Pretty Little Ditty

by Closer-To-The-Sun

Rating: everyone
Tags: Slice of Life, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Sad, Romance
Length: 13218

A compilation of short, one chapter fan-fictions.

"It's a luscious mix of words and tricks,/That let us bet when you know we should fold." -The Shins, ‘Caring Is Creepy’

A compilation of short, one chapter fan-fics I have written that are too short to stand on their own. From fics that ship school fillies and colts to stories that I wrote to put me in a better mood. I will write more as time goes on, and perhaps I will explore more on these fics if I get enough feedback, who knows? Don't expect too much from these little scribbles, but please enjoy.

Sequel to "Dirty Leaves And The Dirty Ground": "Reckless Abandon"

NOTE: The short fic, 'Rocking The Casbah: Trees Of Everfree' was written as a news article for and was published in the Everfree NW 2013 ConBook. It was slightly edited for publication.

NOTE: The tags are as best fitting as I can get them for all of the stories.

Published 2012-08-23 13:34:02 UTC
Last updated 2013-08-15 22:33:33 UTC

Pretty In Pink (Diamond Tiara X Snails)

Pretty In Pink

“And loses herself in her dreaming and sleep/and her lovers walk through in their coats/She’s pretty in pink/Isn’t she pretty in pink?/Isn’t she?” –The Psychedelic Furs, “Pretty In Pink”

A pink pony was waiting on a bridge. Looking over the railing, she looked at her reflection in the water. Her white and pink mane looked as if it was moving according to the water's reflection. But she knew there was no breeze or anything of the sort. If there was, she wouldn't have worn the tiara that she normally would be placed on her head. It was her name, after all, and Diamond Tiara would look odd without it.

She looked up from the water to see an orange colt with a green mane walking to where she was. Diamond Tiara blushed slightly as she saw the unicorn. She looked away from him, trying to keep the prim and proper atmosphere about her.

"Hiya, Diamond Tiara," the colt greeted her as he drew closer and stepped onto the bridge.

"Oh, Snails, I see that you came," Diamond spoke, giving a bit of attitude to her 'surprised' reaction.

Snails gave a small laugh as one of his front hooves rubbed the back of his neck, "Heh, well yeah. I had a feeling you gave me that note. I mean, your writing is really nice and all. Anyway, what's up?"

"Uh, yeah….um….I kind of got something to tell you," Diamond spoke, looking anywhere she could except at Snails and the sweet smile he had on his face.

"Tell me? This isn't like when you had to 'tell me something' when we were little and Silver Spoon came up behind me with a bucket of mud and poured it on me, is it?" Snails asked, turning his head around, looking to make sure he didn't see a grey pony with a braided grey mane, "Even though you girls found it funny, my mom didn't."

The pink earth pony couldn't help but smile at the memory. She and Silver Spoon wanted to coat Snails in mud and call him a pig. They didn't expect that Snails would also find it funny. The unicorn even started to oink playfully. While Silver Spoon was disgusted, Diamond thought it added to the moment.

"No, no, this isn't anything like that," Diamond replied, trying to hide her smile.

"Or is it the time that you turned the school's hose on me during recess because the two of you thought I didn't bathe?" Snails asked again.

Diamond thought back at that time. She had to admit that in retrospect, she was quite the mean little filly before she got her cutie mark. And Diamond realized she did have a tendency to pick on Snails since they grew up together and she had known him for as long as she could remember.

"Not like that, either. Listen, this is….different," the pink pony was annoyed with herself for not coming up with the right words.

"Different?" Snails tilted his head to the side.

"Yes. I know I haven't exactly treated you all that great since….as long as we've known each other. But I really want to say I'm sorry for all of that," Diamond finally had the courage to look at Snails in the eyes and return the smile he had on his face.

"Really? No fooling?" Snails' face beamed.

Diamond nodded, "Yes, really."

"Gosh, that's really kind of you, Diamond Tiara! It really means a lot to me," Snails happily thanked Diamond as his face became a little pink.

Looking back down at the water over the railing, she continued, "And….there is something else…."

"Hmm?"

Diamond's tongue felt strange as she spoke, "I've noticed that….over the years we have known each other….you were…..unusual compared to the other colts. You were always nice to everypony you met and never failed to have a smile on your face. Even when we threw mud at you or sabotaged your lunch, you had that stupid smile on your face. And even after all that we put you through, you were incredibly kind and sweet to us. Like when my mom forgot to pack my lunch, you shared your lunch with me, even giving me your cupcake that you were looking forward to eating. I even remember the time I tripped and cried on the playground, you carried me on your back to Miss Cheerilee. I knew you were having trouble, but you had the smile on your face and reassured me it would all be okay." Diamond closed her eyes for a few seconds. Upon opening them, they were wet with a few tears. She turned to Snails and looked into his eyes with a smile.

Snails was unsure of both what to say and do. He continued to listen to the mare.

Diamond resumed to conclude, "I guess what I'm basically saying is that I never realized exactly how lucky I am to know such a wonderful pony as you. I'm just really sad it took me this long to see it."

The colt's face became a bold pink at Diamond's words and each memory came back to Snails. Nervously, he spoke "Al-alright….um, is that it then?"

Diamond Tiara's face became a bright red as she spoke with an annoyed tone and looked directly at him, "Darn it, you imbecile."

Before either of the ponies could process the next second, Diamond Tiara moved her face close to Snails and kissed him directly on his lips. The pink pony's eyes were closed as her face felt as if it was on fire. As for Snails, his face felt exactly the same as his eyes showed how shocked he was as they stayed opened for the duration of the kiss.

Finally, Diamond broke the kiss and looked to Snails, her face still a bright red, "There. Does that answer about what this was about?"

Snails was still in a bit of a shock, "Y-Yeah…."

The mare edged on, "And?"

"I'm still trying to make sure this isn't my imagination…."

Diamond sighed, "You can be so dense….you're lucky you are also extremely cute."

END

Hurt (Twilight Sparkle X Spike)

Hurt

“If I could start again/A million miles away/I will keep myself/I would find a way.” –Nine Inch Nails, “Hurt”

Night had blanketed Equestria. The only natural light given was from Princess Luna's moon and the stars that dotted the sky. There was, however, light from inside of buildings shining out into the night. One of those builds was the Ponyville library, home of the resident librarian, Twilight Sparkle, and her assistant Spike. Inside, the purple unicorn was lying on a couch, reading from a book. Unfortunately, her favorite pastime was interrupted by the front door being flung open by a sobbing dragon.

Alarmed, Twilight Sparkle looked at who entered, "Spike? What's wrong? Are you okay?"

Spike didn't speak, he rushed as fast as his little legs could carry him. Passing the bookshelves and the unicorn, the purple and green dragon made his way up the staircase to his small bed. Diving head first into his bed, he buried his head into his pillows he continued sobbing..

A few moments later, Twilight trotted up behind the crying dragon and echoed her concern, "Spike, are you alright? Did something happen?"

Taking quick, staccato breaths, Spike replied, "She….she said….no...."

"I beg your pardon?" the pony couldn't follow.

"Rarity…." he restated as he spoke between tears, "she….told me….she already….had s-somepony special…."

The mare took a big sigh of relief, "That's it? Goodness, Spike, I was worried that it was something awful."

"But it is!" the dragon cried out.

"Spike, it's not the end of Equestria. So what if she has somepony special?" Twilight used her magic to get a tissue for Spike.

"I loved her, Twilight….I really did," Spike's voice was becoming more relaxed, but he was still crying.

"I know, Spike."

Taking the tissue, the small dragon wiped his eyes of his tears. There was a pause between the two that only had the sound of Spike sniffling between the two.

Twilight broke the silence, "How are you feeling Spike?"

Spike raised a eyebrow, "Well, I'm sad. Isn't that kind of obvious?"

"Well yes, but I meant aren't you happy for her?"

Spike was puzzled, "Happy for her?"

"Yeah, now that she has somepony special. Remember when she was stressed about Prince Blueblood after the gala?"

Sighing, Spike agreed, "I guess you have a point, Twilight. I am happy for her, but…."

"But?"

"It hurts…."

Giving a small smirk, Twilight gave a hug to her crestfallen assistant, "I know it does, Spike. Such things always will hurt."

Hugging the mare back, Spike's eyes began to water slightly, "When will it stop?"

"I don't know, Spike….it might never stop hurting," Twilight's eyes also began to turn misty as she held the dragon, "but no matter how much it hurts, I'll be here for you, Spike."

END

Ugly (Silver Spoon X Snips)

Ugly

“I don't look in the mirror/I don't like what I see staring back at me/Everything is clearer/I'll never see what you see/It's not me/So beautiful and free/I'll never be what you need/Can't help at all/I was born so beautiful/But now I'm ugly.” –Smashing Pumpkins, “Ugly”

The final bell had rang and the school day was over for Miss Cheerilee's class of youngsters. All of the fillies and colts rushed out the door to start their bright and sunny weekend. One blue colt, however, was a bit slower than he normally would be. On any other day, he would be rushing out with his best friend and the two unicorns would find some mischief to occupy their time. But today, Snips was the last to exit the schoolhouse. Using his magic, he levitated a piece of parchment that he found at his desk after lunch. Scribbled on the paper was the statement, "Meet me at the big oak tree just outside of the schoolyard after class."

The small blue unicorn trotted along, puzzled on who would give him a note. "Thinking about it, I guess it could be anypony, but why?" Snips thought to himself aloud.

As he drew nearer to the tree, a figure appeared in his line of sight. Squinting his eyes, he recognized the pony's coat and mane by their grey shade. It was Silver Spoon.

"Uh, hi, Silver Spoon," Snips said as he trotted closer.

Silver Spoon, who noticed Snips arriving, tried to look away from the small pony, "Oh, hello Snips." Her voice was prissy and in a tone familiar to anypony who knew her and her best friend, Diamond Tiara.

"Hey, you wouldn't happen to have seen anypony else around here?" Snips asked, looking around for others.

"Nope, just myself," the grey earth pony answered, fixing her light blue framed glasses that sat on her face.

"Huh, weird. Cause I got a note from somepony about them meeting me here for something," the unicorn commented, turning his attention back to Silver Spoon.

The filly gave a small glare to Snips, "That was me."

Snips was understandably confused, "Say what?"

"I wrote that letter to talk to you in private."

"Um, okay then. Why?"

Taking a deep breath, Silver Spoon closed her eyes and tilted her head downward, "Because I want to say….I like you…."

Snips didn't reply.

"I said I like you, Snips," the grey filly opened her eyes and aimed her eyes at the colt's face, "I'm not sure why, but I do. And I have for a while…."

The surprised expression on the unicorn's face turned to one of doubt, "This is one of your jokes, isn't it?"

Silver Spoon couldn't believe her ears, "Huh? What do you mean?"

Snips became defensive, "I wasn't born yesterday, Silver Spoon. You and Diamond Tiara have been very mean to be in the past. You two have tripped me numerous times, done things to my belongings, and called me many hurtful things."

Silver Spoon's ears flattened against her head, "I know…."

"And some of the things you've said….how I was ugly….it really hurt me…." Snips' voice was very bold and serious despite his hushed volume.

Fighting back a couple of tears, Silver Spoon spoke again, "I do remember how I called you names….and I really am sorry for all of that. Honest. And saying that you were ugly….well, on the inside….I'm the ugly one….and it bothers me. Sometimes I don't like to look at myself in the mirror because of how I treated you….you deserve better."

The unicorn looked to the side with a hurt expression, not speaking.

"You're a really wonderful colt. Kind, caring, thoughtful, and just charming in your own unique way. It's just a shame ponies can't look past something as trivial as appearance," the grey filly continued with her words.

"But why are you so mean to me if you think those things?" Snips asked in a pleading manner.

"And that is why I'm sick of myself. I try constantly to be the best filly I can….but ever since I was little, my method of getting anypony's attention was through being just plain awful. Since it worked with my family, I figured it would work elsewhere. But it seems to have just isolated me from ponies that I could have been great friends with, like you. I guess it turned me ugly," Silver Spoon gave a heavy sigh as she finished. While she felt relieved, it didn't make her feel better.

Snips listened closely to the earth pony's words. It allowed him to see a side of Silver Spoon he never thought could exist. The pony in front of him, the one that use to bully him, was now bearing her soul to him.

"So….could you ever forgive me, Snips?" Silver Spoon looked into Snips eyes, failing to fight off the tears forming in her eyes.

As much as the colt wanted to forgive and forget the past he shared with Silver Spoon, he couldn't bring himself to say the words. A gentle breeze blew by the two schoolponies, rustling Snips' messy orange mane and causing Silver Spoon's braided mane to swing slightly. A chill ran up both of their spines.

With silence as her answer, the filly took her glasses off and brushed away the tears that began to fall down her cheeks. Trying to return to her normal attitude, she spoke, "It's fine. Not like I blame you or anything." When the glasses returned to their proper place in front of the filly's eyes, she saw a smile on Snips' face.

"Yes, of course I can forgive you," the warm smile on the colt's face was accompanied with a slight tint of pink in his cheeks.

Silver Spoon's face quickly became flushed at his response, "R-Really?"

Snips nodded as his face beamed, "Everypony deserves a second chance!"

Overcome with joy, Silver Spoon wrapped her hooves around Snips' neck, hugging him tightly as a different type of tears rolled down her face, "Oh, thank you, Snips. For just being you…."

Returning the hug, the colt added one more statement, "And I do like you back, Silver Spoon."

END

Helpless (Snails X Twist)

Helpless

“With dream comfort memory to spare/And in my mind I still need a place to go/All my changes were there.” –Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, “Helpless”

In the busy market section of Ponyville, a cream colored pony with a frizzy red mane was happily trotting along with her saddlebag. Her large purple glasses was the most notable feature that everypony knew Twist for. The filly seemed to not have a care in the world as she continued her shopping.

"Let'th thee…." Twist spoke to herself, recounting her shopping list in her mind, "I got thome appleth, and I got thome carrotth too. Now, am I mithing a few cupcaketh for lat-"

Twist's statement was cut short as she was bumped from behind. The sudden hit caused Twist to move forward and trip over her own hooves. Landing on her face, her glasses fell off and slid forward on the ground.

"Oh no, my glatheth….I can't thee without them…." Twist struggled to stand back up on her hooves with a few scratches on her body, "Can thomepony pleath help me find my glatheth?"

The pony's question fell on deaf ears as the crowd continued on their own way, ignoring the filly in need. Seeing she had to rely on herself, Twist took a few steps forward, waving a hoof before each step in hopes to find her glasses.

Among the bustling crowd's trotting and talking, Twist heard a loud crunch of glass and plastic. After that sound, Twist's ears flattened against her head as she continued to look for her glasses.

A few moments passed before she heard a familiar voice, causing her ears to perk up, "Twist? Are you alright?"

Looking to where the voice came from, the filly saw an orange figure with green blotches, "Thnailth? Ith that you?"

"Yeah, it's me. Where are your glasses?" Snails asked, tilting his head to the side.

"My glatheth….I can't find them. Thomebody bumped me by accident and they fell and….I think they might be broken….at least my thaddlebag held everything and nothing fell," Twist explained.

"I'll help you find them, Twist, don't worry," Snails reassured his classmate.

An expression of relief washed over the filly's face, "Oh, thank you Thnailth…."
The two ponies slowly scanned the ground for the purple-framed glasses. Twist seemed to get more and more worried by the passing second. Not being able to see anything was a major fear of hers, and the longer she went without her glasses, the more her eyes hurt.

"I found them, Twist," Snails called out.

"You did?"

Using his magic, Snails levitated the broken glasses, "Yeah, but they are kind of broken."

"Oh no…. my glatheth…." crestfallen, Twist's ears were flattened again, "At leatht I thill have the thpare pair."

"Then let's get you home to get them," the colt suggested.

"But….I can't thee…."

"I can carry you, Twist," Snails offered.

"O-Okay…." Twist replied nervously.

"Alright, hold still," the colt said as he used his unicorn magic to levitate Twist a few inches of the ground. The filly waved her limbs wildly as she was in the air. Snails told her to relax or he might lose focus on the magic. He carefully placed the cream colored filly on his orange back. As soon as Twist landed on Snails' back, she wrapped her front hooves around his neck tightly for security.

"You okay back there?" Snails asked, levitating the broken glasses up again.

"Yeth….juth pleath be careful, Thnailth," there was a worried tone in Twist's voice.

"Of course."

Snails began to trot carefully with the filly on his back. Twist was clinging tightly to the orange unicorn's neck. Despite her fear of falling and her hurting eyes, she felt safe in Snails' care. The thought of her being safe with the colt caused her cheeks to turn pink.

Holding herself close to Snails, Twist whispered, "Thank you, Thnailth, for everything."

Smiling, Snails also blushed, "It's nothing, Twist. I always like doing what I can to help those who are close to me."

The unicorn's words caused the filly to smile brightly. Closing her eyes, she snuggled closer to Snails' neck.

END

Float On (Spike X Pinkie Pie)

Float On

“Don't worry even if things end up a bit/Too heavy we'll all float on, alright.” –Modest Mouse, “Float On”

It was a pleasant and sunny day in Ponyville, perfect weather for the traveling carnival to visit the small town. Ponies of all ages were at the enjoying the many wonders that the fair had to offer. From rides and shows to food and games, everypony present were having fun. And for one particular purple and green dragon, this was true.

Given the day off from Twilight Sparkle, Spike was happily walking around to the different booths, taking in the different aromas of the food, looking at the various shows, or whatever the booth might be showcasing. With a large pretzel in one claw and a string to a pink balloon in the other, the baby dragon was having a wonderful day.

Making is way to an empty area of the fair grounds, Spike found a tree, under which he planned to finish his snack before returning back to the library. “Honestly, Twilight doesn’t know what she’s missing! This carnival is amazing!” Spike spoke to himself, taking a huge bite of his pretzel. “And the food is incredible!”

“Yup yup!” a very cheery voice replied along with the head of a pink pony.

The sudden surprise of company caused Spike to drop the snack and release his grip on the string.

“Hiya, Spike!” the pony greeted the dragon, revealing her whole pink body along with her messy mane and tail. While it was odd that balloons were tied to her limbs, it wasn’t exactly strange for Pinkie to do something of the sort.

The dragon let out a sigh of relief, “Oh, thank goodness it’s just you, ya really startled me, Pinkie Pie.” He placed one of his claws on his chest over his heart.

Pinkie giggled, “Hee hee, sorry Spikey! What’cha doin’ way over here? The fun stuff is over there!”

“I was going to finish my pretzel, but I guess I won’t be doing that anymore,” Spike said with a hint of crestfallenness in his voice, looking down at his half-eaten treat.

“Oh, I’m so sorry, Spike! I didn’t mean for that to happen! I just figured that I could come on over and see you and stuffs! And show off my balloons!” Pinkie said as she showcased the balloon strings tied to her hooves, two on each hoof, “I feel like I could just float away!”

“Balloons? Hey, where did my balloon go?” the dragon realized that he wasn’t holding on to the cord that was attached to his balloon.

“Is that it?” the mare pointed up to the canopy of the tree. Spike’s eyes followed the hoof and saw that his balloon was caught up in the branches of the tree, barely staying under the protection of the tree’s leaves that kept it from floating away.

“Oh, Celestia….” Spike mumbled as he went over to jump up and grab the string of the balloon. However, he had no luck.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean for you to let go of your balloon either,” Pinkie apologized again.

The dragon gave a sigh before jumping up again, “It’s not your fault, I’m just too short to get it.”

For a few more moments, Pinkie Pie watched a few more of Spike’s attempts to get his balloon back. Each time, he missed the cord completely.

“I got it!” the pink pony proclaimed.

“Got what?” Spike asked before jumping up again.

“I shall get your balloon!”

Spike gave a puzzled look to the mare, “Huh?”

Before he knew it, Spike was hanging on to all eight of Pinkie’s multi-colored balloons that were previous tied to her limbs. Spike clung tightly onto the balloon strings to not let them float away, but also because he felt that at any moment, the balloons would cause his small body to drift away.

“Now, hang on to those balloons while I hop up into the tree get your balloon back!” Pinkie boldly stated as she turned to assess how she was going to climb the tree.

“Uh, Pinkie? Ya really don’t have to,” Spike insisted, not only because he didn’t want her to get hurt, but also because he was afraid that the balloons would carry him away if he held them any longer.

“Nonsense! I’ll be back down in two shakes of your scaly tail!” the pony began her quick climb.

Spike was too nervous to actually shake his tail, in fear that he would lose his grip on the balloons.

Shimmying along the main branch towards the balloon, Pinkie had a smile on her face, “Getting close! Just a bit more.” She inched closer and closer to the prize, even swiping at it a few times, but to no success. “Tricky little balloon!” Finally, it went out of her reach as she bumped it forward, out from under the canopy of trees and drifting off into the wind. A sad expression appeared on the pink pony’s face.

“I’m sorry I couldn’t get the balloon, Spike,” Pinkie said when she returned to the ground. Her ears were flat against her head. It really seemed that she was troubled that she failed her self-imposed goal.

The baby dragon took note of such and tried to comfort the pink pony, “Uh, no worries, Pinkie Pie. I mean, you did try, and that’s all I can really ask, right? That’s what Twilight keeps telling me when I mess up.”

A smile returned to the party pony’s face, “Aww, thankies, Spikey!” She wrapped her front limbs around the baby dragon. With the sound of surprise, Spike accidently let go of all of Pinkie Pie’s balloons he was desperately clinging on to. Pinkie seemed to have noticed this, to which she quickly grabbed the cord of one of the balloons before it flew too far off.

Watching the rest of the balloons drift off, Spike felt awful, “Oh no….sorry about that, Pinkie. Guess I messed up again….”

“Messed up? Silly, that’s what I wanted to do!” Pinkie cheerfully stated as she patted Spike on the head with her spare hoof.

“Come again?”

“I got those balloons to let them free! I love to watch balloons float on into the unknown, and you got to help me today! Thank you!” the smile on Pinkie’s face seemed to be impossibly big, even by Pinkie’s standards.

“Oh….um, okay….” the dragon was confused about both what she meant and what to say, “uh….you’re welcome?”

“And to say thanks, I say we get some candy!”

“I like that idea!” Spike said with an eager smile.

“But first!” Pinkie interjected.

“But first?”

With a giggle, Pinkie Pie tied the balloon she plucked out of the air to one of Spike’s wrists, “There, now you can do it as well later today! Just don’t float away on me!”

END

Good Feeling (Spike X Applebloom)

Good Feeling

“Good feeling/Won't you stay with me just a little longer/It always seem like you're leaving/When I need you here just a little longer.” –Violent Femmes, “Good Feeling”

At Sweet Apple Acres, two youngsters were playing in the apple orchards late in the afternoon. One of them, the yellow, earth pony filly, was running around and through the trees. Zigging and zagging, her red mane and tail, along with her large pink bow, flowed as she dashed away from her friend. Following close behind was a purple and green dragon. Though his body was small, he was closing the gap between them.

"You can't run forever, Applebloom!" the dragon called out with a playful smirk.

With a laugh, the pony replied, "Ah'm tellin' ya, Spike, ya can't keep up with the likes of me! Ah'm the best crusader when it comes ta playin' tag!"

"That doesn't mean you won't get tired!" Spike sounded determined to win.

Playfully, Applebloom stuck her tongue out at the dragon before bolting off deeper into the orchard. Spike followed, no willing to let her escape his sight.

Suddenly, Applebloom noticed that the sky was turning into different colors. Paused, she waited for Spike to catch up to her, "It's gettin' pretty late, do ya wanna call it a draw?"

Prideful, Spike refused, "No way! I'm not going to lose to you just like that!"

With a sly grin, she slightly shoved Spike down with her hooves before resuming her running, "Then try not ta lose!"

Picking himself up off the ground, Spike moved quickly to continue his pursuit of the little filly. This time, however, Spike was able to not only tag Applebloom, but also tackle her to the ground. Letting out an 'eep' in surprise, the little pony began to wrestle with the baby dragon playfully. Their laughter echoed as it grew later. Before too long, Celestia's sun retreated behind the horizon and night blanketed Equestria.

Spike was the first to stand up and make a statement, "Wow, it really did get dark fast."

"Yer not a scaredy dragon, are ya?" Applebloom edged him on.

"Pfft, no way," Spike partly lied. While the dark didn't bother him, it was the fact that he didn't want to admit that he had no idea which way led back to the farm and then back to Ponyville.

"Good, because ah don't think Rarity would think it very brave of ya if ya can't handle a lil' darkness," the filly giggled, trotting along with a little moonlight shining down to illuminate the ground.

The dragon ignored the comment and his burning cheeks and spoke of something else, "Say, do you know where we are?"

"Ah think so," Applebloom replied, trying to sound reassuring, "ah wander out here quite a bit durin' applebuckin' season, so ah kinda know this place."

"Um, alright...." Spike was a little worried. He tried not to look frightened.

For a few minutes, Applebloom trotted in, what seemed to Spike, circles among the trees until she stopped abruptly.

"Ah know where it is!" she sounded excited.

"Know what now?"

Without an answer, Applebloom dashed forward into some shrubs. Spike felt nervous and scared being left alone in the dark and quickly closed the distance, "W-Wait for me!"

On the other side of the bushes, a small, abandoned shack stood in the darkness. The yellow pony was trotting up to the door and entering without hesitation. "Come on, Spike! Quit draggin' yer tail!"

He followed his commands from the pony, entering the door, "What is the place?"

Lighting a small lamp, Applebloom finally answered, "It's a secret hideout! Well, kinda. Granny told me about how she built a fort in the orchard when she was lil', but then forgot where it was. So, I went lookin' fer it one day, and this is it!"

Looking at the interior of the small shack, no bigger than two chicken coops put together, Spike noticed the plain and very bland style to the structure, "It's....nice?"

"Ah like it! Ah also hope to bring some stuff out here an' make it my little private clubhouse!" Applebloom mused just before yawning. Watching the filly yawn, it caused the dragon to yawn as well. "Ya tired out, Spike?" she asked, her hoof still up from covering her mouth.

While he didn't want to admit it, the dragon was exhausted, "I guess I am. We did kind of play all day, almost non-stop."

Giggling, Applebloom added, "An' ah did win."

"Win what?"

"Everything! I beat you at tag, wrestling, eating our lunch the fastest!" the filly gloated.

"Have you tried eating gems? It's not easy!" Spike tried to defend himself.

With more laughter, Applebloom continued, "Yer jus' grumpy 'cause ya lost! Ya'll feel better after a nap." The pony trotted to one of the walls and picked up a light blue quilt, placing it on her back.

Yawning, Spike nodded, "Have to admit, that sounds kind of nice." He sat down and leaned his back against the wall of shack. Closing his eyes, he took a few deep breaths and was quick to relax.

"Mhmm...." Applebloom agreed with this statement. She finally stopped her moving as she laid herself down next to the dragon. Her head was against Spike's legs.

This caught the dragon by surprise, "Wh-What are ya doing?" He tried not to raise his voice too loud.

"Snuggling. It's ta help keep the both of us warm," the yellow pony replied with her eyes closed and a slight pink tint to her face.

Spike saw the pink in her cheeks and took a moment before replying, "Well....if ya want, ya could rest your head on my legs. I mean, it has to be more comfortable then the floor." His own face was turning warm colors as well.

Without wasting a moment, Applebloom did just that, and snuggled closely to the dragon. A smile appeared on her face, "Thankies, Spike."

Smiling, the baby dragon replied in a hushed tone, "You're welcome." He placed his claws gently on top of the crimson mane of the filly, lightly running them through the fine hair fibers. Despite the occasional giggle from Applebloom, who was being slightly tickled by the brushing of her mane, it was absolutely peaceful in the shack.

The eternal silence was broken by the sleep-talking filly, who had just fallen asleep. In her hushed sleepy speech, she mumbled, "Ah like this feelin'....ah wish it could stay a lil' longer...."

Spike, who heard the gentle words, whispered back, "I do too...."

END

Heima [At Home]

Heima [At Home]

"Þúsund orð í arum/Þúsund ár sem segja allt sem er/Enginn sér, á bak við orðin tóm/Býr alltaf eitthvað." –Sigur Ros, “Heima”

(Translation: "One thousand words in years/A thousand years which tell the whole story/No one sees, behind empty words/There's always something." –Sigur Ros, “Heima”)

My name is Princess Luna. All ponies know of me. Perhaps they know of me from the classic tale of how my sister Celestia and I worked together to save Equestria from the chimera known as Discord, or perhaps they know me as the princess of night and the alicorn that moves the moon throughout the night sky. But more than likely, they know me as a monster. A monster that was once called Nightmare Moon.

This was something of my own creation. I have no excuse to give for my behavior or my actions during the time I went by that name. However, I am apologetic for my conduct and deeds. My sister was generous to me accepting me back. I was given forgiveness. I was given pardon for my endeavors. I was even given a warm welcome back by Celestia. However, it was not her I was worried about taking me back. It was the citizens of Equestria.

While I still am a princess, that doesn't exactly mean the citizens of my land can or will immediately be accepting of my return to my place next to my sister on the throne. No, I could never expect that. I have hurt many with my actions. I have altered lives of ponies everywhere. I have even made an attempt on my own sister's life. Such things like fear do not leave a pony's mind so quickly. I, Princess Luna, have been called a monster, a beast, and a sinner, and I deserve no less.

I could try to explain myself. I could explain my thousand year imprisonment on the moon and what it did to me on the inside. I can state how it was cold, how it gnawed at me knowing that while I was trapped on the moon, far away from another soul. I can describe the icy feelings I felt, both outside and in. I could say many things, but nothing would help my case.

It has been almost a year since I returned from the moon to my role as a princess. In fact, this is my first Hearth's Warming Eve since my return. I had forgotten about this holiday during my time in exile. I loved it when I was young. I would remember Celestia and I would trot around our home of Canterlot, enjoying the weather, the sights, the sounds, and everything. From the singing carolers on the street corner, to the rich scent of peppermint filling the air, from the lights that shine brightly on the cold night, to the taste of a falling snowflake gently falling to the ground, and everything in between. It's something that would always end my year wonderfully for me. It was always the highlight.

I returned back to the winter streets of Canterlot this evening. It was just as remembered. The sense-tingling atmosphere reminded me of my youth. It took me back to my childhood. Right in the middle of a street, I revisited those days the help of a group of young colts and fillies. Those youngsters joined me in tasting the snowflakes that fell down from the sky. Their laughter warmed my heart the same way Celestia's offer to accept me back had not so long ago. They thanked me for joining them, for playing with them. Their words of 'Thank you, Princess Luna', it made the years on the moon seem worth it. Those simple words made the thousand years seem worth it just to hear the fillies and colts say thank you to me.

After a thousand years, words seem to fail me to describe how I feel about this. I have shed countless tears for those I have hurt and wronged. I have regretted the harsh words that I have spoken. The wounds I have caused still hurt many. Behind the empty words of Nightmare Moon, there is a mare who grieves for what she has become known for. But slowly, time is moving on and nursing the damage that I've done. The wounds and gashes are healing. The tears on the cheeks are being wiped away.

I finally am beginning to realize where I am again. Now, I'm finally home.

END

ハズムリズム (Hazumu Rizumu) [Lively Rhythm]

ハズムリズム (Hazumu Rizumu) [Lively Rhythm]

(Japanese)
“風吹いて木々もさらさらと揺れたら/鳥だって連なって歌うよ.” –Puffy X Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra, “ハズムリズム (Hazumu Rizumu) [Lively Rhythm]”

(Romaji)
“Kaze fuite kigi mo sarasara to yuretara/Tori datta tsuranatta utau yo.” –Puffy X Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra, “ハズムリズム (Hazumu Rizumu) [Lively Rhythm]”

(Translation)
“The wind blows while swaying and rustling the trees/But the birds join together and sing.” –Puffy X Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra, “ハズムリズム (Hazumu Rizumu) [Lively Rhythm]”

Hello! I’m Pinkie Pie, but you probably already knew my name cause I know everypony! And if I didn’t know everypony, then I would go way, way out of my way to meet you and get to know you! But enough about that, on to what I am to write!

You see, after an itty bitty incident today where Twilight Sparkle and I were trotting around the town and having girl talk (oh, I just love having fun times like that with my bestest friends!), she asked me how and why I am the way I am. So then I tilted my head to the side and was all like, “Say what?” She then explained that she was curious about how I am with my personality and all that stuffs. I tried to answer her, but Twilight was saying things all like, “You’re not making sense,” “The logic you’re using is flawed,” and “Pinkie, stop juggling the fruit and put it back on the merchant’s stand.” She can be a real stick in the mud, ya know?

Anyway, she told me to write this out, describing myself and….well, me being me! So, here I go. Writing about myself. Yup….explaining how Pinkamina Diane Pie ticks on the inside….writing it out….on paper….

This is so boring! Why did Twilight make me do this? It feels like homework that’s been double dipped in sour lemon juice!

Bleh, I don’t what makes me me! All I know is that I just love to laugh! Wait, is that it? Let’s see here….I really like to make everypony happy. Like when I throw parties for them on their birthday, or when it’s the day after their birthday, or the day before their birthday. I also like to make other ponies laugh. I like to tell jokes and make them smile, it really makes me want to smile even more! Oh! And then there’s when I like to sing out and brighten everypony’s day! So, yes, I love to laugh! So, there you go Twilight!

Hmm….while that seems like that’s it, I feel like there might be more to me than just that. Also, if I show this to Twilight with only a page written, she won’t be happy with me, saying things like “You aren’t even trying” and “Please stop shouting in the library.” I keep telling her that’s my normal voice!

Anyway, another thing I like is the weather! Princess Celestia’s sun is super bright and pretty, but I do remember my mommy telling me to stop looking directly at it. It’s hard not to when it’s sitting there, tempting you with it’s shininess! Everyday, just seeing that super bright sun shining down makes me super-duper happy! And the clouds are fun, too! They hang there just waiting for the right moment to let the rain fall down onto the ground, and then I get to splash in the puddles they make! Ooo, it’s so much fun! And then winter, oh, I love winter! First the leaves of the trees fall down (which I rake up and then dive right into a big pile of fun!) and then the snow falls, in which I can make snow-pegasuses!

I also really, really like it when I sing aloud and make music! It’s really fun when I just make up songs on the fly! And when it’s with friends, it just makes it even more fun! Singing aloud is just one small thing that makes everyday life just super fun with your bestest pals! I remember when I was a little filly, my nana would sing me songs that would cheer me up and cause me to giggle when I was feeling down. Maybe it rubbed off on me? I guess so, cause I can make the entire town of Ponyville join in one of my songs if I try hard enough! Hehe, that was really fun!

But I do think that it’s just me who loves the music and singing. I also learned some of my singing talent from nature! And here is where Twilight would say “Pinkie Pie, you are speaking nonsense,” and “Could you please stop firing the party cannon at me?” But I am super serious about this! Just the other day when I was trotting over to visit Fluttershy, I heard the wind blow through the trees, and it was as if they were singing! And not only that, but it was as if the trees were swaying to their own music! It was such a wonderful tune, and then the birds joined in! After that, how could I not sing with them! All of us coming together to make such a lively rhythm and a wonderful song!

So, to answer your question Twilight, I don’t know what makes me Pinkamina Diane Pie. I don’t even know what my middle name means for that matter! All I know is that I love who I am and that there is a smile on my face and a song in my heart. Maybe that makes me Pinkie Pie?

END

Little Talks (Spike X Sweetie Belle)

Little Talks

"There's an old voice in my head that's holding me back/Well tell her that I miss our little talks/Soon it will all be over, and buried with our past/We used to play outside when we were young/And full of life and full of love." -Of Monsters And Men, "Little Talks"

It was a very warm and pleasant weekend day in Ponyville. Many of the citizens were relaxing and enjoying their day off, preparing for Hearts and Hooves Day which was just around the corner. In particular, one dragon was preparing for the event with a fire in his heart and in his breath. Spike was moving along through the streets of Ponyville towards a familiar shop, the Carousel Boutique. With a large purple gem being held by both of his claws, he hurried up to the front door. While his anxiety was bugging him quite a bit, he knocked loudly on the front door.

He waited for the door to be answered, impatiently tapping his foot. After some time, the door was opened but not by who he was expecting.

“Hello, Spike!” the cheerful white filly exclaimed.

“Oh, hey Sweetie Belle. Is Rarity home?” he asked, sneaking a peer inside of the door.

Sweetie Belle could tell what he was doing, but didn’t call him on it, “She’s not here right now, though she should back with some materials soon. She’s got a lot of dresses to work on today.”

“Oh, because of Hearts and Hooves Day and all?” the dragon remarked.

“Yup, she’s swamped with orders.”

Spike thought a moment before asking the next question, “Can I come in to wait for her?”

“Sure,” the white filly replied, inviting her friend in.

The dragon walked inside and sat down on one of the couches that Rarity had in the common area. Sweetie Belle joined him and sat down as well.

“So, what ya got there?” she asked looking at the purple gem, “It looks as big as my hoof!”

“Oh,” Spike looked at the jewel, “it’s a....uh….gift.”

“A gift?”

“Yup,” Spike nodded.

“For a special somepony?”

Spike didn’t answer.

Sweetie Belle looked towards Spike who was blushing and staring down at the gem.

“For Rarity?”

The dragon’s face grew redder at the filly’s words. It was apparent that Sweetie Belle’s words had hit the nail on the head.

Sweetie Belle sighed, “You really like her, don’t ya Spike?”

Spike was quick to defend himself, turning his head towards the pony, “What if I do, huh?”

“I never said there was anything bad about that….” Sweetie Belle looked away with her words trailing off.

“Then what about it?” the dragon cross-examined the young pony.

The filly replied in a hushed tone, “It’s just that it seems you forgot about me, that’s all….”

“Forgot about you?” Spike raised an eyebrow.

“Yeah….I mean, remember when we used to just hang out and do stuff?” Sweetie Belle looked down at the floor, her words crestfallen and harking back, “When you used to come over and have fun with me and the other crusaders? Or when it was just me and we would just talk about silly things? I miss our little talks, they were fun.”

The dragon was surprised of what he was hearing, “Sweetie Belle….”

“I even remember when we would go play outside and just have so much fun. But now, it seems that you don’t even want to be near me,” the filly stopped herself and blushed, “Oh, sorry, I didn’t meant to ramble on like that. It’s just you were a really fun dragon and friend to hang around with and….I really miss it. I miss you, Spike.”

“Sweetie Belle….” Spike began, “I didn’t know….I’m sorry. It’s not like that, honest, you and the other crusaders are some of the best friends I’ve ever had. I don’t know what I’d do without the three of ya.”

A small smile appeared on the white unicorn’s face, “Really?”

“Totally!” the dragon replied, “I guess I never really realized how much you fillies meant to me until I just thought about it.”

The smile on Sweetie Belle’s face grew larger as she moved closer to fling her front limbs around Spike, “Aww, thank you, Spike!”

Spike’s face erupted with a tint of deep red. Flustered and a little unsure of what to do, he set the gem on the cushion and wrapped his arms in return around Sweetie Belle, “Y-Yeah, of course, Sweetie Belle.”

The two broke the hug and looked at each other. Spike couldn’t shake an odd feeling off himself as Sweetie Belle stared at him with a very warm and pleasant smile. It bothered him a bit, and it caused him to start talking again.

“Hey, Sweetie Belle?”

“Mhm?” the filly tilted her head, still with the smile on her face.

“Uh….you do know I am really sorry for being a mule about all of that right?”

“Uh-huh,” she nodded.

“Well, I want you to have this gem as my way of saying sorry for all of that,” Spike looked away as he offered the gem to her with one of his claws.

Sweetie Belle tilted her head again, “Huh? Why?”

Spike was dumbfounded himself of why he was offering it to her as well. However, he tried his best to piece the words together, “Because….I missed you too….and it was really sad to see you like that….saying all of that stuff….and….I-I was wondering if you would be….m-my special s-somepony….”

A shocked smile of joy appeared on the unicorn’s face as she happily tackle-hugged the dragon on the couch. Spike, however, was fighting back slightly, rolling and trying to move out of her embrace. This only caused the two to fall onto the floor with Sweetie Belle still having her limbs wrapped around the dragon.

The trapped Spike spoke, gasping for breath, “So, was that a yes or were you just attacking me because you wanted to?”

“Both!” Sweetie Belle chimed.

Spike blushed again, this time with a smile. However, he did squirm and go red when Sweetie Belle kissed him on his cheek.

The little filly hugged her dragon tightly, “Yay, my very first special somepony!”

END

Change Your Mind (Spike X Scootaloo)

Change Your Mind

”We’re all the same/And love is blind./The sun is gone/Before it shines./And I said if the answer is no,/Can I change your mind?” -The Killers, “Change Your Mind”

Spike was running around the library, performing his daily tasks for Twilight. From organizing the books on the shelves to cleaning the rugs on the floor, he was quickly working to finish his chores. Once done, he went over to the purple unicorn on the couch and spoke to her.

“Chores are done, Twilight!” he claimed with a smile.

The mare looked up from her book, “Alright. So, you going to head out?”

“Yup! Going to go meet up with the Cutie Mark Crusaders,” the dragon explained.

Twilight smiled, “Okay, don’t stay out too late tonight, Spike. Also, behavior yourself around those girls.”

Spike lightly blushed, “Twilight, I’ll be fine!”

She softly chuckled, “I’m just teasing you, Spike.”

Still a bit sour, Spike made his way out of the library and out into late afternoon of Ponyville. Nervous, but determined, the little dragon waddled his way through Ponyville. He hadn’t exactly lied to Twilight, he was going to see the Cutie Mark Crusaders, but rather just one of them. He had asked Scootaloo to meet with him that day at the clubhouse. It was today that Spike planned to tell Scootaloo that he liked her very much. He felt that he could tell her and things would be fine, but after reading some of Twilight’s books about stallions and mares falling in love with each other, he did begin to feel hesitant. Nevertheless, Spike felt as if he could take on Equestria and tell the filly how he feels. As he drew closer to the clubhouse, butterflies began to emerge in his stomach. And Scootaloo was waiting there.

“H-Hey Scootaloo,” Spike spoke as he made his way up into the treehouse.

“Oh, hey there, Spike. What’s up?” the orange filly asked, smiling to her friend.

Spike was having trouble with his words, “Oh, uh….nothing really. Just wanted to….ya know….talk to ya and what not.”

“Sure, about what?”

The conversation was becoming harder for the dragon, “Oh, ya know, whatever….”

“Okay.”

“S-So….how are you?”

“I’m doing alright. Working on some awesome new tricks on my scooter. I’m going to be the best scooter rider this side of the Canterlot,” Scootaloo bragged, ”I even got tricks that will make Rainbow Dash jealous!”

“Haha, cool,” Spike commented. He was beginning to relax a bit more.

“Yeah, it’s cool! I don’t think you understand how awesome it will be!” Scootaloo continued.

Spike laughed, “I think I do.”

“So, what about you, shorty?” the little pegasus joked.

“Hey, I’m just as tall as you!” he bit back.

“Sure, if you count that spike thing on your head, cause I don’t,” the filly laughed. Spike sighed in defeat, which caused Scootaloo to laugh even more, So yeah, what about you? How’s Celestia and Luna treating our dear Spike the dragon?”

“Oh….well, things are alright with me. No complaints or nothing,” Spike started.

“So, why’d ya call me out here?” Scootaloo tilted her head.

“Uh….there’s something I wanted to say to you.”

“Hmm?”

Spike took a deep breath and then continued, “Scootaloo….I….uh….I kinda like you.”

The filly gave the dragon a look of bewilderment, “Like me? L-Like like me like me?”

“Y-Yeah, I like you like you,” Spike admitted. As he spoke those words, the butterflies that occupied his stomach completely vanished.

“O-Oh, okay….” Scootaloo was at a loss for words.

Silence stood between them for a while before Spike broken it, “D-Do you like me?”

“W-Well….” the orange filly started, “I obviously l-like you….but….”

“But?”

“I’m not sure if I really l-like you like you….”

“Oh….”

“It’s not you, Spike. Rather, I’m not sure how I feel yet….” Scootaloo explained, avoiding eye contact.

“It’s fine. I know it’s sudden and weird and junk,” the dragon said.

Scootaloo slightly nodded and looked off into the distance. The two youngsters stood in complete silence as a gentle breeze blew through the trees and rustled the leaves. Both felt awkward and unsure of what to do or say.

Finally, Spike broke the stillness, “So if the answer is no, can I change your mind?

“Huh?” Scootaloo finally looked toward the dragon.

“I mean, I guess the way I see it is that I might have a chance to persuade you to like more than just….like me,” Spike was trying make sure his words were understandable.

“I guess so,” the pegasus was following along.

“So, if I do have a chance, I wouldn’t mind if you let me know.”

“Uh….alright.”

“So, do I?”

Scootaloo thought for a moment and than gave a smirk to the purple and green reptile, “No.”

“What?”

“If you want to try and change my mind, you are going to have to try it on your own!” Scootaloo playfully laughed at the dragon.

“Wait, I don’t understand,” Spike was puzzled.

“You like me, right? Well, it’s up to you to prove why I should like you back!” the filly continued with her laughter.

The dragon paused for a moment and then asked, “How do I do that?”

Scootaloo smiled, “How should I know? That’s up to you! After all, they say we’re all the same and love is blind!” The little filly jumped down from the treehouse and began to trot away with a bounce in her step.

Spike looked down as Scootaloo began to leave. “Wha….hey, wait up!” he called out as he quickly climbed down from the clubhouse and rushed to catch up with her. As the two trotted off, Celestia’s sun began to lower itself beyond the western horizon.

Thank You Very Much

Thank You Very Much

“Thank you very much,/The pleasure is all mine./The presence of the innocence is so divine.” –Hey Ocean!, “Thank You Very Much”

I’m a doll. A stuffed, patchwork pony. Made with bits and pieces of fabric lying around Twilight Velvet’s sewing room, some fluff, and two buttons, my life as Smarty Pants came to existence. I’m not much, I know that for a fact. Yet I still live in the heart of my first owner, Twilight Sparkle.

I remember our first day together. Velvet was working at the sewing machine, stitching my body, putting the pieces in place. A purple unicorn filly looked up at her mother with stars in her eyes, curious of what her mother was doing. The unicorn told her daughter to be patient as she began to put fluff inside, bringing me to life. Closing me with one last pull of the thread, Twilight Velvet gave me to the filly. The wide-eyed unicorn stared at me, and I back at her. Full of joy and excitement, Twilight Sparkle hugged me closely. Wasting no time, she dragged me along to her room where we began to study.

Over the years, Twilight Sparkle gave me everything I could ask. She gave me much love and affection. She would bring me along everywhere she went. I was taken to the stores when they would go shopping. I would often go to her school, where I would be the topic of her show-and-tell activity more than once. She would often take me to the library with her, where she would give me my very own notebook and quill so I could do my homework while she did hers. Often times, we would hide inside a construction of books that she would make in her room, she affectionately called it her book fort. We spent late nights in that monument of books; looking at picture books, studying magic, or being whisked away into a world of fantasy. She loved books and studying. I never could understand why she did, but I didn’t care. As long as she was happy, I was happy.

In time, she grew up. It’s inevitable. Twilight Sparkle always was an excitable little filly, yearning to grow up to be a powerful unicorn. But as she grew, she left home. Called upon by the regal Princess Celestia, she literally jumped at the opportunity to learn at her hooves. Twilight Sparkle left home to learn from the princess, leaving her home behind, including me. I was happy for her, really I was. But those feelings of sadness and neglect outweighed my happiness for her. It was if she left me for bigger and better things.

Years past and I remained in her old bedroom, staring at the towering shelves of books that bordered the room. One fateful day, however, the Twilight’s door opened. The familiar purple unicorn entered her old room. I could tell she changed. She had grown up, a cutie mark upon her body, truly her mother’s daughter. Twilight Sparkle looked around her room, as if she was searching something. Her eyes locked on to me and she picked up me. She spoke to me, “There you are, Smarty Pants! I’ve been looking for you everywhere! We’re going to be heading to a new home!” I was puzzled, but she continued, “You know, I would never have gotten into Princess Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns if it wasn’t for you helping me study!” Twilight chuckled lightheartedly as she went on to add that we would be going to a new town at the request of Celestia; Ponyville.

In Ponyville, we all lived in a library, which was very fitting for Twilight Sparkle. She and her assistant dragon Spike seemed to have a natural talent for their new found occupation. Nevertheless, it seemed that the unicorn had forgotten me yet again. But I was fine. I was placed in a spot of honor on her desk. Every so often she would take me down and cuddle me, reminiscing of her childhood and our time together. She told me she valued our time together. I did as well.

One day, however, something odd happened. In an attempt to write a letter about friendship to the princess, Twilight showed me to three little fillies. I could tell they were not amused with me or my appearance, something I don’t hold against them. Twilight Sparkle then used her magic to make the three little ponies desire me. This quickly escalated to a large group a ponies fighting over me, a patchwork doll that is already falling apart. Princess Celeista was quick to intervene and dispel the magic. Quickly, all the ponies left me on the group, except for one. A red stallion seemed to be genuinely interest and desire for me. He was quick to take me back to his home. He cares for me. He loves me. It’s as if I’ve been given a second lease on life.

I might be just a fluff-filled doll. All I know is the life I’ve had with Twilight Sparkle and now with my new owner, who is called Big Mac by his family. But to that purple unicorn, I miss her. I love my new home, but to her, I owe everything. I owe her my memories, my happiness, and my life. I might never be able to tell her myself, but if I could just say one thing to Twilight, I want to say thank you for everything. She has given me a wonderful life that I wouldn’t ever trade for all of Equestria.

So Twilight Sparkle, thank you very much, the pleasure was all mine.

Snails (Applebloom X Snails)

Snails

"Snails see the benefits/The beauty in every inch/So why, why, oh why, oh why, oh, why/Are you quick to kiss?" -The Format, "Snails"

Applebloom wandered into the living room of her home. Raising her head up, she spoke, “Applejack?”

The orange pony looked up from her seat to see her little sister, “Howdy, Applebloom. What can ah do ya for?”

“Sis….ah know this sounds all weird an’ sudden, but….how do ya let somepony ta like ya?” the yellow filly looked up with her wide eyes.

Applejack raised an eyebrow, “Beg pardon?”

“Ah….ah wanna know how ta get somepony ta like ya back….” Applebloom’s face grew red as her mane as she looked down on to the wooden floor.

“Now why are ya askin’ this all of a sudden, sugarcube?”

Lightly moving her hoof around in different shapes on the floor, the younger sister answered, “Cause….Cause ah really like somepony….”

“Care ta tell me who?”

Applebloom hesitated, “Sn-Snails….”

“Snails, huh?” Applejack placed a hoof under her chin, “He is quite a nice colt, isn’t he?”

The filly didn’t reply. Instead, she continued avoiding eye contact with her sister as her cheeks grew more flushed. The yellow pony had known Snails ever since she could remember. The two had been classmates for years and had often played together. However, as time moved on, the orange unicorn had grew on Applebloom.

“Sugarcube, ya can’t make anypony like ya,” the blonde mare stated, “Ah know ya might like this colt, but ya gotta think ‘bout his feelings too.”

“B-But what if he doesn’t feel the same?” the tone of Applebloom’s voice was worried.

A little smirk appeared on the orange mare’s lips, “Well, that’s a ‘what if’. If ya never tell him how ya feel, ya’ll never know how he feels.”

“But….how do ah go ‘bout tellin’ him how ah feel?” Applebloom asked, finally looking up to Applejack.

Applejack was silent. Taking a deep breath, she finally answered her little sister, “Applebloom, that’s all up ta you and you alone. Ya gotta be yerself and listen ta what this is tryin’ ta say.” Applejack lightly tapped her sister’s chest, right over her heart.

Applebloom felt the hoof touch her, “Ah should listen ta what mah heart says?”

“It can never be wrong, sugarcube.”

A small smile appeared on the yellow filly’s face, “Thanks, Applejack.”

“That’s what family is for,” Applejack smiled back, “An’ speakin’ of family, it’s yer turn ta take Winona out fer her daily walk.”

“Wha? It’s mah turn? Ah thought it was Big Mac’s turn!” like a switch, Applebloom’s attention turned to an attempt to weasel out of her daily chore.

“Nope, today’s yer turn,” Applejack insisted.

Sighing in defeat, Applebloom left the living room to take care of her task. Quickly putting the leash on the family dog, the filly left the house.

Outside, Celestia’s sun was beginning to sink in the west while Luna’s moon began to rise in the east. With the leash in her mouth, Applebloom walked Winona down the dirt road towards Ponyville.

“Come on, Winona, let’s get this walk done with already,” Applebloom mumbled. To her, it felt as if the dog was walking her rather the other way around.

The brown dog, however, was becoming very antsy. She began trying to run forward, pulling the pony forward.

“Easy, girl, easy. Ya don’t havta race here, an’ ah don’t wanna,” the pony said through her teeth as she was being pulled along the path.

Winona didn’t take heed to her words. Instead, with a burst of energy, the dog took off, dragging Applebloom along.

Screaming and shouting, the pony was being hulled along the road by the dog. “Gaaahhh! Winona, stop! Heel!” Despite her calls, the dog continued to run. After being pulled for quite some distance, Applebloom let go of the leash. As Winona continued to run down the road, the pony slid to a stop.

Quickly picking herself up, Applebloom looked up to see the family dog run off. “Winona, get back here!” her words, however, failed to reach the dog. Giving a sour look at the direction her dog ran off in, the yellow pony dusted herself off. Taking in a breath of fresh air, she looked back up and started trotting down the path. As she came closer towards the town, she continued calling out for Winona, but to no luck. Her shouting, however, did attract another type of being.

“Applebloom?” a voice called out to her.

The yellow pony looked up to see an orange unicorn with a green mane trotting towards her, “Oh, howdy, Snails.”

“Are you okay? It looks like you got in a scuffle or something,” Snails looked at the pony worriedly as he stopped in front of her.

“Huh?” Applebloom looked down at herself to see that she was coated in dirt and had a bruise with a small amount of blood showing. Her mane was unkempt and her bow was also covered in dirt as well, “Oh, nah, ah didn’t get in a fight or nothin’. Mah dog Winona just got excited an’ decided to run off. She pulled me along in the dirt fer a bit before ah let go.”

“Oh my, I hope you’re okay,” the unicorn stated.

Applebloom chuckled slightly, “Heh, it’s nothin’ that ah ain’t used ta. Workin’ on the farm makes me quite a tough pony.”

“I believe that,” Snails nodded, “Just let me know if you need some help. I can take you to Nurse Redheart if I need to.”

The cheeks of the filly grew pink at his words, “Oh….heh, well….that’s really sweet of ya an’ all, Snails, but ah think ah’ll be fine.”

Snails smiled warmly as his face blushed slightly, “Well, don’t be shy about it if ya need something, Applebloom.”

The unicorn’s words caused Applebloom to blush even more. Nervously, she spoke, “Uh….Snails, can ah….uh….say somethin’?”

“Sure, what’s on your mind?”

Without fully thinking it through, Applebloom leaned her head closely to Snails. The two looked into each other’s eyes for a few long moments. Both of their faces grew to a red shade to match Applebloom’s mane. It seemed that both of the ponies had something to say, the words just waiting on each of their lips.

“A-Applebloom….?” the unicorn meekly spoke, “wh-what….”

Before he could finish, Applebloom closed the gap between them, pressing her lips to his. Both of the young ponies were shocked of the event that was unfolding. With her eyes tightly shut, Applebloom felt as if her entire face was on fire. As for Snails, his eyes were open in both surprise and uncertain of how to react to something of this sort. As the kiss ended, the two moved apart and looked at each other.

“Sh….shucks….” was all Snails said.

Applebloom looked down at the dirt, trying to hide her rosy red cheeks, “S-Sorry ‘bout that….i-it’s that ah’ve liked ya fer quite sometime….an’ well….mah sister said when it comes ta somethin’ like this, ya havta listen ta yer heart. Well, ah did….”

Snails was still have difficulty with speaking, “Well….gosh….I never knew you felt that way about me, Applebloom….”

Her face was still looking downward as she continued, “Ah’m sorry, Snails….didn’t really think ‘bout what ah was doin’….”

A smile appeared on the still visibly shaken Snails, “Truth be told, Applebloom, I’m quite keen on you as well.”

“Really?” the yellow pony raised her head up to look at the colt with optimism in her eyes.

“Yeah, I am. But….” the unicorn paused slightly.

Applebloom’s ears quickly fell down at the last word, “But?”

Hesitating, Snails continued, “It’s just….that you were….you know….were really forward with….this. You were just so quick to kiss, it seemed really….pushy.”

“Pushy?” Applebloom was puzzled.

“I know it sounds weird, but to me, I just like to enjoy every little thing that comes along. And I think that makes everything wonderful, seeing the beauty in everything,” the orange colt explained his reasoning and then his face turned red as he continued, “….or in this case, somepony special.”

The filly’s ears perked back up at the end of Snails’ sentence. Her face was a bright shade of red with an even brighter smile accompanying it.

Rubbing the back of his neck with one of his hooves, Snails added, “So….uh….Applebloom, would you like to be my special somepony?”

“Of course I would,” she replied, trying her best to not trip of her words.

“But on one condition.”

“Huh? What’s that?”

“Can we please take it slow?”

With a giggle, Applebloom nodded, “Okay, Snails, we’ll take it slow.”

As the two finished, both of their ears perked up as they heard barking. The ponies turned to see Winona running back to Applebloom. The two welcomed back the runaway dog as Celestia’s sun finally hid itself in the west, welcoming the night to Equestria.

END

Dead Leaves And The Dirty Ground (Big Mac X Rainbow Dash)

Dead Leaves And The Dirty Ground

“And I think I'm gonna stick around/For a while so you're not alone.” –The White Stripes, “Dead Leaves And The Dirty Ground”

Night had fallen across Equestria and the full moon had risen. While most of Ponyville was off celebrating the Apple family's victory over the Flim Flam Brothers and their cider-making machine, one lone red stallion was still on the farm. Big Macintosh was one the kind of pony that didn't rest until everything was done for the day, and after the challenge from the Flim Flam Brothers, a part of Sweet Apple Acres was quite a mess. He had to first dispose of the bad cider that was made. He then from there had to break down all of the barrels that held the cider down into nothing but planks of wood since they could not hold any cider without the awful taste of the bad cider. It was time consuming work and took him until late to finish the task. Even after that, he still had more work to do, cleaning up the mess made by the machine. Twigs, bad apples, and leaves were in a pile where the machine once stood and emptied the rejected cider material. He walked over to the barn to get a cart to move the waste. However, on his trot over, he saw a pony in the distance. While the moon was full, he had trouble identifying the pony. He then saw the figure take flight and soar is direction. Big Mac then noticed who it was by her multi-colored mane: it was his sister's friend Rainbow Dash.

"Hey, Big Mac," Dash called as she landed near the stallion.

"Evenin', Miss Rainbow Dash," he replied to the pegasus, "What brings ya 'round these parts?"

"Oh, heh, well, I was looking for ya," Rainbow Dash spoke nervously. She couldn't say that she was watching him from a distance for the past few minutes.

Big Mac raised an eyebrow, "Really?"

"Heh, yeah," Rainbow said, rubbing a hoof on the back of her neck, "I was lookin' for ya cause I wanted to tell ya that you were pretty awesome earlier today making that cider. You kicked major flank."

Big Mac smiled before continuing to get the cart, "Well, you were quite 'awesome' yerself, Miss Rainbow Dash." The word 'awesome' felt very alien to Big Mac. While he had no issue with saying it, he just thought it sounded weird for him.

Dash, who was behind him, blushed slightly at his words. She shook her head quickly and then soared to catch up to Big Mac, "Ya know, we make a pretty good team."

"That we do," he replied as he neared the barn.

Rainbow Dash stopped as Big Mac entered the barn then came out not two minutes later with a cart attached to him. He was quick to trot back to the field where only a few hours ago, all of Ponyville came to watch the Apple family competed against the Flim Flam Brothers. Rainbow Dash followed along and watched as Big Mac cleaned up the pile of waste. There was a strong silence that filled the night air. It was something Big Mac was used to, but drove Rainbow Dash crazy. However, it wasn't her who broke the silence.

"Um, Miss Rainbow Dash? Why are ya still here?" the red stallion asked.

This caught the light blue mare of guard, "Oh, uh….I was just thinking about all the cider that was made here earlier today. You guys did make quite a lot against those Jib Jab Brothers."

"Flim Flam," Big Mac corrected her, "and eeyup."

Rainbow Dash nodded, "Yeah, those losers. And I still can't believe Pinkie Pie got so much of this year's cider. Kinda stinks. Guess I gotta wait until next year." Rainbow's words were sorrowful. She looked down at the dead leaves on the ground that were being blown away by the gentle breeze that was picking up.

Big Mac paused for a moment before reattaching the cart to himself, "Follow me, Miss Rainbow Dash."

Rainbow Dash's ears perked at her name, "Huh? Uh, okay. And could ya stop calling me 'miss'? Ya sound like one of my grandpa's friends or somethin'."

Big Mac smiled at her comment as he trotted along. The silence between the returned. Big Mac took his time to going back to the barn and it drove Rainbow Dash crazy. She wasn't made for a leisure and slow pace, she was one for speed. However, she managed to keep herself from appearing too anxious and curious of what he was planning.

After what seemed forever in the eyes of Rainbow Dash, Big Mac arrived at the barn and unhooked himself from the cart, parking it carefully to the side. Big Mac then entered the barn again. A few minutes later, he emerged with a recognizable barrel on his back. Rainbow Dash knew that it was an apple cider barrel and her face lit up.

"Is….Is that a…." Dash couldn't finish her words.

"Eeyup, apple cider barrel," Big Mac finished her sentence.

"B-But I thought all of it was gone after today!"

"Eenope. Each member of the Apple family gets their own personal barrel every year, this here's mine," Big Mac explained to the pegasus

"Your personal barrel?" Dash was in amazement.

"Eeyup, and ah'd be quite honored if the pony who helped us work our hardest shared some of my personal cider with me."

Dash couldn't believe her ears, "I-I couldn't! I mean, this is your own personal stash!"

"Ah insist, Miss Rainbow Dash."

It was those words from Big Mac that Rainbow Dash agreed with a little pink in her cheeks, "Alright then, if ya insist."

Big Mac nodded and instructed her to get two mugs from inside while he began to make his way to a near by hill.

Rainbow Dash was quick with her errand and returned to Big Mac on the hill with the two mugs. The red stallion opened the barrel with Rainbow Dash right next to him. The sweet aroma filled both of their lungs. Rainbow Dash gave the mugs to Big Mac who in turned dipped them into the amber liquid. Giving on mug to Rainbow Dash, they knocked their glasses together.

"Here's to our friendship. From one awesome pony to another!" Rainbow Dash cheered.

"Eeyup!" Big Mac chimed in.

The two ponies drank cider under the moon and stars. Eventually, they finished the barrel, mostly because Rainbow Dash refused to stop drinking, saying it was the best tasting cider she ever had. Dash eventually fell asleep after drinking so much. Smiling, Big Mac put her on his back and took her to back to the barn. He laid Rainbow Dash on a pile of hay for her to sleep. Big Mac then fell asleep in the barn himself, watching over the light blue pegasus.

END

Rocking The Casbah: Trees Of Everfree

Rocking The Casbah: Trees Of Everfree

By Bass Cliff, Music Reviewer

Our town of Seaddle is known well known for it’s music scene. We are home to notable acts such as Jimi Hoofdrix, Neighvana, Death Cab For Filly, and Alicorn In Reins to name a few. So, when new local bands are formed, they have a lot to live up to. One local band did just that last weekend, amazing the packed venue of ponies at The Paramount Theatre.

This new band, calling themselves Trees Of Everfree, have came together about a year ago as a few friends from school who wished to turn their passion for music into something more. Borrowing sound from their favorite local musicians, they work together to create a sound that is completely unique. With this style, Trees Of Everfree have played numerous of small shows and gained a small but dedicated fan base. Consisting of their frontstallion Double Time, guitarist Sweep Pick, bassist Dolce, and drummer who goes by the name of ‘Mohawk’, Trees Of Everfree have gained a following due in large part to their amazing live shows.

Starting of their show with a cover, “Start Me Up” by The Rolling Steeds, Trees Of Everfree got the entire audience grooving to the classic rock from across the pond. They proceeded to play a number of their own songs. A good amount of the fans seemed to sing along with the band as they played. Their on-stage energy kept the audience active and wanting more. From one of their own songs, titled “The Magic of the Rain”, they beautifully transitioned into another cover, this time into “My Iron Lung” by Radioherd. Wasting no time, they quickly started up again with another cover, “Where Is My Mind?” by The Parasprties, giving a wonderful musical twist to the song.

Continuing with their set, they played a few more of their own songs and one more cover, “Stand By Me” by Bit E. King. To wrap up their evening performance, they played one last cover. Double Time stated that the song was dedicated to the Hoof Fighters, who he said was a musical inspiration to not only Trees Of Everfree, but all of Seaddle. They closed their set with a cover of “Times Like These” that would make the Hoof Fighters proud.

Trees Of Everfree seem to be promising as a local band. They not only have a lot of talent individually, but as a collective. Fusing their love of alternative rock and other styles of music with their energetic live performances, they will certainly have plenty of fans who will go out of their way to see them live. And after last night’s show, I admit right here in this review that I am a fan of Trees Of Everfree. See them live, you won’t be disappointed.