies or just hanging out at Sugarcube Corner or the clubhouse which made her fall behind on her work. But she felt all the kissing and hoof holding was worth it. She and Sweetie were falling deeper in love, and they weren’t sure how much longer they could keep it under wraps.

Sweetie Belle had shared with her the books that Rarity had got for them. They were excited, confused and embarrassed with some of the pictures and descriptions. Rarity had also made them Pinkie Pie Swear they’d not try any of this before they had a chance to talk to her about it, she impressed unlike Spin the Bottle, this wasn’t a game and not to be taken lightly.

Diamond had been let in on the fact Rainbow and Pinkie Dash were trying to adopt her friend Scootaloo. As her father came in the room, she thought she might ask about Scoot.

“Hey daddy,” said Diamond, finishing up the last problem. “I wanted to ask you something.”

“Sure Baby, what is it?”

“You know my friend Scootaloo. She’s so upset she’s going to have to leave her friends because she’s graduating. You’re chairpony of the Children’s Home Board. Can’t you do anything to help her?”

“Sorry Honey,” said Filthy Rich, “she’s too old for the home. Besides, she’ll be around other Pegasi.”

“But I heard Rainbow and Pinkie Dash wanted to adopt her.”

“Like that’ll happen while I’m on the board.” Replied Filthy.

“What do you mean daddy?”

“Listen Honey, it’s my job to make sure the children entrusted to the board get good homes with decent ponies.”

“But I know Rainbow and Pinkie, they’re some of the nicest ponies around,” said Diamond.

“Look, you’re probably too young to understand, but Rainbow and Pinkie aren’t fit ponies to be around normal ponies. Mare-lovers don’t need to be polluting the mind of an innocent filly. And I’m going to do my best to block the adoption anyway I can. It doesn’t matter if they do have references from three princesses.”

“Why would you deny my friend a loving home?” said Diamond, not believing what she was hearing.

“Mare-lovers have no right to be around normal ponies! That’s that! If I could get my way I’d throw every mare-lover out of Ponyville… No, out of Equestria!”

“But daddy…”

“I can see hanging out with the sisters and daughters of mare-lovers has made you soft. I should have realized that from the beginning, from now on, you can only hang out with Silver Spoon and only when she’s not around those other fillies. Don’t argue! I’ve spoken and I mean every word!”

Filthy started to storm out of the room. Diamond got up and started to leave as well.

“Where do you think you’re going, young filly?” demanded Filthy.

“I’m going to the library; I have to get some information for a report.”

“Well get back here quickly.”

Diamond was going to the library. There was something she’d read about and she needed to get help with it. She’d tell Twilight Sparkle everything, she was sure she’d get all the help she wanted.

AJ and Rarity had dropped by the library to say hello when the Dash’s came storming in. Rainbow was mad enough to chew nails and spit chain, as AJ would put it. Pinkie was a crying wreck.

“I can’t believe it! I can’t believe it!” thundered Rainbow. “Just who does that Filthy Rich think he is? Celestia?

I know Celestia and he’s no Celestia!

Celestia wouldn’t think of sending such a letter!”

Pinkie was in a corner weeping hard, Muffins was trying to console her.

“Let me see that letter,” said Twilight.

Rainbow and Pinkamena Dash,

I’ve done the preliminary review of your application for the adoption of Scootaloo West-Wind. Your background checks and personal references are spotless.

However, on further review, due to your unnatural and perverted lifestyle, I’m afraid the request will be denied.

Fillies and colts entrusted to this board must be protected from situations that would impede normal development, and possible sexual endangerment from morally deficient, predatory and deviant ponies.

This still has to go before the full board, but it’ll be my recommendation the board turns down the request.

Filthy Rich

Chairpony, Ponyville Children’s Home

“That Filthy Rich! I’d kick his bigoted face right off his bigoted head,” shouted Rainbow, “if it didn’t land me in jail!”

Rainbow then noticed that Diamond Tiara had come into the library.

“I’m sorry you heard me say that about your dad,” said Rainbow.

“Don’t be,” said Diamond, clearly something was bothering her. “Right now, I’d hold him down for you.”

“Why?” asked Twilight.

Diamond told them some of the conversation she’d just had with her father.

“Wait here everypony,” said Rainbow walking to the door, “jail’s goin’a be no biggie with the satisfaction I’m goin’a feel.”

“Please don’t,” said Diamond, “I’ve a different way. Mrs. Sparkle you know about official paperwork.”

“Yes.” Twilight replied.

“I would like for you to do some for me, I don’t have any bits, but I can work for it.”

“Don’t worry about that Diamond,” said Twilight, “what is it that you need?”

“I believe it’s called an ‘Emancipation of Minor Order’.”

Twilight looked puzzled and thought a moment. The other ponies looked curious as well. This was no little request.

“That’s rather harsh,” said Twilight.

“He said mare-lovers have no right to be around normal ponies. If he had his way, all mare-lovers would be thrown out of Equestria.”

“That’s very noble of you to stand up for other ponies, but I don’t think it’s any reason to divorce your parents,” said Twilight.

Diamond was blushing.

“Twilight, it does affect her,” said Rarity, Diamond gave her a little nod. “Diamond Tiara and Sweetie Belle have been dating secretly for some time.”

“Is that what the books were for?” asked Twilight, not sure if she wanted to hear the answer.

“Yes, Mrs. Sparkle,” said Diamond, “we’ve read them, but we’ve not done anything more than kissing, I promise. We told Mrs. Apple we’d talk to her before we thought about doing anything else.”

“You can believe her,” said Rarity, “but I guess with her father’s attitude, I can understand her request.”

“Are you sure about this Honey,” asked Twilight, “this is a big step. It may change your life in ways you might not have thought about.”

“I’m sure, just as sure as I love Sweetie Belle.” Said Diamond, the ponies around her smiled. “I don’t want to do this, I love my father. But he’s just as liable to kick me out when he finds out I’m in love with a filly. But I can’t be around his bigotry any longer and be quiet. This time it directly affects me, my friends and especially the pony I love.

I plan to tell him right now how I feel and I’ll be bringing Sweetie Belle, if she’ll come with me.”

“She’ll go Diamond, I guess you’ve an answer for Sweetie Belle.” Said Rarity with a smile.

“I have, I had an answered all the time. But I was trying to figure how to break it to other ponies, and to my parents. I guess this is the time to do it.” Said Diamond, “but I need to see Sweetie Belle and give her my answer first. Do you know where she is Mrs. Apple?”

“She’s where she spends most of her time after school, at the clubhouse,” said Rarity.

“Listen Diamond,” said Rainbow, “I think that’s very brave of you, and it’d be fair to say we all here are so proud of you taking up a stand under such a hard situation. But I think this might be a way to fix our Scootaloo problem also.”

“How do you mean,” asked Twilight.

“I think with the backing of his daughter, proof of his bigotry, will have him removed from the board if he continues with his attitude,” said Rainbow.

“I thought after the fight thing, he’d changed. I guess his feelings went underground,” replied Twilight.

“Don’t worry Mrs. Sparkle, Mrs. Dash,” said Diamond, “I’ll help anyway I can, and if I don’t have to use the paperwork, I won’t. But he doesn’t need to hurt other ponies just because his head is up his flanks.

(The ponies smirked at this.)

But if I have to, I’ll use the paperwork and go and live at the Children’s Home if need be.”

“That’s a very mature attitude, Diamond,” said Twilight. “And you’ll not have to stay at the Home. I think I can name a few ponies who’d be happy to take a brave and intelligent filly in to their homes, right girls?”

There were comments of agreement all around.

“I’ll draw it up now. I do have the authority to sign it, you know.”

“Thank you, Mrs. Sparkle, I’ll pick it up when I come back with Sweetie Belle,” then Diamond added with a smile, “my fillyfriend!”

“No Diamond,” said Twilight with a smile, “you two are far too mature for that. Say rather ‘marefriend’.”

Diamond flashed a larger grin and trotted out the door.

After Diamond had left, Rainbow looked at her friends;

“Girls, I don’t think Filthy Rich deserves a daughter that special.” Then looking at Rarity, “you better let Sweetie Belle know she’s a ‘keeper’.”

“I think Sweetie already knew,” replied Rarity with a smile. “In spite of their age, they’re two ponies who love each other so much they want the togetherness more than sex. I know a lot of stallions and mares who never reach that level of maturity in their relationships. And I’m going to make sure they know I support them.”

“I think everypony here will do the same.” Said Twilight, “I think I have some paperwork I need to do.”

Twilight looked up the reference and started on the order for Diamond Tiara.

CHAPTER SEVEN: Hopes Renewed

Diamond headed toward Sweet Apple Acres at a happy trot, by the time she got to the clubhouse, she was at a full gallop, she was that excited. When she got near, she could hear her friends inside. At the door, for one moment, she paused, fearing what her friends might say. But she remembered what she’d said at the sleepover;

‘I know if I had a pony to love, I’d not act like I had to hide it from everypony.’

Diamond braced herself and rushed in the clubhouse.

“Fillies! Fillies! I need to tell you all something!” she said, afraid to pause and lose her nerve.

All stopped talking to pay attention.

Then she looked Sweetie Belle in the eyes.

“I need to tell you something in particular.”

All were looking at Diamond; Silver Spoon had an odd smirk on her face.

“Yes!” said Diamond, wanting to jump up and down.

“Yes?” said Sweetie Belle, hoping she was hearing what she wanted to hear.

“Yes, what?” asked Dinky.

“Yes Sweetie Belle, I want to be your marefriend because I love you!”

“I love you too! I’ve wanted to tell you,” said Sweetie Belle

With that, Diamond Tiara and Sweetie Belle kissed passionately, not caring what pony was looking.

“Too cool!” said Scootaloo, forgetting for the moment the bad news Rainbow had told her.

They broke the kiss, all smiles.

“I really did have something to tell the rest of you ponies,” said Diamond, still with a foreleg around Sweetie Belle, “my father is the reason it looks like Scootaloo won’t be adopted. He said that mare-lovers have no place around decent ponies!”

Gasps all around.

“Well I’m going home now to tell dad I love Sweetie Belle, and we’ve been seeing a lot of each other. And if it makes me a mare-lover, then I’m okay with it and I guess I’ll be moving out... Tonight!” Then turning to Sweetie Belle, “I’d really like it if you’d come with me. I’ll need somepony to help me pack, that’s if they let me take my things. But more than that, I need a pony to support me.”

Sweetie hugged Diamond;

“I’ll go with you and do what ever you need. I’ll always be there because I love you and I’ll stand by you no matter what,” said Sweetie Belle, then she gave Diamond a quick kiss.

“We’re going too, we might not love you like Sweetie Belle,” said Silver Spoon with a giggle, “but we stand with our friends.”

“Just don’t expect us to kiss you too,” said Scootaloo.

All the fillies laughed and cheered. Diamond told them they had to stop by the library to pick something up.

They arrived at the library to find Twilight, Muffins, Rainbow, Pinkie, AJ, and Rarity along with two ponies in police uniforms waiting outside for them. Rainbow had went to get the police officers. Muffins had said ‘this is a matter of the law and they should be there if it needs to be enforced’.

“Are you sure you want to go through with this?” asked Twilight.

“Most certainly, Mrs. Sparkle,” said Diamond.

“Then here is the paper you wanted signed by the third highest authority in the land, Lady Twilight Sparkle, in the name of the highest authority, Princess Celestia Rex.” Said Twilight, “this normally takes days or weeks for investigation, but with his past history, there’s no doubt in my pony mind what you say is the truth. Especially with the evidence of the Scootaloo adoption letter Rainbow and Pinkie received. Oh, and if your father does anything with the paper, I made a couple of copies.”

“Thank you, now if you’ll excuse us, we have somewhere to go.” Said Diamond with a smile, knowing that things were starting to go her way.

“Oh no, you’re not going alone.” Said Rarity with a wink, “we’re going too. If there’s trouble, well, we mare-lovers have to stick together.”

“Hey! That’s my line! I’m the only REAL mare-lover here,” said Rainbow Dash with a grin.

When they all got to the Rich Mansion, Diamond told every pony she want to go in with Sweetie Belle first; she wanted a chance to come clean about their relationship. If that didn’t change his mind about things then she’d let them know if she needed help.

Filthy Rich heard the door open and close. Diamond should’ve been home by now; she was going to get it.

“Diamond, is that you?”

“Yes, I’m home, and I’m not alone,” said Diamond.

Filthy came in the front room to see Diamond and one of her friends, Sweetie Belle, Rarity Apple’s sister.

“I thought I told you that I didn’t want you hanging out with this one and the other mare-lovers’ sisters and daughters.” Said Filthy, trying to be as intimidating as he could.

But he could tell that it didn’t appear to be working.

“I know what you said daddy. But I also heard something else you said and that’s why Sweetie is here to help me.”

“Help you what?” said Filthy, not sure what his daughter was saying.

“I’m moving out,” said the filly.

“And what makes you think you could do that?”

He got his answer in a most unexpected way.

Diamond and Sweetie Belle embraced, then they kissed with all the passion they were feeling in their souls after letting their friends know the truth.

“WHAT ARE YOU DOING YOUNG FILLY!” screamed Filthy. “YOU GET TO YOUR ROOM, I’LL DEAL WITH YOU IN A MOMENT, AFTER I THROW THIS ONE OUT!”

“You’ll do no such thing, and you can’t tell me what to do anymore!” Said Diamond defiantly.

“I’ll show you who can do what!” said Filthy.

Filthy looked as if he was going to get physical. Sweetie Belle’s horn took on an ominous green glow, Filthy didn’t miss it.

“Before you do anything you’ll regret, I’ve ten ponies outside waiting to hear from me. And two police officers.” Said Diamond.

“What’s gotten into you,” said Filthy starting to back down.

“You threw me out, so I got my friends to help me move.”

“When did I throw you out?”

“You said that mare-lovers had no place around decent ponies and if you could you’d throw all of them out of Equestria,” replied Diamond. “I’m in love with Sweetie Belle, she’s in love with me, and for some time now. But we’ve had to hide it like it was something dirty or illegal because of your outdated attitude. I love her for who she is, not because she’s a filly, but if it makes us mare-lovers, then we can live with it as long as we have each other.”

“You can’t go, I won’t let you.” Said Filthy, starting to regret his stance.

“As I told you, you no longer have any say,” replied Diamond.

Sweetie Belle levitated the Emancipation Order to Filthy. He read it and read it again.

“What is it Dear?” said Spoiled Rich, Diamond’s mom. She was standing in the kitchen doorway. She was holding a little foal.

“Just go back in there,” said Filthy, “I’m handling this.”

“No,” she said, looking like she’d never said it to him before. “I want to know why I just heard you’ve thrown our daughter out.”

“I’ve done no such thing,” said Filthy, his iron control of his family falling apart before his eyes.

“I love Sweetie Belle, but that makes us mare-lovers, according to him. So I’m not welcome. He said mare-lovers have no place around decent ponies.

Plus he’s blocking one of our best friends from being adopted just because he doesn’t like Rainbow and Pinkie Dash’s lifestyle. He says they’re unfit only because of who they love.”

“Pinkie Dash, unfit?” said Spoiled. “Why, she’s the sweetest and most loving mare in all Equestria! And Rainbow Dash is a very important pony; she’s in charge of Ponyville’s weather, and a hard and honest worker. Not to mention they’ve helped save Equestria several times.

I think it’s you that’s unfit for your position on the Children’s Home Board.”

“But Diamond has an Emancipation Order,” said Filthy, grasping at straws as he was feeling the last of his authority totally disappearing.

“And I don’t blame her,” answered Diamond’s mother looking at the order, “didn’t you go through this when Diamond got into that fight? Didn’t you get put in your place, when Twilight Sparkle came to the aid of our daughter? She inform you what she was able to do. Now it looks like you’ve brought that power down on you.

I’d do a reality check on what you think once more. If you cause us to lose our daughter, instead of gaining this adorable little filly as a fillyfriend for our Diamond, then I think it’ll be you who gets the Emancipation Order.

Or better yet, perhaps I could get Twilight Sparkle to send you back to Tartarus...

Permanently this time!"

A look of fear crossed Filthy's face, remembering just the few moments Twilight had sent him there.

“Marefriend, mother,” said Diamond with a smile.

“You’re right, I don’t think you’re children anymore.” Said Spoiled. “You’ve acted like adults more a certain adult in this very room.”

“Our friends and their parents and sisters are outside waiting to hear from us,” said Sweetie Belle.

“Invite them in, they’ll want to hear it from Filthy’s own muzzle it’s all been a big misunderstanding and he’s not going to block the adoption.” Said Spoiled, glaring at Filthy, “and if he knows what’s good for him, he’ll be expediting it. I’m sure he can have it ready by tomorrow morning.”

Sweetie and Diamond went to the door and looked out at the ponies on the lawn.

"Come in everypony," said Diamond, "my daddy has something he'd like to say."

Sweetie and Diamond looked at each other, smiled and kissed unashamed in front of their friends and the adults.

Pinkie, Rainbow and Scootaloo looked at each other, there was hope and joy on their faces.

Murmurs of delight and approval was heard from the gathered ponies as the entered the Rich house.

The next day, Rainbow and Pinkie were in the office of the Ponyville Children’s Home. Candy Mane was all smiles as she witnessed the final signing of the adoption papers. Pinkie had just finished.

“That’s all,” said Candy Mane, “I don’t think I’ve ever seen an adoption go through as fast before.”

“I guess having recommendations from three princesses helped.” Said Rainbow, knowing the real reason. But this wasn’t the place to go into it.

“Scootaloo is in the hall, saying goodbye to her room mates. She’s been packed for days.”

“Thank you, Candy Mane.” Said Pinkie, “we’ll make sure that Scootaloo stays in touch with the children.”

Pinkie levitated their copy of the paperwork and the two ponies exited into the hall.

Scootaloo was out there waiting, her eyes about to bulge out of her head with excitement. She was trembling with excitement.

“Well Squirt,” said Rainbow, kidding, “you sure you don’t want to stay here? You’ve got it pretty sweet, all the roommates you want, no parents telling you what to do. Not having to worry about birthday or Hearth Warming presents. And government employees controlling your life. Makes me want to move in here myself!”

Pinkie almost couldn’t hold in the laughter.

“Are you kidding! This is a dream come true! I have a real home! I have real parents! And they’re ponies I’ve loved for a very long time.

I told you once, Rainbow, I wanted you to be like my big sister, this is even better! I have you and Pinkie as my mothers!” then Scootaloo paused, her face lit up even more as a thought hit her;

“Is it okay if I call you two ‘mom’? I never really had a mom.”

Rainbow and Pinkie both hugged Scoot.

“Of course you can Honey,” said Pinkie, Rainbow nodded consent.

Despite Rainbow and Scootaloo trying to be cool about it, there were tears of joy in all three ponies’ eyes.

“Come on Scootaloo Dash, let’s go home.” Said Rainbow.

“Not before we stop at Sugarcube Corner for a treat,” said Pinkie, “I think our daughter deserves it,”

Scootaloo thought her face was going to rip from smiling so hard. ‘Scootaloo Dash’! ‘Daughter’! Could life be any better?

They walked outside where Scoot’s bags were waiting. Pinkie winked at Scootaloo, her eyes glowed yellow, the bags disappeared.

“We didn’t want to carry them all the way” giggled Pinkie. “Why don’t you two go ahead, I’ll meet you there.”

Scootaloo and Rainbow looked at each other. They spread their wings and took off. Scootaloo had always felt exhilaration when flying with Rainbow, but this was greater because she was flying with her new mother, and she loved it. She looked over at Rainbow only to see Rainbow looking at her. They both exchanged smiles.

On landing at Sugarcube Corner, Pinkie was waiting there.

“But… How?” asked Scootaloo.

“Get used to it. She could do that before she learned magic,” smiled Rainbow.

Pinkie kissed Rainbow and then she kissed Scootaloo a mother type kiss. Scoot liked the feeling of having parents who cared for her and loved her.

“Get inside you two slow-pokes,” said Pinkie. Scootaloo and Rainbow cringed at the designation of ‘slow-poke’, but they couldn’t argue, Pinkie got there first.

They entered Sugarcube Corner the lights were off, they came on to a thunderous;

“SURPRISE!”

The place was decorated with party trimmings and a large banner that read:

WELCOME TO YOUR NEW HOME SCOOTALOO DASH

All of her five close friends and other friends from school were there. As were Miss Cheerilee and her new fiancé Big Mac. There was Lyra and Bon-Bon Heartstrings, Twilight, Muffins and Dawn Sparkle, Applejack and Rarity Apple along with other ponies from the community. There were a set of ponies off to the side that Scootaloo didn’t recognize.

“Let’s introduce the rest of your new family,” said Pinkie.

They led Scootaloo over the unknown ponies.

“Scootaloo, this is your new grandmother and grandfather, Igneous Rock and Cloudy Quartz Pie, your new aunts Maud, Limestone and Marble,” said Pinkie introducing five Earth Ponies.

“And here’s your grandmother Windy Whistles and grandfather Bow Hothoof Dash,” said Rainbow There were two bluish Pegasus Ponies, the stallion had a Rainbow mane and tail, the mare had a dark and light striped pink mane and tail, Rainbow’s had her eyes.

There was a lot of fussing over Scootaloo, she’d never had so many ponies so glad to meet her, hug and kiss her and address her as granddaughter and niece. There was a slight issue with the way Pinkie’s parents talked, but she was able to follow enough to understand.

Scootaloo had never been the center of attention before, she was in Elysium.

They then started to mingle. A bit later, most of Scoot’s friends were all talking to her when Sweetie Belle and Diamond told her somepony wanted to talk to her and her new parents.

Diamond and Sweetie led Scootaloo, Rainbow and Pinkie over to a corner. There stood Filthy Rich, looking alone and forlorn.

“What do you want,” asked Rainbow, not very happy.

“I need to apologize,” he said looking at the floor, “I’ve been thoughtless and judgmental, without any good reason. I realize I’d been spouting ideas taught to me by my father. Out of respect to him, I’d taken him at his word without ever questing the validity of his ideas.”

“How do we know that we can trust you?” asked Pinkie.

“It took the possibility of losing my daughter, my wife and my son to make me truly think about my stance and then I realized it was I who was wrong.

I didn’t appreciate it when Twilight Sparkle helped Diamond, and I didn’t see what I was saying was hurting my daughter, now more than I’d ever realized. I was willing to deny my daughter the possibility of love with a wonderful pony, just because I was stuck in my father’s mindset.

And I was hurting Scootaloo by trying to deny her a loving home because I was so closed minded.

I know the damage is done, but I hope I can make it up to everypony somehow. I’m truly sorry.”

Rainbow could tell that Filthy meant what he was saying. Because of his attitude, she didn’t feel like she could stay as mad.

There was a moment when neither said anything.

“Thank you, and thank you for speeding up the adoption process. We’ll take you at your word you’ve changed and we’ll suspend judgment until proven otherwise. After all Scootaloo is a friend of Diamond’s so we should have a good relationship with her parents,” said Rainbow.

Rainbow did something she didn’t think she’d be doing. She offered her hoof.

Filthy Rich looked shocked and humbled and shook Rainbow’s hoof. The new little family went off to mingle but Sweetie and Diamond stayed behind.

Sweetie Belle spoke up;

“Mr. Rich, we want to do this properly, we love each other and we’re tired of hiding our relationship; so I’d like to ask your permission to take Diamond to the school dance, as my date.”

Filthy was taken aback, after the way he acted, these ponies were truly acting like they did forgive him, and as the case before him, respected him and his feelings.

“I couldn’t think of any other pony I’d want to take her, if she wants to.” Diamond nodded enthusiastically, “I see Diamond truly loves you and I believe you love her too. You stood by her when it looked like her own father wouldn’t. That’s proof enough of your love and caring, I’ll always remember it. You’re always welcome in the Rich home.”

Filthy was shocked even more when both Diamond and Sweetie hugged him.

“Thank you Mr. Rich. I’ll always be there for her,” said Sweetie Belle.

Filthy returned the hug, his heart felt better than it had for a very long time.

There were colts from the school there, and they took the opportunity to get a final commitment from some of the fillies for whom they’d let escort them. There were more than a few disappointed when they found out Diamond Tiara and Sweetie Belle weren’t available nor would ever be.

Sweetie and Diamond went and joined Scootaloo and the rest of their friends.

“You two look happy,” said Scootaloo.

“Daddy gave us permission to go to the dance as dates!” said Diamond Tiara.

“That’s great!” said Silver Spoon, “at least two of us have dates. None of us have accepted any offers yet.”

“And I think the colts are intimidated now they have to ask Rainbow if they can take me,” said Scootaloo.

All the fillies laughed.

“Girls,” said Rarity, coming over to them. “I’m going to have to have you come by Carousel Boutique before this weekend, if you’re wanting me to make dresses for the dance. It would help to know what colors you’d want so the colts could dress accordingly.

“Sis, about that,” said Sweetie Belle, “Mr. Rich said it was okay with him if Diamond and I go to the dance as dates. So we were wanting to know if you’d make us matching dresses?”

“I’d love to make matching dresses for you. I’ve a feeling I’ll be making matching white dresses for you in the future also.” Rarity said with a wink.

All the fillies giggled.

After the party ended, Rainbow, Pinkie and Scootaloo walked the little way to where the cloud house was hovering.

“Let’s go home kid!” said Rainbow to Scoot, then she leaped into the air, and Scootaloo followed.

As they landed at the door, Pinkie opened it from the inside for them.

“Just can’t help pulling that can you Pink,” said Rainbow, they all three laughed.

Scootaloo was shown inside, there was a guestroom Scootaloo used on some of her overnight visits. Rainbow and Pinkie led her to it. They opened the door for her and where there had been a spartanly furnished room, there was now a room decorated for an athletic teenaged filly.

There were posters of the Wonderbolts and the latest colt-bands. There were other items that glorified the arts of flying and music, obviously done by Rainbow.

But there were enough girly touches to remind the visitor it was indeed a filly who lived here, heart shaped throw pillows, pink comforter on the bed, a makeup vanity and other items which matched tastefully, obviously done by Pinkie.

“When did you get time to do this?” asked Scootaloo. “It’s a room like I’ve always wanted, my own room.”

“We started doing this when we decided to adopt you,” said Pinkie.

There were tears of joy on Scootaloo’s cheeks. She no longer cared to try to stay cool. She was home with ponies that wanted her and cared for her. Scootaloo hugged Rainbow and Pinkie.

“Thank you so much. This is all I ever wanted. You’re all I ever wanted. Parents who’re there for me.” She started to sob, “I love my new mothers so much.”

“We love you too,” said Rainbow and Pinkie together.

That evening there was much happiness and tears of joy in the Dash home.

CHAPTER EIGHT: Flashback To Dawn 2

Two(ish) years earlier:

Twilight awoke to an odd feeling. Muffins was curled up in her forelegs. The ‘glow’ of their earlier lovemaking was still there. Muffins really knew how to please her. Twilight had an occasional bout of insomnia in the past. She’d read into all hours of Luna’s night. But now it was never a problem. A session of sex with her wife was enough to relax Twilight and allow blissful sleep.

But there was something that had disturbed her slumber. With Twilight being so in tuned to the world of magic around her, she could tell when something was out of place. Twilight got out of bed as carefully as she could but Muffins still stirred.

“Twilight Honey,” said the drowsy Pegasus, “what’s wrong?”

“Probably nothing,” replied Twilight, “go back to sleep.”

Muffins turned over and complied. Twilight went downstairs, she looked all about the library level, but there wasn’t anything out of place. The doors were secured, the windows were closed. She then went back up to the living level. Aside from signs of Spike having made a midnight snack and not cleaning up after himself (again), the kitchen/eating area was fine. She then went to the sleeping rooms.

Sparkler’s room was empty, she’d been staying at a client’s home lately, but nothing out of place.

She then looked in on Cookie. Spike was curled up in his basket/bed, blue blanket wrapped around him. Cookie was fast asleep in her bed, Twilight’s old smarty-pants doll keeping her company.

Twilight crept over to Dawn’s crib, peeked in and to her horror it was empty.

“MUFFINS!” Twilight screamed.

Muffins was in there in a flash.

“Dawn’s gone!” said Twilight about to go into one of her panics.

“Where is she?” asked Muffins.

Twilight just gave her the ‘I can’t believe you just asked that’ face.

Cookie was awakened by the noise as was Spike.

“Cookie, did you move Dawn?” asked Twilight.

“No mom,” replied the filly, “I’ve been sleeping.”

“I didn’t hear anything either,” said Spike.

“Get up and help us look.” Said Muffins to the two.

They proceeded to turn the library upside-down, books were removed from shelves, and cabinets were emptied, closets torn apart.

“She’s not here!” Said Twilight, jogging in place, her panic almost to an uncontrollable level.

“Look outside,” said Muffins.

They went to the door and opened it in time to see Rainbow and Pinkie about to knock. Pinkie had Dawn on her back.

“Twi, have you ever turned over to kiss your wife only to find a little filly in between you and her? I just did,” said Rainbow.

They came inside and went up to the kitchen area, Muffins put Dawn back to bed. The little foal lay down and appeared to be asleep by the time Muffins left the room. Cookie and Spike went back to bed as well. Twilight was making some tea while Rainbow and Pinkie were sitting at the table.

“How in Equestria did Dawn get in your bed?” asked Muffins sitting down at the table.

Twilight poured all a cup of tea.

“Magic obviously,” said Twilight, “but who’s. How have you advanced with teleportation Pinkie?”

“I can teleport from the ground to the cloud house and back without any problem. But when I try from any real distance, well the last time,” said the pink pony, “I ended up ten feet above our cloud house, good thing they’re so soft. I’ve been able to move objects, but nothing like bringing a foal from somewhere else to me.”

“I know Cookie is starting to exhibit a lot of talent but she’s nowhere near this level.” Said Twilight. “Ponies, while they are learning magic, sometimes do magic in their sleep. Understand they’re normally young fillies and colts. Do you remember dreaming about Dawn, Pinkie?”

“No Twi, I was dreaming about Dashie’s…” she said with a sly smile, “I don’t think I’ll say any more.”

Rainbow was slightly blushing.

“Come on Pinkie,” said Muffins with a smile, “we all here have seen and enjoyed Rainbow’s mare...”

“I know that it’s been years since I’ve sleep-spelled.” Said Twilight quickly changing the subject. It was getting hard not to start something by just talking about it.

They sat around talking about what might’ve happened when they heard a knock at the door, followed by the bell downstairs ringing showing somepony had come in.

“Twilight,” cried Rarity’s voice. “Darling, are you up, the door was open.”

“Up here,” replied Twilight.

Applejack and Rarity came up the stairs, looking like they were just awakened from a sound sleep.

“I believe we have somethin’ of y’all’s,” said Applejack.

On her back was Dawn wearing AJ’s hat.

“How in the name of Celestia?” said Muffins, she got up and bolted to the living quarters.

Rarity levitated the little foal on the floor to play.

There was a cry from Muffins in the back rooms;

“She’s gone again!”

“Obviously,” said Twilight frustrated, as intelligent as Muffins was, she must be still half asleep to make such obvious remarks. “Now I know Rarity can’t do teleportation, unless something has changed.”

Rarity shook her head showing that she couldn’t.

Muffins came back in the room.

“What’s going on?” asked Muffins.

“I’m starting to think Dawn is having magic spurts,” said Twilight, “but I’ve never heard of anything at this level and at this age, but she is an Alicorn.”

“Well, let me put her to bed and we can figure this out.” Said Muffins, then looking around, “where is she?”

There was just AJ’s hat on the floor.

“Not again,” said Twilight.

They all started looking around.

Several minutes later they heard the bell downstairs followed by a timid voice.

“Hello, Twilight, Muffins?” said Fluttershy’s voice, “am I bothering you?”

“You can bring Dawn up here.” Muffins called out.

“How did you know?” said the yellow Pegasus, coming up the stairs.

Fluttershy came up the stairs holding Dawn in one of her wings.

“Why should you be any different Darling?” said Rarity.

Fluttershy came in and noticed that all her friends were there.

Muffins took Dawn from Fluttershy, and held her under her wing. She was going back to put her to bed.

“Wait,” said Twilight, “keep her here with us, and for Celestia’s sake, hold on to her.

Alright, when you found her Rainbow, she was in the bed with you and Pinkie, correct?”

“Yes,” said Rainbow.

“And where did you find her,” said Twilight to Rarity and AJ.

“She was in our bed, in-between us,” answered Rarity.

“She was snuggled up to me as well,” said Fluttershy.

“You still have her Honey?” asked Twilight to Muffins.

“She’s still in my wing, she appears to be sleeping.”

“Celestia said Alicorns have special needs,” said Twilight. “Let us put her to bed with us for tonight, I think it’s what she’s wanting. Tomorrow I’ll contact the princess to see what her take on this is. I’m sorry everypony, I hope you won’t be disturbed again. And thank you for bringing her here.”

That next morning when they woke up, Dawn was sleeping peacefully in bed between them.

The morning proceeded normally. Muffins fixed breakfast, Cookie went off to school. Once the library was open and Spike had finished his morning chores. Twilight and Muffins sent a letter through Spike to the princess informing her of the nights happenings.

They waited for a response, but it was late in the evening, after dinner when there was a knock at the door. When the door was opened there stood Princess Celestia.

“I understand you’re having a minor issue with Dawn,” said the princess with a smile.

“If you mean her showing up in bed with our friends, several times, in the night. Then I’d say that’s an accurate assessment, Your Highness,” said Twilight.

The princess smiled.

“I was expecting this, but not this soon,” said the princess. “Alicorns are always powerful when their magic starts. Being your daughter, Twilight, she should be even more so. She’s too young for the School for Gifted Unicorns, so she’s going to have to have some pony work with her for the next couple of years.”

“I’m not sure if I’m qualified to do this,” said Twilight.

“I know you’re not.” Said the princess smiling, “that’s nothing to do with your talents. But she’ll need an Alicorn to tutor her. Not on a full time basis, three time a week would be fine.”

“You’re going to work with her?” asked Muffins.

“No, My Dear,” said the princess, “not me, my sister.”

“Princess Luna?” asked Twilight.

“Somepony say my name?’ said Luna, coming in the door. “I understand I get to have some Dawn time. I wondered what it’d take to get to see my niece more often.”

“Highness,” said Twilight, “we’d be honored.”

“I’ll let you talk about the details.” Said Celestia, “I’ve business back at Canterlot. I look forward to hearing about the progress from my sister.”

Celestia said her good-byes and left.

“Will we have to bring her to Canterlot, Princess?” asked Twilight.

“Does she ever pay attention to what anypony tells her?” asked Luna to Muffins.

“Apparently not,” said Muffins.

“I understand from my niece, your sister-in-law Cadence, she threatened to shove her tiara up you muzzle if you called her princess again.” Luna said with a wicked grin, “I’m considering an orifice at the other end of the digestive tract.”

“Oooo!” squealed Muffins, “I’d love to see that! Call her princess Darling!”

“I can see how deeply she loves you Twilight,” said Luna.

“Tell me about it,” said Twilight. But she kissed Muffins anyway.

“So, where’s my new apprentice?’ asked Luna.

“Apprentice?” asked Muffins.

“You don’t think an Alicorn who shows this much promise would be fated to be a shopkeeper or librarian?” said Luna. “But this is important, nopony else is to know about this, the apprentice part that is, until I disclose it. Even to this precious foal.”

CHAPTER NINE: Dancing to Music and Love

Back in the present:

The dance was that night. The graduation had been exciting; all the graduating class was looking forward to a summer of fun and friendship, then on to the next phase of school. And they were all going to be together that next school year.

It had looked as if they’d be losing one of their own. But that was averted and all six were happy! Two of their number had found new mothers, and two had found real love. They had stuck all together through a very trying time and came out ahead.

At Carousel Boutique, Rarity was making extra sure her sister and her marefriend looked spectacular. All their friends had come in for their final fitting and had picked up their dresses and left. Rarity had saved Diamond and Sweetie for last on purpose.

The final stitch was checked, the last wrinkle was pressed out and the last loose button was fixed. Rarity knew what she needed to do next. She was and she wasn’t looking forward to what she was about to talk about.

She loved her sister dearly and was a little sad she was getting older and not the innocent little filly who only needed Rarity to show up at the Sisterhooves Social to make her happy.

Now Sweetie Belle was in love, and her marefriend loved her as much. It didn’t matter they’d, just last week and within days of each other, turned fifteen; they were mature enough to know what love was and what’s an infatuation or crush.

She also knew these dances often involved another type of graduation, one that Rarity knew, with her sister’s age, she hoped they’d be mature enough to handle the choice.

At least there wasn’t the possibility of an unplanned foal, thought Rarity as she tried to find anything that’d ease the apprehension.

“You two look truly beautiful,” said Rarity. “I don’t just say it because you’re my sister and her marefriend.”

“Thank you sis,” answered Sweetie Belle.

“Thank you Mrs. Apple,” said Diamond.

Rarity gathered herself; the girls could tell she’d something to say.

“What’s up sis,” asked Sweetie.

“I know I asked you two to come to me before you intended to go beyond kissing,” said Rarity, “and I believe you’ve not gone any further because you’ve not said anything to me, and I trust you. And I told you Sweetie Belle that we’d have the talk concerning how sex between two mares works. I think we should have those talks now.”

The girls looked at each other then at Rarity. They looked scared and excited.

“You’ve read the books I gave you, so you know the workings of the physical side. How it’s done, so to say.

There’s really not much more I could add, it’s always been trial and error. And to be honest with you, that’s the most fun part.

You’ll be tempted to explore each other, this is natural because you’re at the line between adolescent and adult.

But there’s something the books don’t cover. And that’s no matter what the relationship is. Either just casual or deeply committed, there’s an emotional and personal side which can’t be explained in a book. And it mustn’t be overlooked.

Kissing is just the tip of the iceberg. Kissing doesn’t have to lead to anything further and some can kiss without connection or involvement. It doesn’t really change your life.

Sex, on the other hoof, is totally different. A lot of fillies and colts have had their first ‘experience’ after dances like this. I’m not going to tell you not to, and I’m not going to tell you go ahead. This is something you must decide for yourselves.

So I’m going to tell you two important things.

First, once you’ve had sex, once you lose you virginity, and having sex between two mares counts, it can never be the same. You can’t get it back, once lost it’s lost forever. And I say mares because if this is an option in your relationship, if you’ve even considered it, then you’re no longer fillies. And I’m proud of the level of control you’ve shown with each other. So remember, if you’re going to lose your virginity, make sure it’s with a pony you’ll not regret you lost it with them. It’s truly a wonderful gift to give a pony, don’t waste it.

Second, sex is an intensely personal and intimate thing. Once you’ve had sex with a pony, it changes everything. You can never just be friends again. No matter how casual a pony tries to be, the act involves lowering almost every barrier we build to protect our private self. You’re sharing your very body with another pony. During the act, you become one. And after, they take away a part of you and you them. Make sure it’s a pony you want to be a part of forever.

Promise me you’ll at least think about this before you decide to do anything.”

The girls nodded.

“I know with the excitement of the dance, the arousal you can get by holding each other close as you feel the music, and feel the warmth of your partner, it can wear down even the strongest control.

There’s a couple hours between the dance and the Graduation All Night Party at Sweet Apple Acres. This is to let ponies change or just rest before the party. However, this time is often used for other activities.

With that in mind, I’m going to loan you the key to Carousel Boutique. I’m not implying I’m giving you permission to do anything, nor am I telling you not to. I’m sure if you make a choice, if you two think you’re able to handle the consequences, then I want to give you somewhere safe and clean to go if you decide to do this. Not behind some bushes on the dirty ground or in some filthy barn. My room is at your disposal, just clean up after yourselves.

Don’t tell me you don’t plan on it, because I do believe you. Its just things do happen you never intend to. Just be careful and be smart.”

Rarity wiped a tear from her eye and gave the two girls a kiss on the cheek.

“We’ll remember what you’ve said,” said Diamond Tiara.

“We promise,” continued Sweetie Belle.

The girls took their dresses and left to get ready. There was two hours until the dance, hardly enough time for teenaged girls to get ready for the biggest night of their lives, so far.

Rarity watched as they left Carousel Boutique, they gave each other a small kiss and went in different directions to go home and get ready.

Applejack walked up to Rarity, she’d been the next room, listening.

“Good advice Sugar Cube,” said AJ, “do you think they listened?”

“If Pinkie Dash were here, she’d say ‘they’re totally going to do it!’ But I’m not so sure. To have been sneaking around for as long as they have and not done anything apart from kissing, and I do believe them, you have to give them credit. But they’ll be sorely tempted tonight. I think they’ll make the right decision, even if the decision is to go that next step.”

Then Rarity said, “did you get the things I asked for Darling?”

“I did, they’re in the bedroom,” replied AJ.

“Then come upstairs with me and lend me a hoof.” Said Rarity, then almost as afterthought she kissed AJ passionately, “have I told you lately just how much I love you and depend on you.”

“You have Sugar Cube,” said AJ with a smirk, “but I’ll listen again, if’n it’ll make you feel better!”

“Oh you,” said Rarity, giving AJ a little love tap. They went upstairs together to do what Rarity had planned.

At this moment Rarity was ‘sorely tempted’ herself. Especially following AJ up the stairs with a nice view of the rippling muscles of AJ’s flanks. And with each flick of her tail, it revealed the sight of her marehood almost at Rarity’s eye level. Rarity figured if the bed might be used for love this evening, perhaps they should make sure it was working correctly.

Mr. and Mrs. Rich met Sweetie Belle at the door. The sight of Sweetie in her dress brought a smile to their faces. There was no hint of any resistance from Filthy, perhaps he really did pull his head out of his flanks. They invited Sweetie in the front room and they made small talk while waiting for Diamond to come out.

As Diamond walked into the room, Filthy and Spoiled delighted in the smile which spread on Sweetie Belle’s face. Sweetie thought Diamond had never looked prettier, she was wearing, like herself, just a touch of makeup and her matching dress. She was also wearing her tiara, which at one time was worn as an attempt to appear superior, but now she wore it to please her marefriend. Sweetie thought it did make her look like a princess, especially since she hadn’t worn it in a while.

“You girls look beautiful,” said Filthy Rich, with a genuine smile. “But there’s something missing.”

“You’re right dear,” said Spoiled Rich with a smile, “do you know what it is?”

Sweetie looked confused, but Diamond was smiling.

“I know,” said Filthy, “it’s this!”

Filthy produced a matching tiara and put gently on Sweetie Belle’s head.

“For her very own, now our girls match perfectly,” said Filthy.

Sweetie caught the meaning, she was being fully accepted as more than just their daughter’s friend. Sweetie Belle hugged Mr. and Mrs. Rich.

“Thank you for everything.” Said Sweetie.

“It’s not enough to make up for the past. And I know it’s early, but if fate takes that road, you’ll always be welcome in our family.” Said Filthy Rich with a tear in his eye.

Spoiled gave Filthy a kiss. It appeared that Filthy’s change of heart was complete enough to allow a display of affection. Filthy liked the way it felt to allow emotion and not be ashamed. Perhaps it was the reason he could never remember his father smiling.

Filthy and Spoiled both gave the girls a kiss on the cheek and admonished them to be careful and have fun. And that they’d see them at Sweet Apple Acres.

The Girls had arranged to meet at the main house at Sweet Apple Acres before going to the dance. That way they could arrive together. Their dates were to meet the fillies there.

Had you told the fillies four years ago, that they’d be going to the biggest party of their lives with the colts (and filly) they were going with, you’d have been met with a laugh. But just as the fillies had matured, so had the colts. Some had slimmed down, some had filled out and all had grown, in stature and maturity.

Featherweight was now as tall as any of the other colts. He’d the honor of escorting Scootaloo Dash, and the horror of asking Rainbow Dash for permission.

Snips had lost his baby fat and his teeth had been straightened. He was still slightly shorter than his classmates, but his attitude had changed. He was still a little bit of a joker, but he’d toned it down. He’d the pleasure of escorting Apple Bloom Apple to the dance.

Snails was still tall and lanky, but he’d filled out nicely. He was still slightly slow, but no pony could tell if he was truly slow or he was keeping up a front. But down deep he was a gentle pony who cared for his classmates. He was greatly surprised when Dinky Sparkle accepted his offer to escort her.

Shady Daze had had his eye on Silver Spoon for years. He was delighted when he heard through Diamond Tiara, Silver Spoon was waiting for him to ask her to the dance.

All the colts were waiting in the parlor at the Apple house for the girls to make their appearance. They were nervous under the eyes of the girl’s parents and relatives. Applejack and Rarity were serving light refreshments. Twilight, Muffins, Rainbow, Pinkie, Filthy, Spoiled, Hondo Flanks and Cookie Crumbles were there to see off their daughters and take pictures of the couples together.

It was the first time Rarity had a chance to ask her parents about what they thought of Sweetie Belle dating Diamond Tiara.

“I think it’s a down right shame to have two fillies dating, kissing and all,” Said Hondo Flanks.

“Father!” said Rarity looking shocked.

“Honey, he’s only pulling your leg,” said Cookie Crumbles, “he gave you away at your wedding, remember? When we met Diamond we were so delighted with Sweetie Belle’s choice, Diamond is as nice a filly as you could ask for. I could think of a lot worse choices she could’ve made.”

Apple Bloom called from the hallway.

“They’re all here!”

All the girls had come in through the kitchen door, as not to spoil the surprise.

“Come in girls,” said Rarity.

Applejack had a camera ready to catch the colt and parents’ faces when they first saw the girls in their gowns by Rarity.

Being that they already had a date, Sweetie Belle and Diamond Tiara entered first. Rarity was misty eyed to see her sister and Diamond in the gowns she’d made and wearing a bit of makeup. She thought the tiaras added a classy touch. They went and stood by Hondo Flanks, Cookie Crumbles, Filthy, Spoiled, Rarity and Applejack.

The rest of the girls filed in, one at a time, each colt couldn’t believe their eyes. They’d never seen their classmates looking this lovely. The colts had on outfits which matched the colors in their date’s gowns. All in all, there were ten young ponies who right now looked very adult.

“You all look marvelous!” said Rarity. “I’m proud of each and every one of you.”

Even Applejack was a little misty to see her daughter looking so lovely, she was misty eyed also because she now acknowledged a daughter.

“Okay y’all,” said Applejack, “I’m going to walk y’all to the dance at the Town Hall. It’s from 5:00 to 7:00. Y’all will have two hours to change, if’n you want, and be back here by 9:00 for the All Night Graduation Party. Come hungry and ready to have a good time.”

They walked through the late afternoon air, a slight breeze was blowing. The ponies of Ponyville watched as the group passed by. All the kids were feeling very special.

As they got to Town Hall, there were other couples and individuals arriving. All had the same look of excitement. Applejack left them there.

As the group entered, Miss Cheerilee and a couple other ponies that helped at the school greeted them. They were all introduced to the teachers from Ponyville High.

The band was playing, and there were a few brave ponies on the dance floor already. There were decorations of CONGRATULATIONS and GOOD LUCK everywhere. Along the wall were chairs and tables with snacks and soft drinks. The entire group thought this the grandest thing they’d ever seen.

They found some chairs together and claimed their spot. The colts offered to get their dates some refreshments. Diamond and Sweetie got up to go as well.

“No Sweetie, Diamond, we’ll go for you. You stay here with the rest of the ladies, ” said Shady Daze, “come on guys.”

The colts walked off, leaving the fillies to feel like they were something very special.

“This is so awesome!” said Scootaloo, “I’ve never had so many good things happen to me in a month!”

“I know,” said Apple Bloom. “We both got new mothers! Now we’re at the dance we’ve been waitin’ on. We graduated and now we party! We have a whole summer to look forward to.”

“A summer of friends,” said Silver Spoon, “and who knows, maybe we’ll walk away from here with new coltfriends.”

“I hope not,” said Diamond laughing.

“I’m with you,” said Sweetie Belle.

“And I’m so glad of that,” said Diamond, they exchanged a kiss.

“Well if things go right,” said Dinky, “you two might have to teach us that.”

The friends all laughed.

The guys returned with treats and drinks.

They’d barely started on the snacks when a new song started playing. Diamond took Sweetie’s hoof and they took off to the dance floor. Their friends all joined them, along with a good number of their class mates.

The sight of Sweetie Belle and Diamond Tiara dancing together gave courage to other fillies who didn’t have dates to go on the floor and have fun. Many didn’t know yet Sweetie and Diamond were a couple.

The girls occasionally did the purely female thing of having to go to the ‘Little Filly’s Room’ en mass. They were touching up their manes and/or makeup. But there was more talking than anything.

“I’m so jealous of you two.” Said Silver Spoon to Diamond and Sweetie, “I’m having a great time, but nothing like it looks with you two.”

“I think that we are having fun, don’t you Sweetie Belle?” asked Diamond.

“I’d say that’s accurate,” replied Sweetie kissing Diamond.

They all laughed.

“I wasn’t sure what it was going to be like,” said Dinky, “this is nicer than I imagined.”

“I agree,” said Scootaloo, “Featherweight is a lot more interesting than I’d thought. I don’t know if he’s just coming on to me but he says he wants to meet sometime so I can give him flying lessons.”

“And who’d have thought Snips was such a good dancer,” said Apple Bloom.

The music was spritely and they all enjoyed the dance. Then near the last half-hour, the band started to play some slow music. This brought some trepidation to many of the dates. But Diamond and Sweetie had been looking forward to this. They were the first out on the floor for the slow dances.

The feeling was Elysium, Rarity was right. With the all the dancing, Sweetie Belle found Diamond Tiara to be pleasantly warm. Diamond couldn’t help but think Sweetie was so soft. They both could smell the little perfume that they each dared to wear. Each had their head against the neck of the other, eyes closed, one foreleg around the other. They could hear the music and they could feel their partner and it was all that mattered. Occasionally they’d draw their heads back enough to look the other in the eye. Many tender ‘I love you’s’ were exchanged.

When the music stopped, they’d go back to their chairs. They needed to rest longer after the slow dancing than they did the fast.

The evening went on until Miss Cheerilee came up on stage to say how proud she’d been to teach them, and how mature they’d behaved at the dance, also the Apples had invited all to the Graduation All Night Party at Sweet Apple Acres. Then the final song was introduced, Cheerilee went to the dance floor and was met by Big Mac. All went out and joined for one last dance. There were tears as they realized what this meant.

After the song stopped, they all said goodbye to their classmates and left the building. They’d agreed to meet back at the main house at Sweet Apple Acres before going to the barn for the party. Then they all turned and went their separate ways, some alone and some as couples.

Sweetie Belle and Diamond Tiara stood there for a moment, just holding hooves and watching their friends depart. They looked in each other’s eyes. There were no questions exchanged, they started walking to Carrousel Boutique.

Sweetie Belle unlocked the door, it was dark inside but Sweetie knew it like the back of her hoof. They looked inside then at each other.

“We don’t have to do this, if you don’t want,” said Sweetie.

Her answer was a kiss and being led inside by the hoof. They locked the door and just stood inside kissing. Sweetie would stroke Diamond’s mane. Diamond would kiss Sweetie’s neck. They took the other by the hoof and Sweetie Belle let them up the stair.

The sight that met them, they weren’t ready for. There was soft light from candles, on the bed were rose pedals and one red rose on each of the two pillows. By the bed, on the nightstand, was a plate of chocolate-dipped strawberries. There were two champagne flutes and a bottle of sparkling cider on ice. The lights were dim and there was perfume in the air.

“Oh my gosh!” said Diamond.

“You can tell my sister is the romantic one,” said Sweetie Belle with a giggle.

They entered the room then after a quick kiss they started to undo their dresses.

“May I help you with that?” said Sweetie, Diamond nodded.

There was a magic aura and the dresses easily slipped off.

“I like having a Unicorn for my marefriend.” Said Diamond with a special smile. The feel of her marefriend undressing her was arousing.

They sat on the edge of the bed and ate a strawberry or two and drank some of the cider. Then they kissed and lay back on the bed.

They both were thinking of what they’d read. They also remembered Rarity said trial and error was the fun part.

They kissed more passionately than they’d ever done. Sweetie would kiss Diamond down her neck on to her chest. She got to her navel and paused, then she worked her way back up. Then Sweetie would kiss some more then Diamond kissed Sweetie the same, down to the navel then back up. They went back and forth with variations of this, then they stopped.

As they held each other close, they were trembling. Then looking in each other’s eyes, Sweetie stroked Diamond’s mane, then down her back to her tail. Sweetie then moved her hoof around Diamond’s hip and to her lower abdomen, she felt Diamond’s nipples and stroked them lightly. She paused and kissed Diamond again. Diamond looked at Sweetie and nodded her head.

Sweetie moved her hoof down between Diamond’s legs, paused then worked up the nerve and brought it to her marehood. Diamond shuddered, Sweetie lightly rubbed it on the outside. Diamond put her head against Sweetie’s shoulder and let out a little moan. Sweetie continued but this time she allowed her hoof to barely enter her partner’s marehood. At this, Diamond looked back up at Sweetie and kissed her deeply. As they kissed Sweetie felt Diamond’s hoof at her marehood. They were exploring the other as much as they could work up the nerve.

It was getting hard to think straight.

“You’re wet,” said Diamond.

“So are you. Your hoof feels so nice. You feel so nice.”

“I love you, Sweetie Belle. I love you so much!”

“I love you more than I’ve ever loved any other pony,” said Sweetie Belle.

They kissed again and again.

“Diamond, I’m feeling strange,” said Sweetie Belle.

“Me two, I think we need to stop and talk,” said Diamond, “I don’t want to, I really, really don’t. But before we go on. We should at least talk about it.”

“I agree,” said Sweetie Belle.

They both removed their hooves from the other’s marehood. They just lay back for a moment, catching their breath. They both didn’t realize how heavy their breathing had become. Then they turned and faced each other, holding the other.

“Diamond, my sister said we should be sure the pony we lose our virginity to was a pony you’d never regret losing it with. A pony you’d not be sorry you were always a part of them, and they are a part of you. I’m sure you’re that pony,” Sweetie paused.

“But I don’t know if I’m really ready to take this step. I want you more than anything I’ve ever wanted before, I really, really do. And I love you so much, and I’m sure of your love for me. But if we’re truly meant for each other, then we have plenty of time.”

There were tears in Diamond’s eyes.

“Did I say something that hurt you?” asked Sweetie.

Diamond kissed Sweetie deeply.

“No my Darling, No, I feel the same way. We don’t need to rush our love just because we had a dance and have a room now. I’m sure if you asked your sister, she’d let us use the room again.

We should get dressed and go to the party, before we can’t stop ourselves from doing what we should do at a better time.”

“I agree,” said Sweetie with a smile, “we still have time to kiss and then eat the rest of the strawberries.”

They both giggled as they kissed. They loved each other very much, and now they respected each other as much.

On their way to Sweet Apple Acres they talked about the future. How they were sure their futures were connected. They talked about what they wanted to do after they finish school, then Diamond brought up something Sweetie had thought about before.

“Sweetie, you realize we’re now fifteen. Did you know we could get married next year?”

Sweetie stopped and looked at Diamond.

“Married? You’d really want to?” asked Sweetie, “I’d thought about it but I thought I’d wait to bring it up. After all, we were not ready for sex, will we be ready for such a larger step? I guess that’ll come with time. I just wanted you know I wasn’t trying to rush anything. But I guess that’d give us at least a year to try and test our relationship. Don’t think I’m trying to avoid it. As I said, I’ve thought about it as well. And I can’t think of any other pony I’d want to spend my life with. I think I love you that much more for this!”

They stopped and kissed, it didn’t matter that they were in the middle of Ponyville or what ponies were watching.

“I’m yours forever,” said Diamond with a smile.

“And I’m yours,” replied Sweetie Belle, ”forever.”

Diamond and Sweetie entered the Apple house. The others hadn’t arrived and Rarity was sitting in the front room as if waiting on them. She couldn’t help seeing the grins on both their faces, they were truly a happy couple. She looked at the girls and raised an eyebrow;

“I see that you made use of my gift.”

“How’d you know?” asked Sweetie Belle.

“First, Diamond has a little bit of chocolate on the corner of her mouth. Second, you both have rose petals stuck in your manes.

But most importantly, in the low light...

You put on the wrong dresses.”

The girls looked at each other and all three burst out laughing.

“I think you’ve read too many Shadow Spade novels,” laughed Sweetie Belle. “But thank you sis for the beautiful room. It was a great gift. I’m sorry that we didn’t make full use of it.”

“How do you mean?”

Diamond responded;

“It’s like this, Mrs. Apple...”

Rarity stopped her;

“Strangers and children call me Mrs. Apple. Adult friends and family call me Rarity. I think you’re at least one of those, if not the other in the future.

You figured there’s enough time to be with each other and explore the depth of your love.”

“You know what we talked about?” asked Diamond.

“I didn’t, until now. I knew you’d be tempted, and even get to the ‘foreplay’ level. Didn’t it feel just as good to stimulate the other as it was to be stimulated?”

Both girls were in shock, it was if she’d been there.

“Were you watching sis?”

“No, that’s more Pinkie Dash’s thing.” Said Rarity with a wink, “but again, I didn’t know until now. But as I said before, I believed that you’d make the right choice.

I also thought if you were mature enough to make a decision with your head and heart and not your loins, you’d figure that there will be a right time in the future.

I bet you also talked about the fact that next year you’ll be sixteen, old enough for ponies to marry. Do I need to start those white matching dresses I mentioned before?”

Diamond and Sweetie Belle looked more and more dumbfounded.

“Not yet sis, but I’m sure you will in the not too distant future.”

“You’re that sure?” asked Rarity.

“No, not yet,” said Diamond, “but unless the unthinkable happens, we figure our love will continue to grow.”

“I was right to trust you two, and I look forward to the day I can make those dresses. But for now, just be there for each other and think with your heart and head, not your marehoods. The rest will follow.”

CHAPTER TEN: Party!

The Graduation All Night Party was ever more special that the Graduation Dance. At the official dance, they were still under the eyes of the school authority. Here they were still under the watchful eyes of the Apples and many of the parents, but the feeling was more at ease.

There were wonderful treats as only the Apple Family could produce. It was a fantastic party.

The more bashful and less adventurous who weld back at the official dance, were more incline to try to hold the hoof of their date. Most of whom wondered what took them so long. There were still a brave few who stole a kiss or two and got away with it.

Diamond and Sweetie would watch the couples with their feeble attempts at romance. Often they’d look at each other and comment, ‘amateurs’! But they had dignity enough not to demonstrate the correct methods among their peers. They had each other and their families fully accepted both their relationship and their pledge they’d not go further than kissing, at least not too much past.

Pinkie made sure there were lively games going most of the night.

Vinyl Scratch played all the most popular music. There was some songs thrown in for the enjoyment of the older chaperones. But she purposely limited the slow songs until near the end of the party. Not so much for fear of amorous side effects, but to keep the energy level up. But there were some thrown in for good measure. Sweetie and Diamond were so happy when one started. They did notice that here, the ponies were more likely to dance these slow ones, even the ponies who were too timid to at the official dance.

Once again, Diamond and Sweetie delighted in the feeling of their partner close and warm. They knew this is the feeling they wanted to feel forever. But they knew it’d be some time before they could actually be married, they realized a year would be too soon.

Both sets of their parents were there to oversee the party, along with Rarity and Applejack. Sweetie and Diamond had talked with each other and they had a proposition for their families.

They got their parents and Rarity and AJ to one side to ask.

“Mom, dad, sis, Applejack,” said Sweetie Belle, “Mr. and Mrs. Rich, we have a question we’d like to ask.”

“You know we love each other very much,” continued Diamond, “we know we’re not old enough to marry yet.”

“Yes, and…” Said Filthy.

“We don’t want to sneak around like we did in the past, and we want you to be able to trust us,” said Sweetie Belle, “we want to let you know we swear we’ll never go past kissing until we are older and married, if that’s what happens. We promise this no matter what your answer is. But we would like to have your permission to stay with each other from time to time.”

“We totally respect whatever decision you make. And promise whatever you say we’ll honor it,” Said Diamond.

“You two have been respectful and reserved.” Said Filthy, “I think we could respect your word until proven otherwise. What do you think, Hondo Flanks?”

“I think I wish there were more kids out there who were as open and trustworthy. I’d have no problem with them staying with each other. At least they’d be where they could be monitored,” replied Hondo Flanks.

“What do you think ladies?” asked Filthy.

“I’m proud they had the nerve to approach us with this,” said Spoiled. “They could’ve been deceitful and went about with stories of ‘sleepovers’ and did whatever unsupervised. I applaud their honesty.”

“And I’d not mind an extra daughter around the home. If they do hangout at our homes, then they should be expected to behave as part of the family, chores and all,” said Cookie Crumbles. “I think that’s where they’re headed anyway. And we have all summer to test this.”

“I agree,” said Rarity, “I think we should put them to work to earn their keep. If they want to live like adults, then they need to act like adults.”

The girls thought they’d burst, they never expected it to be this easy.

“But!” interjected Filthy, “if we find the trust is broken, all agreements are off. And you both will be under extreme scrutiny until you’re out of school and on your own.”

Then Filthy smiled and added, “But I don’t think it’d ever come to that.”

“Enough of this ‘grown up’ stuff tonight,” said AJ, “just enjoy this for now, it’s your party. Maybe we can all meet tomorrow for dinner and talk ’bout how we’d work this.”

All agreed to this and the girls enjoyed the rest of the night feeling like they were in Elysium. They had the party, they had the backing of their parents and they had each other.

PART TWO OF: AND THE CHILDREN SHALL LEAD. Passing the Torch

Four years after PART ONE OF: AND THE CHILDREN SHALL LEAD

CHAPTER ONE: Joy and Sadness

Four years later…

The graduation from High School was grander than from Primary School, as it should’ve been. It was now barely a week since the festivities. There hadn’t been a lot of trials these last four years. The six friends had the time of their relatively carefree lives.

No matter the changes, the six friends stayed close. There were coltfriends that came and went, but Diamond Tiara and Sweetie Belle stayed constant in their relationship.

Sweetie Belle and Diamond Tiara’s friends were all taking the summer off before whatever.

Scootaloo was following in Rainbow’s hoofsteps. She was learning the art of the weather, plus she was learning magic from her other mother, Pinkie. Twilight was so impressed she gave extra lessons as well.

Dinky was happy to learn magic and library science from her mothers. She and Scootaloo took the magic training very seriously. So much so they often would end up having to spend the night at one of their homes together because of the lateness of their studies.

Silver Spoon was going to take education courses, and do student teaching at Ponyville School with Mrs. Cheerilee Apple, especially with the foal on the way.

Apple Bloom had continued to learn from Zecora and was making the zebra very pleased with her progress.

Diamond and Sweetie worked all they could in getting ready for adult life. So much so, the last year of school, they were staying with each other’s families quite a bit. They’d stay with the Rich’s for a week or so and then they’d stay with Sweetie’s parents and occasionally with the Apples. For Sweetie Belle, there were magic lessons with Twilight, Diamond had insisted. But during the off times; after school, or lessons or on non-school days, they’d help out at Rich’s Barnyard Bargains, or help Rarity at the Carousel Boutique. As they did, something not quite expected happened.

Sweetie Belle, who was always good with music and singing, found her talent for improvisation allowed her to think creatively when it came to business. She was able to help the Rich’s to make Barnyard Bargains more profitable. She also found ways to increase sales and lower operating costs. Yet every time Filthy tried to pay her, she refused to accept it. She said with them treating her as part of the family, before it was official, was payment enough. But they did make it up to her by feeding her and even covering the cost of her and Diamond’s movie outings and even some weekend trips to Canterlot or Manehatten. Diamond was always happy to help in the family business, and was even happier to work along side Sweetie Belle.

The girls were shocked when Filthy Rich just laughed off the time they were caught in the stockroom kissing.

“Why do you think you have to hide it back here?” he said and just shook his head laughing, “Do you think there’s a pony in Ponyville who doesn’t know what you two do!”

Diamond Tiara on the other hoof, found her taste in fashion was put to good use at the Carousel Boutique. Rarity had noticed how Diamond had a flair for knowing what direction the younger set’s taste was going.

After a couple times of making some very valid suggestions to Rarity, Diamond was put before Rarity’s drawing table and asked to design something on her own.

Had Rarity been wearing socks, they’d have been knocked off. Rarity had Diamond go right to work and make the garment. It was hardly on the dress form in the window before it was out the door.

Rarity also found Diamond had a knack for sewing intricate details, she was able to do these things without the sewing machine, and without magic.

Diamond also refused any compensation from Rarity, she said her being trained by one of the best designers in Equestria and acceptance by Rarity and Applejack’s families was payment enough.

It appeared the girls were indeed going to follow in the family business, just not the ones they might’ve thought. But after all, when they married, the families would be united.

Applejack and Rarity Apple, Filthy and Spoiled Rich, Hondo Flanks and Cookie Crumbles had invited the girls to a dinner at one of the nicest restaurants in Ponyville. It was time to put plans in place for the wedding that Sweetie and Diamond had so patiently and almost painfully waited for. With the wedding two weeks off, the time was getting short.

The Rich’s insisted on paying the tab for the wedding, but the Apples were able to convince the future in-laws they’d handle the catering.

Rarity had kidded in the past about having to make matching wedding dresses in the future. In fact, she was thrilled she’d be doing it for her dear ‘little’ sister and her fiancée. Filthy Rich had contacted Twilight Sparkle to do the ceremony.

The talk went to what the girls planned to do after the wedding. They were not really wanting to go anywhere or do anything in particular. They had almost excruciatingly resisted sex for four years. To consummate their love at last was their only goal, and they were unashamedly open about it.

It’d been assumed that the two girls were going to be married after high school. And everypony ran with that idea. But Spoiled Rich had brought some gifts for the girls from her jewelry shop.

“Girls,” said Spoiled, “if you’re going to do this, it needs to be done right. You can open the gift box that’s by your plate.”

The girls opened the box and there was a sparkling diamond ring in each. There were ooh’s and ahh’s from the gathered.

“They’re beautiful mom,” said Diamond. “But I think you gave us the wrong one.”

“How so?” responded Spoiled.

“You gave me a Unicorn ring and you gave Sweetie an Earth Pony ring.”

“Well duh!” said Spoiled. “the two of you have worked hard at this for the last four years. And we’re so happy for you. But I’m afraid something is missing. And if not taken care of, there can be no wedding!”

The girls looked shocked, but the adults snickered.

“Sugar Cubes,” said Applejack, “those are engagement rings.”

The two girls faces lit up as they realized what Spoiled was saying.

The two took the rings from the boxed and offered it to their love.

“Will you marry me?” said the two together.

“Yes,” they replied.

Sweetie Belle’s pale green aura took the Earth Pony ring and placed it on Diamond’s left fore hoof. Rarity’s blue aura took the Unicorn ring and assisted Diamond to put it on Sweetie’s horn. The two looked into each other’s eyes and then kissed passionately.

The rest of the gathered applauded the two.

After hugs all around, they got back to the talk about the wedding plans.

“So Sweetie, have you and Diamond decided what you’re going to do about living arrangements after the wedding?” asked Filthy.

“Or have you girls even thought about it?” asked Rarity.

Diamond looked at Sweetie, there were sheepish looks on their faces.

“We haven’t talked about it. It’s been so easy for us just to be together, it hadn’t even crossed our minds. I guess living the rest of our lives with families wouldn’t be the best arrangement,” said Sweetie Belle.

“I guess it’s something we need to talk about, the wedding is less than a month away,” continued Diamond.

Rarity smiled at Filthy Rich, he nodded to Applejack.

“Livin’ with family ain’t a bad option, if’n necessary. The Apples have always done that, for the most part. Cheerilee moved in the big house with Big Mac after their weddin’ and there’s plenty of room, even with a foal on the way.

But we’ve something for y’all to think ’bout.” Said AJ.

“Sweetie Belle, Diamond Tiara,” said Cookie Crumbles, “your father and I1 have decided we’re going to provide you with everything you’ll need to run a household kitchen. All the pots and pans, plates, cups and flatware.”

“And your mother and I’ve decided,” said Filthy, “we’re going to provide the house hold furnishings, a bed, bedroom furniture plus living room and dining room furniture.”

“The Apple Family will be givin’ you rugs, linens and towels. Plus Granny Smith has been working on a quilt the last four years for you.” Said AJ, “it appears everythin’ you need to start a household is goin’a be provided.”

“Thank you so very much!” exclaimed Diamond.

“We can never thank you enough!” said Sweetie Belle, then turning to Diamond, “I guess we’d better find our own home now.”

“Before you do,” said Rarity, “we’ve a proposition.”

The girls looked intently.

“Applejack, Apple Bloom and I move to our cottage during the fashion seasons, and back to the farm when it’s planting and harvest time. The apartment above Carousel Boutique remains mostly unused. If the two of you want, it’s yours at no cost, as long as you keep it up and as long as you’re working with us.

I said with us, not for us.

After all, you’re family to all of us, or will be soon. And as family, there’re more responsibilities and expectations in a family business than just what an employee would have.

And that’s as it should be.

We know you’ve been working for Filthy and me without any compensation. With you having your own household you’re going to have to allow us to pay you a fair wage for your labor. You’re adults now and you’re going to have to live that way.”

Diamond and Sweetie were stunned, this wasn’t anything they expected. There were tears in the girls eyes and there were hugs all around.

“Sweetie Belle, Diamond Tiara, we’re so proud of both of you. You’ve behaved as adults for the last four years while your friends were still adolescence.” Said Hondo Flanks with a smile. “We all know about the room Rarity provided for you after the Primary School Graduation Dance, and we know what didn’t happen. We couldn’t ask for daughters better than you’ve been and how you’ve behaved.”

“I do have one more thing to ask you,” said Filthy, “this is especially for you Sweetie Belle. I’ve talked to your mother and father, also your sister and Applejack. They all said they were okay with it. Understand, it’s not necessary, but I hope you’ll think about it.

Your family, Sweetie, is like a lot of families in Equestria. Unlike my family, they have no family name that’s passed on. So I wanted to know if you’d do us the honor, proving you’ve truly forgiven my past sins, of taking the family name of ‘Rich’ when you marry?”

Sweetie Belle got up and went to Filthy and Spoiled. She hugged them tightly.

“I’d be honored.” Sweetie then looked at them and smiled, “but Diamond and I’ve already decided on it.”

This brought a smile to Filthy and a tear to his eyes.

“This has been a wonderful night,” said Rarity, “you and your friends need to come see me so I can finish your dresses.”

“Enough of this serious talk,” said Spoiled. “Let us have dessert and enjoy the rest of this evening.”

That wasn’t to be...

The late train from Appleloosa pulled into the station at Ponyville. Braeburn and Caramel collected their bags. There was also one large, long box, which was put on a cart to be delivered to a prearranged address. Nopony at home was expecting them, the news hadn‘t reached the Apple Family yet. They hired a taxi from where they took the box to Sweet Apple Acres.

The Apples, Richs, Rarity and Sweetie’s parents and the girls were leaving the restaurant when they saw Apple Bloom galloping at full tilt!

“Mama! Mama!” shouted Apple Bloom.

“What’s up baby?” replied AJ.

“It’s Braeburn and Caramel!” said Apple Bloom, “they’re here from Appleloosa. They said they need to talk to the family. I was told to get Twilight, Pinkie and Rainbow too. They didn’t say why, but they looked terrible.”

Rarity turned to the girls.

“Go home with the Richs please, they’re closer. If we need you, we’ll know where to find you.”

“Send for us if there’s anything we can do,” Said Filthy Rich.

“Same here,” said Hondo Flanks.

Half an hour later, Twilight, Muffins, Pinkie, Rainbow and the Apples; Applejack, Rarity, Big Mac and Apple Bloom were in the front room of the main house. Granny Smith and Cheerilee were in the back with Caramel and Braeburn.

Cheerilee walked Caramel into the room, Braeburn and Granny followed. Caramel looked especially terrible. He was leaning on Cheerilee, it appeared he’d been crying hard. Cheerilee helped Caramel to a chair.

“Thank you for coming, family and friends. I don’t know how to say this,” started Braeburn.

“What’s wrong?” asked Twilight, “has something happened with Fluttershy?”

At the question, Caramel broke down crying hard again. All the ponies took it as a bad sign.

“Yesterday was the Annual Buffalo Stampede. It’s become a spectacle where all the town turns out to cheer them on.

Caramel, Fluttershy and I were watching from the side. When suddenly a small bunny ran out in the road. The buffalo were approaching fast. You know Fluttershy, we tried to stop her but she flew off to save the bunny. Just as she reached it, it took off in another direction. Fluttershy tried to turn hard but she must have stalled.”

Braeburn paused, he was about to loose it.

“She hit the ground hard (sob), it must have stunned her (sob)...

She couldn’t (sob) get out of the way (sob) in time. It was too late (sob) for the buffalo in front to stop (sob) and the ones (sob) behind didn’t know what (sob) was going on.

It was quick (sob), the doctor said that he doubted she felt it.” Braeburn couldn’t hold back any longer.

“Noooooooo!” screamed Pinkie Dash. Falling to her knees, tears pouring.

Rarity fainted, for real.

Muffins took Twilight’s hoof, she couldn’t tell who’s hoof was shaking worse, Twilight was deathly pale.

Rainbow was trying to calm Pinkie, but her own tears were pouring.

Applejack was crying while holding Rarity, trying to revive her.

Apple Bloom held her cousin Braeburn while Cheerilee worked to comfort Caramel.

“We just sent her body to the Ponyville Undertaker.” Said Braeburn who couldn’t keep it together any longer.

There were mass tears, everypony was trying to comfort everypony else.

The first of the six was gone.

A lot of ponies came to the memorial service from all over Equestria. Fluttershy’s reputation for compassion and her fame as the wielder of the Element of Kindness was known far and wide. Princess Celestia was there to officiate. All of Fluttershy’s friends gave their best memories of the shy pony.

But to the surprise of many, the speaker who moved the ponies the most was Discord. He related how if not for Fluttershy, he would still be stone and not know how important friendship was. With tears, he swore before Celestia he would dedicate himself to carry on the work of friendship and kindness Fluttershy had taught him.

Then with his magic, Discord produced a statue to Fluttershy as a monument.

Sweetie Belle and Diamond Tiara told Twilight Sparkle after the memorial service for Fluttershy, they were thinking of postponing the wedding. They knew how they and the ponies around them had been affected by the loss of a beloved pony like Fluttershy.

“Listen girls,” said Twilight, “I can appreciate the gesture. But I also know Fluttershy wouldn’t want you to do that because of her. She was probably the most loving and caring pony who’s ever lived. Love was important to her, and she’d have wanted the two of you to have your love completed.

If you want to honor Fluttershy, let loving each other be the most important thing in your lives.

But I don’t believe that will be a problem.”

“Thank you Mrs. Sparkle,” said Diamond, “we will.”

“I know you will, and my friends call me Twilight.” She said with a proud smile.

The evening before the wedding rehearsal, Pinkie threw the girls a bacheloret party. There was a lot of difference between this and regular Pinkie Parties. The guest list was all mares who were close to the couple, including the brides’ mothers; Spoiled Rich and Cookie Crumbles. Also Applejack and Rarity Apple, Twilight and Muffins Sparkle, Rainbow and Pinkie Dash, Bon-Bon and Lyra Heartstrings, Octavia Melody and Vinyl Scratch.

Then there were; Silver Spoon, Dinky Sparkle, Scootaloo Dash and Apple Bloom Apple. Being the brides maids, they had to make sure that the brides were having a good time.

They played games, some innocent and a some naughty. But all in all, a good time was had by all.

Pinkie was going to have some hot dancing stallions there, but Rainbow reminded her the brides were two females, although they were not mare-lovers, they probably wouldn’t be interested in seeing stallions strutting around. Pinkie thought about some dancing mares. But again Rainbow had to point out that Spoiled and Cookie Crumbles were interested only in stallions as were the younger girls so they’d not be impressed. Except for herself, Bon-Bon and Lyra, the others, although being married to mares, were not mare-lovers. But Rainbow knew Pinkie would’ve enjoyed either.

In fact, Lyra once asked Pinkie if she ever decided to come clean about truly being a mare-lover, Pinkie replied;

‘I’m not a mare-lover, but I have sex all the time with a mare who is!’

That was a good enough answer for Lyra, and she never asked again.

During the party there were the gifts.

They opened matching boxes from Pinkie and Rainbow, in each was a gold spoon with a pink bow. The girls just looked at Pinkie.

“Believe me, in a couple days you two are going to be alone without having to hold back any more. And you’re going to want to, as the saying goes, ‘eat each other with a spoon’,” the pink pony said with a smile. “We just wanted to make sure you were ready for it!”

All the married mares got a good laugh out to it, but the girls just looked lost. They didn’t remember anything from any of the books.

But they understood later!

Bon-Bon had made chocolates which looked like anatomically correct marehoods on a stick.

“Hey! Don’t you think they look just like me,” Lyra said, turning around and moving her tail to one side and relaxing the muscles. “I was the model.”

The younger girls didn’t know what to do. But the rest of the adults, including the brides and their mothers got a chuckle out of it.

The candies were then passed out to all. Although a few of the younger girls were a bit squeamish.

Then Bon-Bon told them she had a game for the brides;

“Okay, the one who get to the stick first wins,” said Bon-Bon. “Here’s the rules, obviously you can lick them or suck on them. But no biting, that wouldn’t be nice!”

“See, I told you!” said Muffins, loud enough to make Twilight blush.

The girls chuckled and started to put the confection to their mouth to comply with the instructions, then Bon-Bon spoke back up.

“Stop! You can’t do it like that! If you could, you wouldn’t need to get married!”

More laughs.

“I know this is all new to you but you have to put yours in front of your partners face, they have to eat yours!” Said Bon-Bon with a wicked smile and gleam in her eyes.

This incited a lot of laughs, even from the more squeamish. But the brides got the idea and they proceeded to make a show of it. They both got to the stick at the same time.

“Good!” said Bon-Bon, “that’s how it should work!"

All cheered and laughed.

Rarity and AJ gave Diamond and Sweetie some very sexy and sheer negligées Rarity had made. Rarity joked that she didn’t know why she even bothered to make them, she doubted that they’d get worn anytime soon.

More blushes and laughs.

As the couple expected, Twilight and Muffins gave them some books. When they were unwrapped, they saw it was their own copies of the books Rarity had first shared with them four years ago.

There was also one they’d never seen before. The authors had signed it. The title was Understanding the Mysteries of Unicorn Horn Sex by Twilight and Muffins Sparkle. Twilight warned they should get used to what’s in the other books before they even attempted it. And if they had any questions, see Princess Luna, she was always eager to talk of such things and might even volunteer to demonstrate.

The rest of the gifts were nonsense and naughty items that brought a laugh to all.

The next day was the rehearsal, it was noticed there were no ‘Best Mares’. It was explained they didn’t want to choose one friend over the other. And so it was pointed out Sweetie was Diamond’s Best Mare and vice-a-versa.

The other thing noticed was Twilight was having trouble with speaking. She said she’d a bit of a sore throat, but it’d be okay.

The wedding party had a nice rehearsal dinner at Ponyville’s best restaurant, thanks to the Richs. Most of the brides’ friends had never had such a fine dinner. After dessert, the parents reminded everypony that they had a big day ahead and they needed to get some rest.

Author's Note

1 ‘Mother and father’ was a generic title by this time. Both girls called Hondo Flanks, Cookie Crumbles, Filthy and Spoiled, mom and dad. It didn’t matter to which set of parents they were addressing. The parents were thrilled at this, having two loving daughters were better than just one.

CHAPTER TWO: Following Ritual

In spite of neither pony being a ‘groom’, and they’d be wearing matching gowns, the couple announced they’d be spending their last single night alone at home.

The wedding was at Sweet Apple Acres, the large area in front of the barn was decorated and cleaned for the occasion, as was the barn for the reception. There were two pavilions at the back on either side for the brides to get ready. The podium was centered on the great doors of the barn, Twilight Sparkle stood there ready. There were rows of seat cushions full of family and friends. And background music provided by Vinyl Scratch, she stood ready for a sign to start the wedding march.

In either pavilion, both brides thought they’d burst. Silver Spoon and Dinky Sparkle were keeping Diamond Tiara occupied, while Apple Bloom Apple and Scootaloo Dash kept Sweetie Belle from stressing out. The brides’ fathers were there with them, it was a toss up if Hondo Flanks or Filthy Rich had the most tears in their eyes.

As a signal all was ready, the mothers of the brides were seated. Silver Spoon escorted Spoiled Rich and Apple Bloom escorted Cookie Crumbles to their seats.

The music started, Silver Spoon and Apple Bloom processed up the aisle, next came Dinky Sparkle and Scootaloo Dash. When in place, Vinyl paused the music. All looked back. Hondo Flanks and Filthy walked out of the pavilions and met in the middle. Filthy nodded to Vinyl. The familiar sounds of the wedding march started. Dawn Sparkle came walking down the aisle spreading rose petals as she went. It’d been impressed on the little filly not to snack on too many them.

Then Diamond Tiara and Sweetie Belle left the pavilion and met their fathers. Both brides thought how beautiful the other was and how lucky they were at this moment. They processed to the front, each grinning so hard it almost hurt.

They stopped at the front, the fathers kissed their daughters and handed their hoof to the other.

All sat and as attention was turned to the front.

Twilight looked like she was trying to say something, but nopony heard anything. There was a distressed look on her face, whisperings were heard from the audience. Twilight looked out and beckoned for a pony. Rainbow Dash came up, Twilight said something in the Pegasus’ ear, Rainbow nodded and turned to address the assembly.

“Regrettably, Twilight isn’t able to properly officiate, she asks your pardon. She says she foresaw this and made arrangements.”

Both Twilight and Rainbow walked off to the side. There were more murmurs from the crowd. The murmurs turned to sounds of approval as out from the barn came Princess Luna, in full royal regalia. Diamond and Sweetie were in (pleasant) shock. All were quiet except for Dawn who shouted;

“Auntie Luna!”

Luna smiled and winked at the filly.

“My most dearly beloved subjects,” the princess started. “I was approached by Lady Twilight Sparkle and made aware of this beautiful couple. They’ve stuck by each other for years now. Through a very hard time and good ones as well. There are none who can doubt their love for each other.

And through all this, they’ve maintained their purity as a pledge to each other and to their families to prove the high quality of their love.

They have waited for the proper time and the proper place.”

Luna paused and smiled greatly.

“I remind them now that I am the Princess of the Night, and my domain includes all the rituals of the night. This includes the oldest and most important ritual of the night; that of love.

And so, as to give them my blessings for these rituals and for a happy life, I’ve the great honor to ask.”

Turning to Sweetie Belle;

“Do you, Sweetie Belle take Diamond Tiara Rich 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!” said Sweetie, hardly able to contain herself! It was really happening!

Then the princess turned to Diamond;

“Do you, Diamond Tiara Rich take Sweetie Belle 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,” said Diamond, still in awe of such an important pony performing her wedding.

“Then if there isn’t anything else” said Luna.

“May we say something, Your Highness?” asked Diamond.

“Of course, My Dear.” Said Luna.

Diamond and Sweetie turned and looked out on everypony.

“Sweetie and I wanted to ask you, our friends and family, to take a moment to remember a pony who can’t be here.” Said Diamond, “it was pointed out to us there was never a pony that love meant more to than Fluttershy Apple. So we’d like to ask for a moment of silence in her memory as we dedicate our love to her memory, forever.”

There was a silence only punctuated by a sniff or two from those moved to tears. Diamond and Sweetie, noticed the smiles of approval from Fluttershy’s closest friends.

The couple turned back to Luna who smiled at the gesture and said low;

“Nicely done!”

Then the princess continued out loud;

“The rings please.”

Silver Spoon took out a Unicorn ring, while Apple Bloom brought out an Earth Pony ring. These were enveloped in Luna’s dark blue aura and lifted before her.

“These rings I place on you as a sign of your union and a sign of the blessings of the Princess of the Night.”

The rings vanished and reappeared on the proper bride.

“In the name of the Crown and of Our August Self, We declare you wed. What We join together, let no pony sunder!

You may kiss your bride.”

Luna addressed the gathering;

“May I be the first to introduce Mrs. Diamond Tiara and Mrs. Sweetie Belle Rich!”

Diamond and Sweetie thought it was the greatest kiss they’d ever gave/received. They didn’t hear the music, they didn’t hear the cheering. They only heard their hearts pounding. They broke the kiss and smiled. Before they turned to go back down the aisle, Princess Luna spoke to them and said with a wink;

“You not only have my permission, but may consider it now a Royal Command.

And if there’re any other questions, or if you need help for this first time, just let me know. I’ll be in Ponyville until morning.”

They all laughed as Sweetie and Diamond led the wedding party to the barn for the reception.

There was a table for the wedding party with Diamond and Sweetie in the center. Ponies lined up to congratulate them, after the family came the parents and sisters of their friends. They got the biggest surprise when it came Twilight and Muffins Sparkle’s turn.

“Congratulation Mrs. and Mrs. Rich,” said Twilight in a normal voice.

“Twilight! There isn’t anything wrong with your voice,” said Sweetie Belle.

Twilight smiled and said;

“What? you didn’t like my wedding present? I thought you’d not mind having the princess whom married your sister and Applejack to do your ceremony,” said Twilight.

“Why let them have all the fun,” asked Muffins.

Sweetie Belle and Diamond Tiara got up and hugged Twilight and Muffins.

“Thank you so much,” said Diamond and Sweetie.

The party was the best Sweetie and Diamond had ever had. They were the center of attention. There were gifts to start their new life together. There were gifts of art and gifts of more practical items. The food was spectacular and the cake was to die for.

After a time came the ‘first dance’. The center of the floor was cleared, Octavia brought out her cello and Lyra Heartstrings brought out her lyre. They played a love ballad as Diamond and Sweetie took the floor.

Dances had become important to them, Indirectly, it was a dance that brought their love to light. There wasn’t anything either mare knew which felt better than holding the other close while they danced. At least nothing they’d experienced yet.

Then came the tap on the shoulders, there were Hondo and Filthy to dance with their daughters. Both brides were so happy, then something unexpected happened. Their fathers stopped after a time and switched brides. The two girls had spent so much time with either family, it only felt right.

Vinyl Scratch called out all were welcome to join them.

Then they did something which was new tradition in Equestria, the families had let the guests know ahead of time there’d be a ‘Bit Dance’. Each bride had a purse and if you wanted a dance with one of the brides, you’d drop a bit or more into their purse. This was just another type of wedding gift to covered any needs they hadn’t received.

Everypony was also surprised to see that Princess Luna had stayed and was mingling with all the ponies. She had a dance with both brides and even paid for it. She was seen talking to Dr. Time Turner Hooves, Muffins’ brother, a lot. Surprisingly they were also spending time with Lyra and Bon-Bon Heartstrings.

As the party started to wind down, Princess Luna on a cue from the brides’ families called for everypony’s attention. The families were slipping out to meet the brides at Carousel Boutique.

“MY LOVING SUBJECTS,” she said in her Royal Canterlot Voice, then toned it down. “I’m sure you like We do, wish all the best to the brides. But we are wearing on their time and We are sure they have something better planned for this evening.”

There were a large amounts of laughs, Diamond and Sweetie blushed but smiled.

“And so,” continued the princess, “the Brides must now take their leave of us. They’ll find Our personal cart waiting for them to conduct them to their new home. We’ll be here among you, my beloved Ponyvillians for as long as you like.”

Every pony cheered. The girls hugged and kissed their friends and extended family. Even Princess Luna gave the two a hug and a kiss of blessing on the forehead. The girls made their way to the doors. There indeed was Princess Luna’s cart drawn by four dragon-winged Pegasi.

“The bouquets!” called the ladies from the crowd.

Sweetie and Diamond turned their backs to the crowd, and threw the flowers over their shoulders as they climbed on the cart and rode away. Single mares and fillies dove for them, but Diamond and Sweetie didn’t want to wait any longer to see who got them.

There were cheers of ‘Good Luck’ and ‘We Love You’ as they rode away.

The cart stopped at Carrousel Boutique and the brides climbed off, then the cart left. There stood their families, everypony smiling like never before.

Rarity came forward to talk to them.

“As promised, the apartment above the boutique is yours. Big Mac installed a locking door at the bottom of the stair to preserve your privacy. Here are keys to the boutique and here are keys to your apartment.

You’re now equal partners in all our family’s endeavors. When you said ‘I do’ that officially ended you ever being considered fillies again. You’re now adults, and we here hope between the six of us, we’ve guided you properly, but the real credit is yours. If your friends are half the responsible adults you are, they’ll do well.

You’ll now be expected to pull your weight, not that you’ve haven’t. But that means working any schedule agreed upon. However, I think I can give Diamond a couple days off to get everything together, then I’ll see you at work bright and early in two days. I’ve put a sign on the front door saying all business for the boutique will be handled from my shop at the cottage. Less chance of any accidental intrusions.”

“And here’s the key to Rich’s Barnyard Bargains,” said Filthy to Sweetie, “If Rarity can give Diamond a couple days off, I guess I can give you the time off too.”

Everypony laughed. Rarity, Applejack and the rest of the family hugged and kissed the two, they unlocked the door, waved at the family and went inside. They closed and locked the door.

They just stood there kissing for a moment. It felt very familiar. They went to the new door, went through and locked it, just to make sure. They made their way up the stair, hoof in hoof. At the top, what they beheld brought smiles to their faces. There in the bedroom was all their new furniture, but the room had been decorated like this once before. The air was scented with perfume, there were candles, rose petals on the bed and a red rose on each pillow. On the bed side table was a plate of chocolate-dipped strawberries, there were two champagne flutes and this time it was a bottle of champagne on ice. By it was a simple note from Rarity;

I hope you make full use of my gift this time.

“I think my sister is trying to tell us something,” said Sweetie Belle with a giggle.

“I think it’s the same thing that Princess Luna was telling us,” said Diamond.

There was a look in Diamond’s eyes. Sweetie understood the unspoken message.

“I guess with all the concern for us,” said Sweetie with the same look in her eyes, “we shouldn’t disappoint them. What do you think, Mrs. Rich?”

“I’d have to agree, Mrs. Rich,” said Diamond.

The new names and titles thrilled them.

Even with Sweetie’s magic, it felt as if they couldn’t get the wedding dresses off fast enough. They did take enough time to eat a couple strawberries and have some of the champagne.

They laid back on the bed and kissed the kisses of pure hunger. Four plus years of restraint was gone, and the loss was so welcome.

Sweetie broke the kiss and looked into her wife’s blue eyes.

“I’m afraid,” said Sweetie, stroking Diamond’s violet and white mane.

There was a look of concern in Diamond’s eyes.

“Of what, My Love?” said Diamond, gazing in Sweetie’s green eyes.

“What if this isn’t what we thought?” said Sweetie, “what if we worked ourselves up over nothing?”

“Have you been happy with me for the last four years,” asked Diamond.

“More than anything!” said Sweetie, “I couldn’t live without you now.”

“Then if there isn’t anything to this except a lot of made up stories, we still have each other.” Said Diamond, suddenly Sweetie felt a hoof on her marehood, “but I truly think it’ll not be a problem.”

Sweetie gasped at Diamond’s touch, she renewed the kiss with even more gusto. Then with Diamond’s hoof stimulating her, Sweetie started to work the kiss down Diamond’s neck, enjoying every inch of her pink coat.

Maneuvering herself where she could still kiss her new wife yet allow Diamond to continue her contact as long as possible, Sweetie made it to the old stopping point of the navel. She only dwelt there a moment before continuing on to ‘unexplored territory’.

Diamond’s nipples were there on her route down. These Sweetie had felt and stroked them on many occasions but for fear of going too far, she’d never been this close. Lightly she licked them, noticing how erect they became.

Diamond let out a moan like Sweetie had never heard from her lover before. Sweetie then, with all the determination of four years of chastity joyfully ended, continued on. Diamond spread her legs to give Sweetie full access.

Diamond felt Sweetie move into position between her legs, then Sweetie’s forelegs slipped under Diamond’s flanks for support and to make access more comfortable.

There before her was the ‘promised land’. The light pink of Diamond’s coat accentuated the slightly darker pink of her marehood. Of course Sweetie had seen the outside of it many times, how could she not and live with, sleep with or shower with her Darling love for the last year. But never like this, never this close, and never under these conditions, where all restraint has been removed.

Now it was there in front of her muzzle, she could feel Diamond tremble with yearning for Sweetie to take the next step.

In reading the books and getting what information she could out of her sister, Sweetie had never even thought of the qualities of smell and taste. Right now, it didn’t matter, Sweetie could see how wet her bride had become in anticipation.

Sweetie decided that this wasn’t the time to over think this.

Diamond was feeling overcome with waves of pure desire born of hundreds of nights of holding back her craving for a pony who was the center of her universe.

A pony, when she remembered how she used to treat her and her friends, she felt unworthy of the love being poured out on her without condition or reserve. How could she not return the same love to her? Now that same pony had taken the steps to please her first. She couldn’t tell if the tears in her eyes were from joy or from the last remnant of shame for past treatment.

Without any other pause, Sweetie Bell spread Diamond’s marehood with her magic. It glistened with the wetness born of anticipation and arousal. The very sight was making her own marehood wet. Sweetie could feel the yearning that she was sure that Diamond was feeling right now and she wasn’t about to disappoint. Sweetie moved the last couple inches and plunged her tongue into Diamond. The feeling made Diamond gasp and her hips twitch.

Sweetie remember from the books what the proper technique for this was and where to concentrate her efforts. But she also felt an innate yearning ‘down there’ on herself. This was as much her guide.

But what the books didn’t say was the intense pleasure she herself was now feeling. The excitement of the most intimate part of her lover, so long denied to her now laid bare, willingly before her. Begging to have done what Sweetie was now doing.

An act five or so years ago would’ve been to her mind unthinkable or even dirty or disgusting. But now love had changed everything.

When she was little, she dreamed of the perfect colt, who’d carry her away just like in books Rarity used to read to her. The thought of being in love with girls was ludicrous. But now, Sweetie reasoned she wasn’t in love with girls. The thought of being in this position with any other mare had no appeal. At this point with her pleasing Diamond, she fully understood what Rarity had said about not being in love with a mare, but being in love with Applejack.

She was in no rush and took her time to explore with her tongue. Sweetie felt the larger outer lips and the very sensitive inner ones. It was warm, soft, smooth and wet. Then she found the little nub called the clitoris. As she started to suck and lick on this as the books described, but it was as if she already knew what to do. Diamond’s hip movement became more pronounced. After so long of holding back and not giving in to lust, the orgasm didn’t take long.

Diamond never thought it’d feel like this. There was no parallel to this, nothing from past experiences. Even if she wanted it to stop, there was no way it could. It was like a train coursing through her. She gave an unconscious, uncontrolled cry of ecstasy.

Diamond’s hips arched up and stayed. Sweetie remembered to continue until Diamond relaxed and collapsed to the bed.

It was as if she’d been under water almost too long, she couldn’t get her breath at first.

Sweetie crawled up to by her wife’s head and saw that Diamond was crying.

“Oh no! Did I hurt you My Dearest?” asked Sweetie.

Diamond’s blue eyes locked in Sweetie’s green eyes.

“No My Love,” said Diamond the tears were slowing. “It was worth the wait!”

Diamond kissed Sweetie sweetly, then she gently rolled Sweetie to her back. And then worked her way down the way Sweetie had with her.

As Diamond passed Sweetie’s navel, Sweetie started to understand the reaction she’d just witnessed from her wife. The feeling was incredible, she couldn’t tell if it was the feeling of years of taboo being abandoned or if it was the true joy of being loved by this pony who she knew she couldn’t live her life without. That didn’t matter, she was now married to this incredibly brave and loving pony. She was happy beyond measure, they were bound heart, mind, spirit and now body.

Sweetie saw in her mind’s eye what Diamond was doing being she’d just done the same to her.

Diamond was enthralled with the previously unexplored parts of her lover’s body just in front of her muzzle. Sweetie’s white coat which reminded her of purity, a purity she was now working her best to remedy. With the sight of her marehood before her, the pink against the white, Diamond was glad with their pledge of the past she’d never been this close before. If she had, she knew that she couldn’t hold back.

And now there was no reason to hold back as Diamond plunged her tongue into Sweetie as far as it’d reach. She looked up the length of Sweetie’s body and saw her love’s face in total rapture. This urged Diamond to do her best. She found the act of doing this was so thrilling it was exciting herself even more, just as Sweetie had discovered. She felt her own marehood, still tingling from the afterglow, becoming even more wet.

Diamond followed with what Sweetie had done to her, and like herself, Sweetie didn’t take long, such was the pent up frustration of years of control.

“D I A M O N D!” cried Sweetie, then she went limp.

Diamond now slid up the bed to kiss her wife. The two could taste the other and themselves in the deep kisses they were sharing. This aroused them even more.

After kissing for a while, they remembered another position they had read, one that Rarity had hinted at in the past. Diamond turned around and got between Sweetie’s hind legs then she place one of her legs over one of Sweetie’s and one under her. Then with looks of joy and desire on their faces they brought their marehoods together. The feeling was warm, soft and wet. As they touched, it was as if their hips knew what to do. As they rubbed together the feeling was exquisite. Both lovers looked at each other at the same time, they saw the joy in the face of the other that they themselves were feeling.

This time the orgasm took longer, but they weren’t in any hurry. They climaxed about the same time. The feeling of climaxing together was so special. When done, they just lay back panting, still touching.

After, they’d kiss, eat strawberries, drink champagne and make love again. They also, still being young mares, did act a little silly.

Diamond rubbed some of the chocolate from a strawberry on Sweetie’s nipples then took her time licking them clean.

Sweetie levitated a glass of champagne above Diamond’s belly and let it trickle into her love’s navel where she greedily lapped it up.

After catching their breath, eating some more strawberries and another glass of champagne, they went at it again. This time stimulating each other orally at the same time. It was so exciting to please and be pleased at the same time.

The night continued like this until very, very late. All in all the night was more than they ever expected.

It was well worth the wait.

CHAPTER THREE: Flash Back to Dawn 3

Just last year:

The bell at the front door rang, announcing that somepony had just entered.

“Cookie, is that you?” called Muffins from the kitchen.

“Mom!” said Dinky, “I wish you wouldn’t call me that in front of my friends! It’s embarrassing.”

Muffins walked into the front room. There were Dinky, Scootaloo, Sweetie Bell, Apple Bloom, Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon.

“Sorry Miss Grown Up Smarty-Pants.” Said Muffins, coming into the room. “If they’re real friends, they’d not mind any family pet names and wouldn’t make fun of you.”

Muffins looked around, and noticed with the kids home from High School, Dawn should have been home by now.

“Have any of you girls seen Dawn?” asked Muffins.

“No mom,” said Dinky

The rest of the girls said they’d not seen her either. They all went upstairs to Cookie’s room.

“Twilight,” called Muffins. Twilight was in the kitchen, she came trotting in.

“Yes Honey,” said Twilight, “anything wrong?”

“Have you seen Dawn? She should be home from school by now.”

“No,” answered Twilight, “perhaps one of the princesses need the cart. Do you want me to send a note to Canterlot?”

Before Muffins could answer, the front door opened. It was Lyra Heartstrings.

“Oh good, you’re both here.” Said Lyra.

“Hello Lyra,” said Muffins, “how are you?”

“I’m doing great, thank you. Bon-Bon asked me to come see if you could come to the candy shop,” said Lyra, “we think you should see this.”

Muffins and Twilight just looked at each other with a concerned look.

“Cookie!” cried out Muffins, “we’ll be right back!”

“MOM!” replied Dinky.

Twilight and Muffins walked with their friend the couple of blocks to Bon-Bon’s shop. They noticed one of Princess Celestia’s carts parked outside. The harnesses were empty.

Once inside the sight was amusing. There at a table was Dawn with a very large dish of ice cream in front of her. At the table were two of the Palace Guard Pegasi. The Guards saw them enter and stood to attention.

“Lady Twilight!” they acknowledged.

“What is going on?” asked Twilight.

“Well, My Lady,” said one guard, “it’s like this…”

Dawn interrupted;

“I said they were too slow, so I bet them I could get to Ponyville before them. They just laughed and said they’d bet a large dish of ice-cream I couldn’t.”

“We didn’t think she was serious, My Lady,” said the other Guard, “but she jumped out of the cart and took off. We tried our best, but she out-flew us. She was here and ordered the ice-cream before we’d landed.”

“Please don’t tell your brother, My Lady,” implored the first Guard.

“Don’t worry about that,” said Twilight, trying not to laugh, “you two can go back to Canterlot. I’ll deal with this. Did you pay for the ice-cream?”

“No, My Lady,” said the Guard.

“Good, you’re dismissed,’ said Twilight.

After the Guards had left. Twilight and Muffins sat at the table.

“So, young filly,” said Muffins, “how are you going to pay for this?”

“I bet the Guards, they were going to pay,” said Dawn eating the ice cream faster, she was sure it was about to be taken away.

“Bon-Bon, would you please come here?” asked Twilight.

Bon-Bon came out from around the counter.

“Yes Twilight?’ said Bon-Bon.

“Do you have any particularly nasty chore which needs done?” asked Twilight.

“Well… I’ve got four tubs of cream which have gone bad.” Said the cream colored pony, “they need to be dumped, cleaned and sanitized before I can use them again.”

“Good,” said Twilight, “I’ll pay for the ice-cream, and Missy Dawn here will take care of your cream tubs. Make sure she does it correctly before you send her home.”

“And because Bon-Bon is an Earth Pony,” said Muffins to her young Alicorn daughter, “you’ll have to clean them the Earth Pony way. No magic!”

“Aunt Pinkie is an Earth Pony and she can use magic,” said Dawn trying to use reason.

“No magic!” said Muffins and Twilight together.

Bon-Bon smiled and appreciated the situation.

Twilight gave Bon-Bon the bits for the ice cream, Dawn finished the ice cream and then followed Bon-Bon to the back.

Later that evening, Dawn came home, accompanied by Bon-Bon and Lyra to make sure she got home okay.

“Thanks girls,” said Muffins. “We’ll see you at the ‘Old Mares Club’ meeting.”

“No problem,” said Bon-Bon, “I’m looking forward to that. But I wasn’t looking forward to cleaning those tubs.”

The Heartstrings and the Sparkles laughed, Dawn didn’t see the humor in this.

Lyra and Bon-Bon left the library still chuckling.

“Mommy! What was that for?” said the filly, “okay, I probably shouldn’t have bet the Guard. But what’s wrong with me flying myself?”

“You’re right, young filly,” said Muffins. “You shouldn’t have bet the guard, and they shouldn’t have let you. But you’ve not been flying very long. There are colts and fillies who can’t fly until they are several years older than you are. Some think you’re just showing off. I’d bet that some of your classmates don’t know how to handle you, being an Alicorn and all. The kids you go to school with are talented and gifted ponies as well, but you being what you are gives you an advantage. This can be taken wrong if it’s not handled with tact and humility.”

“Tact and humility?” asked Dawn.

“Just think of Aunt Rainbow,” said Twilight, “and don’t act like that.”

Dawn giggled at that.

“Plus you’re not the awesome flyer you like to think you are, yet.” Said Muffins, “do you know what your Aunts Celestia and Luna would do to us if we let anything happen to you? Do you know what would’ve happened to those Guards?”

“They’d throw us in a dungeon! Or banish us! Or they’d banish us and then throw us in a dungeon in the place they banished us to!” Said Twilight, starting to get a tremor in her voice, thinking of the imagined shame.

“Honey,” said Muffins, “lighten up, will you.”

“Dawn, it’s not that we fear something would happen to us if something happened to you,” said Muffins, “but both of us, Twilight and myself, would die if anything happened to our baby.

As we’ve tried to explain in the past, you’re a very special pony, the only Alicorn born in Equestria for many, many centuries, the first since Aunt Luna.”

“What about Aunt Cadence,” asked Dawn.

“Aunt Cadence was born a Pegasus,” said Twilight, “she was elevated. That is, she became an Alicorn after doing some very special magic”

“But most importantly you’re the daughter of two mares.” Said Muffins, “that in itself is special, but what you truly are is the product of a very special love. I like to say Twilight and I love each other so much it couldn’t be contained in just two ponies, you’re the extension of that love. How could we not love you so deeply.”

“Don’t think we don’t love your sisters.” Said Twilight, “we love Dinky and Sparkler just as much. And if anything happened to them, we’d be just as hurt.”

“I’m sorry, mommies,” said Dawn, truly feeling sorry for upsetting her mothers. “I’ll remember.”

Twilight and Muffins hugged the little filly.

“Okay,” said Muffins, “go upstairs and tell Cookie dinner will be ready soon.”

“MOM!” called out Dinky, overhearing what name her mother just used.

CHAPTER FOUR: New Lives

Back in the present:

Sweetie Belle woke with the sun peeking in the window. She felt Diamond in her forelegs, Diamond’s forelegs around her. Diamond’s head was resting against her chest and her own her chin lightly resting against the top her new wife’s head. She’d awakened like this before in the past, but this time it was different. Diamond was now her wife, they couldn’t be separated by a whim of their parents. They’d shared a night of love, it wasn’t some act of weakness, giving in to lust. It was the first night of their married life, their love finally consummated.

Diamond stirred, looked up into Sweetie’s eyes.

“I didn’t dream it?” She said in joy. “We’re truly together, forever.”

“Yes my Darling,” said Sweetie, kissing Diamond lightly.

They kissed for a bit longer, but hunger drove them from their blissfulness.

They got up and showered together, kissing more than cleaning. Then went down to the kitchen. There was a note on the table stating they were expected at a little café just a block away for brunch.

“Rarity thinks of everything,” said Diamond with a smile.

“You don’t know the half of it,” replied Sweetie chuckling.

At the café noted, Sweetie’s parents as well as Diamond’s were there along with Rarity and Applejack. There was also Rainbow and Pinkie Dash, Twilight and Muffins Sparkle, Muffins brother Dr. Time Turner Hooves, Bon-Bon and Lyra Heartstrings. And most surprisingly, Princess Luna.

As the newlyweds approached, Rainbow flew over to meet them, she took them aside and mentioned something she’d told Twilight years ago when she discovered Twilight had, the first time, been sleeping with Muffins. It was how mares who’ve been overly stimulated ‘down there’ hold their tails out more than normal. So if they didn’t want the common pony to know of the ‘wild night of rutting’, in Rainbow’s words, they just experienced, then they should think about how they held their tails.

Rainbow and the girls got a good laugh out of it.

The families had already ordered for them and the whole company enjoyed the meal together. Princess Luna was very relaxed and didn’t stand for any formality. They found out later that Luna had covered the bill.

After eating, the princess had something interesting to say.

“I’ve enjoyed myself immensely, as always, here in Ponyville. I may just set up a summer palace here (which she later did). But more importantly, the ponies here have become my closest friends, though they may not have thought themselves so. Especially my sister’s apprentice and her wife.”

Twilight and Muffins blushed in humility to be thought so by a princess.

“Last night I celebrated the Rituals of the Night in honor of the newlyweds, thanks to the assistance of Lyra, Bon-Bon and Time Turner.”

There were blushes from the three ponies mentioned.

The rest of the brunch was happy and boisterous. A lot of kidding of the newlyweds and of the three ponies who had spent the night with the princess. Even the princess doled out and accepted kidding. Nopony, including Luna, could even imagine Celestia being so forward or casual. But such is the nature of The Princess of the Night.

The brunch finished, the princess took her leave of everypony and flew off in her cart and the greater part of the group left to start their day, but not before congratulating the newlyweds.

This left Rarity and Applejack, Sweetie and Diamond to talk among themselves.

“So,” started Rarity. “I’d be greatly surprised as well as annoyed if you didn’t make full use of my gift this time.”

“It was greatly appreciated,” said Diamond. “We were so happy to see it.”

“And before you ask,” continued Sweetie Belle, “it was worth the wait.”

Rarity and AJ smiled.

“We’re so happy for you two,” said AJ, “we’ve watched y’all for the last several years, we’re so proud of the level of maturity you’ve shown. You’ve acted responsible beyond your years. Apple Bloom has often said she hopes when she has a pony to love in her life, she’ll be as happy as you two are. And to know you two are happy is a joy to all your family.”

“We know we were young when love came to us.” Said Sweetie Belle, “but we trusted in it and put the other ahead of our self. I think it worked.”

“I’d say so,” said Rarity, “you have to remember now you’re married, it doesn’t release you from having to be mature and responsible. You have to be more, but it doesn’t mean you can’t be young and have fun. Just keep your priorities. But Applejack and I don’t think that’d be any issue.”

Apple Bloom woke up late, she’d partied late after Sweetie and Diamond left the reception. She was happy she’d no place that she had to go this morning. She’d been invited to the brunch for the newlyweds, but she’d declined in favor of sleep. On a farm, the ability to sleep late was a luxury. Even when she was staying with her mothers at the cottage, she still had chores at the farm and it was expected for her to fulfill them. Now that she was out of school, more was expected from her.

Zecora was also expecting more from her now she didn’t have any homework, from the school that is. Zecora made sure that Apple Bloom had plenty of reading to do. There were books and scrolls from her collection and suggested books from the library. Plus aside from the lessons she was giving, she’d made sure of certain lessons from Twilight Sparkle as well.

The hardest part of her lessons with Zecora were she was being required to not only learn the language of magic and the native language of the zebra tribes, but she was also being required to speak in verse when she was with her mentor. She’d learned from the start the reason for it was it required her to truly think about what she wanted to say and not just open her mouth without thinking. It was getting really hard because half of her lessons were now in zebra and she was required to speak it in verse as well.

Plus there was something that was changing in her heart and mind when she was around her mentor. Something that made Apple Bloom want to please the zebra even more. One smile from her teacher would lighten her whole day. She would often dream of Zecora, not in a mentor or teaching relationship, but being with her in a very close and personal relationship.

Apple Bloom almost thought it’d be easier to be back in school. There, if she messed up an assignment, it didn’t have the possibility of blowing out the windows.

It wasn’t like she didn’t enjoy her studies with Zecora, she was learning some cool things, and she was in competition with Dinky Sparkle, Sweetie Belle Rich and surprisingly, Scootaloo Dash. Learning the shaman magic gave her an edge because she could understand the organic part involved with magic.

Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon were the only friends not studying magic, Silver said she’d enough to study to be a teacher. And Diamond said Sweetie Belle was magic enough for their household, but Sweetie would joke Diamond happened to work another kind of magic when they were alone.

When Apple Bloom thought back on how much grief that Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon had given to the old Cutie Mark Crusaders, and then to think not only were they best friends now, but that Diamond and Sweetie were deeply in love and married. It was enough to make Apple Bloom believe good things can truly happen.

Apple Bloom heard her mothers come in, it must be later than she thought, there was no way the brunch was that short.

“Apple Bloom!” called AJ from down stairs. “We brought you some food, if’n you wan’a eat, scoot your boot!”

“’kay Mama!” replied Apple Bloom just loud enough to be heard.

‘Mama’!

Apple Bloom still marveled four years later at the fact the pony she’d thought for so long was her sister and best friend was in reality her mother, but still best friend.

She never held any resentment she’d been kept in the dark about this, she understood and for the most part agreed with the reasons.

It didn’t matter she’d probably never know who her father was. After all, he was no more than an unwelcome and evil ‘sperm donor’.

What he really was, was a monster. A monster who hurt an innocent little filly and left her in an orchard, violated, confused and pregnant to fend for herself. Luckily, her mother had the support of her granny and her brother to help her through.

Apple Bloom had put thought to what in life it made her. She came to the conclusion she was never the unexpected/unwanted child of a monster and a rape victim. She was the proud daughter of a pony whose honor, loyalty and honesty could never be questioned. No, the fact she didn’t know who her father was didn’t matter one bit.

In fact, she knew if she ever met him, she’d be tempted to use some of the darker things Zecora was teaching her. Nopony hurts her family, especially her mother and lives comfortably afterwards.

Apple Bloom got up, washed her face and went down stairs and ate. After thanking her moms for bringing her the food. Apple Bloom went outside to do her deferred chores. Outside she saw her mentor Zecora coming up the path. Apple Bloom trotted joyfully to her teacher and gave the proper shaman greeting and ritual kisses on the cheeks.

“Salamu bwana mganga(1),” said Apple Bloom.

“Salamu mwanafunzi(2),” replied Zecora.

Then the two exchanged genuine hugs. Apple Bloom wasn’t sure, but it felt as if the zebra’s hugs and attention had become more and more warm. And Apple Bloom was really liking it.

“Apple Bloom my student, I’m here to see;

If your mothers would kindly meet with me.” Said Zecora, in zebra.

“They are inside, and I’m sure you’ll see;

To meet with you, happy they’ll be.” Replied Apple Bloom in zebra as well.

Zecora smiled at the mastery of the zebra language her apprentice was displaying.

Apple Bloom led her teacher into the house and showed her to the front room and informed her she’d get Applejack and Rarity.

The two ponies were in the kitchen talking when Apple Bloom came in.

“Mamas, Zecora is here askin’ to meet with the two of you,” informed Apple Bloom.

“We’d be happy to meet with her Sugar Cube,” said Applejack.

“There’s hot water on the stove,” said Rarity, “would you bring it and some tea in for her?”

“Sure thing Mama.” Said Apple Bloom.

When Apple Bloom brought the tea in, she saw the three were sitting around talking quietly. Apple Bloom finished serving tea and started to sit.

“Apple Bloom, Darling,” said Rarity, “would you mind letting us talk. Zecora is needing to talk to us alone about something. Yes, it involves you but there’s nothing to fret over. So would you mind finishing your chores outside and we’ll call you when we’re done.”

“Sure Mama,” said Apple Bloom.

“Kwa idhini yako, bwana(3)” said Apple Bloom to her teacher.

Zecora nodded acknowledgment to her apprentice.

It was several hours later when Applejack called Apple Bloom in for a late lunch. When she came in, she noticed that Zecora had already left. Lunch was on the table and for the most part everypony ate and spoke little. Right now it was just Applejack, Rarity and Apple Bloom. When they were done, Apple Bloom started to get up to go.

“Hold on Sugar Cube,” said AJ, “your mother and I need to talk to you.”

Apple Bloom sat back down and looked concerned.

“It’s okay Darling” said Rarity, “don’t worry. As you know, Zecora came by to talk to us. She spent quite a bit of time singing your praises. She said you’re a great student, you’re learning everything she’s been teaching you, and you’re also learning everything Twilight Sparkle is teaching you as well.

According to her, we should be very proud of what you’ve accomplished. And we are Darling.”

“That was the only reason she visited?” asked Apple Bloom.

“No, Sugar Cube,” said AJ, “she wanted us to know that for you to continue your studies, there’s somethin’ you need to do. It’s somethin’ that has to be your decision alone.”

“What’s that, Mama?”

“Zecora says that for you to continue to learn, learn properly, you’re going to have to move in with her to immerse yourself in your studies.” Said Rarity.

“We want you to know we’re so proud of you, how you’ve handled the changes over the last several years. How you’ve taken to the studies that both Zecora and Twilight have given you. We can think of nothin’ better to dedicate your life to than helpin’ and healin’ others.”

“But what about the two of you and the farm,” said Apple Bloom, “I’ve chores, I’ve responsibilities!”

“Yes you do Darling,” said Rarity, “but since Cousin Carmel moved back from Appleloosa, after the tragedy with Fluttershy, he’s been enough help around here, he could cover for you. For obvious reasons, he likes to stay busy.”

“Sugar Cube, we love you and we love having you with us. If’n you feel your destiny is to work on the apple farm all your life, then we’ll support you. But if’n you’re truly meant for somethin’ else, somethin’ your talents are causin’ you to excel in. Then we’re behind you as well. Zecora said the work will be hard and so the choice has to be one you freely make.”

“Won’t I be able to see my family?” said Apple Bloom panicked.

“You’ll not be a prisoner or slave,” said Rarity with a laugh, “it’ll be more like living at school. And most advanced schools have you do that anyway. But Zecora said it wouldn’t be easy at first. She’ll have you speaking zebra all the time, and in verse. Plus she’ll have chores for you, she said something about having to learn meditation and you’ll not be able to have very many personal items at first.”

“Sugar Cube,” said AJ, “we’ll stand behind you whatever you decide. You’ve never done anythin’ but make us proud. And we don’t think you’d ever do anythin’ else.

Problem is, accordin’ to Zecora, she’ll need to get a decision from you by mornin’. She said somethin’ ’bout she couldn’t teach you anythin’ else without doing this. So you go the next step, or your studies are over. She’ll be here early and you have to give her an answer then. You leave with her or leave your studies.”

Apple Bloom looked shocked, she never imagined that her studies with Zecora would ever end, she did want to continue her studies. She wanted to be the kind of pony that helped others.

But she loved her family also. She’d only found out that Applejack was really her mother just a little over four years ago. It’d been so nice to live as mother and daughter with her and Rarity. But she also knew that growing up also means changes in your life. Just look at Sweetie Bell and Diamond Tiara.

That alone made her smile. To think a pony who’d made Sweetie’s life so miserable for so long was now married to, and madly in love with her.

If that wasn’t a total change of lifestyle she couldn’t think of what was. Even when they were ‘playing house’ as Apple Bloom use to kid them while they were staying with Applejack, Rarity and herself, wasn’t a true life change decision as getting married. Apple Bloom thought about it some more.

It was exciting to think about learning some deeper mysteries of the shaman magic. And she’d be able to see her friends, and she doubted that Zecora would mistreat her. Plus she was now an adult so she could walk away from anything at any time.

Since she’d first started going over and hanging out with Zecora, and helped her with the Poison Joke cure, she’d wanted to learn from the zebra.

Now was her chance, Zecora was asking for her. And truthfully, Apple Bloom was more than a little excited to have the chance to move in with Zecora.

Apple Bloom didn’t need to think anymore.

It was early morning. Apple Bloom was so excited and apprehensive she could barely sleep.

Rarity and Applejack had got up extra early to make breakfast for Apple Bloom. They were a little misty but proud that their daughter was going to be continuing her studies with Zecora and they wanted to see her off properly. Zecora had told them Apple Bloom could take some family photos and any one object to comfort her being away. Like a teddy bear or favorite blanket. These they had collected the night before.

Now the three of them were eating an early breakfast, early for even a farm household. Granny, Cousin Carmel, Big Mac and Cheerilee and their foal were still in bed.

“Well Sugar Cube,” said AJ, “you know if’n you really don’t wan’a do this, you don’t have to.”

“I know Mama,” said Apple Bloom, “but to tell the truth, I’m kind of excited ‘bout this ‘bout as much as I’m nervous.”

“We’ve no doubt that Zecora will treat you well,” said Rarity, “and your mother and I are so proud of you. You’ve never disappointed us, we couldn’t ask for a better daughter. But I guess you’ve got to ‘leave the nest’ sometime. Just remember we’ll always be here for you.”

“Thanks Mama,” said Apple Bloom. “Ever since I found out I have two mothers, I’ve tried to be a daughter that’d be worthy of the love you’ve given.”

“You’ve not disappointed.” Said AJ.

Then AJ and Rarity got up and came over to Apple Bloom, kissed and gave her a big hug. There were tears of pride in all their eyes.

Then came the knock at the door.

“She’s here,” said AJ, “are you ready?”

“Yes Mama,” answered Apple Bloom, “I guess I am.”

Rarity levitated Apple Bloom’s saddlebag to her. The two mothers gave her a kiss, then she went to the door. Opened it and there stood Zecora smiling.

Apple Bloom and Zecora greeted each other in zebra and gave formal kisses on the cheeks.

“Salamu bwana mganga(4),” said Apple Bloom.

“Salamu mwanafunzi(5),” replied Zecora.

Then Zecora said in pony, so the others could understand;

“Apple Bloom my student, I’m here to see;

If you are ready to come with me.”

“Ndiyo, bwana mganga(6),” answered Apple Bloom.

Then addressing Applejack and Rarity;

"Apple Bloom will be cared for, this I can tell;

Like a daughter she’ll be treated by me quite well.”

“We’ve no doubt of that,” said Applejack. “We look forward to hearing how she’ll be progressin’.”

Zecora smiled and nodded, then she spoke to Apple Bloom one word in zebra. Now that she was the accepted master, it was a command and not a request;

“Unifuate(7).”

“Kusababisha juu you bwana mganga(8),” answered Apple Bloom.

Zecora turned and started to walk away, Apple Bloom quickly kissed her mothers again and trotted off after Zecora.

Applejack just stood in the door, a tear rolled down her cheek.

“Darling,” asked Rarity, “are you alright?”

“For so long, I regrettably hid she was my daughter,” said AJ. “I’ve loved the last four years, bein’ able to be her mother. Now she’s goin’ off to her new life. I’m so proud, but sad at the same time.”

“Honey,” said Rarity, “she’ll always be our daughter, and she won’t be that far away.”

Applejack turned and gave her wife a very passionate kiss.

“We’ve had an early breakfast. We can start our chores early,” said Applejack.

“Or we can go back to our room, and I can remind you what your tongue is for,” said Rarity.

“Won’t you be late getting to your shop?” asked AJ not really seriously.

“I’ve an employee now. I’m the boss, I make my own time.” Said Rarity with a large smile.

“She ain’t started yet,” kidded AJ.

“It’s the principle that counts,” laughed Rarity.

“Then why are we standing here talking?” asked AJ.

“By the way Darling,” said Rarity, as they were walking toward the stair, “where did you put your lasso?”

“Ho! Doggies!” was AJ’s only reply.

It wasn’t very long after, Rarity’s four legs were tied to the bedposts, and she was wearing AJ’s hat. Applejack was down between her hind legs, her marehood spread by AJ’s hooves. Applejack always marveled how the pink of the inside of her marehood stood out against the white of her coat. Her clitoris was there erect from the stimulation of AJ’s tongue. By the pumping of her hips, AJ could tell that Rarity was close. In fact, Rarity turned her head, buried her face in the pillow and let out a scream.

When she could tell the orgasm had passed, AJ moved up to kiss her wife.

“That was awesome as always My Love,” said Rarity, breathing heavily. “I sure have trained you well.”

“My pleasure, really,” was AJ’s reply between kisses.

“Okay, Darling,” said Rarity, “we need to get going, untie me please.”

Rarity could have untied herself with her magic, but this was part of the game.

“No can do, Sugar Cube,” said AJ with a devious smile.

Rarity looked confused, until she saw AJ move up, then she squatted down with her knees on either side of Rarity’s head. She then lowered herself with her marehood just at Rarity’s muzzle.

“I think it’s your turn,” said AJ grasping the headboard.

AJ lowered herself just the little remaining space, while Rarity ravenously worked her tongue in her wife’s marehood. Suddenly she playfully nipped at the sensitive inner lips.

“Hey!” exclaimed AJ, “do I need to get the spurs?”

Rarity just giggled;

“Ride ‘em cowpony!”

Author's Note

1 Ibid, Book 3, Chapter 4.
2 Ibid, Book 3, Chapter 4.
3 By your leave, master.
4 Ibid, Book 3, Chapter 4.
5 Ibid, Book 3, Chapter 4.
6 Ibid, Book 3, Chapter 4.
7 Follow me.
8 Lead on master healer.

CHAPTER FIVE: Echoes Of The Future

The previous morning Pinkie, Muffins, Rainbow and Twilight brunched with the newlyweds. The arousal due to the talk of the previous night’s activities. Especially with Luna and her escapades had precipitated an unplanned overnight get-together by the four friends/lovers bound by love and their transcendence of life and death they experienced during their effort to save Pinkie in the underworld. It was taking less and less for them to find an excuse for the four to share their love. It was also getting hard to keep it under wraps.

The group was warm and snug in Rainbow and Pinkie’s oversized cloud bed. All were in blissful sleep. All but Twilight, she was waking up for no apparent reason.

It was early as Twilight stirred, she could sense that it was well after midnight. She also could feel the ponies in bed with her, but she was most acutely aware of the especially strong forelegs holding her. The muscular chest she was up against. Also present and keeping her extra warm was the wing draped over her. She could smell the arousing sent of mare without perfume or cologne, and the warmth of the feminine but incredibly strong body.

She’d never felt so safe and protected as this since the last time she was a filly and her daddy held her to protect her from what ever boogie-pony was hiding under her bed.

She knew she was being held by the private Rainbow Dash that only three ponies knew. She was the strong and self-assured somewhat arrogant pony every other pony knew, but this Rainbow Dash was also incredibly tender, gentle and loving, a face hidden from the rest of the world. Pinkie even admitted this side of Rainbow Dash had only come out after their journey into the underworld.

It was indeed Twilight had wrought this transformation, so Twilight felt made this side of Rainbow, ‘Her Rainbow Dash’. She had to be careful with thinking that way. It was a relationship they all were bound equally to each other, to become overly possessive would turn it into something less wholesome and fulfilling. After all, she was shared with Pinkie and Muffins as well.

During the incident in the underworld, there were revelations of feelings which were brought out to and had to be dealt with. They became in touch with feelings from the future, due to time they has spent in the underworld to save Pinkie, this was truly a situation of genuine love. Princess Luna had explained this relationship wasn’t some perverted orgy. She’d said it was as if the four of them were now married.

And the four delighted in this.

Muffins and Pinkie understood this especially about Rainbow and Twilight. And they had found by having these occasional nights together, there were no reasons for their wives to feel forced to hide their feelings, or to have an illicit relationship, or suffer because they were not able to express themselves.

And to tell the truth, Muffins and Pinkie enjoyed it just as much.

Now about twice a month they’d meet for a nice dinner, either at one of their homes or at a restaurant. And then they’d go to the Dash’s cloud home for the night. But like tonight, there were special circumstances that’d precipitate an unplanned get together. Rainbow was always able to get Scootaloo to go spend the night with Dinky. And Sparkler was always happy to watch Dawn. They suspected Sparkler, Scoot and Dinky knew what’s going on, but they had the good taste and respect not to say anything.

Rainbow felt Twilight stirring, Rainbow so much loved holding Twilight on these nights. There was just something so special about the purple Unicorn. It wasn’t she didn’t love holding Pinkie or even Muffins. But there was an honest innocence Twilight had retained through everything she’d been through.

This didn’t decrease the pleasure when holding Muffins or Pinkie. Each pony was different and Rainbow did appreciate the differences.

“Is there something wrong, Lover-Pony?” asked Rainbow, giving Twilight a little kiss. For some reason, Rainbow didn’t feel sappy at all with pet names for Twilight. Perhaps it was because Twilight was so much more ‘girly’ than her other companions, both Pinkie and Muffins were mature mares, even with Pinkie’s sense of humor. Twilight was mature but she reminded Rainbow of an insecure filly in an awesome mare’s body. She was an extremely powerful Unicorn but she hid the deep intelligence and awesome magic power that she commanded with humility, modesty and most of all, love.

“I would’ve thought I’d worn you out tonight, Luna knows I sure tried.”

“I don’t know,” said Twilight, she snuggled up a little closer to Rainbow. “Just an uneasy feeling.”

“I know how to fix your uneasy feelings,” said Rainbow.

Rainbow kissed Twilight the kind of kisses that Rainbow wished she that could give Twilight all the time and not just at these get-togethers. Twilight wished the same and returned the kisses in kind, Twilight pulled Rainbow so close it felt she was trying to share the same space with her.

Rainbow’s soul burned for Twilight, even though she was still deeply in love with Pinkie, and knew Twilight loved Muffins as much.

Making love to Twilight was so different than making love to Pinkie or Muffins. Pinkie was wild, fun loving and even silly, but in a pleasing way. Muffins was passionate and had a large repertoire of how to please, a true artist at lovemaking. But Twilight was intense, precise and willing to give and give and give without thought of anything in return. It wasn’t Twilight didn’t want anything from her, in fact she craved Rainbow as much if not more than Rainbow craved her. But the way that she ‘received’ made Rainbow want to perform even better.

Another thing aroused Rainbow was that Pinkie, Muffins and herself had had sex with stallions previously. But the knowledge Twilight had never been with a stallion, and had only been with Muffins, Pinkie and herself, excited Rainbow even more. Even when offered to use toys which duplicated the experience of a stallion’s ‘thing’, Twilight flatly refused on the grounds despite not being a mare-lover, she loved three mares and it was satisfying enough. It was all the sex she knew and it was all the sex she ever wanted. Plus with the shared memories she was given at Dawn’s birth, she could remember the feeling of sex with a stallion, through Muffins, and she wasn’t impressed. This fact made the three mares who loved Twilight perform even better to make sure that Twilight was never tempted to do anything else.

It was kind of a silly notion, but to Rainbow, it made Twilight feel somehow ‘pure’.

It was so crazy for Rainbow. There was a time not too long ago when Rainbow wouldn’t admit to loving anypony. Then came the accident where Pinkie was almost killed. She had her feelings forced to the surface. Love became more important than appearing cool.

Then the events of the underworld where she and Twilight traveled to save Pinkie from Shooting Star taking over her body and spirit. He’d caused Rainbow and Twilight to experience feelings they’d not have until the future, after Pinkie and Muffins were gone. Shooting Star had facilitated this to distract them, but it backfired. Being he wasn’t the true Shooting Star, he’d forgotten about what love could do. The feelings of genuine love, linked with the release of repressed desire for each other made them stronger. And with Pinkie’s influence through Shooting Star, the bond between Rainbow and Twilight became stronger. Pinkie had given a push, according to Pinkie, it wasn’t that much of a push, the two let go of the final restraint and made love. This bond of love they discovered gave them strength and a reason to be willing to sacrifice themselves for ponies they loved. Now, Rainbow’s loving Twilight and Muffins was as important as loving Pinkie.

And she had to admit to herself Twilight was quite the kisser and an even better lover.

They broke the kiss, Twilight held Rainbow tightly, Rainbow felt tears on her coat. Then Twilight let go of her, got out of the bed and rushed out of the room. As it happened, both Muffins and Pinkie were cuddled together, it appeared their kiss or Twilight getting out of bed hadn’t disturbed them, cloud beds didn’t transfer that much motion.

Rainbow got carefully out of bed, doing her best not to disturb the sleeping ponies. She went to the living area and there was Twilight sitting on a sofa, it appeared she was crying. Rainbow sat beside her and took her hoof.

“Twi, My Love, what’s wrong?” asked Rainbow in a voice so tender it almost was out of character with the brash Pegasus.

Twilight looked at Rainbow. There were tears flowing down her cheeks.

“Hold me Rainbow,” said Twilight.

Rainbow took her forelegs and put them around Twilight and pulled her close.

“No Rainbow,” said Twilight, there was something urgent in her eyes, “please hold me.”

Rainbow realized what it was that she was asking. Rainbow understood because of Twilight being married to a Pegasus. Rainbow, without letting go, put her wings around Twilight as well.

“I love you so much Rainbow,” said Twilight, kissing the blue Pegasus deeply, “I probably have since we first met, I just never let myself feel it. But you know this, since our revelation, it’s so hard to go through the days as if this doesn’t exist. I know if we went public it’d be harder for ponies to accept that with us being married to mares.

I also love Pinkie. And I’m still insanely in love with Muffins. And to be honest, if something happened to this arrangement and Muffins said we couldn’t be together until she was gone, I’d do as she asked, but know my soul would suffer every day we couldn’t be together. At night I still remember the feelings I had when we went after Pinkie. I can feel the feelings of the time to come. The intense way we’ll love each other.

But I think about the reason why we’ll be together. Muffins and Pinkie will be gone. And the thought of Pinkie and Muffins being gone and the thought one day you’ll be gone as well just kills me! I never truly let myself love any pony until Muffins came to me. And just like when I learned about friendship, now I can’t live without the love I get and give to the ponies so close to my heart. I think I’ll go crazy trying to figure this out. I love all of you so, so much!”

Twilight started to sob hard.

“Twi, Honey,” said Rainbow holding Twilight tighter, her own heart starting to break. “I feel the same as you do, and I’d respect Pink’s wishes if she said we couldn’t be together, but I doubt she ever would. And as far as the future, I try not to think about it. If it’s to come, there isn’t anything we can do about it.”

Rainbow paused;

“You’re feeling this way because of Fluttershy, aren’t you?”

The naming of their deceased friend caused Twilight to cry harder.

“What's wrong with Twilight?” asked Muffins coming into the room.

Muffins sat on the other side of Twilight and put her wings around Twilight as well.

“She’s been thinking about the future. About how you and Pink will be gone.” Said Rainbow, there were tears starting to form in Rainbow’s eyes. “The passing of Fluttershy has hit her hard and made her think about losing you two.”

“I know it’s stupid of me to say, but I don’t want anything to ever happen to any of you,” said Twilight crying hard.

“Twi,” said Pinkie coming in the room, “You can’t hope nothing ever happens to us. If it did, then nothing would ever happen to us. Do you know how boring that would be?”

Twilight looked up at Pinkie, trying to understand if it actually made sense. But it did make her stop crying.

“Twilight,” said Muffins, “we all love you just as much, even Ms I Got To Be Cool About All This.”

“Hey!” said Rainbow, “I love Twilight, and I’m not ashamed to say so. I love Pinkie and I love you as well, Ms I Had A Foal By Twilight And You Haven’t!”

Both Muffins and Rainbow gave each other a deep kiss and laughed despite the situation.

“And instead of worrying about what’s to come,” said Muffins giving Twilight a kiss as well, “enjoy the time we have together now. After all, we’ll all have to go sometime.”

Twilight started to stand, the two Pegasi retracted their wings and let Twilight get up. She walked off just a little, looking at the floor.

There was an uneasy silence from Twilight, the others could feel it.

“Not all of us,” said Twilight quietly.

“What do you mean?” asked Pinkie.

Twilight turned back to her lovers, she was looking strange and swallowed hard.

“This can’t go beyond the four of us, and I’m really not supposed to talk about it even to you. But unless there’s an unfortunate accident...

I’m not going to grow old and die.”

Twilight’s three companions all looked shocked.

“Are you saying you’re immortal?” asked Muffins.

“No,” said Twilight….

“Not yet.”

“Not yet?!” asked Rainbow, Muffins and Pinkie at the same time.

“Being Celestia’s apprentice isn’t just a title for a professional student. I’ll take her place one day. I’ll be as immortal as she.

I’m only now starting to understand what I’ll have to give up because of this. I’ll lose everypony I love, every family member, every friend, and all ponies important to me.

Except Dawn, she’s Luna’s apprentice.”

“You’ll rule all Equestria? That’s so cool! I have sex with the future ruler of Equestria!” said Pinkie. “Do I get a tax break for that?”

The other three ponies just looked at Pinkie. In spite of the tone of the conversation, they all laughed.

“Our baby, will be immortal too?” said Muffins sounding amazed.

“No,” said Twilight, “her being an Alicorn, means that she already is. Why do you think she’s never been sick?”

The group sat around thinking about what Twilight had revealed.

“I’ve been afraid my friends and even you my Darlings, would treat me different if it got out. But with what happened with Pinkie, and with Fluttershy’s passing, it has been put right in my face.” Said Twilight, “this relationship we now have is something so very special to me. It’s more than I ever dreamed of, so much love given and received. And it isn’t just the sex, although the sex is fantastic, it’s about my being with and loving deeply ponies who mean everything to me.

It isn’t that Applejack and Rarity aren’t important, they are. But we share something which has transcended life and death.

And now the only hope for me is to believe that there’s something beyond that portal in the underworld other than limbo. To live an immortal life without the possibility of love is no life at all.”

Rainbow, Muffins and Pinkie all hugged Twilight.

“We’re not gone yet, and you’ve yet to show Pinkie or especially me, Unicorn Horn Sex,” said Rainbow with a smile.

“Hey that’s mine!” Said Muffins in a fake whiny voice.

“Sorry babe,” said Rainbow with a wicked grin. “I’ve seen how freaky you’ve been getting with Pink and I’ve not said one word. So you’ll just have to quit being so stingy, Twilight is all of ours now.”

“Do I get a say in this?” asked Twilight, actually starting to feel better.

“And what makes you think I’ll share?” asked Muffins with a large smile, ignoring Twilight’s comments.

Rainbow looked at Pinkie and Twilight and smiled. Then Rainbow grabbed Muffins, kissed her intensely and lay her back on the soft couch, then turned with her marehood over Muffin’s muzzle.

“If you think having awesome sex with me will change my mind,” said Muffins, but at that moment, Rainbow plunged her tongue deep into Muffins marehood, “then you’re probably right.”

Muffins started to moan, as she started to ‘eat’ Rainbow’s marehood. Rainbow and Muffins were working it good.

Pinkie and Twilight giggled, it was arousing.

Twilight reached out her hoof to Pinkie, Pinkie took Twilight’s hoof. Twilight and Pinkie kissed passionately, then broke the kiss and looked at the other.

“I think I need something sweet,” said Twilight, referring to the unique taste of Pinkie’s marehood.

Pinkie smiled and started to lead Twilight back to the bedroom.

“Come on Twi,” said Pinkie. “let Pinkie put a smile back on your face. I bet I can lick your bellybutton…

From the inside!”

It was a couple hours later. Rainbow and Muffins had not returned to the bed yet. Twilight and Pinkie were holding each other, still breathing hard.

“You know Pinkie,” said Twilight, “in retrospect, I should have taken you up on the pity sex you offered after Lyra and Bon-Bon’s wedding.”

“I didn’t offer pity sex,” said Pinkie.

“But I thought…”

“No Twilight,” said Pinkie pulling Twilight closer, “I offered real sex to a real friend. A friend I’ve always thought was cute and desirable. Scrawny flanks and all!”

Then Pinkie blushed and looked sheepish.

“I have to confess something to you. When I told you back then that you were all cuddly when you were sleeping. I couldn’t help myself.”

“How do you mean?” asked Twilight intrigued.

“I did want you that night,” Said Pinkie blushing, “I was surprised that you didn’t feel me ‘eating’ your marehood. I guess you were sleep boinking, because you started ‘eating’ mine.”

“I thought I was only dreaming, no wonder I couldn’t get you off my mind after that,” said Twilight.

“You’re not mad?” asked Pinkie.

Twilight’s answer was Twilight kissing Pinkie deeply.

“Had I realized,” said Twilight, “I would’ve let you sleep with me that second night.”

“But where would we be now?” asked Pinkie.

“Probably in bed together, making love,” said Twilight with a grin. “Like we’re doing now.”

Both smiled at the irony.

“HA! HA! Muffins!” Called Pinkie out loudly, and kidding;

“♪I-boinked-Twilight- fir-st! I-boinked-Twilight- fir-st!♪”

“Who cares?” came a response from Rainbow from the living room.

“I want a refund!” said Muffins from the living room as well.

“Who told you to quit licking?” said Rainbow. They could hear Muffins laugh.

Pinkie and Twilight held each other close and giggled.

“I don’t know if I’ve said it enough,” said Twilight blushing. “But I love you Pinkie.”

“I love you too Twi,” said Pinkie.

The two resumed kissing but then Pinkie worked her way up and started licking Twilight’s horn. Twilight felt the arousal that this act would bring. Then she started to suck on it sliding up and down to the base.

After a few minutes of doing this, Pinkie looked deep into Twilight’s eyes.

“I think it’s time for you to show me something,” said Pinkie. Pinkie moved up the bed as far as comfortable. Lay on her back and spread her hind legs, her marehood glistened.

“I think so too,” said Twilight as she lined up her horn to enter Pinkie. Twilight had learned how to do this on her back so her muzzle wasn’t pressed into the mattress.

Pinkie gasped as Twilight entered her, despite Pinkie knowing about this act, she’d never experienced it before.

“Oh Twi,” moaned Pinkie, “do me good!”

“My pleasure,” said Twilight as she started to work her horn as she had learned to control with many practice sessions with Muffins.

This was the first time for Twilight with somepony other than Muffins. It was just as exciting, especially when she let her eyes look up and she could just see her purple horn going deep into a pink marehood.

As Twilight and Pinkie were performing this most intimate of sex acts (for a Unicorn) Rainbow and Muffins came back into the bedroom.

“Oh my gosh,” said Rainbow holding Muffins close. “I don’t think I’ve seen anything more arousing.”

“Oh yeah, you think that’s something?” said Muffins, “let me let you in on a secret I’ve never mentioned to Twilight.

Muffins whispered something into Rainbow’s ear. They smiled, kissed and joined the couple on the bed.

Rainbow was kneeling over Twilight, ‘eating’ her marehood. Muffins was over Pinkie’s muzzle as Pinkie was ‘eating’ Muffins’ marehood. Muffins was ‘eating’ Rainbow. With the way Twilight was laying, she could watch what Muffins and Rainbow were doing. Twilight was about to go crazy watching Muffins tongue working Rainbow the expert way Muffins could. Even Rainbow’s ‘juices’ which dripped down, Twilight caught with her tongue.

It was a circle of extreme intimacy.

As the horngasm happened, the light covered not only Pinkie and Twilight but Muffins and Rainbow as well. The four screamed in a shared hyper-climax that none had ever felt before. For a moment, there were no barriers between minds and bodies, they were one. It was only a moment, but it was an eternity of bliss shared by four ponies.

After; as they all lay together trying to recover, Rainbow said it best;

“Oh wow!”

CHAPTER SIX: The ‘Old Mare’s Club’

It was the first day at work for Diamond and Sweetie since the wedding. Most of the customers at Rich’s Barnyard Bargains and at Carousel Boutique knew of the newlywed pony working there, most had been to the wedding. There were a great deal of congratulations and other well wishes. It was an unintended boon for the two shops because it brought in customers who may’ve not gone there that day.

At closing time, Sweetie Belle said goodnight to her father-in-law who had praised her professionalism at the job today. The hug received felt so much better when reflected on how he’d acted only a little over four years ago. Filthy reiterated she was now a full partner in the business. It did feel funny to no longer just be a daughter helping out, but a real owner in the business. Sweetie smiled as she walked back to Carousel Boutique and home. It was indeed a good day.

As she got to the Boutique, she saw Rarity leaving.

“Hello Mrs. Apple,” said Sweetie Belle.

“Well hello, Mrs. Rich,” said Rarity with a giggle. “How was your first real day at work?”

“I enjoyed it. It really wasn’t too different. But it’s nice that I’m actually a part of the family, in the family business.”

“I understand, I think your bride felt the same way today. I’ve never seen her take so much pride in her sewing.” Said Rarity with a smile. “By the way, the two of you have an invitation for tonight. I left it on the kitchen table. It’s not mandatory, but we’d really like to see you two there.”

Rarity and Sweetie Belle hugged and exchanged sisterly kisses, then Rarity trotted off toward Sweet Apple Acres.

Sweetie Belle came in and saw Diamond at the sewing machine.

“Honey! I’m home!” said Sweetie Belle, then with a laugh, “I’ve always wanted to say that.”

Diamond trotted over to her and gave her a big kiss.

“After the last two days,” said Diamond, “it was so hard to be apart.”

“I know,” said Sweetie Belle, “but it was kind of fun to work today. By the way, dad said to tell you hello.”

“He’s so sweet,” said Diamond, “ever since he decided to be a loving father and not some jerk with his head up his flanks.”

The two laughed.

“I saw Rarity as I was coming in, she said something about an invitation,” said Sweetie Belle, “what do you know about it?”

“I don’t know,’ said Diamond, “she said to wait to open it until you got home.”

They kissed again and walked into the kitchen. There on the table was a pink envelope. Addressed:

To: Mrs. And Mrs. Rich

From: OMC

When opened, it read:

Greetings Diamond Tiara And Sweetie Belle Rich;

You’re cordially invited to dinner at the Bon-Bon Candy Shop this evening at 7:30 p.m. We hope you’ll honor us with your presence and consider membership in our little club.

Until then we remain,

Sincerely Yours,

The Old Mares Club

“The Old Mares Club?” said Diamond and Sweetie at the same time.

“I guess it can’t hurt to check it out.” Said Sweetie, “at least we don’t have to cook tonight.”

“Dinner at the candy shop?” said Diamond, “that’d have been a dream come true when I was a little filly.”

The two laughed.

“Well that leaves us an hour, I wonder what we could do in the mean time?” said Diamond with a sly sideward glance at the stairs.

It took less than a minute for them to get up the stairs and into each other’s marehood.

It was 7:25 and Diamond and Sweetie were standing outside of Bon-Bon’s sweet shop. There was a closed sign on the door, but there were lights in the window and voices coming from inside.

They door was unlocked so they opened it and went in.

There were Twilight and Muffins Sparkle, Applejack and Rarity Apple, Rainbow and Pinkie Dash and Lyra and Bon-Bon Heartstrings. They all looked at the girls and smiled.

“There’s our girls,” said Rarity.

“Hey ladies! Look at their tails,” said Rainbow kidding, “they don’t waste any time! Horny little mares, don’t you think?

Pay up Muffins!”

It was hard to tell but Muffins rolled her eyes and put two bits in front of Rainbow.

“I bet Muffins that they couldn’t go one hour without getting frisky,” laughed Rainbow.

All, including Muffins, Diamond and Sweetie, had a good laugh.

“Come in and have a seat,” said Lyra, “we’re about to eat.”

“So what’s…” started, Diamond.

“Sorry Sweetheart,” interrupted Bon-Bon, “eat first, business later.”

Bon-Bon and Lyra motioned to two cushions at the table with the rest of the mares. The girls had a seat and the Heartstrings went to the back of the shop and brought out individual bowls, eating implements, wine glasses, a large bowl of salad, some fruit and several bottles of wine.

They ate, made small talk asking the girls about their first day back to work. There was quite a lot of kidding, with and about, everypony. It was mostly sexual innuendo. And a lot of wine and a lot of laughter.

Finally they finished the salad. The Heartstrings cleared away the bowls and brought out dishes of candy and more wine.

“I guess you want to know what’s going on,” said Bon-Bon, looking at the newcomers as Lyra poured generous portions of wine with her magic for everypony, “our little club started several years ago, right after Twilight, Muffins, Applejack and Rarity got married. At first there were issues with ponies not accepting mares marrying mares, as Lyra and I soon found out after our wedding.

So we created this little group to give moral and other support to married mare couples.

Rainbow and Pinkie joined not long after their marriage and now we’d like to extend the same invitation to our newest married mare couple.”

“Most of the issues with public acceptance have disappeared.” Continued Lyra, “but we still get together because of our common interest.

And it doesn’t matter if you’re a admitted mare-lover, a mare who loves a mare or like Pinkie a mare who loves a mare-lover.”

Pinkie giggled.

“What it comes down to Darlings,” said Rarity, “is there’re just enough differences with our life styles as opposed to the common pony to warrant a group to help each other with the little nuances.”

“You remember the issues you had with Diamond’s dad at first.” Said Twilight, “those attitudes still exist, if mostly underground.”

“And as with Filthy Rich,” said Muffins, “sometimes all it takes to change a pony’s heart and mind is putting what they think in a proper perspective.”

“But most of all,” said Rainbow, “we meet, eat, laugh and just have an excuse to gossip, drink wine and have a good time.”

“The only expectation is to be available to any pony havin’ an issue and needin’ somepony to talk to,” said Applejack, “and host a meetin’ when it’s your turn, and we meet once a month.”

Diamond looked at Sweetie, they both smiled. Diamond nodded to Sweetie.

“Diamond and I would love to join your group.” Said Sweetie, then kidding, “if you think we qualify.”

“I don’t know,” said Lyra, looking at Bon-Bon. “I remember at the bachelorette party, they had trouble with your chocolate marehood eating game. What do you think Baby?”

“I’m not sure,” said Bon-Bon, the other mares trying not to giggle, “I bet they can’t even kiss a mare properly. They probably think it’s some kind of a game. We heard that they started with Spin the Bottle, they probably think they’re still playing at it.”

Diamond just looked at Sweetie Belle. Then they grabbed each other, and started kissing as passionately as they could. They’d back off the kiss enough to show some ‘serious tongue action’. After several minutes, they broke the kiss, breathing heavy and holding each other. Sweetie then looked at Lyra and Bon-Bon.

“Good enough? We may be new to this married stuff but we’ve been perfecting our kissing for years now.”

“Or do we have to show you how sex between two mares is really done?” asked Diamond.

A cheer broke out among the mares they stood up and gathered around their new members.

“We were testing your sense of humor. You passed with flying colors.” Said Bon-Bon laughing. “This is a serious support club, but we also have fun.”

Sweetie and Diamond joined in the laughter. Then Sweetie asked;

“By the way, why ‘Old Mares Club’?”

“You’ve heard the expression something is just an Old Mares Tale?’ said Pinkie with a grin, “well, we all love a good Mare’s Tail”

“Stories?” asked Diamond.

“No,” said Pinkie, “t-a-i-l.”

Then Pinkie, as obvious as possible, put her hoof under Rainbow’s tail and ‘goosed’ her marehood.

“Hey!” said Rainbow, with a smile, “don’t do that unless you’re going to do something about it!”

“I’ve every intention My Love!” said Pinkie and then kissed Rainbow deeply.

All laughed and the evening went on with a lot of wine and laughter.

CHAPTER SEVEN: Echoes Of The Past And Present

It was several months later and life in Ponyville went on like normal.

Apple Bloom continued her immersion studies with Zecora, who was greatly impressed with the level of her mastery.
When Apple Bloom first arrived at Zecora’s hut to start her training, the first shock was when the zebra told her as a sign of her apprenticeship and her status as a shaman, she had to have her mane cut then crop and bind her tail.
Zecora removed Apple Bloom’s signature hair bow. It was placed in a chest by the wall, as a sign of giving up her old life, the zebra explained. Then the zebra produced some shears, Apple Bloom stood there as locks of red hair fell to the floor. Apple Bloom wasn’t sure if she was going to cry or not.
The zebra then took a small bowl with some thick waxy substance, she dipped a hoof in it and then rubbed it throughout Apple Blooms mane, or what was left of it. Then a comb flew from a shelf and Apple Bloom felt it going through her hair.
Zecora then took some of the cut hair from her mane and bound the base of her tail. Then with the shears, Zecora cut about half of Apple Bloom’s tail hair off.
When finished, a mirror floated in front of Apple Bloom. To her surprise, it didn't look that bad. Her mane was a red copy of the way she’d always seen Zecora’s, as was her tail. Somehow it made her feel like a shaman.

Scootaloo worked hard to impress her hero turned mother at mastering the weather. And she proved to be an excellent flyer which gave her mother no end of pride. She was also showing promise with the magic that her other mother and Twilight were teaching her.

Silver Spoon was a joy to her students whenever she’d student-teach. She was loving to her students, patient and giving. Students couldn’t wait to go to class when Silver was doing her student teaching. She was also there for all her friends. She was the touchstone that kept the little group linked with them all going about in different directions with their lives. Silver Spoon made sure that all their friends stayed in touch.

Dinky continued to handle the library efficiently enough to free up Twilight to do more advanced studies and research. Also her mastery of magic impressed her mother to the point that she wished that Dinky would’ve been identified earlier so to go to Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns. But Celestia was still satisfied with Twilight’s tutelage and would reassure her that the extra schooling wasn’t necessary.

Sweetie Bell and Diamond Tiara continued to be an inspiration to all their friends and all ponies that knew them. They worked hard at their jobs. And while out in public, it was obvious how deep their relationship was and how great their love was.

Then there was Dawn…

She wasn’t yet ten years old and she was as tall as her eighteen-year-old sister Dinky. Her horn was noticeably longer, her wings were larger than the normal Pegasi of Cookie’s age as well. It was obvious because of her being an Alicorn her body form and growth was slightly different from the normal Unicorn/Pegasus/Earth Pony.
As to her magic abilities, her training at Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns, was more for control of her growing talents although she was taught advanced skills as well.
But her flying abilities were impressive.
However, she did have a mischievous streak. Twilight blamed this on Muffins who could be quite the imp. Once while Rainbow was giving some advanced flying lessons to Scootaloo, Dawn streaked by and performed a perfect sonic rainboom which nearly knocked the two Pegasi out of the sky.
She’d thought it extremely funny to have Rainbow and Scootaloo Dash chase her, but not quite catch her. She landed and the Dash’s tackled her and tickle her unmercifully.
They were a little jealous of her abilities but they also loved her greatly being that she was the child of their very good friends (and Rainbow’s secret lovers) Twilight and Muffins.
Rainbow had taken time at an early age to help train Dawn’s flying abilities, but Muffins was training her as well, Rainbow had discovered at an earlier time Muffins was an amazing flyer herself. It had taken no little skill to have snatched up Scootaloo at full speed when she was needed while Rainbow, Twilight and Pinkie were in the underworld.

Apple Bloom was getting used to the regimented day. Chores in the morning and evening, meals, meditation (which she found to be more enjoyable than she first thought) and lessons, practice and reading throughout the day. She also assisted her mistress when anypony visited for cures, healing or just to pick up some herbal tea blend.
Zecora was just as gentle and patient as before. However she was slightly more demanding of Apple Bloom but only because she knew that she could deliver more.
She was getting comfortable with the routine. Nothing out of the norm happened until one morning...

Apple Bloom sat up straight on her cot, a scream issuing from her mouth. No slow awakening from the sound sleep from honest hard day’s work. This was an awakening from a dream so real it was hard to believe that it was a dream.

She had seen her mother as a little filly. A stallion was abusing her. Defenseless, threatened and scared beyond anything she’d ever felt. As the stallion forced her to her knees, Apple Bloom’s perspective changed, she was now in her mother’s body. She felt the pain from the blows that the monster had inflicted. Then came the penetration from the monster’s ‘thing’. It was the pain of a virgin’s violation in a marehood too small for sex as of yet. Then came the demeaning act of being made to have oral sex with the stallion, the sickening feeling of him ejaculating in her mouth. She whimpered, afraid to cry out because of the threat of death. Although death might’ve been preferable to the pain and shame she was feeling now.

Then the perspective changed again, the stallion was the same but looked older, the pony changed as well. It was her friend Diamond Tiara, the stallion too large for her to adequately defend herself against, was slapping her around. Diamond spun around and with her hind legs delivered a kick to the monster’s face. It only stunned the stallion for a moment. Diamond tried to run away but the brute was too fast. He leapt to Diamond’s back, she fell flat on her stomach. The monster then took both of his front hooves and hit her at the base of the scull. There was a sickening snap! Diamond went limp, the light in her eyes went out. Apple Bloom could tell that she was dead. The monster only laughed and proceeded to rape her dead friend.

“No!” screamed Apple Bloom, the stallion turned and looked at her and smiled. It was the first time she’d got a look at his face, but the face she saw shocked her, it looked strangely like her own face.

Apple Bloom’s tears were pouring and she was suddenly awake.

Zecora appeared in the doorway of the anteroom Apple Bloom was using as her living space at Zecora’s hut. Zecora saw Apple Bloom sitting up on the cot, there was the look of pure fear on her face.

“Apple Bloom my student, I’m right here;

It was only a dream, there’s nothing to fear.”

Apple Bloom looked like she was trying hard to figure what to say and how to say it. Zecora was impressed, even with the stress of the situation, Apple Bloom was trying to meet the expectations Zecora had placed on her. Zecora walked over to her student, sat beside Apple Bloom and gently stroked her mane.

“It’s alright to speak plainly this time.” Said Zecora, reassuringly in pony.

To her credit, Apple Bloom still responded in zebra.

“Mistress, it was horrible! I saw the monster that raped my mother when she was little. I felt it and experienced the whole thing, the pain, the shame, and the fear! Then everything changed, I saw the same stallion, older. He was attacking Diamond Tiara.” Said Apple Bloom starting to cry harder.
“She tried to fight back. But, but, but…

HE KILLED HER!

Then he raped her anyway and just laughed. He laughed just like he did when he raped my mother! I could only think of how devastated Sweetie Belle was going to be! He turned to look at me but it was my face I saw!”
Apple Bloom grabbed Zecora and buried her face in her chest and cried uncontrollably. Zecora held Apple Bloom close. She started to chant a comforting song, the words were only half-recognizable to Apple Bloom. But it had its effect, a forgetful drowsiness moved over Apple Bloom.
Zecora gave a lingering kiss on her apprentice’s lips. She was surprised that even going to sleep, Apple Bloom put her forelegs around Zecora’s neck. Held her tight and returned the kiss with tongue and all.
“Asante bwana wangu na mpenzi wangu.1” said a drowsy Apple Bloom. The spell was almost acting like acohol and breaking down beariers in Apple Bloom’s mind.
“Wewe ni kuwakaribisha, mwanafunzi wangu nzuri, na upendo wangu,2”replied Zecora.
“Je, kufanya mapenzi na mimi?3 ” Asked Apple Bloom.
“Sisi majadiliano kuhusu hilo, mpenzi wangu mwanafunzi.4” said Zecora looking loveingly into her apprentice’s eyes.
They kissed again, but longer and deeper.
It was hard for Zecora to not go any further, it had been a very long time since she was intimate with anyzebra. Plus there were no rules that a master was restricted from having relations with an apprentice. But she had to make sure it wasn’t the situation or the spell.
Then it happened, with Apple Bloom embracing her place as a full protégéé and apprentice, a shaman medicine spiral appeared on Apple Bloom’s flanks. Zecora kissed Apple Bloom.
Zecora lay her student back on her cot, by the time her head was on the pillow, she was in a dreamless sleep
Then she left the room.

Zecora went out to meditate. As she was expecting, her spirit guide appeared to her. They spoke to each other in her mind.
‘It has begun Zecora,’ said Dahood, ‘your apprentice has great potential. It’s good she’s the first of her race to learn your people’s ways. This dream is her ‘vision’ awakening. It’ll be her first and perhaps greatest trial.’
‘So what she’s seen is real, the past and future?’ thought Zecora.
‘Yes,’ replied the spirit guide, ‘her mother’s memories come through her connection with her mother, she’s a product of her body and so the memories were passed on at a very deep level. But she’s starting to be able to tap into the flow of time.’
‘So she really did experience her mother’s violation?’
‘Yes.’
‘What of her friend’s attack and murder?’
‘Time is like bread,’ said Dahood. ‘The loaf of bread is the shape it is because it has been formed and baked. The shape was chosen by the baker.

That’s the past, unchangeable.

But the future is like the dough unbaked. It’s still bread, but it has yet to be shaped and will not be shaped until the baker is ready to bake it. At that time the baker will choose the shape based on what has happened up to then. Everything is there that can happen. But the slightest thing can change the future.’
‘Do you always speak in metaphor my friend?’ thought Zecora with a smile.
‘Yes,’ said Dahood, Zecora could feel his smile, ‘it makes me sound wise.’
Then his tone changed;
‘She will be faced with a situation which will test her dedication to the teachings. She must be reminded she has devoted herself to helping others. Force and violence is only in self-defense and as a last resort. Killing is to be avoided, except perhaps in the defense of ones in your care.
Revenge is never to be tolerated, ever. Not only because it’s counter to the teachings, but moreover, it’s a path to self-destruction. In my time there was a saying;

When seeking vengeance, you first must dig two graves.

Make sure when she’s confronted, as confronted she’ll be, she acts in the shaman way. The sin of patricide must not be committed.’
‘You can’t be a healer and yet harm others,’ thought Zecora.
‘Exactly,’ returned Dahood.
The spirit guide paused, then continued.

‘Also, you need to make sure that your own feelings for your apprentice are shared by her without you shepherding them. The bond between Shaman and apprentice can be a deep one and lovers are not unheard of. But it must come with mutual consent.’
‘You saw that,’ thought Zecora.
‘I saw that,’ said Dahood, there was no condemnation in his voice.
‘I really have been wanting to do that for some time,’ said Zecora in her mind.
‘Don’t worry about it,’ said Dahood, ‘it’s part of nature. And she is a lovely and attractive pony. I wish you all the best. Just take it slow.’
‘I will Dahood,’ replied Zecora.
Zecora felt her guide smile while he faded away. Zecora remained in meditation, but it was hard to totally clear her mind. She was feeling Apple Bloom’s soft lips in her mind.
‘Jamani!5’ thought the zebra, ‘am I really feeling this way for a pony? But Apple Bloom is so sweet and attractive. Her spirit is as great as any zebra.’
Thoughts like this continued until the sun came up and was time for she and her apprentice to start the day.

Apple Bloom was already preparing the morning meal for her mistress and herself. Zecora watched her from the doorway. She kept finding herself focusing on Apple Bloom’s flanks.
But Zecora was also happy that Apple Bloom, like all the Apples, was such a good cook. Zecora could put together potions and brews to do just about anything. Her herbal tea blends were to die for. But when it came to food, her cooking could sometimes turn a vulture’s stomach.
As Zecora stood there, lost in thought, she felt the embrace of her student.
Apple Bloom kissed Zecora.
“I'm sorry about last night. I should haven't have acted the way I did,” said Apple Bloom in zebra.
“It’s alright my student, nightmares can be unnerving,” replied Zecora.
Under conditions like this, Apple Bloom had learned that in private and not in a learning environment, it was alright to speak zebra but not in verse.
“That isn’t it,” said Apple Bloom, “about me being so forward. But I can’t help it. For a long time, I’ve found you attractive. I guess I should’ve kept it to myself.”
Zecora looked into her student’s eyes. She didn’t see lust or deviance. She saw an honest attraction and feelings.
“I think we should talk about this,” said Zecora, “breakfast can wait.”
Apple Bloom was concerned as she walked out into the front room and had a seat on a cushion in front of the zebra’s ‘Teaching Chair’. But Zecora went toward her bedchamber.
“I think in here would be more comfortable,” said Zecora.
Apple Bloom’s smile was as large as her teacher’s.

Apple Bloom and Zecora were on Zecora’s bed, embracing and basking in the afterglow of lovemaking.
“I know that this is probably too late to ask,” said Apple Bloom, “but have we broken any rules or the spirit of the shaman way?”
Zecora kissed Apple Bloom deeply then spoke;
“No my darling student,” said the zebra, “our magic is based on nature. And there is nothing more basic in nature as sex and love. A mistress and student are supposed to be close, absolute trust. And who would you trust more than a lover?”
“Were you and your master lovers?” asked Apple Bloom, snuggling closer. Her hoof was tracing the stripes of the zebra’s coat. Zecora was getting a thrill from this.
“In my case, it would’ve been odd and unnatural,” said the zebra with a chuckle, “Kin’la, my mistress was a great and powerful shaman, but she was also my mother.”
Apple Bloom snickered as Zecora chuckled.
“I guess that would be creepy,” said Apple Bloom.
The zebra smiled and nodded.
“We better get our day started,” said Zecora, looking into Apple Bloom’s eyes.
Suddenly Zecora felt a hoof at her marehood.
“Maybe one more time before we do? My darling mistress,” asked Apple Bloom.
“One more time, my love,” said the zebra.
Apple Bloom didn’t get to say anything. Zecora’s tongue was in her mouth and the zebra’s hoof was exploring Apple Bloom’s marehood.

Later that day, Zecora and Apple Bloom talked about Apple Bloom’s dream and the meaning. Zecora said that there was a good chance she would meet her father, it was inevitable.
“Mistress,” said Apple Bloom, “I have no father, what was done in the past is past. Nothing I can do will ever change that. No, there is one thing I could do. I have to forgive him, but nothing else except pity him that he will never really know peace.

On making the right choice, Apple Bloom receives her cutie mark. It is the sun disc spiral of a shaman with an apple superimposed.
To celebrate, Zecora gives Apple Bloom her first dzilla neck ring. As a sign of completing the first part of her apprenticeship. They celebrate Apple Bloom’s advancement and have a happy evening, drinking a homemade beverage from Zecora’s native land (Kaffir beer).

The next day, after Zecora taught Apple Bloom how to make a hangover remedy, they made a trip to Sweet Apple Acres. Zecora felt it was only proper to talk to Apple Bloom’s mothers about the new relationship between their daughter and herself. To the thrill of all, Applejack and Rarity were beside themselves with the news.

Author's Note

1 Thank you my master and my love.
2 You're welcome, my beautiful student, and my love.
3 Will you make love to me?
4 We will talk about it, my darling student.
5 Damn It!

CHAPTER EIGHT: It All Comes Out (To The Relief Of All)

Scootaloo flew home after her day at work. She worked as a supervisor on one of Rainbow’s Weather Teams. At first the other ponies thought there was a bit of nepotism going on and she got the position because of being Rainbow’s daughter. But it turned out her skill with the weather and not to mention her command of magic, gave her a distinct advantage. Her team now welcomed her leadership, and appreciated her skills.

On entering the cloud house, Scootaloo could smell Pinkie’s cooking. That alone had been worth the adoption. But she really did appreciate the family she now had. Not a day went by that she didn’t think how lucky she was to be the daughter of Rainbow and Pinkie Dash.

“I’m home!” called out Scootaloo.

Pinkie came trotting out of the kitchen. She gave Scoot a hug and a motherly kiss.

“How was my favorite daughter’s day today?” asked the pink pony.

“It was good,” said Scootaloo with a smile. “And I’m your only daughter.”

“Then I guess if you want to look at it like that, then you’d have to be my least favorite daughter,” giggled Pinkie.

“Oh mom!” laughed Scootaloo.

Pinkie hugged Scoot again. It wasn’t only Scootaloo who enjoyed the mother/daughter relationship. Pinkie loved children so much, even the grownup ones. And it didn’t matter Scoot was adopted. She was her daughter and next to her relationship with her wife (and lovers) it was the most important thing in her life.

After the adoption of Scootaloo, Pinkie decided to become a full time ‘house wife’. She enjoyed taking care of Rainbow and Scootaloo and wanted nothing more out of life.

“Go clean up,” said Pinkie, “dinner will be ready soon, we’ll eat when your mother gets home.”

“Clean up?” said Scoot, in (by now) an old joke with Pinkie, “I work all day with clouds full of water.”

“Just do it silly,” said Pinkie giving her daughter a kiss.

Scootaloo trotted off laughing to her room and then to the bathroom. Pinkie went back to the kitchen.

It wasn’t long before Rainbow came through the front door. Her wife and daughter greeted her. It was hard for Rainbow to believe at one time she’d wanted no relationships to tie her down. If she could pull a ‘Twilight’ and go back in time to the past Rainbow, she’d have her past self slap the horse-apples out of herself for being so stupidly closed-minded.

Dinner was fantastic as usual, and the little family sat around after, enjoying one of Pinkie’s cakes and some coffee.

Then Scootaloo suddenly looked uncomfortable.

“What’s wrong Squirt?” asked Rainbow, noticing her daughters look.

“Mom, don’t take this wrong,” said Scoot uncomfortably. “I need to ask something, and I know it may be none of my business, and if so tell me. But Dinky and I were talking and we’re concerned.”

“Concerned?” asked Pinkie.

“Concerned about our parents. No offense, but the four of you’ve been acting a bit goofy, and for some time now. You’ve been having these overnight ‘meetings’ more and more often. We aren’t foals, so we know what's going on.”

Scootaloo paused;

“We want to know why it’s going on for real. We love you all so much. We just want to understand.”

Rainbow and Pinkie looked at each other. They knew that someday they’d have to come clean about the special relationship that they shared with Twilight and Muffins.

“Sweetheart,” said Pinkie, taking Scootaloo’s hoof, “you’re right, there’s ‘something’. And you and Dinky do deserve to know the whole truth. And it may be more than you realize. We need to talk to Twilight and Muffins, and then we promise we’ll tell you and Dinky everything.”

“That’s all I ask, mom.” Said Scootaloo, getting up kissing Rainbow and Pinkie and going back to her room.

That evening, the Dash’s dropped in on the Sparkles. They were sitting at the kitchen table, sipping some delicious wine. As it turned out, Dinky had the same talk with her mothers that day as well.

“We knew this would happen, one day.” Said Twilight, “and as I see it we have two choices. Come clean to our families and end this relationship.”

There were troubled looks all around. Rainbow was looking in Twilight’s eyes; a sad look crossed her face.

“Or?” asked Muffins.

“We come clean about all this to ALL our family and friends, we go public. We continue the relationship and face the consequences.” Said Twilight, there was trepidation in her voice. “For the record, I’m for the second one. But the ponies who need to really make this decision are you, Muffins and Pinkie. Rainbow and I are in a position that’d make us unable to make an unbiased decision.”

“I’m all for the letting everypony know.” Said Pinkie, “but I’m just as involved as the two of you. However, Muffins, you didn’t go through the underworld, you didn’t experience the feeling of the displacement of time. And I know how much you’ve enjoyed the four of us together; but you’re probably the only one who can make a decision without any influence from the experience.”

Muffins sat quiet for a moment, all eyes were on her.

“I know if I said I wanted to put an end to this, all of you would honor the request, I’ve no doubt of it. But I’ve no doubt none of you’d be happy, at least fully happy until the situation changed, and that’s when Pinkie and I are gone. And I hope it won’t be for years to come. I don’t think Pinkie and I could put up with the two of you sulking around for years.”

“Darling,” said Twilight, “don’t let that be the deciding factor. Rainbow and I have already told each other we’d always abide with whatever you and Pinkie wanted.”

“Is that true?” asked Muffins to Rainbow.

“It is, we love each other but we also love you two more than anything. And if it was your decision. We’ll do what you say. No sneaking around, no moping, no anything.” Said Rainbow.

Muffins thought, there was an odd look on her face.

“Pinkie, would you come over here?” asked Muffins. She motioned for Pinkie to come over.

“Yes, Muffins?” answered the pink pony.

Muffins motioned for Pinkie to come closer. Pinkie leaned in. It looked as if Muffins was whispering in Pinkie’s ear. Then the way Pinkie started to tremble and moan, it was apparent that Muffins was kissing Pinkie’s ear with her tongue deep in it.

Pinkie grabbed Muffins and proceeded to kiss her quite passionately.

“Do you two actually think Pinkie and I want to give all this up?” said Muffins breaking the kiss. “We love our wives dearly. But according to Luna, we’re all our wives.”

“Then I take it you’re for breaking it to all our friends?” asked Rainbow.

“I do,” then Muffins turned to Twilight, “I think it might be a good idea to send a message to Luna to ask her advice on this.”

A week later, there was a dinner at Sugarcube Corner. Pinkie had the chance to decorate the place. It wasn’t as ‘over the top’ as some of her parties, but it was lively enough.

There were in attendance; Rainbow, Pinkie and Scootaloo Dash. Big Mac, Cheerilee, Applejack, Rarity. Apple Bloom Apple was with Zecora and everypony could tell the affection the new couple were showing each other, much to the delight of Apple Bloom’s moms. Twilight, Muffins, Dinky, Dawn Sparkle along with Sparkler Star. Lyra and Bon-Bon Heartstrings. Hondo Flanks and Cookie Crumbles. Octavia Melody and Vinyl Scratch (Pinkie made a note [no pun intended] to herself to ask about why her friend was with the white Unicorn so much, but she had a good idea why). Filthy, Spoiled, Diamond Tiara and Sweetie Belle Rich. There were also Silver Spoon and her new husband Shady Daze.

Rainbow, Twilight, Pinkie and Muffins were at a table, talking low. Several of the ponies gathered could tell that they were looking nervous. Rarity and Applejack walked over to check on their friends.

“’kay,” said AJ, “y’all look ‘more nervous than a worm in an apple on cider makin’ day’. You goin’ to tell us what’s up or is this all to try to distract our attention from somethin’?”

“I think what my darling wife is trying to say;” said Rarity, “you four have been acting odd for some time. We thought we were all PFF’s. If there’s trouble, we want to know. We’ve always been there for each other.”

The four looked at each other; they all nodded in consent to Twilight.

“You’re right,” said Twilight, “I think it’s time to tell everypony.”

All four ponies at the table took a large drink of wine. Twilight stood up and called out.

“Everypony, I’d like to tell you all something.” Said Twilight, then taking another slug of wine.

“You all know about the thing which happened about eight years ago when, who we thought was Muffins late ex-husband returned from the past. At the same time, Pinkie was in that dreadful accident which nearly killed her.

Shooting Star had put a restraining order on me to keep me from my family, he even threatened to kill me if the law didn’t work. As you might understand it depressed me. Then I found out Pinkie wasn’t going to make it, I’d overheard Rainbow telling Pinkie when Pinkie did pass away, she was going to kill herself rather than go on without her.

That plus the perceived loss of my family caused me to consider a rather extreme measure. I was going to use a spell to give my life force to save Pinkie. I didn’t want to go on without my family or friends.”

There were some murmurs from the gathered ponies, some had heard this before and for some, it was the first time hearing the details. Twilight continued;

“Before I could do this, Shooting Star knocked me out and did the spell and gave his life-force to Pinkie in a selfless act for a pony he didn’t know.

Or so we thought. It turned out he was only incomplete copy of Shooting Star, some evil and uncaring copy. His actions were a deeper plot to get control of my power by holding part of Pinkie’s spirit hostage in the underworld. It was to get me to come to him in a situation I would’ve been at a disadvantage. He was going to use his knowledge and my power to take over Equestria, and then the world.

By the skills of our friends Zecora and her now student and marefriend Apple Bloom, Rainbow and I went to the underworld to save Pinkie. We defeated Shooting Star with the help of Pinkie who learned magic while sharing minds with Shooting Star.

This, most or all of you have all heard. And for the most part it’s all the important points.”

Twilight paused, she looked at her companions, who gave her a look of ‘go ahead’;

“What you don’t know is how we were able to defeat Shooting Star when he had the advantage of the situation knowing how things work different in the underworld.

His intent was to distract us enough so we couldn’t learn how to cope with the differences in time, physics and magic to properly defend ourselves and save Pinkie.

This is the part you’re going to have to take on faith or go talk to the princesses to get verification.

Time in the underworld doesn’t work the same as here. Past, present and future are all accessible at the same time. Shooting Star had learned in the distant future, after Muffins and Pinkie were gone, Rainbow and I would look to each other for comfort and fall in love.”

More murmurs from the ponies. Twilight went on;

“He took advantage of the situation and made Rainbow and I not only realize this fact, but by using the odd time flow, made us feel the feelings of that future time, and perhaps some feelings which were there to begin with. He’d hoped to confuse us, by distracting us and having to deal with these feelings he’d be able to overcome us and take over my body and return to the real world and conquer.

But being he was what he was, he forgot the power real love can have on a pony. I was willing to let Shooting Star take over my body, counting on the fact Rainbow would kill me when we got back. I was willing to die for the ponies I love. However, Rainbow was willing to take Shooting Star to limbo herself, and sacrifice herself to save the ponies she loves.”

Twilight paused. She wasn’t sure if she was getting the points across she was trying to. The ponies in the crowd were talking among themselves.

“What are you trying to say Darling?” asked Rarity.

Twilight took a deep breath.

“The feelings we were made aware of were not some illusion. They were real feelings we would’ve felt in the future. But because of the situation, they became a part of us now. Rainbow, Pinkie, Muffins and I have become in love with each other equally.

It’s nothing we intended, but now because it has happened, it’s nothing we can overlook. We’ve been afraid to let you know, our friends and family, for fear of what you might think. We’ve tried to be discreet but it has become harder as time goes by. As all of you know, love, good love, grows.

Princess Luna explained it to us, she said it was as if we four are now truly married to each other.”

Twilight sat down and the four ponies hung their heads, as if they were ready to receive ridicule from ponies they respected greatly. The other ponies around talked among themselves. Not sure what to think or what they were hearing.

Then Filthy Rich stepped forward as if to talk to the four ponies but he turned to talk to the ponies gathered.

“I know most of you ponies know what I went through when Diamond and Sweetie were dating. I had my head so far up my flanks it looked like I needed to have a window installed in my stomach so I could see where I was going.” Several ponies chuckled, Filthy smiled. “I learned then love isn’t always what I judge it to be. My thoughts are not the rule, only the heart is.

Had I not learned to be open to what love really is, I would’ve lost my wife, my son, my daughter and the pony who turned out to be the best business partner ever, my new daughter, Sweetie Belle. And the result of my changing my mind was a more satisfying and fulfilling relationship with my family and friends.

Plus, I don’t think there’s a pony here that’d go face to face with Princess Luna and tell her what she thinks about love is wrong.”

Most ponies that had known Filthy before were in shock to hear him talk thus.

“If four ponies are in love with each other, I say fantastic! If there’re any problems with such a relationship, then it’s something they have to work through among themselves. I for one will be here to support them, just as they supported my daughters when they were going through their time of discovery.”

Cheers broke out among the ponies gathered. There were hugs and well wishes to the four ponies.

Most went back to snacking and talking among themselves. All but AJ and Rarity, they just stood by until all the other ponies had finished talking to the four.

“What’s wrong?” asked Muffins.

“Didn’t you trust us to tell us up front?” asked Rarity, sounding hurt.

“No! Celestia no!” said Twilight, “every time we’ve talked this through. We’ve always acknowledged the two of you were the last ponies we had to worry about. It’s only recently that we’ve even decided to come clean about this.

We’ve kept it from even our closest family. It wasn’t our intention to hurt yours or AJ’s feelings. We’ve been emotional wrecks for the last eight years. Having to hide our feelings. Trying to hide our relationships. While being deeply in love with each other, not just lust, and not just some sick game. But the real, life changing love which strengthens and completes a pony’s life.”

Twilight started to have tears roll down her cheeks.

“Twilight! Darling!” Said Rarity, “I didn’t mean anything bad by asking. We can tell what you’re saying is the truth. It’s just it might’ve been easier to approach us first. We might not love you four like you now love each other. But we love you more than just casual friends.”

Rarity hugged Twilight; AJ joined her as did Rainbow, Pinkie and Muffins.

Rarity then giggled;

“You could’ve at least bragged to us about it! So tell me, is it just loving each other? Or is it LOVING each other?”

“Rarity!” Muffins smiled and said in the best imitation of Rarity’s ‘proper’ voice, “A lady doesn’t talk about such things!”

“Sounds like fun to me,” said AJ.

“You’ve no idea!” said Pinkie.

All laughed.

It was noticed Dinky, Scootaloo and Dawn were standing close by.

“So we want to know, what this means to us?” said Dinky. “Are we going to have to fight for attention from our parents?’

“Or do we have four mothers now?” asked Scootaloo.

The four just looked at each other.

“If you want to have four mothers, that’d be fine with all of us,” said Rainbow.

“Goody!” said Dawn. “I know my new mom Pinkie will give me all the candy I want, just like before. But now I don’t have to worry about it because she’s my mom too!”

“Pinkie!” exclaimed Rainbow, Twilight and Muffins together.

Pinkie blushed as all laughed.

Later that evening, the four were sitting in the living area of the library. The entire extended family was there; Dinky, Dawn, Sparkler and Scootaloo.

They’d had dinner together, the talk had been light. Scootaloo and Dinky told them they had figured as much about their relationship. Dawn was still slightly naive to some of the workings, but she was willing to accept Rainbow, Pinkie and Scootaloo as part of a now extended family.

“So I suppose now everything is out in the open,” said Scootaloo, “you’ll be upgrading your living arrangements.”

“To tell the truth, Squirt,” said Rainbow, “we haven’t gotten that far with this yet.”

“Yes,” said Twilight, “that’s what we were hoping to talk about this evening. The library is too small to accommodate three more adult ponies.”

“And the cloud house is a little too small to add four more ponies and make room for Sparkler’s visits. Plus accommodating to Unicorns is a little tricky. Twilight can make it where you can walk on clouds. But the logistics of getting from the ground to the house and back could be a problem,” said Rainbow.

“Dinky is starting to manage some teleportation, but I’ve never been able to manage it,” said Sparkler, “not that mom hasn’t tried to work with me on it. I’ve started looking for my own place, but it’s nice to visit my parents.”

“It’s okay Darling,” said Muffins, “I’ve learned from Twilight that not all Unicorns are able to do that.”

“And I really don’t think there any homes in Ponyville which might be big enough to hold a family of seven with guest room.” Said Pinkie, thinking out loud.

“I guess this is something we have to look into.” Said Twilight, “perhaps one of the princesses would have a suggestion. They have access to more info that anypony here.”

CHAPTER NINE: A New Way To Live

My Dearest Student Twilight,

My sister informed me of your situation with the found feeling with your friends when it happened. Love is such a special thing, enjoy it and make the most of it. And for what it’s worth, I applaud you for being able to be public with such an issue which might be hard to explain to the common pony.

I also thank you for being up-front with me in you telling me you had to disclose the details about your position to your loved ones. In this case it was perhaps the wisest decision. Please, for now, keep the knowledge to the fewest ponies possible.

As far as suggestion of ‘living arrangements’, Luna and I have thought about it and we think it’s time for you to go to the next level of your education/training.

You and Dawn will rule Equestria one day. That day is still in the far future, but you need to start learning some of workings of statecraft, diplomacy and how a government is run. Plus it’ll make it easier on Dawn to get expanded training at the school without having to worry with the commute to and from Ponyville.

The two of you will also need to learn one of the most important parts of this position. The raising and lowering of the sun and moon. Along with my special position of guardian and guide of the dead.

This is going to be hard on you, especially after all you’ve been through. But you’ll not be able to learn these things in Ponyville.

And so, I’m officially recalling you to Canterlot to start the next phase of your life. Your wife(s) and family are of course welcome and I’m sure you’ll be able to use their talents. You’ll, after all, be needing your own advisors and cabinet members.

I’ll remind you that there’s plenty of room at Canterlot castle, but also the home owned by Muffins is a rather large dwelling and might meet your needs.

I’ll be expecting you to visit with me in the next few days so we can get this arrangement started. As well as planning the ceremony to elevate you to ‘Crown Princess’.

Yours,

Princess Celestia

Twilight had gathered all her friends and lovers along with the involved children. Twilight had already disclosed the contents of the princesses’ letter to Muffins, Rainbow and Pinkie. It was the first Rarity, Applejack and the others had heard of this, Twilight did skip the references to her position. All ponies were in a very thoughtful mood.

“Twilight Darling,” said Rarity, “I suppose for you in particular, you don’t have much choice in this, do you?”

“No Rarity, I guess I could resign but there’s no telling what the consequences would be for me.” Said Twilight, “but I really don’t want to quit, it’s what I’ve been training for most of my life.

My biggest concern is what it’ll mean to my friends here in Ponyville. I’ve lived here over ten years. I’ve made wonderful friends, found love, raised a family and have felt the pain of the loss of one close to me. Ponyville will always be an important part of the pony I am.”

“Twilight, Baby and I know we’ve not been part of your ‘inner circle’, and with all you’ve been through, it may’ve been a good thing.” Said Lyra Heartstrings, “but know the ponies of Ponyville have been proud of you being a member of this community. We’ll miss you and know Ponyville will always be here for you. And perhaps, if you don’t ascend too much on high, we could have an Old Mare’s Club meeting at Canterlot Castle sometime.”

“Most definitely!” said Twilight with a smile. “And I’m sure whatever pony goes with me, we’ll try our best to make the meetings.”

“And what ponies are going with you?” asked AJ.

“We’ve talked among ourselves and have come to a conclusion.” Said Twilight, “Muffins and Dawn are going to go with me, that goes without saying. Because of our situation, Rainbow and Pinkie are going as well.

The princess said that I’ll have to have a cabinet and advisors. I’ll be relying on help from Rainbow for my dealings with the weather bureau. Pinkie and Muffins are happy to be ‘house wives’.

Other positions will be filled as they come open.

But I mostly wanted to ask Applejack about looking into the situation at Sweet Apple Acres and how much help now exists with her cousin Carmel working there.”

AJ just gave a questioning look.

“I’m going to need an advisor on agriculture and I couldn’t think of a pony more well suited.

Plus I know Rarity’s dream has always been to live in Canterlot and design dresses for royalty. I’m not royalty, yet, but I’m going to be considered nobility. And I’m sure there will be enough state functions that proper dresses will be needed. Plus I can’t think of any socialite in Canterlot who wouldn’t want clothing from the designer that makes clothing for the Crown Princess.”

“Making dresses for the Crown Princess!” exclaimed Rarity. Her knees started to buckle, AJ had to prop her up, “in Canterlot!”

“I don’t think I’ve any choice now.” Said AJ with a smile. “If’n I said no, it’ll be very lonely sleeping by myself!”

“What about Spikie-Wikie?” asked Rarity.

“Princess Celestia has assigned him to the Crystal Empire for the time being.” Twilight said, sounding a little sad. “That’s because the crystal mountains are an ideal place for a dragon to take a nap. It turns out from time to time, a dragon has to take a special nap for them to grow correctly. I suggest all ponies who wish to see him off, do so as soon as possible. Dragon naps are one hundred years long. It’s doubtful any pony here will be able to see him again in their lifetime.”

“And what about us?” asked Dinky.

She and Scootaloo were standing nearby.

“Well my dear daughter,” said Twilight, “you and Scootaloo are adults. And I think you should be given the chance to live as such. You’re welcome to come with us to live in Canterlot. Or you can do what we know you can do.

Dinky, if you want, you’re the new Chief Librarian of Ponyville.

“And Scootaloo,” said Rainbow, “you’re the new head of the Ponyville Weather Department.”

The two mares looked at each other, Dinky nodded her head and smiles grew on their faces. However, the kiss they shared was a surprise. When they broke the kiss they looked at their parents.

“Well I’ll be!” exclaimed Rainbow.

“Dinky?” said Muffins.

Twilight and Pinkie tried not to laugh.

“We were going to tell you,” said Dinky.

“We’ve been keeping it secret for years,” said Scootaloo. “We’ve just kept it a better secret than you did. We couldn’t help it, now she’s my sweet little Cookie.”

“And she’s my Scootie,” said Dinky. “We are and have been in love for some time now.”

“We’re sorry,” said Scootaloo, looking a little embarrassed, “Dinky and I enjoyed the kiss during the Spin the Bottle game, just like Sweetie and Diamond.”

“Scootie and I ended up doing what Diamond and Sweetie didn’t do. With each other, not our dates.” Said Dinky, “but when we heard how proud you were of their control, we thought it best to keep it to ourselves.”

“What did you think we were doing when all of you were having your ‘get-togethers’, or when we were ‘studying’ late into the night?” asked Scootaloo, both mares blushed. “But we wanted and still want our mothers to be proud of us.”

“Oh Honey,” said Muffins embracing Dinky, “we would’ve been just as proud of you if we would’ve known.”

“And it might’ve been easier on you two if you would’ve been open about it.” Said Twilight joining the hug.

“And I can’t think of anything you’d do that would make us not be proud of you,” said Rainbow embracing her daughter. “You are my daughter after all.”

They all chuckled.

“We love you and want you to be happy,” said Pinkie pulling the six of them into a larger group hug, “and I approve of your marefriend. It kind of binds all of us together even more.

But Scootaloo, do you realize that you’ve been boinking your sister? ”

They all laughed.

When the group hug ended, Sweetie Belle, Diamond Tiara, Silver Spoon and Apple Bloom all gathered around and congratulated their two friends. They all were now fully in the adult world.

The remainder of the original Mane Six and Muffins start new lives in Canterlot. There they assist Twilight and Dawn in their path to their ultimate destiny. They stay in touch with their sisters and daughters who have stepped up to fill their horseshoes back in Ponyville. But the demands of court and the intrigue that can develop will test their metal.

For the ones left behind in Ponyville, there will be tests for them that will place them on the same footing as the six hero ponies that came before them. Can they face threats as dire as any the Mane Six had faced? And will they find inspiration from those who came before?

EPILOGUE II FOR: THE DERPY I KNOW AND LOVE

All Good Things...

Princess Twilight was laying on her bed of a large cushion in the middle of her private quarters. She’d just woke from a magnificent dream. In it she was, once again, just a simple Unicorn, there was a blue-gray Pegasus pony by her side. A mare with funny but beautiful golden crossed eyes. A pony she’d not seen, but had thought of every single day for the past six thousand years. They were frolicking with a blue Pegasus mare with a rainbow mane and tail there was also a funny pink mare. They were in a land of perpetual sunlight.

No worries, no affairs of state, no responsibilities. She knew that she was deeply in love with all three and they with her.

Twilight had allowed herself only one consort after being made an Alicorn and a princess, a pony who was hers and her first wife’s lover.

Because Muffins had been suffering with painful debilitating hoof issues, the bones were separating form the hooves1, and it was painful for her to even stand. And the head injury Pinkie suffered years ago had caused her to have issues with her memory. Also she started to show signs of loss of control of her body to the point she could barely walk and talk. It was decided that they would follow Celestia and Luna to the underworld and thus not suffer death.

A pony her first wife had told Twilight to watch after just before she and Pinkie had vanished with Celestia and Luna. The sight of them vanishing to the underworld was the last thing she saw every time she closed her eyes at night. The sight of her second wife passing through was always on her mind as well.

Several Millennia Ago…

Rainbow was allowed an extended life span due to the power of the princess, but after three hundred years, she didn’t look it but her body was giving out. It was a privilege that only a royal consort was allowed.

After the loss of Muffins and Pinkie Dash, Twilight couldn’t let herself watch her love suffer. The chamber in the castle hadn’t been opened since then. But because of the special properties of the space, there was no musty smell, no dust, and no cobwebs.
Rainbow kissed Dawn.
“Goodbye my daughter,” said Rainbow, “your mother and I are so proud of the pony you’ve become. And we’ll meet again on the Fields of Elysium.”
“I know, mom,” said Dawn, “I hope that too. Give my love to my other two mothers.”
“I will my dear, dear daughter,” said Rainbow kissing Dawn one more time.
They stood around the glyph laid out in the marble of the floor, Rainbow stood in the middle. Twilight and Dawn spread their wings, their horns glowed. Beams of light converged on the Rainbow. The light was blinding. When it abated, Dawn and Twilight were alone. Twilight closed her eyes to open her mind to the underworld. Dawn left the chamber to let her mother have her last goodbye.

It was a sad goodbye in the underworld. The two lovers stood before the portal to the unknown. It was so hard to let Rainbow go, especially here.
Here in the underworld is where their love came to light. It was here that they shared their first intimacies. Twilight knew in her heart that they would be together again somehow. And she could hear in her mind that Muffins and Pinkie telling her it was okay, and they would all watch out for each other until it was Twilight’s time. No matter how far in the future it would be.
“Goodbye My Love,” said Twilight kissing Rainbow.
“I really don’t want to leave you,” said Rainbow kissing Twilight. “But I’m so tired and I need to rest.”
“I know, Most Beloved Pony,” said Twilight, tears pouring from her eyes.
“Don’t cry for me,” said Rainbow, wiping the tears from her own eyes.
“I don’t,” said Twilight, “I weep for me.
Muffins and Pinkie are gone, and now you. I’m left alone for thousands of years to come. Memories won’t keep me warm at night.”
“Now My Love,” said Rainbow trying to smile, “you say you hear Muffins and Pinkie in your mind. It’s because of that special bond between the four of us that started right here. I’m sure that I’ll be there for you too.
And you could always find love again.”

Twilight smiled for the first time.

“You think that there could ever be anypony who could replace you, Pinkie or Muffins? I don’t think so. And with Muffins in my mind, I don’t think I could live with her chiding me.”
The two laughed and embraced.
“I must go now, My love,” said Rainbow trying to be brave for Twilight. “You need to let me go.”
“I know,” said Twilight, “and I do.”
They kissed again, Rainbow turned and walked toward the portal. She stopped and looked back and then ran to Twilight. They shared the most passionate kiss they could.
“I will always love you,” said Rainbow, “never forget that.”
“I will. And I you,” said Twilight.
Rainbow kissed Twilight one last time then she turned and ran and leapt through the portal, afraid if she walked she couldn’t do it.
Then Twilight was alone. She stood there staring at the portal for what seemed like centuries, but here it may have only been a few moments.
Twilight was so tempted to follow Rainbow, the rest of the world be damned!

“I’ll always be here for you my love,” said Rainbow’s voice in Twilight’s head.
“Me too,” said Muffins’ voice.
“Me three,” said Pinkie.
Twilight smiled as she let her mind return to the ‘real world’. She left the chamber and walked back up the long stair with her daughter, both shedding tears.

The Present…

Princess Dawn had entered the room, she looked at her mother. Dawn was an exact copy of Twilight except for the blond mane and tail and the golden eye color. These were the colors of her other mother who had been gone now for over six thousand years. With only about twenty something years difference in age, it made little difference to the six thousand years they’d shared. She was an equal to Twilight, but Twilight was always her teacher, mentor and mother.

“Mother, it’s time,” said Dawn.
“Yes Dear, I feel the sun is ready to rise.”
“No mother, I mean it’s time. I’ve felt it for a while now.”
“Yes Darling, I’m afraid this will be the last time I raise the sun, and you’ve lowered the moon for your last time.” Said Twilight reflectively, “do you believe your apprentice is up to the challenge?”
“Stargazer is the finest student who has ever studied under me. She’ll do well. What about Sun Chaser?”
“I’d have been envious of her when I was a filly. Amazing how a Pegasus has mastered magic so well. She would have even bested Luster Dawn. I guess we really started something back in our time, and we had thought Pinkie Dash was just a fluke, but Cadence was a Pegasus originally as well.
We leave Equestria in good hooves.”

Dawn was looking out Twilight’s magnificent window.

“Are you afraid, my daughter?”
“I’d be lying if I said no,” said Dawn. “But after six thousand years, I’m tired.”
“I’m tired too, and I too have some fear about this. We’re not going to die, per se, but we’ll not be in this world again, and I’ll miss that. I don’t know what will become of us once we pass the portal. I’m comforted however, by the fact I still hear your mothers’ voices. They direct, encourage and consoles me. Is it a delusion? I don’t think so. They’ve been speaking comfort to me of late.
What ever is beyond, I’m glad that you’ll be with me my darling daughter.”
Twilight got up and walked to her daughter and lightly nuzzled her.
“I’m glad of that as well,” said Dawn.
There were tears in both the princesses’ eyes.

The Chamber of Transition, deep under the castle, was the same as it was the last time Princess Twilight and Princess Dawn were here, allowing Rainbow Sparkle to ‘pass over’ to the other side without death.

Twilight and Dawn had educated their apprentices on what would happen here. They should be ready for some discomfort as the change happens.
Sun Chaser had been to the underworld with her mistress on several occasions and was well aware what would be expected of her once her mentor was gone.

As they walked into the chamber, the two princesses said their final goodbyes (in this world) to their students. Twilight embraced Sun Chaser and gave her a kiss. More than a motherly kiss but less than a lover’s. It was the last kiss that Twilight knew that she’d receive in this world.
They stood and waited for Dawn and Stargazer to finish. It was obvious the relationship was more than just teacher and student.

Twilight, laughing to herself and thought;

‘Muffins, how in Equestria did we raise such a slut? But I guess she’s no worse than Luna was.’

But Twilight meant nothing bad by it, and she could swear she heard three ponies chuckling.

They gathered around the glyph, Twilight and Dawn closed their eyes and spread their wings. A blinding glow emanated from their horns, the crystal amplified it. The light filled the room.
Sun Chaser and Stargazer felt a rush of magic the level they’d never felt before. There was an burning in their bones, It felt as if they were being stretched. Sun Chaser’s forehead felt extremely odd and heavy. Stargazer’s sides felt as if something was tearing through them.
The light became unbearable and then it was gone. Sun Chaser and Stargazer were alone in the chamber. But where there was a Pegasus and Unicorn, there stood two full sized Alicorns.

On the floor the were the tiaras of the Day and the Night.

Princesses Twilight and Dawn were gone.

Princess Sun Chaser closed her eyes and allowed that part of her mind which would always be in the underworld to open.

There in the underworld stood Princesses Twilight, Dawn and Sun Chaser.
“Alicorn looks good on you, my child.” Said Twilight in her motherly voice.
“I only hope I’m worthy of what you’ve left me in charge of,” answered Sun Chaser.
“We felt the same,” said Dawn, “but our teachers told us to lean on each other.”
“So we’re giving you the same advice,” smiled Twilight. “At least I never had to banish my daughter to the moon for a thousand years.”
Dawn chuckled but Sun Chaser looked lost.
“Read the history of Nightmare Moon,” said Dawn.

Then Twilight spoke;
“We can tarry here no longer, we must go. Farewell my student, rule well, make friends and have fun.
But most importantly, find love.”

“I will my teacher,” replied Sun Chaser, “I promise.”

With that Twilight and Dawn walked toward the opening. Twilight heard Muffins’ voice in her head.

‘Be brave and come to us My Love!’

Dawn disappeared through the opening, Twilight looked back one last time. Sun Chaser smiled and nodded, then Twilight entered the void.

There was no sensation of light, feeling or even breathing.

‘It is only limbo, I’ve deluded myself,’ thought Twilight sadly as even consciousness disappeared.

All was dark.

All was still.

However, Twilight noticed that she was still thinking.

‘You know what’s to come, use it wisely, Beloved.’
That was Pinkie’s voice.
‘Prove you’re worthy of this gift, My Love.’
That was Rainbow’s voice.
‘You now truly know what love is, share it with all us, my most Darling Love.’
That was Muffins’ voice.

There was a loud booming crash. Twilight felt something hard and slightly damp on her cheek.
There was another boom.

Twilight opened her eyes. She was on the old couch in the library. The side of her face against the priceless manuscript Celestia had loaned her. She panicked when she realized she’d fallen asleep and was drooling on the original and irreplaceable manuscript of Magic and Science, the Balance of the Universe by Star Swirl the Bearded.
There was another crash of thunder outside. That’d been what had awakened her.

Twilight slowly looked around her. There was a strange feeling in Twilight but nothing in the library looked out of place.

Then it hit her like a ton of horseshoes:

She was in the library.

She was in the library?

SHE WAS IN THE LIBRARY!

Twilight tried to spread her wings as she leapt into the air to fly up the stairs, but to her surprise, she didn’t have any wings and fell to the floor. Undeterred, she nearly tripped over herself in her haste getting off the floor. She went tearing up the stairs, shouting out;

“MUFFINS! Muffins my darling are you here?”

But there was only the sound of the storm outside.
Twilight checked her bedroom, there was Spike’s bed and blanket, empty at the foot of her own bed. She checked the next room, there were only stored books. No crib for Dawn, no bed for Cookie. The next room was stored paperwork, no sign of Sparkler.

Twilight sadly made her way downstairs. Realizing it had all been a dream. She’d never felt sorrow like this before. In her dream she was sure she was going to be reunited with her lovers and friends.

But it was only a cruel dream.

She was just the Unicorn, Twilight Sparkle. Not; Her Grand Royal Highness, Princess Twilight Sparkle, Co-Ruler of Equestria. Not; Crown Princess Twilight Sparkle, Heir To The Throne. Even the title; Lady Twilight Sparkle that she held hadn’t any comfort. She was simply Twilight Sparkle, librarian of Ponyville, single, unattached and most painful of all, alone and unloved.

The disappointment of the whole ‘Pinkie in her bed’ thing was still stinging in the back of her mind. Somehow Twilight knew that the dream of having sex with Pinkie Pie the night she’d found Pinkie in her bed wasn’t really a dream. She was somehow certain that she had indeed shared her virginity with the pink pony and she was okay with that. This made her more certain that she should accept Pinkie’s offer for ‘pity sex’. Twilight had been debating in her mind if she should see if Pinkie was free tonight and see if her offer was still good.

After the ‘dream’, she could now see the solitude she’d always craved was an empty existence.
But if it was only a dream, how could it change her perception this much? Why did she feel like she could remember over six thousand years? And everything wasn’t fading like dreams normally do.
Twilight was confused as well as disappointed and not just a little heartbroken as a couple of tears rolled down her cheek.

Twilight went and made some tea and went back to her studies.
She looked out the window of the main room;

‘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.
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.

Suddenly there was the sound of a knocking at the door. Twilight was shocked, it felt as if her heart stopped, then started to pound like a hammer on an anvil! She got up and rushed to the door.

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. It was all Twilight could do to not rush and embrace her and cover her with kisses.
“Muffins! 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 have come at all.”
Muffins stopped, she’d just realized what Twilight had called her.
“You know my name, my real name? I thought only my closest friends and family cared to know it.”
Twilight only smiled, it was a superpony effort fighting back tears of joy. She then 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, having trouble containing herself. “I take it 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 Muffins. “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.”
“I was just having some tea, would you like a cup. It’ll help warm you.”
“Oh yes, that’d be lovely.” Said Muffins finally looking up and giving a week smile.
Twilight motioned to the sofa. Muffins sat down on one end while Twilight, fetched another teacup, more water and a canister with her prized tea blend. Muffins saw the book Twilight was reading and looked closer. Holding a hoof over one eye, Muffins read the title.
“Magic and Science, the Balance of the Universe,” Muffins 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.”
“You’ve read Star Swirl the Bearded?” She asked, already knowing the answer.
“Oh yes, when you’re raising two beautiful Unicorns, you need to know these things to help them in school,” said Muffins matter-of-factly.
“And how are Sparkler and Cookie?”
“They’re fine,” said Muffins, bewildered.
Muffins wasn’t able to believe her ears. This pony whom she’d always wanted to meet, a mare she’d developed feelings, perhaps deep feelings for. One she was sure would know anything about her and would take no real notice of her, was talking as if she really knew all about her, even the nicknames of her children. She wasn’t sure how she should go on.
Twilight levitated a fresh cup of tea to her guest. Muffins 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 Muffins, sipping her own tea. Twilight was trying to behave as if this was their first meeting, trying to fight back the impulse to teleport Muffins and herself up to the bedroom and start what she knew was going to be the outcome of this meeting.
Truthfully, she was starting to get wet from the anticipation.
The odd look on Twilight’s face didn’t go unnoticed.
“I’m sorry, have I said something wrong?”
“Elysium no!” replied Twilight, trying to remember the drill. It was perhaps six thousand years ago but in Twilight’s mind it felt as vivid as yesterday, “it’s just your knowledge of ancient Unicorn writing, herb lore, and forgive me, but your manner and demeanor aren’t what I was expecting, or at least what I was lead to believe.”
Muffins looked down, a shadow passed over her expression.
“That’s why I’m here”.

“What can I do to help you, Muffins?” asked Twilight.
Muffins was never more confused. She was certain that she’d never talked to Twilight before.
“I’m sorry Twilight, have we been introduced in the past? I’m used to everypony just calling me ‘Derpy’ or ‘Ditsy Do’ because of my eyes, because I tend to be accident prone.” Said Muffins, “I’m flattered you even know my name. I’m not used to ponies showing me any kindness or respect.
I just 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 can imagine it could be quite tough,” said Twilight, reaching out her foreleg and putting it around her shoulder. The physical contact with her beloved Muffins was thrilling. Twilight wanted to embrace her, but it was still too soon.
Twilight pulled her close. Muffins buried her face in Twilight’s chest sobbing uncontrollably. It was all Twilight could do to control herself. She realized this was like her ‘dream,’ but no guarantee it’d turn out the same. With her other foreleg she stroked Muffins’ mane with her hoof. It was as soft and soothing as she remembered. Without stopping her crying, Muffins wrapped her wings around Twilight. Twilight was on the verge of tears herself, it really felt like six thousand years since either Muffins or Rainbow had held her in this special way.
“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 as beautiful as I remember,’ thought Twilight

“I told Rainbow Dash that I needed somepony to talk to about my life. You can only take it so far before the pain has to come out. At first Rainbow Dash almost ignored me, then she saw that 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.’
At that Rainbow Dash said, ‘Twilight Sparkle! She’s the smartest pony I know.’
I told her that 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 with a smile. ‘You don’t know the half of it!’
“I’m sure Rainbow and you are exaggerating.” Said Twilight playing along.
“What?” replied Muffins. “You’re a lovely pony everypony loves.”
‘Lovely pony?’ Thought Twilight, ‘no pony has called me that in centuries.’
“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 this 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’, even Muffins.
“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 me, he’d been married before and had a ten-year-old daughter.”
“That’d be Amethyst Star, wouldn’t it? She’s called Sparkler,” responded Twilight, “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 recognize and praise her daughter like that.
“As I was saying, Shooting Star was several 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. We met while I was interning at the Canterlot Institute of Science.”
“He was the Shooting Star, wasn’t he?” interrupted Twilight. “His work on the understanding of the Science of Magic is required reading at Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns.
I remember the explosion,” Twilight said quietly, as the sorrow returned to Muffins face. “and you’re the one pony who did survive.”
Muffins was again taken aback that this pony that she held in high regard and had a deep crush for, knew so much about her.
“Shooting Star was convinced that 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 that 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. It felt so good. Muffins looked at Twilight and gave a thankful smile.
“I was in grad school when it happened, but I remember.” Said Twilight.
“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 to flashy, something every Unicorn is taught from the time they were 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 spoke 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 not 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.
“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 that I was having trouble focusing on objects more that 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 that I was having trouble seeing clearly. Sparkler brought me a mirror. That’s 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 release of magic is what did it. 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 have 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 trying to relearn 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 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.”
“Yes, I know Dinky, she’s a sweet little filly. 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 that 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’d been a drain on her opening up this much hurt for the first time. She was thankful she did go to see Twilight. Muffins felt genuine concern from Twilight.
Maybe it was something else, or was she just being hopeful?
“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.”
Muffins was working up the nerve to do what she’d intended. It was, in her opinion, now or never. The opportunity may never present it’s self again.
But then Muffins saw ‘that look’ in Twilight’s eyes.
Twilight, with a knowing smile, acted first;
“Let me guess, what that ‘other thing’ is,” said Twilight drawing Muffins closer.
Muffins wasn’t sure how Twilight might even know.
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.
Twilight, no longer able to hold back, kissed Muffins, it was a kiss Muffins wasn’t expecting but had been dreaming of. Both Muffins and Twilight’s forelegs wrapped the other.
It was all Twilight remembered.
It was exactly what Muffins had been hoping and desiring. And it was understood why Twilight had transported them to her bedroom and her bed.
The kiss sent a very pleasant shock through Muffins she’d never felt before. She felt a thrill deep in her belly, as Twilight lay Muffins back on the bed with her hoof at Muffins’ marehood.

It took Muffins’ breath away.

THE END?

Author's Note

1 Laminitis is a crippling condition which can be fatal in severe cases. Once a pony has had an episode of laminitis, they are particularly susceptible to future episodes. Laminitis can be managed but not cured.

EPILOGUE I FOR: THE DERPY I KNOW AND LOVE

Passing the Torch

For the ones left behind in Ponyville, there will be tests for them that will place them on the same footing as the six hero ponies that came before them. They faced threats as dire as any the Mane Six had faced. And they found inspiration from those who came before.