Author's Note

Not much clop in this one. Sorry it took a while!

Chapter 2

With a sigh and a flutter of her lashes, Rarity lounged on her fainting couch, grateful she could finally take a day off. Yet by the same token she couldn't help but wonder what the rest of the herd was up to, rubbing the fire ruby which draped from a necklace. It symbolized her connection to Spike. She liked to think she was his first. But was that really true? He'd been raised by Twilight Sparkle, after all. She'd been akin to a mother and older sister. Their bond was different, but was it deeper?

Well, she certainly didn't think envy suited her. She'd invited her into the fold, after all. She'd chosen her and Applejack due to their maturity and her close friendship with them. “No, this isn't like me. We're all equals.” What had brought this on? Discord's recent meddling? No, that had only strenghtened their bond. She looked at a portrait of Sweetie Belle, who'd grown so much over the years. “That must be it. Applejack is ready to bear Spike's offspring, and Twilight raised him, but what makes our connection special? Is there something other than myself I may offer him to further our union? I've no wish to be a mother...”

Her thoughts were interrupted by a rap at her door. She hopped up and trotted over, taking a moment to bounce her curls, and peeked outside. “Trixie?!” The magician held her point hat to her breast, smiling. “Um, do come in.” Her guest followed her inside, where she led her to a table, and started to brew some tea. “So, what may I do for you?”

Trixie plopped her bottom down on a chair and tossed her starry cape onto a rack, where a number of hats and coats rested which Rarity had personally stitched. “Well...you are the head of Spike's herd, aren't you?”

“I did form the herd, and it is true I often take the lead, but if anypony is our leader, it would be Spike. That's part of our agreement as his herd members. Of course, he's far too much of a gentledrake to take charge most of the time.” She smiled wistfully, enveloped a tea jug with the aura from her glowing horn, and poured the steaming contents into tea cups. She placed them upon a table covered by a doily and sat across from her. “Why do you ask? I hope you like chamomile, by the way.”

“It's fine. Trixie does her best not to be too picky.” She tossed her mane with a flourish and took a sip. “About Spike, well, you see...” She fiddled with her hat. “W-would you be willing to accept another member into your herd?”

Rarity stared blankly for a moment, then burst into laughter. “Fine,” said Trixie who scrunched her muzzle and rose. “Trixie knows where she's not wanted!” She started to storm towards her cape when the fashionista intercepted her.

“Wait! Forgive me. That was uncalled for. You simply...surprised me.” She laid a forehoof on Trixie's shoulder and smiled. She'd obviously chose her over Twilight or Applejack because she wanted somepony approachable, and she'd almost let her down. “Why would you wish to be a part of our herd? Surely you and Starlight are happy together?”

“Oh, well, we have lots of fun, but Trixie would like something a little more permanent.” She softened and looked skyward with a smile. “Plus, Spike is...simply better than any stallion or mare I've been with, at least in the bedroom.” She blushed hard. It wasn't easy to confess. She figured Applejack would mock her, and as for Twilight, well she'd never let her live this down!

“I'd have to discuss it with the others,” reminded Rarity who tried not to wound her pride any further. “Furthermore, I'm not certain how well you would fit in. No offense intended, dear, but we all share a close bond.” She led her back to the table, where they settled back in, and sipped at their tea. “Why not relax, and perhaps let me know you better?”

“As you wish. But I warn you, Trixie's backstory is rather convoluted!”

She listened as Trixie rattled on about her life, hopes, and dreams, which Rarity listened to patiently and intently. Usually the pair kept their distance, almost frenemies at times while Starlight acted as a mediator, but perhaps they could be close friends after all? She certainly didn't want to let old tensions weigh her down! Granted, neither was she sure Trixie would match well with their chemistry. The ours wore on while she continued to refill their cups and discussed their future.

*****

Twilight straddled Spike's muscular, leathery back, and bounced atop him while they rode down the halls of Canterlot's palace. Guards nodded while they passed down the carpeted hallway. She waved back and sat between his soft spines like they were a saddle. Once they reached the end the double doors creaked open, and she inhaled with a hoof pressed to her bosom. “Wait here, Spike.” She slid down. She'd been summoned by the Princesses for reasons they refused to make clear.

“Are you sure? I'd like to support you however I can.” He wrapped his tail around her.

“I'll be fine. How bad can it be?” She practically choked on the words. Was it about her controversial decision to join a herd? Was that why Spike came too, because he also suspected as much? No, he was here to support her, and besides, it wouldn't do to let her paranoia run away with her. She held her head upright and marched her way into the throne room.

Celestia and Luna were seated side-by-side on their thrones. Raised high above her, they looked down on her cooly, and she bowed in their presence out of habit, despite the number of times they told her she was considered an equal now. Of course there were certain rules of decorum that they all felt needed to be observed in their presence. “Welcome, my former student.”

She met their invasive stares. “You requested my presence?”

“Indeed. Sorry about all the secrecy,” said Luna. “But we believed it best to inform you in person.”

Celestia beckoned her closer with a forehoof and tenderly smiled. “Have you ever wondered if we're immortal?”

“Many times. And I've pondered if I am, too...” She wasn't certain which would be worse. To leave this world she loved so dearly after such a short time, or to watch her loved ones wither away and die? Her eyes watered at the concept.

“I fear you are not,” announced Luna. “At least, not yet.”

“You see there will come a time when we wish to pass on our responsibilities. We needed to direct you until we felt you were entirely ready. Forgive the deception. My sister often argued otherwise, but I feared burdening you with so much at once would weigh too heavily on your mind.” Celestia pursed her lips, hopeful that she'd made the correct decision.

Twilight tried to take this all in. “What do you mean by not yet?”

“A transference of our power. At least a portion of it,” explained Celestia. “In truth we're not certain whether we're immortal, either. There was no manual on how to be an alicorn when we came into existence. But that is a tale for another time!” She tittered warmly. “However, first we must ask you, in your own words...what makes you worthy of such a boon?”

Luna appeared like she was ready to intervene but kept her mouth pursed and patiently waited.

“I...I...” A number of her better traits came to mind. But was it her place to brag? She paused and tried to take a thoughtful, objective view of her strengths and shortcomings. “While there is always more to learn, I'd like to believe I'm smart, thoughtful, and determined. I've learned much from my close circle of friends, no, everypony I've met, even my enemies.”

Luna raised an eyebrow. “And you believe this is sufficient to succeed us?”

“I think i-in time.” She stumbled over her words and stared down at her forehooves. Had she miscalculated? Suddenly the doors were cast back open, and Spike padded in, his features drawn in determination. “Spike?! Don't worry, I can handle this!”

“I know. Sorry, I didn't intend to eavesdrop, but a dragon's ears are more sensitive.” He twitched the fin-like extensions which had overheard their conversation. “Anyhow, Twilight loves Equestria as much as anypony! She always tries her hardest and makes whatever personal sacrifices she has to without a second thought! Why is she worthy? Well, who would be better?!”

She almost wept to hear him advocate for her. “It's okay, Spike. But thank you.”

For a moment neither of the sisters spoke. “I see,” stated Celestia. “Certainly, those are all admirable traits.”

Spike bristled with frustration. “What more could she possibly need?! Do you know how many times she's saved Equestria?!”

“Don't Spike,” said Twilight amidst his tirade. She suddenly felt more self-conscious than ever. But the fact that he'd risk it all for her sake made her heart swell, too. She was more convinced than ever that becoming a part of his herd had been the right choice. She was more than content. She was happy. And she wouldn't trade that for anything!

Celestia lifted a forehoof. “Step aside, Spike.” He hesitated several moments, then reluctantly did so, but his hackles were still raised, like he was ready to pounce to his mate's defense at any moment. “Twilight, close your eyes.” She did as instructed and tried to relax despite the pitter-patter of her heart ringing in her ears. “This may feel a little odd, but it's perfectly safe, I assure you. Forgive the deception, but I felt it necessary to test you, to make absolutely certain you were ready for the next step.”

The sisters concentrated and spread their plumes to their full width. Their horns shimmered until they were suffused with a tremendous portion of their magic. It was a complicated, ancient spell, known only to the two of them, and once invoked it couldn't be taken back. Multicolored waves of energy spread out and washed directly over Twilight. She shivered amidst the shimmer and soaked in the warmth which filled her to the core. She started to float while a smile split her maw.

Spike watched with naked pride down to his toothy smirk. He stood tall as he shined under the brilliant light-show.

After several minutes the sisters finally withdrew their spell, and Twilight touched down on all hooves with practiced grace, the trio huffing after the transfer of power. “A portion of our lifespan is now yours,” said Luna. “Celestia originally intended to do this alone, but I insisted we split the burden, so she wouldn't be overly taxed. I certainly don't wish to outlive her.”

Celestia's cheeks turned rosy in a rare display of vulnerability. She tried to project the image of an untouchable Goddess not out of pride, but for the sake of her citizens who depended on her, knowing that any doubt would be a blow to Equestria's morale. “You flatter me, sister.” She tittered. “One day, my former student, you may even take our place as head of Equestria!”

“Not any time soon, I hope.” Twilight felt stronger and bolder than ever. Like she could take on anything thrown her way! She couldn't wait to share this with all her loved ones, especially her other herd members. Of course it made her ambivalent to know she'd now outlast them, but at least Applejack would live on if she proved able to carry Spike's eggs. Rarity was trickier since she seemed unwilling to become a mother, but perhaps she'd change her mind one day? A part of her certainly hoped so.

“Fare thee well,” called Luna with a wave when they started to leave.

“Yes, we will always be watching over you.” Celestia watched the pair retreat, satisfied she'd done her duty.

Clops sounded with an echo when Twilight and Spike retreated from the throne room and exited the palace back into Canterlot. She decided to test her newly expanded power, laid a hoof upon Spike's shoulder, and with a blink made the longest-ranged teleport she'd ever dared, with a blink vanishing and reappearing with him back in the middle of Ponyville. “I'm sure you'd like to visit Rarity,” she mused with a tilt of her head at the Carousel Boutique nearby. In truth she wanted to see her too.

“Busted!” He chuckled, thankful that his herd weren't the jealous types. He smacked her on the ass with an audible whack, a reminder that he valued and desired her. She still flushed a little when he did that in public but snickered with him.

The pair started to approach the Carousel Boutique when the door suddenly opened with a bell's clink. From it exited Rarity followed by Trixie, who were currently engaged in conversation. “Oh! Hello, Twilight, Spike!” Rarity batted her dark lashes at them, adorned by a frilly saddle she'd custom made in honor of her alpha drake. “Look who I ran into.”

Trixie doffed her hat. “Rarity has heard Trixie's proposal, so I may as well lay it on you, too. Don't laugh.” It took every ounce of restraint she had to sound humble. “Trixie...I wish to become a member of this herd.” She attempted to drop all pretense.

Spike tried to hide his smirk at the idea. Not that he wasn't satisfied with his mares, but he had to admit she was incredibly adorable in a somewhat annoying sort of way, which made her endearing in a sense unlike his current companions. But once more he could see the reluctance on Sparkle's pensive features. He tried to play it cool. “Well...I'll leave it to their discretion.”

“I'll fetch Applejack,” said Twilight once she'd recovered her senses. “Heck, let's head over to Sweet Apple Acres! I hope she won't mind if we drop on in! We'll discuss it over lunch, okay?” She prepared to blink them away once more. It was the second time her world had been turned upside-down today. Sure, she knew Spike was a fantastic lay, but this was a bit much!

*****

Schlicks sounded when Applejack rubbed a forehoof over her puffy marehood. Sprawled in her old bedroom, she'd turned over pictures of her family so they couldn't see her shameful display, and stroked her tight slit all the way to her swelled clitoris. She'd tossed aside her stetson, a blonde mane swished around her like a curtain, and her freckled udders rapidly rose-and fell.

She panted and worked herself into a frenzy. Heat built in her loins. Lubrication wept from her twat and drenched her puckered anus and tussled bedsheets. “Ah Spike,” she crooned as her fantasies of the night he'd finally rut her senseless to completion played out repeatedly. She'd forego Zecora's contraceptive potions, and find out whether ponies and dragons could successfully breed. “Give it t-to me pardner,” she moaned low with a bite of her lip. “Knock me up with your foals!”

She felt the familiar contractions in her sex holes and scrunched up her dotted face. Her back arced, and she thrust her hips skyward, until the first splashes jetted from her, yet again drenching her walls. But she couldn't stop now. She simply rode out the torrents which splattered her room, trying to hush her squeals in case somepony came to investigate, spurting and twitching and finally landing with a thump and creak of the bed onto her freckly bottom. “A-ah...that hit the spot....”

She licked her moist forehoof to taste herself. A smack sounded and she savored the salty flavor. Likewise she breathed in her own feminine, earthy musk which further aroused her. Would she be ready for Spike when the moment came? Sure, they'd make love countless times, but she wanted the act to be perfect. A moment they'd remember forever when he put a bun in her oven!

Satisfied for the moment, she cleaned up best she could, recovered her hat, and headed outside. A quick bath would do her wonders. What she didn't expect to see was her herd dropping in, and with Trixie in tow at that! Pretty soon she'd set up a lunch date with them at the farm, and she played hostess as they settled onto a bench, where she whipped up a home-cooked meal.

Twilight told them about the power transference, while Trixie relayed her proposal, and she listened with skepticism. Her opinions on the wizardess were mixed, at best. Sure, she'd matured a little and could play nice, but she preferred not to spend too much time around her even now. But maybe she was being a smidge unfair? “Let's spend some time as a unit ya'll, then I'll decide. I reckon that's the best way to know. You'd better be on your best behavior, Trixie, if you want a fair shot at this.”

“Certainly. Trixie has learned her lesson,” she announced with boastful conviction. She studied Spike with antsy anticipation, and imagined that she could ride atop him, and perhaps sail over Equestria's entirety. She'd always dreamed big and this was no different! After all, nopony with any self-respect would simply settle for what was handed to them!

“I do believe you're sincere,” admitted Rarity who nibbled daintily at a carrot. “But it will take more than that to fit in.”

“Oh, Spike will fit me in!” Trixie coyly blinked repeatedly at him with a small flush. She pressed close to him as she dared, not quite touching, but to where she could feel his body heat and breathe in his masculine scent.

“Let's not be hasty, now. One thing at a time.” AJ shook her head at her shameless flirting. The mare obviously knew what she wanted and did her best to take it. In a way she could respect that sort of forthrightness. Of course she couldn't tolerate anypony trampling on others to get what they wanted, but she knew Spike would respect whatever choices the trio made. Of course he'd make the final decision after their votes were tallied. Until then she'd simply see how events played out.