On Valentine's Dayby Rose QuillChaptersSunset Shimmer and Twilight SparkleApplejack and Rainbow DashRarity and FluttershyOctavia and Vinyl ScratchPrincess Luna and Princess Twilight SparkleStarlight Glimmer and TrixieSunset Shimmer and Twilight SparkleI set the candles on the table, glancing over at the kitchen. “How’s dinner coming?” I asked. Twilight leaned around the door to the kitchen, her hair slightly mussed. “It’ll be out in a few minutes,” she said, wiping her brow. “It’s just got to reduce down a bit more.” I nodded and grabbed a pair of glasses off the countertop and poured some nice cider in them. I would have liked to have wine on hand but I’m still a minor according to my id. Applejack, however, had some of the finest cider I’ve ever tasted and it would work out just as well. I heard some plates clinking, almost covering up the sound of Twilight humming happily. I couldn’t see her from where I was without going into the kitchen proper, and I had been expressly forbidden to do so tonight. Everything was set to be a surprise. She had even kept a tight hold on her end of the bond, keeping anything more than excitement out of my perception. I went to finish getting ready, pinning my hair back with my mother’s comb and a bobby pin. I wasn’t one to preen, but I did like putting in an effort for Twilight, just as she did the same. Tonight I had put on a green dress with some red cuffs and hems. Since we were in our apartment, I stayed barefoot. I’m not sure why she wanted to stay in tonight instead of going out for Valentine’s Day. Sure, it was our first one since the wedding, but we’ve gone out plenty of times before. I came back to find her setting plates on the table. I lit the candles and looked at my love, who had dressed up in a long light blue dress and had done her hair up in a butterfly clip, her long tresses falling down to bounce around her face and shoulders. She leaned over and gave me a peck on the cheek before sitting down. “Happy Valentine’s Day, Sunset,” she said. I sat and smiled. “Happy Valentine’s Day,” I replied, looking at my plate. A thick creamy dish sat before me. I grabbed up a bit with my fork and took a bite, tasting the pasta and potatoes. “This is pretty good, Twi,” I said, swallowing the mouthful. “Some sort of stroganoff?” She nodded, chewing on a bite herself before washing it down with a sip of cider. “I tried using vegan meat substitutes to help make the roux. It’s nice being able to try new recipe ideas.” I raised an eyebrow. “After a handful of experimental test runs, I‘m sure,” I smirked before taking a sip of cider myself. She blushed behind her glass, her glasses sliding down slightly as she did. “Only once or twice,” she whispered. We ate a few more bites before I set my fork down on my plate, looking across the table at her, a warm smile on my face. “So,” I said without preamble. “Why did you insist on eating in tonight? You can’t be embarrassed, it’s been a few years and we’ve eaten out plenty of times by ourselves. What gives?” She shifted in her seat slightly, but not in nervousness. Her smile never flickered and I saw none of the uneasiness she used to show. “This is our first Valentine’s Day as a married couple,” she said simply. “I just wanted to spend it with just you and me.” I smiled at that and reached over to hold her hand. “That is probably the sweetest, most sappy thing you’ve ever said, Twilight,” I said. She ran her thumb across my knuckles, the gold of her ring glinting slightly. “I’m glad you think so,” she said, her cheeks coloring slightly. “Which is another reason why I wanted to have this in private,” she said, glancing away, hints of her old nervousness appearing again. “Oh?” “Yeah,” she said, adjusting her glasses. “I was wondering lately. I wanted to know…” she trailed off into a voice softer than Fluttershy had managed at times. “I didn’t quite catch that, Twilight honey.” She took a deep breath and looked at me. “Do you want kids?” “I’ve always thought about it,” I said, getting up and moving over to kiss her. “But things are going to be a bit more complicated for us, I’m afraid.” I looked into her eyes. “Do you want kids?” She twisted a lock of hair in her fingers. “Someday,” she said. “And I know it wouldn’t be as simple as most couples, but there are scientific studies coming out that suggest that we can have children that share both our genetic material.” She smiled. “Plus we have a little advantage that most couples don’t.” She reached up and cupped my cheek. I smirked. “We’ll have to get in touch with Princess Cadence and see what she can tell us.” I leaned down and kissed her again. “But for now, what else do you have planned for the rest of the night?” She leaned back, smiling. “Well first things first, we finish this dinner that your amazing wife prepared,” she said, pointing at my chair. I sat back down, laughing. “And then?” “You’ll just have to wait and see,” she said with a mischievous smirk. I rolled my eyes in return. “You’ve been spending too much time with Rainbow and Pinkie,” I said before sipping my cider again. “You’re getting snarky.” She stuck her tongue out at me as she rose and took her plate to the kitchen. I finished the last bite of my serving and followed suit. I felt her arms slide around my waist as I loaded the dishwasher, her head pressing against my back. I stood and grasped her hands with my own. “Do you ever worry it’s just a dream?” she whispered. “That one day you’ll wake up and find out it was all just a fantasy?” I turned in her arms, taking her by the waist, looking into her eyes. “If so, then I hope it’s your dream,” I said, leaning forward and resting my head on her forehead. “Why mine?” she protested. Because I don’t want to exist in a world without you, Sunshine, I sent through our bond, the love and contentment that followed it building off Twilight’s love. She laughed, a tear or two leaking out. Meanie, she thought back. Make me be the dreamer. I stood up straight and reached behind me, hitting the switch for the dishwasher, starting it up. “I’m about to derail your plans, Twilight,” I said, pulling her along to the bedroom. “I’m fairly sure we were going to wind up in here eventually, Sunny,” she deadpanned. “We both do have to sleep eventually.” I smirked and eased her down onto the bed and got behind her, sliding the straps of her dress down and started rubbing her shoulders, working the tension from them. “Mm,” she sighed. “This I don’t mind.” I smiled and leaned in and nipped at her ear, moving a little lower on her back. “Lie down,” I whispered. As she shifted, I kept close, letting my body heat always be close enough for her to feel. We had noticed that I was always warmer than she was, though we never could tell - or care - why. She always took advantage to bask in the warmth I seemed to produce. I unzipped her dress and slid it down a touch, exposing her upper back. I undid the clasp of her bra and set into massaging her back, sliding over to straddle her thighs as I did. I began to alternate the gentle kneading of my hands with kisses, causing her to sigh with contentment. After a while, when I started having trouble finding places of tension, she looked back at me. “My turn,” she said. “If you say so,” I said, sliding off and watching as she slid her shoulder straps back up enough to keep her dress in place. “You’ve never shown a lot of interest in this sort of thing before.” “Oh, I’ve read up,” she said with a smirk. And when I felt her hands work the sides of my neck, I also felt gentle pressure start to knead the soles of my feet. I shivered as she kissed the nape of my neck and I felt more phantom hands working my back, thighs, and calves as her physical hands worked my shoulders. “Cheater,” I moaned. I couldn’t see her face from the way we were arranged, but I could tell she had stuck her tongue out at me again. Applejack and Rainbow DashI fidgeted as Rarity flitted about me, making minor adjustments to my clothes. “Rarity,” I said. “Ah don’t see how you figure ya need to gussy me up mor’n Ah already was.” I shifted again, the shoes on my feet a little higher than the heels I usually wore. That is the only downside to having the same size foot as the designer. “Ah already agreed t’wear this here dress tonight.” “Applejack, darling,” Rarity drawled around the pins she held in the corner of her mouth. “This is not just another simple dinner date. This is Valentine’s Day! I know the two of you missed it last year due to her plane getting grounded in Cloudsdale, so this will technically be your first Valentine’s date as a couple.” She pinned another section and waved her hand towards the changing room. “Now nip along and change so I can take it in a bit around the waist. I have to say, I do envy you and Dashie your muscle tone.” I glanced in the mirror as I undid the zip and slid out of the dress, kicking the heels off as I did. Helping Dash train in the off season and my regular work on the farm had kept me fit as a fiddle. But as I looked at myself in the mirror, I saw the faint lines of my abs peaking out and smiled slightly. Maybe a little fussing is worth it once in a while, I thought as I buttoned up my flannel shirt again, hiding what Dash liked referring to as my ‘Buff Bucking Bod’, a little heat spreading across my face and neck. I grabbed my jeans, shimmying into them before tucking my feet into the comfortable enclosure of my boots. I stepped outside the booth, tucking my shirt in and nabbing my hat off the hook I hung it on. Rarity glanced up, a slight frown ticking onto her face before she returned to the dress, her glasses sliding down her face slightly. “I must ask, Applejack,” she said. “What do you find in those pedestrian clothes?” She flicked a knot in one of her stitches. “Why not something more feminine?” “Because most of th’ stuff you wear would wear out faster’n grass through a goose,” I replied, adjusting my hat. “Ya need t’remember, Ah work a farm, and that’s rough on what y’usually work with. Denim, heavy cotton shirts, ’n boots get the job done.” She nodded. “I suppose that makes sense,” she ceded. “But you could still dress up a bit when you aren’t working the orchards, darling.” “That just ain’t mah style, Rarity,” I said. “Ah like comfort and functionality over fashion trends.” I stuck my hands in my back pockets. “How did Ah get talked into wearin’ that dress anyways? Ah just wanted to have you mend one of my shirts.” “I asked, naturally,” the fashionista said as she picked up the shirt in question. “Of course, saying that Rainbow had come by yesterday for a fitting didn’t hurt.” She smiled as she laid my shirt out and started looking over the tear along the seam. “Go ahead and enjoy the night, darling,” she said with a languid motion towards the dress. “I’ll have this done tomorrow afternoon.” “Got plans of your own, do ya?” I smiled. I had the satisfaction of seeing her smile and blush. Picking up the dress, I gave her a small hug. “Tell ‘Shy Ah said hello, would ya?” “Consarn it, Rainbow,” I said under my breath. “Tonight of all nights ya could be on time.” I glanced at the watch on my wrist, the face against the inside of my wrist. The timepiece was one of the few allowances I made towards jewelry besides the necklace that had been my ma’s. I reached up and felt the thin gold chain and felt the solid locket shift just below my collarbone. I fought the urge to pull it out and look at the pictures inside, pictures of Mom and Dad when they were just a little older than I am now. “She late again, Sis?” I turned and saw Apple Bloom pop open the fridge and pull out a bottle of water, still wearing her field hockey uniform, hair plastered to her head. “Seems t’be the usual,” I said, sitting down and crossing my legs. Thankfully, I had ‘forgotten’ to borrow the shoes Rarity had set aside for me. These may not be as fancy, but they matched the outfit and the block heel was much more reasonable. My sister drained the bottle and dumped it into the recycling bin. “Ya know she ain’t used to getting fixed up fancy. Ya only know how to do it cause ya spent a few months living in Manehattan with Aunt and Uncle Orange.” She smiled at me. “At least ya got a date for tonight. Ah’m going to spend the evening watching movies with Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle.” I smiled. “At least ya’ll get to dress down,” I said, adjusting the hem of my dress. “Ah’ve got to wear this ‘till Ah get home.” Apple Bloom smiled at me as she headed for the shower. “Ya look good, Sis,” she said as she nabbed a towel from the linen cupboard. “Ah promise not t’wait up for ya.” I laughed at the thought of my seventeen-year-old sister waiting up for me to get home. I heard the shower hiss to life about the same time I heard gravel crunching under tires in the driveway. I stood and grabbed the only dressy coat I had, a hip-length canvas peacoat and tucked my wallet and keys into its pockets. “Ya think Rarity would put pockets o’some sort into her dresses,” I said quietly as I stepped outside to see Rainbow’s car idling in the driveway. I walked over and slid into the passenger side, seeing the lean athlete leaning back in her seat, tugging at the hem of her dress. “How do we get roped into wearing Rarity’s stuff all the time?” she asked, sliding the gear shift into reverse and letting off the clutch, easing the sports car out of the driveway. “Ya got me, sugarcube,” I said, looking at her from out of the corner of my eye. Her hair was tamed and styled a little, and I think I caught hints of makeup. She had a pair of simple studs in her ears and the heavy strap of her watch on her right wrist. She pulled onto the highway and eased through the gears before reaching over and grabbing my hand in hers. I leaned back, and just enjoyed the ride. “So,” I drawled. “What took ya?” She colored a little. “I don’t wanna say,” she said. “Dash,” I said with a hint of warning. She had learned that if I used her last name she was toeing the line. She grinned sheepishly. “I was having trouble with my hair,” she admitted. “I really wanted tonight to be special and I had to look my most awesome for the raddest girl I’ve ever known.” I blushed a little. “Besides,” she continued. “We aren’t the type to usually dress up for anything. That’s more Rarity and Fluttershy’s thing.” I nodded in agreement. “They do seem more suited for th’ roles,” I said, rubbing my thumb against Rainbow’s. “But Ah think we can handle a few hours gussied up.” “I sure hope so,” she said, taking her hand back for a moment to downshift. “Cause I got us reservations at the new Italian place in Downtown. They’ve been booked solid for weeks.” I raised an eyebrow at her. “Didn’t know ya had connections, Rainbow,” I joked. “Do we owe anyone a ‘favor’ in return?” She laughed. “No, nothing like that,” she said. “Turns out that Prism’s brother is the owner. We’ve got a special table set up just for us.” “Remind me to put him on the Christmas card list,” I said as we pulled into the restaurant’s parking lot. “Sure thing,” she said, slipping out of the car and hopping around to open the door for me. “We’re actually a little early.” “That’s a surprise,” I teased, turning up the collar of my jacket against a sudden breeze. She shivered. “Let’s just get inside, huh?” she said, hunching slightly in her windbreaker. “This isn’t exactly the warmest getup I’ve ever worn.” When we got inside and she unzipped her coat, I had to stare for a moment. The dress she had on clung to her body in a way that only enhanced her athletic frame, the hemline hitting just below the knees and it’s sleeveless style let her lean and toned arms show to the world. She caught me looking and smiled. “Like what you see?” she whispered as we were led back to a small booth near the kitchen. “Depends,” I said as I slipped my coat off, showing the dress Rarity had made for me, tugging slightly at the half-sleeves she had put on it, a small apple embroidered on each cuff. The neckline was a little lower than I would have liked, but seeing the look of amazement on Rainbow’s face made it worthwhile. “Ya like what you see?” “Always,” she said, a warm smile replacing her amazement. We sat under the stars in one of the fields on the farm, staring up as the meteor shower continued to flare. Despite being the taller of the two of us, I was cuddled into Rainbow’s side under the blanket she had stashed in the car. “So I gotta ask,” she said after a while. “Was all this worth it? The dressing up, I mean.” I looked up at her. “Well, let’s see,” I said. “Ah got an excellent dinner at a fancy restaurant with a very attractive lady, and then was shown a sky full o’shootin’ stars.” I made a show of thinking. “Ah think it was worth it.” I sat up and leaned in close to her, whispering what had become something of a catchphrase for us just before I kissed her. “Always.” Rarity and FluttershyI rushed about, feeding all the animals in a hurry before running up the stairs to the small apartment over the shelter. “Oh dear, I’m running so late,” I murmured, upset that I had lost track of time jotting down ideas for a new song. We didn’t get together all that often anymore, but Sunset, Twilight, Pinkie, AJ and I would sometimes go and do acoustic sets at a local coffee house. Next week we were supposed to have everyone here and play a benefit for the shelter. But tonight was a special night. I stripped off my spotted and stained tank top as I hopped into my bathroom and cranked the shower into life, disrobing as quickly as possible and leaping in. So much to do, I thought as I lathered up my hair, working the shampoo through my long tresses. I hope I don’t spoil Rarity’s plans. I think I set a record time for washing and shaving. I wrapped a towel around me as I stepped out and wiped a hand across the mirror, seeing my reflection in the slightly fogged glass. I was a little older but looked little different than I did in high school. Except maybe the timidity I once had in my eyes was gone, and I stood a little straighter, no longer hoping to hide behind my hair or disguise my height. I was even with Sunset and we were only slightly shorter than AJ. I patted my hair as dry as it would get with a towel and brushed it out gently, wincing at the few snags I hit. I threw it up in a clip to keep it out of the way while I got dressed and did my makeup. I slid a slip on before pulling the long dress Rarity had given me for my birthday last month and admired it for a moment. Its full skirt had been pleated in such a way that it would swirl slightly while I walked, and if I spun it would flare out to reveal it’s hidden pointed hem. Rarity had said it fit with my almost sylvan way of life. I just liked how pretty it looked and made me feel. The light green made me think of grass and trees. I did a quick makeup work, keeping it to some eyeshadow and blush. Then I took my hair down and glanced at the clock. I winced at the time. I had hoped to have more time, but I was running out. I pulled my hair into a high tail and pulled it into six sections, using a small elastic at the end of each to hold them separate. I then took my curling iron and curled each section, taking care not to let the iron to touch the elastic. When I pulled the hair ties out and gave my hair a quick ruffle, it fell in gentle waves around my shoulders. It wasn’t the most elaborate look I could do, but it would work in a pinch. Slipping on a pair of flats and chunky bracelet, I pulled on my peacoat and grabbed my purse, slipping out the door and into the late afternoon sun. “Just a moment, dear,” I hear Rarity call from upstairs. “I’m afraid I’m running a trifle late today.” I breathed a sigh of relief. I had made it to Manehattan with a few minutes to spare for the time we had agreed to meet and had a grace period I didn’t even know about. I sat on one of Rarity’s couches, crossing my legs and looking at the loft. The warehouse had been converted into three large studio lofts, the other two vacant at the moment. Rarity’s lower floor was dominated by her workspace, leaving a small space for entertaining and a kitchen. She had attempted to separate the work and living areas by setting up folding dividers, but her organized chaos tended to drift across the border more often than not. I stood when I heard heels clicking on the metal stairs of the spiral staircase. Rarity soon appeared, a gorgeous white dress with black accents paired with a pair of black ankle boots sheathing her slight form. She was still fitting earrings to her left ear, alternating a small gold hoop in the back with the black titanium dangles I had gotten her for Christmas in the forefront. She smiled as she saw me, reaching out and pulling me into an embrace. “Hello, dear heart,” she whispered into my ear and I melted a little. “Are you ready for dinner?” “I’m in no rush,” I said softly. “No need for this night to end quickly.” She dazzled me with a smile and took my arm in hers. “Then by all means,” she drawled. “We’ll take the scenic route.” The scenic route turned out to be the footpath through the botanical gardens near the university. It was still green and vibrant in most spots, annuals and Evergreen trees forming large places of shade even in winter. Rarity stopped near a southern magnolia tree, smiling and turning to me. “Close your eyes, darling,” she said. I was a little confused, but I trusted her. As soon as my eyes were shut, I felt her take my hands. “Now follow me, and don’t worry,” she said. “I won’t let you fall.” A few moments later, she stepped behind me and placed her hands on my shoulders. “Ok, Fluttershy,” she whispered. “You can open them.” I blinked my eyes open and saw a large sheet spread out across the ground under one of the larger magnolia trees, a basket sitting in the center with a bottle of sparkling cider and two glasses next to it. I turned to my love, surprised. “I thought that we spent enough time in restaurants,” she said. “And I know you don’t especially care for crowds that much, so I thought this would be a little more ‘us’, a little more personal.” She smiled. “Besides, there’s supposed to a meteor storm tonight, and this is a great place to view them from.” We started to unpack the basket, wonderful vegetarian dishes set within. Out of all our friends, Rarity and I understood Sunset’s diet preference and shared it more often than not. Rarity laid out a plate of cucumber sandwiches and a bowl of a spinach and romaine salad. A small bowl of berries and nuts were set out as well. “And the centerpiece of the whole affair,” Rarity said with a mysterious air, just before drawing out a small mp3 player and a pair of speakers. She hit a button and the soft sounds of nature started to filter through, birdsong and the sound of wind in the trees. I smiled, a tear sneaking by to creep down my face. “This is so nice, Rarity,” I whispered. She waved a well-manicured hand. “After all the effort you went through last year to get us tickets to the Countess Coloratura and Sapphire Shores concert? I thought this was the least I could do, set up a dinner in the midst of your own element.” I giggled. “I keep telling you, I’m not an elf, dear.” Rarity smiled even broader. “I agree. You’re more like a sylph; mysterious, beautiful, and next to impossible to catch.” She eyed me over a cucumber sandwich. “Makes me wonder how lucky I truly am.” “Oh, Rarity,” I said. “I’m the lucky one.” “Tell you what, darling,” she purred as she leaned forwards. “How about we just accept that we’re both lucky?” She kissed me, and the stars themselves blazed brighter. I woke up late that night, warm arms wrapped around me. I smiled as I heard her soft breathing and looked up at her sleeping face. I hoisted myself up slightly and kissed her lightly on the lips. She murmured some nonsense and smiled. “I love you, Rarity Belle,” I whispered before laying back down and falling asleep in the arms that gave me the comfort and support I had dreamed of for years. Octavia and Vinyl ScratchI fidgeted as the dryer rumbled gently in the background. I hated sitting still, it let too much rise up into my thoughts. My computer was still mixing down the latest track I had written, and I didn’t want to try and work on anything while precious processor power was being sucked up by my music editor program. It was probably time to start thinking about updating to a newer model, but first I had to have the cash to do it. “Vinyl, are you going to be ready in time?” I hear Octavia call up, her refined voice making me smile. Back when I had transferred to CHS, I hadn’t been well received. I was too gawky, too tall, and too quiet, but Octavia had befriended me without a second thought. I ran my hand through my hair, leaning over the railing to see her standing down in the foyer, setting her cello to the side. I had been ecstatic when she told me she had made the local Philharmonic, another step towards her dream. She had immediately said that we were going out to celebrate, despite my preference to stay in. I caught her eye and signed down Waiting on pants. She nodded and came up to join me. She saw the mixing screen on my laptop and sat down next to me. “A new mix for the club?” I nodded, raising my hands to sign to her the title when she reached over and grabbed them, pushing them back into my lap. “It’s just us, Vi,” she said. “You don’t need to hide from me.” I glanced away, but she put a hand on my cheek and brought me around to face her again. I saw the love and understanding in her eyes. I sighed. “It’s a remix of my intro music,” I said, my voice scratchy and deeper than I'd like. “I heard a really good beat the other day at the record store and I got the idea for it.” She leaned into me, slipping an arm across my stomach. “Now was that so hard, Vi?” she asked. “I don’t understand why you won’t relax even when it’s just you and me.” “You remember what my Freshman year was like, Tavi,” I said. “Couldn’t even use the washroom in peace. The notes slipped in my locker, how hard it was to get people to call me the right name.” I sighed again. “It got easier as my meds started to make me look more like I should have, but that doesn’t erase the memories.” “And you’re still embarrassed about your voice,” she finished for me. I nodded. “It’s one thing I can’t change about me easily. So I try not to speak when I don’t have to.” “It’s not that bad, Vi,” she said, reaching up to run her hand along my cheek. “It’s just a little rough. No one would have a problem with it. It’s certainly no worse than Rainbow’s voice.” I searched her eyes for a hint of her just trying to ease my discomfort but saw none. She held up her hand and I saw her phone in it, the voice recorder activated. I frowned as she hit playback, and I heard the last five minutes of conversation again. I heard her voice and another young woman, voice a little rough but somewhere in an alto range. “See?” she asked. I felt some tears well up behind my eyes. Are you ok? she signed, seeing the emotion rise. I held up a single hand, thumb, index, and pinkie extended. She smiled and leaned up to peck me on the lips. “I love you too, Vi,” she said as a buzzing sound came from further back in the loft. “And I believe those are your trousers,” she said, rising and padding to the bedroom, giving an extra sway to her hip as she went. “Do try and get ready quickly,” she said as she paused at the doorframe. “Honestly, you take more time than I do, silly girl.” I grinned and pulled my good slacks from the dryer, heading to the smaller bathroom to hop in the shower. My wife was waiting, after all. I looked at myself in the mirror, fingers adding just a bit more tousle to my hair. I was in a pair of flared boot cut slacks and a long tunic. My glasses sat on the counter next to my headphones and I heard the door to the closest slide closed. Tavi apparently had chosen her shoes and was finishing up her preparations. I slipped my glasses and headphones on and went to slide my own shoes on. I was pulling on a shin length cardigan when Octavia came out from the bathroom, her hair up in an elaborate wrap and a warm heater gray sweater dress on with a blanket scarf wrapped around her shoulders. She was wearing the boots that she knew I loved, their soft suede texture and the short stacked heel pushed aside the image of the serious musician and instilled an image of the woman I loved. “I see we tied this time,” she said as she finished sliding a handful of bracelets onto one arm. I smiled, pushing my glasses up the bridge of my nose. “I’m always ready for you,” I said as I signed out slowpoke. She mock glowered at me and signed back screwball. I giggled and grabbed the keys to the car. “I’m driving,” I said. “Of course you are,” Tavi said, grabbing my headphones and dropping them on the couch. “But those are staying here tonight.” She leaned in close. “I’m going to make sure you enjoy every minute, my dear. I only want my wife to be happy.” As we headed to the car, I leaned in and whispered in her ear. “Wub you, Tavi.” “Wubs to you too, Vi,” she said. “When we get back, you’ll have to play your new track for me.” “You’ve heard it before,” I frowned slightly. “I don’t care,” she said. “Play it again.” Author's Note The first of what I hope to be several unconventional relationships in my writing. Vinyl and Octavia do fit well together, and I think a reason we never hear Vinyl speak is not because she is deaf as we see so many times, but something more personal. I did find one piece of art that put her as blind and that was very interesting to see, though I've lost the link. I almost made her mute due to a botched tonsillectomy, but then wondered what if she was ashamed of her voice, much like I am my own. That brought Vinyl over to my side of the brain, where identity is difficult to maintain and solid friends are worth more than all the bits in Equestria. While our world has a way to go about acceptance, Equestria has surely moved past that. Ignoring some foalish teasing, ponies, in general, are very accepting of differences. Princess Luna and Princess Twilight SparkleAuthor's Note This ship is part of the Equestria 616 timeline. Princess Luna and Princess Twilight Sparkle I collapsed as soon as the doors closed behind the last guest, exhausted. “Will these balls ever get less boring?” I asked to the air. I felt a hoof rub me between my wings. “I feel your fatigue as well, Twilight,” Luna said. “But matters of state do tend to take priority over comfort.” I looked up at the dark Alicorn. “I know, I know,” I said, rising. “But you would think that they would give us time to mingle and maybe sit down.” Luna chuckled, moving over and giving me a nuzzle. “Believe me, I have asked my sister many times the same question.” She looked over as staff members started to do light cleaning and clearing away the leftover food. “Maybe we should move on to a more suitable locale?” she said, her smile warming my heart. “What did you have in mind?” I asked, smiling back. “This is amazing!” I cried as I looked around the landscape. It may have been a little barren, but the view was amazing. “I am glad that you find the view pleasing,” Luna said, looking around. “Even after so many years, the sight of this far-reaching night lifts my spirits up.” I looked up at the sky, more stars than I had ever seen from my balcony on my castle or my room at the palace. I couldn’t even begin to recognize them all. I turned to take in the entirety of the sky and stopped as a new site rose into view. The planet turned beneath me, a glowing blue and green gem with fluffy white streaks slowly drifting across its surface. “Is that…” “Yes,” Luna said, coming up and draping a wing across me. “And Equestria is below us as we speak.” She pointed a hoof at the planet. “And that is Ponyville, nestled in the valley by that mountain range.” I stared at my home, seeing the gleam of my castle. “This is beautiful, Luna,” I said as I nuzzled her neck. “Thank you for showing it to me.” “For a thousand years, these views served to taunt me as I sat imprisoned here,” she said, looking down for a moment. “After you freed me, I was having difficulty looking at the moon as I raised it, and I hid my gaze from the domain that was to be mine.” She turned her head up to face me. “But now I gaze at the sky and smile fondly at the fact that I have friends that enjoy the view that I reveal each day.” She returned my nuzzle and sat to watch the planet spin beneath us. “Do you know what today is?” I asked. “I have difficulty keeping track of days,” she said, rubbing the back of her neck, her mane shimmering in the starlight. “It is a consequence of splitting the day in half.” I giggled and leaned into her. “Once the sun rises, it’s Hearts and Hooves Day,” I said. “And I can’t think of anything more perfect than sharing this view with my special somepony.” Luna gazed down at me, but not as much as she once had. The years between our saving her and today had seen me grow a few inches, starting to resemble Cadence in frame. Rarity had been excited about being able to design new gowns for me. A thin ring of brilliance started to show around the edge of the planet. “Then I should probably complete this properly,” Luna said, kissing me just as the sun rose fully. I woke up in my bed, the tingle of Luna’s kiss still on my lips. I smiled and trotted down the hall to the tower that housed the Tower of Duty. Just as I approached the door, Luna came through, looking sleepy. She perked up a bit when she saw me, and trotted over, giving me a dignified nuzzle. “Happy Hearts and Hooves Day,” she whispered into my ear. I pushed my head up under her chin, turning into her slightly, aligning my body with hers. “That was beautiful, Lulu,” I whispered. “Thanks for sharing it with me.” “You are most welcome, Twily,” she whispered in return. “And as much as I would like to spend this day with you, I regret I must retire for a short rest.” I grinned. “I am feeling a little tired,” I said, yawning. She glanced at me, a small smile crossing her face. “You do seem fatigued,” she said. “Perhaps you should return to bed.” I awoke after a short while, finding Luna’s wing draped across me. The dream I had shared with her was still fresh and sharp in my mind. I leaned over and kissed her gently, settling back into the bed. Princess Luna stirred, turning slightly as a smile spread across her face. “Of course you can have more scones, Tia,” she tittered. “I have plenty of jam for them.” I giggled as I enjoyed her warmth. “Save one for me, Celestia,” I said as I started to doze again. Starlight Glimmer and TrixieI sat at the desk, tapping my hoof as I read the same passage for the fifth time. I kept getting distracted by the ponies trotting by the window, walking close to each other or stopping to nuzzle and kiss. I growled and slammed the book closed. I hated this day. Every year I couldn’t help but get grumpy about this stupid holiday. Even back at the village I had founded, they had celebrated - albeit covertly - Hearts and Hooves Day. I lifted the book and turned to head to the library. As I trotted down the hallway, I bumped into Spike as he loped out of a room. “Sorry, Starlight,” he said as he reached out to steady himself. “Are you ok?” I nodded, still a little touchy because of the day. “Where are you off to in such a hurry?” He reached down and picked up a package. “I’m going over to Rarity’s to give her this for Hearts and Hooves Day. I’ve been aging this ice sapphire for weeks and it’s perfectly ripe.” I could tell he was salivating at the thought of a ripe ice sapphire. I smiled ruefully. “Make sure it makes it to her, loverboy,” I teased before trudging along the hallway again. “Are you sure you’re ok?” he asked as he rushed up to trot alongside me. “You seem kind of upset.” “I don't want to talk about it,” I said as I pushed the doors to the library open. Replacing the book from where I got it from I started scanning the shelves, looking for anything to take my mind off the day. “Ok,” the dragon said slowly. “If you’re sure about it. I’ll see you later!” I waved distractedly, eyes still roving the spines of the books. I sighed after a few minutes. Nothing jumped out at me, nothing even hobbled at me. I took a seat next to one of the desks in the library, glancing at the scrawled notes made by either myself or Twilight while we were researching glamor spells and the malfunctions of the mirror. I sighed. Those were exciting days, and the trip through the mirror had been fascinating beyond anything I could imagine. I hadn’t exactly enjoyed trying to pick things up with those…what were they called? Fingers? Being without magic had been anxiety-inducing, but the performance by the other world's version of my friends’ band was invigorating, as had watching them all walk across the stage and accepting their degrees. I glanced at the mirror, wondering for a second about heading across. Then I noticed the book was missing, keeping the portal from allowing a pony to cross. I got up and walked around, looking for the journal. I had finished a circuit of the room when Twilight came in, the journal hovering behind her along with two more books. “Hi Starlight!” she said as she set the journal in the bracket over the mirror. “Happy Hearts and Hooves Day.” “Yeah, yeah,” I grumbled. “What have you got there?” “While the journal Sunset and I contact each other with contain a Mobius spell for the pages, their Rarity and Rainbow Dash are moving away soon. I made up a pair of journals for each of them to keep in touch with each other.” I glanced at the floating books, with Rainbow Dash’s and Rarity’s cutie marks on them. “Twilight?” “Hm?” “Didn’t they have little devices that could do that for them?” She blushed. “Oh, right,” she whispered. Perking up a bit, she smiled at me. “Well, let’s consider it a graduation gift!” She rubbed her hoof across her chin. “But what to get Sunset and Sunshine?” I smiled as an idea popped into my head. I suggested it and Twilight smiled. “That sounds perfect!” I was sitting on a hill outside Ponyville, watching the sun make its way towards the horizon. I shivered a bit as a chill breeze blew in, mussing my mane and raising goosebumps. “At least the day’s almost over,” a voice said as a scarf draped itself over me, surrounded by a familiar magic aura. I turned and smiled at my best friend, Beatrix Lulamoon, as she sat down next to me, her cloak wrapped around her. “It’s such a stupid holiday,” she said as she tugged the collar of her cloak tighter around her neck. “I don’t see what anypony sees in getting all excited about what’s basically another day.” “I can sort of understand it,” I said. “It’s not so much the day, but somepony you spend it with.” I smiled wistfully into the distance. “All the day does is remind you who’s important to you.” Trixie gazed out in the distance. “I guess you’re right,” she said. “But what about those of us that don’t have a special somepony to spend the day with? That just makes the day miserable.” I saw her glance at me out of the corner of my eye. I thought back to all the shows we had done over the last few years. I also remembered the strange looks I had seen her give me when she thought I wasn’t looking. Those kept me up at night sometimes, trying to figure out just how I felt. “Who said you don’t?” I said softly. She looked at me with a questioning look. I turned to her. “I may not know exactly how you feel or how I do, but you are special to me.” I glanced down. “You’re the first friend I made since I came here that wasn't part of Twilight's entourage. That makes you special in my book.” Trixie blinked, a tear in her eye. “Really?” I smiled and moved over to hug her. “Of course,” I said. I stood, adjusting the scarf around my neck and withers. “What do you say to two good friends going and grabbing something to eat?” She stood as well. “The Great and Powerful Trixie does not need such things,” she said in her stage voice. Smiling, she looked at me. “Plain old Beatrix, though, would love to,” she said in her softer and gentle normal voice. As we trotted back towards town, Trixie stopped and looked at me. “Starlight,” she said quietly. “You know I find you kind of cute, and I'm thankful for the help on the show and being my friend. But I’m not sure how these things work. I’ve been on my own a lot, after all.” I looked at her and smiled. “Doesn’t mean you have to be all the time.” I looked back at the sunset. “You know how I used to be before Twilight went to the village I set up.” I blinked back a tear. “But do you know how I’m getting by it?” She shook her head. “One day at a time, Trixie,” I said. “One day at a time,” she whispered, nodding. “That works for me.” Author's Note I don't plan on them becoming a couple insofar as a sexual relationship. There are couples in this world that are together just because they enjoy each other's company and emotional support. There can be physical attraction between them without them ever wanting anything more. I hope that doesn't bring out the pitchforks and torches, though.
Sunset Shimmer and Twilight SparkleI set the candles on the table, glancing over at the kitchen. “How’s dinner coming?” I asked. Twilight leaned around the door to the kitchen, her hair slightly mussed. “It’ll be out in a few minutes,” she said, wiping her brow. “It’s just got to reduce down a bit more.” I nodded and grabbed a pair of glasses off the countertop and poured some nice cider in them. I would have liked to have wine on hand but I’m still a minor according to my id. Applejack, however, had some of the finest cider I’ve ever tasted and it would work out just as well. I heard some plates clinking, almost covering up the sound of Twilight humming happily. I couldn’t see her from where I was without going into the kitchen proper, and I had been expressly forbidden to do so tonight. Everything was set to be a surprise. She had even kept a tight hold on her end of the bond, keeping anything more than excitement out of my perception. I went to finish getting ready, pinning my hair back with my mother’s comb and a bobby pin. I wasn’t one to preen, but I did like putting in an effort for Twilight, just as she did the same. Tonight I had put on a green dress with some red cuffs and hems. Since we were in our apartment, I stayed barefoot. I’m not sure why she wanted to stay in tonight instead of going out for Valentine’s Day. Sure, it was our first one since the wedding, but we’ve gone out plenty of times before. I came back to find her setting plates on the table. I lit the candles and looked at my love, who had dressed up in a long light blue dress and had done her hair up in a butterfly clip, her long tresses falling down to bounce around her face and shoulders. She leaned over and gave me a peck on the cheek before sitting down. “Happy Valentine’s Day, Sunset,” she said. I sat and smiled. “Happy Valentine’s Day,” I replied, looking at my plate. A thick creamy dish sat before me. I grabbed up a bit with my fork and took a bite, tasting the pasta and potatoes. “This is pretty good, Twi,” I said, swallowing the mouthful. “Some sort of stroganoff?” She nodded, chewing on a bite herself before washing it down with a sip of cider. “I tried using vegan meat substitutes to help make the roux. It’s nice being able to try new recipe ideas.” I raised an eyebrow. “After a handful of experimental test runs, I‘m sure,” I smirked before taking a sip of cider myself. She blushed behind her glass, her glasses sliding down slightly as she did. “Only once or twice,” she whispered. We ate a few more bites before I set my fork down on my plate, looking across the table at her, a warm smile on my face. “So,” I said without preamble. “Why did you insist on eating in tonight? You can’t be embarrassed, it’s been a few years and we’ve eaten out plenty of times by ourselves. What gives?” She shifted in her seat slightly, but not in nervousness. Her smile never flickered and I saw none of the uneasiness she used to show. “This is our first Valentine’s Day as a married couple,” she said simply. “I just wanted to spend it with just you and me.” I smiled at that and reached over to hold her hand. “That is probably the sweetest, most sappy thing you’ve ever said, Twilight,” I said. She ran her thumb across my knuckles, the gold of her ring glinting slightly. “I’m glad you think so,” she said, her cheeks coloring slightly. “Which is another reason why I wanted to have this in private,” she said, glancing away, hints of her old nervousness appearing again. “Oh?” “Yeah,” she said, adjusting her glasses. “I was wondering lately. I wanted to know…” she trailed off into a voice softer than Fluttershy had managed at times. “I didn’t quite catch that, Twilight honey.” She took a deep breath and looked at me. “Do you want kids?” “I’ve always thought about it,” I said, getting up and moving over to kiss her. “But things are going to be a bit more complicated for us, I’m afraid.” I looked into her eyes. “Do you want kids?” She twisted a lock of hair in her fingers. “Someday,” she said. “And I know it wouldn’t be as simple as most couples, but there are scientific studies coming out that suggest that we can have children that share both our genetic material.” She smiled. “Plus we have a little advantage that most couples don’t.” She reached up and cupped my cheek. I smirked. “We’ll have to get in touch with Princess Cadence and see what she can tell us.” I leaned down and kissed her again. “But for now, what else do you have planned for the rest of the night?” She leaned back, smiling. “Well first things first, we finish this dinner that your amazing wife prepared,” she said, pointing at my chair. I sat back down, laughing. “And then?” “You’ll just have to wait and see,” she said with a mischievous smirk. I rolled my eyes in return. “You’ve been spending too much time with Rainbow and Pinkie,” I said before sipping my cider again. “You’re getting snarky.” She stuck her tongue out at me as she rose and took her plate to the kitchen. I finished the last bite of my serving and followed suit. I felt her arms slide around my waist as I loaded the dishwasher, her head pressing against my back. I stood and grasped her hands with my own. “Do you ever worry it’s just a dream?” she whispered. “That one day you’ll wake up and find out it was all just a fantasy?” I turned in her arms, taking her by the waist, looking into her eyes. “If so, then I hope it’s your dream,” I said, leaning forward and resting my head on her forehead. “Why mine?” she protested. Because I don’t want to exist in a world without you, Sunshine, I sent through our bond, the love and contentment that followed it building off Twilight’s love. She laughed, a tear or two leaking out. Meanie, she thought back. Make me be the dreamer. I stood up straight and reached behind me, hitting the switch for the dishwasher, starting it up. “I’m about to derail your plans, Twilight,” I said, pulling her along to the bedroom. “I’m fairly sure we were going to wind up in here eventually, Sunny,” she deadpanned. “We both do have to sleep eventually.” I smirked and eased her down onto the bed and got behind her, sliding the straps of her dress down and started rubbing her shoulders, working the tension from them. “Mm,” she sighed. “This I don’t mind.” I smiled and leaned in and nipped at her ear, moving a little lower on her back. “Lie down,” I whispered. As she shifted, I kept close, letting my body heat always be close enough for her to feel. We had noticed that I was always warmer than she was, though we never could tell - or care - why. She always took advantage to bask in the warmth I seemed to produce. I unzipped her dress and slid it down a touch, exposing her upper back. I undid the clasp of her bra and set into massaging her back, sliding over to straddle her thighs as I did. I began to alternate the gentle kneading of my hands with kisses, causing her to sigh with contentment. After a while, when I started having trouble finding places of tension, she looked back at me. “My turn,” she said. “If you say so,” I said, sliding off and watching as she slid her shoulder straps back up enough to keep her dress in place. “You’ve never shown a lot of interest in this sort of thing before.” “Oh, I’ve read up,” she said with a smirk. And when I felt her hands work the sides of my neck, I also felt gentle pressure start to knead the soles of my feet. I shivered as she kissed the nape of my neck and I felt more phantom hands working my back, thighs, and calves as her physical hands worked my shoulders. “Cheater,” I moaned. I couldn’t see her face from the way we were arranged, but I could tell she had stuck her tongue out at me again.
Applejack and Rainbow DashI fidgeted as Rarity flitted about me, making minor adjustments to my clothes. “Rarity,” I said. “Ah don’t see how you figure ya need to gussy me up mor’n Ah already was.” I shifted again, the shoes on my feet a little higher than the heels I usually wore. That is the only downside to having the same size foot as the designer. “Ah already agreed t’wear this here dress tonight.” “Applejack, darling,” Rarity drawled around the pins she held in the corner of her mouth. “This is not just another simple dinner date. This is Valentine’s Day! I know the two of you missed it last year due to her plane getting grounded in Cloudsdale, so this will technically be your first Valentine’s date as a couple.” She pinned another section and waved her hand towards the changing room. “Now nip along and change so I can take it in a bit around the waist. I have to say, I do envy you and Dashie your muscle tone.” I glanced in the mirror as I undid the zip and slid out of the dress, kicking the heels off as I did. Helping Dash train in the off season and my regular work on the farm had kept me fit as a fiddle. But as I looked at myself in the mirror, I saw the faint lines of my abs peaking out and smiled slightly. Maybe a little fussing is worth it once in a while, I thought as I buttoned up my flannel shirt again, hiding what Dash liked referring to as my ‘Buff Bucking Bod’, a little heat spreading across my face and neck. I grabbed my jeans, shimmying into them before tucking my feet into the comfortable enclosure of my boots. I stepped outside the booth, tucking my shirt in and nabbing my hat off the hook I hung it on. Rarity glanced up, a slight frown ticking onto her face before she returned to the dress, her glasses sliding down her face slightly. “I must ask, Applejack,” she said. “What do you find in those pedestrian clothes?” She flicked a knot in one of her stitches. “Why not something more feminine?” “Because most of th’ stuff you wear would wear out faster’n grass through a goose,” I replied, adjusting my hat. “Ya need t’remember, Ah work a farm, and that’s rough on what y’usually work with. Denim, heavy cotton shirts, ’n boots get the job done.” She nodded. “I suppose that makes sense,” she ceded. “But you could still dress up a bit when you aren’t working the orchards, darling.” “That just ain’t mah style, Rarity,” I said. “Ah like comfort and functionality over fashion trends.” I stuck my hands in my back pockets. “How did Ah get talked into wearin’ that dress anyways? Ah just wanted to have you mend one of my shirts.” “I asked, naturally,” the fashionista said as she picked up the shirt in question. “Of course, saying that Rainbow had come by yesterday for a fitting didn’t hurt.” She smiled as she laid my shirt out and started looking over the tear along the seam. “Go ahead and enjoy the night, darling,” she said with a languid motion towards the dress. “I’ll have this done tomorrow afternoon.” “Got plans of your own, do ya?” I smiled. I had the satisfaction of seeing her smile and blush. Picking up the dress, I gave her a small hug. “Tell ‘Shy Ah said hello, would ya?” “Consarn it, Rainbow,” I said under my breath. “Tonight of all nights ya could be on time.” I glanced at the watch on my wrist, the face against the inside of my wrist. The timepiece was one of the few allowances I made towards jewelry besides the necklace that had been my ma’s. I reached up and felt the thin gold chain and felt the solid locket shift just below my collarbone. I fought the urge to pull it out and look at the pictures inside, pictures of Mom and Dad when they were just a little older than I am now. “She late again, Sis?” I turned and saw Apple Bloom pop open the fridge and pull out a bottle of water, still wearing her field hockey uniform, hair plastered to her head. “Seems t’be the usual,” I said, sitting down and crossing my legs. Thankfully, I had ‘forgotten’ to borrow the shoes Rarity had set aside for me. These may not be as fancy, but they matched the outfit and the block heel was much more reasonable. My sister drained the bottle and dumped it into the recycling bin. “Ya know she ain’t used to getting fixed up fancy. Ya only know how to do it cause ya spent a few months living in Manehattan with Aunt and Uncle Orange.” She smiled at me. “At least ya got a date for tonight. Ah’m going to spend the evening watching movies with Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle.” I smiled. “At least ya’ll get to dress down,” I said, adjusting the hem of my dress. “Ah’ve got to wear this ‘till Ah get home.” Apple Bloom smiled at me as she headed for the shower. “Ya look good, Sis,” she said as she nabbed a towel from the linen cupboard. “Ah promise not t’wait up for ya.” I laughed at the thought of my seventeen-year-old sister waiting up for me to get home. I heard the shower hiss to life about the same time I heard gravel crunching under tires in the driveway. I stood and grabbed the only dressy coat I had, a hip-length canvas peacoat and tucked my wallet and keys into its pockets. “Ya think Rarity would put pockets o’some sort into her dresses,” I said quietly as I stepped outside to see Rainbow’s car idling in the driveway. I walked over and slid into the passenger side, seeing the lean athlete leaning back in her seat, tugging at the hem of her dress. “How do we get roped into wearing Rarity’s stuff all the time?” she asked, sliding the gear shift into reverse and letting off the clutch, easing the sports car out of the driveway. “Ya got me, sugarcube,” I said, looking at her from out of the corner of my eye. Her hair was tamed and styled a little, and I think I caught hints of makeup. She had a pair of simple studs in her ears and the heavy strap of her watch on her right wrist. She pulled onto the highway and eased through the gears before reaching over and grabbing my hand in hers. I leaned back, and just enjoyed the ride. “So,” I drawled. “What took ya?” She colored a little. “I don’t wanna say,” she said. “Dash,” I said with a hint of warning. She had learned that if I used her last name she was toeing the line. She grinned sheepishly. “I was having trouble with my hair,” she admitted. “I really wanted tonight to be special and I had to look my most awesome for the raddest girl I’ve ever known.” I blushed a little. “Besides,” she continued. “We aren’t the type to usually dress up for anything. That’s more Rarity and Fluttershy’s thing.” I nodded in agreement. “They do seem more suited for th’ roles,” I said, rubbing my thumb against Rainbow’s. “But Ah think we can handle a few hours gussied up.” “I sure hope so,” she said, taking her hand back for a moment to downshift. “Cause I got us reservations at the new Italian place in Downtown. They’ve been booked solid for weeks.” I raised an eyebrow at her. “Didn’t know ya had connections, Rainbow,” I joked. “Do we owe anyone a ‘favor’ in return?” She laughed. “No, nothing like that,” she said. “Turns out that Prism’s brother is the owner. We’ve got a special table set up just for us.” “Remind me to put him on the Christmas card list,” I said as we pulled into the restaurant’s parking lot. “Sure thing,” she said, slipping out of the car and hopping around to open the door for me. “We’re actually a little early.” “That’s a surprise,” I teased, turning up the collar of my jacket against a sudden breeze. She shivered. “Let’s just get inside, huh?” she said, hunching slightly in her windbreaker. “This isn’t exactly the warmest getup I’ve ever worn.” When we got inside and she unzipped her coat, I had to stare for a moment. The dress she had on clung to her body in a way that only enhanced her athletic frame, the hemline hitting just below the knees and it’s sleeveless style let her lean and toned arms show to the world. She caught me looking and smiled. “Like what you see?” she whispered as we were led back to a small booth near the kitchen. “Depends,” I said as I slipped my coat off, showing the dress Rarity had made for me, tugging slightly at the half-sleeves she had put on it, a small apple embroidered on each cuff. The neckline was a little lower than I would have liked, but seeing the look of amazement on Rainbow’s face made it worthwhile. “Ya like what you see?” “Always,” she said, a warm smile replacing her amazement. We sat under the stars in one of the fields on the farm, staring up as the meteor shower continued to flare. Despite being the taller of the two of us, I was cuddled into Rainbow’s side under the blanket she had stashed in the car. “So I gotta ask,” she said after a while. “Was all this worth it? The dressing up, I mean.” I looked up at her. “Well, let’s see,” I said. “Ah got an excellent dinner at a fancy restaurant with a very attractive lady, and then was shown a sky full o’shootin’ stars.” I made a show of thinking. “Ah think it was worth it.” I sat up and leaned in close to her, whispering what had become something of a catchphrase for us just before I kissed her. “Always.”
Rarity and FluttershyI rushed about, feeding all the animals in a hurry before running up the stairs to the small apartment over the shelter. “Oh dear, I’m running so late,” I murmured, upset that I had lost track of time jotting down ideas for a new song. We didn’t get together all that often anymore, but Sunset, Twilight, Pinkie, AJ and I would sometimes go and do acoustic sets at a local coffee house. Next week we were supposed to have everyone here and play a benefit for the shelter. But tonight was a special night. I stripped off my spotted and stained tank top as I hopped into my bathroom and cranked the shower into life, disrobing as quickly as possible and leaping in. So much to do, I thought as I lathered up my hair, working the shampoo through my long tresses. I hope I don’t spoil Rarity’s plans. I think I set a record time for washing and shaving. I wrapped a towel around me as I stepped out and wiped a hand across the mirror, seeing my reflection in the slightly fogged glass. I was a little older but looked little different than I did in high school. Except maybe the timidity I once had in my eyes was gone, and I stood a little straighter, no longer hoping to hide behind my hair or disguise my height. I was even with Sunset and we were only slightly shorter than AJ. I patted my hair as dry as it would get with a towel and brushed it out gently, wincing at the few snags I hit. I threw it up in a clip to keep it out of the way while I got dressed and did my makeup. I slid a slip on before pulling the long dress Rarity had given me for my birthday last month and admired it for a moment. Its full skirt had been pleated in such a way that it would swirl slightly while I walked, and if I spun it would flare out to reveal it’s hidden pointed hem. Rarity had said it fit with my almost sylvan way of life. I just liked how pretty it looked and made me feel. The light green made me think of grass and trees. I did a quick makeup work, keeping it to some eyeshadow and blush. Then I took my hair down and glanced at the clock. I winced at the time. I had hoped to have more time, but I was running out. I pulled my hair into a high tail and pulled it into six sections, using a small elastic at the end of each to hold them separate. I then took my curling iron and curled each section, taking care not to let the iron to touch the elastic. When I pulled the hair ties out and gave my hair a quick ruffle, it fell in gentle waves around my shoulders. It wasn’t the most elaborate look I could do, but it would work in a pinch. Slipping on a pair of flats and chunky bracelet, I pulled on my peacoat and grabbed my purse, slipping out the door and into the late afternoon sun. “Just a moment, dear,” I hear Rarity call from upstairs. “I’m afraid I’m running a trifle late today.” I breathed a sigh of relief. I had made it to Manehattan with a few minutes to spare for the time we had agreed to meet and had a grace period I didn’t even know about. I sat on one of Rarity’s couches, crossing my legs and looking at the loft. The warehouse had been converted into three large studio lofts, the other two vacant at the moment. Rarity’s lower floor was dominated by her workspace, leaving a small space for entertaining and a kitchen. She had attempted to separate the work and living areas by setting up folding dividers, but her organized chaos tended to drift across the border more often than not. I stood when I heard heels clicking on the metal stairs of the spiral staircase. Rarity soon appeared, a gorgeous white dress with black accents paired with a pair of black ankle boots sheathing her slight form. She was still fitting earrings to her left ear, alternating a small gold hoop in the back with the black titanium dangles I had gotten her for Christmas in the forefront. She smiled as she saw me, reaching out and pulling me into an embrace. “Hello, dear heart,” she whispered into my ear and I melted a little. “Are you ready for dinner?” “I’m in no rush,” I said softly. “No need for this night to end quickly.” She dazzled me with a smile and took my arm in hers. “Then by all means,” she drawled. “We’ll take the scenic route.” The scenic route turned out to be the footpath through the botanical gardens near the university. It was still green and vibrant in most spots, annuals and Evergreen trees forming large places of shade even in winter. Rarity stopped near a southern magnolia tree, smiling and turning to me. “Close your eyes, darling,” she said. I was a little confused, but I trusted her. As soon as my eyes were shut, I felt her take my hands. “Now follow me, and don’t worry,” she said. “I won’t let you fall.” A few moments later, she stepped behind me and placed her hands on my shoulders. “Ok, Fluttershy,” she whispered. “You can open them.” I blinked my eyes open and saw a large sheet spread out across the ground under one of the larger magnolia trees, a basket sitting in the center with a bottle of sparkling cider and two glasses next to it. I turned to my love, surprised. “I thought that we spent enough time in restaurants,” she said. “And I know you don’t especially care for crowds that much, so I thought this would be a little more ‘us’, a little more personal.” She smiled. “Besides, there’s supposed to a meteor storm tonight, and this is a great place to view them from.” We started to unpack the basket, wonderful vegetarian dishes set within. Out of all our friends, Rarity and I understood Sunset’s diet preference and shared it more often than not. Rarity laid out a plate of cucumber sandwiches and a bowl of a spinach and romaine salad. A small bowl of berries and nuts were set out as well. “And the centerpiece of the whole affair,” Rarity said with a mysterious air, just before drawing out a small mp3 player and a pair of speakers. She hit a button and the soft sounds of nature started to filter through, birdsong and the sound of wind in the trees. I smiled, a tear sneaking by to creep down my face. “This is so nice, Rarity,” I whispered. She waved a well-manicured hand. “After all the effort you went through last year to get us tickets to the Countess Coloratura and Sapphire Shores concert? I thought this was the least I could do, set up a dinner in the midst of your own element.” I giggled. “I keep telling you, I’m not an elf, dear.” Rarity smiled even broader. “I agree. You’re more like a sylph; mysterious, beautiful, and next to impossible to catch.” She eyed me over a cucumber sandwich. “Makes me wonder how lucky I truly am.” “Oh, Rarity,” I said. “I’m the lucky one.” “Tell you what, darling,” she purred as she leaned forwards. “How about we just accept that we’re both lucky?” She kissed me, and the stars themselves blazed brighter. I woke up late that night, warm arms wrapped around me. I smiled as I heard her soft breathing and looked up at her sleeping face. I hoisted myself up slightly and kissed her lightly on the lips. She murmured some nonsense and smiled. “I love you, Rarity Belle,” I whispered before laying back down and falling asleep in the arms that gave me the comfort and support I had dreamed of for years.
Octavia and Vinyl ScratchI fidgeted as the dryer rumbled gently in the background. I hated sitting still, it let too much rise up into my thoughts. My computer was still mixing down the latest track I had written, and I didn’t want to try and work on anything while precious processor power was being sucked up by my music editor program. It was probably time to start thinking about updating to a newer model, but first I had to have the cash to do it. “Vinyl, are you going to be ready in time?” I hear Octavia call up, her refined voice making me smile. Back when I had transferred to CHS, I hadn’t been well received. I was too gawky, too tall, and too quiet, but Octavia had befriended me without a second thought. I ran my hand through my hair, leaning over the railing to see her standing down in the foyer, setting her cello to the side. I had been ecstatic when she told me she had made the local Philharmonic, another step towards her dream. She had immediately said that we were going out to celebrate, despite my preference to stay in. I caught her eye and signed down Waiting on pants. She nodded and came up to join me. She saw the mixing screen on my laptop and sat down next to me. “A new mix for the club?” I nodded, raising my hands to sign to her the title when she reached over and grabbed them, pushing them back into my lap. “It’s just us, Vi,” she said. “You don’t need to hide from me.” I glanced away, but she put a hand on my cheek and brought me around to face her again. I saw the love and understanding in her eyes. I sighed. “It’s a remix of my intro music,” I said, my voice scratchy and deeper than I'd like. “I heard a really good beat the other day at the record store and I got the idea for it.” She leaned into me, slipping an arm across my stomach. “Now was that so hard, Vi?” she asked. “I don’t understand why you won’t relax even when it’s just you and me.” “You remember what my Freshman year was like, Tavi,” I said. “Couldn’t even use the washroom in peace. The notes slipped in my locker, how hard it was to get people to call me the right name.” I sighed again. “It got easier as my meds started to make me look more like I should have, but that doesn’t erase the memories.” “And you’re still embarrassed about your voice,” she finished for me. I nodded. “It’s one thing I can’t change about me easily. So I try not to speak when I don’t have to.” “It’s not that bad, Vi,” she said, reaching up to run her hand along my cheek. “It’s just a little rough. No one would have a problem with it. It’s certainly no worse than Rainbow’s voice.” I searched her eyes for a hint of her just trying to ease my discomfort but saw none. She held up her hand and I saw her phone in it, the voice recorder activated. I frowned as she hit playback, and I heard the last five minutes of conversation again. I heard her voice and another young woman, voice a little rough but somewhere in an alto range. “See?” she asked. I felt some tears well up behind my eyes. Are you ok? she signed, seeing the emotion rise. I held up a single hand, thumb, index, and pinkie extended. She smiled and leaned up to peck me on the lips. “I love you too, Vi,” she said as a buzzing sound came from further back in the loft. “And I believe those are your trousers,” she said, rising and padding to the bedroom, giving an extra sway to her hip as she went. “Do try and get ready quickly,” she said as she paused at the doorframe. “Honestly, you take more time than I do, silly girl.” I grinned and pulled my good slacks from the dryer, heading to the smaller bathroom to hop in the shower. My wife was waiting, after all. I looked at myself in the mirror, fingers adding just a bit more tousle to my hair. I was in a pair of flared boot cut slacks and a long tunic. My glasses sat on the counter next to my headphones and I heard the door to the closest slide closed. Tavi apparently had chosen her shoes and was finishing up her preparations. I slipped my glasses and headphones on and went to slide my own shoes on. I was pulling on a shin length cardigan when Octavia came out from the bathroom, her hair up in an elaborate wrap and a warm heater gray sweater dress on with a blanket scarf wrapped around her shoulders. She was wearing the boots that she knew I loved, their soft suede texture and the short stacked heel pushed aside the image of the serious musician and instilled an image of the woman I loved. “I see we tied this time,” she said as she finished sliding a handful of bracelets onto one arm. I smiled, pushing my glasses up the bridge of my nose. “I’m always ready for you,” I said as I signed out slowpoke. She mock glowered at me and signed back screwball. I giggled and grabbed the keys to the car. “I’m driving,” I said. “Of course you are,” Tavi said, grabbing my headphones and dropping them on the couch. “But those are staying here tonight.” She leaned in close. “I’m going to make sure you enjoy every minute, my dear. I only want my wife to be happy.” As we headed to the car, I leaned in and whispered in her ear. “Wub you, Tavi.” “Wubs to you too, Vi,” she said. “When we get back, you’ll have to play your new track for me.” “You’ve heard it before,” I frowned slightly. “I don’t care,” she said. “Play it again.” Author's Note The first of what I hope to be several unconventional relationships in my writing. Vinyl and Octavia do fit well together, and I think a reason we never hear Vinyl speak is not because she is deaf as we see so many times, but something more personal. I did find one piece of art that put her as blind and that was very interesting to see, though I've lost the link. I almost made her mute due to a botched tonsillectomy, but then wondered what if she was ashamed of her voice, much like I am my own. That brought Vinyl over to my side of the brain, where identity is difficult to maintain and solid friends are worth more than all the bits in Equestria. While our world has a way to go about acceptance, Equestria has surely moved past that. Ignoring some foalish teasing, ponies, in general, are very accepting of differences.
Princess Luna and Princess Twilight SparkleAuthor's Note This ship is part of the Equestria 616 timeline. Princess Luna and Princess Twilight Sparkle I collapsed as soon as the doors closed behind the last guest, exhausted. “Will these balls ever get less boring?” I asked to the air. I felt a hoof rub me between my wings. “I feel your fatigue as well, Twilight,” Luna said. “But matters of state do tend to take priority over comfort.” I looked up at the dark Alicorn. “I know, I know,” I said, rising. “But you would think that they would give us time to mingle and maybe sit down.” Luna chuckled, moving over and giving me a nuzzle. “Believe me, I have asked my sister many times the same question.” She looked over as staff members started to do light cleaning and clearing away the leftover food. “Maybe we should move on to a more suitable locale?” she said, her smile warming my heart. “What did you have in mind?” I asked, smiling back. “This is amazing!” I cried as I looked around the landscape. It may have been a little barren, but the view was amazing. “I am glad that you find the view pleasing,” Luna said, looking around. “Even after so many years, the sight of this far-reaching night lifts my spirits up.” I looked up at the sky, more stars than I had ever seen from my balcony on my castle or my room at the palace. I couldn’t even begin to recognize them all. I turned to take in the entirety of the sky and stopped as a new site rose into view. The planet turned beneath me, a glowing blue and green gem with fluffy white streaks slowly drifting across its surface. “Is that…” “Yes,” Luna said, coming up and draping a wing across me. “And Equestria is below us as we speak.” She pointed a hoof at the planet. “And that is Ponyville, nestled in the valley by that mountain range.” I stared at my home, seeing the gleam of my castle. “This is beautiful, Luna,” I said as I nuzzled her neck. “Thank you for showing it to me.” “For a thousand years, these views served to taunt me as I sat imprisoned here,” she said, looking down for a moment. “After you freed me, I was having difficulty looking at the moon as I raised it, and I hid my gaze from the domain that was to be mine.” She turned her head up to face me. “But now I gaze at the sky and smile fondly at the fact that I have friends that enjoy the view that I reveal each day.” She returned my nuzzle and sat to watch the planet spin beneath us. “Do you know what today is?” I asked. “I have difficulty keeping track of days,” she said, rubbing the back of her neck, her mane shimmering in the starlight. “It is a consequence of splitting the day in half.” I giggled and leaned into her. “Once the sun rises, it’s Hearts and Hooves Day,” I said. “And I can’t think of anything more perfect than sharing this view with my special somepony.” Luna gazed down at me, but not as much as she once had. The years between our saving her and today had seen me grow a few inches, starting to resemble Cadence in frame. Rarity had been excited about being able to design new gowns for me. A thin ring of brilliance started to show around the edge of the planet. “Then I should probably complete this properly,” Luna said, kissing me just as the sun rose fully. I woke up in my bed, the tingle of Luna’s kiss still on my lips. I smiled and trotted down the hall to the tower that housed the Tower of Duty. Just as I approached the door, Luna came through, looking sleepy. She perked up a bit when she saw me, and trotted over, giving me a dignified nuzzle. “Happy Hearts and Hooves Day,” she whispered into my ear. I pushed my head up under her chin, turning into her slightly, aligning my body with hers. “That was beautiful, Lulu,” I whispered. “Thanks for sharing it with me.” “You are most welcome, Twily,” she whispered in return. “And as much as I would like to spend this day with you, I regret I must retire for a short rest.” I grinned. “I am feeling a little tired,” I said, yawning. She glanced at me, a small smile crossing her face. “You do seem fatigued,” she said. “Perhaps you should return to bed.” I awoke after a short while, finding Luna’s wing draped across me. The dream I had shared with her was still fresh and sharp in my mind. I leaned over and kissed her gently, settling back into the bed. Princess Luna stirred, turning slightly as a smile spread across her face. “Of course you can have more scones, Tia,” she tittered. “I have plenty of jam for them.” I giggled as I enjoyed her warmth. “Save one for me, Celestia,” I said as I started to doze again.
Starlight Glimmer and TrixieI sat at the desk, tapping my hoof as I read the same passage for the fifth time. I kept getting distracted by the ponies trotting by the window, walking close to each other or stopping to nuzzle and kiss. I growled and slammed the book closed. I hated this day. Every year I couldn’t help but get grumpy about this stupid holiday. Even back at the village I had founded, they had celebrated - albeit covertly - Hearts and Hooves Day. I lifted the book and turned to head to the library. As I trotted down the hallway, I bumped into Spike as he loped out of a room. “Sorry, Starlight,” he said as he reached out to steady himself. “Are you ok?” I nodded, still a little touchy because of the day. “Where are you off to in such a hurry?” He reached down and picked up a package. “I’m going over to Rarity’s to give her this for Hearts and Hooves Day. I’ve been aging this ice sapphire for weeks and it’s perfectly ripe.” I could tell he was salivating at the thought of a ripe ice sapphire. I smiled ruefully. “Make sure it makes it to her, loverboy,” I teased before trudging along the hallway again. “Are you sure you’re ok?” he asked as he rushed up to trot alongside me. “You seem kind of upset.” “I don't want to talk about it,” I said as I pushed the doors to the library open. Replacing the book from where I got it from I started scanning the shelves, looking for anything to take my mind off the day. “Ok,” the dragon said slowly. “If you’re sure about it. I’ll see you later!” I waved distractedly, eyes still roving the spines of the books. I sighed after a few minutes. Nothing jumped out at me, nothing even hobbled at me. I took a seat next to one of the desks in the library, glancing at the scrawled notes made by either myself or Twilight while we were researching glamor spells and the malfunctions of the mirror. I sighed. Those were exciting days, and the trip through the mirror had been fascinating beyond anything I could imagine. I hadn’t exactly enjoyed trying to pick things up with those…what were they called? Fingers? Being without magic had been anxiety-inducing, but the performance by the other world's version of my friends’ band was invigorating, as had watching them all walk across the stage and accepting their degrees. I glanced at the mirror, wondering for a second about heading across. Then I noticed the book was missing, keeping the portal from allowing a pony to cross. I got up and walked around, looking for the journal. I had finished a circuit of the room when Twilight came in, the journal hovering behind her along with two more books. “Hi Starlight!” she said as she set the journal in the bracket over the mirror. “Happy Hearts and Hooves Day.” “Yeah, yeah,” I grumbled. “What have you got there?” “While the journal Sunset and I contact each other with contain a Mobius spell for the pages, their Rarity and Rainbow Dash are moving away soon. I made up a pair of journals for each of them to keep in touch with each other.” I glanced at the floating books, with Rainbow Dash’s and Rarity’s cutie marks on them. “Twilight?” “Hm?” “Didn’t they have little devices that could do that for them?” She blushed. “Oh, right,” she whispered. Perking up a bit, she smiled at me. “Well, let’s consider it a graduation gift!” She rubbed her hoof across her chin. “But what to get Sunset and Sunshine?” I smiled as an idea popped into my head. I suggested it and Twilight smiled. “That sounds perfect!” I was sitting on a hill outside Ponyville, watching the sun make its way towards the horizon. I shivered a bit as a chill breeze blew in, mussing my mane and raising goosebumps. “At least the day’s almost over,” a voice said as a scarf draped itself over me, surrounded by a familiar magic aura. I turned and smiled at my best friend, Beatrix Lulamoon, as she sat down next to me, her cloak wrapped around her. “It’s such a stupid holiday,” she said as she tugged the collar of her cloak tighter around her neck. “I don’t see what anypony sees in getting all excited about what’s basically another day.” “I can sort of understand it,” I said. “It’s not so much the day, but somepony you spend it with.” I smiled wistfully into the distance. “All the day does is remind you who’s important to you.” Trixie gazed out in the distance. “I guess you’re right,” she said. “But what about those of us that don’t have a special somepony to spend the day with? That just makes the day miserable.” I saw her glance at me out of the corner of my eye. I thought back to all the shows we had done over the last few years. I also remembered the strange looks I had seen her give me when she thought I wasn’t looking. Those kept me up at night sometimes, trying to figure out just how I felt. “Who said you don’t?” I said softly. She looked at me with a questioning look. I turned to her. “I may not know exactly how you feel or how I do, but you are special to me.” I glanced down. “You’re the first friend I made since I came here that wasn't part of Twilight's entourage. That makes you special in my book.” Trixie blinked, a tear in her eye. “Really?” I smiled and moved over to hug her. “Of course,” I said. I stood, adjusting the scarf around my neck and withers. “What do you say to two good friends going and grabbing something to eat?” She stood as well. “The Great and Powerful Trixie does not need such things,” she said in her stage voice. Smiling, she looked at me. “Plain old Beatrix, though, would love to,” she said in her softer and gentle normal voice. As we trotted back towards town, Trixie stopped and looked at me. “Starlight,” she said quietly. “You know I find you kind of cute, and I'm thankful for the help on the show and being my friend. But I’m not sure how these things work. I’ve been on my own a lot, after all.” I looked at her and smiled. “Doesn’t mean you have to be all the time.” I looked back at the sunset. “You know how I used to be before Twilight went to the village I set up.” I blinked back a tear. “But do you know how I’m getting by it?” She shook her head. “One day at a time, Trixie,” I said. “One day at a time,” she whispered, nodding. “That works for me.” Author's Note I don't plan on them becoming a couple insofar as a sexual relationship. There are couples in this world that are together just because they enjoy each other's company and emotional support. There can be physical attraction between them without them ever wanting anything more. I hope that doesn't bring out the pitchforks and torches, though.
