Keeping Secrets

Chapters

Positive
Sugarcube Corner
Telling Spike
Telling Secrets
Doctors Visit
Princesses
Royalty
The Apple Family

Positive

Of all the possible things that could happen, this is THE. WORST. POSSIBLE. THING!

Rarity sat on the toilet and stared at the positive white pregnancy test, tears overflowing in her eyes. How could this have happened? She was the worst daughter, and not to mention sister in the world. So many thoughts were overwhelming her mind.

Ohhh, what have I done? Rarity thought to herself, I can't deal with this one my own! What will my friends think of me? How will Sweetie Belle feel? Does this make me a tramp? I feel like a tramp!

Approximately three weeks ago, she thought she met the love of her life at the Grand Galloping Gala. Boy, was she wrong! Prince Blueblood was the rudest, most arrogant pony she'd ever met! He didn't even open a single door for her or compliment on her ensemble. She couldn't have imagined a worse date than that, so why did she sleep with him? Oh right, he was the most handsome pony in all of Equestria! With those big juicy muscles and dreamy eyes... Rarity shook her head to extinguish the thoughts.

I have to find a way to tell him... But I doubt he'd even help.. Maybe my friends will understand? Rarity thought hopefully.

And with that, she was off. She threw the pregnancy test in the trash can and ran straight to the one pony who she thought would understand the most, Fluttershy. Nopony seemed to notice her racing through town like a maniac. Everyone was just used to Rarity being so dramatic. But this was worth being dramatic about. This is going to change her whole life. As Rarity neared the yellow pony's cottage, she started shaking, thinking that maybe it was a bad idea. As soon as she started to turn around, Fluttershy walked outside. Just Rarity's luck.

"Oh..Um. Hey, Rarity. I was just about to fly over and see if you wanted to go to the spa. If, um, that's alright.." Fluttershy said sheepishly.

This was a great opportunity for Rarity to tell Fluttershy and see how she reacted. If it was good, she could tell all her other friends. But if Fluttershy was mad or upset.. She'd have to leave town and her boutique, start a new life somewhere else. The element of Kindness should be understanding though... Right?

"Oh Fluttershy, that sounds absolutely lovely. We need to talk about a few things. Best friend talk." Rarity said in a small, sad voice.

There wasn't much talk as they walked to the spa, Rarity was too upset. She was dragging her feet, and going to mess up her hooficure. Rarity would normally have flipped out if a rock even touched her hooves, but she didn't seem to care one bit. This worried Fluttershy deeply, and she kept asking Rarity if everything was ok. Rarity started to get less believable every time she told her she was fine.

They were finally at the spa, and Fluttershy opened the door for Rarity, who smiled weakly and mumbled, "Thanks."

"We'll have the usual." Fluttershy said to Aloe with a smile.

"Right this way, darlings." Lotus handed them some warm, fluffy robes, and escorted them to the sauna.

Perfect, Rarity and Fluttershy would be alone in the sauna, and she didn't have to sorry about any rumors going around from Lotus and Aloe. Not they they were going to spread rumors, but this way some super juicy gossip.

Once Rarity and Fluttershy were alone, Rarity broke down.

"Oh, Fluttershy, this is absolutely dreadful! I didn't know who else to go to! Please don't hate me after I tell you what's happening, I can't stand to lose my best friend!!" Rarity sobbed into her hooves.

"Rarity, what's going on? Are you okay? Is something wrong?" Fluttershy asked, worridly.

"I'm pregnant! I'm pregnant and I don't know what to do or where to go. The father won't be there for me, I'm sure of it. I'm completely alone with this foal. Sweetie Belle will be so upset with me! My parents will never speak to me again! And I'm afraid I'll lose all of my friends."

"Oh.."

Oh no, shes mad. Thought Rarity.

"You hate me, don't you? I understand. I'm awful, just awful"

"No! Rarity don't put yourself down like that, there's nothing to be ashamed of. I just wish you'd slow down a little and explain...Please. Who is the father?"

"Prince Blueblood from the Gala.."

"Oh my.." Fluttershy said in shock.

"I know, I know! I couldn't help myself. Those dreamy eyes just sucked me in!"

"Well I'll help you, Rarity. I'm sure Sweetie Belle and your parents will understand."

"What about our friends, Fluttershy? They'll think I'm a tramp.."

"Oh no, Pinkie Pie will be elated! Applejack will understand, Twilight will probably get you some parenting books, and Rainbow Dash practically won't care at all."

"Well that is true. I'm sorry for ever doubting you like that."

"It's ok, it's perfectly understandable that you're worrying. On the bright side, imagine all the little outfits you can create for him/her! You'll be having so much fun! Right?"

Those few words brightened Rarity up. She was a fool to think that her friends would be livid. They'd love her just the same, and her little foal too. Sweetie Belle would have someone new to play with, I just hope she'd not too upset about being an aunt at such a young age.

"Oh my, I never thought of that! You're right! I assume the foal will have a white coat, since both Prince Blueblood and I have white coats. Do you think I should tell him, Fluttershy? He'd be an awful father, but I don't want my foal to have just a mommy, and wonder where daddy is, and why everypony else has a dad."

"Oh Rarity, I don't know.."

"Well.. My hooves are getting pruny. Let's go to Sugarcube Corner and see Pinkie."

Fluttershy was slightly upset that they didn't get to finish their visit, but nonetheless she paid the spa specialists, and guided Rarity out the door. Luckily, Sugarcube Corner wasn't far away, so nopony would see Rarity's red puffy eyes, and bombard her with questions about whats wrong.

Sugarcube Corner

As Rarity stepped through the front door of Sugarcube Corner, the bell rang and startled Fluttershy.

"Sorry," She replied meekly with a small smile, a light pink blush was already forming on her cheeks.

"Darling, you must stop getting scared over every little thing." Rarity said, slightly annoyed.

Pinkie Pie must have heard them talking, and came bouncing in from the kitchen, flour sprinkled all over her light pink apron.

"Hey girls! Do you wanna try out these new cookies the Cake's just made? They're delicious!" Pinkie said, as she bounced in circles around Rarity and Fluttershy, grinning like a maniac.

"Sure, bring them in and out them on the table, we have some serious matters to talk about." Replied Rarity as she sat down at the table, patting the chair next to her for Fluttershy to sit in.

Fluttershy walked over and hopped into the chair. Rarity really has nothing to worry about, Pinkie is great with foals. She babysits the Cake's twins all the time.. Fluttershy thought while twisting her pink mane around her hoof. Rarity was a wreck, she was practically hyperventilating.

"Rarity, please calm down.. You're worrying everypony." Fluttershy said.

Pinkie Pie bounced in with a tray of cookies balanced on her head, the Cake's following to see the reaction from the two test ponies.

"These are Honey-Apple-Carrot Delights, an old recipe my mother used to make. I thought it might be a nice new flavor. Tell what you think!" Said Mr. Cake as he excitedly slid the tray over to Rarity and Fluttershy.

Why didn't I think of this in the first place? Mrs. Cake just had twins, she can give me advice and help out! Rarity grinned and looked over at Mrs. Cake.

Fluttershy and Rarity popped the cookies in their mouths and their pupils got huge, this had to be the best cookie ever made in the history of all cookies! Fluttershy daintily asked if she could have another, and Rarity just grabbed one. Being pregnant made her more hungry than she normally would be.

"Mmm, mmm, mmm, these are delicious!" Rarity squealed. "I'll have a batch to go!"

"Um.. Rarity.. We came here to... Uh.."

"Right. Pinkie, Mrs. Cake, will you come here for a moment?" Rarity asked politely, not meaning to offend Mr. Cake.

"Dear, go on in the kitchen and get started on that new batch of cookies for Ms. Rarity." Mrs. Cake directed to Mr. Cake, clearly realizing that Rarity just wanted to have a girl talk.

"Of course." He said and trotted off.

Rarity pointed to the table in the far corner, suggesting that they sit there so nopony could hear what was about to be revealed. Fluttershy gave Rarity a reassuring smile and sat down. Pinkie and Mrs. Cake were quite confused as to what was going on.

"Alright, ladies. What I am about to say is to be between us. If I want to tell somepony else, I'll do it myself. I need you to PINKIE promise that you will not tell a soul, before I tell you my secret. Understand?" Rarity said, staring at the two clueless ponies.

"Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye!" Pinkie said as she poked her eye with her hoof.

"Um, yes, I pinkie promise as well." Mrs. Cake said, not sure of what it was that Pinkie just did.

"MRS. CAKE, YOU HAVE TO SAY THE PINKIE PIE PROMISE CHANT!" Pinkie whined.

"Oh fine. Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye..." Mrs. Cake said, bemused.

"Better."

"Alright, now that's out of the way... I didn't completely tell you the truth about Prince Blueblood. He was my coltfriend in school. I surely thought we were going to get married, but I had to move to Ponyville from Canterlot. So when I was at the Gala, old memories just smacked me in the face, and I thought that maybe, somehow I could make things between us work out. I decided to.. Sleep with him. For old time's sake, and to maybe bring out love back. Soon after that, I realized I had made a huge, gigantic mistake. Blueblood has changed so much, he used to be sweet and kind. Now he's an arrogant jerk. I suppose royalty got to his brain and caused this.. Monster. I shouldn't have done that, I shouldn't have gone to see him at all. Now, I suppose karma has come to bite me in the flank. I'm carrying his foal. Please don't be mad, I understand that I made a mistake! I'm not giving up my foal though, I want to keep him/her. I just don't know if I should tell Prince Blueblood. He wouldn't care at all, I know that's for sure. It's just, the foal has the right to know who it's father is, right? Or would it just be better off not knowing it's rude, jerk of a father. Then again, Blueblood is a prince, which would make the foal royalty. Wouldn't he want to be royalty? Oh I just don't know what to do.."

"OHMIGOSHOHMIGOSHOHMIGOSHOHMIGOSH RARITY! You know what this calls for! A party! We'll have a party for the conception, a baby shower, and an after birth party! This will be so much fun!" Pinkie Pie jumped up and down, with the biggest smile she's ever had. Except for that one time when Twilight came to town..

"Oh deary, congratulations! Don't forget, we're always open for catering parties!" Mrs. Cake said, delighted for new business.

The two ponies were laughing and discussing decorations and cake flavors, while Rarity was quite upset that they didn't help her at all with her question. Fluttershy seemed to know what was wrong.

"Um girls, girls. Rarity needs a little help still." Fluttershy announced quietly.

"With what? Whats wrong?" Pinkie and Mrs. Cake asked, confused.

"Well, you didn't answer the last part of what I said. Should I tell Prince Blueblood?" Rarity asked again.

"Oh yes! You can get married and move to Ponyville together!" Pinkie squealed.

"No, that wouldn't happen. He would just stay in Canterlot, and I would just keep the foal here, by myself.." Rarity said, tears welling up in her blue eyes.

Silence. Nobody knew what to say to that. Even Pinkie was quiet for once.

"How about we decide that later? When you figure out what you're gonna do about Sweetie Belle and your parents." Mrs. Cake suggested "Your foal can have playdates with our foals, they'll be the best of friends!" She said, trying to cheer Rarity up.

"Yes, I suppose I should wait. Sweetie and my mother and father should have a say in this too. I'm glad both of you understand, and are going to help me through this. I still have 3 other friends to tell today, though. Would you accompany me to Twilight's library please?" Rarity asked, more confident than she was earlier that day.

"Sure thing, deary. Let me go get the twins, they might want to go for a walk." Mrs. Cake said as she went upstairs to get her foals.

Fluttershy was so glad that everypony was so understanding and helpful to Rarity, she couldn't imagine what she'd do in this situation.

Telling Spike

The walk to Twilight's was fun at first, and then Rarity realized she would have to tell poor little Spike. This would crush his little walnut-sized heart! Rarity started to walk a bit slower, thinking of excuses to tell the little guy. None came to mind, though. She would just have to tell him the truth.

The Tree-Library was within sight now, and Pinkie started trotting a little faster, eager to tell twilight about Rarity's little bundle of joy! Ohh fun! Pinkie would have so much fun playing with it! Maybe Rarity would even let her teach it how to bake, and Pinkie would get to throw all of it's parties! Eeeek!

Fluttershy wasn't sure what to think. Would Twilight be as elated as Mrs. Cake and Pinkie? Or would she hold a grudge and stop being Rarity's friend? Fluttershy was so worried about her friend, she thought she might faint! Rarity would be too busy with her new foal to take care of Opal, so Fluttershy would have to. Not like that's a problem, Fluttershy loves animals.

Pound and Pumpkin were so happy to be out and about in their stroller. Mrs. Cake was worried about Rarity though. She'd have to teach her how to take care of the foal properly. If Pinkie could do it, Rarity could too... Right? Of course Mr. Cake and her could help take care of the foal though, they've had tons of practice. Their little foals turned out great, after all.

As they neared the library, they could see a shadow pacing back and forth inside the window, Twilight must be frazzled about something.. Rarity thought to herself.

Pinkie Pie was the first to arrive at the door, and didn't even bother to knock. She just barged right in, to find Twilight talking to herself walking around like a crazy pony with a messed up mane.

"Umm.. Twilight, darling? Is there something we can help you with?" Rarity asked, obviously worried about the state Twilight was in.

"Wha- AH! Woah! Where did you come from? You scared me! What's going on? Why are you all here?" Twilight spazzed.

"Well dear, I have some news to tell you.. But if you're busy, it can wait till later.." Rarity slowly backed away.

"No. I'm fine. It's just the library has a few books out of order and I can't find them anywhere! Spike is in the other room looking on those shelves." Twilight said, defeated.

At the sound of his name, Spike walked in. Rarity stood awkwardly, wondering how she would break it to him.

"What's... Whats wrong, you guys?" Asked Spike, unsure of why they were here.

"Twilight, Spike, sit down. I have something to tell you." Rarity gestured at two empty chairs. The other three mares just stood by her side, waiting. Nopony knew how Spike would react..

"Spike, you know I love you dearly, you're one of the best friends I could have asked for. I'm sorry to break this news to you, but I'm pregnant. Twilight, please listen to me before you get angry. Please." Rarity said nervously, shifting her weight.

As Rarity explained the story, Spike started getting some ideas. Sure, he was sad at first, but this gave him a great opportunity. He let Rarity drone on about Prince Blueblood, and silently waited until she was done to explain his thought.

When Rarity was done, Twilight didn't say anything. She worriedly looked at Spike, thinking that he was going to be heartbroken, but he looked extremely calm.

"Spike?.." Rarity said, terrified he was going to go crazy, he seemed to unusually relaxed.

"Well Rarity, I'm going to help you. Obviously. I'll stay with you at your boutique, and I'll be your assistant. I'll make your meals, and clean up for you. That way you only need to worry about your foal. I have a crush on you Rarity, I'm going to do everything I can to be there for you while you need me to be. Twilight has Owlowiscious to help her out while I'm staying with you. I don't see the problem. I'll go pack my things. I'm not taking no for an answer, you need me." Spike said, and then walked upstairs to get his suitcase.

"I agree with Spike, you need your own assistant. You can keep him until the foal is born. Oh and by the way, congratulations. I totally did not expect this!" Twilight said, understanding.

Rarity was baffled, she didn't know what to say.

"T--Thank you, Twilight Sparkle. You truly are a good friend. Letting me have Spike for this time. I really owe you one. I can make you a dress if you'd like?" Rarity said, so grateful that she didn't hurt the baby dragon.

"Hey Rarity! Make Spike a butler suit! That would be soooo funny!" Pinkie said, laughing at her own idea.

"Oh um, Rarity, I'll take Opal until you're ready to have her back. I know your hooves are full." Fluttershy said.

"Oh dear, we have some extra foal supplies that we never used, you can have them. I completely forgot. Silly me!" Mrs. Cake said, smiling at the expectant mother.

"Thank you all so, so much! I'm so grateful to have such good friends! You're truly are all the best!" Rarity said, dramatically crying.

Spike walked back downstairs, all his things in a tiny, baby dragon sized suitcase.

"I have everything. Twilight, I'll miss you.."

"Oh please, Spike. You're being almost as dramatic as Rarity. I'll see you every day." Twilight laughed, roughing up his scales.

"Where are Applejack and Rainbow? They need to know about this, too." Twilight suggested.

"I think they're at Sweet Apple Acres, they usually are around this time of day." Spike said.

"Well, two more stops then, and everypony will know." Rarity said as she trotted out the door.

"Wait why did she say two more stops? Sweet Apple Acres is just one. Who else are we telling?" Twilight asked Fluttershy.

"I think I know...."

Telling Secrets

Applebloom was galloping as fast as she could to reach the CMC clubhouse. Sweetie Belle is gonna be so mad! She thought. Only about 5 more minutes till she was there, but while she was running through the tree's, Big Mac spotted her and called her over. He was suspicious of her actions.

"Woah there, speedy! Come on over here for a sec."

Applebloom gulped.

"Yeah, Big Mac?" Applebloom replied, tediously.

"Where are ya off to in such a big hurry?"

Yep. Definitely suspicious.

"Uh.. Uh.... Nowhere! Nowhere at all. Ah just needed a nice run, that's all. Ah swear." Applebloom lied, badly.

Big Mac wasn't falling for a word of it, and Applebloom could see that. He eyes her suspiciously.

"Well, gotta gallop. See ya at dinner!" Applebloom took off again.

Big mac wasn't stupid. He immediately galloped to the library to tell Rarity what was going on.

How in the world can that little filly lie when her sister is the Element of Honesty? Ah guess that would explain why she's so bad at it.. Big Mac mused.

"Tonight's the night! I can feel it! We're going to get our cutie marks in... Doctorism!" Scootaloo yelled.

"Doctorism isn't even a word, Scootaloo." Sweetie Belle agrued.

"IS TOO!"

"IS NOT!

"IS TOO!"

Applebloom barged in the door, out of breath, trying to explain to them what was going on with Rarity and her sister.

"Rari- Applej- Fight- C- Preg---" She gasped between breaths.

Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle just looked at each other, wondering what in the hay was going on here.

"Um.. Applebloom. Sit down for a second. We'll get you some water." Sweetie Belle pushed her onto a chair and ran outside to the hose with a clean glass for the water.

"Here you go." Sweetie Belle handed her the glass of water.

Applebloom gulped it down, finally catching her breath, able to speak again.

"Alright Ah'm ok now. SWEETIE BELLE RARITY IS PR-"

Big Mac walked in through the door just at that second.

"APPLEBLOOM. What in the hay do ya think you're doin?" He said, angrily.

"...Uh oh."

"Uh oh is right. Get your flank back to the barn right this instant!"

"Bye girls.."

"Bye, Applebloom." Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo said simultaneously.

Big Macintosh went to the window, and gestured for the ponies waiting outside the window to come inside. Rainbow Dash and Rarity trotted up the ramp, into the clubhouse.

"RAINBOW DASH!" Scootaloo screamed

"Hey, squirt. You can come hang out with me outside. Rarity's gotta talk to Sweetie Belle about something really important. Hey, I bet you can't beat me in a race to the library! I'll gallop, you use your scooter. Ready, set, go!"

They were off, racing in the night to Twilights, where the rest of the ponies were waiting.

"Sweetie Belle.. I'm sorry I have to tell you this in such an odd situation, sit down."

Sweetie Belle obeyed, thinking something awful had happened, like a death, or they were moving away. She was too choked up to say anything, she just waited until Rarity told her the awful news.

"Do you remember when I went to the gala with Prince Blueblood?"

Sweetie Belle nodded.

"Well, he was my old coltfriend, before you were born.."

Sweetie Belle nodded again, We're moving to Canterlot to live with Prince Blueblood... She thought

"Well, I'm not going to go into detail. I'll tell you that when you're older. But I'm pregnant now, and he is the father." She closed her eyes, scared to look at the reaction on Sweetie Belle's face.

"I.. I can't believe this. You're replacing me, aren't you? You don't want me anymore..."

"No, Sweetie Belle! No! I love you! You're my only sister, I would never replace you! I didn't mean for this to happen, you have to understand! Please, Sweetie.. I'm sorry, I'm so, so sorry." Rarity sobbed.

"I just.. I have to think about this. I need time. Time to comprehend all of this.. I'm going to spend a few nights at Appleblooms so I can get my thoughts together. I'll see you later, Rarity.." Sweetie Belle started walking towards the barn.

Sweetie walked with her head hung, accidently kicking dirt into her eyes. She didn't care, though. It just got washe out by her tears. Rarity hates me.. She's trying to replace me. She's my sister. My one and only sister. What did I do wrong? Why does she want to replace me? These thoughts whirled around her mind, until she got to Appleblooms window. She tapped on the window, just loud enough to wake Applebloom from her slumber.

"Wha.. What the ponyfeathers?"

Oh mah gosh is there a vampony at mah window tryin' to get in my room to suck mah blood? Oh.. It's Sweetie Belle.. Riiight

Applebloom walked over to her window, and unlocked it for Sweetie Belle. She pulled her in and they went to go sit on her bed. Applebloom squeezed a pillow while she listened to Sweetie Belle's story.

"She's pregnant, Applebloom. Rarity is pregnant. Why would she do this to me? Why is she trying to replace me? Am I not good enough for her to have around? What have I done wrong? And you'll never believe who the father is, Prince Blueblood! Yet another thing she's kept a secret from me. They were an item when Rarity was a teenager. Of course nopony ever told me. Now she's having his foal and he's not even going to be there for him 'cause he's a big meany. Am I even old enough to be an aunt? I don't understand why she did this to me. Am I a bad sister? Oh I'm gonna stay here for a few days, sorry for the short notice." Sweetie spilled out, practically in one breath.

"It ain't your fault, you didn't do nothin' wrong. Stop bein' so hard on yourself. You'll love that little foal eventually. Come here." Applebloom pulled Sweetie Belle into a tight hug, and wiped away her best friend's tears.

"Everything's alright. Let's go to sleep, Ah'm tuckered out."

Sweetie Belle nodded in agreement, and they both got under the covers. Applebloom was asleep within seconds, but Sweetie Belle stayed up a while, not able to sleep while her mind was a hurricane. Eventually she exhausted herself from thinking too much, and fell right asleep, snuggling up to Applebloom.

Rarity walked back to the library after Sweetie Belle left, shedding countless tears. As she walked in the front door, Spike called her into the kitchen. He had made her favorite snack. Carrot and sunflower pasta.

"Everypony's already asleep upstairs, but I decided to wait for you to come back. Eat your food and go on up with the rest." Spike said, unable to keep his eyes open. He fell on the ground seconds after the words slipped out of his mouth. Rarity chuckled and levitated him onto the couch in the living room, and wrapped him in a blanket.

"Good night, Spikey" She said and kissed him on the cheek, leaving red kiss marks.

She went back into the kitchen and finished her soup, still contemplating on whether she should tell Prince Blueblood or not. Nopony had actually answered that question yet. Tomorrow I shall make things right with Applejack Rarity thought as she washed the dish in the sink. She grabbed a blanket from the closet in the hall and slowly walked upstairs, where she found Fluttershy had made an open spot in the bed for her. She climbed in, careful not to wake anypony up,and drifted off to sleep. Being pregnant made her quite tired.

Doctors Visit

Rarity had not seen Sweetie Belle or Applejack for a week or so. I guess Sweetie Belle hasn't decided yet.. But that still leaves Applejack. I do hope I see her today so I can talk to her, but it seems she's completely avoiding me.. Rarity thought. Rarity sat in bed, pondering her thoughts and looking out the window, she had scheduled a doctors appointment today and had asked Rainbow Dash to come with her. The appointment was an ultra sound, and she would find out if the foal was a colt or filly. Oh I must start thinking of a name.. I hope it's a filly, I can teach her how to do her makeup and her hair, and help her with her outfits! I suppose I could do that if it was a colt.. But not the makeup part. Unless he's into that. Oh my, this will be such a fun adventure!

Rarity decided that it was time to get up. She tiptoed into the kitchen, because Spike was asleep in his basket in the hallway. Fore breakfast, she decided to have a simple fried daisy sandwich. While she was making it, the smell of the food started to get simply revolting. She looked at it, Well nothing seems wrong.. But why does it smell so awful? She laid the friend sandwich on a plate and checked it one last time. It's fine Rarity, just eat it. Your nose is probably messed up from the pregnancy. As Rarity bit into the sandwich, something seemed off.. Why did the sandwich taste like rotten tomatoes? Uh oh. Rarity ran to the sink and threw up all the contents from the pit of her stomach. Great. I'll just skip breakfast then. Rarity wiped her mouth on a paper towel and walked to the bathroom to brush her teeth and do her mane.

Half an hour later, Rainbow Dash knocked on the front door.

"Come in!" Rarity sang.

Rainbow trotted in and sat on the couch,

"What's up Rare? You're looking a little.. Off.."

Ugh, is it that noticable?

"Yes I'm fine, let's just say I had a little bit of sickness.. In the morning"

"Gross. Well we gotta get going. Your appointment is in 10 minutes."

Rarity and Rainbow Dash walked out the door, discussing foal names.

"Heh, you should name it something that has the word Dash in it, named after it's great godmother." Rainbow said rather proudly.

"Godmother? I haven't even decided who the godmother will be, Rainbow.."

"Well I wanna do it! It's always nice to have another pony look up to you. I've got pretty much the whole town going after me."

"We'll see, Rainbow. I haven't thought about it yet. I've got more important things on my mind. Like Sweetie Belle."

"Aw Rarity, she'll come around. She'll start missing you soon."

"Really? I'm pretty sure you said that last week. We'll talk about it later, we're here."

Rarity and Rainbow Dash walked in and went up the the front desk.

"Do you have an appointment?" Nurse Coldheart asked, sweetly. You'd think with a name like that, she'd be grumpy. What a coincidence

"Yes, my name is Rarity. I need to have an ultrasound today." Rarity said proudly, flashing off the small bump that was beginning to show on her tummy.

"Oh, I see! Yes, the doctor will be with you shortly. Please have a seat"

Rainbow was already sprawled out in a chair,

"Come here Rare, I saved a seat for ya."

"Thank you, Rainbow. Oh I'm so excited!"

"Me too! Wait I'm coming with you, right?"

"Of course!" Rarity exclaimed.

Rarity took a cosmetics magazine from the table beside her and started reading it while Rainbow took a nap. It wasn't needed though, within five minutes the doctor called her name.

"Rarity, please." Dr. Whooves said with a flashy smile.

Rarity made a tiny squeal and shook Rainbow awake.

"It's my turn! Let's go!" Rarity said, excitedly.

They walked into a room, and the doctor asked Rarity to sit on the bed.

"First foal?" Dr. Whooves asked.

"Yes, I'm so excited!" Rarity exclaimed.

"Well, lets get started."

The doctor squeezed some cold blue gel on her tummy and spread it around with some sort of device, Rarity wasn't sure what it was called. This was new technology for Equestria. The screen started to show pictures on the monitor, and Rarity couldn't make out what it was. It just looked like a grey blob.

"Here's the head, and here's the legs, and that's the heart beating." Dr. Whooves pointed out each thing on the screen.

Rarity was mind-blown, that was the little foal growing in her stomach. She started tearing up from happiness. This was the best thing that could have ever happened.

"So doc, what's the gender?" Rainbow Dash asked, breaking Rarity's train of thought.

"The foal is a little filly. Congratulations, Rarity!"

Rarity was thrilled. This was to be the best thing she could have dreamed of. She couldn't even speak, she was so happy. She just smiled and nodded. The doctor wiped off the blue goo and shook her hoof.

"Congratulations, again" He said, and waved them to the door.

Rarity was still at a loss for words as she walked back into the reception room. That was when she noticed a familiar array of colors on a pony sitting in the chair by the door. Rarity teared up once again and grabbed the pony that was in her view. Rainbow Dash was shocked.

"Sweetie Belle!" Rarity said through her tears.

"Hey sis," Sweetie Belle said as she returned the hug.

Princesses

Rarity and Sweetie Belle sat in the kitchen at the breakfast table with some toast and tea that Spike had brewed up for them. The past couple of weeks had been.. Rocky. Still no sign of Applejack. At least her and Sweetie had made up, with the ending result being that they were closer than ever. Rarity slowly levitated her cup to her lips and sipped the warm liquid as she stared out of the window into the sunny day, thinking of the day at the hospital where Sweetie had shown up to apologize.

"Sweetie Belle!" Rarity gasped, running to her little sister to give her a big hug.

"Hey sis, I heard you had your appointment today. I'm sorry I missed it. I really tried to be on time.." Sweetie said with a half smile.

"No no no! Don't worry about it. Does... Does this mean you're ready to talk things out?" The purple maned unicorn asked hopefully.

"I've been doing a lot of thinking.. I miss you a lot. And having a foal around wouldn't be so bad.. And what REALLY got me was the fact that I might even be able to get my cutie mark in foalsitting!"

Rarity chuckled, "Oh Sweetie. I missed you as well. The boutique is just isn't the same without you." Rarity said with tears beginning to form in her eyes.

"So did you completely forget about your appointment or what? Tell me what happened!" Sweetie exclaimed.

"Oh my! Yes, of course! I'm having a..."

*Pause for dramatic effect*

"Yeeeessss?" Sweetie Belle said grinning as wide as she possibly could, her white teeth glaring off the hospital lights.

"A little filly!" The excited mare confirmed

"Ohmigoshohmigoshohmigosh! We can play dress up with her and everything!"

"You really want to do that?" Rarity was shocked.

"Yes, why wouldn't I? Maybe I can even get my cutie mark in... Playing?"

"Perhaps you may. Rainbow Dash?" Rarity called, "Would you like to join us for dinner?"

Rainbow Dash strutted over, a bored expression on her face.

"Jeez, I was wondering when you'd quit with the mushy stuff. I'm starving, lets go!" The blue mare said.

Rarity was so thankful to have such a forgiving sister. She averted her eyes from the sun to across the table at Sweetie Belle who seemed lost in thought.

"Something wrong?" Rarity asked.

"Oh no, not at all. I was just thinking of names is all." Sweetie explained, shifting her weight.

"You know, I haven't thought of any so far. What are your suggestions?"

"I really like Blue Belle, Sun Belle, Frosty Belle, Cutie Belle, Honey Belle, you know anything with 'Belle' in it is cool."

Rarity laughed, "Sweetie Belle, we already have one 'Belle' in the family. I wouldn't want to take that honor away from you!" She said, jokingly.

Spike walked in, carrying a mile-high stack of clean plates that he had to put away.

"Hey guys. What's up?" The purple dragon asked nonchalantly.

"Spike, perfect timing! We were just thinking of names, what were you thinking of?"

"Ah geez, Rarity.. I don't know. I haven't thought of anything. Whatever you want." Spike replied.

"Hmm, well well I'm going to ask the rest of our friends and see what they think."

"I wouldn't ask Twilight if I were you. She'd come up with something lame like.. Starswirl or something from her dusty old books." Spike joked, and everyone got a good laugh out of it.

"I have a wonderful idea! Spike, take a letter." Rarity beamed.

Royalty

Princess Celestia was in the dining hall, having her morning cup of tea and some gourmet flowers made by her personal chef, when a puff of bright green smoke appeared next to her grand chair.

Ah, I was wondering when my most faithful student would be sending me a letter, it's almost been a week. I'm surprised.

Celestia levitated the letter and opened it with her magic, upon reading the first line she was astonished to find that the letter was not from Twilight, but from Rarity. She could tell by the way she used "Your majesty" as a greeting.

Celestia finished the letter and sat in awe. She had a billion thoughts racing in her head.

Rarity is pregnant by Prince Blueblood? From the Gala? How did I not know about this? She wants me to come down and see her immediately? But.. What? And a name? An the foal is to be royalty?

"Shining Armour! Would you mind coming in here please?" Celestia shouted outside to the stallion guarding her door.

Shining Armour trotted in smiling,

"Yes princess? Would you like some more tea?" He asked kindly.

"Oh um, well no. Not exactly. This has to do with Ponyville." She responded with a half smile.

"Is Twilight ok?" He asked, obviously getting slightly worried by the way his brow furrowed.

"Oh yes, yes. Don't worry about her. It's about Rarity, she's pregnant. Could you get the royal guards to have my carriage set up so I can make my way down to Ponyville for her? It's a royal emergency."

"Oh, yes of course. I'll get them at once." He obeyed and started off the the Royal Guard wing of the castle.

Oh my, this trip will be quite an interesting one. She thought and chuckled to herself.

A knock sounded at the front door of the boutique and Spike ran from the kitchen to open it.

The sight he saw was quite familiar with Twilight, so he wasn't very surprised. The royal guards stood at the door in front of Princess Celestia.

"Oh, hey Princess. What's going on?" Spike asked.

"Hello my dear Spike, I'm here to see Rarity. Though I'm surprised to find you here as well.." She said, slightly confused.

"Eh, why don't you come sit down and we'll explain everything. Here, I'll show you to the sitting room." He said, glancing at the two guards who were still in front of Celestia.

"Thank you Spike. You two may go." She commanded the guards.

"We'll be out front, miss." They replied and walked off.

Spike brought the Princess into the room where Rarity was waiting with Rainbow Dash.

"Hello, princess.I'm so glad you could make it on such short notice. Please, have a seat. This may take a while." Rarity explained.

"Thank you, Rarity. Hello, Rainbow Dash. I see you're well. That's wonderful." The princess smiled.

"Oh yeah, you know me, still awesome." The rainbow maned pegasus winked and slouched in her chair a bit.

"So, let's begin. Shall we?"

Rarity began telling the royal alicorn about Prince Blueblood, Applejack, Sweetie Belle (Who was at school now), names. The Princess sat and listened, absorbing all the information and thinking about ways to solve her conflict with Applejack and some lovely names she had always loved. Princess Celestia loved that she could sat and talk with these two ponies normally, like they were all great friends, instead of having them all worried about impressing her and looking spectacular. Not that Rarity didn't look spectacular, even if she was pregnant. The alicorn loved feeling normal for once.

When Rarity was done explaining her crisis, the Princess began to talk of her plans for Applejack.

"Alright, let's begin with Applejack. First of all, you must understand her family has very traditional country values. She probably thinks you're going to Tartaurus now. Which I assure you, is not the case. I think you should go up to her when she's out selling her apples in town and explain everything to her, tell her it was an accident. If she is truly your friend, she will understand. And I am pretty sure she is. You two might not have been the closest of the group, but you still love each other." The princess finished.

"I do love her, Princess. I love all my friends equally, even if I do not show it very well. Applejack is just so hard to deal with sometimes." Rarity explained.

"Yeah she's pretty stubborn. But that's AJ for ya'" Rainbow chimed in.

"Yes I do understand what you mean, quite well. She was probably just very upset and confused." The princess said smiling.

"I know.. I don't want to lose her." Rarity said, getting a bit teary.

"Woah, woah, woah. Let's not get all mushy. I've got some cool names, what about you princess?" Rainbow asked, changin the subject before Rarity started getting emotional. She hated that.

Spike peeked in from the kitchen, chuckling. Typical Rainbow.

"Ah, yes. I do have some lovely names. The ones I really loved were Satin and Silk. If I could have foals, I would have named them that." She said, hoping Rarity enjoyed them.

"Eh, really? I was thinking of something more radical like.. Swift Fleet or something cool." Rainbow Dash said.

"Swift Fleet sounds like a pegasus name, and I am having a unicorn, Rainbow. Oh I really like Satin, Princess. Although I'd like it to be a little longer. Satin being the first word, but I need a second part." Rarity said, expressing her opinion.

"Well I'll give you time to think of that. For now, we have more important matters. Royal matters." The Princess said, turning serious.

"Royal?" Rarity and Rainbow said simultaneously.

Princess Celestia got up and walked to the window, looking out to the afternoon sun. She turned around, and the look on her face was delightful.

"Rarity, you do realize Prince Blueblood is a prince?" She said, hinting the secret.

The wheels started to turn in Raritys head. That means.. My foal is a princess.. and I'm a dutchess?

"Do.. Do you mean little Satin is going to be a Pr-Prin-PRINCESS?" Rarity shrieked in delight.

"Yes, my little pony. And if you decide to tell Prince Blueblood, you shall be royalty too." Princess Celestia confirmed.

"That is my biggest dream!" Rarity squealed and almost fainted.

"Like.. Woah." Rainbow said in unsure shock. Her friend was gonna move away and live in.. Canterlot?

"You may come visit him at the castle, if you wish." Celestia said, pointing at the carriage with the two Royal Guards.

"Oh my.. We must tell Blueblood at once! Come on, Rainbow!" Rarity yelled, running to the carriage, before the princess even started walking to it.

"I'm.. Coming.." Rainbow said, sadly. She didn't want her friendships falling apart like this. First Applejack leaves, now Rarity is leaving too. I'm loyal to them.. Why can't they be loyal to me and stay? I hate being alone..

The Apple Family

Applejack and Rainbow dash were inside the barn, playing tic-tac-toe and drinking apple cider, when their whole group of friends walked up to them. Mrs. Cake had to go home to feed the foals. They stood up and got into the group of friends.

"Uh, howdy ya'll..?" Applejack said, confused as to why all their friends were together except her and Dashie.

"Hey, whats the big deal here? Why weren't we invited? Huh?" Rainbow Dash said, offended.

"Applejack, Rainbow, Rarity has something very, very important to tell you. So please don't say a word until she is done explaining." Said Twilight Sparkle, tapping her hoof impatiently.

"Oh..kay" Rainbow Dash and Applejack said at the same time.

"Alright you two, what I am about to say will probably shock you. The others seemed to be fine with it, so I suppose you two will too. I am pregnant." Said Rarity, quite tired of repeating the same thing over and over.

Rarity didn't even get to tell her story of how it happened, before Applejack said,

"Whatever. I'm outta here." And ran off somewhere into the fields.

Rarity was stunned. She was about to start crying, but Fluttershy rubbed her back and said she'd understand eventually, and pulled her into a hug.

"APPLEJACK!" Screamed Rainbow Dash as she started to fly off to catch Applejack, but Pinkie Pie grabbed her tail and pulled her back.

"We'll talk to her later, I don't know what her problem is. But let Rarity explain to you what happened first, ok?" Twilight Sparkle suggested.

"Alright" Rainbow Dash sat on the ground and smiled, quite happy at the news.

When Rarity finished, Rainbow Dash jumped up and gave her a really squeezy hug, much to Rarity's surprise.

"Ahhh! I'm so happy for you! Now lets go get Applejack. She must just be cranky or something, it's not like her to act like this at all. You didn't get to tell her your story, so I'm sure that after you do, she'll understand. Lets go!" Rainbow Dash galloped off.

The rest of the crew trotted after her, not wanting Rarity to gallop because she was pregnant. Which didn't make any sense to her, it wasn't like she was showing yet or anything.

One pony hadn't left the barn though.. One pony they had not seen up in the loft, listening to every word they said.. Applebloom. When she was sure that everyone was gone, she jumped down and galloped as fast as she could to the CMC clubhouse, where Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle were thinking of new cutie mark ideas. Applebloom was going to tell Sweetie Belle.

Applejack was so frustrated. How could Rarity do this? How could she have a foal without being married? That was wrong. So, so wrong. The Apple family would never do anything like this. She mindlessly bucked dead trees to take her anger out, probably ruining her hooves, but she didn't care. She ran from tree to tree, all around Sweet Apple Acres. After a few hours she got tuckered out and fell asleep on top of an old hill.

Not even twenty minutes later, she woke up to Big Macintosh nudging her with his hoof. She awoke, and groggily said,

"What do ya want."

"Your friends are out here lookin' for ya. It was mighty rude of ya to run off like that. They told me everything that happened. Rarity is your friend, ya know. Ya gotta be there for her through thick and thin. What upset you so much, sis? They never seen you act out like that before."

"What's wrong? WHAT'S WRONG? What's wrong, Big Mac, is that Rarity there got pregnant without bein' married and in love. Do ya know how twisted that foal is gonna be with just a mother? It's just awful. It ain't right."

"Applejack, ah think ah know what this is about.."

"Oh yeah?"

"Eeyup."

"Then what is it, Mr. I Know Everythang?"

"It's because you're hurt that we never met our parents, isn't it?"

Applejack bucked a dead tree harder than ever.

"Dang right it is! Do ya know how much pain ah feel not knowin' them? Do ya know how much I wish every dang night that they'll call or magically appear the next morning? It never happens, Big Mac. That little foal is gonna be hurt, just like we are."

"Applejack, ya don't know that. Rarity might tell Prince Blueblood."

Applejack blew up at this.

"PRINCE BLUEBLOOD? PRINCE GOSH DARN TOOTIN' BLUEBLOOD? THAT'S THE FATHER?"

".......Uh... Eeyup." Big Macintosh started backing away slowly.

"Has Rarity lost her absolute mind?! He was the most despicable pony ah ever met in all mah days! Rarity is not the Rarity ah used to know. Ah'm tired o' her garbage. Ah'm done. Ah'm just done." Applejack fumed, and ran off again.

Big Macintosh just gave up, and walked back to where he left the girls.

"Sorry ladies, no luck. She just ran off again. She'll calm down eventually and let ya explain. I suggest you just go on home now though. She's mighty irritated."

"Alright Big Mac, thank you for all your help." Rarity said, and she walked back to Twilight's library, where they all planned to have a sleep over party, minus one pony.

I'll just have to tell Sweetie Belle tomorrow, I'm much too tired today. Rarity thought, as she sat on the floor with the rest of the girls, and slowly started to nod off to sleep.