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.