Alternate Beginnings: Year Three

Chapters

1 A New Year
3 Cottage
4 Celestial Meeting
5 Review Closed
6 Cheerilee
7 Requisition a Pet
8 Breach
9 Bridge
10 Burned
11 Summer Celebration
12 Train Travel
13 Gearing Up
15 Beyond Sight
16 Unnatural Energy
17 Monstrous Treasure
18 Lasting Impressions
19 The Stockkeeper
20 The Singular Spirit
21 Ending the Torment
22 The Flow of Energy
23 Lost in the Pages
24 Epilogue: Four Years Later
2 Family Planning
14 A Valuable Combination

1 A New Year

January 1st, 995 Domina Solaria

The clock in Ponyville can barely be heard, the strike of midnight faintly echoing among the apple trees. The sky is completely clear of clouds, every star visible as they twinkle among the void. The moon, with its rocky depiction of Luna, seems to hover in the center of the vast expanse. It shines brightly, illuminating the land of Equestria almost as well as Celestia's daytime sun.

The mares of Herd Apple are currently snuggling with their 'stallion', the human known as Doug, or more formally, Doug Graves Apple. He is laying on his back on several thick blankets spread out on the snowy roof of the farmhouse at Sweet Apple Acres, the herd's main base of operations. His lead mare, Applejack, is laying on her back at his right side, enjoying the coveted ministrations of his right hand behind her ears. The earth pony's ear flicks as she looks up at the sky, enraptured as Princess Celestia begins her show. His second mare, Rarity, is on his left, though she appears to be napping while his arm rests across her mane. He strokes her carefully styled curls, the unicorn slowly stirring as she wakes. She snuggles closer into his side, slowly opening her azure eyes and looking at him. They share a quick smile before Rarity turns her face upwards, watching the celestial performance.

Nestled between his legs, careful not to crush anything, is the third mare of Herd Apple, Rainbow Dash. The pegasus has her forelegs up in the air, waving them back and forth as she mimes directing the light show above. Her wings, folded against her body, occasionally try to poof out to her sides during the more spectacular portions, but Doug's legs are in the way. She glances up at her stallion, giving Doug an apologetic smile before returning to her pantomime, appending a few extra explosions she knows will be added to the show next year, once she is able to give Princess Celestia her recommendations.

Quietly laying next to his right leg is Fluttershy, the fourth mare in Herd Apple. The pegasus is watching the performance, mesmerized by the twinkling stars. Pinkie Pie, his fifth and final mare, is seated on his left. While her eyes are glued to the stars as they flit back and forth, her hooves are otherwise occupied. She seems to be assembling a large noisemaker, or possibly the payload for her party cannon, and the earth pony whispers over to Rainbow Dash, "Hey, next year, think we can borrow a few of those fireworks your parents have? Then we could really spice this up!"

Rarity interjects, "Shh! You two, some of us are trying to enjoy this! Quiet!"

Rainbow rolls her eyes but keeps her mouth shut, continuing to direct the stars with the absence of extra bursts of sound. Pinkie Pie gives a loud 'harrumph' but quiets down. She starts to perk back up again, raising her head and looking back as Rarity responds with a loud 'Shh!' The earth pony sighs, putting away the monstrosity she had been working on and rolling onto her back.

Fluttershy glances over to the three foals laying next to her, each lightly snoring. Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo are each bundled up in a blanket, their coats not quite thick enough to keep the cold winter air away. The three foals, nearly a year old, had insisted that they wanted to stay up and watch the show with their dams, Applejack, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash respectively. Nopony wanted to deny them the chance, but neither are they going to wake the likely cranky bundles of energy when it takes so much work to get them to sleep in the first place. Satisfied the foals are comfortable and still asleep, Fluttershy returns to her spot, watching the finale.

In the sky, the moon slowly fades as the stars align themselves, row upon row of circles surrounding the moon. They slowly wave back and forth, shapes appearing and fading as the points of light ripple in the sky. Gradually the moon brightens before the stars flash, bursting away from the moon in a cacophony of motion. Dozens of shapes appear, distinct clusters of one or three or four objects that flicker before transforming into another. This continues for several minutes before Doug whispers, "What are those?"

Rarity responds in a hushed voice, "Those are the cutie marks of everypony who fell or was injured during the fight between Princess Celestia and Nightmare Moon." Doug nods as the stars stop flickering, retaining a dull glow as they form into the last shape, a color inversion of Princess Luna's cutie mark. The moon shines brightly, as if taking a bite out of a black void. The circle of black is surrounded by stars, some making little islands as the shape expands, the stars slowly spreading apart, glowing brighter to make up for the increased distance.

Applejack moves her head to the side, leaving Doug's fingers behind as she shares a long kiss with her stallion. She breaks away, smiling at Doug and moving to the side. Rarity approaches next, her delicate kiss leaving behind a hint of lavender. She moves to the side as Rainbow Dash spins to her hooves, placing one on each side of his hips. She tickles his stomach with her muzzle before slowly makes her way up Doug's chest, kissing him on the lips as she lowers her hind legs, resting her body along his stomach.

Rarity and Applejack suppress a laugh as Fluttershy moves up Doug's side, saying in a quiet voice, "Um, excuse me, Rainbow Dash, but some of us are still waiting." Rainbow breaks away, doing her best to exaggerate a frown at Doug. She turns her head, trying to keep the frown going as she looks at Fluttershy, but the yellow mare does a much better job at keeping a straight face.

Rainbow bursts out laughing first, leaping into the air and moving over, giving Fluttershy a quick nuzzle, "You keep working on that, you little kidder, you."

Fluttershy stammers, hiding behind her mane and saying, "Oh, um, I mean, if you want to keep going, then-" before Pinkie Pie starts pushing her backside.

Pinkie Pie says, "Hey, make with the kissing already!" as a startled Fluttershy finds herself face to face with Doug. He smiles up, guiding her towards him before sharing a quick kiss. Fluttershy smiles back at him and gently pulls her head away; Doug releases her, and she moves away just in time before Pinkie leaps over, slobbering over Doug's face as she kisses him. Doug tries to move back and forth to catch Pinkie in a kiss but the mare evades him, planting kisses everywhere but his mouth.

Applejack comes to Doug's rescue, putting a hoof on Pinkie's back and saying, "Alright, Pinkie Pie, that's enough. We need to head on inside, y'all can continue in there." A disappointed Pinkie Pie frowns, her eyes moving towards Applejack just as Doug succeeds in kissing her mouth.

Pinkie Pie frowns, "Hey! I was distracted, no fair!" as Doug ruffles her mane. He pulls out a cupcake, taking a bite before getting up and gathering the blankets. Rainbow Dash and Rarity take their foals and exit the roof, Rainbow by flying off with Scootaloo nestled on her back and Rarity by carefully making her way down the ladder, Sweetie Belle levitating next to her. Applejack follows down the ladder as Fluttershy slowly flutters down, Apple Bloom held in her hooves. Fluttershy passes Apple Bloom back to Applejack as Rainbow opens the door, holding it open for everypony. The snow crunches under his bare feet as Doug comes down last, shaking the blankets off once he is safely on the ground.

He turns, looking again at the night sky. This will be his third year in Equestria, the actual anniversary falling around the time spring begins, and like both years previous it looks to be a busy one. His job as weather scheduler, where he figures out what the various towns and cities need as far as rain, sun, and clouds, and then writes the instructions for the weather ponies. His assistance to Applejack with repairing their equipment or working in the fields. He might be needed more this year to help with the harvest than the previous, as Applejack is spending a lot of time instructing Apple Bloom with her magic.

Both Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo continue to have difficulties with their magic as well. Sweetie Belle is working on levitation, the foal able to move around small objects but with occasional unpredictable results. Scootaloo is working on mastering standing on clouds, to be able to keep on top of one while sleeping, but is still unable to manipulate clouds beyond that; she can barely slow her descent with her wings and magic.

Rainbow Dash is waiting for Doug at the doorway, Scootaloo no longer nestled between her wings. The mare glances back inside before she smiles up at him as he walks inside, nuzzling into his hand as he rubs her head. He tosses the blankets off to the side before picking her up, squeezing her tightly and slowly walking to the master bed. He sets her down on the bed as the rest of the mares file into the room.

Doug lays down on the bed, resting his arms behind his head as Rainbow climbs on top of him. He smiles at each of them as they move onto the bed, taking positions around him. He rolls his eyes as each mare raises their hoof; he sighs, asking his question that had been forming on his lips, "Alright, who wants to be first?" and smiling as each mare cuddles next to him.

3 Cottage

February 12th, 995 DS

The snow crunches between Doug's toes as he jogs towards Fluttershy's cottage. Ever since Applejack challenged him to keep the house colder and 'deal with it' he has been trying to acclimate himself to the elements. So far, he thinks as he grimaces, his numb feet will need attention as soon as he gets to his destination. Hopefully the mare has a fire going; at least the temperature is just below freezing, and he won't need to worry about frostbite. Yet.

'Foal steps' he mutters as he slowly down, wincing as he breathes in the warmer air outside her cottage; maybe on the return trip he will take off his gloves instead, or maybe the hat. His coat was the first thing he stopped wearing, though he still carries it in case he needs to stop or something happens. Same with his boots, at least for this trip.

He knocks twice on the door before pushing it open, Fluttershy stirring a large pot of broth in the kitchen. She perks up when she sees him, giving a quick wave before settling back on four hooves. She tests the contents before moving to the counter, picking up a tray of assorted vegetables and dumping them into the pot. She stirs a few more times as Doug removes his hat and gloves, setting his winter gear in the corner before moving over and warming his feet by the fire.

The two sit, enjoying the silence as Fluttershy continues preparing their next meal. After she takes a few spices and adds them to the pot Doug asks, "So, you keeping busy around here?"

Fluttershy nods, "I've been working on some of the larger habitats. Making a nice wood framework that we can build and then cover with dirt."

Doug smiles, "That sounds like a great idea; make a nice interior, less chance of them collapsing?"

Fluttershy tastes the soup, "Yep! And it's nice to do something with your hooves, you know? It can get a little boring with only a few animal friends around. Applejack's is nice, but I want to do more around here."

Doug looks around Fluttershy's cottage; there are three rooms downstairs, the main sitting area combines her kitchen and dining room; another room off to the side, with a few lounging chairs and tables, and a bathroom. Both have various birdhouses, dens, and bookcases where animals are free to come and go, though the mouse holes in the wall give Doug pause. The stairs lead to the single bedroom, again sparsely decorated except for the animal habitats. He asks, "So, what do you want to do with the place?"

Fluttershy pauses, looking down at her hooves, "Oh. Um, I... don't really know."

Doug nods along, looking at the bare floors and walls, "It could use a little decorating, I suppose. What kinds of patterns are you looking for? Or are you preparing for a new arrival?" He winks at Fluttershy, the mare sighing.

"Well, as I said before, I don't think I'll be foaling this year, or I suppose it would be next year. Not this coming heat. I've been thinking a little about it, what I want to do when it happens." Fluttershy pauses, looking around the room at the various habitats, the stairs leading to tiny houses, the oven sitting open to the room. "I... I don't know if I want the foal to stay here. It can get pretty crowded, with me and, well, all the animals I've opened my house to. Not that I think that they would do anything to the foal, or that the foal would do anything to them, I just..."

Fluttershy sighs, lowering herself to her hooves and hiding behind her mane. Doug sits down next to her, petting her back and lightly pulling her towards himself. Fluttershy looks over, trying to smile at him as she says, "You really like holding us, don't you?" Doug nods, stroking her face before she sighs, closing her eyes and settling down in his lap. She happily sighs as his hands rub at her back a little stronger, smiling as she says, "I don't want her, my foal, to grow up all alone in here. I got this place because I like being with the animals, and it is a perfect location for that. I never thought that there would be a stallion in my life; I thought I was going to grow old, watching the animals as they grow their little families." Fluttershy sighs again, tears running from her closed eyes, "Maybe Rainbow would set me up with some pegasus she knows on the weather patrol." She laughs to herself, "I guess she did, in a way. But a foal needs to be around more than just animals. She needs a herd, she needs more ponies that will be there to play with and show her that she is loved. Especially if the foal we have has the same difficulties as Rainbow's."

Doug nods, "I don't think Applejack will have any problem housing your foals, just like we house Rainbow and Scootaloo. You are more than welcome to stay over more often, you know."

Fluttershy slowly shakes her head, "Yes, well, I feel like I'm intruding when it's somepony else's turn with you that night or morning."

Doug gives Fluttershy a squeeze, "Oh, Fluttershy, you're never unwanted. I think some of them even try a little harder when they know somepony is watching." She opens her eyes, looking up at him as he winks at her.

She shudders at the thought, sighing, "Oh, not me, I can barely get up the courage to be with you when it's just the two of us, never mind when somepony like Rainbow wants to 'help' with the action."

Doug sighs, "Yes, she can be a little adventurous. You know we don't want to make you uncomfortable, and to be honest, I really have no idea what this sort of herd thing is 'supposed' to be like, you know? I think it's supposed to be whatever each of us wants, and if you want to be alone, then, I think the others will be disappointed but they'll accept it."

Fluttershy shakes her head, "I don't want to be alone, I just... I'm just afraid that they won't like me, that they won't want to be with me."

Doug shakes his head as he stands up, holding Fluttershy in his arms as he moves over to the pot of soup. He rubs her mane, gently setting her down before he pulls the lid off the pot, grabbing two bowls and filling them with vegetables. Fluttershy gets two glasses of juice as he takes a sip of the broth, breathing out and holding his tongue out at the heat. Fluttershy giggles, taking a sniff of the broth before moving to her counter, grabbing a dash of salt and adding it to her bowl.

Doug looks over to the pegasus, blowing on his bowl before saying, "Fluttershy, you know the others like and care about you."

Fluttershy hides behind her mane as she quietly says, "Well, they could..." before she becomes too quiet to hear.

Doug stares at Fluttershy, taking a spoonful of broth and blowing on it. Fluttershy peeks an eye out, seeing Doug staring at her and immediately hides behind her mane again, whimpering. Doug sighs, taking the spoon into his mouth and swishing the broth around, making strangled, 'Mmph! Mmph!' noises as he tries to spread the heat around.

Fluttershy looks from behind her mane, concern in her eyes as she asks, "Doug? Are you all right?" She moves a hoof over, placing it on Doug's leg as his face turns red.

Doug nods, swallowing before panting, his tongue hanging out of his open mouth. He takes a sip of his juice before saying, "Mm, still a little too hot. Thanks, 'Shy, for looking out for me."

Fluttershy smiles, "Oh, you're welcome." She settles back down before frowning at him, "You did that on purpose."

Doug shrugs, a smile on his face, "You got me."

Fluttershy sighs, looking away from Doug, "Fine. Be like Dash, she's your favorite anyway."

Doug sighs, looking down at his hands. "What do you want, Fluttershy?"

Fluttershy says in a soft voice, "I want the others to appreciate me." Doug sets his bowl off to the side, gathering the mare in his arms. He holds her tightly against him as she continues, a tear in her eye, "Doug, I want to help, I want the others to tell me I do a good job, but I'm scared. I don't make a lot of money, I haven't given you a foal, not yet, and I don't know what to do about it. I stay here all alone and I worry that you and the others don't want me around, because I don't come along on your trips with Rarity, I don't work with you like Rainbow and Applejack. Pinkie Pie is always over at the house, helping with the foals, and she's going to have one with you."

Fluttershy turns her head, resting her wet eyes against Doug's chest as she breathes heavily. Doug rubs her barrel, watching it go up and down as she lays in his arms, before saying, "Fluttershy, each of the mares in this herd love and care about you. They want to be more involved but, like you, they don't really know what they can do with you, activities that they would enjoy doing with you." Fluttershy nods into his chest as he continues, "What kind of things do you like doing?"

Fluttershy looks up at Doug, slowly breathing out. She takes another breath before saying, "Well, I like animals."

Doug nods, "I think they like animals, too. Have you thought about introducing them to a pet, a companion?"

Fluttershy quiets down, contemplating for a moment before saying, "No, I haven't. What kind of animal do you think they would want as a friend?"

Doug shrugs, "That sounds like a great conversation that you can have with each of them, something for you to do together, with them, something that they can appreciate and let you know how much they appreciate it. Now, let's finish this delicious soup and start work on some of those burrows, hmm?"

Fluttershy nods, getting out of Doug's lap and moving over to her soup, starting to lap up the broth. She quickly finishes her portion, going to one of the windows and looking outside. The wood she has is still out there, but it and the ground are covered in snow. She turns back to Doug, saying, "Once you are finished, if you can bring the wood inside, to the side room. We'll have to leave the finished burrows in here, otherwise the snow won't be cleared in a few days."

Doug nods, finishing his meal before grabbing his boots and gloves. He leaves the door open, Fluttershy following him outside. The two pick up a few of the planks, Fluttershy mostly helping guide the long pieces of wood into the house. The shorter pieces are carried by Fluttershy as Doug takes some of the wider side pieces. He looks over at the assembled pieces, saying, "This is, like, a small house that we are building. How are we getting it outside, through the door?"

Fluttershy puts a hoof to her chin, "Um. Well." She gives a shy smile, "Maybe we should build it outside? But then it'll get snow all over, and it'll be cold."

Doug shrugs, "Well, good thing I brought my coat. Let's go over the plans for this structure, take all this wood back outside, and then start work on it. Who's the house for, anyway?"

Fluttershy says, "That sounds good. It'll be a house for my friend Harry. He's a bear, I met him last fall, and he's thinking about moving here. He wouldn't have a place to stay, so we're going to help build him something out near the Everfree."

Doug nods, finishing his look over the blueprints. He gathers his coat and boots, putting them on before finding the hammer, nails, and other tools they would need to build the house. He remarks to Fluttershy, "Good thing we can just have Applejack and Big Mac drag the house to where we need it, right?" as he puts on his gloves and hat.

Fluttershy nods, the two of them moving the wood outside and setting up the frame. The two start working on nailing some of the boards together as Fluttershy thinks through the animals she has available now. It might be doable, or maybe she should wait until spring, so that all of the animals will have a chance.

4 Celestial Meeting

March 3rd, 995

Applejack nervous taps her hoof against the floor, inspecting the room around her. Her dining room has been decorated courtesy of Rarity and Sweetie Belle, the year old foal already starting to follow in her dam's hoofsteps. Applejack smiles as she looks at a few of the ribbons sprinkled with glitter and glue; the foal has her dam's flair, but not quite her control.

She looks over at the refreshments on the table; a cake from Pinkie Pie, the dried trail and fruit mix that Doug likes, and the apple cider Rainbow can't get enough of. Though they are running low on cider, she'll need to get Rainbow to cut back a little, at least for a few weeks or so. However, with the Princess coming, the barrels will flow freely.

Satisfied with the food and drink, Applejack rearranges the chairs, making sure the Princesses will have plenty of room. Everypony in the herd wants to meet the Princesses again, even though the two discouraged the herd from making known that they are coming. Princess Celestia also wants the herd to keep quiet that she is getting assistance in this manner; if unsuccessful, she doesn't want ponies to lose faith in her abilities. Or, if successful, she might not want the origins of the procedure or its creator known. Mostly for Doug's sake; the human doesn't want recognition or to have to deal with the fame that will surely come if this is successful.

The front door opens, Rarity and Sweetie Belle coming inside. Rarity smiles at the decorations, saying, "Look, Sweetie, at how beautiful this room looks!"

Sweetie Belle moves over to one of the bright ribbons tied in a bow around a window, growing excited, "Mama! I helped make this!"

Rarity smiles at Applejack, taking her seat, "Yes, you did, Sweetie. Now, we need to take our seats and wait patiently for the Princess." Sweetie Belle moves to the seat next to Rarity, climbing up and sitting down.

Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, and Scootaloo arrive next. Rainbow Dash takes a glass of cider, sipping her drink while Fluttershy directs Scootaloo towards the trail mix and helps the foal with a glass of apple juice. Scootaloo looks tired from the exercises Rainbow Dash is putting her through, slumping down on her chair and nibbling on the dried apples.

Pinkie Pie, Doug, and Apple Bloom arrive last; Pinkie Pie has a stack of muffins and cupcakes, Doug is carrying a box of oats, Apple Bloom has tiny saddlebags full of apples from their latest harvest. Each gets placed on the table, the ponies beginning their evening meal.

Shortly after the moon rises a light can be seen briefly shining outside the house. A second one follows shortly after, the heavy sound of hooves coming from the porch. Doug gets up, opening the door for Princess Celestia and Princess Cadance. He bows his head, holding the door for them as each pony takes a knee. Princess Celestia smiles at each pony in the room, saying, "Rise, my little ponies. It is good to see you again."

Applejack gets up first, "Welcome, Princess Celestia and Princess Cadance, to our humble home. Please, make yourselves comfortable; we have some refreshments on the table, and Ah'd be happy to whip something up for ya if you'd like more."

The other ponies rise, again taking their seats at the table and leaving two spots with plates containing samples of their meal. The two alicorns make their way to the table; Princess Celestia nods, a smile on her face, as she takes a bite of the cake. Princess Cadance takes her place next to her aunt, trying some of the dried apple mix. She bites into one of the fresh apples, alternating between the two as Princess Celestia says, "Thank you, Applejack. Well, I suspect some of you are eager to get to tonight's activities, and some of you are wondering what is going on."

Apple Bloom, who had been looking at Applejack, says in a tentative voice, "Mama? Why are the Princesses in our house?"

Applejack stammers a little, "Well, um, Apple Bloom, you see, you know how you live with your sisters Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle?"

Apple Bloom nods, "Ah huh."

Applejack continues, "Well, you see, the Princesses, they live up in Canterlot, at the castle. And they are trying to have a foal, just like Ah had you, and Rarity had Sweetie Belle, and Rainbow Dash had Scootaloo."

Apple Bloom looks confused, "So, the Princesses are trying to start a family? With Daddy?"

Applejack shakes her head, "No, it's... um... Princess Celestia, she's tried really hard, for a really long time, to have a family. It's one of the most important things for her, along with keeping all her little ponies safe. And now she's trying to help Princess Cadance start a family of her own. Kind of like when you are working with the seeds; you know how hard it is for you to find the seeds and help them grow? And how much me being there helped you?"

Apple Bloom stares at her hooves while Princess Celestia moves over to the window, looking up at the moon. A hint of a tear can be seen in her eyes as she whispers, "I do wish to have my family again."

Apple bloom looks up at Applejack, nodding and saying, "It's really hard finding the seeds."

Applejack nuzzles Apple Bloom, "Well, it's been even harder for the Princesses, because they've been trying really hard, and they still haven't found their seeds yet."

Apple Bloom frowns, looking at her hooves again, "Aww. But, the Princesses are sisters? Kind of like how you and Rarity are sisters, and you help each other and look out for each other?"

Princess Celestia nods, glancing back from the window, "Well, Aunt and Niece would be more appropriate but yes, I love my sister very much."

Scootaloo, slightly confused, says, "So, the Princesses are kind of like sisters?"

Princess Celestia nods, "Yes, little Scootaloo, we are kind of like sisters."

Sweetie Belle says, "Then you must love your sister very much, to do all this for her!"

Princess Celestia smiles briefly at Sweetie Belle before she turns away. She looks again out the window, a tear fully formed in her eye as she gazes at the rocky depiction of Princess Luna, emblazoned in the night sky. Princess Cadance notices and after a brief pause responds, "Yes, she loves her sisters very much."

Apple Bloom looks up at Applejack, oblivious to Princess Celestia's tears, "Applejack? I love you very much. Can I call you my big sister?"

Applejack looks over at Princess Celestia, "Yes, Apple Bloom, I would like that very much. You can be my sister too!"

Sweetie Belle echoes, "Mama? May I call you my sister as well?"

Rarity smiles, "Yes, dearest, you may call me your sister as well."

The room goes silent as Princess Celestia continues staring at the moon, the rest of the ponies looking between Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo.

Rainbow Dash breaks the silence, "What?"

Scootaloo whispers to Rainbow Dash, trying to not acknowledge the ponies looking at them, "I think they want us to call each other sisters."

Rainbow slowly nods, scratching the back of her head, "Ohh. Hey, squirt, you can call me sister, you know, from time to time."

Scootaloo scratches her head just like Rainbow, "Alright... sis. I... might do that from time to time."

Smiles are traded around as Princess Celestia moves back to the table from the window, smiling at everypony. She says, "I think that would please me very much, little ones."

The foals beam up at Princess Celestia before Scootaloo breaks out in a large yawn. Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom follow suit quickly after, the foals looking up at their big sisters with tired eyes.

Applejack says, "Alright, you three, time for bed. Say good night to the Princesses!"

Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo look up to Princess Celestia and Princess Cadance, saying together, "Good night Princesses!"

Applejack, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash take their foals out of the room. Princess Celestia takes another bite of her cake, finishing it off with a smile. She turns to Doug, "So, Doug, anything special going on with you?"

Doug shrugs, "Aside from this? Hmm; well, Rarity and I are planning a trip to the Badlands in the future. She wanted to stockpile a large number of the gems that are exclusive to that area, and we wanted to give the Ghastly Gorge area a rest, let it replenish a little."

Princess Celestia nods, "Oh? That sounds fun, it's been a long time since I've done any prospecting in that area." She puts a hoof to her chin, "Are you interested in a side job?"

Doug nods, "Sure. I think Rarity would be as well."

The rest of the herd returns to the room as Princess Celestia says, "Very well, I'll get back to you with the details." She looks to Applejack and Pinkie Pie, "Are you two ready to begin?" Pinkie Pie settles down next to Fluttershy while Applejack moves over to Doug, nuzzling him. He wraps one arm around her neck, pulling her close into a long kiss while the other arm wraps around her hind legs, getting a firm grip. He grunts into Applejack's mouth as he stands, carrying her to the blankets and pillows they have set up.

Fluttershy nervously looks at the mares around her, "Um, I guess we'll be leaving you then?"

Rainbow says, "Nah, I wanna watch." She winks at Doug, who rolls his eyes back at her. She settles down next to Princess Cadance, looking up at the alicorn with a cheeky grin. "So, Princess of Love, huh? You, uh, unhappy you weren't able to join?"

Princess Cadance smiles, "No, Rainbow Dash, I think it was for the best. After all, a certain unicorn caught my eye a little while ago, and trying to decide between a future with him or a future with foals was one of the hardest decisions I've had to make. Hopefully, if this works, I'll be able to have both." Rainbow nods, focusing on Applejack and Doug.

Rarity whispers to Fluttershy, "Come, dear, it's just the Princesses. Listen to me, talking about the Princesses like they are family!" She pauses a moment, "So, have you rethought your decision to hold off this year? I don't think it's too late."

Fluttershy gulps, but sits back down and shakes her head, trying to distract herself with anything in the room but what her stallion is doing. Normally it doesn't bother her too much, but this seemed a little... perverse, to be so intimate in front of others outside the herd. Rarity moves next to Princess Celestia, asking, "So, how exactly are you going to observe this?"

Princess Celestia smiles, "You know how a thaumic resonator works?"

Rarity nods, "The basic principles, at least; it displays an image of the thaumic energies that course through each of us, allowing us to use our magic."

Princess Celestia nods, "This spell is the basis of that invention; observe closely, let me know if you need further instruction." Rarity concentrates on the Princesses, watching their actions as their eyes glow with magic. The two focus on Doug and Applejack, circles of magic telescoping away from their eyes as they observe.

After a bit of time, Rarity unable to decide if it is longer or shorter than normal, both Princesses' eyes shine brightly. She focuses on her magical sense as well, her eyes taking on a similar, if duller, shine. She can see Applejack's magical core shining, though an inky blackness seems to be invading in areas. Slowly, the void recedes, withdrawing, though the absence in her core seems to linger, grasping at the dark as two lovers, dreading the inevitable separation. Rarity's sight returns to normal, Applejack and Doug recovering while the Princesses continue watching with glowing eyes.

Minutes turn to an hour, the Princesses vigilantly watching Applejack. Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy have fallen asleep, back to back with Rainbow laying with her head on Fluttershy's flank while Fluttershy is grasping one of Rainbow's outstreched wings as a pillow. Rarity is chatting with Doug about Princess Celestia's request while playing Go Fish with Applejack and Pinkie Pie. Suddenly Applejack's body starts glowing; she mutters, "What the?" as she looks around the room. She spots Princess Celestia's horn and eyes growing brighter and slowly relaxes. Princess Cadance's horn flares soon after, then both fade, the two alicorns smiling. Applejack tentatively asks, "Um, did y'all see what ya wanted to see?"

Princess Celestia says, "It is fascinating, watching a new life form before your eyes, especially with how different the two source materials are. It looks promising but I don't have a good enough understanding of the process yet. I'm afraid we must intrude on your hospitality a little longer."

Pinkie Pie hops to her hooves, "Alright, Dougie, let's do this thing!" as Rarity focuses on her magical sight, determined to watch the process from start to finish this time. Applejack nuzzles Doug as he gets up before she pats her belly, a contented look on her face.

Rarity watches as Pinkie's core, never the most put together, seems to break apart. The timing of it seems to have very little in common with the activity in front of her, as Rarity observes the interaction between Pinkie's aura and Doug's. The human's core seems to shift, sometimes transparent, where she can barely make out the lines defining it, and completely opaque, where she cannot make out Pinkie. She can also sense the two Princesses to her side, the nearly overwhelming auras restrained through sheer willpower.

Rarity again observes the two cores drifting apart, though when she briefly shuts her sight off the two look to have been finished for several minutes already. She turns the sight back on, concentrating now on Pinkie Pie as the mare gets up, moving to the two auras that are nearly on top of each other. Rarity gasps; she can also sense Applejack's new foal! Pinkie's swirling core moves slightly to the side, leaving a large space between her and Applejack. Rarity smiles; it must be Doug, laying between the two, probably rubbing their ears. Rarity settles back, content to watch Pinkie and wait for the moment the Princesses are so intent on understanding.

5 Review Closed

March 6th, 995

Applejack watches as Apple Bloom sits outside the farmhouse, focusing on the seed in her hoof. The flower she is working on will grow in the planter just outside the window of her room. However, it is slow going, and has been slow going ever since she started practicing. Apple Bloom doesn't seem to mind, but hopefully the unicorns have better news than the stalling responses they had given before.

Apple Bloom gives an excited squeal as another seed opens up, the green sprout beginning to come out of its coat. Applejack smiles, "Alright, Bloom, try to keep this one going, let it know that it is safe and it can keep growing."

Apple Bloom gives Applejack a confused look before looking down at the sprout in her hoof. "Ah'm sorry, big Sis, but Ah lost it already. Ah can try with the next one!"

Applejack smiles down, "Alright then, try it with that one. Make sure to plant this one first." Apple Bloom glances down at the sprout in her hoof, giving an embarrassed look as she digs a small furrow in the planter and places the seed inside, quickly covering it over with dirt. Applejack reminds herself to go over with Apple Bloom how to get the seeds to integrate themselves with the ground and surrounding magic, but it will need to wait until she gets home. "AB, Ah gotta head out to Ponyville. Doug is inside if you need him, alright?"

Apple Bloom looks up, the next unsprouted seed in her hoof, "Okay." Applejack gives Apple Bloom a quick nuzzle, the foal returning to her task before Applejack walks towards Ponyville. Professor Flintheart finally has some news for them. Good or bad, she is glad the wait and stonewalling is finally over, and she makes her way to Sugarcube Corner to meet him for lunch and hear the results.

Sugarcube Corner is bustling as always during the lunch rush, and Applejack looks around as she tries to spot Professor Flintheart. A cyan hoof starts waving at her from across the store, Rainbow Dash hovering a few feet in the air to make sure Applejack sees her. The earth pony walks over; Rarity, Professor Flintheart, and Sunset Shimmer are already seated and enjoying their meals. Applejack sits down, grabbing the muffin that Rarity slides over and looks at Professor Flintheart, "Afternoon, you two, girls. So, where are the other two unicorns? Flabbe or something?"

Sunset Shimmer smiles while Professor Flintheart stares impassively at her. He takes a breath before answering, "Applejack. The other two were not needed for this meeting, though Miss Shimmer wished to come along. Unfortunately, the tests that we ran have been inconclusive at best. The only course available for you and your foals is going to be continued practice. Have you noticed any improvement?"

Applejack looks over at Rarity and Rainbow Dash, the lack of reaction surprising her more than the news, "Did he tell y'all already?"

Her herdmates nod, Rainbow Dash adding, "Well, I figured that they'd tell us that they found something as soon as they figured it out. When we didn't hear anything, well, I kinda knew that it wasn't going to be good news."

Applejack slowly nods, her normal smile turning to a frown. She says, "Well, Ah guess Ah figured the same thing. Oh well."

Pinkie Pie lowers herself from the ceiling, looking at Applejack. The pink pony puts a hoof to her chin, studying Applejack's face. After a few seconds she says, "Applejack, something's wrong. You're smiling, but the rest of your body is upside down." Applejack stares blankly at Pinkie Pie before a hint of a smile starts breaking through her frown. Pinkie Pie smiles, "There it is! I knew there was something I was missing! Now your whole body is upside down!"

Pinkie Pie grabs hold of Applejack, spinning the mare so that they are both upside down. Applejack gets a worried look, "Uh, Pinkie, Ah think that-" before both ponies crash to the ground.

Professor Flintheart whispers to Rainbow Dash, "Is this a common occurrence around here?"

Rainbow Dash shrugs, continuing to eat her potatoes and fries sandwich, "Yeah, pretty much." The unicorn's scowl returns, going back to picking at his meal.

Applejack recovers, slowly getting up from the floor as Pinkie Pie leaps from the tangle of limbs to her normal posture. Pinkie Pie pronks back to the counter while Applejack clears her head, looking over at Professor Flintheart, "Well, to answer your question, Ah've seen some improvement. Ah haven't kept time or nothing; Apple Bloom does seem to be getting faster, but it's real slow going."

Professor Flintheart briefly glances at Sunset Shimmer before replying, "Continued practice and discipline should allow Apple Bloom complete access to her magic, though her low overall capacity may inhibit her from ever reaching the same potential as her peers." Applejack stares at Professor Flintheart for a few seconds before he says, "Do I need to explain that using smaller words?"

Applejack glares, "No, Ah understood you just fine. Ah just don't like what you're saying. You saying that Ah can't hold her to the same standards as everypony else on account of her condition?"

Professor Flintheart stares back at her, "No, but you may be disappointed by the results if you do."

Applejack gets up, "Ah'll be the judge of that." She glances over at Sunset Shimmer, her barely restrained voice saying, "Thank you two for your time. Good day."

Sunset Shimmer smiles and waves as Applejack leaves the building. Professor Flintheart sighs, looking at Rarity and Rainbow Dash, "If there is nothing else?" The two mares shake their head, Rainbow Dash continuing to eat.

Rarity pushes away from the table, "Thank you for your time, even if there was not something better for you to share. Have a pleasant afternoon, you two!" Rarity takes a napkin, wiping her lips before getting to her hooves.

Professor Flintheart gets up as well, nodding at the two still seated and exiting with Rarity. He says, "So, you were saying earlier about my wardrobe; what do you have in black?"

The two unicorns exit the store as Sunset Shimmer stares at Rainbow Dash. The pegasus gives her a weird look as the unicorn's eyes start shimmering with color. Rainbow says, "Uh, what are you doing?"

The light disappears from Sunset's eyes, returning to normal. She smiles at her, "Oh, just checking something. Rainbow, if there was something else that could be done for Scootaloo, something that only you could give, would you do it?"

Rainbow gives Sunset a hard stare, saying, "Sunset Shimmer, I would do anything for her. There is nothing I wouldn't give."

Sunset Shimmer smiles, getting up from her chair. "In that case, Rainbow, we'll be in touch." She gets in closer, "It might not be a good idea to tell anypony else." She backs up, waving, "Have a nice day!"

Back at the farmhouse, Doug is preparing a salad and sandwich for himself as Applejack walks in the door. He smiles, a jovial, "So, how was the meeting?" before he notices Applejack's downcast expression.

"Doug, what's gonna happen with the foals?" Applejack slowly walks over, nuzzling him in the chest as he strokes her mane.

Doug scratches Applejack behind the ears, "Did the doctors find anything?"

Applejack shakes her head, "No, and Ah'm worried, Doug. Worried that they won't be progressing with their magic, that they won't be able to find friends," she takes a deep breath, sinking lower into Doug's chest, "And..."

"And what, Applejack?" Doug tilts her head, looking into her green eyes.

"Well, you know how important family is to an Apple, right?" Doug nods, "Well, Ah'm afraid that nopony will want to, you know, be with them. That they'll be afraid, not of you, but of what will happen with their future foals. Ah'm afraid nopony will be able to look past that and love them for them, that they'll be so afraid of the potential problems their foals will have."

Doug holds Applejack tightly to his chest, "I'm afraid I don't have a good answer for that, Applejack. I hope that they will be able to find ponies that are able to see past their differences, just like you all see past mine."

Applejack nods again, tightening her grip around Doug's torso as she sobs into his chest.

6 Cheerilee

March 10th, 995

Another beautiful day in Ponyville; sun shining brightly, sky free of clouds, temperature just right, cool breeze blowing through town. Ponies walk about, getting last minute business done before the shops close up for the day, or just greeting each other, catching up after the day's work. Applejack, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, and their three foals walk along the road leading to the schoolhouse, waving at and greeting everypony as they walk by. They walk up to the front door, the awning above just low enough that Doug would have to stoop down if he came by. The columns on each side give the area a bit of grandiosity, just like the red brick and white stylized trim.

Applejack opens the door, the six filing into the one room building. Nine foal desks are arranged in the center of the room, giving the six ponies enough space to walk in and arrange themselves on the floor. They nod in greeting at the teacher standing behind the desk, a dark pink earth pony with rose hair. She greets them, "Hello! You must be the mares of Herd Apple; I thought I recognized you three. From the party last year!"

Applejack nods, "Eeyup, though Ah don't remember introducing myself then. Ah'm Applejack, and this here is Apple Bloom." Apple Bloom stares at the teacher, who looks back at her with a smile.

Rarity continues, "Yes, I do believe we met, though you haven't had the opportunity to meet my little one. This is Sweetie Belle." Sweetie Belle raises a hoof, waving at the teacher.

Miss Cheerilee smiles at Sweetie Belle as Rainbow Dash smirks, trying to contain her laughter, and says, "Yeah, we met as well. Scootaloo, say hello to Miss Cheerilee!"

Scootaloo sighs, annoyed at the forced pleasantries, and moves forward, "Hello, Miss Cheerilee."

Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom echo her, sounding much happier to be there, "Hello Miss Cheerilee!" Sweetie Belle continues, "How are you today?"

Miss Cheerilee smiles down, "I am doing well, Sweetie Belle. Are you ready for class to begin next week?" The three foals nod as Miss Cheerilee looks to the three mares, "Rainbow, what's so funny?"

Rainbow looks up at the ceiling as Rarity glares at the pegasus, "Oh, well, you know, um, you changed your hair!"

Miss Cheerilee nods, running a hoof through her styled mane. "Oh, you like it? I heard it is all the rage, it's so fun and frizzy!"

Rainbow laughs out loud this time, pointing at the jagged curls, "Yeah, like ten years ago!"

Rarity sternly says, "Rainbow Dash!"

Rainbow Dash says, "What? I wore my hair like that too, I just outgrew it! And it wasn't nearly that wavy!"

Rarity sighs, "Don't listen to her, Cheerilee, it looks really good on you. I just love how you styled your tail too, not many mares can pull off three distinct curls!"

Miss Cheerilee looks back, "Well, two of them do tend to run together, but I do what I can. Now, is there anything I can help you with before the start of the new year?" She steps away from her desk, walking over to the three foals.

Rarity gasps, "Oh, Cheerilee, your cutie mark! You got it! How did it happen?"

Miss Cheerilee smiles, looking back at her flank. She proudly displays the three smiling flowers, "Oh, this? I got it just last year, when I started working with some of the new foals. One of the families, the Rich herd, hired me to do a bit of tutoring for their newest two members. It was my first real job, they were really taking a chance on me, and now here I am!"

Rarity nods, "I can imagine that it was a very trying time before that happened. Were there not a lot of opportunities in Canterlot? I've heard they can be real sticklers for that sort of thing."

Rainbow Dash and the trio of foals are getting bored, Rainbow propping her head on her hoof and the foals starting to move restlessly back and forth. Applejack and Rarity listen intently as Cheerilee continues, "Oh, well, not for a young mare without her cutie mark. You wouldn't believe the competition for any sort of position, even entry level jobs! I was still going to class, and wasn't really able to find a lot of work there. I came to Ponyville on a whim, and was able to connect with a few of the families. After I went back to Canterlot, well, the other students there were nice, I suppose, but they really didn't care. They could be a little cliquish sometimes, you know? I went back for a little after I got my cutie mark, to attend one of the parties, and you would not believe who was there!"

Gasping, Rarity asks, "Who? Who was there?" as Rainbow Dash pulls out a set of cards and moves to one of the nearby desks. The foals gather around her, Rainbow laying the cards face down on the floor.

Cheerilee suppresses a squeal, "Princess! Cadance!" Applejack and Rarity glance at each other, "I mean, most of the other students were treating her as if she was just an ordinary student, but I couldn't help but watch her for a little, you know? She seemed so distraught, like she was really worried about something, but there was this flicker of hope, you know?"

Applejack stammers, "Wow, seeing the Princess, that must have been, something, right?"

Rarity adds, also stammering, "Yes, it must have been the highlight of your... school year? party?"

Cheerilee grins as the foals start flipping pairs of cards, looking intently at them before flipping them back over. She says, a lovestruck look in her eye, "Well, there was this stallion there as well, Buck Withers, and he glanced at me, but he seemed interested in the Princess, too! But, why would he want me in his herd, when he can have half the cheerponies?" Cheerilee sighs, "There don't seem to be too many eligible stallions here, either. But, now that I have my cutie mark, the market should be wide open, right?"

Rarity giggles, looking over at Applejack; the earth pony sighs, "Yeah, Ah had the same problem for a long time, too. Like you said, not a lot of stallions around here, especially not many that are interested in farming as much as Ah am. But who knows? Ah'm sure the right stallion is out there for ya, just have to start looking."

Cheerilee nods, smiling at the two, "Well, I suppose we should get back to the topic at hoof. How are your foals doing?"

The three mares look back; Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom have small piles of cards next to them, Scootaloo has four cards, and a sour faced Rainbow Dash has zero. Applejack laughs, "Good job there Dash, letting the foals win. That's so kind of you." Rainbow Dash sticks her tongue out at Applejack as the foals laugh, declaring the game a tie and picking the cards up. They move over, the foals sitting in a line in front of their dams, as Applejack explains, "Well, you met Doug before, and know these foals are his. Because of his unique nature, each foal has some... difficulties with magic."

Miss Cheerilee nods, "Well, since most of the students here are earth ponies, and some pegasi and unicorns, we won't be focusing a lot on magic use during the classroom time. I will, of course, be helping unicorn foals with magic as best I can, but the school policy is to hire a unicorn tutor if further instruction, beyond what I can provide, is needed. Same for pegasus students, if additional instruction is needed, either as supplemental to the textbook or if they want to further enhance their studies while here."

Applejack nods, "That makes sense. You know what the next class will be made up of?"

Cheerilee nods, "Three unicorns, three pegasi, and seven earth ponies. We may end up breaking the class into two groups, depending on attendance and if anypony joins or moves out, but we'll see."

Rarity says, "Well, it has been very nice meeting you, Miss Cheerilee, but I need to return to the Boutique. Do come by if you need help with your mane, or you want to accessorize! I love your anklet!"

Miss Cheerilee smiles, closing her eyes, "Thanks Rarity! It's just so colorful and fun!" She holds our her leg, jingling around the rainbow anklet. She looks between Applejack and Rainbow, "Well, if you two don't mind, I would like to spend a little time with your three, get to know them a little better."

Applejack nods, "Sure thing. Ah'll send Doug by in a bit, he'll come pick them up. Have fun you three!"

Apple Bloom waves, "Bye Sis!" before the other two foals glare at her. Apple Bloom hunches down, smiling, as the three mares walk out the school. Miss Cheerilee settles down on the floor, looking at the three foals staring up at her, "So, what was that game you were playing with Rainbow Dash?"

Apple Bloom bounces to her hooves, moving over to the deck of cards. "It's a remembering game Daddy taught us. You put all the cards with the numbers down, and then you flip a card. If you flip another card with the same number you get to keep them, and then it's the next ponies turn. If you don't get the same number then you flip the cards back over and the next pony gets to go."

Sweetie Belle adds, "Sometimes Daddy likes to make it harder, where we have to match both the number AND the color, but we don't like that one as much, it's too hard."

Scootaloo finishes laying the cards down on the floor. She flips the first card, a five, and the second card, a prince, and flips them over. Sweetie Belle flips a princess, then a second prince, and sighs, flipping them both over. Apple Bloom quickly flips both princes, taking the two cards and looking at Miss Cheerilee. The mare smiles, flipping over a one and a noble. Apple Bloom points at the one as Miss Cheerilee flips her cards over, "Daddy calls that one an ace sometimes. He mixes the names up. Miss Cheerilee, what's a queen and king?"

Miss Cheerilee says, "Well, you know how the Princesses are the rulers in Equestria?" The three foals nod, watching her, "In other areas, like the griffons, they are ruled by a king. A queen is the female version of a king."

Sweetie Belle flips over her princes, "Daddy likes to call the prince a queen, and nobles jacks. I guess it makes sense, if that's the kind of place he grew up in, with a king instead of the princesses. But why wouldn't the queen be the highest card, instead of the king?"

Miss Cheerilee puts a hoof to her chin, "Maybe he came from a place that was ruled by stallions? The griffons can be like that as well, and sometimes the yaks."

The three foals nod before Scootaloo flips over a five. She stares at the cards for a little before flipping over a two, sighing disappointingly. Sweetie Belle flips over the two fives, taking the cards and saying, "Come on, Scoots, you knew that one."

Scootaloo whines, "Yeah, well, I got distracted talking about the cards." She mouths words as she points her hooves at various cards, Apple Bloom flipping two tens in a row. "Lucky."

Apple Bloom shrugs, looking at Miss Cheerilee, the four continuing their game.

About an hour later, a knock comes on the door, opening to reveal Doug. He ducks through the doorway, able to stand once he is inside the room. He looks at the four ponies, sitting on the floor, each holding a hoof of cards. He says, sitting down next to Miss Cheerilee, "So, what game are we playing now?"

Scootaloo says, "Go Fish. Apple Bloom, do you have any ones?"

Apple Bloom shakes her head, "Go fish."

Scootaloo sighs as Miss Cheerilee says, "So, Doug, what other card games do you know?"

Doug shrugs, "A few. One of my favorites growing up was Bridge, but that one might be a little too complicated for these three. Another one, ERS, would be right up their alley."

The three foals eyes light up, them chorusing, "A new game! Yey!" Each throws their cards into a pile, pushing them towards Doug and looking up at him expectantly.

Doug sighs, shuffling the cards together. Miss Cheerilee watches, enraptured by the way his hands hoofed - or would you say handled - the cards, mixing their order much faster than her method of swirling them around in a pile for a while. It is also fascinating to watch, as he deals each pony and himself ten cards, leaving the last two in the middle. What it would feel like to have those hands on her coat...

When the foals go to pick their cards up he says, "No, leave them there for now. So, the way this game works, it is a little like Conflict, but with a few twists. Each of us has a stack of cards in front of us, or our 'deck', that stays face down. You take the top card from your deck and play it face up to the center. We go around in a circle until a noble, prince, princess, or ace, I mean, a one is played. When that happens, the next pony has a number of chances to draw a face card of their own. A noble gives one chance, a prince two, a princess three, and an ace four chances. As soon as that pony plays a face card, then it is the next ponies turn to play. This continues until somepony runs out of chances. When that happens, the pony who last played a face card takes all the cards, putting them on the bottom of their deck, and then they get to start the next round. There are more rules, but we'll get to those after a few rounds."

The ponies play a few rounds, though Miss Cheerilee notices something odd; occasionally, when two of the same card is played in a row, his hand moves forward, but stops before it gets all the way to the pile. Other times, like when he plays a princess, he doesn't wait for the next pony to play before moving his hand out to the pile, waiting for them to flip over their three non-face cards, and takes the pile. He is also quick about placing the cards under his deck, but doesn't seem to be cheating, as he loses all three games they play.

Doug shuffles the cards for a fourth round, saying, "Alright, now we are going to add a new rule, to make it more interesting. This is called 'doubles' and the goal is to be the first pony to slap the pile of cards as soon as a duplicate card is played. In other words, if I play a five, and then Scootaloo plays a five, then the first person to slap the pile of cards gets to take the cards, regardless of whether or not they would have won the pile or not. If you slap when you shouldn't have, you have to put two cards on the bottom of the pile."

Each pony scoots closer to the area where they have been playing cards. The foals start practicing slapping their hooves against the center, the loud 'thwack' of hoof hitting hoof ringing through the schoolhouse. Miss Cheerilee whispers, "Are you sure that is such a good idea?" as the foals devolve into flailing at each other, saying 'Ah was first!' 'No, I was first!' and starting to wrestle each other, the cards forgotten.

Doug looks over at Miss Cheerilee before glancing down at his hand, a wry smile on his face, "Well, maybe not the best. Any ideas?"

Miss Cheerilee says, "Now, settle down, you three." The foals stop wrestling, moving back to their earlier positions. "Instead of slapping your hoof against the pile of cards, you tap your hoof against the floor in front of you. If we don't think there is a clear winner, of who tapped their hoof first, then we keep playing like there wasn't a double. Okay?"

The three foals settle down as asked, chorusing, "Okay," as they sit in front of their cards. Miss Cheerilee notes that Doug is extremely quick on tapping his fist on the floor, with Scootaloo a close second, though he slows down and intentionally lets the next few doubles go uncontested. The foals are even doing a remarkable job of playing fair, with very few arguments over who tapped their hoof first. Though ties are still contentious, the foals are generally gracious enough to let them slide. Until Doug slaps his hand almost exactly when a second noble hits the floor, on a very high pile of cards.

A second after his hand hits the floor Scootaloo slaps her hoof, looking in disbelief that Doug beat her. As he goes to take the pile of cards Scootaloo asks, "How did you know that noble was coming?"

Miss Cheerilee winks at Doug, "Now, you aren't cheating, now are you?"

The three foals come to their sire's defense, "No, Daddy wouldn't cheat!" as Scootaloo appends, "But, I still want to know how you slapped that fast. It's like you knew it was coming!"

Doug nods, "Well, if you must know, I count cards." At the foals' puzzled look he continues, "I remember what cards you all have picked up, and so I know which cards are coming after other cards. It's harder with five players, so I just try to remember where important cards like nobles and previous doubles are."

Miss Cheerilee readies herself for the inevitable, 'that's cheating!' but instead the foals ring out, "That's so cool!" Apple Bloom adding, "So, is that why ya want us playing these silly games with remembering things?"

Doug nods, "Well, yes, partially because I find them fun, and also because they teach mental skills like memory, quick thinking, that sort of thing."

The foals breath out a quiet 'hmm' before Scootaloo says, "Daddy, I don't think I'll ever get as good as you."

Doug ruffles the foal's mane, standing up and saying, "Well, it took me years of practice to get this good. I hardly expect the same from you three, give it time and patience." He looks over at Miss Cheerilee, smiling, Well, I think this is as good a time as any to stop. It's been good to see you again, Cheerilee. Looking forward to spending more time with you."

Miss Cheerilee nods, winking at him, "Maybe next time we get together you can teach me this 'Bridge' game."

Doug nods, ushering the three foals to the door, "Sure; find another pony you think would like to play, or I'll see if Pinkie Pie or maybe Fluttershy wants to play with me and Rarity. Have a nice day!"

7 Requisition a Pet

April 2nd, 995

Fluttershy's cottage is a stark contrast to the dark and foreboding trees of the Everfree Forest. Lying close to the border, the verdant thatching makes her home appear at first glance to be an actual house made from a tree. Dotting the landscape are burrows dug into the ground, some reinforced with custom hoof-made habitats, and others dug by some of the more enterprising creatures. A babbling brook flows past the front yard, a dirt covered wooden bridge along the path to her front door. Birds are flying around, heralding the morning as they flit between the various feeders.

Sitting out in the front yard are the two front runners, the two animals that after a long amount of consideration Fluttershy thinks will make the best pets for her herdmates. Fluttershy smiles to herself as the birds above sing their choruses, relishing the feeling of a job well done. Rarity will be so happy. The unicorn has been very specific as to what kind of pet she will allow into her house. She wants a pet that will be able to help her around the store, fetching materials for her, and even give her advice as to how her designs look. And, just as a bonus, her little white face matches Rarity's coat so well!

Fluttershy looks to the other pet, destined for Applejack. The farmpony has been a little apprehensive about having an animal helping out around the farm. Instead, she wants a pet to help her relax, won't need a lot of care, but also one who will help with the critters when Fluttershy isn't able to come over. Her coat doesn't match Applejack's nearly as well as Rarity's new pet does, but fortunately Applejack won't mind. Why, Applejack will appreciate how independent and free-spirited her new pet is!

"Come now, little ones. Let's go meet our new friends! I'm sure they are going to love you and take good care of you. Oh, they'll be so happy!" Fluttershy grins as she starts down the path to Ponyville, her two companions following close behind. The long walk goes quickly, Fluttershy practically skipping down the road to the Carousel Boutique. She opens the door, the bell above chiming merrily. Rarity peeks out from behind a screen; she seems to be helping another pony with a dress, the unicorn merely smiling at Fluttershy before going back to her work.

A few minutes later and Rarity's work is complete, the earth pony customer thanking her and carrying her dress outside. Rarity moves over to Fluttershy, "Darling, good to see you! How are things?"

"Oh, things are going very well, Rarity. I brought a friend who will be very happy to see you!"

Rarity smiles as Fluttershy turns, revealing her new pet. Rarity gasps, "Oh, she's so precious! Aww, who's a good girl? Yes you are!"

Winona gives a short bark, grinning madly, her tongue panting out. Rarity moves over, nuzzling the dog who happily licks her face. Rarity giggles, smiling as she says, "Oh, Fluttershy, she's perfect!"

Fluttershy nods, "Winona sure seems happy to see you, too, Rarity! I brought over a bag of food for her, to get you started, just let me know if you need help with anything."

Rarity moves over, giving Fluttershy a hug before moving back to Winona. "Alright, girl, a few commands. Sit." The dog sits down, staring at Rarity and panting. Rarity smiles at Fluttershy, "And well trained, too! Thank you again, Fluttershy!"

Fluttershy nods, replacing her saddlebags on her back. "You're very welcome. Have a good day, you two!" Fluttershy smiles to herself; she just knows Applejack will love her new cat as much as Rarity loves her new dog!

Rarity holds up a dress, "Now, Winona, what do you think of this dress?" Winona gives a happy bark and nods her head, Rarity nodding along with her, "Oh, yes, I do believe this one is very good, but it needs some sort of accessory. Which of these two ribbons goes better with it?"

Rarity levitates over two ribbons, looking at Winona. The dog sits there, staring at Rarity before she says, "Oh, you think I should decide?" The dog continues staring at Rarity, who cocks her head to the side, examining the ribbons, "Hmm. You don't like either ribbon, and instead I should use this bracelet?" As she levitates the bracelet Winona gives a happy bark, Rarity grinning, "Oh, yes, that will be perfect! Who's a good girl?"

Fluttershy walks through the streets of Ponyville, humming a tune to herself. A few other ponies seem to join in, humming along, tapping their hooves, but Fluttershy shies away. Oh, what if she messes up the song? And the other ponies will see her sing, and...

Fluttershy nervously glances around, sighing to herself. Even when she is doing so well, she still doesn't have the confidence to lead a song. Well, maybe she can rehearse it with her birds a few times?

Fluttershy glances back at Opalescence, the cat napping in her saddlebags. Yup, a perfect companion for Applejack, a pet to help remind the hard working earth pony to slow down and relax. Fluttershy spots Applejack sweating while she works in the east orchard; she makes her way over, gently coaxing Opal out of the bag. She hovers over, holding the grumpy cat in her front hooves and saying, "Good morning, Applejack!"

Applejack wipes her brow, looking over at Fluttershy, "Oh, hey 'Shy! Who is this?"

Fluttershy sets Opal down, the cat looking disdainfully at Applejack. "This is Opalescence, or Opal."

Applejack moves over, looking at Opal. "So," she starts, "You like apple trees?"

Opal stares blankly at Applejack.

Applejack says, "How about... apple buckin?"

Opal lifts a paw, licking it.

Applejack puts a hoof to her chin, "Apple baskets?" before looking at the baskets scattered around, some full of apples.

Opal turns her head, rubbing her paw against her face and moving it from side to side.

Applejack looks over at Fluttershy, "You sure about this?"

Fluttershy nods, "Oh, yes, I'm sure you two will find lots of things you have in common."

Applejack turns; Opal has taken a perch on top of an overturned apple basket, napping in the morning sun. "Aww, look at her. So purdy."

Opal opens one eye, glaring at Applejack, before closing her eye and looking away. Fluttershy removes a bag from her saddlebag, "I'm sure you have plenty of food around here, but Opal can be a little particular with the kind of food she eats. I included some instructions as well."

Applejack nods, "Eeyup. Ah'm sure Ah'll figure it out. Thanks for everything, and have a good day, 'Shy!" Applejack looks over to Opal, saying to herself, "Low maintenance, exactly the thing Ah need around here. Now, where did Apple Bloom run off to?"

Fluttershy smiles, waving cheerfully as she walks back to her cottage. Along the path, Mr. Robin flies up to her, chattering excitedly. Fluttershy peers up, "But, Mr. Robin, we just got the new nests in. What do you mean they are broken?" At Mr. Robin's twitter, she picks up her pace.

Fluttershy shakes at the destruction in front of her: twigs scattered carelessly across the ground, the remnants of several of the nests that Rarity had made during Winter Wrap Up. Ribbons litter the area, their colorful corpses a stark contrast to the green and brown of the ground. A flock of birds, many different colors, are flitting back and forth around one of the trees, one she knows Mrs. Robin has made her home in.

"Excuse me?" Fluttershy tentatively asks, looking around, "What's going on here?"

Fluttershy gasps as she sees a nest soar from the tree, still containing two white eggs. She dashes forward but her haste is unnecessary, as ten of the birds beat her to it and gently bring the nest to the ground. Mrs. Robin chitters thankfully at the birds, before turning her attention back to the tree and flying into the branches.

Fluttershy takes to the air, rage on her face as she spots the perpetrator, a fat black bird with a red head. She Stares at the turkey, shouting, "Excuse me! You Do Not, I Repeat, You Do Not Knock A Nest Out Of A Tree!"

The turkey looks blankly back at her, unfazed by her Stare, merely gobbling unintelligibly. He shifts back and forth on the branch, casually making his way to the next nest in his way. Fluttershy gasps, this nest containing three eggs, and she swoops to grab it just before the turkey kicks the nest out of the tree. She turns, glaring at the turkey, "Excuse me!"

The turkey gobbles again, turning around and raising his tail feathers. Two of the three female turkeys fly up next to him, enough space on the branch for each of them to sit. They stay there, staring at each other as Fluttershy puts the nest on the ground next to the other one. She flies back up, "Now, listen here, Mr. Turkey, just because you are bigger than the other birds doesn't mean you can boss them around." The turkey sits there, staring past Fluttershy at one of the other branches.

She slowly flies closer to the bird, "You need to be able to share the trees with the other birds." She looks around, motioning to the various trees, "There is lots of space for everypony here, you just need to find a nice, unoccupied branch for you and your harem."

The turkey lunges at Fluttershy, spreading its wings and letting loose a loud warble. Fluttershy shrieks, flying away faster than she has ever flown before. She glances back; the turkey is still on the branch, preening its feathers.

Hours later, Doug walks by the road to Fluttershy's house, a backpack jingling with metal on his back. He spots Fluttershy by the stream, the yellow pegasus staring into the water. As he gets closer he says, "Hey 'Shy, Rainbow said you wanted to see me?"

Fluttershy nods, still staring into the water. She sighs, "Yes. I don't know what to do, Doug, I'm at my wits end." A wing spreads out, hovering over the water while dark shapes move back and forth. "There are a few new birds, and they aren't playing well with the others." The wing briefly dips into the stream, flicking back out with a cascade of water. "They don't listen to me, and I just can't seem to get them to leave the other birds alone." She moves to the fish, now out of the water and flopping back and forth, picking it up with her mouth. "I jus' don' kno' wha' oo do." She casually bashes the fish's head again a rock, the flopping stopping immediately. Fluttershy sighs, the fish dropping from her mouth as she moves back into position. "What do you think I should do?"

Doug stares at the fish, then back to Fluttershy as she repeats the process with a second fish. He asks, "So, what are the fish for?"

"Oh, they're a house warming present for Harry, he decided to move in to the house we made for him. Would you like to meet him?" Fluttershy gathers both fish in her mouth, starting to walk towards the Everfree.

"Sure, I guess. Never met a bear before, well, outside of a teddy. As far as the birds... what kind of birds are they?"

" 'urkey."

The two make their way to the one room house, nestled between two trees and covered in dirt and grass. Fluttershy moves up, knocking on the door with a hoof. The door opens, revealing a large brown bear, as tall as Doug but easily five times his weight. He is wearing an apron, and gives a toothy smile at seeing Fluttershy. Doug gives a nervous wave, the bear loping up to him and embracing him in a hug.

Doug does his best to hug back before the bear releases him, Fluttershy saying, "Hello Harry, this is my stallion, Doug. He helped build you this house!" The bear gives a grateful roar, giving Fluttershy a hug before picking the fish off the ground. Fluttershy asks, "Do you need anything else?"

The bear looks behind him at the room; it is enough space for him to move around, with a few pillows in one corner and a picture of Fluttershy smiling on one wall. He looks back to Fluttershy, holding his paws about a foot apart before moving them to about two feet apart. Fluttershy looks at him, "You want more space?" The bear shakes his head, then nods his head, grunting. Fluttershy nods her head, "Ohh, you will need space once you find a lady friend." The bear nods, Fluttershy grinning at him, "Well, just let me know when that happens, I would be more than happy to help you expand your home."

The bear smiles again, waving one of his paws at the two. Fluttershy and Doug wave back, turning to a different section of the forest. Doug asks, "So, what's your policy on harming animals?"

Fluttershy looks up at Doug, puzzled, "I would never harm an animal. Why would you think that?"

Doug shrugs, "Well, you killed two fish, for Harry. What differentiates those fish from birds, or ponies?"

Fluttershy looks back towards Harry's home, "Hmm. I never really thought about it; I just would never want to harm something that has a name. And those fish, while alive, don't think enough to talk or have names."

Doug makes a circular motion with his hand, "And if these turkeys don't talk to you, or have names..."

Fluttershy looks up at Doug, "Are you suggesting that we... kill the turkeys?"

Doug flips one of his hands over, palm raised upwards, "Well, if you can't reason with them, and they don't respond to anything but force, then it sounds like that or give up the tree and wherever else they decide to roost."

Fluttershy looks apprehensive, "But, I'm not sure, that seems wrong, somehow." The two make their way to the clearing, Fluttershy again gasping at the carnage ahead of her. The two nests containing eggs are no longer in one piece, one of the hens ripping a nest apart. Fortunately none of the eggs can be seen, broken or otherwise, as Fluttershy rushes forwards. "Stop!" she yells as she approaches the hen, the bird not seeming to care as it continues ripping. "What are you doing?"

The tom leaps off its branch, yelping at Fluttershy as she backs off. He continues approaching, wings flaring from his body and tail sticking straight up. He charges after Fluttershy as the mare turns and flees, briefly taking to the air as she flies up. The loud clap of metal on metal briefly startles the tom; he turns, looking down at the new aggressor and charging again.

Doug watches the bird come towards him, raising a hammer in one arm and wondering how stupid this bird is. Once it gets in arms reach he swings, missing the head but impacting the body. The turkey putts in alarm, trying to get away. Doug is quicker, swinging again and braining the turkey, the limp body falling to the ground. Doug moves over, grasping the neck and twisting as Fluttershy cautiously moves close to him. "Is it... over?"

Doug nods, "For him, yes." He looks over at the rest of the hens, the three seemingly uncaring at the fate of their tom. Two are roosting in the tree and the last continues shredding the nearly destroyed nest on the ground. Doug sighs, pulling out a blade, making his way to the hen on the ground, "Well, I hope you don't mind blood on the grass," as the various robins and jays sing happily.

8 Breach

April 8th, 995

Sunset Shimmer scowls as she trots down the hallway leading to the Canterlot Archives. It is almost as if Princess Celestia knows what she is up to, and deliberately gives her these assignments to waste her time. She smirks to herself; maybe she should just take up residence in the library itself. It will make it easier to cut that time sink known as 'making friends', no matter how much Princess Celestia insists that it is important.

Sunset nods to the guard pony on duty outside the library, receiving a curt nod in reply. She nods to the librarian at the front desk; if the moon outside is any indication her shift is almost up and she is ready to go to bed. Perfect. She walks up to the librarian, "Oh, hey, I was going to do a little late night research. I'll be in the Star Swirl wing!"

The librarian yawns, waving her purple hoof and returning to the scroll she is perusing. Sunset walks past, doing a quick check to see if any other ponies are in the area. Seeing none, she moves over to the clearly labeled 'Restricted' section. She glances around before her horn lights up and her eyes glow. She makes her way into the Dark Magic area, slipping past the sleeping librarian.

The web of enchantments protecting the spells are child's play for Sunset, the amber unicorn slipping through. She quickly locates the spellbook in question, containing some of the darker magics known to ponykind. Sunset takes a deep breath and mentally focuses, knowing that the course ahead for her is a dangerous one, no doubt about that. The knowledge contained in this spellbook will earn her a place in the history books, though as a villain or a genius will depend on how well she can manipulate the spell in question. She takes another look at the book in her hoof, quickly paging through until she comes to the section on centaur magic. She makes a few notes on her papers before copying the spell, slipping the papers into her saddlebags.

Once she has completed this research, and shown Princess Celestia what her power is capable of, the Princess is sure to acquiesce to her demand to become a Princess. Then, with the full abilities of an alicorn, she will be able to show the true meaning of power as she twists these dark spells to their true purpose.

She sighs; Princess Celestia really needs to put better safeguards on these areas. Though, once her research is complete, and she has earned her place among the Princesses, there will be no need to guard them. She replaces the spellbook, slipping back out through the web of spells before removing any trace of her presence. As she walks past the empty desk she gathers a few other books, to disguise her true intentions, and makes her way back out of the library.

Sunset Shimmer nods to the guard, the librarian's replacement waving goodbye to her, as she leaves the library. She takes a few steps outside before coming to a stop; walking down the hallway is Princess Celestia herself. She quickly bows her head, saying, "Hello, Princess Celestia, what brings you to the library tonight?"

Princess Celestia looks at Sunset Shimmer, a frown initially on her face. It turns to a smile as she says, "Good evening, Sunset Shimmer. I was curious what the library had to do with my latest assignment, but I can see you have other activities on your mind." Sunset gulps before glancing to the titles of the books she is openly carrying; 'The Manners of Minotaurs', 'Recent Earth Pony Settlements', and 'Farming for Non-Earth Ponies'. Princess Celestia continues, "So, how have your visits to Ponyville been going? Well, I trust?"

Sunset mentally rolls her eyes; of course Princess Celestia would make a connection between the random books she is carrying and her activities in Ponyville. She stammers, "Oh, Princess, they have gone... very well! I do believe I'm learning a lot about friendship!"

Princess Celestia laughs, "Well, don't go learning about friendship too quickly, understand? Some things need to grow and bloom in their own time. But, it doesn't hurt to get a little bit of a head start in our studies, hmm?"

Sunset laughs nervously, forcing a smile to her face, "Oh, um, okay! I'll be sure to keep it, you know, slow. No need to rush anything!"

Princess Celestia nods, winking at Sunset. The alicorn turns, walking down the hallway. Once she is out of sight a smile creeps over Sunset's face. Now, where would be a good place to start her research? And not just on the spell, there is a mirror that will serve as an excellent back up plan, should Tirek's spell go haywire. Sunset Shimmer teleports herself to her study, removing her notes from her saddlebags. She will need to disguise these, to keep any probing eyes from discovering what she intends.

Celestia sighs to herself as she turns the corner. She doesn't need her ability to sense connections between ponies, even if it isn't as strong as Cadance's, to tell there is nothing going on between Sunset and Doug, her student's woeful attempt at appearing in love giving away her deception. The books she has taken from the library come from the path to the restricted section, Celestia's subtly buried spell alerting her and making the librarian's warning superfluous but still appreciated. What will it take to get Sunset Shimmer to keep from straying from the path? Maybe another attempt at getting Sunset to acknowledge the importance of friendship; maybe if she has another student offer their aid? Or should she attempt to push Doug and Sunset together?

She shakes her head; Doug won't go for it. The human could be frustratingly stubborn in his ways, and she doesn't feel like she has a perfect read on him. Well, he might go for it if Sunset initiates, but there is as much a chance of that happening as Sunset sincerely completing one of her assignments on friendship. Well, there is little to do now but wait and see what Sunset Shimmer intends to do with the magic located in the restricted section.

Celestia continues back to the throne room, making sure that everything else is proceeding normally. She needs to prepare for another slow session of the Night Court, the nobles still not acquiescing to her request to desegregate the Day Court and Night Court. No, the nobles, the governors, the lawmakers, they just have to have their precious time in the sun to themselves, and make the other 'common' ponies stand in line during the night. No matter; she likes the Night Court more anyway, at least the ponies that come have real problems that she can help with.

9 Bridge

April 10th, 995

"No, Diamond Tiara, you have to leave the cards turned over."

"Ugh, but that makes it hard! Why does this game have to be so difficult!"

Miss Cheerilee forces a smile on her face, watching the two foals argue, "Come now, girls, you know the rules."

Diamond Tiara squats down, folding her forelegs in front of her chest. She huffs, looking over the cards before massaging her head, "But I don't remember which card was the other four!"

Silver Spoon patiently explains, "Well, but that's the point of the game, right Miss Cheerilee? We're supposed to work on 'membering which cards are where."

Miss Cheerilee nods, "Yes, Silver Spoon, that's correct." The gray earth pony filly can certainly be precocious at times, quickly picking up the game Miss Cheerilee had introduced. Her magenta sister, Diamond Tiara, on the other hoof...

A high voice comes from across the room, "Tiara, dear, it is unbecoming of a Rich pony to whine. Learn the game as it is supposed to be played, and keep your comments regarding the difficulty to yourself." Diamond Tiara's dam, Spoiled Rich - an earth pony with a pink coat and dark purple mane - walks over to the three ponies, holding a tray of apple slices. She places the tray down, pointing a hoof at one of the cards, "But if you must know, it is this card here."

Diamond Tiara reaches over, flipping the card to reveal the missing four. The filly looks up, scratching her head, "I knew we flipped that card over before!"

Spoiled Rich nods, "Yes, it was the third card you flipped over."

Silver Spoon asks, "But, how did you remember that?"

Spoiled Rich lifts her head up, "A Rich lead must notice and remember everything, Silver Spoon. It would be wise to keep that in the front of your mind during your lessons." She glances at Diamond Tiara, "And it appears somepony else has been slacking in theirs. Diamond, after this game, report to Randolph for an extra thirty minutes of training before dinner."

Diamond Tiara huffs before saying, "Yes, Dam."

Spoiled Rich turns, "Make it forty minutes for the smart mouth."

Tears fill Diamond Tiara's eyes as Silver Spoon puts a comforting hoof on her. Randolph always makes her polish the really high silver when she is being punished, and now she wouldn't be able to get an ice cream with Silver Spoon! Well, she can just tell her sister to bring her a scoop, hopefully she can get it soon enough so it doesn't spoil her dinner.

The two fillies finish their game, Miss Cheerilee packing the cards up. Silver Spoon heads to the front door while Diamond Tiara goes off in search of their butler, Randolph. Miss Cheerilee sets the slippery cards on the designated end table before taking the empty tray to the kitchen. She remarks to Spoiled Rich, "You certainly have a very good memory, that was impressive."

Spoiled Rich nods, "Years of honing will do that. Where did you learn this game? Is it popular back in Canterlot?"

Cheerilee shakes her head, "I learned it from some of the fillies here." She glances over at Spoiled Rich, who is raising an eyebrow at her, "Are you interested in more like it?"

Spoiled Rich stares down her nose at Cheerilee, "Hmm, it seemed a little simple, but I suppose picking up a few more games the foals enjoy would be acceptable."

Cheerilee shrugs, "Well, he did mention one that would be too complex for the foals. Would you be interested in learning it with me? I was going to go over there once I finished here."

Spoiled Rich pauses a moment before saying, "Let me inform Filthy, then I suppose I shall come along." She turns, finishing her work in the kitchen before walking towards Filthy's study.

Cheerilee smiles, walking over to Silver Spoon and asking the filly, "So, did you like the game you were playing?"

Silver Spoon nods as they walk to the front door, "I liked how you had to remember things. I like that, but I don't think DT did as much," as the two walk out the door.

One ice cream cone, one ice cream to go, and one pleased and soon to be extra hyper filly later, Spoiled Rich and Cheerilee are walking down the main road of Ponyville. Spoiled Rich asks, "So, what is this game you were talking about?"

Cheerilee looks from side to side as they leave town, "Well, I don't really know, to be honest. It's called bridge, and I haven't heard of it before."

Spoiled Rich hums to herself, "No, I haven't heard of it either. Do you think it is a memorization game?" She does a double take as Cheerilee turns down the road to Sweet Apple Acres, "Which foals did you say were playing the game before?"

Spoiled Rich and Cheerilee walk to the main gate, "It was Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. Why?"

Spoiled Rich merely sighs, walking up the porch as Cheerilee knocks on the front door. Rarity opens the door, smiling at Cheerilee, "Welcome, Cheerilee, I hope you brought a... partner," she stammers as she notices Spoiled Rich. Rarity quickly forces a smile, opening the door further, "Would you two like any refreshments? We have apple juice, cider, orange juice, or something stronger."

Cheerilee says, "Apple juice, thank you," before Spoiled Rich says, "Some of your sweet cider, crackers and cheese if you have any."

Rarity nods, "Sure, I'll be right back; make yourselves at home in the dining room."

Spoiled Rich and Cheerilee make their way to the dining room, Doug's voice getting louder as he says, "Rarity? Are you ready, I thought I heard-" Doug stops in the doorway, looking between Cheerilee and Spoiled Rich. He says in a slow tone, "Voices. Miss Cheerilee, Spoiled Rich, I'm guessing you two are here to play Bridge?"

Cheerilee nods enthusiastically, saying, "Please, just Cheerilee is fine," as Spoiled Rich gives Doug a hard look. She takes her seat, a brief nod at Doug as Rarity enters the room with a tray of drinks, crackers, and cheese. She puts a plate of snacks in front of Doug and Spoiled Rich, a coaster and glass in front of each of them, and takes her seat. Doug takes the deck of cards on the table, saying, "So, either of you played Bridge before?"

Both pink mares shake their heads; Doug starts dealing the cards as he explains, "So, Bridge is played with a partner, two on two. Each of us starts with a hand of thirteen cards. Starting with one of the defenders or the pony who won the last trick, I'll get to who that is and how we figure it out later, we play cards in turn order. Each of us plays one card, following suit if able, and the high card wins. That is one 'trick', and then the player who played the high card leads the next one. The princess of the trump suit is the highest card, followed by the prince, the noble, ten, nine, eight, etcetera, with one of trump at the bottom. After that is the highest card of the suit that was lead - again, princess, prince, noble, with one again being the lowest."

Doug picks up eight cards, putting two face up in front of each pony. He quickly demonstrates the turn order, the high card winning, and that pony starting the next trick. "Alright, next up is following suit. For example, if somepony leads a club, and you have a club, you have to play a club. If you don't have a club, you can play any card that you want, but it won't win unless it is a trump card. The trump suit is determined at the start of each round, or hand, of cards. Actually, you'd probably call it a hoof of cards."

Rarity and Cheerilee shrug, Spoiled Rich staring at Doug impassively, as Doug taking a sip of his orange juice. "Bidding is probably the hardest part of the game, so for the first couple rounds we might just pick a suit and a declarer until we get a good idea of how to play."

Cheerilee asks, "What's a declarer?"

Doug nods, "Good question. So, the declarer is the pony who has picked the trump suit. They try to take as many tricks as they can. The declarer's teammate, or the 'dummy', places all of their cards face up, so that everypony can see them. The declarer then plays both their own cards and the dummy cards."

Spoiled Rich says, "Dummy sounds somewhat insensitive. Why do you call it that?"

Doug shrugs, "It's not supposed to be. The dummy just does whatever the declarer tells it to, it doesn't think for itself."

Spoiled Rich smirks, "Then shouldn't we call it a stallion?"

Doug and Spoiled Rich stare at each other, a worried look traded between Rarity and Cheerilee. A few seconds pass before a smile breaks out on Doug's mouth. He chuckles, slapping his hand against the table as Rarity and Cheerilee relax. Doug says, "Oh, that's a good one. Phew, yeah, we can call it a stallion."

Spoiled Rich smiles, "Glad to be of assistance. So, shall we get started?"

Cheerilee nods, "I'll partner with Rarity, since you two have played before."

Doug shrugs as Spoiled Rich says, "Fine with me." Rarity and Doug trade spots, Doug dealing the cards. He watches as each pony picks up the cards with their hooves, Rarity and Cheerilee methodically sorting their cards while Spoiled Rich glances at her cards. Doug takes a quick look at his own cards before he and Spoiled Rich set their cards down on the table, reaching for their respective plate of snacks.

Doug explains, "So, bidding. Whoever is to the left of the dealer starts the bidding. Since I dealt this hoof, that means Cheerilee starts the bidding. You and your partner are trying to communicate only through your bidding, telling each other what suits are your strong ones. A strong suit generally is one with five or more cards, preferably at least a prince as the high card, if not a princess. A strong hoof of cards would have five or so face cards, preferably in the suits you or your partner has bid. At the end of the bidding, the declarer, or the first pony to bid the suit that is the trump suit, tries to take six tricks plus the number that they bid. You generally start at one of the suit of your choice. Any subsequent bids must be a higher number of tricks and/or a higher suit. The suits, lowest to highest, are clubs, diamonds, hearts, spades, and then no trump before it cycles back. With no trump, I guess obviously, there is no trump suit. Think you have it?"

The ponies nod; Doug stands up, holding his empty plate. "Rich, would you like some more as well?" The mare nods, getting up and following him to the kitchen. Discussion about bidding strategies can be heard from the two while Rarity leans close to Cheerilee.

Rarity says in a low voice, "Cheerilee, um, it might not be my place, but why did you bring Spoiled Rich here?"

Cheerilee looks puzzled, "Um, she asked me about the game your foals were playing. I taught it to her foals, and they liked it; she seemed interested, and I still needed a partner, so I told her about this."

Rarity nods, "Okay, I understand that, but, do you not know what happened last year?" Cheerilee shakes her head, "Well, she organized a mob of ponies to run Doug out of town. She didn't think he could be trusted, and told ponies not to interact with him."

"Well, they seem like they are getting along now." Cheerilee looks towards the kitchen, "Are you saying they can't be friends?"

Rarity shakes her head, "No, I suppose not." Rarity glances back to the kitchen as well, "They are certainly doing better than I expected."

Cheerilee smiles, "I hope it works out between them. Now, how do I bid?"

"One method - Doug calls it the honor count - Face cards are worth points. Princess is four, prince three, noble two, ten is worth one. A void, or no cards in a suit, is three points, singleton two points. Unless it is the suit your partner bid. You can open, or be the first pony to bid, if you have fourteen points. Maybe less if you have a very long suit, such as seven hearts. You can respond to your partner with nine points, maybe eight if your strength matches theirs with three or more cards in the suit that they bid. Otherwise you pass." Doug and Spoiled Rich return to the room, Rarity continuing, "For now, I wouldn't bid more than two or three. When we get more comfortable with the game we can talk more strategy."

Cheerilee nods, the four sitting down at the table and starting to play. The schoolpony is the stallion the first hoof, able to watch and get a better understanding of the game as Rarity proceeds to make their bid of two, taking ten tricks in total. Rarity smiles when Cheerilee says, "Good job, Rarity! How did you know that Doug had the prince of spades?"

Rarity shrugs, "Well, I didn't, actually. It's called a finesse; if Doug has the prince, and he plays it, I take it with the princess. If he doesn't play it, then I can play my noble and the noble wins. If Spoiled Rich has the prince, however, it doesn't matter what I play. I take the trick with the princess and her prince is now the high card, or I play my noble and she takes it with the prince."

Cheerilee nods, looking down at the cards in front of her. She awkwardly picks them up, trying to imitate Doug and shuffle the cards. She looks up to him for guidance and he shrugs, looking over at Spoiled Rich and saying, "I have no idea how to tell her how to shuffle; you know?"

Spoiled Rich quips, "Leave it to a stallion to not know how to explain something," but nods, taking the cards from Cheerilee, "So, try to hold the cards loosely in your hoof. You don't want to hold them tightly, or it makes it harder to shuffle them together." She takes half the deck and demonstrates, a tiny amount of space between each card, "Do the same with both halves, and push them together. Repeat until you feel they are shuffled." She shuffles the deck again, passing the cards to Cheerilee.

Doug nods, "It still amazes me what you can hold with your hooves," as Cheerilee begins shuffling, able to keep the cards contained with each hoof.

"What, none of them have given you a hoof job?" Spoiled Rich smirks as Doug's eyes go wide and glances at Rarity. The unicorn looks back at him, shrugging her shoulders, the two looking back at Spoiled Rich. She takes her glass of juice, "Well, you should try it some time, Filthy really likes it." She takes a drink, putting the glass back on the table as a mortified Cheerilee begins dealing.

Spoiled Rich catches onto the game quickly, declaring the next hoof and smirking as she reminds Doug of his position as stallion. He takes it all in good humor, taking the opportunity to refresh everypony's drinks and greet Applejack as she walks inside, the three foals of Herd Apple close behind. The farmpony is more than a little surprised at Spoiled Rich's presence, Doug able to explain by the time the hoof is finished while he watches them play.

Doug sits back at the table as Applejack leads the three tired and dirty foals towards the bathroom. Spoiled Rich grimaces at the mess as Applejack walks up, towel across her back, and asks, "So, Mrs. Rich, you staying for dinner? You're more than welcome."

Spoiled Rich shakes her head, "Thank you for the offer, Applejack, but I need to head home. You know how important it is to have dinner with family."

Applejack nods, "Ah can understand that. It was good seeing you again!"

Spoiled Rich nods, "Indeed." She glances outside, the sun close to dusk, "I must be going. Rarity, Cheerilee, Doug, it has been a pleasure playing with you." She winks at Doug before walking to the door.

Applejack looks at Cheerilee, the mare still a little ashen-faced. Applejack says, "Cheerilee? You, uh, interested in staying for dinner?"

Cheerilee looks around, "Um, sure, I suppose. You need any help with the foals?"

Applejack shakes her head, "Fluttershy has them right now. Mare's been way more helpful around here, it's been nice." She walks into the other room, "Opal? What, did you not move at all from that spot? Come on, girl, let's get a move on."

Cheerilee tries to clear her head as Doug gets up, moving to the kitchen to begin dinner with Applejack while Rarity excuses herself to go check on the foals. None of the stallions back at Canterlot act like Doug, at least, none of the stallions that she considered asking out. Maybe a few of the geekier ones are willing to take barbs like he does, but what kind of self-respecting pony allows themselves to be insulted like that?

The foals are happy to see Miss Cheeriliee as Fluttershy leads them to the dinner table, Rainbow Dash showing up soon after. Applejack remarks, "Well, Rainbow, you'll never guess who came over today."

Rainbow Dash looks over at Cheerilee, "Um, Mayor Mare?"

Applejack shakes her head, "Spoiled Rich. Cheerilee brought her over as her Bridge partner, apparently the two had a pretty good time."

Rainbow glances between Doug and Cheerilee, "And?"

"Ain't saying anything. Just that they had a good time, and might be coming over more often. Or Doug and Rarity might go over to their place."

Rainbow gives Applejack a hard look before taking a bite of her salad. She chews slowly, her gaze unwavering from Applejack's eyes. She swallows, saying, "So, what, we're supposed to be friends now?"

Off to the side Rarity responds, "Well, no, not necessarily, but as Cheerilee remarked earlier, we shouldn't let one misunderstanding keep us apart forever."

Rainbow rolls her eyes, "Well, I have a piece of paper in my house that says otherwise. Do we expect her to just forgive Doug for being different and we all live happily ever after?"

Applejack shakes her head, "No, in fact Ah think the less we try to get a concession out of her the better. She expects us to try and canoodle our way out of it; if we just genuinely get to know them better and be friends then Ah'm sure it'll all work out."

Rainbow shrugs, "Well, keep thinking that," as she goes back to eating her meal. Applejack sighs; not having to worry about this feud with the Rich family would certainly be nice, if she thought that Spoiled could be trusted.

10 Burned

May 20th, 995

Rainbow Dash stares at the letter sitting in front of her. It had arrived with the rest of the mail Derpy brought, and Doug had tried opening it like every other letter, not bothering to check who it was addressed to. He is still nursing the burn on his fingers, and now Rainbow Dash is hesitant to touch it as well. She inspects it again; the letter is addressed to Rainbow Dash, right there in the center. Nothing else written on the front.

She cautiously moves a hoof forward, picking the letter up. Well, Doug had gotten this far too, and she turns the letter over. There is a very stylized mark, looking like an 'S' with a diamond on the upper half of the 'S'. There are two weird... legs coming off the bottom; Rainbow squints at it, turning her head one way and then the other. Maybe.. two other 'S's? Triple S?

Rainbow peers at the mark for a couple more seconds before tentatively moving her hooves to the top of the letter. She closes her eyes and pulls her hooves apart, the satisfying rip of paper and a lack of searing pain. She sighs in relief, opening her eyes to see a simple piece of paper laying on the floor. She looks at the destroyed remains of the envelope in her hooves, yelping as they both ignite. She drops the incinerating paper onto the wooden floor before realizing her dilemma and stomping on the paper with her hooves.

The material doesn't go out, and it fortunately also doesn't ignite the floor underneath. Rainbow sighs in relief as the flames extinguish, leaving a pile of ash, before noticing a similar char starting on the letter that was inside. She quickly snatches it up, blowing on the letter and taking to the air. The char continues spreading on the paper, so she hovers up, flying out the window and landing on the ground outside, trying to read the letter. Multiple ignition points make it difficult to read, as they are quickly destroying the message inside, and unfortunately all she can make out is:

'Rainbow Dash,
xxxxxxxxxxxxxyou today
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx for Scootaloo
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxe alone.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxer'

Rainbow Dash sighs as the paper finishes disintegrating in her hooves. Well, that isn't ominous or anything. She smiles to herself; somepony should really write a book about this. She imagines herself fighting off a horde of bad mares, her mysterious alter ego dodging blows while performing awesome moves. She would read books if they had action sequences like this!

She sighs, thinking back. Well, not much to do now but see how Doug is doing. Then take Scoots out for a little, give her a bit more to practice. Her filly is doing well at transferring her magic to all four of her hooves and standing on a cloud, now to make this a little more interesting.

Later in the afternoon, Sunset Shimmer looks around the Ponyville park. Her note to Rainbow had been very specific, she shouldn't have messed it up. Is she really not interested? She had sounded so sincere earlier, and Sunset is not going to be denied this chance to really prove herself. She smiles to herself; this, showing that Dark Magic could be turned to good uses, to help everypony to see how truly talented she is.

Sunset starts another lap around the park, passively scanning behind and around her. Nope, still no pegasus, waiting in the trees. The unicorn grits her teeth; no one stands up Sunset Shimmer! Her horn flares, burning the grass around her; might as well start searching. The direction she will start - Sweet Apple Acres. Well, Applejack, I hope your trees are ready.

The unicorn takes off at a canter, keeping the pace up until she is out of the park before slowing down. She looks down at her sides, breathing heavily; why can't there exist some spell to just get your body in shape? It's not like she can spare the time from her studies, the applications of magical theory far more important than being winded. She smirks to herself; after all, why run when you can teleport?

One burst of magic later, an exhausted Sunset Shimmer breaths heavily, looking out over rows upon rows of apple trees. Well, maybe that's why you don't teleport to a spot you barely saw from the train as you were riding by. At least the spell's safeguards would have kicked in if she had tried to teleport on top of something else, either the spell failing if it is magically shielded or displacing either the object or herself, whichever massed less.

Sunset grunts, concentrating again on locating Rainbow Dash. She frowns as she hears something off in the distance; the pegasus is at an angle she didn't expect, high up in the air. She turns, walking towards the magical aura she tagged when they first met. Rainbow Dash's potential makes her stand out like a sore hoof, which should make her plan even easier, once she gets the proper spellwork down. She forces herself to go slower; it wouldn't look right to be out of breath when they meet up.

Sunset can make out Rainbow before she sees her, the chant of "Right! Front! Right! Left!" echoing from above. Sunset walks past the last few trees to see Rainbow Dash yelling commands at Scootaloo, the foal standing on top of a cloud, high in the air. Well, standing is the wrong word; the foal is dancing from two hooves to two hooves as Rainbow calls out which hooves can touch the cloud and which are to be raised in the air.

Rainbow calls out, "Four!" and Scootaloo plants all four hooves on the cloud, readying her body. Rainbow shouts, "Zero!" and Scootaloo leaps into the air. She briefly flaps her wings, barely affecting her momentum, as Rainbow waits till the last instant to yell, "Front!" and Scootaloo shifts her body, landing on her front hooves. They barely pierce into the cloud before her body rebounds, the foal landing on all four hooves on the cloud.

Rainbow nods, "A little sloppy on the last landing, but you're progressing much better. Now, passive mode. You'll need to be able to nap on a cloud, and so far that's been a little bit of a struggle. So, do you want the cushion?" Scootaloo shakes her head no, and Rainbow smiles, "Good. Alright, lay on the cloud, let's get started." Scootaloo bends her legs, shifting around to get comfortable.

Scootaloo rests her body, breathing heavily as she lays on the cloud. She closes her eyes; she can feel the cloud under her hooves and pushing against her barrel. She loves the softness, the way the cloud formed against her, holding her up, cuddling her like-

Scootaloo opens her eyes, confused at the sky surrounding her. She rotates around, seeing the ground coming up at her at an alarming rate. A voice to the side says, "Alright, Scoots, you find yourself falling. What do you do?"

Scootaloo shudders, "Big sis?"

The voice says, "I'm here if you need me, Scoots, but I'm not going to be here every time. What else do you have?"

Scootaloo beats her wings, trying to force her magic into her wings and slow her descent. The ground turns to sky as she begins tumbling, continuing her free fall to the ground. Tears form in her eyes as she cries, "Mama, I can't, I need you!"

A split second goes by before Scootaloo feels hooves gently grab her sides, stopping her tumble and slowing her fall until she feels herself gently gliding, the apple trees getting larger at a comfortable rate. She closes her eyes, burying her face in her dam's chest as she cries, still shaking from the fall.

Rainbow Dash sighs to herself; she hadn't meant for Scootaloo to fall through the cloud, she thought the foal is doing better than that. She holds Scootaloo close to herself, "Hey, Scootaloo, it's okay, I got ya." She hovers over the ground before a cough from behind startles her; Scootaloo opens her eyes as Rainbow turns, spotting Sunset Shimmer. Rainbow says, "Oh, hey Sunset. Can I help you?"

Sunset watches Scootaloo as the foal closes her eyes, starting to relax. She says, "Yes, Rainbow Dash. Did you happen to get a letter today?"

Rainbow shrugs, turning and slowly rubbing a hoof along Scootaloo's back, "Yeah; it burned Doug, and then lit itself on fire before I could read it. Why?"

Sunset mentally facehooves; of all the incompetent ways... well, at least it is easily fixed. "Oh, Rainbow, I'm sorry, I was testing a new spell and must have made it too fast." She smirks; that'll be sure to get under her coat.

Sure enough, Rainbow turns, a quick glare before she looks back to Scootaloo, saying, "Yeah? What of it?"

Sunset does a quick scan, making sure nopony else is nearby. Satisfied, she says, "Well, I wanted to talk to you about what we would be doing. Get an idea for what you are willing to do."

Rainbow scoffs, "I thought I told you that already." She lands, letting Scootaloo down, the foal looking up at her dam with teary eyes. Rainbow gently prods the foal with one hoof, and Scootaloo takes off towards the practice area.

Sunset shrugs; once Scootaloo is out of earshot she whispers, "Well, some mares might balk at the talk of a little... dark magic."

Rainbow turns, a hard look in her eyes. She studies Sunset for a few seconds before saying, "I'm listening."

Sunset Shimmer says, "Well, it won't be that dark. At least, not how we're using it. Have you heard of the name 'Tirek'?" Rainbow Dash shakes her head, a grin forming on Sunset's face, "Well, no matter. I'm going to need to do a bit of research into the spell. Make it... safe. It might take some time, just so you know."

Rainbow stares, eventually shrugging, "Whatever. Let me know when it's ready." She turns back, watching Scootaloo as the foal moves over to a low level cloud, settling on top of it and relaxing her face and body, this time staying on top. Rainbow says, "Alright Scoots, that was a good try earlier. There's a saying I grew up with, I want you to take it to heart: 'When the going gets tough, the tough don't notice, because they have hard shells.' So, I know this can be hard, and frustrating, and you might feel like quitting, but we need to build up that toughness. You can do this! We're going to start off with pushups on the cloud; let me know if you need anything."

Sunset glares at Rainbow's back, fuming as she walks away. If this didn't earn her those wings...

11 Summer Celebration

July 1st, 995

Pinkie Pie prowls around the Summer Sun Celebration, making sure her party is in order. It won't do to have an incident under her watch! She glances left, then right, then left again; still no ponies acting out, no disturbances, just fun. Too much fun! Wait, can you have too much fun? Pinkie Pie puts a hoof to her mouth; she is getting a little hungry, and she doesn't like patrolling on an empty stomach! Or on a half full stomach, she smiles to herself, rubbing her pregnant belly. Pinkie Pie disappears behind a trash can, reappearing inside one of the bushes near the food.

Lots of ponies are milling about, walking one way or the other. More ponies are seated at the tables spread out, enjoying their meals from the scattered booths. Doug is stationed at the grill, trays of food displayed on a few of the park benches around him. Pinkie Pie moves forward, trading waves with Doug as she loads up a plate with a few muffins, carrots, an apple, and a small mountain of Doug's prized pickled pepper poppers. She pauses before she starts devouring the monstrosity - Silver Set, one of the mares in the Rich herd, is walking up to Doug. Her tongue idly grabs one pepper popper at a time, depositing it in her mouth as she watches the two.

The grey earth pony smiles at Doug, who returns a casual wave at her. She asks, "So, Doug, how has grilling been going?"

Doug shrugs, standing in one of the few areas not under an umbrella or next to a building, "Well, I don't mind the heat, and it gives me something to do. Would you like me to get you anything? It's all turning out really well."

Silver Set nods, looking over the arrangement of goods, "I can get the items myself, thank you for the offer. Although, I think Pinkie Pie cleaned you out of the pepper poppers, and I did want to give them a try."

Doug glances back at Pinkie Pie, the mare keeping her eyes trained on them while slowly moving her plate of pepper poppers away from the two. Her tongue creeps out of her mouth, grabbing a single popper, slowly depositing the morsel in her mouth as she begins demolishing the pile. Doug looks back at Silver Set, "So she did. I guess I can whip up a few more." Doug pulls a box from the side of the grill, setting a couple dozen more of the peppers out. He asks, "So, Silver Set, what do you do around Ponyville?"

Silver Set places a plate with a haydog, a few sliced apples, and a garden salad next to the grill, "Well, my full name would be Silver Setting, but you don't have to call me that. I help in one of the jewelry stores in town, working on all things silver. Sometimes I'll help out with other materials, making settings out of gold or platinum. Especially if Princess Celestia did something noteworthy and lots of ponies want to mimic her style that season."

Doug nods, spotting Silver Spoon playing out in one of the fields with Diamond Tiara. He glances to Silver Set, her belly protruding in a manner very similar to Pinkie Pie's, and asks, "So, do you think Silver Spoon will follow you in jewelry craft?"

Silver Set shrugs, "If that is her calling, she is welcome to it, but I think she is going to be more into mass production, making silverware, utensils, that sort of thing. Knowing Spoiled Rich, she'll be sure to get Silver Spoon to have a section of her craft dedicated to making higher end utensils and dining sets out of pure silver. Not just so she can get a discount, but because Spoiled Rich wants unique, custom work done. Looks much better that way, instead of the plain decorations many other ponies end up using."

Doug hums, "So, you find that ponies get more specialized in their occupations as time goes on?"

"Yes; I don't know how well that trend is documented, but it is fairly common knowledge. Do humans have similar trends?"

"Well, to a certain extent. Lots of children, or foals to use the common vernacular here, follow in their parents hoofsteps. They are trained by their parents, apprenticed, and so grow up doing similar things, if not working at the same store. You see a lot of names, like 'Silver and Sons'. It tends to be some sort of invention that leads to work being more specialized. Although, finally having enough ponies to make specializing an option does tend to be necessary, too; if you only have five ponies, you can't really dedicate one to making silverware, you know?"

"Indeed, that would be a little ambitious." She rubs her belly, "I have a feeling this one will follow more in my hoofsteps, helping around the jewelry store."

Doug smirks, "So, it's not going to be a little Silver Fork running around?"

Silver Set smiles, "Oh, that would be fun, wouldn't it? And a Silver Knife for the last one? Though if the last was a colt, that might be a little inappropriate."

Doug chuckles, "I take it Silver Stud, if it's a colt, wouldn't work either?"

Silver Set laughs for several seconds, closing her eyes and turning her head to her hooves. She recovers, "Oh, that would be precious. Filthy would appreciate it, he loves those kind of jokes, but Spoiled might have a few cross words with me. I was thinking Silver Hoop if it was a filly, but I may have to use Silver Stud if it is a colt."

Doug smiles, "Well, maybe you'll have twins, and can use both."

Silver Set gasps, holding a hoof to her mouth and glancing from side to side, "Who told you?"

Doug winks at her, "Why, you did, just now."

Silver Set laughs, "Well, it was supposed to be a secret, I just learned a few weeks ago."

"Well, congratulations, nonetheless." Doug pulls the peppers off the grill, "You may want to wait a little before chowing down."

Pinkie Pie finishes her plate off; everything seems to be going well here, so where else can she be needed? She disappears under the table, wincing as a bit of pain jolts through her belly. Maybe she should stick to slower modes of transportation, especially when she is double full. She casually lifts the table above her head, stealthily walking towards her second destination.

She spots the next most likely source of something going wrong, slowly lowering the table and pulling out a pair of binoculars. Rainbow Dash is standing in front of four other pegasi, each wearing a Rarity designed uniform that mimics the Wonderbolts. The red and pink is a stark contrast to Rainbow Dash's cyan wings and rainbow mane and tail, and her uniform has her cloud and lightning bolt cutie mark above the town flag, two red ponies prancing around a pink heart. Rainbow Dash begins pacing back and forth, "Alright, gang, this is going to be our first live performance. I know each of you has what it takes, and we've worked hard to get to this position." She stops, pointing a hoof towards Canterlot, "In a few minutes the Wonderbolts are going to begin their presentation. We each need to be in position when that begins."

She points a hoof at each pony in turn, "Cloudchaser, you start in the southwest corner of Ponyville. Bulk Biceps, you start in the southeast." At the stallion's raised hoof Rainbow sighs and points, "That direction. Move to the center of the town, you know the routine after that. Thunderlane, you start northeast; Raindrops, you are northwest. I start in the center."

Rainbow double checks the packs on each pegasi's side, turning and waiting for Cloudchaser to check her own. Satisfied, each pony sticks a hoof to the center, chanting, "For Ponyville!" and taking off, keeping low to the ground as they fly to their respective corners. Pinkie Pie watches as the Canterlot Wonderbolt show begins far in the distance - long, thin streaks of smoke passing over and around the castle.

In Ponyville the four outer pegasi start their performance, four lines of smoke starting from each corner of Ponyville. They meet in the center, breaking apart to make a second set of spokes. The four pegasi reach the outside, doing a quarter lap around the town and completing the circle. Rainbow Dash takes off from the ground, a steady climb from the middle of town. Her teammates hover along the outside of the wheel as they turn off their smoke generators, making a low speed wind that starts turning the wheel. Rainbow Dash breaks through the center spokes, a rainbow contrail following behind. She slowly arcs above the wheel before doing one and a half revolutions around Ponyville and making a mirrored arc back to the center.

Her four teammates fly just above the wheel, changing the direction of their wind. The wheel is slowly pushed down towards the ground, the rainbow circle above it falling down at a faster rate. Rainbow Dash, no longer followed by a contrail and minus her pack, takes off to high above the outside of the wheel, whispering to herself, "Alright, Rarity, don't fail me now!"

Rainbow stops flying, slowing arcing through the air as her momentum carries her higher. She reaches the apex of her climb before plummeting, slowly at first but quickly accelerating towards the ground. She readies her wings, watching the scattered houses of Ponyville get closer and closer before her wings flare out, Rainbow now speeding across the ground and zooming around the outside of the wheel. Rainbow can't spare a glance but can barely see, out of the corner of her eye, the smoke changing color as she blows past. She smiles to herself, giving a cheer soon echoed by her compatriots and the Ponyvillians below.

The spokes of the wheel change shape and color, stretching out to form thick, wavy lines and turning orange, the same orange around the sun in the sky. Dash's central rainbow circle has changed to gold, forming the inside of the sun while Rainbow clears away the outer circle. Rainbow lands among the cheers of her teammates, the stomping of hooves pierced by a sharp whistle and the clap of hand on hand, leaving Princess Celestia's cutie mark hovering above the town, slowly rotating.

Bulk Biceps gives out a loud, "YEAH!!" as the group gathers into a hug, Bulk picking the other four pegasi up and squeezing them together. Once he lets them go the five give a brief bow to the gathered ponies and break apart.

Thunderlane says, "Hey, Rainbow, thanks for, uh, convincing us to do this. Great job!"

Rainbow laughs, "Well, Doug is the one who convinced me to press gang you all into helping. You know, you all could be Wonderbolts if you liked doing it so much!"

Raindrops gives a nervous laugh, "Well, none of us are nearly as good as you, Rainbow. It'd take us years to get where you are."

Rainbow moves over, putting a hoof on Raindrops' back, "Hey, all the more reason to start training now, right? I can help out if you need, you know, some ideas of what to practice."

The gathered pegasi nod, Thunderlane saying, "That sounds like a great plan, Rainbow!"

Rainbow nods, "Alright, then, I'll get back to you all with the details. See you at work!" Rainbow waves, the assembled pegasi waving back, and moves over to find Rarity. The unicorn was in charge of releasing the canisters of orange smoke that her four teammates laid at the start of their flight. The four pegasi then blew away the black smoke covering the canisters as Rainbow made her flight around the outside; then, the four pegasi manipulated the wind to keep the expansion to the correct shape, and Rarity was there at the end to keep everything looking fabulous. Rainbow snickers to herself; the unicorn does have an affinity for making things look awesome.

Rainbow walks over to Rarity and the crowd of admirers, weaving her way through the ponies to give her herdmate a nuzzle. Rarity nuzzles her back, saying, "That was an amazing performance, Rainbow!" to the stomps of the nearby ponies.

Rainbow grins, "Yeah, you were pretty awesome too, Rares! Great job, as always!" The two push their heads together, looking up with closed eyes and beaming smiles. The sculpture above slowly rotates, though small wisps of cloud occasionally break free and threaten to ruin the entire design. Rarity opens one eye, glaring at the offending cloud before a blue aura surrounds it, pushing it back into place.

Rainbow and Rarity finish their hug, Rainbow remarking, "Pony, I'm looking forward to the Wonderbolt interview next year. I think I'll finally be back in shape, especially if training those four goes well." The two turn, looking at the totally-not auspicious table moving towards them. Rainbow rolls her eyes before making her way over, saying, "Alright, Pinkie, what do you have planned this time?"

The table drops down, Pinkie Pie appearing from behind Rainbow, "It's not what I'm planning, it's what everypony else is planning! Somepony is planning something big, and I'm going to find out what and put a stop to it!"

Rainbow sighs, "Pinkie, you planned something big. Nopony here would ever try to do something this monumental, and look at it! There's no way I could have pulled off that stunt without your inspiration and assistance."

Pinkie Pie nods, holding a hoof to her chin, "Hmm, you may be right, Rainbow, you may be right."

Rainbow puffs up, "Of course I'm right! I'm-" Pinkie Pie's tail starts twitching, Rainbow Dash noticing and diving for cover. She looks up at Pinkie from underneath the table, a scared look on her face, "Alright, Pinkie, what's going to happen? I know something is falling, just look at your tail!"

Pinkie Pie laughs, "Oh Rainbow Dash, that was just your ego! It took a huge fall when my tail started twitching!"

Rainbow's eye squints, "But, if your tail never started twitching, my ego wouldn't have fallen. How does that make any sense? Isn't that sort of, um, catch twenty-two?"

Rarity shakes her head, "No, that's when you can't make a choice because making the choice means you can't make the choice."

Rainbow holds a hoof to her head, grimacing, "Morton's Fork?"

Rarity shakes her head, "No, that's when both 'choices' lead to the same outcome."

Rainbow looks up, "Paradox?"

Rarity shakes her head, "No, that's when something contradicts itself. Though Pinkie Pie does tend to do that."

Rainbow puts a hoof to her chin, "Double bind?"

Rarity shakes her head, "No, that's when you can only comply with one of two instructions."

Rainbow's eyes light up, "Self fulfilling prophecy!"

Rarity nods, "Yup, that's it."

Pinkie Pie scribbles on a sheet of paper, "You two are giving me so many good ideas!" as the three smile, laughing and heading back to the party.

12 Train Travel

August 7th, 995

Rarity gives an exasperated sigh; how does this dog have so much energy? She already took her for a walk, and while Winona is eager to help out around the Boutique, she is far too enthusiastic about it. Rarity has tried to instill some manner of restraint in the collie, but the bundle of energy can only watch her work for so long before she starts pawing at the door again. Rarity walks up to Sweet Apple Acres, opening the gate while Winona follows happily behind.

Unable to spot Applejack outside, Rarity makes her way to the farmhouse, opening the door. Judging by the smell, Applejack is in the kitchen; Rarity drops the bag of dog food and Winona's bed inside the dining room. She walks to the kitchen, inhaling the delicious smell of apple pies baking, and says, "Evening, Applejack. Oh, and Apple Bloom, good to see you as well."

Applejack and Apple Bloom look over from the pie crusts they are rolling, saying together, "Evening, Rarity."

Rarity walks over to the oven, a glass of roasted toppings on top while two pies are cooking inside, and smiles, "These do smell delicious; do you have any to sample? Perhaps?"

Applejack rolls her eyes, "Sorry, but they won't be ready for an hour, after your train has left. You bring Winona and her stuff?"

Rarity nods, "Yes, she's waiting in the dining room. Is Sweetie Belle not here? I thought she would be helping you cook."

Applejack and Apple Bloom look at each other before Apple Bloom says, "Um, she had a bit of... difficulty with some of the juice. Ah'll go see if she's doing better, and wants to play with Winona." The foal scampers off into the house, greeted by Winona's happy bark.

Rarity levitates out one of the toppings, taking a bite and grimacing a little at the texture. "This is certainly an... interesting piece. Is it one of Doug's creations?"

Applejack suppresses her smirk, "Um, no, it's, ah, Sweetie Belle's attempt at juice."

Rarity gives the half eaten piece in her hoof another look, slowly chewing before closing her eyes and swallowing. She gags a little as Applejack rolls her eyes, "Come now, it ain't that bad. Just give her some time. Speaking of time, how's Winona been treating ya?"

Rarity says, "Hmm, well, that dog certainly makes up for her size with an abundance of energy. It doesn't matter the time of day or how busy I am, she always wants me to take her outside for walks, and while she is happy to fetch materials for me she tends to... leave a little slobber when she does. Sometimes I feel like I'm at my wits end! I know she means well, but I don't know if she's the best fit for me. And Fluttershy was so happy when Winona and I met; I just hate knowing how she'll feel if I have to give her back. And it's looking less like an 'if' and more like a 'when' each day."

Applejack nods, "Ah know what you mean. Ah thought it would be great, having Opal here to relax with after a hard day of work, or to keep me company when Doug is off with you or working on the weather. But, that cat don't follow any instruction! There's independent, and there's just plain ignoring everything Ah say." Applejack sighs, "Ah confess that Ah was also thinking about giving her back to Fluttershy. Ah just can't bear the thought of making her upset."

Rarity rubs a hoof along Applejack's back, "Well, we'll think of something, I'm sure. Thank you again for looking after Winona for the week."

Applejack nods, "Oh, not a problem, same with watching Sweetie Belle. Ah just might need to watch her a little closer when we're in the kitchen."

The foals can be heard in the dining room, playing with Winona, as Rarity smiles at Applejack. "Well, I must be going. Have a good night!"

Applejack waves as Rarity exits the house, brushing her mane out of her face as she makes her way to the Ponyville train station. The last few rays of sunlight will soon be fading behind them as they take the night train to Dodge City. Rarity grimaces at the necessity to visit that particular rough and tumble place; from what she has heard from Applejack and others the town can be quite nasty. Especially to those with a delicate complexion such as herself.

Rarity levitates a mirror out of the saddlebag she is wearing, checking to make sure everything is still in place. It won't do to not make a trip like this in style, even if they are going the opposite direction than the one she wants. Rarity takes a long look at Canterlot, the city shining off the side of the mountain as it always does. She turns, looking in the other direction. The Everfree Forest, the Ghastly Gorge, Froggy Bottom Bogg. Well, at least the train will make short work of that. She enjoys the expeditions that take herself and Doug through, or at least next to, those areas. However, this will be their first expedition that lasts more than one night. At least her packing list ensures that she will have everything she needs to make the short time in Dodge City and then their venture afterwards palatable.

Rarity pulls out her ticket, flashing it at Steamer as she makes her way towards the train. A few workponies are detaching the remaining cargo cars that won't be needed and Rarity makes her way to the car that will be the second to last. She frowns; she would have preferred to be in one of the more comfortable sleeper cars but they didn't have room for Doug. At least, that's what he told her when he purchased the tickets. He has taken the reins to make this trip happen while Rarity keeps the Boutique running, and Rarity is glad for the relief. She smiles to herself; not every mare has a stallion who can runs things.

He had requested, and Rarity came through with flying colors if she said so herself, quite a number of garments and accessories for the trip. As she makes her way into the cargo car she spots the first of the items. When the farrier had balked at making Doug the pair of steel toed, hobnailed boots Rarity had nearly thrown a fit. Instead, being the refined mare that she is, she merely thanked the ironpony for her time and special ordered the materials herself. Doug had praised her craftmareship and declared the boots a success. They were unnecessary for his work around the farm, but he wore the boots to one of their Gorge outings and she noticed he was a lot more comfortable with walking along the steep inclines than with his everyday work boots. Not to mention how much they will help when he has to start digging.

Next to the boots is a tunic and pants combination made of some of her lighter, more breathable fabric. She smiles as she remembers his claim that these garments are the most important, that somehow wearing more would keep him cooler. Or keep him from sweating as much. Something like that. However it worked, she made him a full set of lightweight, loose clothing - jacket to go over the tunic, underwear, socks, and a funny looking hat that reminded her of Applejack's, but hanging down over his neck. He even got a pair of sunglasses like the ones Rainbow Dash sometimes wears, though he had to get them custom made.

She frowns; he has to have a lot of things custom made, either for this trip or in general. At least the herd is doing well enough to afford it, and if this venture pays off it the expenses will certainly be worth it. She looks over, seeing Doug watching her as she inspects his things. He is patting the thin mat he is laying on and smiling at her. She gives the mat a disdainful look, "I understand, you didn't want to unpack the mattress, but is that all you brought out?"

Doug shrugs, "Well, if you want to get a spot in the sleeper car I don't think it's too late. I won't mind." Rarity looks outside; it has turned to night, and soon the train would depart and the lights of Ponyville would disappear, leaving it pitch black in the room. She glances back at Doug as he lays back down on the mat, pulling out a thin blanket.

Rarity huffs before moving next to him, settling in on the mat. Doug pulls the thin blanket over the two of them, pushing the fluffier of the two pillows under her head and tucks his arm around her. Rarity shifts, trying to get comfortable and already missing the three pillows on the soft, luxurious mattress she normally uses. She feels Doug get up from behind her, grabbing the pants off the wall. He rolls them up, tucking them under his head and places the second pillow underneath hers. She sighs contentedly, shifting herself a little before settling next to him.

"Thank you, dear," she says, as she looks over the bags arrayed around them. She smiles, "It was nice of them to let you store the rest of the bags in another compartment, gives us more space in here."

She feels Doug shift behind her as the train begins moving. He sleepily says, "What other bags?"

Rarity closes her eyes, resting her head as he idly moves his hand up and down her back. She breaths out as he moves around to her side before saying, "The bags with my necessities." At the silence afterwards she opens one eye, turning her head to look at him. "You did pack those bags, correct? I gave you a list?"

He says, sounding less sleepy, "You mean the list I balled up and threw back at you?"

Rarity huffs, "And I'm certain I took that list and made it clear that I needed each and every one of those items."

Doug retorts, "You mean like the winter coat? And the second winter coat and hat and scarf in case the first one clashes with the sand?"

"Well, excuse me, but the desert is supposed to get very cold at night. What else am I supposed to do to keep warm?"

Rarity can feel the smile forming on Doug's face behind her as he says, "Do you know how we keep warm in Russia?"

Rarity puts a hoof to her head, trying to distract herself from the lack of proper accouterments she will suffer on the upcoming trip. "Is Russia somewhere north, like Trottingham?"

"Um, I think that sounds more like Britain, so further north, like a frozen wasteland."

"Ah, so the Crystal Mountains. Um, no, I don't know how one keeps warm in Russia." She gives a sultry smile as she turns her head, "But I can guess."

A large grin comes over Doug's face as he responds, "We play chess."

Rarity frowns, "I guessed wrong." Doug bursts out laughing as Rarity looks at him oddly, "What?"

Doug shakes his head, "Reference from back home. Movie quote."

Rarity pouts, "Oh. Well, I don't think what I was thinking of would have worked anyway," she smirks at Doug before rolling back over, "Seeing as you are shut off until you find a way to properly apologize for what you've done."

She smiles to herself as she lays onto the pillow. He can be a little obstinate, but Doug always does what he can to make her happy. She frowns as she reconsiders; well, unless it involves something where he thinks he is in the right. He is quite stubborn when that happens, much like Applejack in that regard. The two really do go well together.

She coos softly as he rubs her stomach, saying, "Rarity, I'm sorry I didn't give your feelings and desires enough consideration when I was packing for the trip. I know how important those items are for you." He scratches her belly as his hand finds a comfortable resting spot, "I did pack some of the items on your list, the ones that I know you like and might use, but I understand if you don't want to do anything."

Rarity frowns; she definitely doesn't want him calling her bluff, she doesn't actually want to go all week without him. She rolls over, giving him a kiss and whispering, "Apology accepted," as the train continues rolling along the tracks, rocking them back and forth.

13 Gearing Up

August 8th, 995

Rarity wakes up as the sun shines through the window, the train continuing along the tracks towards Dodge Junction. Doug is still asleep, as far as she can tell, laying behind her with his arm wrapped around her barrel. She snuggles next to him, glad for the warmth he provides in the cold cargo car. She sighs to herself; he hadn't lied to her when he said the only space available on the train for him was back here. He will also need to be the first to leave, as soon as the train comes to a stop, but he seems happy about that. Something about 'priority boarding'.

The cadence of the train on the tracks changes and Rarity feels Doug shift behind her. He yawns and she feels his hand move from her chest to her belly. She smiles, "Okay, just this once, but do try to remember that I'm just one mare, and you will need to keep your proclivities in check."

Doug continues rubbing her belly as he leans in, nipping her on the neck as she coos, twisting her head to playfully bite his ear.

The train arrives in Dodge Junction to little fanfare, the only ponies up and about at this hour assisting with unloading the train or staggering around salt drunk. Doug walks out, fully dressed in long, flowing robes. His boots clink like horseshoes as he steps down, the backpack and bedroll on his back barely squeezing through the opening. He turns around, grabbing the two large packs Rarity is levitating across the floor. He takes the straps, slinging them over his neck and grunting as he hoists the bags. He turns, making space for Rarity as the mare steps out into the early morning sun.

Rarity has on a light brown sundress, a large tan hat with a wide brim, and a pair of large sunglasses. Her protection from the sun exacerbates the differences between herself and the earth pony workers around her, many covered in just a simple vest and hard hat. She holds her head up, looking around as she and Doug make their way into town.

Doug says, "Alright, I'll go and find a wagon that we can rent, something that will stand up to how far we are going."

An old earth pony moseys up to them, "You two ain't looking to travel to the Badlands, are you?" Rarity and Doug glance at each other before Doug gives a slow nod. The earth pony slowly shakes his head, "Well, I ain't gonna stop you, but you should know the dangers. Wouldn't want a young'n like you to go missing, ya hear?" He points a hoof at the wall of the train station, posters with pictures of Diamond Dogs, a dragon, and bounties on pony bandits littering the area. The pony ambles away as Doug and Rarity move over, looking at the pictures and some surprisingly helpful information about the Badlands and the dangers they might face.

As they walk away Doug says, "I didn't see anything about those enhanced gems you were telling me about."

Rarity shrugs, "They probably don't have very many ponies that prospect out there, if I were to guess. I'll tell you more on the way, I need to go order some of those supplies." She looks over her dress, "And possibly fashion myself something a little more durable, if those signs are to believed. Still, even if it is a little drab, it will be better than the crime against fashion that letting this pretty number get dirty would be!"

Doug smiles as the two split up, heading towards what appears to be a wagon depot as Rarity heads towards a general store. He pulls out an apple, quickly finishing it off as he enters, looking at the tired stallion at the desk. The tan pony looks back at him impassively, Doug saying, "I was looking to rent a wagon for a week."

The pony gives him a hard stare, looking at the strange garb Doug is wearing. He eventually says, "You got a name? Or collateral?"

"Doug Apple. I have some bits."

The earth pony puts a gray hoof to his chin, looking at Doug again. He says, "What's the name of Applejack's foal?"

Doug replies, "Apple Bloom."

The stallion taps his chin a few times before saying, "Well, I knew her stallion was an odd one. Split Oaks here, good to meet you. So, you looking to travel around the area?"

Doug shakes his head slightly, "Traveling to the Badlands. Doing a bit of prospecting, as a matter of fact."

The pony stops looking through the wagons, looking back at Doug, "Huh. Well, if that's what you want. Might need to get the sand tires then. How big a wagon you thinking?"

Doug says, "It'll be me and Rarity pulling, or mostly me; I think a medium size, or smaller size that still has about fifteen square feet of cargo space."

The salespony moves into the back area, motioning Doug to follow. He leads him to a fairly worn wagon, though the covering on top looks to be in good condition. Oaks gathers a few straps, looking to Doug and wrinkling his brow. "Lets see, going to have to strap you into this some how, make it so pulling it ain't too hard."

Half an hour later Doug is finishing with the modifications to the wagon and makeshift harness when there comes a knock on the wall. Rarity makes her way to the back, looking around at the different wagons. She stammers slightly before saying, "Well, you must certainly get a lot of business, judging by the condition of your wagons."

Split Oaks looks over to Rarity, giving her a smile, "Well, you must be Missus Rarity, pleasure to meet you." He takes a hard look at the clothes she is wearing, "You plan on walking in that?"

Rarity gives a slow nod, "Yes; is something wrong with it?"

The earth pony shakes his head, "No, just need a different harness is all. Come over here, let me get you all set up."

As Oaks gets Rarity fitted Doug asks, "So, did you get all the supplies we need?"

Rarity nods, "Yes, I found out you were here and had them transported. Do be a dear and go around back, lead the porters in here."

Doug nods, disappearing out the front. A few minutes later several ponies walk in, carrying heavy boxes of food and water. He helps them load them up as one of them asks, "So, what do you need so many empty boxes for?"

Doug shrugs, "Bit of digging, taking samples out in the Badlands. Guard request."

Two of the mares exchange nervous looks as one of the stallion says, "Oh, well, keep safe then. It's a long walk, and watch out for the Diamond Dogs. They see you with something shiny and you can count on it disappearing."

Doug nods and the three ponies leave, the wagon just about ready. Rarity steps out, looking a little perturbed at how much physical labor will be ahead. Rarity pays before the two leave, grabbing some breakfast as the sun begins its slow climb.

15 Beyond Sight

August 9th, 995

The cold night air wafts into the tent as Rarity stirs. A soft tapping by the door keeps her from drifting back to sleep and she slowly opens one eye, looking for the disturbance. Kole is sticking his head through the opening in the tent, softly clinking two of his claws together. He smiles and winks at her before saying, "Your mate smell good on you. I like listen, but we move out." His head disappears as Rarity groans; these dogs are already far more familiar with her than they have any right to be.

She slowly staggers to her hooves, the air chilling her hindquarters. She frowns as she looks at Doug's still form; he had told her off yesterday for using just the tiniest portion of their water for a bath. And not even a real bath, just a sponge to wipe off the grime that had managed to make its way under her tunic and onto her coat. She glances back again before grabbing the sponge and one of the canteens. She pours out a small portion of water onto the sponge and wipes herself clean. She takes a drink from the canteen before taking a small towel and drying herself off. She starts packing up the meager contents of the tent as Doug stirs. She leaves the bedroll to him, levitating the remainder out and into the wagon.

Kole is sitting in front of the wagon, and she spots the still forms of Shav and Brutus laying inside the covered section. He sniffs as she approaches, wrinkling his nose and frowning at her. He says, "You... wash yourself off? You not like his musk?" Rarity shakes her head and he continues, "You ashamed of him?"

Rarity shakes her head again as she tucks their belongings into the wagon, "No, I just prefer to be clean in the morning, fresh smelling."

Kole nods his head though his face belies his lack of understanding, "Oh. You want get different scent?"

Rarity starts to nod before realizing his meaning, "Um, well, I just prefer a more floral scent." She stops as Doug exits the tent, beginning to strip it down. Rarity looks around the camp for more things to take care of; even the salvageable firewood has been packed into the wagon, its wide wheels showing the extra weight of the dogs. Hopefully Kole helps push, but the two could handle the several hundred extra pounds even if he didn't. At least the ground slightly slopes down from this point out, that will make things easier on them.

Kole shrugs, "Well, still think he smell better on you." He sighs before saying in a quiet voice, "Least you not ashamed to have his scent on you."

Rarity pauses as Doug brings the packed tent and loads it into the wagon. She moves into position as he helps strap her in; when he starts arranging his own lines she asks, "What do you mean?"

Kole sighs, glancing back at the wagon. He says, "Shav, she not happy. She not happy with boss dog who run warren, she not happy with condition here, she not happy with choice of mates." He looks down at his paws, "Shav put lot of faith in you. She hope she hit big here, then she leave warren." Kole's face brightens slightly as Doug finishes strapping himself in, the human giving his straps a test pull. Kole hops off the wagon, saying, "If Kole lucky, maybe Shav take him with her. Even if she bearing his pups instead of Kole's," before moving to the back end of the wagon.

Doug looks over at Rarity as the two begin pulling. The wagon slowly moves forward until Kole begins pushing from the back, the three able to overcome the wagon's inertia. Doug asks, "What is he talking about?" as Kole continues to push, the wagon slowly accelerating to a good walking pace.

Rarity gulps; she should have told him earlier, but it hadn't come up with how exhausted she was. She tentatively starts, pausing multiple times as she says, "Well... one of Shav's conditions was that... at the end of this, either you... sire her next litter or Brutus and Kole have their way with me."

Doug gives Rarity a flat stare as Kole comes around the back. He walks along before dropping to a more comfortable four legged stance. Rarity tries giving Doug a smile but it quickly breaks under his gaze. He finally shakes his head, "What is with females in this place?" Rarity gets a slightly offended look on her face but says nothing. Doug laughs to himself before saying, "What, and you're okay with all this?" At Rarity's delayed nod he continues, "You all are way more open about this than I ever figured." He pauses, looking up at the night sky, "Humans were always extremely closed about the whole topic of sex and mating. Even if it is quite possibly the most important thing to, well, just about everyone."

Kole responds from the side, "Well, each bitch just looking out for their young, you know? When stronger stud comes around, why not she choose him?" Kole looks down at the ground, "Kole wish he stronger stud. Then Shav happy about choose him." Doug looks sadly at Kole, pity apparent on his face.

The stars above twinkle as the moon shines brightly. Doug looks up, thinking that he can make out Orion's belt before everything blurs together again. After a few minutes Rarity hesitantly asks, "Um, Brutus, do you think... Was he one of the ones on the poster? That we saw in town?" Doug looks back into the wagon before glancing back at Rarity and nodding. She shudders, asking, "What could he have done to deserve such punishment? And, 'The Incarcerator'? What kind of brute gets a title like that?"

Doug shrugs, "The poster just said to be on the lookout, listing his crimes as 'forcible imprisonment' and 'behavior unbecoming of a pony'. I don't think it was a wanted poster, more like an fyi."

Kole laughs, "Oh, that? Brutus proud of that. He think ponies let him off easy for what he want do, he just have too much fun."

Doug and Rarity glance at each other as Rarity asks, "What did he do?"

Kole says, "Well, mare come to Brutus, ask him guide her around area. She look for gems, he dig, they split find. After he done dig, she say he not find enough. She try to leave, take all gem. Brutus get mad, dig hole, put pony in hole. He say pony can come out when she give his share. She refuse, so he leave. Come back, bring water, food. Pony unhappy. Brutus leave, come back. Start complimenting mare on smell. Mare think joke, Brutus not, he like pony smell. Brutus offer, since mare still want all gem. He say, mare let him have her, he let her out and she get all gem. She say yes, but let her out first. So Brutus dig way out, mare change mind, leave Brutus. Brutus sad, not give chase, hope mare reconsider. Then guard come, mare claim Brutus hurt her, force her. Brutus say no, only sniff, and want get gem what his. Guard take mare side, but only prove he put in hole and sniff, they take nose. Not first time Brutus got trouble for sniff."

A gruff voice behind them says, "Brutus think pretty pony smell good, but can't tell. You ready for nap?"

Kole and Brutus swap places, Brutus loping along, staring at Rarity. Kole gives the two a short wave as he hops into the wagon, laying down next to Shav. His quiet snores are soon heard as Doug and Rarity continue pulling the wagon, their destination growing closer and closer. Rarity chances a glance over at Brutus; the dog is leering at her, his eyes tracing every fold of the tunic surrounding her.

She self-consciously adjusts the fabric, laughing to herself as she debates if she wants to make herself seem more appealing or less. Her mind seems happy enough that she is getting attention: that is the purpose of making herself look nice, isn't it? It's just, the source of that attention is starting to creep her out.

Brutus moves closer to her, saying, "Brutus hope Doug not take offer. Brutus want to feel pony, let her know happy Brutus. Make pony happy." Rarity shudders, looking over at Doug who seems none too happy at the direction the conversation has taken. She sighs; his conflict averse personality, his desire to not antagonize others, would make it so she would have to handle this. Brutus moves closer, "They take nose, but Brutus still taste. Can Brutus taste pretty pony?"

Rarity shudders again, "No, Brutus, I'm sorry, but you can't taste me."

Brutus sighs, moving back to his previous position. He draws a single line in the dirt, his claw tinkling against every rock in its path. Doug says, "So, Brutus, have you found a lot of mares that you like the smell of?" Rarity gives Doug a glare, trying to tell him to be silent, and Doug shrugs in return.

Brutus stops dragging his paw, putting the dirt streaked claw on his chin. He says, "Lot? No. When go pony town, find one mare. Or two mare. Brutus like how pony smell. Find one mare who like Brutus. But other pony tell her no. She leave Brutus." He looks over at Rarity, flexing his arms, "Brutus not leave Rarity."

Rarity sighs, looking over at Doug, "Look what you started."

Doug shrugs again, "Sorry, I was bored. So, you going to start a new line of vests?"

Rarity shudders, "Ugh, don't remind me. If we had some spare fabric then maybe I can do something, but they need something more durable than canvas cannibalized from the bags they brought. Hmm, maybe if I layered it several times, it would also help with the holes that some of the pieces have." She glances at Doug, "Maybe if somepony had bothered to pack my sewing supplies they would have new vests, but no, somepony was too concerned with weight."

Doug rolls his eyes, "Well, you still have your travel sewing kit, it's just packed away in the back." Rarity's eyes brighten at that as Doug continues, "I'm sure we could part with something as well, I think it would make a great present for each of them at the end of this." He glances over at Brutus, who has started dragging his claw in the ground again, "And possibly new collars, or at least if you could update their collars with some of the gems that we find?"

Rarity nods, "Yes, I think that would look very good on them." She says in a lower tone, "Why are you being so nice to them? Aren't you, you know, worried about what they might do to us?"

Doug slowly nods, "Yes, I am worried; but, if you were trying to convince them to genuinely like you, would you treat them with suspicion or give them the benefit of the doubt? If they are going to take advantage of us, I don't know if we could stop them. Without a preemptive strike."

Rarity continues in her hushed tone, uncomfortable at that line of thinking, "Yes, well, but... very well. I do hope I don't have to say I told you so at the end of this." She says in a slightly louder voice, "It wouldn't hurt to accessorize either, so maybe a bracelet? Or do you think they would prefer an anklet?"

Doug ponders a moment before saying, "Well, we would need to find something to use as a chain, right? And I don't know how much silver we'll find in the area."

Rarity says, "Hmm, yes, gold would be a little ostentatious for them. Though a dull platinum or possibly iron would look good."

Rarity looks back to the wagon; she concentrates and her horn lights up, a few pieces of paper and a pencil levitating out of one of the boxes. She draws a few designs, glancing over at Brutus as the three continue their slow pace.

The Macintosh Hills loom to their right and the two watch as the moon sets, slowly dipping down over the horizon. The sun breaks out over the snow capped mountains to their left, rapidly rising to the morning position. The two continue walking as Brutus hops into the wagon, the ground changing color as they walk. And not a gradual change either, an abrupt shift from relatively green grass on either side of the path to a reddish dirt as they cross the low part of the Macintosh Hills to the burnt orange of the Badlands ahead of them.

Brutus hops out of the wagon as Kole yawns, standing on the edge. He slowly exits the wagon, dropping down and walking along. Shav steps out, looking refreshed and sits down on the wagon edge, watching the ground. As they get close to the Badlands she calls out, "Let's stop for breakfast." Doug and Rarity gradually come to a stop, letting their momentum carry them. Rarity undoes her various clasps with her magic but does not move out of position. Doug works his way out of his harness; he climbs into the wagon, pulling out a bag of fruit and oats. He drops down, sharing with Rarity as Shav grabs a bag of their own, tossing each dog a raw potato.

The group eats in silence, the dogs gnawing at their potatoes as Doug sits next to Rarity, eating an apple as she makes her way though a good amount of oats. Shav finishes her potato, asking, "So, J'mare, what's the range on that gem finding spell of yours?"

Rarity slowly gets to her hooves, "It depends on the size of the cache. I can sense larger ones, maybe ten pounds of gems, at about fifty yards. A single gem at about ten. I get more information as I get closer, and it's not terribly difficult to maintain for a short time, as I move around. If I'm right on top of it I can make it light up so anypony can see, but that's within one yard."

Shav looks over at Brutus, "Alright, J'mare, we'll head about a mile in before we start our search. I'll be honest, I haven't done enough prospecting to really know where the best deposits are, so we're going to do a wide search at first. Brutus, you'll take first shift helping Doug pull, and trade off with Kole every hour until we need both of you digging. I'll assist digging if needed, but I'll mostly be keeping a watch out for anything approaching, and figuring out where we are going next. We'll stop around ten, take a four hour break for lunch and nap, then pick back up until moonrise. Any questions?"

Everypony looks around before Shav and Brutus start walking forward. Kole helps get the wagon started after Rarity and Doug strap themselves in. They begin walking to the east, following the foothills of the Badland Mountains. Rarity's horn occasionally flares, but she makes no indication to Shav, finding only scattered single gems of little interest. After finding nothing after a mile Shav decides to change course, taking a more southern route away from the mountains.

After a few minutes Rarity says, "I found some. A medium cache, to the southeast." Kole begins wandering off to the southeast, looking at Rarity as she says, "No, a little further. Now, to the left. I'm sorry, my left. A little more. Now, towards me. Okay, too far. There!" Kole digs down, quickly disappearing from sight before returning just as fast. He is holding about twenty gems of small or medium size. Rarity does a quick scan, "You missed a few in there. About five feet down, mostly to the north." Kole dumps the gems on the ground and hops back in the hole, reappearing and holding the remaining gems. He picks them up, awkwardly holding the gems in his arms as he makes his way back to the wagon.

Doug has stopped pulling, allowing Rarity to get out of her harness. She levitates over a short metal rod as Brutus looks at the various straps that helped Rarity pull. He glances to Doug, "Maybe I push from back?" Doug nods and Brutus smiles, moving to the back of the wagon.

Kole drops the gems on the ground, hopping into the wagon and returning with a single bag. He puts all the gems into the bag, pausing when he is holding a single small diamond. He smiles at it before tossing it into the bag as well. When he goes to leave Doug says, "Hey, Kole, you should carry a few bags with you, make carrying the gems easier." Kole gives him a happy grin, grabbing a few more bags and shoving them into his vest.

The group quickly develops a routine: Rarity and Shav scout new areas, with Rarity moving close and marking the ground with her metal rod. In areas with multiple marks Shav and Kole help dig as Doug continues his steady march. Brutus brings the full bags of gems back to the wagon and helps Doug push in between areas, then brings empty bags back to the diggers. After a dozen caches the group starts filling each bag to capacity, not caring as to which cache gets put in which bag, even bringing the partially full bags from earlier and filling them.

Lunch and the nap afterwards is a quiet affair, the group not bothering to set up any tents and instead napping inside or underneath the wagon. Both Doug and Rarity have stripped out of their garb. Doug is laying down inside the wagon, the bags of gems piled on the outer section of the wagon, plenty of room for the next few days of prospecting. Rarity is laying next to him, debating whether she should wash her coat before or after she brushes out her mane. Rarity glances back at her tail; she misses the curls she meticulously styles every morning. Well, unless Doug won the game that night, in which case he gets to 'help' her with her mane and tail.

She jerks as her brush starts running along her back, turning to see Doug holding it. She shifts, giving him better access to her coat as he continues his ministrations. One of his hands moves to her thigh and she flinches again, a twang of pain from her overworked muscles. She grimaces as his hand finds the spot again, lightly running down her leg. He sets the brush down, bringing both hands to start massaging her legs and Rarity coughs, "Excuse me, you do not leave my coat half brushed. Get back and finish it, then you may begin my massage."

Doug rolls his eyes, "Yes, your majesty. Would you like me to fan you during or after the massage?"

Rarity puts a hoof to her chin, miming thinking deeply. She raises her hoof into the air, "I do believe it will be both. Yes, that will do nicely."

"But, mistress," Doug agonizes out, "How will I fan you during your massage? Would you prefer I use one hand?" He starts brushing the other side of her coat as Rarity thinks again.

"Yes, well, um, I do believe that you, shall, um," Rarity trails off, trying to think of what she wants him to do.

"Ah ah ah," Doug retorts, "Looks like I win this round."

Rarity huffs, "Fine, you win. It's this heat, I'm just worried it's going to wreck havoc on my coat!" Doug rubs his fingers through her coat, digging into her sides and Rarity flexes away, a frown on her face. She looks back to see him holding the conditioner she likes and she smiles, settling back. "I have trained you well, I don't even need to remind you not to get your oily hands all over my coat."

Doug smiles as he finishes applying her product, finally starting the massage on her legs. He asks, "How have you been holding up? You've been doing a lot of walking these past few days, even if the pace is comfortable."

Rarity stretches out her other three legs as Doug makes his way down her back leg, "Yes, well, what else am I supposed to do? My telekinesis doesn't reach that far, at least not without being even more draining than my gem spell."

Doug ponders as he continues on her other side, "Well, how good is your aim? And can you throw very far?"

Rarity looks back, her eyes raised, "Well, it's not amazing by professional standards, but passable, I suppose. My sire did love throwing the old hoof back and forth. What are you thinking?" One of Doug's hands slips a little close as he massages Rarity's inner thigh and she shudders, "Oh, dear, please don't even joke about that. I am much too tired, especially with how demanding those dogs are. I can't believe they expect that to happen every night."

Doug shrugs, "Sorry. Must be a dog thing, but I guess I keep up with five of you back at home. Anyway, I was thinking you could make, like, several different balls. Something very visible. And you color coordinate them, or maybe by size, for how deep they need to dig and how many gems they are looking for. Or do you have a spell that could duplicate that?"

Rarity looks at him, "Well, for as much grief as you give me about how much I like to pack, I certainly hope you didn't bring along a full set of croquet balls just to watch me fling them around or something."

Doug moves up to Rarity's front legs, "Well, maybe you could use gems? I could look through the crates for something suitable, but in my mind you would want something both light and durable." Doug looks outside the wagon, the desolate landscape stretching for miles. "Maybe you'll find something as you are looking, like the bones of a dragon or something."

Rarity shakes her head, "You really live up to your name, don't you? Well, I shall keep my eye out, my magic has been holding up well but my legs feel like they are about to give out. The dogs definitely notice, but they've been too polite to say anything. Or they see me as weak." Rarity turns to Doug, giving him as pathetic a face as she can manage, "You don't think I'm weak, do you?"

Doug laughs, "Rarity, my love, you are anything but weak. You have such a strong spirit, and mind, and heart."

Rarity pouts, "I notice you didn't include my legs in that list."

Doug gives her front leg a squeeze, "Well, maybe you should join me on some of my morning runs, and we can work on that."

Rarity whines, "But then I'd have to spend more time on Applejack's dusty old farm! Waaah!"

She playfully beats her hooves against the bottom of the wagon before Kole shouts from underneath, "Hey, try sleep! Cut it out!"

Rarity gives Doug a sheepish grin as she stops, daintily placing her hooves back on the floor. Doug finishes his massage before grabbing the brush and starting on her tail. Rarity smiles, resting her head on her hooves and mumbling, "Don't forget the mane," as she drifts off to sleep.

16 Unnatural Energy

August 10th, 995

On the second day of their wanderings through the Badlands, Rarity smiles as she gets up from their after lunch nap, feeling very much refreshed. Doug is already up and about, making sure the wagon is holding up and everything is ready to go. He is currently rearranging a few of the boxes, putting gems inside in order to reuse the bags. Shav looks into the wagon, asking, "What are you doing? I thought we had system for splitting up gems?"

Doug says, "Well, honestly, that would take a long time, to pick out each gem individually. I was thinking of something else." He opens one of the strong boxes, grunting as he lifts one of the bags of gems and dumps the lot inside. He sets the bag aside, saying, "I got the idea from a game I played a few times. So, it's the same kind of system you agreed to before. But, instead, the person takes all the gems from the box. They make as many piles as they would like, then we take turns picking the pile of gems that we want."

Shav watches as Doug pours the next bag of gems into the pile, her eyes nearly glazing over as the small diamonds pour forth. She shakes her head, "That... Um, Shav not know about that. It sounds like a way for smart dog, like Doug, to take advantage."

Doug looks at her, "Well, the goal is to make the piles as even as possible. I don't see how I could take advantage of that."

Shav shakes her head again, "No, you not take advantage. But Kole, Brutus, they not quick like you, they take long time to make even piles, or they go fast and make uneven pile. Then you take advantage, pick bigger pile. And those two do not like to go slow."

Doug ponders, "Well, I don't want to do something you are uncomfortable with, especially after you already reached an agreement. What if you and me are the only ones to make piles? Alternate between us, and then do picks like before?"

Rarity hops back into the wagon, listening to the whole conversation while she eats her lunch. Shav glances to Rarity, then says with a smile, "What if Doug is the only one to make piles? And we get first pick?"

Doug looks to Rarity, "Um, I'm okay with that, with one stipulation. Rarity has a contract to provide the guards with special gems. We would get all of those, giving you gems of commensurate value." When Shav cocks her head to the side he adds, "Approximately equal value, either in other rare gems or in multiple smaller ones. I'm guessing you like diamonds."

Shav grins, "Well, you know they are a dog's best friend."

Doug holds a hand to his chest, "You mean it isn't me? I'm hurt."

Shav moves over, putting a paw over his hand, "Don't worry, well be very good friends by the end of this." She looks back, winking at Rarity, "But sorry, diamonds still win out." She hops out of the wagon, "Now let's get moving, lots more gems to find!"

Doug sighs, "You know why she wants this so badly?"

Rarity shrugs, "No more than we did yesterday. Besides, I can tell you love the attention, having another mare lust after you."

Doug frowns, glancing away, "You're right, it does make me feel good. I think I'm mostly worried about what Applejack, or the rest of the herd, would say. I certainly don't want to be seen as a cad, or dishonorable, you know?"

Rarity grins up at him, "Oh, but if you get permission then you'll be fine with it?"

Doug quietly laughs to himself, "Well, sure, I guess I would be. But, if my alternative is for the two dogs to take you, well, I like that one a lot, lot less."

Rarity sighs unhappily, "Well, if we're being honest, then I agree, I like that option a lot less as well." She looks outside the wagon, "There is a third option, I assume we pay off essentially every dog in that warren. And probably a few others. But that would leave us at a loss, not even covering the time we spent here." She breaths out and back in a few times as she considers, eventually saying, "I suppose Applejack will understand if I authorize you to stud with her. I will be present during the, ahem, action, but only as an observer. She gets no rights to the Apple name, no alimony or child support, and normally would pay you for the service. But maybe she sees working here with you as payment, so I wouldn't push the issue."

Doug shrugs, "Well, you know me, I hate pushing issues. Anyway, we need to head out. Try to look for something you can toss around, I didn't see anything to use yesterday. Just sand and dirt for miles."

Rarity glances down as Doug helps her into her tunic, followed by the rest of her outfit. She finds her boots and hat and hops out of the wagon as Doug dons his own garb. Doug straps himself in before Brutus helps push the wagon, the group quickly starting up again.

Rarity moves along, finding several caches before one of them pings stronger than the others. She calls the group to a halt, saying, "This one is different, I think there's a golem inside." Doug unhitches himself as the group gathers up, looking at the area Rarity pointed out. Doug picks up the quarterstaff while the Diamond Dogs grab clubs from the wagon. Rarity says, "I'm not pinging a lot of strength, but I think it is angry."

Brutus hefts his club, looking among the group. "We ready?" he says, before looking back at the area and smiling a toothy grin, "We ready."

Brutus walks up, holding his club in one hand. Doug and Kole walk behind him, wielding larger staffs, with Rarity and Shav bringing up the rear. Rarity just has her hooves while Shav is holding a polearm, topped by a heavy blade. Brutus continues approaching, growing more hesitant as nothing seems to be happening.

Without warning shards of blue crystal explode from the ground, scattering themselves in a loose circular pattern. From the middle emerges a small red crystal, barely standing a foot and a half tall. It silently shrieks at the group before charging, beginning to glow red as it approaches. Brutus readies his club, taking a heavy strike at the creature as it comes into range. His blow sends the golem soaring into the air; it explodes in midair, eight fireballs spreading out in a nova. Everypony ducks down as the fireballs sail over them, dissipating as they get further away.

The creature hits the ground hard, breaking into multiple smaller pieces. A large gem is left in the pile of scrap crystal, glowing a soft green. Brutus glances back to the group, saying, "That easy," as he cautiously makes his way towards the ruby. He pokes it with his club; at the lack of response he says, "Any more? Too easy."

Rarity's horn lights up and she shakes her head, "Just a large cache of gems." She moves over, glancing at the blue crystals that litter the ground. She picks one up, smiling, "Right... here," as she tosses the crystal through the air. The improvised javelin punches into the ground as Rarity says, "Three feet down, maybe forty gems." Rarity glances back as Brutus continues digging; Doug is standing there, looking shell-shocked. She quickly flares her horn, saying to Shav and Kole, "Oh, um, there are a couple other deposits." She levitates a few of the crystal pieces, flinging them out and watching where they land. "Within three feet of those pieces, about four feet down. Maybe ten gems each."

Shav and Kole nod, glancing over at Doug before heading out to the deposits. Rarity moves over to Doug, standing up on her hind legs to give his face a nuzzle. She says, "Doug? Darling, are you doing alright?"

Doug stares past her, looking at the spot where Brutus had hit the golem. He slowly shakes his head as he glances to Rarity, "What was that?"

Rarity continues nuzzling him, trying to cheer Doug up as she says, "It was a gem golem, dear. One essence, from what I could tell. I've dealt with maybe two of those before, they aren't terribly hard to disrupt."

Doug pushes a hand under Rarity's hat, starting to pet her mane, "And the fire?"

Rarity nods, "A low powered magical burst. If it hit, it would have felt like getting splatted by cooking oil. Painful, but by no means deadly. It looks far more powerful than it is." She levitates over a piece of the blue crystal, "And look! We have a couple pieces that I can throw, just like you thought I would find."

Shav, Kole, and Brutus slowly make their way closer, clutching their bags of gems. Shav tentatively says, "He going to be okay?"

Rarity nods, "Yes, dear, just a little shaken. Oh, do you have the gem there?"

Brutus nods, grabbing the ruby and holding it in front of Rarity. She levitates the gem up to her face, her eyes glowing as she inspects it closely. She nods, "Yes, this is exactly what we came here for! Hopefully we can find many more like it."

Brutus gives a gruff laugh, "Yes, many more! Brutus like find more."

Rarity smiles, turning back to Doug, "So, how do you think I should depict on these crystals how many gems and how deep they are?" She drops back down, taking a step towards the wagon before turning and making sure Doug is following her.

Doug turns, hesitantly walking along. He considers, saying, "Hmm. How many do you have? And can you change their color?"

Rarity levitates one of the javelins in front of her face, the remainder she levitates over to Doug. He takes them, inspecting the hard crystal. He tries to bend one of them but fails; he begins tapping it along the ground in front of him before striking the ground harder, trying to bend or break it. Rarity shakes her head, "No, I don't think I can change the color. I mean, I could try, but I'm afraid of mixing too many enchantments on what is already fairly unstable. I think this crystal served as a sort of cocoon for that golem, but who can be sure?"

Doug takes a second shard, trying to mark up the first one. He grimaces as he holds up his hand; the sharp crystal has given him a nasty cut from where he gripped it. He sighs, sucking the dripping blood as Rarity levitates the shard to herself, giving it a nasty glare. The five reach the wagon and Doug hops in, placing the blunter shards on the wagon and grabbing some disinfectant and bandages for his hand. After cleaning the wound he places his gloves on top of the bandages, gripping the sharp shard again and trying to etch on a different piece.

He smiles at his success, "Alright, how about this." The dogs gather up as he explains, "We mark this section as best we can; that shows the depth. We'll draw a number that shows how far down you have to dig." He looks at the pieces Rarity has next to her, "I think for now Rarity will have to call out how many gems there are. Maybe as we get more we can label better." He shrugs, "Or you can just call out depth and number of gems when you throw the javelin. Whatever is easier for you."

"Well, it'll probably be easier on everypony if I just call out the number and depth every time. We haven't found so many deposits that I need to carefully keep track." Rarity nuzzles Doug' injured hand as he packs away the medical supplies.

Doug smiles at her before grabbing one of the gem bags and Rarity's saddlebags. He ties the bag mostly shut before attaching it to the sides of the saddlebags. He places them on Rarity's bag and at her questioning look he says, "To store the shards you aren't using. Easier than levitating them everywhere, right?" Rarity gives him a quick kiss before walking off, in search of more gems. Doug straps himself in as well, straining to move the wagon in the sand and catch up to the four walking ahead of him.

17 Monstrous Treasure

August 12th, 995

Kole peeks in the tent; Rarity and Doug are both fast asleep. Rarity is not wearing her tunic or boots to bed, and Kole likes how she looks without the fabric covering her body. He thinks Doug likes it too, how his hand strokes her bare chest, slowly making circles in the soft fur of her belly. She has a nice belly too, he can only barely tell that she foaled. Maybe if she took more strenuous walks or jogs, like they are doing here, her tone would improve. Kole likes Diamond Dog with more meat on bones. Diamond Dog like Shavronne, but she has not show interest in him this season. There is still hope though, maybe if Kole keeps digging, maybe she would let him have a turn after Doug.

The digging has gone very well; yesterday, Brutus fought ten angry golems and three hate-filled ones. Kole is not far behind with eight angry and four hateful golems. Rarity is happy when they found angry golems, but still smiles when they find hatefuls. Kole has done a good job, and Rarity gave him a large crystal shard she found. She made a grip on the sharp crystal so Kole wouldn't hurt his paws, and the big crystal makes easy work of the small golems. Even Shavronne took a crystal shard and put it on the end of her polearm; Kole thinks it is good for bitch to be far back, safer that way. She just fought one golem. Rarity said the golem was both angry and hateful, and it took several hard hits to destroy. 'Shavronne strong and quick,' Kole thinks to himself, 'she not let golem hit her with rock or with shiny blue and red balls.'

Kole looks outside the tent at the surrounding area; this will be their fourth and second to last day of finding gems. They already have boxes and boxes of gems, more gems than Kole has ever seen in one place. Other than Boss dog gem room. Kole salivates as he steals a glance at the wagon; that many gems would go a long way to making Kole a stronger dog. Get better vest, shiny collar, then maybe Shav like him more.

Kole moves to the wagon as the first rays of dawn shine above the mountains. The high peaks block the sun from being seen this early, and today will be the first day they really strike out away from the snow capped mountains. They had gone slowly, a few miles east, a quarter mile south, then a few miles west, carefully making their way along and trying to get as many gems in the relatively safe area. Kole looks over to the west; the further they had gone, the more likely they were to find the gem golems. When Shavronne had found her golem, she stopped their progress west, instead heading back towards the mountains, though it wasn't the only dual golem they fought.

When she saw how happy the gem made Rarity, though, Shavronne reconsidered. For today, and maybe tomorrow, they will head closer to the center of the Badlands. Kole knows that most dogs that venture to the center of the Badlands, those hoping for the greatest riches, those are the dogs least likely to return. Also most dogs return with nothing in paws, but when Boss return with largest load of gems, it make other dogs keep trying.

Kole removes the food, making a little more noise than he would like. He makes a plate for Rarity and Doug before replacing the food, noting how light the bag is. It's a good thing they are starting back, they probably won't have food for too many more days out in the desert.

Doug makes his way out of the tent, looking around at the dawn. Kole moves over, giving him both of the plates. Doug thanks him with a smile before sitting down, placing the other plate inside the tent. He looks over at Kole, saying, "Kole, you seem like a nice enough Diamond Dog. Hard working, follow orders well, good and strong." He takes a bite of his apple, chewing as he mulls over his thoughts, "I guess, what I'm trying to ask is, why is Shav so intent on me?"

Kole shrugs, looking off at the mountains, "Well, you big. Maybe not strong as Diamond Dog, but make up with smarts. You not have what other Diamond Dog look for in mate, but maybe she think that problem. Problem with how Diamond Dog think only of self. Also, you mate with pony, and no dog mate with pony." Kole scratches his head with a hind paw; are those things that he should try to copy? Then Shav would like him more? He continues, "But Shav not just thinking about future litter. She knows how other Diamond Dogs think. That part of why she want leave."

Doug tentatively asks, "What do the other Diamond Dogs think? Would they do something?" Rarity pokes her head out of the tent, a worried look on her face. She looks at Kole while taking a slow bite of her breakfast.

Kole laughs, "This wagon, hold all gems you want bring home? Every Diamond Dog in warren come looking for you. They know you head out and where you going. I not only scout that spot you, just first to get to you." He looks pointedly at Doug, "She know if she take your seed, if you sire with her, then dog leave you alone. You one of them." He looks over at Rarity, giving her a hard stare, "If you take Diamond Dog seed, even if not take, not sire, then they leave you alone. She just looking out for you."

Rarity says, "Well, that would have been good to know, I was worried sick about this! I'm still not very happy about it."

Kole shrugs, "Well, it is as is." He falls silent, the three staring off into the distance as Rarity and Doug slowly eat their breakfast.

After a time Doug responds, "I think that's the most profound I've heard you, Kole." The Diamond Dog shrugs, Doug continuing, "And I think you sell yourself short. Besides, Shav will need someone to help look after those pups. I think you'd make a fine candidate." Kole gives him a wry smile as Doug stands up, preparing the wagon for the upcoming journey. Rarity excuses herself, going back into the tent and packing up the belongings inside.

Rarity steps out of the tent, levitating a few items into the wagon before quickly packing up the tent. Kole takes a long sniff, smiling at Rarity, "You leave his scent on. You not ashamed any more?"

Rarity frowns, shaking her head, "I was never, well, ashamed of him. I just... Let's just say, I realized how my actions could have been taken, in regards to Doug, and I wanted to show my support and love for him. Even if it does get a little painful to be shown that love so frequently."

Kole laughs as Shav and Brutus come out from the wagon, rubbing their eyes as the morning sun crests the Badland Mountains. Kole brings the two their breakfast before taking some food for himself. The three quickly finish their meal as Doug comes over to Rarity, holding a small box. She glances at it and then back to his face as he says, "So, I know we packed this for emergencies, but I think Princess Celestia will want to know and observe. Who knows? It might help her in their research, even if a pony isn't strictly being involved." Rarity looks at the paper, it stating the time and intentions between Doug and Shav. Doug asks, "You still okay with this?"

Rarity pauses, thinking to herself. She knows Princess Celestia will help them if they need to escape their current predicament, but Rarity will be unhappy with herself that it is necessary. She looks up at Doug, giving him a nod. He takes a bit of the dust inside, sprinkling it over the paper before lighting it with the green match. The paper quickly ignites, swirling into the air as it disintegrates to dust and blows away.

Doug straps himself in, preparing for the journey west. Brutus gives his new club a few test swings, slapping the flat side into his other paw. Doug had helped him fashion it from the biggest piece of the prison one of the dual golems had broken free from and the dog looks eager to put it to good use. Rarity idly twirls one of her javelins as Shav tests the point on her spear. Doug smiles as Kole juggles his two clubs with one hand, glancing back at the shield he had made for himself, the tower shield composed of long, wide pieces of crystal. He hopes the frame sticks together, the pieces of crystal essentially impaled on each other to hold it in place with a rounded off area for him to hold on to. Next to it lay a few of the longer javelins that Rarity had been using but found a little cumbersome; he'll make a proper champion one of these days!

They make good time, Rarity opting to skip a few of the very small caches in order to continue their faster pace. The first golem they encounter is a third type, the wrath apparent on its crystal face as it unleashes a torrent of lightning towards them. Brutus and Kole stay out of range as Rarity hurls a few javelins, quickly dispatching the small golem. The orange gem it leaves behind looks different from the ones they had found previously; Kole places it in the stash for special gems while Brutus digs out the cache.

The five continue their way west, the dogs growing bolder at facing the wrath-filled golems, even facing several combinations of wrath, anger, and hateful golems before Rarity pauses. Doug unstraps himself as the group huddles close, Shav asking, "What is it?"

Rarity slowly shrugs her head, "It's the largest cache we've come across. By far. I can feel the anger in this one, and hate, but there is something else." She gulps before continuing, "It's afraid. I think. Or that's me, it can be hard to tell, sometimes."

Brutus laughs, "We break it, show it right to afraid!" He swings his club back and forth before advancing, everypony readying their armaments.

The ground shakes as Brutus walks in range, the dog quickly retreating as the purple golem bursts forth. It stands nearly ten feet tall and half as wide, bright red orbs spinning madly around. The pieces of crystal clash together as it moves, a cacophony of sounds filling each of them with dread. Three spectral crystals eject themselves from the main body, slowly making their way towards the group.

The golem charges forward at Brutus while three of the red orbs fling themselves into the air. Shav and Kole dodge to the sides, the orbs impacting the ground and leaving a dark red taint on the sand. Brutus swings his club, striking the golem with a heavy blow that barely seems to impede its progress. The golem returns a flailing strike, swinging the upper half of its body towards Brutus as the dog yelps and dodges backwards.

The three spectral crystals creep towards Rarity, the unicorn screaming as she stabs at one with a javelin. The weapon passes through the crystal, doing nothing to halt its slow strides towards her. She turns and gallops away, fear plain on her face, as Shav moves towards the golem and strikes it with her spear. Kole advances as well but steps onto the red taint. The ground underneath him erupts, catapulting the burning dog into the air before he lands with a pathetic whimper.

Doug advances, moving in front of Kole as a barrage of blue and red orbs blast out of the golem. Doug blocks two that are aimed at Kole with his shield as Shav and Brutus dodge out of the way. Rarity seems to have recovered as well; she screams, "IT! IS! ON!" advancing and loosing several javelins at the golem. The javelins pierce into the lower section of the golem, maiming it and slowing its advance on Kole as the crystal shards dig into the ground.

Brutus and Shav flank from opposite sides, Brutus relentlessly slamming the back while Shav lands a brutal double strike. The golem staggers, trying to decide which of the threats to go for as a second volley of red orbs erupt from its body. The two dogs and Rarity advance, the orbs landing behind them and cutting off their retreat while Doug pulls Kole away from an impact, the dog howling in pain. The three mercilessly beat the crystal, dodging its dying gasp as it gives out with a loud screech.

The spectral crystals and taint on the ground dissipate as the golem is defeated, leaving behind the smell of burnt ozone. The group moves over to Kole, the dog weakly smiling up at them. The fur on one of his legs is badly burned, the pad oozing blood. The rest of the fire that had spread over his body seems superficial, merely charring the ends of his fur and going no further. Doug sets his shield and javelin down before picking Kole up, the dog whimpering at the movement as Doug carries him to the wagon. Doug helps him clean the wound as Shav, Rarity, and Brutus look over the remains.

Shav remarks, "Well, if that is three essences, I don't know if I want to fight anything stronger."

Rarity shakes her head, "I think it was four. Maybe five. Anger, hatred, rage, and fear. Maybe dread, it was hard to tell."

Shav holds up the crystal, light emanating from within. "So, rage was the fire bombs? And fear the spectral crystals?" Rarity nods and Shav shudders, "Well, I hope we don't fight anything more that powerful. I just hope it was worth it."

Rarity nods, "No crystal is worth the loss of a friend." She smiles at Shav, who smiles back before embracing the pony in a warm hug.

The moment over, Rarity directs Brutus on where to start digging out the very large cache. Doug returns with the wagon and Kole, the dog sporting a bandage around his foot and a limp, the burn on his leg merely taking his fur off but going no deeper. Kole starts packing the gems into boxes as they are unearthed, quickly filling several with the large gems. Brutus admires a particularly large diamond before placing it reverently into one of the boxes.

Shav looks at the number of boxes they have filled with gems, clearly conflicted between putting them in more danger and the tantalizing rewards of doing so. Rarity puts a hoof on her shoulder, saying, "While I think we can handle three essences without endangering ourselves, I think I will steer clear of ones with four." She gives the dog a smile and receives one in return.

The path they follow takes them only slightly more west before heading north and then back to the east. They meticulously make their way back and forth, keeping tighter lines than when they were traveling on the eastern section of the Badlands. They don't encounter any more quad essence golems, though a combination of fear, doubt, and sorrow throws the group for a loop with the number of extra enemies they have to face, and nopony notices the green eyes that follow them as they continue their path south.

18 Lasting Impressions

August 13th, 995

The evening of the fifth day in the Badlands draws to a close as the group pulls up to the edge of the Macintosh Hills. The three dogs can barely contain their excitement as Doug pulls out the first of many boxes. He carries it down the ramp, placing it outside the wagon with a light thud. He smiles at the group, "Before we get started, I just want to say that it has been a pleasure working with each of you. Now, we know it isn't much, but Rarity and I were able to cobble together a few pieces that I think each of you will enjoy."

Rarity gives a polite laugh, "Well, I was able to cobble together, Doug mostly did the locating and cutting."

Doug smiles at Rarity, "So, without further ado," he moves over to the box, opening the lid and pulling out a vest. The purple of the vest, the same as the golem they fought the fourth day, seems to slowly shift colors, the gradation hard to keep track of as the vest moves back and forth. Fused around the sleeves, collar, and inner edge is a crystal blue, made of roughly ground crystal fragments in a pattern identical to Rarity's cutie mark. "The size might not be exactly right, but we have a reasonably successful seamstress pony here if you need any alterations."

Rarity grins, waving a hoof at him and saying, "Reasonably successful, oh, you."

Doug moves over, holding the vest out for Shav. She looks at it, a tear forming in her eye. Shav strips off her old vest, grabbing the new one and donning it. She smiles, "Oh, it fits perfectly!" as Doug hands one to Kole and Brutus. Each dog takes their own vest off, putting on identical versions. They smile at each other before looking eagerly at the remainder of the box.

Doug smiles, "Well, sorry, but that's it for the personal gifts. I hope you enjoy them!" he says as he pulls out a jacket for himself; it is styled the same as the one made for the Diamond Dogs. As he dons it he says, "Rarity wanted to make a dress for herself but we didn't have the right fabric to really do it justice. But, be assured that as soon as we get home that is going to be the first thing she does." At Kole's whine he rolls his eyes, "Okay, maybe the second thing, but let's not get too sidetracked, not just yet."

Doug goes back to the wagon, dragging out three boxes. He motions to the already open box, "So, these are all of the special gems that we found over the course of our journey. Do you have any particular attraction or desire for these?"

Each dog shakes their head no, Shav adding, "Well, aside from their additional value if we were to trade them."

Doug nods, Rarity interjecting, "Yes; a single essence would be worth between three and ten times a normal gem, with the fear essences being on the low side of that, and anger on the high side."

Doug continues, "We figured the double enchanted ones are worth between ten and seventy times; again, fear barely adding anything, and anger with anything else useful being very valuable." He draws in a short breath, "The less valuable triples we placed at around fifty each. The two valuable triple essences we tentatively placed at two hundred and fifty gems, and the quad at around three hundred."

Each dog draws a quick breath, glancing around at each other. Shav moves forward slightly, "As a thank you for taking us on this expedition, I would like you to have those three gems, as a gift from each of us."

Rarity quickly says, "Oh, dear, you don't have to do that! Really, it's too much!"

Shav laughs, "Oh, listen to you, you'd think you were the only generous one here! Rarity, really, we're glad to do it. It's not like we'll be leaving here empty pawed!"

Doug smiles, "Well, thank you very much for that. Let's see, I have this written down somewhere." Doug fumbles around, finding the inventory of the boxes, spread over several sheets of paper. He motions to the three boxes outside of the wagon, "This is in exchange for all of the other essences that we found. I wasn't exactly sure how you wanted to split them among yourselves, so Shav and I did our best to split them evenly. Each box is sorted by the kind of gem, labeled with a name. And yes, the boxes out here have the diamonds."

Kole and Brutus dive for the boxes, stopped mid lunge as Shav grabs on to their vests. She remarks, "Wow, nice construction," as she halts the two's progress. They both give her a sheepish grin and she sighs, "Fine, you can open the box. But no frolicking!"

The two make their way to the boxes, slower this time, each labeled with one of their names. They open the lid and stare at the diamonds contained within. Brutus says in an awed voice, "This all for Brutus?"

Doug says, "Well, you might want to wait, not spend them all in one place, but yes, they are all for you." Brutus moves over, giving Doug a large hug around the waist before Kole also moves close, hugging him around the chest. Doug does his best to return both hugs as the two cling to him, tears in their eyes.

Shav moves up, saying, "Doug and I spent most of the return trip, when the digging was slow, splitting the gems up. I think you'll each be quite happy."

Doug motions back to the wagon, "Each of you has four more smaller boxes in there. You can go look now if you want, they're all labeled."

The two clamber into the wagon, looking for their boxes as Doug and Rarity trade a knowing look. Shav laughs, saying, "Those two can be quite the pups, sometimes." She glances over as Doug starts preparing a fire; she helps gather wood from the wagon as Rarity pulls out the food.

The unicorn grimaces as she withdraws the last of the turkey, though at least it's better than the other meats he has mentioned in the past. She divides the jerky among the four other plates and brings the vegetables over to Doug, the kabob skewers ready to accept the chunks of peppers, squash, and broccoli.

Shav takes her plate of turkey, starting to dig in as Kole and Brutus come out of the wagon, smiles on their faces. Doug starts the vegetables while Rarity gathers some flat bread, butter, and honey. She offers some to the dogs, each accepting while Doug places a few peppers on their plate. He divides the rest among Rarity and himself, each able to enjoy their meal while watching the sun set over the Macintosh Hills.

Kole and Brutus leave the fire, heading back to the wagon and laying underneath. They turn, resting their heads on their paws as they watch the fire slowly burn down. Shav finishes her meal, placing her plate off to the side and glancing to the wagon. She turns, looking at Rarity expectantly. Doug chews his food slowly, still looking at the sky at the stars start winking into existence, the moon soon joining them as it begins its journey over the Badland Mountains.

Rarity gets to her hooves, looking Shav in the eye. She states formally, "Shavronne; I, Rarity, second mare of Herd Apple, honor the studding of Doug to you. Know that this carries no claim to the Apple name, no offer of support for your young, should this union produce them, and is valid only for tonight. Do you understand?"

Shav nods, "Rarity, I understand and accept." She glances around, saying, "So, is she going to be here soon, or?"

A dull light briefly flares off to the side as Princess Celestia blinks into existence, much like the stars above. She looks around, smiling at the creatures around her. She starts a regal walk toward the wagon, glancing at Rarity and saying, "Greetings, my little ponies. I trust I'm not too late?"

Rarity bows, quickly moving to keep pace with the Princess, "No, Your Majesty, you are right on time." The two get to the wagon and turn, watching the two still sitting by the fire. Princess Celestia's horn shines her brilliant blue, if more muted than usual; her eyes glow the same blue as she settles down on the ground.

Shav says to Doug in a quiet whisper, "I can't believe you are okay with all this attention. And the Princess!"

Doug shrugs as they begin, "Well, it isn't the first time."

Princess Celestia closes her eyes, focusing entirely on the magical aura in front of her. It is still a little unnerving, watching just a single magical aura; the mingling and merging with a void, a blankness instead of the second aura this process normally combines. She smiles as she sees another aura pop into existence. She records the event with the same clarity she always does, adding her notes for Cadance's later perusal. A second and third aura wink into being a short time later; after a few minutes with nothing else Princess Celestia does a quick scan of Shav. Satisfied, the magic surrounding her horn disappears as she gets to her hooves, opening her eyes. She moves over, saying, "Congratulations, you two; triplets." She winks at Doug before saying, "Good night, my little ponies; may the night watch over you all." Her horn lights, a brief flare of her magic duller than normally brilliant light as she teleports away.

Shav rubs her belly, saying slightly dejectedly, "Only three?" She smiles to herself before looking at Doug, the human watching her with a smile. "I suppose that will do. Would you like to name them?"

Doug ponders, moving a hand to his chin as Rarity slowly makes her way over. He says, "How about Rover, Fido, and Spot?"

Shav laughs, shaking her head, "You come up with the silliest names. Very well, if that's what you want." She settles down by the coals, not wanting to move from her position as Rarity and Doug walk back to their tent, "Good night." The two smile, a short nod from Doug and something between a grin and a glare from Rarity.

Next morning is a quiet affair, Rarity and Doug enjoying a breakfast of fruit as the dogs sleep in, though Shav slightly stirs as Doug carries her back to the wagon. They begin rolling along the dirt road of the Macintosh Hills several hours before dawn. Kole peeks his head out of the wagon at the motion before he hops out. He walks a short distance away from the group before returning, sitting on the front of the wagon. He is holding one of his diamonds, peering closely at the twinkling of the moonlight in the gem. After several minutes he goes back inside, laying down and watching the hills go by.

After several miles of trudging along sunlight begins peeking through the treetops of the swamp. Shav and Brutus hop out of the wagon, the lighter load slowly picking up speed as they continue along the slight incline. The dogs hold a few diamonds in their paws, comparing the gems to the ones in their collars and debating which gems look better where.

A sharp whistle rings out among the hills; Rarity and Doug glance at each other as Shav walks to the front of the wagon. She whistles back, two loud high tones, as she moves over to Doug. Two Diamond Dogs burrow out of the ground a short distance away from the wagon, both clad in metal armor and wielding clubs. They advance, looking between Shav and Doug.

The dog in front yells, "Hey! Report!" as he walks up to the wagon. Doug and Rarity continue pulling, Doug watching the dog and Rarity glancing behind her and then back to the left. She stumbles slightly, not used to looking in a direction other than the one she is travelling, before focusing on the ground ahead.

Shav moves to intercept the guard, walking between him and the wagon. She says, "The dig was good. Lots of gems."

The guard sneers, looking over at the two dragging the wagon along. Doug smiles, but it quickly fades as the dog pushes Shav out of the way and moves up to him. He points a meaty paw up to Doug's face and says, "You think you big? You challenge?"

Doug shakes his head, "No, I meant no disrespect, no challenge."

The dog stares at Doug for several seconds; the human looks back, blinking occasionally, before the dog lowers his arm, turns, and walks back to Shav. He says, "Hey, get ready. We empty wagon."

The other guard smiles, a large toothy grin that sends a shiver down Rarity's spine as she glances over. He hefts his club, moving towards the front of the wagon as Brutus says, "Hey, no. They dog now."

The lead guard turns, glaring at Brutus and saying, "Oh? Sniffless, you forget what dog and what pony?"

Kole stands next to Brutus as the two advance, the second guard reconsidering and moving towards Brutus and Kole. Kole says, motioning to the human pulling the wagon, "No, Shav take Doug, take human. She have his pups."

The lead guard cocks his head, confusion on his face before he turns and looks at Shav. He inhales through his nose, a long breath before he snorts, "Runt lie, it too soon."

Kole shakes his head as Shav responds, "Pony magic, they able to tell."

The guard stares at Shav before raising his arm, the loud slap ringing through the nearby hills. The blow knocks her to the ground, twisting her head to the side. Her head slowly turns back and Shav glares up at him, blood dripping from her mouth as he says, "You no Diamond Dog. You just like those two." The guard points towards the front of the wagon.

Shav shakes her head, starting to laugh, "Oh? Here, you take box, take to boss. Tell him, 'this come from union of dog and pony'. Tell him, he want more, maybe he start working with pony, not just take from pony." She spits blood from her mouth, looking the guard in the eye, "Kole, get box eight."

Kole nods, disappearing into the stopped wagon before bringing out one of the smaller boxes. He carries it over to the guard, taking out two diamonds from the pocket on his new vest. He gives one to the lead guard, saying, "For your troubles."

The guard stares at the box, then glances at the diamond in his paw. Kole gives the other diamond to the other guard before turning back and starting to push the wagon. Shav stands, rubbing her jaw before saying, "Tell boss that payment for Shav." She moves back, beginning to push the wagon as Brutus starts walking along, watching the guards and looking as menacing as he can.

The wagon starts rolling again, leaving behind the two dogs and the box. After a time Shav moves over to Rarity and Doug, "I'm sorry you had to see that. Normally that goes a little more... peacefully."

Rarity says, "Dear, yes, but what about you? Are you hurt?"

Shav laughs, "This? That mutt barely scratched me. Are you two good to keep pulling?" The two nod and Shav continues, "We should probably keep pulling through the noon, to be honest, don't want anypony getting the wrong idea, you know?"

Doug nods as Rarity says, "Yes, but... those gems, that was one of your boxes. Please, let us make it up to you. We can pay you back, for all the pain you've been through."

Shav pauses, "Well... I suppose I'll need the help, especially if I'm no longer welcome here. I think it will all smooth over, but, just in case, you know?" Brutus and Kole move to help push, a faster pace as they make their way up one of the rolling hills. Rarity smiles as the five continue their fast walk to Dodge City, hoping there are no more unexpected interruptions along the way.

19 The Stockkeeper

August 14th, 995

Applejack drags her cart, this time full of crates of apples, to the Ponyville Train Station. Normally Big Mac handles these cargo runs, but today she is meeting up with Rarity and Doug. Hopefully they will need the cart; Rarity had high expectations for their trip, part of the reason Applejack is okay with her stallion taking a week 'off'; she was able to pick up his normal duties around the farm easily enough. She is a little jealous of the attention Rarity would have received on the trip, knowing Doug, but she has been in that position before and knows how tiring it gets.

Walking along side Applejack, careful not to get too close to the mare's hooves, on account of the accident they had two days ago, is Winona. The collie, paw no longer sore, is happily keeping pace, the cadence of her paws against Applejack's hooves almost exactly two for one. On top of one of the crates lays Opal, the cat only mildly disturbed by the occasional bump in the road.

Applejack waves at All Aboard, the earth pony looking over his glasses at her. He glances to his log book, then to his pocket watch, then to the wagon behind her. "Aren't you a little early for this delivery?" he asks, shuffling through a few papers.

Applejack nods, "Sure, but Ah have to pick up a lot of boxes from the train today, and it saves a trip."

All Aboard glances behind him, "I guess we'll be able to store those for ya, small charge of course." He flips through his manifests, "Hmm, I don't see any orders for you or your herd. You sure it's today?"

Applejack unhitches the wagon, beginning to unload crates of apples into the room behind him. "Eeyup, Rarity and Doug are supposed to be coming in tonight with a load of gems. Ah hope; Ah just got word from them that they would be earlier than they thought, and my cousin in Dodge City told me a few days ago that the Diamond Dogs have been a lot more active the last couple days."

The train's whistle can be heard off in the distance; Applejack spares a look before she finishes unloading the crates. She tips All Aboard before pulling her wagon to the cargo section of the train, slowly climbing on top to get a better view. She waves as she spots Rarity, the unicorn sitting at the window and watching the town go by. She spots Applejack, smiling and waving, unheard words coming from her mouth.

Doug appears from behind Rarity, a backpack on his back. He blows Applejack a kiss and waves. Applejack rolls her eyes, tipping her hat to him before hopping off the wagon. The train pulls to a stop; the two doors slide open, Rarity hopping out of the cargo hold and moving over to embrace Applejack, saying, "Darling, so wonderful to see you again!"

Winona barks a greeting as Applejack says, "Rarity, it's great to see you, too. Winona here sure is happy, too, aren't you girl?" Winona barks again, dashing over to Rarity and leaping up. Rarity manages to catch Winona with her magic, cooing at the dog as she squirms, twisting in midair and swiping at Rarity with her paws. Rarity levitates over a towel, cleaning off Winona's paws before setting the brown and white collie back on the ground. The dog immediately pounces at Rarity, propping herself with her front paws on Rarity's leg and trying to get to Rarity's face. Rarity sighs, moving down to nuzzle the collie. She gets back up, finding a clean section and toweling the slobber off her face before moving over to the wagon, dropping off her saddlebags.

Rarity spots Opal sitting in the wagon, sighing and saying, "Why can't Winona be more like you, Opal? You're happy to sit there, all nice and clean, waiting for me to come to you." Opal stares back at Rarity, tail slowly swishing back and forth, before Winona runs into Rarity's hind leg. Rarity grimaces, looking back before jumping to the side.

"Heavy load coming through!" Applejack shouts, grinning at Rarity. The earth pony drops two heavy boxes onto the wagon, moving aside to allow Doug to place a box next to them. Applejack and Doug move back to the train as Opal hops to the top of the pile of boxes, making room for a second load. Winona continues standing next to Rarity, staring up at the unicorn as Rarity watches the two return to the train. On the third trip Applejack says, "Rarity, you and your pet are in the way, either help or move!"

Rarity moves to the front of the wagon, Winona following her, before she realizes her mistake. She shakes her head at Winona, "I've been pulling that dreadful wagon far too long, girl, apparently 'I' think that I should be up here pulling!"

Applejack quips, "Well, that would be mighty helpful Rarity, thank you." Rarity rolls her eyes, stepping away from the front of the wagon. Applejack continues, "Or, you can stand there and let us do all the work."

Rarity whines, "But I'm tired! We pulled that wagon all night long to make Dodge City in time for the morning train, and I missed my beauty sleep on the train! I mean, Doug is comfortable and all, but we only had the one blanket and the pad was thin and the floor was cold! And then it was too hot!"

Applejack shakes her head, her pregnant belly continuing after the rest of her body stops, "You're complaining to the wrong pony about the heat and cold, Rares." She loads the last of the boxes onto the wagon, "Wow, you found all these gems out there? That must have been a lot of digging."

Doug walks to the front of the wagon with Applejack, helping her strap in, "It's about forty percent of the gems, actually. We made a... business deal with three of the Diamond Dogs in the area. They ended up getting about sixty percent of the gems, by number, though a lot of these gems are considerably more valuable." Doug stares at Rarity, a forced smile on his mouth.

Rarity sighs, starting to walk along next to Applejack, "Fine, I suppose since I authorized it, I'll tell you. One of the, ahem, stipulations one of the Diamond Dogs demanded was that Doug have a roll in the hay with her."

Applejack's brow furrows, looking up at Doug, "Huh. Really? And you went along with it?" Doug nods; Applejack continues, "Huh. Ah assume you did the standard stud contract. How was she?" Doug shrugs his shoulders, looking up at the sky and holding his hand to his chin. After a few seconds Applejack says, "Ah'm waiting over here, spill."

Doug replies, "Well, I would say the enthusiasm of Rainbow with the experience and stamina of Fluttershy."

Applejack nods slowly, a slight frown on her face. She looks at Rarity, the mare forcing a smile back at her. Applejack shakes her head, "What, Ah guess it happened, so Ah'm supposed to be happy about it? Well, Ah ain't happy about it." She looks over at Doug, "And you don't seem too unhappy, why'd you go along with it?"

Doug sighs, "As Shav explained, the dogs who live in the area would have otherwise taken a large portion, if not all, of the gems that we found. If not more."

Applejack cocks an eyebrow, "More?" Doug nods his head at Rarity; realization spreads over Applejack's face. "But, why doesn't Princess Celestia or the royal guard do something about that?"

Doug shrugs, "Different culture? Not enough guards? Not enough ponies that are affected? Take your pick. Apparently the guards in Dodge City deal with any dog that sticks a nose out of line quite harshly, maybe they figure that is enough."

Applejack sighs, "Well, Ah'm still not happy about it."

Doug gently strokes her mane as they make their way to the Carousel Boutique, "Well, I wasn't either, not really." Applejack continues walking, not looking at him; Doug sighs, "I'm with you and Fluttershy tonight, right?"

Applejack turns, staring at Doug for several seconds before grunting out, "Eeyup, at her place."

"Alright, I'm going to head to Sugarcube, catch up with Rainbow and Pinkie Pie. We can talk more then. See you two later."

Doug walks off, his wave more apologetic than energetic, as Applejack stops the wagon outside of the Carousel Boutique. The two mares begin unloading boxes, Applejack eventually asking, "Do you think the right call was made, back in the Badlands?"

Rarity thinks for several seconds, "Well, I think we made the best of a bad situation. I could have asked Princess Celestia when we invited her to observe - to she if she could learn anything from Doug and a Diamond Dog, unlikely as it is - to help us escape. I think she would have done it, but what would that have taught us? To rely on somepony else when we are capable of confronting the problem ourselves? Is that the kind of message we are going to pass to our foals, that we must rely on Princess Celestia or the guards if trouble befalls us?"

"Now see here, Rarity, those aren't the only options."

"Sure. We could have left the area and instead of bringing fifteen boxes home, we bring three. Maybe four. Not enough to cover the week we spent going there, getting my coat dirty, roughhousing all over the Badlands, nearly dying to a blasted essence crystal, the train tickets, and renting the wagon. Or would you have preferred that I was the one who got the 'opportunity' to spend some quality time with our hosts?"

"Now, Rarity, that ain't fair at all. Surely there was another option, one that don't involve polluting the Apple name with some Diamond Dog!"

Rarity shrugs as the last of the boxes is brought inside, Winona doing her best to stay out from under hoof while still being as close to Rarity as possible. "Well, in the studding contract, I did specify there is no claim to the Apple name. I highly doubt anypony is going to ask her who the sire of her pups are, and if you feel so strongly you can ask her not to spread it around."

Applejack looks over at Rarity, confused, while Opalescence hops onto one of Rarity's empty tables, stretching out and watching the commotion. Winona starts barking, a frustrated look growing on Rarity's face. Applejack asks, "What do you mean, ask her? She coming here?"

Rarity glares at Winona, the collie whimpering and quieting down, "Please, Winona, I've just gotten back, I'm tired, I just want to be done with this and rest." Rarity looks over at Applejack. "Yes, well, not here exactly, but I think she is moving to the Ghastly Gorge or someplace out of the way, similar to her warren near the Badlands." Winona moves to the front door, Rarity shaking her head, "No, girl, not another walk, I'm exhausted."

Applejack looks over at Opalescence, "Come on, Opal, let's leave Rarity, she's obviously tired from all this." Opal stares at Applejack, the earth pony moving over to the cat. Opalescence hisses and Applejack sighs, looking over at Winona. Applejack glances at Rarity; the unicorn has her eyes closed, breathing deeply. "Rarity?"

"Yes?"

"Do you think Fluttershy would notice if we traded pets?"

"Why?"

Applejack shrugs, "Well, Ah just think Opal is a bit more your speed, you know? She likes hanging out, staying inside. You prefer staying inside, working on your fabrics."

Rarity yawns, "Yes, and Winona does love playing outside. I think that would be for the best." She grins over at Winona, "I know I'll miss you, girl. Have a good time with Applejack!" Rarity glances back to her lead, "Hopefully Fluttershy understands. That does remind me, I need to make a dress for myself." Rarity moves over to Applejack, resting her head against her lead's, "Applejack, I am sorry I could not come up with a better solution. Please forgive me."

"Ah believe you, Rarity, maybe there wasn't a better solution there after all." Applejack sighs, "Ah forgive you, if you think you did something wrong. Otherwise, there ain't nothing to forgive."

Rarity smiles up at Applejack before yawning again, looking at the boxes scattered around her store. "Well, I think all of you can wait for tomorrow. Good night, Applejack." Opal walks deeper into the store, taking a perch on one of the boxes and curling up.

"Night, Rarity. Alright, Winona, you'll be staying with me now, at Sweet Apple Acres." The dog barks as Applejack continues, "Plenty of space for you to run around over there. Come on, little doggie!"

20 The Singular Spirit

August 20th, 995

Rarity smiles to herself as she finishes cleaning up her store. She has been hard at work sorting through the various gems she collected with Doug, something she tries to do at least thirty minutes per day, whenever she can spare the time. With the order for the Canterlot Guard completed she finally has some time to inspect the the essences that the guard isn't interested in. Doug arrived earlier and is already inside one of her storerooms, sorting through some of the essences. Now that she is done with the store she can finally join him. And maybe Pinkie Pie will enjoy it, the mare sure likes making fun games out of tedious activities.

The bell over the front door chimes, two white coated guards making their way into the store. Rarity walks over, admiring their polished gold armor as she says, "Good evening! I assume you are here to pick up the crystals?"

One guard nods, moving over to a box located near the door. "Is this it?"

Rarity shakes her head, "No, those are scraps I'm saving, I need to take those to the back." She turns to the back of the store, calling out, "Doug! Can you bring out the guard essences?"

A faint "Sure!" can be heard from the back, and Rarity turns back to take another look at the guards. Their armored helmets cover the back of their heads and manes, but leave the front and neck open. There is a dull black gem in the center of the chest piece, two stylized wings that spread to their shoulders, and interlocking plates that run along the back to their tail. On their hooves are armored horseshoes, three triangles with the elongated center spike pointing towards the black gem.

The guards spin, one hoof going to the spear strapped on their back as they move to a defensive position by Rarity. She turns, looking with confusion at what set them off. Doug walks into the room, two boxes held in his arms and obscuring his vision as the guard sternly says, "Ma'am, stay back." When Rarity doesn't move and instead gives a small smile and laugh the guard asks, "Do you know this creature?"

Rarity chuckles, "Yes, he's my stallion, Doug. Trust me, he's har... well, let's just say that he's friendly, and you can put those spears away. Darling, put the boxes by the door, these two gentlemares are here to take the order to Canterlot."

One of the guards says, "Well, to the train station first," before the other guard turns and gives her a quick glare. The first guard coughs, "Well, if that is all, then we'll be on our way."

Doug sets the boxes down, looking at the two guards. He raises an eyebrow, "That's your normal armor? I assume you use something different for battle, that looks incredibly ineffective."

One of the guards rolls her eyes while the other one fumes, "Oh? You think you know a lot about warfare, creature?"

Doug shrugs, one of his hands scratching the back of his head, "Well, not personally, but your armor design is all wrong."

The fuming guard moves up, "Really? How so?"

Doug motions towards the back of the pegasus, "Well, for starters, gold seems like a terrible choice for armor, being heavier and more easily punctured than steel, or even iron. And you are protecting the wrong spots; what attacker is going to hit your back, you, a pegasus flying in the air? And you aren't even bothering to protect the most vital organs, along your neck and barrel, to an enemy that you are exposing exactly those elements to."

The guard in front looks to Rarity, "You didn't tell him what these crystals are for, did you?" Rarity shakes her head and the guard smiles, turning back to Doug, "I'm going to enjoy this. Alright, Doug, take your best shot. If you can hurt me, you're off, scot-free. Just as a demonstration."

Doug squints at the pegasus, "Really? You want me to kick you?" At the pegasus' nod Doug steps up, lifting one leg, calloused and toned from years of helping Applejack cart apples over rocky paths, plowing fields, and further attempts at apple bucking. His foot shoots out, aimed at the open spot under the armor along the pegasus' barrel. His strike is cut short, impacting something six inches away from the pegasus' body and sending the guard sliding along the polished floor.

Rarity screams, "No! Are you all right? Don't worry, dear, Rarity is here, she'll help you get through this!" The guards roll their eyes as Doug winces, returning to his standing stance. Rarity dashes over to the four lines scoured into her Boutique's floor; she raises her hooves to the ceiling, "Wwhhhyyyy!"

One of the guards moves over, "Ma'am, we'll be happy to help with this, just give us-"

Rarity shakes her head, "No, you have important guard business, I assume." She spins, glaring at Doug, "You, on the other hoof, should have known better. Did all that 'practice' you do with Rainbow teach you nothing, or were you just foaling around with her!"

Doug holds up both hands, "Hey, sorry, I got a little carried away, I don't know what came over me."

Rarity huffs, "Well, be prepared to go out in the cold and hope that Barnyard Bargains is still open, this needs to be fixed immediately!"

Doug sighs, "Alright, they don't close for a while, hopefully they don't mind if I'm there getting an order for you." He turns to the guards, "You two need to go? Also, impressive enchantment on the armor there."

The guard massages her side, "Yeah, well, they don't exactly absorb the impact of a blow, the enchantment just spreads it out unless it'll be a lethal hit. Then it absorbs the blow completely, the enchantment overloads and becomes useless until it can be reenchanted. Saved the life of a lot of pegasi, that Walk."

Doug raises an eyebrow, "Walk?"

The guard nods, "Sure, Abram Walk. Most ponies like to attribute it to Star Swirl, but that old coot didn't come up with the design, just the spellwork. You see, way back in the day, the other nations weren't as peaceful as they are now. We fought the griffons, minotaurs, zebras, yaks, deer; you name it, we probably fought a war with them. And they learned quick that the best way to fight a pegasi fleet was to flood the sky with as many crossbow bolts as possible. Those bolts pierced the armor we were using at the time. Not all the pegasi made it back home."

The guards glance at each other as Doug asks, "How do you know all this?"

One guard shrugs, "History course, part of being a member of the guard. Keeps it interesting, and let's us know the thought process on how they come up with this gear, in case one of us gets a bright idea. Like those crystals you have over there."

The other guard continues her story, "Anyway, Commander Hurricane wants to bring more pegasi back home, of course, but doesn't want to overload us with even heavier armor. We dodge more bolts than the extra armor would protect us against. So, he tells Star Swirl and Clover to come up with some better armor designs, hopefully ones that reduce weight, keep us agile, and protect the most vital parts. They pass that assignment off on Walk, it being not 'hoity toity' enough for the unicorns. He looks at the pattern of where the bolts are piercing, which sections have holes in the armor, and he comes up with something that completely blew Commander Hurricane's mind."

Doug shakes his head, "No way. I don't believe it."

The guard cocks her head, "You don't believe what? That it happened? Because you're looking at the results."

Doug continues shaking his head, "No, I know how the story ends."

The guard glances over at Rarity, who shrugs her shoulders. The guard looks again at Doug, "Really."

Doug nods, "There is a parallel story, from my world. During World War II, a statistician looked at the bullet hole patterns of returning aircraft. And he decided to add armor to the areas where the bullet holes were missing, because those are the areas where the aircraft, or in your case pegasi, were getting hit and not surviving, while the survivors had bullet, or bolt, holes in areas that were non lethal."

The two guards stare blankly at Doug before one of them says, "A... world war? How exactly do you have a world war? How many... of your kind lost their lives in a world war?"

Doug shakes his head, "Irrelevant, or more accurately, you don't want to know. Princess Celestia can ask me if you really think it's that important. So, what was your solution to the problem of armor?"

The guard continues, "Well, Walk came up with the design, and Star Swirl designed the shield spell to be enchanted into the gem. You see, the spell is the strongest part of the armor, able to diffuse the force of a bolt or other blow, spreading it out over the entire area of the spell, lessening the overall damage. Plus, any enemy not in the know will aim for those areas, assuming they are able to aim at a pegasus in flight, making it harder for the attacker to actually do damage. The reason behind gold for the other areas is two-fold; first, it's a clear reminder that we are Princess Celestia's royal guard, inspiring hope or doubt depending on whether or not you should be worried we are coming. The other reason is, with physical attack less of an issue, magical attacks became a more serious consideration. The gold is better able to hold some of our anti-magic enchantments, protection from lightning and magical bolts, that kind of thing."

Doug nods, "Wow, fascinating stuff."

One guard looks outside, glancing back at the other. "Well, it has been good talking to you, Doug. Rarity, we must take our leave. Good night!" The two pegasi grasp the boxes, loading them onto their backs before walking out of the store.

Doug looks over at Rarity, "I'll be in the back, finishing my sorting. Afterwards I'll redo the floor, if you can get the materials for that. I really don't want to be harassed going to Bargains again."

Rarity sighs, "Very well, I suppose. I do hope you've learned your lesson. And be sure to check on Sweetie Belle, I think she's asleep, just make sure she is in her bed."

Doug nods, heading to the back of the store, while Rarity steps outside, her bell jingling merrily. Sweetie Belle is happily sleeping in her bed, and he heads inside the storeroom. Once inside, Doug holds up the largest of their finds, peering into the quad essence crystal, fascinated by the colors swirling within. Two yellows, one bright and the other more muted. One green, pale, sickly. One blue, cold, indifferent. He can feel the barest hint of emotions - a hint of anger mixed with rage. A fear of the other, the unknown. A hatred of the outsider, indifference to their troubles. He shakes his head, putting the crystal off to the side.

He twirls his pencil, thinking of what he is supposed to be doing. Making a list? He knows he wants to tell Starlight more about this crystal, but his mind seems to draw a blank, the contents, the meaning, the... essence of what he wants to write to Starlight gone. She had gotten his letter about the stone, and she wants to come here and see it, but... He puts his pencil down, staring again at the crystal. One more look wouldn't hurt, right?

The door opens, Rarity walking into the room. She takes a look at Doug, the human staring deep into the crystal. She shakes her head, saying, "I know they are pretty, dear, but you need to sort them into their piles, not stare at them."

She notices a flicker of anger on his face, quickly turning deeper. Harsh intent directed at her. She frowns as his mouth tightens, glaring at her before his face relaxes, his eyes growing wide and unfocused. He says, meekly, "Rarity? I think something's wrong."

Rarity looks at Doug with concern; he has rarely shown anger before, almost never at her, or fear. She closes her eyes, focusing her magical sense on the core innate to all creatures and magical objects. She can see the crystal brightly, her cutie mark giving her more insight into the magical structure than most ponies would receive, and she can see the wisps of magic flowing out. They are coalescing in a dark reservoir, pooling around in the spot where she knows Doug is sitting. She frowns, turning off her sight; normally, a pony's innate magic would keep those kind of influences out. Hopefully removing the crystal will allow Doug to return to normal; until then, he might need to be comforted and reassured, the foreign influences slowly purging themselves from his mind.

Rarity moves over, slowly stroking his back as Doug starts shaking. He clenches his arms around his legs, pulling them up against his chest. His hands ball into fists before relaxing, rubbing his legs as he moans. Rarity looks worried as she inspects the crystal; she better remove it from the area soon. She uses her levitation to lay him on the floor, her stallion continuing to shudder as she levitates the crystal out of the room.

Rarity walks outside her Boutique, wondering where she should take the crystal. As she deliberates going to the hospital herself or getting help her herdmate Pinkie Pie pronks over. The mare is shuddering, her whole body shaking as she makes her way down the street. Rarity looks at her in concern as Pinkie Pie recovers, noticing Rarity. The unicorn says, "Pinkie Pie! Thank Celestia you are here!"

The earth pony perks up, saying, "Hi Rarity! Why wouldn't I be here? It's our night together! Although..." Pinkie Pie squats down, tapping her hoof on the ground, "Has anything... odd happened recently? Like, just now? I just got a Ear flop, then eye flutter, then knee twitch."

Rarity nods, "Well, it seems this essence crystal imbued Doug with some of the emotions that are felt inside it. I'm at a loss as to how, or what could be done to help him."

"Oooohhhh." Pinkie moves over, holding a hoof to her chin as she inspects the crystal. "Hmm... yes, four essences? And not the nice ones either, the mean ones. Well, there aren't really any nice ones, and these ones aren't particularly mean." Pinkie shrugs, tossing the crystal back in a nearby trash can, "Eh, could have been worse. Just keep him away from the crystal and his natural magic should purge his system."

Rarity stares at Pinkie Pie for a second before saying, "But, Pinkie, Doug doesn't have any natural magic. That's why this is a problem in the first place."

Pinkie Pie stares blankly at Rarity before she opens her mouth and eyes in shock. "You mean... Oh no! Is he safe? Did he try to hurt you?"

Rarity shakes her head, "No, I'm fine, he mostly cowered in fear, now that I think about it. Is he going to be okay?"

Pinkie taps her hoof against her chin, "Well, I'm not the expert in this, my sister Maud Pie is. She's working towards getting her rocktorate, I think she'd know what to do! I'll get a message to her right away!"

Rarity starts to say something but Pinkie Pie disappears in a cloud of streamers. She shakes her head, moving back inside the store and bringing the empty trash can with her, glaring at the crystal inside. She returns inside the storeroom; Doug is still in the same position, and her scan of his body shows that the influence is still there, and hasn't subsided. Fortunately it doesn't seem to be getting any worse, so she moves over, giving him a quick nuzzle. She stands, quickly moving to the box containing the other essence crystals and removing them from the room.

Doug continues shaking, cowering in fear as Rarity returns, the mare cuddling next to him. She quietly asks, "Would you prefer to move to the bed? Something more comfortable?" At his head shake she sighs, concentrating hard. A few pillows levitate into the room, and she sets a few around him and under his head. She runs her hoof through his mane, saying, "It's okay, Doug, everything will be all right."

Pinkie Pie enters the room, breathing a sigh of relief as she spots Doug and Rarity. "It's okay, Rarity, Maud is on the way." She looks at Doug, tilting her head back and forth. "So, when do I get to cuddle with him?"

An hour later, Pinkie Pie is resting her eyes as Doug has her tightly held in his arms. Rarity is laying behind him, occasionally rubbing her hoof along his back whenever he whimpers. A knock on the front door can be heard, and Rarity stands, whispering, "I'll be back," before leaving.

Rarity opens the front door, an earth pony with a gray coat, violet mane, and blue smock standing in the doorway. Rarity smiles, "Oh good, you got here! I'm Rarity; do come in."

The earth pony replies in a deadpan voice, "Hi," as she follows Rarity inside the store, "I'm Maud. Maud Pie."

Rarity looks nervously at Maud, "Well, I don't suppose you get called in for a lot of rock related emergencies?"

Maud replies, "Most ponies with rock related emergencies go to a hospital."

Rarity stares at Maud for several seconds before coughing, "Yes, well, Pinkie Pie apparently thought that getting you here was a better idea than going to the hospital. Also, Doug isn't a pony, so they might not have known what to do with him." Maud Pie stares at Rarity, remaining motionless. Rarity moves over to the trash can she put the quad essence in, levitating it out, "Do you know what this is?"

Maud Pie says, "Yes."

"Will you please elaborate?"

Maud nods, "It's an essence crystal containing four essences. Likely dug from the Badlands within the year, judging by the mix of anger, rage, hatred, and fear. Around the center, east side."

Rarity raises an eyebrow, looking back at Maud, "That's... exactly correct. How did you know?"

Maud Pie stares back at her, "I'm working on a rocktorate degree, specializing in crystals."

Rarity nods, "Excellent! So, Doug is being influenced by this crystal. He has no innate magical resistance, so it was able to invade his magical core, or at least, where his magical core would normally be. It's messing with his emotions, but not completely controlling him; what do we do?"

21 Ending the Torment

Maud Pie stares at Rarity before saying, "Purge the extra emotions into a Tabula Rasa."

Rarity slaps her hoof against her head, "Of course! Why didn't I think of that!"

Maud Pie deadpans, "Because you aren't getting a roctorate, specializing in crystals."

Rarity closes her eyes, sighing loudly. Several seconds later she opens her eyes, "Well, I don't think I have a blank slate around here. Do you know where to find one?"

"Yes," Maud Pie replies.

Rarity massages her forehead with her hoof, "How close is it, will you take me there, and what tools should we bring?"

Maud Pie, her voice as inflection-less as always, "Approximately fifteen minutes walk, yes, none."

"Thank you." Rarity nods to herself and starts gathering a few materials and saddlebags, making her way to the front door.

Pinkie Pie comes around the corner, exclaiming, "Oh! Maud Pie! You're here! I knew you would make it! How's my PSBFF?"

Maud deadpans, "Pinkie, I told you to stop calling me that."

Pinkie throws her hooves in the air, "What! But now that the Pie Sisters Best Friends Forever are together, we can get started! Hooray!"

Rarity says, "Yes, please, let's get started. Lead on, Maud!" Maud nods, the three mares walking out of the store. They make their way towards one of the quarries on the outskirts of the town, a bit of haste in two of the three mare's movements.

Several minutes pass before Starlight Glimmer arrives at the front of the store. The pink unicorn knocks on the door, frowning slightly as it swings open, the bell chiming. The unicorn glances inside, saying, "Hello? Is anypony there?" She cautiously walks inside, murmuring to herself, "Well, this is a store, and I didn't see a closed sign. I suppose it wouldn't hurt to-" Starlight spots the quad essence crystal laying on one of the tables, "Hello, what do we have here?" She moves a hoof to her chin, her eyes flaring a light turquoise as she scans the crystal. "Hmm. Solid matrix, decent pattern. Might store four cutie marks, doubt it could hold more than that. Especially with it already containing... something else."

Her eyes trace an invisible pattern through the air, the unicorn following the trail to the back storeroom. She cautious yells, "Hello? Anypony back there?" She hears a grunt, followed by the sounds of something shifting on the floor. She braces herself as she creeps up to the door, readying a shield and knockback spell. She breaths out, resting a hoof on her chest before moving forward.

The door bursts open, Starlight quickly taking a step back, her eyes glowing. Nothing happens; Starlight holds her position for several seconds. She slowly makes her way inside the storeroom, quick glances to the left and right. She looks further in, noticing something hiding behind a few of the boxes. Her horn flares as she creeps closer to find that Doug has shifted, curled into a ball in the far corner. Starlight sighs, dropping her spells and scanning again. Nothing else in the room. She spots the magical trail from the essence crystal leading into Doug and she shakes her head, "What are you doing in there? You should know better than to play with other ponies's toys." Her horn flares and Doug goes rigid, a smile briefly crossing Starlight's face. "There. No more struggling. Now let's get to work."

Starlight glances around the storeroom, looking for a suitable vessel to hold the essences. She picks up a few different gems with her magic and inspects them, unsatisfied with the results. She replaces a few of the large gems where she found them, glancing back and forth between two metal cans. She finally settles on a larger glass bottle, shrugging as she says, "Well, it won't hold for long, but with the right reinforcement it should work. Better to get you out and then work on a replacement, right?"

Her horn flares again, a steady beam that seems to drill straight into Doug's chest. He stays rigid, his eyes darting from Starlight's horn to the beam. A long wisp of yellow vapor seems to draw itself from his bare chest, gathering into a ball in front of Starlight. She levitates the glass bottle over, stuffing the yellow trail into the bottle before the hint of a blue wisp peeks out from his chest. She smiles, "Alright, one down, three to go. Unless there are more of you, hiding inside? Hmm, let's find out."

Starlight continues her work, drawing five more colored streams of vapor from Doug's chest before she frowns. "Is that it? I could have sworn there was one more." Her horn flares, the beam between Doug's chest and her horn glowing brighter. "Deep little bugger too, real solid attachment to- Oh! Wait, that might have been you. Doug. Your personality. That would have been bad." Doug grunts and Starlight's eyes go wide, "Oops! Forgot to turn that off." A glow surrounds Doug's body, his arms coming up and his hands rubbing his head.

Doug grimaces, shutting his eyes and letting out a low moan. He breaths in and out a couple times before glancing over towards Starlight, "Was that you? You got rid of the voices?"

"Yup, your friendly neighborhood Starlight Glimmer." Starlight nods, smiling at Doug. "So, I saw a quad essence crystal in the main area. Did that happen to be the crystal you wrote me about?" Doug nods, a pained expression still on his face, and Starlight frowns, "Well, I took a look at it. It's close, but not quite what I was looking for. Thanks for the help, though, even if it didn't pan out. Keep letting me know what you find and I guess we can call it even for this."

Doug tiredly nods, "Yeah, sure, no problem." He lays back down on the floor, massaging his head.

Starlight gives a sad smile, "Uh, I might have tried to pull, um, you out of your body. Your head will probably hurt for a little, maybe a day, but it should get better. Write me a letter if it doesn't. Also, probably better if you don't tell anypony I tried to do that to you." Starlight flinches as the front door can be heard opening. She says, "Also, if anypony asks, I was never here. Stay safe, oh, and if you do need to keep working on these essences, wear protection. I recommend a good pair of aviators."

Doug looks at her questioningly, shaking his head, "I'm not lying to anypony. And, sunglasses?"

Starlight nods, frowning, "Yup, the darker the better. Well, just don't bring me up, okay? I gotta run. See ya!"

Starlight Glimmer moves over to the door, glancing from side to side before quietly slinking away. A minute later Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Maud Pie walk into the room, hooves stomping loudly as they make their way into the storeroom. Doug is laying on the ground, eyes closed, and hand massaging his forehead. Maud Pie moves over to inspect the glass bottle, a hazy swirl of color inside, while Rarity rushes over to Doug, nuzzling him and asking, "Doug! Darling, are you all right?"

Doug moans, "Well, my head still hurts, but I feel a lot better. Do you know what happened?"

Rarity looks over at the bottle, puzzled. She says, "Well, I think that one or more of the essences managed to get into you, trying to influence your actions. Maud Pie came, being an expert on these kinds of things, and we went to get a crystal that will hold the emotions once they were drawn out of you. But, it appears somepony already did that."

Doug slowly shakes his head, "Ugh, I woke up on the floor with a severe headache, but feeling a lot more myself. My headache is slowly going away, too."

Maud Pie says, holding a large white crystal, "It is nice to see you better, Doug, but we should get the essences into this Tabula before they break free and corrupt you again."

Rarity moves over, "Okay, Maud, how do we do that?"

Maud holds the bottle to Pinkie Pie, "Pinkie, hold this and do nothing."

Pinkie gives Maud an odd look, "Are you sure you want me to do nothing?"

Maud deadpans, "Yes. Hold the bottle away from you and do nothing else."

Pinkie says, "Oooohhh. I can do that." Pinkie Pie takes a deep breath, moving over and taking the bottle from Maud's hooves, holding it as far away from her body as she can.

Maud looks over at Rarity, "Now, levitate the Tabula between Pinkie Pie and Doug."

Rarity lifts the Tabula Rasa, holding the large crystal between the two, "Like this?"

Maud Pie says, "Lower."

Rarity lowers the crystal, it nearly on the floor. "Better?"

Maud says, "Yes. Hold it still." She moves into position next to Pinkie Pie, turning around and centering her hind legs on the bottle Pinkie is holding out.

Rarity hesitantly asks, "Are you sure you know what you are doing?"

Maud deadpans, "Yes," before she rears up and gives the bottle a two hoofed kick, shattering it. The swirls of color bolt from her hooves, aimed directly at Doug. They each fly straight into the Tabula Rasa, the crystal gradually changing color as the essences swirl inside. They gradually slow down, getting dimmer and dimmer before the light coming from the Tabula winks out, the only glow from Rarity's magic levitating it.

Rarity breaths a sigh of relief before asking, "How did you know that would happen? Have you done this before?"

Maud shakes her head, "No. But I studied." She glances over at Pinkie Pie, the mare starting to turn blue. "Pinkie, you can move again."

Pinkie Pie breathes out a huge breath while saying, "Oh my gosh Maud that was amazing I don't think I've ever seen something like that happen before! You're incredible!"

Maud Pie shakes her head, "No, I'm Maud."

Doug moves to a sitting position, "Well, thank you for that, Maud. Your expertise has been invaluable." He winces, rubbing his head again.

Maud Pie nods, "Do you need any other help?" At the gathered ponies head shakes she says, "Good day," and turns, leaving the Boutique.

Outside the Boutique, Starlight Glimmer sits down, sighing loudly. Her venture has hit a rock in the road; if she doesn't find someplace to store the cutie marks, her whole experiment will be ruined. And a larger essence crystal definitely won't work, not even considering the amount of trouble actually acquiring an eight essence crystal would be. And even then she would be capped at twelve cutie marks. Well, maybe if she used an array of quad essence crystals? It would mean a lot of trips to the Badlands, or the Deep part of Ghastly Gorge. And not many ponies make it out of the Deep. Not solo, and she doesn't know if she can get Doug or anypony involved without compromising her plans. She starts wandering to the outskirts of Ponyville, hoping to find the cave and that 'Tabula' thing the gray pony had mentioned. Maybe she can find something there.

Maud Pie steps outside of the Boutique, brushing dust off her blue frock. She starts walking back to the area where they located the Tabula, hoping to get a little more research done for her Roctorate. As she starts mining a few of the more interesting samples a pink unicorn walks up to her, Starlight asking, "Psst! Do you know a lot about rocks?"

22 The Flow of Energy

December 30th, 995

Rainbow Dash loves flying more than anything else; well, with two possible exceptions. One of which is snuggling up next to her. The foal, well, almost a filly now, alternates between watching the stars partially obscured in the sky above and the city that is slowly growing larger and brighter in front of them. Rainbow slowly glides down towards Canterlot, the city gleaming like a beacon during the night. Scootaloo yawns as a few clouds move in between them and their destination, obscuring some of the details, but Rainbow can still make out the area where she is supposed to meet with Sunset Shimmer. Why the mare wants to keep things so clandestine, she still isn't sure. Maybe something to do with dark magic, like she mentioned a long time ago.

Rainbow waves as one of the pegasus patrols flies up to her, the ever vigilant watchponies keeping an eye on the skies and ground for anything out of the ordinary. As the pegasus glides next to her Rainbow says in a sleepy voice, "Evening! Great night to fly, isn't it?"

The guard pony replies neutrally, "Yes, it is. What brings you to Canterlot at this time of night, miss?"

Rainbow Dash rolls her eyes a little as she says, "Technically it's missus, if this little one didn't give it away." Scootaloo pokes her head out of the saddlebag Rainbow is carrying her in, the guard doing a quick roll to Rainbow's other side to get a better look. The guard looks at Rainbow suspiciously as Rainbow continues, "Rainbow Dash, from Ponyville. Mare in Herd Apple, just here for a little business, wanted to get here after I finished my shift." Rainbow sighs to herself, not sure why Sunset had insisted on making sure her story held together.

The guard looks down at Rainbow's cutie mark, jotting down a few notes before looking again at Scootaloo. "Long way to fly in the dark, even if Ponyville is one of the closer areas. She get tired along the way, and you just happen to bring your special saddlebags?"

Rainbow shakes her head, "No, Scootaloo here has difficulty flying. Part of the reason we're here, really."

The guard looks over at the foal, who gives a sleepy yawn, returning to her bag. The guard looks back at Rainbow, "So, do you and your foal need a place to stay? Or do have something already?"

Rainbow pulls out a slip of paper, trying to make out her chicken scratch hoofwriting, "Was planning a room at Starlit for the night. Thanks though."

The guard slowly nods her head, "Well, you might want to adjust your course a little south then, get there a little faster. Brown roofs, might be hard to see the orange banners, maybe as you get closer."

Rainbow gives a sad smile, "That obvious, huh?"

The guard shrugs her shoulders, "Well, you never know, even ponies who have grown up here have trouble sometimes. Stay safe!"

Rainbow Dash waves as the pegasus breaks away, returning to her patrol high in the skies. She berates herself; she shouldn't have been going straight to the meet up spot. She makes her way to the apartment complex; one quick conversation later and Rainbow has a room for the night, one she won't be using. She walks towards the castle, keeping to the side of the road but not quite in the shadows.

As she gets close, the lack of guards surprises her. In fact, very few ponies are out celebrating the new year, at least on the route she is taking. Back at the apartment complex it had been a bit more chaotic, Scootaloo waking from her brief nap to glare at the interruption. Sunset had given her fairly specific instructions, and Rainbow does a quick double check of the note she has. She walks up to a section of wall underneath Princess Celestia's tower, knocking her hoof three times against the hard stone. She waits a few moments before the space between two large shrubs along the wall glows, the letters 'Stand Here' softly illuminating the surrounding area. Rainbow shrugs, moving forward to the sign and standing in front of it.

The light on the wall goes out and Rainbow looks around, no longer able to see the sky. Or her hooves, for that matter. She nervously asks, "Hello?" and looks around her, trying to figure out what happened. A few globes of light turn on, bathing the area in a soft red glow. Rainbow walks forwards along the hallway, "Can you change the color to white? It's kinda hard to see."

Sunset Shimmer's voice rings out as she steps from a doorway, holding several pieces of parchment with her magic. "Sorry, Rainbow, red is easier on my eyes, especially for what we'll be doing."

Rainbow looks around as she steps through the doorway, "And, what exactly are we doing?" The storeroom is fairly bare, two tables in the center with a few pieces of cloth. There are scattered desks, boxes, and bookshelves, all pushed to the sides of the room to make room for the tables. There are a few machines Rainbow doesn't recognize, though one looks a little familiar.

Sunset Shimmer pauses, withdrawing a few lengths of silk and placing them one of the nearby tables. She motions with a hoof, "Place Scootaloo on that table, then lay down on this one." Rainbow hovers over to the table; Scootaloo hops out of the saddlebag, her wings flapping as she lands on the table. The straps lift in Sunset Shimmer's magic as she continues, "You see, Rainbow, you have a lot of excess thaumic capacity."

Rainbow raises an eye as she settles onto the other table, "And that means?" as straps of silk wrap around Scootaloo's hooves and tie her to the table. The foal looks to Rainbow with nervous eyes, who tries to give the foal a reassuring smile.

Sunset Shimmer sighs, "It means you have a lot of magic that you aren't making use of. You could do everything you currently do, including the Sonic Rainboom, with twenty percent less thaums. So, what I'm going to do is siphon some of that excess thaumic capacity and transfer it to Scootaloo."

A scared look comes over Rainbow's muzzle as straps wind their way around her hooves, tying her to the table. Rainbow tests the restraints, noticing just a little give. She asks, "Are you sure about this? Because I really, really like being able to fly."

Sunset Shimmer laughs, "Oh, getting cold hooves now, Rainbow? I thought you would do anything for Scootaloo." Anger flashes across Rainbow's muzzle as she tries to pull her hooves up, Sunset's magic pulling the straps tighter and fully restraining Rainbow. The unicorn moves over to Scootaloo, saying, "Alright, Scoots, try to lift your hooves for me." When the foal tries but is unsuccessful Sunset nods her head, looking back to Rainbow. "I'm certain this will work, Rainbow. Are you not as committed as I am? For your own foal?"

Rainbow glares at Sunset, "Just get on with it." Sunset nods, double checking the straps on Rainbow and Scootaloo before casting a spell that makes the cloth feel like steel. She sets up what Rainbow recognizes from the hospital as a thaumic resonator; Sunset flips it on, the air around the two pegasi illuminating. Rainbow is surrounded by a brilliant blue glow, waves of color emanating from her, a sharp contrast to the dark area surrounding Scootaloo. Faint lines can barely be seen coursing through the foals body, almost completely outshined by her dam sitting a few body lengths away.

Sunset smirks as she inspects the equipment, saying, "This spell was originally used to siphon the magic inherent in a pony and transfer it to the caster. However, that would be a little counterproductive; sure, I could use it to steal all of your pegasus magic, but what would I do with it? I don't have wings, or the neural pathways to make use of it. The only purpose would be to enhance my own body and frankly, I'm not that conceited."

Rainbow says under her breath, "Could have fooled me."

Sunset turns, shooting Rainbow a quick glare before continuing, "In fact, the only reason this procedure works at all is because your magic and Scootaloo's are near duplicates of each other. Any other pony, indeed, any other creature's body would start rejecting the magic as soon as you finished splicing it into them. It would be a slow process at first, barely noticeable, as the magic slips away. It might return to its previous owner, it might return to the aether, who knows? I'm certainly not going to start those experiments, not yet."

Sunset moves to the final piece of equipment, turning it on. "This is a mana battery; it will give me the sustained power I need to channel and anchor the spell into Scootaloo. You see, it is incredibly draining to use this spell if you are not using part of the power siphoned to keep the spell going. So, I have this battery that I spent the last few weeks pouring excess magic into. It will let me channel one hundred percent of the magic I drain from you into Scootaloo. I estimate I'll be taking about eight percent of your excess magic, give or take about half a percent."

A hopeful look finally comes over Rainbow's muzzle, "And then she'll be able to fly with me?"

Sunset pauses, considering, "Well, about as well as your herdmate Fluttershy. Never fast, but her endurance will be passable, and she'll have no trouble sleeping on clouds. Her control will be significantly worse than Fluttershy's, but enough that she shouldn't worry about crashing into things."

Rainbow nods, "Alright, let's do this." Sunset breaths deep, preparing herself as Rainbow asks, "Can I talk during this? And will it hurt?"

Sunset shakes her head, "Rainbow, you should barely feel anything. Maybe a slight pressure from all around, because I will need to hold all your magic in place. Scootaloo, you should feel stronger, less tired, but very gradual. You might not even feel anything at all, really. And yes, you can talk; but please, no shouting or anything too disruptive." Sunset takes another deep breath, a little perturbed at the interruption but thankful it came at a time when she could spare the concentration.

Rainbow and Scootaloo nod, both relaxing against their restraints. Sunset Shimmer moves to the mana battery, resting her hooves on the two leads running off the top. She slowly breaths out, then inhales sharply as her eyes light a brilliant opal. Her horn lights, flicking a switch on the battery, and starts glowing brighter and brighter as she concentrates on Rainbow. Flecks of white spill away from her hooves, a shower of sparks briefly blinding the pegasi in the otherwise dark interior.

The aura of magic surrounding Rainbow Dash slowly shrinks, drawn together as if pushed from all sides. The sparks shooting from Sunset Shimmer fade as she concentrates on the area between the two pegasi. The light around Rainbow Dash dims slightly as a bright thread of color starts pulling away from the outer halo, stretching towards Scootaloo. Rainbow lies still, a contented smile on her muzzle as she watches the color around her. The foal watches with wide eyes as the thin thread draws closer and closer, finally slipping into her chest without so much as a ripple.

The foal smiles, looking down at her hooves as color continues to swirl around and into her. Sunset Shimmer keeps a neutral look as she focuses on continuing the siphon, the strain on her own magic beginning to get to her. It is starting to get a little more difficult, but nothing she can't manage. She focuses on the incision she made, keeping it open and letting the magic flow through. Seconds later, and Sunset Shimmer frowns as her hooves remain in contact with the battery; the rate of magic flowing out of Rainbow is increasing - the rate of increasing is accelerating - she needs to taper it down, keep the cut open but she is losing control; there must be a tear, maybe if she-

The wall shatters inward, pieces of stone littering the ground. Princess Celestia strides through the cloud of dust, fully armored and eyes blazing her brilliant blue. Her blazing combat aura illuminates the room in a harsh white as she surveys the remains of the ritual - a haggard unicorn shaking in the corner and two pegasi strapped to the tables, surrounded by a spreading haze of magic. Princess Celestia's aura fades as she says, "Sunset Shimmer? What have you done!"

Her reply is drowned out as Rainbow lets loose an excruciating wail.

23 Lost in the Pages

Princess Celestia's expression hardens and magic flares as she realizes the predicament in front of her. In an instant she has Rainbow Dash incapacitated, yet there is still agonizing pain in her unseeing eyes. She needs to find the tear, and fast, the rapidly leaking magic tormenting the pegasus, writhing even in her unconsciousness. The mare's foal, Scootaloo, is strapped to a table, looking towards her dam with anguish in her eyes, though she seems to be unharmed physically. One guard is moving towards Scootaloo, to remove the foal from her restraints, while another guard moves towards Sunset Shimmer, spear draw. The unicorn has wisely chosen to lay down next to a two thirds charged mana battery, holding her hooves to the sides.

The guard slaps a nullifier on the unicorn's horn, but it does nothing to silence her screaming, "CELESTIA DAMN IT! YOU'VE RUINED IT!! YOU-" before she is silenced, her mouth continuing to form words.

Her spell cast, Princess Celestia ignores Sunset Shimmer, instead watching the illumination of the thaumic resonator. The blue aura around Rainbow Dash is ragged, one section where faint trails of color are moving away from the pegasus' body and dissipating into nothing. She studies it for a moment longer before saying, "Flash! Fly to Canterlot Memorial, alert them of an impending emergency, thaumic leakage. Go!" He snaps a salute before taking wing, flying off into the night.

Princess Celestia exhales as she casts, a brilliant blue aura overlapping the light around Rainbow Dash. The leakage slows, crawling to a halt. Rainbow's body stops thrashing against her restraints as movement from the side catches Princess Celestia's eye. She glances over; Sunset Shimmer is frantically waving her hoof, her mouth continuing to move. Princess Celestia gives her a hard look as the glow around Sunset's mouth fades, the unicorn yelling, "-ase! I can help her, you need to trust me! I know what needs to be done!"

Princess Celestia shakes her head, the glow around Sunset Shimmer's mouth reappearing and the unicorn silenced once again. Princess Celestia shakes her head, "No, Sunset Shimmer, you have inflicted enough damage this night. Spear and Meadow, take Sunset Shimmer to the dungeon, and await my further orders." Rage flashes over Sunset's face as she struggles against the two guards.

Princess Celestia turns back to Rainbow Dash as the earth pony and pegasus escort Sunset Shimmer out of the room. The unicorn continues resisting, able to knock the guards to the side for a moment before they rush her again. She tries again, attempting to push the guards back and forth as she glares at Celestia. The Princess inspects Rainbow Dash, ignoring the unicorn for the moment; the leakage has stopped, but there is still a microscopic leak between the barrier she made and the pegasus' natural boundaries. The unicorn doctors will need to see her as soon as possible, and she can't risk a teleport. Scootaloo appears to be doing better, a worried look on the foal's face as she moves past the one third charged battery, holding a hoof up to her dam and trying to-

Wait, one third charge? Where did the other-

An explosion from the hallway outside the room nearly breaks Princess Celestia's concentration; she sighs, focusing on keeping the aura surrounding Rainbow Dash intact; hopefully her guards are competent enough to subdue one nullified unicorn, even if she is one of her more powerful students. She levitates Rainbow Dash, quickly flying outside and towards Canterlot Memorial.

A team of unicorns are mustering outside, watching with glowing eyes as Princess Celestia flies over, a still frozen Rainbow Dash encased in a blue aura. Princess Celestia sets Rainbow Dash on the waiting gurney, saying, "Doctors, Rainbow Dash is unconscious in a level two stasis, two minutes and ten seconds remaining from when I stop talking. She is still leaking thaums at an alarming rate; I have a class three shield, extremely fine grade, and a class two detector running, keeping the magic intact and visible. You'll need to recreate the shield and contain the released magic as best you can. I am needed elsewhere, and will drop my spells as soon as I take flight. Keep her safe!"

Princess Celestia turns, one of the doctors starting a timer spell and another creating a green aura surrounding the blue aura around Rainbow Dash. Satisfied, the alicorn turns, taking a few steps, lifting off into the air before cancelling her spells and teleporting back to the castle.

Princess Celestia arrives in a burnt hallway, two stunned guards on either side of her. She quickly scans, noting that the guards are alive but unconscious; by the looks of it, from a sleep spell. The burn marks on the surrounding walls form an outline of where they were standing when the blast went off; however, there are no marks on their armor, and Princess Celestia notes one of Rarity's anger essences on the front. She smiles, glancing down at the destroyed inhibitor before adopting a stern expression, scanning again and teleporting to her throne room.

Princess Celestia yells, "Stop!" as Sunset Shimmer places a black book behind her, stepping up to the horseshoe shaped magic mirror Princess Celestia had placed in her throne room for safe keeping. The unicorn is wearing saddlebags that look to be packed full, a large brown book with a sun cutie mark peeking out of one of them.

Sunset turns, "Princess Celestia! Why did you keep this magic from me? You know that I can hoof it, that I can prove how powerful I am by using it!

Princess Celestia retorts, two guards coming to her sides, "Sunset Shimmer, my student, you could be powerful. I thought I saw altruism and hope in you, but it was nothing but ambition. You need to come with me, we can fix-"

Sunset cuts her off, telekinetically throwing the black book towards Princess Celestia, the alicorn blocking it with a shield, "You think that I'm selfish? That journal shows that what I intended, that what I was doing would eclipse the power of an Alicorn Princess! I could rule here with that kind of power, and you are the one being selfish, denying me my rightful place by your side!" Sunset opens her journal with her magic, flipping through the pages and displaying her notes on the spell, "I deserve to stand beside you as an alicorn. Make me a Princess!"

Celestia glares, "No. Sunset, you do not know all that it takes to become a Princess. I have tried to teach you, but you have thrown away all my lessons and instead walked a path of your own creation. You have not put forth the effort to learn the lessons that are truly important, and you show that even now through your actions." Princess Celestia rears to her full height, spreading her wings, "Sunset Shimmer, you are banished from the castle. You may stay in Canterlot, but you are no longer my student. I hope one day we will be able to reconcile this, and perhaps you will be able to return."

Sunset glares back at Celestia, "No; we'll never reconcile this because you don't recognize the power that is inherent in these spells, that you have decreed too dark to research because you are afraid of the outcome! Is that what you really want? For me to come begging back, your faithful student once again?" Sunset spits on the floor, turning again towards the mirror.

Princess Celestia settles back down on her hooves, wings returning to her sides, "Sunset, do not go through with this. The guards will escort you out of the castle, we will fix what happened to Rainbow Dash."

Sunset Shimmer shakes her head, "I don't think so. Tell Rainbow Dash, 'twenty percent'. She'll know what it means," and steps into the mirror, the shimmering surface rippling as her body passes through. The clock tower outside strikes midnight as the guards rush forward. One of them tentatively puts a hoof to the solid surface as Princess Celestia shakes her head. The portal to the mirror universe is now closed, and will be for another thirty moons.

Princess Celestia looks at the guards still inspecting the mirror. "Do not bother," she says, "Return to your posts, tell the others to stand down. Bring me news of Rainbow Dash as soon as you can; she is at Canterlot Memorial Hospital." The guards bow before exiting the throne room, closing the doors behind them.

Now alone, Princess Celestia picks up the journal laying crumpled on the ground, several sheets bent from the impact. She flips through the pages towards the beginning; so far, it looks to be ways to modify Tirek's spell, the abomination against harmony that sapped ponies of their magical power, the dark magic that earned the centaur his banishment to Tartarus. She gets to the front page, labeled:

Research Notes - A Manifesto
Sunset Shimmer

'To whomever may find this journal - please, deliver this journal to Princess Celestia, and no pony else. Read no further, for I wish for no pony besides myself to be condemned with banishment to Tartarus.

To Princess Celestia, and whatever pony is stupid and foalish enough to continue reading despite my warning:'

The page ends, Princess Celestia turning to the next page of the journal. She notices at this point the enchantment laid on the pages; to her own eyes, the pages appear normal. But in the reflection of her gilded shoes, or if she took her hoof off the journal for a moment, the words dissolve into the page, new letters appearing that detail a remarkably boring life, filled with resentment over the Princess 'forcing' her to do tedious tasks like go to parties and hang out with other ponies.

Princess Celestia places her hoof back on the journal, the manifesto continuing,

'When I first heard of Tirek's spell, the dark magic capable of draining other ponies of their magic, I knew there had to be applications other than that born of a selfishness to become more powerful. However, you, Princess Celestia, decreed that no pony should have access to the magic, presumably to prevent a second Tirek from rising and attempting to accomplish what the first did not. I also assumed that you had taken safeguards to insure that this did not happen again, though what form I could not identify. At first I assumed you didn't even bother to protect the spell itself, though our encounter after my trip to the Dark Magic section of the archives proved otherwise. I was sure you knew, but you allowed to me continue regardless. I thought that if I came to you, asking for help or assistance you would discourage me, or worse, banish me for the simple crime of thinking that I could better all of ponykind through this avenue of research. Maybe you would prove me wrong, but I could not take that chance. I think the very fact that you are reading this justifies my fear of involving you.

My goal was simple; I wanted to create a spell that would permanently boost the power of one pony. If it could be done without harming another pony, either short term or long term, perfect. If the magic must come from another pony, then it should be a willing donor. My research showed the latter to be the case, and that is where I proceeded.

As to the spell in question, all of my work is theoretical; in my research I never attempted casting the spell, even without a target. The spell itself, at least my final creation, is highly modular. The most basic version, the one that Tirek used, drains one pony of all but the barest minimum of magic needed to sustain life. The caster provides the first burst of magic, and the spell uses most of the magic drained to continue draining - a self-sustaining process, at least until the target runs out of magic. The caster gains the remaining portion of that magic, either as reserves for more powerful spells and drains, or to boost physical attributes such as speed, size, or strength.

The first variable I worked on removed the single target limitation, allowing the spell to drain multiple targets at once. This was more for curiosity, as it would be one of the easier changes to make, as well as giving me needed practice at modifying the spell on a theoretical level. The change would barely impact the efficacy of the spell compared to using the single target, and the time saving makes it a much more efficient choice. On a single pony, or especially one whose power is near the limit of what one is able to drain, it is worth using the single target version.

The second variable I tried changing was the duration the power is 'borrowed'. You see, the drain is not permanent; as long as the target is living, the magic drained wants to return. It will be a slow process, taking months, but one's body and magical core cannot store magic that is not its own, at least not permanently. A small amount leaks, and the drained target will slowly regain their strength. Theoretically, even if the target is deceased, the spell will still leak, but to no particular location. Ultimately I was unable to modify the spell satisfactorily in the general sense. This limitation is, however, able to overcome, but only in a very specific circumstance.

The third variable I attempted changing was the source of the magic; in other words, the direction of the flow of magic. It is possible to use Tirek's spell to empty one's self of magic, again to the barest minimum to sustain life, and empower another pony with that magic. The recipient must be ready for drastic outcomes: possibly uncoordinated or uncontrolled releases of magic as they literally no longer know their own power. This version should also be readily reversible, at least once the recipient of the magic has recharged whatever they expended; it may even be possible to boost a non-unicorn or alicorn, but one may have difficulty returning the magic. Theoretically it should work without doing so; this version also suffers from the same limitation as the regular spell, letting the donor recharge their magic on their own as their magic is slowly released from the recipient. However, because the magic is given willingly, there is nearly no magic lost, the recipient gaining nearly the full power of the donor.

Donating magic, however, was not an option as neither pony in question is a unicorn, and the transfer needed to be permanent. Withdrawing magic from one pony and donating it to a second at a later time is not an option, as the 'stolen' magic immediately integrates with the caster's. The only way to keep the magic from returning is to trick the recipient's magical core into thinking that the infusion of magic is, in fact, their own magic. However, like no two ponies have the same experiences, no two ponies share a magical core. Even identical twins are different enough to get separate, if remarkably related, cutie marks, and the magical core recognizes this and would eventually reject the offending magic.

However, there exist, to my knowledge, three exceptions to this rule. Because of their unique sire, the magical cores of the mares of Herd Apple are nearly identical to those of their foals, though whether they will share a cutie mark is unknown but doubtful, as cutie marks form from experiences as well as magical potential. Should my calculations be correct, then Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo will be the first of three experiments to transfer a portion of the dam's magic to the foal. It is ultimately unclear what will happen to the dam's magic; it is possible that she will recover all of her potential over time. The more likely scenario is that the drained magic will never recover, leaving the net amount of magic between the two ponies the same. Regardless of the ultimate outcome, either is acceptable for Rainbow Dash, as long as the boost for Scootaloo is noticeable and permanent.

The last variable I attempted to change, purely to know how dangerous the spell could be, and knowing that the results could land me banishment to Tartarus, is whether or not the spell can continue to drain past the minimum needed to sustain life. The answer should be evident to you, Princess, as I have destroyed all my notes on the matter.

Your ~~student~~, now and ever,
Sunset Shimmer'

Princess Celestia rises, a tear forming in her eye as she looks at the horseshoe shaped mirror. She whispers, "Oh Sunset, how could we have misjudged each other so?" She turns, walking outside the throne room, passing a depiction of Nightmare Moon's banishment and saying to herself, "Another of the biggest mistakes of my life."

24 Epilogue: Four Years Later

June 30th, 1000 Domina Solaria

The sun shines bright, high in the sky, as clouds start disappearing. Doug gives a puzzled look as he raises his eyes, the scattered cloud layer no longer providing small amounts of shade to the Apple Family gathering. He glances at the small mountain of empty plates in front of him; there is no way he ate all the food that the Apples had placed in front of him. They had piled the food so high he couldn't even see the other side of the table. And now, a large stack of empty plates and a few glasses, still blocking his view. He glances off to the side, a smiling flickering across his face; well, it looks like he, in fact, had help to finish that labor.

Laying on the ground around the table, bellies only slightly distended, are his eight foals. It looks like Apple Bloom also decided to help him with the feast, the filly no longer standing with Applejack and instead cuddling next to her sisters Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo. The trio are napping, along with the rest of the foals, and Doug smiles over at Applejack, patting his full stomach, "Well, better let them get their rest, right? Especially if they are going to stay up all night for the Summer Sun Celebration tomorrow."

As Doug gets up to leave a mare stops him, "Hey! You didn't finish your meal! Especially my part, I know it's your favorite!"

Doug sighs, "Alright, Apple Cider, just give me a moment." He grimaces, opening and shutting his mouth before sticking his tongue out and breathing heavily. He pinches his nose as Apple Cider laughs, lightly punching his arm with a hoof. He laughs, "Okay, fine, here we go." He smiles, bringing the glass of cider to his mouth. He swishes the liquid around in his mouth; it is much sweeter and less alcoholic than the cider Applejack normally makes, but maybe it's just the cider they leave around when the foals might get into it. "Wow, this is really good stuff. Nice job, all of you!" Doug nods to the collected ponies; they smile and nod back before breaking off to continue their preparations.

Doug finishes the cider off, Apple Cider grinning at him; he stands, moving over to the foals. He bends down, lifting Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle and laying them gently onto Applejack's back. He lifts Scootaloo as Rainbow Dash lands next to him, stumbling a little on her landing. She grimaces, "Hey, Doug, uh, we might have a little biiit of a problem," and scratches the back of her head.

Doug turns, and Rainbow beams a large smile up at him. He sighs, "What did you do?" as he holds Scootaloo's limp form out.

Rainbow positions the filly between her wings, "Well, I miiight have met up with the Summer Sun Celebration Organizer that Canterlot sent over. And she maaay have dared me to clear the skies, even though they aren't supposed to be clear yet. So, we got any spare clouds? Or ideas?"

Doug sighs as he picks up Hedge, placing Fluttershy's filly next to Scootaloo. Rainbow takes flight, hovering a foot off the ground and holding her forelegs out. Doug picks up Pomarbo, placing Applejack's youngest and the only colt in their herd into Rainbow's waiting hooves. Doug scoops up Applebaum, Lemon, and Meringue, carrying them in his arms. Applejack, Rainbow, and Doug make their way back to the farmhouse, Doug saying, "Well, you leave any clouds over the Everfree?" Rainbow shakes her head, "How about the aquifer? The lake?"

"Nope. I might have cleared all of them too."

"Wait, so you just burst over three dozen clouds? Scattered all around town?"

Rainbow nods, "Yup, in ten seconds flat!"

Doug purses his lips, nodding his head up and down, "Hmm. Impressive. So, with all the water still in the air, you might be able to reform a couple, old school. Or just leave it, and the water vapor will keep everything a little cooler than it would be otherwise. Still warm, but not overly so."

"Alright, cool, figured everything would be fine. Awesome." The three make their way into the farmhouse, Rainbow pulling back a little and whispering to Applejack, "Hey, you know what I noticed about the organizer?" Applejack smirks, returning a knowing smile and nodding. Rainbow continues, "Definitely four of five," as Doug opens the front door. "Might even be all five, since she was sent by the Princess!"

Applejack whispers back, "Now, what'll it take to get them together?"

Doug looks at the game still out in the living room. He carefully walks around the scattered pieces, neither mare taking a chance of stepping on them. He comes back from the foal's room empty handed, taking Hedge, Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle. Applejack gives him a quick nuzzle before heading back outside, much more food to prepare.

Rainbow hovers up, the high ceilings in the farmhouse allowing her to get past the game. Doug places the three fillies next to Pinkie Pie's two and Applejack's middle foal, smiling at the growing pile of ponies. Rainbow quietly laughs as she places Scootaloo and Hedge into the middle, the tiny wings of the pegasi fluttering once and dropping back to their sides.

The clop of hooves outside the farmhouse signal Pinkie Pie's return to the house, the mare dashing around looking for something. Rainbow moves over, saying quietly, "Hey, Pinkie, the foals are napping. What are you looking for?"

"Mane Paint. Where did you put it? I can't find it."

"Oh, that stuff?" Rainbow hums, "I think it's in my house. Want me to grab it?"

Pinkie Pie nods, "Good. Yes. Bring it to the library."

Rainbow looks at Pinkie Pie, "The library? Why the library?"

Pinkie Pie, exasperated at the delay and having to stay quiet, "Because that's where she's staying! Come on, move move move! We don't have much time!"

Rainbow sighs, "Yeah, alright, sure. Anything else?"

Pinkie Pie shakes her head, "No, I got the masks all ready, just need a bit more treats. Oh, you still have that hot sauce you got?"

"The fire stuff? Oh yeah, I can grab that too."

Pinkie Pie nods, "Alright, I'll get that all set. Where'd you see her last?"

Rainbow shrugs, "Rarity got her hooves on her, maybe fifteen minutes ago? The SSCO looked to be in a bit of a mess. Heh. Totally not my fault."

Pinkie Pie nods, pronking outside. Rainbow looks over at Doug, "You got the girls?"

Doug nods, "Yup, I'll bring the trio over after dinner. Sugarcube?"

Rainbow nods, "Yeah, it might be SC, it might be the library. Plan now on library for now, I'll let you know if it changes." Rainbow and Doug share a quick kiss before Rainbow flies to her house, gallons of Mane Paint to gather.

Pinkie Pie pronks through Ponyville, making sure the decorations along the way to the Boutique are all in order. She pokes her head inside, seeing Rarity paging through her dresses. A purple mare with a six star cutie mark sits in the corner, head stuck inside one of Rarity's mane stylers. A small purple dragon is sitting in the corner, alternating between staring at an upside down magazine and peeking above it, leering at Rarity. Pinkie Pie sneaks over to Rarity, whispering, "Hey, Rarity."

A surprised Rarity looks over at Pinkie; she whispers back, "Pinkie Pie? What is it?"

Pinkie Pie nervously looks over at the mare, the dragon, then back at Rarity, "I need you to stall her a liiittle longer."

Rarity sighs, "But I found the perfect combination for her! I just need to wait for her mane to finish, then she'll be on her way."

Pinkie shakes her head, "No, I need more time. I need to get all the ponies ready for tonight, and set up the party, and get the overnight games done. And all before she heads back to the library!"

The purple mare says, "Did somepony say library?"

Pinkie clasps her hooves over her mouth, "I've said too much already! Just keep her occupied, do whatever you have to do. Flirt with the dragon for all I care. Bye!"

Rarity puts a hoof to her mouth, considering her dresses, as a large smile begins creeping over her face. "Hmm, dear, what do you think about this combination?" Rarity pulls out a green dress and a spiky green hat, "I'm sure it will look fabulous!"

2 Family Planning

January 15th, 995

Doug sighs as he sets down his pencil. Another day of work complete; for most pegasi, crafting a weather schedule is tedious work that hurts their brain, with too many variables and things to consider. Too many pieces interacting with each other, and too many requests to change one of those variables with no consideration to how it will affect the rest of the system. Doug, however, thrives on the complexity; he doesn't really care for the last minute requests, but still tries to accommodate the farmponies. It's part of the reason that so many of the towns hired his 'Cold Digger' persona to create their weather schedules for them, leaving the weather ponies in those towns or cities to work the weather, their true love.

Doug doesn't mind, and the pay is good, but it does take him away from his family. At least he can work from home, and set his own hours. He looks out of his office; Applejack and Pinkie Pie are happily playing with Apple Bloom, bouncing a ball between the three. Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo are playing some card game; it looks to be the memorization or recall game he taught them, based on how closely Rainbow and Scootaloo are staring at the cards. Fluttershy is in the kitchen, cleaning up dinner now that everypony has eaten. Many of her animals are hibernating or have flown south, and the remainder are welcome to stay in the farmhouse when the pegasus stays here instead of her cottage.

Doug sighs as he goes back to the papers in front of him. Might as well get a head start on tomorrow's work; many are reports from the surrounding areas, letting him know how well the schedules he crafts are working. There are far fewer hiccups this year than last winter, his first winter as scheduler. Other letters are complaints, generally from Manehatten, or compliments, from most other areas; these letters, while nice, are generally less informative than the reports, but still appreciated.

A nuzzle near Doug's elbow draws his attention away from the papers; he smiles as he turns, lifting his arm and allowing Rainbow to poke her head next to him and take a look at the papers on the desk. She rolls her head as he scratches her ears, smiling up at him. Doug says, "Did I ever thank you for helping me out with all this? And finding this job in the first place?"

Rainbow pushes her head against his hand, "Only every time you get me in here. Speaking of, some of the rest of the herd wants to talk this evening." She coos as he begins rubbing behind one ear, though she grunts when his hand briefly leaves her head.

Doug picks up the next letter, opening it as he asks, "Right now or just tonight?"

Rainbow turns her head, looking outside the room. "Um, I think soon. Sounds like they're giving the foals a bath right now, so after that." She turns, hopping into Doug's lap and cuddling up next to him as he continues making notes and opening letters.

Several minutes later, Fluttershy sticks her head in the doorway, "Um, Rainbow and Doug? You busy?" Rainbow gives a quiet whine as Doug shifts his body, though smiles as his arms grip her, squeezing her barrel before giving her a soft push. She hops off his lap as Applejack and Pinkie Pie walk into the room.

Applejack starts, "Doug, this may come as no surprise to you, but Pinkie Pie wants to have a foal this year."

Doug nods, "Yup, figured that would happen." He turns, looking at Pinkie Pie, "I'm curious, I could have sworn you were interested in having a foal last year, before your heat started. Why didn't you want to join the herd early enough then?"

Pinkie Pie shrugs, "Oh, Spoiled Rich didn't want me to join to see if you just wanted me to join because you wanted more mares to have foals with, or if you liked me for me."

Doug stares at Pinkie Pie for a moment before a flat, "Really," escapes his lips.

Rainbow Dash puts a hoof on her forehead, "Um, Pinkie, I don't think you were supposed to tell him that."

Pinkie Pie brings her hooves up to her shoulders, "What? But he passed, he was fine with it." She starts counting on her hooves, "It's not a surprise that I'm spoiling, and she didn't ask me to keep it a secret." Pinkie Pie throws her hooves into the air, looking around at the other mares in the room, "She just didn't want me to tell him during the test, and he passed!"

Doug shakes his head, "Man, I thought we were done with all of that nonsense."

Rainbow looks from side to side, "Well, it might kinda sorta be my fault on that. I might have agreed to it back when I went to her mansion last year." Rainbow moves over, a sad look in her eyes, as she raises her hooves. Doug smiles at Rainbow, raising his arms and inviting her over with his head. Rainbow smiles, moving over and embracing Doug. As she settles against him, she breathes out, saying, "Oh pony, it feels good to let that out. I hate having to keep secrets from you."

Doug scratches her head, saying, "I believe that. Any other secrets I should know about?"

Rainbow pushes back enough to put a hoof on her chin, "Hmm. Can't think of anything. You girls?"

Each mare shakes their head, Doug saying, "Well, know that you can tell me anything. Speaking of secrets, we probably want to tell Princess Celestia about this." Rarity walks into the room, placing curlers into her damp mane. Doug continues, "Do we know what exactly she is trying to figure out?"

The mares look at each other before Rarity adds, "Well, from what Princess Celestia explained to me, she is trying to figure out how you got us pregnant. What with being a different species, and having no magic. She's hoping that by researching and figuring that out she will be able to use those results to allow her, or more likely Princess Cadance, to have foals of their own. In the past, any union the Princesses attempted were... halted, and Princess Celestia suspects it has to do with their alicorn magic interacting with non-alicorn magic."

Doug nods, "Well, I can get behind that." He winks at Pinkie, who winks back at him. "Should we just write her a letter, or?"

Applejack coughs, "Well, we might need to tell her about one more."

Doug raises an eyebrow, "Oh?" as he looks between Applejack and Fluttershy.

Fluttershy shakes her head, hiding behind her mane as Applejack says, "Well, Ah wanted to have another foal." Doug watches pensively as she continues, "Ah just, Ah love you, Doug, and Ah want to show you that love. And Ah've seen how you take care of Apple Bloom, and Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. Ah think you make an excellent sire, and Ah'm glad to be going through this with you." She pauses before saying, slightly downcast, "And if Ah'm being completely honest here, Ah'm also doing it to spite Spoiled Rich, rub it in her face a little."

Doug laughs, saying, "Well, I can understand that. Applejack, you... well, you probably know how happy that makes me."

Applejack nods, moving forward. Rainbow moves to the side as Applejack steps up, sharing a kiss as Pinkie Pie walks behind her. Pinkie steps up next, sharing a kiss as well. Doug looks over at her, "Pinkie, I'm glad you are comfortable with this as well." Pinkie Pie nods as Fluttershy and Rarity sit next to each other, smiling at the three. Doug looks at Rainbow, saying, "Rainbow? You reconsidered yet?"

Rainbow shakes her head, "Still going to hold off. Maybe if Scootaloo was doing better, but I really want to get back to flying competitively. I think I'm going to stop taking on the extra shifts, too; it's cutting into my training too much, and we don't need the bits as much as before."

Rarity adds, "I agree; to be perfectly honest, I think we should stop the extra hospital visits for the foals. We haven't noticed any change, and they don't have any ideas for what we can do to make things better. It's just been us three coming up with training plans."

Doug considers, "Well, you three are the ones dealing with it more than me, I'm happy to take that recommendation. Rarity, you holding off this coming season as well?" Rarity nods and Doug turns to Fluttershy, "And you, 'Shy? How are you doing?"

Fluttershy comes out from behind her mane a little, "Oh, um, I... I don't know. I want to have a foal, but I think that three foals at a time is too many."

Doug smiles at each mare, "Well, three at once is a little much, I agree." He picks up a quill and parchment, speaking as he writes,

'Dear Princess Celestia and Princess Cadance, Applejack and Pinkie Pie are planning on having a foal this year. We estimate their heats will start in late February, so we are tentatively scheduling their conception on March 3rd. We will let you know if our plans change. Hope for the best, Doug and the Mares of Herd Apple'

He looks at the letter in his hands, "Hmm. Do you think I should include their full titles?"

Applejack shakes her head, "Ah think you should have put 'Mares of Herd Apple' first on the signature line."

Doug thrusts the paper and quill at Applejack, "Well, just put your mark above my name or something." He smirks as Applejack sighs, dabbing ink on her hoof and placing an ink horseshoe above and on top of Doug's name.

Rarity giggles as Applejack looks around the room, waiting for somepony else to help take the ink off her hoof. The farmpony says, "What? What did Ah do? Ah just put my mark!"

Rainbow Dash smirks, "You signed the paper like a celebrity, doofus, right on top of the letter, the thing you are signing? That's for, like, the Wonderbolts and Princesses."

Rarity adds, "Or stuck up noble-ponies. Oh, dear Applejack, I never knew!" She swoons, a hoof going to her forehead as she looks up at the ceiling, "Think of all the dresses that we can make together, now that you've finally embraced the noble lifestyle of the nobles!"

Applejack quails, "No! Ah didn't mean it!" She swipes at the letter, Doug pulling it away just in time. She sets her hoof on the floor, chasing after Doug as he darts outside the room, a trail of single hoofprints leading towards the kitchen. Applejack can be heard yelling, "Give it here! Now! Ah said git!" as Rarity takes a towel and a bottle of ink remover, cleaning up the trail as sounds of wrestling can be heard from the kitchen.

14 A Valuable Combination

Celestia's sun beats down on the barren landscape surrounding Dodge City. For miles to the south and west barely anything can be seen as the land slowly rises to the Macintosh Hills, marking the boundary between the Badlands and the rest of Equestria. To the east lay the Hayseed Swamps, a treacherous bayou filled with dangers, though supposedly not as bad as the Everfree forest. The Hayseed Swamps also border the Badlands to the northeast, this time separated by the Badland Mountains.

The Badlands themselves are a desolate wasteland. They are nearly devoid of life from the lack of water and volatile leylines. The area lacks access to shipping routes mostly from the mountainous terrain but also from the flux of magic in the area. It isn't enough to injury a pony that spent a day or a week or even a year in the area, but tales are told of ponies who slowly grow more and more out of touch with reality as their minds are slowly corrupted. Not to evil or nefarious purposes, but instead the mundane lack of purpose and absentmindedness one might expect from an elderly great grandsire. Seeing it in a pony who has just received a cutie mark makes even the most stalwart of frontiersmares pause and beat a hasty retreat.

Those same attributes are what makes the Badlands a tempting location for any brave or foolhardy enough to venture forth. The constantly fluctuating leylines creates caches of gems, and exposing those gems to the same leyline merely increases the size of the gem, barely affecting its value or usefulness. However, if a gem is exposed to the fluctuations of a different leyline then a whole new host of possibilities arise. However, expose a gem to too many different leylines and the possibilities grow sentient.

The Badlands is one of a few areas that contains both necessary qualities. The constantly fluctuating leylines create the gems and wreck havoc on magical creatures, allowing the gems to grow and absorb the magical qualities that make them so valuable. The number of leylines in the area make it better for the gems and worse for ponies: a pony can slowly adjust their thaumatic frequencies, 'tuning' themselves to a single area's flux and slowly becoming immune to the magical chaos present nearly everywhere in Equestria. Gems, however, merely soak up the magic like a soup soaks up spices.

Many of these combinations are worth no more than the more valuable of the individual essence. After all, a gem that, when properly enchanted, allows one to both hover through air easier and glide through water quicker is only more valuable to a sunken treasure hunting pegasi, and both of them already have one.

Rarity is looking for gems that fit one of two categories. First, she is looking for gems that can be used in her everyday dress crafting or her higher end crafting for Canterlot clients. Which, truth be told, is just about any gem; they all have their uses somewhere in the spectrum, even if it might mean shaving them down and using them as an outline. She might even barter them to some of the other crafters in Ponyville who are unable to make the trip to the Ghastly Gorge or the Badlands, and instead import the gems they need, the imbued ones at a hefty markup.

The second, and more important, category are those for a special order she has received from the Canterlot guard. They are looking to create a new armor for the elite guard assigned to protect Princess Celestia and Princess Cadance. The centerpiece of the armor will be a gem with an anger essence, enchanted to give resistance to fire. Or a wrath essence, giving resistance to lightning; or a doubt essence, giving the wearer increased agility. Really, any of the gems that could be enchanted versus the more common elemental attacks and either toughness or agility. The special essences Rarity is looking for allow the layering of additional enchantments, based on the essences that they find.

For ponies whose talents lie in enchanting gems, one can only enchant a gem a single time, to provide some ability such as fire resistance or disguise. However, the essences allow the addition of additional enchantments, based on the types of magic the gem absorbed. Those specialized in the area also find it easier to work with gems that are already aligned with the type of enchantment they will receive. Certain enchantments, such as the one on the royal guard armor to disguise the pony underneath, are the most obvious choice to layer and require using powerful unicorn or alicorn level magic. The disguise spells are closely regulated, to the point where Princess Celestia makes a trip to the armory whenever a new batch of guard armor is finished.

Normally Rarity would not be involved in this line of work; the spellcraft necessary to enchant the gems is not involved in her occupation as a seamstress, and she isn't the kind of unicorn to learn new spells on a whim or just for a single job. Leave that to the enchanter mares who enjoy that sort of thing. Doug had got to talking with Princess Celestia when she came by last heat season and observed Applejack and Pinkie Pie. He mentioned their trip to the Badlands and Rarity's desire to gather a large quantity of gems for her upcoming work. Princess Celestia made the necessary connections and got a special contract for her choice of gems; as long as the quality held up she could delivery any or every one of the applicable gems, and at a very reasonable price.

Doug nods as the two plod along, slowly making their way towards the pass between the Macintosh Hills and the Badland Mountains. He says, "Wow, this is all fascinating stuff. Reminds me a lot of Diablo, or Dun- I mean, Ogres and Oubliettes. Really, any action oriented role playing game." He wipes a bead of sweat from his face, taking another drink of water as they walk along the path. "Exile here would be pretty nasty, though."

Rarity nods in response, glad for the full body garb Doug had insisted she wear for the two day journey. Her hat, normally decorated for whatever occasion she would be attending, is a turban stripped down to the bare essentials in order to reduce the weight on her neck and shoulders. She has sewn a long strip of fabric around the outer edge, hanging down to cover the sides of her face. Her mane, normally styled to perfection, is wrapped in a tight bun and hidden inside the turban. None of her pristine white fur is visible aside from her muzzle, and even then she has a currently detached veil should they encounter a sand storm inside the Badlands. When she helps drag the wagon she leaves it open, allowing her to breathe easier on the dusty road.

While Rarity keeps her mane and tail in her preferred style during their expeditions to the Ghastly Gorge, she has her tail carried high and in a tight ponytail to keep it away from the straps holding her to the wagon. Doug is fine carrying the packs on the trips to Ghastly Gorge, but the considerably heavier wagon is tiring him out too quickly, a begrudging Rarity allowing herself to be used as a common mule and help pull. The light white fabric tunic covering her back drapes over her sides, separate from the section wrapping her legs and leading to her boots. She had decided against replacing her horseshoes just for this trip, opting instead to wear a durable set of boots of her own creation. They are the most stylized of the garments she is wearing, though she has sewn her cutie mark into a number of them, an exceptionally stylized version along the flanks of the tunic.

Doug continues, "So, tell me more about those, I don't know, gem golems. How does that work exactly?" He smiles as a cool breeze blows from behind, finally giving the two some relief from the hot sun.

"Well, not much is known about the gem golems, as I suppose we shall call them. You see," Rarity pauses, unsure of how much to embellish, "Little is known about the creatures. They are theorized to be magical constructs, not actually living creatures. When I encountered them in the Ghastly Gorge they sometimes run away or hide, so it can be difficult to tell if you came across one or not."

Doug frowns, "Then, why did some of the ponies back in Dodge City seem so worried about them?"

Rarity frowns, "Well, most of my experience with them has been in the Ghastly Gorge. You rarely see a gem golem there that has acquired more than one essence, so they tend to be smaller and easily dispatched through force. Say, hitting them with a large stick."

Doug looks back at the iron-shod quarterstaff he had crafted before the trip, "So, good thing I planned on using that stick for more than just walking around."

Rarity smiles, "Well, I hope it doesn't come to that, but better safe than sorry. The real danger will be if we encounter a gem golem that has absorbed, say, five or more essences, especially if they were large gems to begin with. Each essence stacks multiplicatively, or so I've heard, so a golem with five essences might be twice as dangerous as one with four."

Doug shudders nervously, "And you said there are more than twenty different essences that we might encounter?"

Rarity nods, "Yes, though I highly doubt we will find a golem with all twenty essences. Such a monstrosity might possibly be a threat to even Celestia!"

Doug nods, "Well, hopefully it isn't too determined to devour us or something. Does your gem locating spell tell you if it is an essence or how powerful?"

Rarity nods, "It gives a rough number on how many essences, generally within one. I have been surprised, when I thought I was getting a rare find that turned out to be a gem golem. Though the gem it leaves behind is nearly always worth the trouble, even if we didn't have the contract to find them, you just have to ensure that it doesn't spontaneously reenchant itself."

Doug shakes his head, "Well, that's not going to make it easier to sleep at night." He looks to the sky, "Speaking of which, we probably don't have too much longer before we need to set up camp."

Rarity looks at the sky, "Yes, we have at most an hour before moonrise, and we should be trying to sleep by then, not working on setting up camp. I'll let you know if I spot a good area, but everywhere so far looks the same."

Doug nods, "Yup, sounds good." The two continue walking in silence for a few minutes before Doug asks, "So, you want to tell me about the Badlands again, and why we are going on this journey?"

Rarity gives an exasperated sigh, "Again? What, you didn't like my telling the first time?"

A voice comes from Rarity's side, "Oh, you do great job explaining first time."

Rarity and Doug turn to see a Diamond Dog walking alongside them. He is walking upright, his muscular arms reaching past his knees and nearly to his feet. He is wearing a tan jacket and a black collar studded with small diamonds. He gives a friendly wave, smiling and showing off his canines. He says in as friendly as his gruff voice can manage, "Hi, my name Kole!"

Rarity responds, trying to hide her surprise and fear, "Oh, well, it's nice to meet you Kole, my name is Rarity, and this is my partner, Doug."

Kole gives a snorting laugh, "Doug? I mistake you for Diamond Dog with name like that! You heading to Badlands?"

Rarity nods, "Well, there isn't much else to head towards in that direction, now is there? What are you doing out here all alone?"

A voice comes from behind them, "Oh, he not alone." Another Diamond Dog lopes up, quickly closing the gap from behind and standing on Doug's side. He is the same gray as Kole, shorter but much bulkier and wearing a similar collar. A large, nasty mass of scar tissue covers his face where his nose should be, as if it had been shorn off by a blade. His arms occasionally drag on the ground as he keeps pace. The four continue walking along the road as he says, "What bring pretty filly like you and... dragon guide here?"

Rarity gives a nervous chuckle, glancing at Doug, "Oh, well, we were just making our way to the Badlands. Thinking about setting up camp, it will be night soon!"

Kole shakes his head, "Oh, make better time walk at night, better than walk during hot day! Stick with brother and me, we better guide than dragon there, he not know what he doing!"

Kole's brother moves over, closer to Doug as he says, "Yeah, shove off, we not tell anypony how bad you treat poor mare here." He leers over at Rarity, "No worry, miss, we take care of you tonight. Real good care of you."

A third more feminine voice rings from behind them, "Oh Brutus, you won't stop, will you? Besides, if your nose still worked you could tell that she has already mated with him."

A disgusted look comes over Brutus' face as he looks over at Doug, "Wait, you mate with her already?" He gives an exasperated sigh, throwing his arms into the air, "Where sexed up mares when I was pup!"

Rarity hides her own disgust as she and Doug turn, looking at the newest arrival. The female Diamond Dog stands taller than either of the others, wearing a red jacket and collar studded with nicer looking diamonds. Her arms are not nearly as muscular or long as her companions but the gleam in her eye shows that she is the leader of the pack.

She walks closer to the wagon, looking over Rarity and Doug before saying, "Sorry about how he acted, it already got him in trouble with the guard once. They said that next time he gets caught holding a mare against her will they would take off another inch from his face! Not that that would do much." She winks as the two glance over at Brutus; another inch from the front of his face would take off his eyes and part of his brain. Rarity grimaces, trying to keep from retching her lunch at such barbaric treatment as Doug gives a quiet chuckle. "Heh, you've got a sense of humor. I like that; you can call me Shav."

Doug responds as Rarity keeps her mouth shut, "Nice to meet you Shav, my name is Doug Apple, but you can call me Doug. This here is my mate, Rarity. So, what are the three of you doing all the way out here?"

Shav grins, "Well, you passed our warren about fifteen minutes ago. Kole here alerted us and so we figured we'd follow you, see what you were getting up to. Also, you know, protect you if any bandits or wild animals came upon you."

Doug gives her a friendly smile, "Well, thank you for that! I think Kole is right, I'm not really familiar with this area. Have you all been to the Badlands before?"

Shav laughs, "Oh, plenty of times. Enough to know that you won't get far if you don't know what you are doing, and we certainly know our way around. Besides, what kind of bitch would I be if I let these two wander around with you?"

Doug gives a half smile, "Uh, not a very good one?"

Shav smiles, rapping a claw on the wagon, "Oh, I like you, Doug! Doug, Doug, Doug," she says to herself in a singsong voice, glancing into the wagon at the tools and boxes of goods they have inside, "Looks like you planned on staying for a while. What exactly were you planning on doing? Dugging holes?"

Doug glances to Rarity, the mare done recovering from her earlier scare. She gives a quiet shrug before smiling at him. Doug says, "Yes, we were hoping to get a bit of prospecting in, try to locate some gems."

Shav grins at the two, examining her sharp claws, "Oh, that sounds like fun! But, it would really pay to have a set of experienced guides with you, who knows what kind of creatures one might come across as they prospect around."

Rarity forces a smile on her face, "Well, I have heard of the legendary capabilities of the Diamond Dogs, I think a trio of... robust examples such as yourselves would be perfectly suited to help guide us. Maybe we could come to some sort of arrangement?"

Shav puts a large paw to her chin as the two male dogs grin and nod eagerly. She sighs, their exuberance giving away any chance she had of disguising her own eagerness to the opportunity in front of her. She says, "Well, I think we can come up with something, but once we have finished dinner. We should make camp now; it'll take... about five hours to make it into the Badlands, and we'll want to arrive just as morning dawns. Rarity and I can hash out the arrangement, then we'll keep watch while you two rest. It'll be quite the early start for you, but we should be able to take a break after a few hours of travel in the Badlands."

Shav turns to Brutus, "Brute, run back home and get supplies for a week, we'll need food and water. And bags." She looks over at Rarity, grinning, "Lots and lots of bags." Brutus gives her a quick salute, taking a long look at Rarity as he lopes off back the way they came. She heads over to the wagon that Doug and Rarity have pulled off the side of the road. Doug and Kole are busy unpacking one of the crates, withdrawing food, water, and some wood.

Shav moves over to Rarity, the mare holding a mirror with her hoof and inspecting her light eye shadow, the only makeup she insisted that she wear. It has held up reasonably well, and she levitates over her small case of makeup, quickly dabbing away the smeared section and reapplying. Rarity turns, nodding at Shav as the dog sits down next to her. Rarity puts away her case, saying in a tired voice, "Well, what did you want to talk about?"

Shav glances into the wagon, her eyes focusing on the shovels and picks arranged on the walls. She points a paw at them, "Was that what you were planning on using to unearth the gems?" At Rarity's nod Shav shakes her head, "Well, that might work out here in the plains, but you're going to need something stronger if you plan on digging out in the Badlands." She wiggles her paws, "Something like these puppies. So, how do you plan on finding these gems, anyway? I've seen lots of mutts think they are going to go out and strike it big just to come back empty-pawed. You got something special tucked away there, gem mare?" She grins, "I like the sound of that. J'mare."

Rarity smiles at the nickname, "My cutie mark, and spell specialty, is a spell that allows me to locate gems. If you plan on digging, I think Doug will definitely appreciate being spared that work, he's always preferred more delicate or intricate tasks. More suited to them, anyway, with those hands of his." Rarity pauses, looking back at Doug and Kole. The human has gotten a fire going, roasting a few vegetable kabobs as Kole watches him cook. He also has some sort of stew going, the water just beginning to boil. Rarity glances back to Shav, "I'm sorry, I don't know my Diamond Dog physiology. You don't need to eat anything in particular, do you?"

Shav shrugs, "Same as ponies - grains, vegetables. Not so much the grasses, but we can eat meat if you brought any. Or if we find any." At Rarity's lack of reaction she grins, "Oh, you eat meat too? I would love to get my paws on some, we don't have a lot around here."

Rarity shakes her head, "Doug is the meat eater, not me. He brought some turkey jerky with him, I don't think he'll mind sharing at all."

Shav takes a long look at Doug, the human still wearing his full body covering in the warm evening sun. "So, what is he, anyway? Those two mutts were calling him a dragon, but he obviously isn't, they must not have gotten a good smell."

"Oh, he's a human. Just, think of him like a mix between a pony and a Diamond Dog, that's probably good enough for now." Rarity smiles, looking over at her stallion as he puts a generous portion on a plate and hands it to Kole. The dog looks at his plate before looking over at Shav, raising a piece of bread but not taking a bite of his meal yet. Shav stares back at him and Kole nervously puts his paw down.

Doug finishes loading another two plates, bringing them over to the two females. He hands one to Shav and she takes it with a smile, taking a bite of the roasted peppers. She grins, taking another bite as Kole begins eating his portion. Shav looks over at Doug as he returns to the fire, making another plate that he covers with a piece of cloth and then a fifth plate for himself. He takes a bite before walking over to the wagon, pulling out a box and removing four pieces of turkey. Kole watches intently, beginning to salivate as Doug places one piece on his own plate and another on the covered plate. He walks back to the fire, handing another piece to Kole. The dog takes it with a large grin, biting into the turkey and exhaling contentedly. Doug walks over to Shav, glancing at Rarity. The mare gives him a smile as he hands the piece to Shav, the dog glaring at Kole. Shav turns to Doug, taking the piece and biting. Her glare fails to soften as she continues to watch Kole, the dog looking a little nervous.

Shav shakes her head, the smile returning to her face as Doug returns to the fire and grabs his plate. She leans over to Rarity, "Well, you certainly have him well trained. If only I could get my two to behave that well." She smirks, "So, is he that good in bed as well?"

Rarity coughs out the carrot that nearly lodged itself in her throat, "Excuse me?"

Shav shrugs as Brutus lopes back into the camp, carrying several large packs. Doug points to the wagon and Brutus unloads them inside before grabbing the covered plate. He tosses the cover towards the wagon and spots the piece of turkey, giving Doug a wide grin. He quickly scarfs it down before starting on the rest of the plate. Rarity recovers a little more as Shav says, "Well, those two are... passable, I suppose. Last litter they both served well enough."

Rarity raises an eyebrow, "Both?"

Shav nods, "Yup. You can generally tell which whelp is whose, and it helps keep the pack together. I heard ponies do it differently?"

Rarity slowly nods, slowing becoming more comfortable with the conversation, "Yes, well, Doug is the, ahem, stallion of our herd. We have three foals among the five of us mares, one of which is mine, which is normal for the two years we've been together. Applejack, our lead mare, and Pinkie Pie, our most junior, have both taken this last heat." Rarity yawns, "Anyway, you wanted to talk about an arrangement?"

Shav nods, looking back at the three at the fire. She says, "If your gem spell works as well as you must think it does, that will be a huge boon to this little foray. I will be in charge; if I tell you to do something, you do it. If you have any ideas for which direction will be better for finding more gems, but I get us there."

Rarity nods, "That's acceptable, but your authority only extends so far; we won't be kowtowing to any unreasonable demands. Doug will help dig where he is able and needed, and he will be in charge of the wagon. I imagine we will need to do a large amount of traveling, and I would appreciate one of you three to help him with dragging the wagon should he require the assistance."

Shav smirks, "What, afraid to get your hooves dirtier?"

Rarity looks up, slightly offended, "No, I will be tired from walking around and surveying the land, and I will need to rest my hooves and horn whenever I can."

Shav shrugs, "Whatever, I'm fine with that. We'll dig out whatever gems we do find, and we split the total fifty fifty."

Rarity nods, "Acceptable, but how do we split the gems?"

Shav puts a paw to her chin, "Hmm. How about, we bag each cache separately, as we find it. Then, at the end of the day, we take turns picking a gem until we've divvied that bag up, then go on to the next bag."

Rarity thinks for a moment, "Very well, but whoever picks the bag gets the second pick from that bag. I will have two picks and Doug one; and each of you get a turn. We alternate between the two groups, one choice for each group, until the bag is gone."

Shav grins, "That works for me. Oh, and we all help if we find one or more of those gem golems you were talking about. We'll figure out a way to split the proceeds if that happens." She holds up a paw and Rarity holds her hoof, shaking as best she can. Rarity gives a sigh of relief, glad to be done and able to go to sleep.

Shav smirks, "Oh, and one other thing." She leans in close to Rarity, looking deep into her eyes. "I can tell how much Brutus wants to take you. He'll hold off as long as you stay, heh, intimate with Doug. But I'm not going to give him or Kole any release, not during this trip." Shav moves in closer, causing Rarity to back up slightly, a somewhat fearful look on her face. "At the end of this trip I'm going into heat, and you're going to have to make a choice. Doug sires my next litter, or those two get to have their way with you." She leans back, the smirk on her face growing, "Either way, at least one dog is getting laid this trip, the choice is up to you." She leans forward again, tapping her claws on the ground while staring at Rarity, the smirk on her face gone. "Oh, and this is non-negotiable, just in case you thought to try to weasel your way out of it." She laughs, "Well, I suppose there is one other way out. If we fill this wagon with gems? You might be able to keep a tenth of them, if you want to leave this place with anything other than the clothes on your back. Otherwise, I would practice your water finding spells." She silently chuckles, looking at Rarity with a cruel smile.

Rarity slinks away, slowly making her way back to Doug. The fire is extinguished and he has a tent set up, patiently waiting for her to return from the negotiations. Shav continues staring at her until Rarity enters the tent, dreading how to bring the news to Doug.