Nailah's Books of Speedwrites.by NailahChaptersPrompt: Wild WestPrompt: Without a TraceWalk the LineShe’d never flyWe didn't start the fireThe proposalPrompt: Wild WestThe Cursed Mare. The sun had risen to high noon., Iit was time. He let out an annoyed huff, as he strapped his belt to his side. He didn’t want it to come to this. Why? He flinched, feeling the sting of a tear drop running down his face, as he kicked a barrel on his way out. Big Mac was a strong and able- bodied pony. The town respected him;, they treated him as their lifeblood. To him, this place was more than just a home;, they were his family, and this...woman,. I if he could call her that, had just walked into his life and charmed him into falling madly in love with her, and now here he was about to face her head to head in a life or death duel. “I betcha asking how it came to this. It’s a long story. I’ll try to keep it short, I ain’t got time to dabble on for long. She’s waiting for me at high noon.” **** She was the prettiest mare he had ever laid eyes on. Dark blue coat, dark long flowing blue mane and tail. Her cutie mark, a moon. She was the essence of the night, and yet everything about her shined like a bright candle amidst the darkest of nights. “Hello there, stranger. Would you mind allowing me to stay here a night? I’m quite tired and could use the rest,.” she spoke, but he was far too distracted staring at her to say much. “Yep,.” was all he mustered. It was just the start. By morning light, she was gone, vanished without a trace, and yet still very much on his mind. He had to see her again. He had to find out her story. What brought a mare like her to a little town like his? Not that Apple Acres was a bad town., Tthere was good plow here, and the trees grew mighty and strong, and yet, she was much too regal to stop here. “Sis,.” he began, biting his lower lip,. “I ain’t gonnagoing let her just walk away like that. I’m going after her,” he stated, full of confidence, and stride. His sister embraced him tightly, kissing him on his cheek. “Stay safe, brother. Return to us. Apple Bloom and I won’t be able to handle things here without you for long.” “Don’t worry. I know what I’m doing.” he stated flat, as he packed his bags and began to search for the mysterious mare. The dessert was unforgiving to anyone who wasn’t prepared., Hhe had brought four canteens of water, strapped to his sides, his small satchel strapped to his back, and his gun fastened into it’s holster by his side. Big Mac wasn’t certain how far he traveled, or how long he had walked. The sands whipped against his face, and he felt the sting of the heat pouring down on him. He huffed as he panted, and continued on, until at long last, he found himself collapsing onto his flank, weary from the travel. “What are you doing here?” questioned a voice that he couldn’t see. He glanced all around, but all he saw was sand. “Go away if you know what is good for you. Stay and I’m afraid I’ll have to put an end to you,.” spoke the mysterious voice. He recognized her. “WAIT. I just wanna talk.” he stated, hoping she’d at least listen to reason. Surely, she was a strong mare, and didn’t want to be gawked on by others, but he just had to see her, to talk with her, just to know her name. “Talk? You want to talk? About what? There is nothing to discuss. You offered me shelter, and I went on my way. That is all it was, all it ever will be. Don’t be fooled into believing more. No pony would want to be around someone like me,” she admitted., Hhe could sense a harshness in her tone, a sting of a wound yet not healed. Perhaps he could do something for her. “I want to be around you. You’ are so majestic, beautiful as the stars. Please. Give me a chance. If I fail, then ya have every right to shoot me where I stand,” he stated, desperatelyion. He felt the sweat drops pouring down his face, hHis tongue hanging out from the heat of the sun. His whole body shook, not from fear, but from overheating. He panted heavily. She revealed herself to him. S, standing before him, was a tall alicorn, her regal form right in front of him. He was level with her legs as he sat there, and took a gulp of a breath, reaching for his canteen, and taking a swig of his water. “What’ is your name? I’m Big Mac,.” he introduced himself to her, still awonder, and a lost in the drift this pony had captivated him. I, it was almost like a curse. “Princess Luna is what they call me., Yyou may call me Luna,” she replied as she offered him a hoof to get up off the ground. Big Mac found himself stuttering. What should he say? He reckoned he shouldn’t keep saying she was beautiful and he was in awe of her. No… “Why wouldn’t ponies want ya around? I doain’t see no problem with ya,.” he questioned her. Luna sighed softly, tilting her head towards the night sky. “It isn’t of your concern. You have a family, do you not?” “Yep,.” replied Big Mac, blinking, and awaiting her to tell him why he should shun her. He saw no reason to hate her for sure. “I hurt the ponies. I turned the world to eternal night, out of jealousy. I was afraid no pony would love me as they did her,” admitted Luna as she somberly turned away. “WAIT!. Don’t go!. Your past doesn’t make ya bad, it just means ya made bad choices. Let me help you. Show you a better life. Come with me to my town, stay with me,” Big Mach shouted, not wanting to lose her, not when he had come so far. He lost track of where they were. “Fine. Have it your way. I will go with you.” replied Luna, nodding her head and using her magic to aid them in getting back to his town, before Big Mac fell unconscious. ******** “At that time I thought she was just a lost soul, adrift., I thought she needed me., Llittle did I know, she was using me. I felt betrayed when I realized it. When I realized all of the time we had spent together was nothing but a lie. It was all a LIE!. LUNA!” he shouted as he stormed out the door, as he narrowed his gaze, running his forehoof into the dirt over and over again. He could see her shadow as she began to descend to the ground. He bit his bottom lip. “WHY?” he asked her even now, he wanted to believe there was good in her, that this pony before him was some sort of magic. “I told you, I am a curse to ponies. You didn’t believe me. You have no one but yourself to blame. I am meant to suffer alone. It’s my punishment for my crimes. Now, it’s time you go to the wild beyonds to rest. I must do what is right. You must perish,” she spoke with utter devotion to her cause. It stung him, he didn’t want to hurt her, he loved her, the tears rolling down his eyes as they stood a good solid twenty feet apart. It was getting near., Tthe clock ticked., Iit was a quarter toof high noon,. That was when it began, when one of them would shoot first, and the other would die. Big Mac wasn’t ready. He knew in his heart he would never be ready to kill this mare, but he reckonedreckon he had too, for his family, for this town, for her. “Luna…... I wish I could’ve done more for you. I’m sorry this had to be,” Big Mac sniffled , as he reached for his gun as the clock struck noon. Without hesitation he went for his gun, he aimed it straight for her head, he had to kill her in one blow, or else he’d be a goner himself. He had to make this count, but his hooves were unsteady, he was shaking. A, as he pulled the trigger, letting the bullet fly. Luna felt calm, calculated, and sure of herself. She reached for her gun, pulling it out and unleashing the bullet at Big Mac. Both of them shot at each other at almost the exact same time. Luna didn’t want to kill him, she knew in her heart, she had loved him, and she knew he had loved her, but it was a love that could never be. It was her punishment for her crimes against the world that she would be forever alone. She smiled at him as she felt the bullet hit her, she made it look to him as if he had killed her, when in truth, she had never truly been there in the flesh. Back deep in the wild beyond of the wild west, an empty vast wasteland was where she called home. This was her home. It felt as empty as her heart had once been, but Big Mac had taught her to hope, hope that someone like her could be forgiven, that she could find a life worth living, and so she made it her vow to find a way to break this curse placed upon her and return to him. Return to the man that had stolen her heart. ***** Big Mac sobbed like a baby, he couldn’t even look at her. Laying there dead, he killed her. He knew it was necessary, but why? Why did it have to come to this? He loved her. Sulking he went over to where her body lay, to discover there was no body there. Confused, but strangely relieved, he couldn’t help but wonder; in her last moments did she teleport away so he wouldn’t have to watch her die?last moments. It was high noon when it happened and, Big Mac wouldn’t never be able to eat right for days after the tragic loss of the mare he had loved. The town would move on, time would pass, wounds would heal, but Big Mac made a promise to himself. He made a promise to never love again. He would protect his family, his town from the ones like Luna, and he would assure that his kin knew of the story of the cursed mare and the stallion. He felt a reassuring hoof on his shoulder, however he couldn’t help but to sob whenever he gazed upon the moon. He knew he’d always love her at high noon. Prompt: Without a TraceWithout a Trace The sunlight was shining in through the window of her cell. She barely managed to shield her eyes as she gazed up out of the window. It was a beautiful day. The birds were chirping, and she could feel the breeze through her pink mane. Yet, she couldn’t truly feel the serene feeling of nature. Not within these walls, not with these chains. Fluttershy knew he’d be coming back, he always came back to catch on his pet. She shivered in fear every time he got close. She knew what would happen, and yet each time she trembled before him. The might of his strength, how his claws caressed her fur, acting like he cared for her. She knew it was all a lie. He didn’t care for it. If he did, she would not be here, her hooves would not be shackled to the ground, she wouldn’t be kept locked in a tower where nopony else could see her. She let out a sigh as she heard his footsteps. Trying her best to keep composed, she took a deep breath as the Lord of Chaos entered. “Hello pet. I do hope you weren’t lonely while I was gone,” snickered Discord as he reached down to play with her mane, delicately running his claws along her fur. He let out a slow, soothing growl, as if he was pleased with her form, her beauty and that she belonged to him. “Hello...Master.” Fluttershy said, with a slight roll of her eyes. No matter how much she tried, she couldn’t forget who she was before him. She had been a free pony once. “Now, is that any way to greet me? I give you a home, free room and board, and all you can do is sigh at me? I expect far better of my pets. Do not make me remind you what I will do if you defy me,” Discord stated, preparing to snap his fingers and turn Equestria upside down into a world of pure chaos, ruled by him. “No, Master. Forgive me. It has been so long since I last saw you,” She whimpered, ears drooping to the sides of her face. “There’s my lovely girl. Good girl. Now… do tell me how have you been?” he asked so innocently. Fluttershy pulled at the shackles around her ankles. “I have been fine, everything is just so pleasant here with you.” She lied. She felt the bitter taste in her mouth, and immediately thought of Applejack. Discord could easily use his powers at any point to take over Equestria, and Fluttershy had hoped that Twilight could stop him, but ever since she had been… defeated by him, no one had seen any signs of her. It was like there was no longer a Twilight Sparkle, and without her, Fluttershy had to suffer in order to keep everyone else safe. It was a sacrifice she had to make, for the better of Equestria. “I get the feeling you are hiding something from me. Tell me, how do you really feel? Go ahead. Just this once, let it all out. I want to hear the suffering in your voice, the desperation in knowing that I won.” Discord smirked, using his magic to make himself a chair, lounging in it, sideways while sipping at his upside down chocolate milk. Fluttershy whimpered, and backed up to the wall, as she felt her rump hitting it. She bit her bottom lip. There was so much she could say. So many feelings, but nothing would get her anywhere. She knew he was playing with her. Wanting to hear her reactions. Her quietness was all the response he needed. She knew this. Discord was a chaotic creature, and if she didn’t feed him any fire, he would simply grow tired of her, and leave. That is what she wanted. She wanted him to leave. “Oh? What’s that? I can’t hear you. Speak louder.” He spoke lifting a clawed hand to his ear. “Oh yes? You don’t like those chains? You want to go outside? You think I’m a cruel and heartless monster? Oh my! Such language.” He smirked as he stood up, and pulled at the chains tied to the collar around her neck pulling her snout to snout, looking her straight in the eyes. “I don’t care if you feel uneasy around me. I suffered a thousand years in stone. I think you can suffer at least one hundred years in chains. I assure you I can be quite the monster, this is me being nice to you. Don’t play games with me, my pretty pony. You are nothing. You are my pet, and you will learn your place,” he hissed as he slapped her with his clawed hand. Fluttershy trembled as she shook and cowered before him. Whimpering as she felt the tears coming on, she just shook in fear. She heard him turning around, and heading out the door. “Oh and about that takeover of Equestria…” he whispered on his way out. “Did you really think I’d stop at simply making you my pet?” “But…” began Fluttershy in protest. “You have a cute butt that much is true, but Fluttershy, you forget your place. You are my pet, you will speak when I say.” he spoke as he glared at her, his red draconic eyes seeming to almost memorize her in that gaze. “Good girl. Now be good for me while I’m gone. I’ve got a Princess to meet.” he spoke with an evil cackle, and left Fluttershy for the day. Fluttershy whimpered as she heard the loud slamming of the door behind him. She turned around to look out the window. Staring out into the wide open world out of her reach, there was only one thought on her mind. “Where are you Twilight? Please...save us all.” Fluttershy said, feeling the stream of tears running down her face. Even as she shook with fear, even as all the odds seemed stacked against her. She knew in her heart there was hope, as long as there was friendship. She sobbed as she cowered in her tower prison. She couldn’t help but wonder what Discord was planning. She could only imagine whatever it was, wouldn’t be good, but there was nothing she could do. Was this all for nothing? Was there no meaning to her giving up her freedom to be the pet to the Lord of Chaos? She wouldn’t give up. Fluttershy stared out the window once again, pleading with the sky, looking up towards the clouds. “Please...Twilight. Please save us wherever you are. We need you.” she spoke. She didn’t know if she could hear her, or if Twilight was even alive, but the sliver of hope remained within her, after all she was the element of kindness, and nothing would keep her from hoping things would all work out, even if right now everything felt like it was falling to pieces, and she was but a pawn in the draconequus claws. Walk the LineA Rocky Relationship Lesbians “Dear Twilight, why ever did I agree to let you do this?” asked Rarity, her whole body shaking, biting onto her forehoof. Trying to do her best not to look down. Don’t do it. Don’t look down. She looked down. to the valley below her, she couldn’t even tell how far up they were. She visibly trembled, and let out a shriek as she attempted to cling to the wall of the mountain. “Rarity, relax. You’re taking this way too seriously. Rock climbing is actually a lot of fun! And very educational. To think ponies were able to carve this place into an area for us to treasure, long after they had passed on to the next life,” explained Twilight with a cheerful glee, she did lower herself down closer to Rarity, to ensure she was okay, before continuing to scale the mountain. “I’m afraid I’m about to pass on into the next life if you don’t get me off this mountain!” shrieked Rarity as she clung to Twilight’s body, and stared down at the empty valley very very, oh so very far beneath them. “Rarity… It’s okay to be nervous, but you can’t be afraid. This is why they gave us these harnesses. They cling to our fur, and allow us to scale the surface without fear. You won’t fall, and even if you did, I’d catch you. So come on, please… can we finish what we started?” pouted Twilight, as she gave Rarity her most adorable pout face, putting on the puppy dog eyes. Rarity looked into Twilight’s eyes as she spoke. She felt sweat pouring down her cheeks, as she took a gulp of a breath. She couldn’t, no she would never say no to Twilight. “Okay, Twilight. You win this time. I’ll keep going.” said Rarity, as she tried to look up the mountain, and saw more and more rocks built into this structure. They could at least have made a walkway for them. Why must everything be so difficult? Though, she did realize one thing, as Twilight climbed ahead of her, the view was worth the struggle. Rarity worked her hooves up the mountain, doing her best not to look down, and focused her eyes on the majestic beauty in front of her. Twilight scaled the wall with such a precision. Such grace, such strength, and sheer will. And the entire time, the mare was giggling like this was all just some game they were playing when one little mistake, and they could very well fall to their deaths! “Come on, Rarity. We’re almost to the top,” shouted Twilight as she looked down to see Rarity struggling to keep up, and hear how heavy her breathing was. She gently slid herself back down, and took Rarity’s hoof into her own. “Want to climb it together? Walk the line of this rope with me?” asked Twilight. “Of course darling. Anything for you.” Even if I don’t survive, at least she’s having fun. Rarity trembled as Twilight helped lift her to the top of the mountain. The view ahead of them was truly a sight for sore eyes. Rarity found herself tackling Twilight into a snuggle, and kissing her right on the lips without even thinking about what she had just done. “Um...Rarity? Are you okay?” asked Twilight as she had just felt Rarity’s lips against hers. She blushed like a school filly, as she savored the taste of Rarity’s lipstick. “Okay? Am I okay? NO! I am not okay. You just made me scale a mountain darling, and I love you, but sometimes you can be a bit...much to handle.” Rarity pouted. Twilight wrapped her forelegs around Rarity and hugged her tightly. “Oh I’m so sorry, I just thought it would be adventurous to climb a rock wall.” smiled Twilight as she just held Rarity, as they would then have their harnesses removed. “Darling, I love how daring you can be, but do you think next time we can do something less...heart pounding?” asked Rarity, as she fought to get the harness off. It was just a rock wall, not a real mountain, and yet every panting breath from her lips was proof enough it felt real. She’d never flyShe’d never fly. She’d accepted it, as much as she had hated it. The sky was beyond her reach. Scootaloo stared up at the clouds as they lazed throughout the skies. She sighed heavily, as she wiped her forehoof against the dirt in frustration, and the bitterness of something out of her control. Wings too small. I’ll never be as good as her. Never will I be Rainbow Dash. But...it’s okay. I’m not Rainbow Dash, I could never hope to be her. She’s amazing, and I’m not. And like this is hard for me to admit, but sometimes I feel I’ve failed her. Like I haven’t lived up to her expectations. Do you understand why it’s so hard?” she asked no pony. The wind whipped by, and made her mane flow down over her eyes a bit. She breathed air upwards to get it back into place. Scootaloo lifted herself off the ground. She couldn’t dwindle here any longer. She had to move on. She had to press forward. She had to find something within herself that was worthy of showing to her big sister. Both Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle had talents of their own. But the only thing she was good at was riding her scooter. She glanced at the purple scooter as it laid against the grass where she had placed it. She stood it up. She hopped onto her scooter and began riding away from Ponyville. Away from reminders of her failings. She had to find something. She didn’t even know what that something was. But it was out there waiting for her to find it. ***********8 She lost track of how long she had ridden, or how far she had come, but she panted heavily as she laid her scooter to the side, as she saw a lone cabin in the midst of the wooded forest. Not the Everfree forest, but another forest, which had no name. Scootaloo reached her forehoof up and rapped on the door three times, and stood back waiting for an answer. Eventually, the door opened. There looking down at her, was a fellow pegasus pony, but Scootaloo couldn’t help but notice her wings were bandaged up to her sides. Why? Was she hurt? Who was she? This mare whom she didn’t know, had long curly crismon locks that reminded her of blood. The pony’s fur was a soft and sandy brown. Her cutie mark was of a pair of wings, the one wing looked almost like it was darker than the other. Why? “It seems my vision was true. A pony would come to my door in need. What do they call you young one?” asked the strange mare, as she tilted her head to the side. “Scootaloo, but you can just call me Scoots. And um...I actually didn’t come for help, I’m just tired and sore from traveling so much on my scooter, and I just need a place to lay my head.” “Ah, and I suppose the trees that cover you as you trekked here weren’t good enough? Do you not like the earth and the things it has clearly provided?” asked the mare. “Well. Yeah. But...like a bed would be nice.” replied Scootaloo, a bit frantic. “Hmm...A bed. Very well, you may come in and sleep for the night. But if you don’t wish for my help, then at least heed my advice. Don’t travel at night. This place is known for strange creatures coming out at the darkest of hours to nap little fillies like you. Ones so young, and so naive, that they would snatch you up before you could even blink an eye.” explained the mare. Scootaloo, took a moment to take a gulp of a breath. This mare, she wasn’t like anything or anyone she had ever heard of. And she wasn’t really sure she liked it. But well she was only going to be here a night right? It would be fine...She followed the mare to a spare room, where she saw a bed already made up, as the mare whispered to her a good night, before closing the door behind her. Scootaloo took the chance to just breathe. Before realizing, she left her scooter outside. “Man I’m so stupid.” she said as she went back outside to get her scooter. It was dark, she could hear the eeriness of the forest, as the wind made the leaves make noises that made her jump two inches into the air, letting out a shrill shriek, before blushing and coughing into her hoof. We didn't start the fireIt happened so suddenly, so quickly, she barely had time to blink. The flames engulfed the entire building of Sugarcube corner. Pinkie Pie made a mad dash upstairs to get the twins and hurried outside. Panting heavily as she handed them off to the closest pony she could, Big Mac was there doing some errands for the farm. “Here, get them to safety.” she shouted as she ran back inside. “Pinkie Pie what are you doing?” asked Big Mac, tugging at her tail to keep her from going back into the fire. “Gummy’s still in there! I can’t leave him behind. I’d never forgive myself.” whined Pinkie Pie as she tugged herself forward, as Big Mac pulled back, the tug of war lasting a few seconds before Pinkie Pie managed to get herself free, and dash back into Sugarcube corner. Big Mac sighed heavily, as he charged in after her. Crazy, this was crazy. They could both die from this, but he wasn’t going to just leave her on her own. It wasn’t his nature. Pinkie Pie found Gummy with a mixing spoon in his mouth. She grabbed him, and put him on her head, as she turned to head back outside, as she coughed, and began gagging. The fumes of the fire were getting intense even for her. She wasn’t sure she’d make it back out. She used the last of her strength to push herself forward, and towards the exit of Sugarcube corner. Big Mac found her there collapsed on the floor as the smoke had made her unsteady and she found herself on the ground. Big Mac without hesitation picked up Pinkie Pie, throwing her onto his strong back, and dashing outside as fast as he could. Already outside, the residents of Ponyville had called for the fire ponies to put out the remaining flames. Pinkie Pie opened her eyelids, coughing and struggling to form a sentence. “Gummy...is he okay?” she asked as she reached up, and Gummy bit onto her hoof to let her know he was okay. Pinkie sighed heavily, as she felt dazed, and confused. “I know I didn’t start a fire. We didn’t start a fire, Gummy. What happened?” Pinkie asked her alligator. Gummy’s eyes got big as he tilted his head downwards so his eyes were looking straight into hers, almost like he was speaking to her in some foriegn language. Big Mac carefully put Pinkie Pie down back onto the ground far away from the now burnt remains of what used to be her home. He looked to Pinkie Pie, as she held onto her alligator, clinging to him tightly. “Oh Gummy, what are we going to do?” asked Pinkie Pie. Big Mac put a strong hoof onto her shoulder. “Pinkie Pie, I know this must be hard on ya, but ya’ll can stay with us at the farm for now.” offered Big Mac. After all they were sorta family? He could never quite figure it out. But it was the right thing to do, he couldn’t just let her wander the streets or go live with some random ponies she might notknow be as comfortable with. “Oh, Big Mac you are the sweetest stallion I ever knew!” she sobbed into his yolk he wore around. Big Mac stood there silently, as he gently reached a forehoof out, and pulled Pinkie Pie close. The twins were by his hooves. And every pony was safe. It was a good thing the cakes weren’t home. The worst part of the whole thing was now Sugarcube corner was reduced to a pile of ashes and cinders. Big Mac couldn’t imagine what would happen to him and his sisters if the barn burnt down. “We didn’t start a fire. We swear. Right Gummy?” asked Pinkie Pie as she sobbed, and clung onto Big Mac. She just kept repeating it over and over. “No, you didn’t start this, I know it Pinkie. You’d never do something so...terrible. But for now let’s get ya somewhere safe and…” he paused, he was going to say warm and realized that wasn’t the right word choice. This is why he preferred to keep things simple or not say anything at all. Right now, Pinkie Pie needed him to be her source of strength, until she calmed down. Big Mac went over and grabbed his wagon, seating the twins in it, and then putting Pinkie Pie into it as well. “Big Mac…” began Pinkie Pie. “Do you think we can rebuild it?” “Yep.” he lied. There wasn’t anyway to salvage what was there. They’d have to make a new Sugarcube corner, but right now Pinkie Pie needed to hear some good news. “Oh and Applejack made some pies today.” “Oh I do love me some pie. So warm and fluffy and full of flavor.” Pinkie Pie stated, licking her lips, as for the brief moment she forgot about what had just occurred. Big Mac trotted them to Apple Acres, Applejack was outside with Apple Bloom, the two of them were smashing blueberries together. Applejack saw the expression on Big Mac’s face as he pulled the wagon to a stop, and immediately she told Apple Bloom to get the twins inside after cleaning herself up. Once that was done, she went over to Pinkie Pie, who immediately clung to her like glue. “Oh AJ it’s terrible, horrible. The worst thing ever!” she flailed as she tried to explain about the fire, Sugarcube corner, and how Big Mac was there to save her when she couldn’t get out. “Woah, slow down Sugarcube. I reckon ya have been through a lot, so just breathe okay?” Applejack said, as she held both her front forelegs around Pinkie Pie, as she just stiffened into her golden orange coat, sniffening. “Big Mac, can you tell me anything about this?” asked Applejack. “Nope.” replied Big Mac. He didn’t know who started the fire, or how it had happened. All he knew was Pinkie Pie didn’t start the fire. She’d never do such a thing. Pinkie Pie had done all she could to keep her loved ones safe, risking her own life to ensure even Gummy got out safely. “She needs us.” spoke Big Mac. “I know she does, and we’ll be here for her. We’re family, isn’t that right?” she smiled gently, as she rubbed up and down Pinkie’s mane, to try to soothe her. “Family. Yeah...we’re family. And I can stay here until Sugarcube corner is rebuilt. Oh AJ it was awful. Just horrible. I can’t even think of anything good to say!” “I can.” Big Mac spoke up, as he nuzzled Pinkie Pie. “You’re safe, they are all safe, thanks to you. You saved them Pinkie Pie.” “I couldn’t have done it if you hadn’t been there to save me.” Pinkie Pie sobbed, holding onto him. “It’s okay. Sometimes ya’ll need a little help. You were brave and strong as an oak.” spoke Applejack, as the two of them both embraced Pinkie Pie, and for the first time all day, she felt the first genuine smile forming on her lips. The proposalIt was a beautiful day in Ponyville. The birds were chirping and everything felt peaceful. She panted as she galloped to the entrance to Canterlot Boutique. She felt her cheeks flushing a deep dark cherry red, as she fidgeted in place. “Oh please be home. I don’t know what to do. Oh Celestia, I need Rarity to help me.” she spoke out loud, not realizing she was talking to herself. Rarity opened the door to see Fluttershy at her doorstep. “Fluttershy? What on earth, you look rather...panicked. Is everything alright? Does Twilight need us?” asked Rarity as she studied Fluttershy’s body language carefully. Fluttershy hurried to push Rarity inside and shut the door behind them, she quickly covered Rarity’s mouth as she was about to speak. “Ssssshhh! Some pony or creature might hear you. Or worse. Rarity...we’re friends right?” asked Fluttershy, fidgeting and playing with her pink locks, nervously she twitched. “Of course we’re friends. That is a silly question and I cannot help but wonder what on earth has gotten you so riddled up like this. It’s not like you.” began Rarity. “It’s Discord.” began Fluttershy, her blush getting darker, as she tried to shield her face with her eyes. “Him again. I should have figured. What has he done this time?” asked Rarity as her cheeks puffed up, holding out her forehooves and pretending to jab at the air. “I swear if that draconequus thinks he can hurt you, he has another thing coming.” “Rarity...listen. He didn’t hurt me. He didn’t even touch me. It’s...well um…” she hesitated and then just burst out, “He asked me to marry him!” “Oh…” Rarity blinked, and then chuckled. “Oh Fluttershy, that is just adorable. To think he’d actually ask you. Well…tell me everything.” “Right. Well when I got up this morning, I went out to check on my animals, and make sure the Sanctuary was doing well, and he was there waiting for me. He had this look on his face. I think he was grinning. Ofh course I approached him, and gave him a hug. I then asked him how he was doing, and well then he said he was doing great, but it would be even better if I was with him. Then I blushed darkly, and he turned my face towards him, he cupped my cheeks and well...he asked me to marry him! Oh Rarity, what should I do?” “Well, darling the first thing you need to answer is do you love Discord? Can you see yourself with him for the rest of your lives.” began Rarity. “After all, ifall if I was asked for my hoof in marriage, I would want to love the pony or creature that was asking me. Not that I’ve ever been asked! I think most stallions are afraid of me or something. Not that it matters. I’m here to help you after all.” Rarity chuckled, even as she felt a bit of guilt. She felt this unease within herself. To think Fluttershy might be getting married and she had yet to find that perfect stallion of her dreams. Maybe he just didn’t exist. Oh well, it’s not like she needed romance in her life. She was more than happy for Fluttershy, but only if she would truly be happy living her life with someone as chaotic as Discord. Rarity didn’t know what she saw in him, but she wasn’t going to judge Fluttershy for liking him either. “Well, I do love him, I always have. It’s just I never thought I’d ever get asked this was all. I sort of panicked and came here, hoping you’d have some sort of advice.” “If you love him, then tell him that. Tell him to sweep you off your hooves and take you over that magical rainbow, they call love. Or at least those silly fairy tales that Sweetie Belle reads.” Rarity chuckled, coughing into her hoof, not wanting to admit she read those fairy tales herself, and would want nothing more than to be the Princess that got rescued by the fair and charming prince, only to be wed to him by the end of the tale. But that was just a fairy tale, and this was well real life, and a real problem at hoof. She had to assure Fluttershy that everything would be okay. “Oh...yeah. I probably shouldn’t have ran off like I did. I hope he didn’t take that as a no.” Fluttershy blushed, and hurried back out the door. “Thanks Rarity!” ************8 Discord kicked at the flowers on the ground, and grumbled to himself. Muttering under his breath. “Why’d she run off? What did I say wrong? I’ve been practicing this proposal for months! Oh...if she says no what will I do? No, I can’t think like this. Knowing Fluttershy she just got flustered. Yeah, that’s it. She totally didn’t ditch me because she doesn’t want to hurt me…” “Discord!”
Prompt: Wild WestThe Cursed Mare. The sun had risen to high noon., Iit was time. He let out an annoyed huff, as he strapped his belt to his side. He didn’t want it to come to this. Why? He flinched, feeling the sting of a tear drop running down his face, as he kicked a barrel on his way out. Big Mac was a strong and able- bodied pony. The town respected him;, they treated him as their lifeblood. To him, this place was more than just a home;, they were his family, and this...woman,. I if he could call her that, had just walked into his life and charmed him into falling madly in love with her, and now here he was about to face her head to head in a life or death duel. “I betcha asking how it came to this. It’s a long story. I’ll try to keep it short, I ain’t got time to dabble on for long. She’s waiting for me at high noon.” **** She was the prettiest mare he had ever laid eyes on. Dark blue coat, dark long flowing blue mane and tail. Her cutie mark, a moon. She was the essence of the night, and yet everything about her shined like a bright candle amidst the darkest of nights. “Hello there, stranger. Would you mind allowing me to stay here a night? I’m quite tired and could use the rest,.” she spoke, but he was far too distracted staring at her to say much. “Yep,.” was all he mustered. It was just the start. By morning light, she was gone, vanished without a trace, and yet still very much on his mind. He had to see her again. He had to find out her story. What brought a mare like her to a little town like his? Not that Apple Acres was a bad town., Tthere was good plow here, and the trees grew mighty and strong, and yet, she was much too regal to stop here. “Sis,.” he began, biting his lower lip,. “I ain’t gonnagoing let her just walk away like that. I’m going after her,” he stated, full of confidence, and stride. His sister embraced him tightly, kissing him on his cheek. “Stay safe, brother. Return to us. Apple Bloom and I won’t be able to handle things here without you for long.” “Don’t worry. I know what I’m doing.” he stated flat, as he packed his bags and began to search for the mysterious mare. The dessert was unforgiving to anyone who wasn’t prepared., Hhe had brought four canteens of water, strapped to his sides, his small satchel strapped to his back, and his gun fastened into it’s holster by his side. Big Mac wasn’t certain how far he traveled, or how long he had walked. The sands whipped against his face, and he felt the sting of the heat pouring down on him. He huffed as he panted, and continued on, until at long last, he found himself collapsing onto his flank, weary from the travel. “What are you doing here?” questioned a voice that he couldn’t see. He glanced all around, but all he saw was sand. “Go away if you know what is good for you. Stay and I’m afraid I’ll have to put an end to you,.” spoke the mysterious voice. He recognized her. “WAIT. I just wanna talk.” he stated, hoping she’d at least listen to reason. Surely, she was a strong mare, and didn’t want to be gawked on by others, but he just had to see her, to talk with her, just to know her name. “Talk? You want to talk? About what? There is nothing to discuss. You offered me shelter, and I went on my way. That is all it was, all it ever will be. Don’t be fooled into believing more. No pony would want to be around someone like me,” she admitted., Hhe could sense a harshness in her tone, a sting of a wound yet not healed. Perhaps he could do something for her. “I want to be around you. You’ are so majestic, beautiful as the stars. Please. Give me a chance. If I fail, then ya have every right to shoot me where I stand,” he stated, desperatelyion. He felt the sweat drops pouring down his face, hHis tongue hanging out from the heat of the sun. His whole body shook, not from fear, but from overheating. He panted heavily. She revealed herself to him. S, standing before him, was a tall alicorn, her regal form right in front of him. He was level with her legs as he sat there, and took a gulp of a breath, reaching for his canteen, and taking a swig of his water. “What’ is your name? I’m Big Mac,.” he introduced himself to her, still awonder, and a lost in the drift this pony had captivated him. I, it was almost like a curse. “Princess Luna is what they call me., Yyou may call me Luna,” she replied as she offered him a hoof to get up off the ground. Big Mac found himself stuttering. What should he say? He reckoned he shouldn’t keep saying she was beautiful and he was in awe of her. No… “Why wouldn’t ponies want ya around? I doain’t see no problem with ya,.” he questioned her. Luna sighed softly, tilting her head towards the night sky. “It isn’t of your concern. You have a family, do you not?” “Yep,.” replied Big Mac, blinking, and awaiting her to tell him why he should shun her. He saw no reason to hate her for sure. “I hurt the ponies. I turned the world to eternal night, out of jealousy. I was afraid no pony would love me as they did her,” admitted Luna as she somberly turned away. “WAIT!. Don’t go!. Your past doesn’t make ya bad, it just means ya made bad choices. Let me help you. Show you a better life. Come with me to my town, stay with me,” Big Mach shouted, not wanting to lose her, not when he had come so far. He lost track of where they were. “Fine. Have it your way. I will go with you.” replied Luna, nodding her head and using her magic to aid them in getting back to his town, before Big Mac fell unconscious. ******** “At that time I thought she was just a lost soul, adrift., I thought she needed me., Llittle did I know, she was using me. I felt betrayed when I realized it. When I realized all of the time we had spent together was nothing but a lie. It was all a LIE!. LUNA!” he shouted as he stormed out the door, as he narrowed his gaze, running his forehoof into the dirt over and over again. He could see her shadow as she began to descend to the ground. He bit his bottom lip. “WHY?” he asked her even now, he wanted to believe there was good in her, that this pony before him was some sort of magic. “I told you, I am a curse to ponies. You didn’t believe me. You have no one but yourself to blame. I am meant to suffer alone. It’s my punishment for my crimes. Now, it’s time you go to the wild beyonds to rest. I must do what is right. You must perish,” she spoke with utter devotion to her cause. It stung him, he didn’t want to hurt her, he loved her, the tears rolling down his eyes as they stood a good solid twenty feet apart. It was getting near., Tthe clock ticked., Iit was a quarter toof high noon,. That was when it began, when one of them would shoot first, and the other would die. Big Mac wasn’t ready. He knew in his heart he would never be ready to kill this mare, but he reckonedreckon he had too, for his family, for this town, for her. “Luna…... I wish I could’ve done more for you. I’m sorry this had to be,” Big Mac sniffled , as he reached for his gun as the clock struck noon. Without hesitation he went for his gun, he aimed it straight for her head, he had to kill her in one blow, or else he’d be a goner himself. He had to make this count, but his hooves were unsteady, he was shaking. A, as he pulled the trigger, letting the bullet fly. Luna felt calm, calculated, and sure of herself. She reached for her gun, pulling it out and unleashing the bullet at Big Mac. Both of them shot at each other at almost the exact same time. Luna didn’t want to kill him, she knew in her heart, she had loved him, and she knew he had loved her, but it was a love that could never be. It was her punishment for her crimes against the world that she would be forever alone. She smiled at him as she felt the bullet hit her, she made it look to him as if he had killed her, when in truth, she had never truly been there in the flesh. Back deep in the wild beyond of the wild west, an empty vast wasteland was where she called home. This was her home. It felt as empty as her heart had once been, but Big Mac had taught her to hope, hope that someone like her could be forgiven, that she could find a life worth living, and so she made it her vow to find a way to break this curse placed upon her and return to him. Return to the man that had stolen her heart. ***** Big Mac sobbed like a baby, he couldn’t even look at her. Laying there dead, he killed her. He knew it was necessary, but why? Why did it have to come to this? He loved her. Sulking he went over to where her body lay, to discover there was no body there. Confused, but strangely relieved, he couldn’t help but wonder; in her last moments did she teleport away so he wouldn’t have to watch her die?last moments. It was high noon when it happened and, Big Mac wouldn’t never be able to eat right for days after the tragic loss of the mare he had loved. The town would move on, time would pass, wounds would heal, but Big Mac made a promise to himself. He made a promise to never love again. He would protect his family, his town from the ones like Luna, and he would assure that his kin knew of the story of the cursed mare and the stallion. He felt a reassuring hoof on his shoulder, however he couldn’t help but to sob whenever he gazed upon the moon. He knew he’d always love her at high noon.
Prompt: Without a TraceWithout a Trace The sunlight was shining in through the window of her cell. She barely managed to shield her eyes as she gazed up out of the window. It was a beautiful day. The birds were chirping, and she could feel the breeze through her pink mane. Yet, she couldn’t truly feel the serene feeling of nature. Not within these walls, not with these chains. Fluttershy knew he’d be coming back, he always came back to catch on his pet. She shivered in fear every time he got close. She knew what would happen, and yet each time she trembled before him. The might of his strength, how his claws caressed her fur, acting like he cared for her. She knew it was all a lie. He didn’t care for it. If he did, she would not be here, her hooves would not be shackled to the ground, she wouldn’t be kept locked in a tower where nopony else could see her. She let out a sigh as she heard his footsteps. Trying her best to keep composed, she took a deep breath as the Lord of Chaos entered. “Hello pet. I do hope you weren’t lonely while I was gone,” snickered Discord as he reached down to play with her mane, delicately running his claws along her fur. He let out a slow, soothing growl, as if he was pleased with her form, her beauty and that she belonged to him. “Hello...Master.” Fluttershy said, with a slight roll of her eyes. No matter how much she tried, she couldn’t forget who she was before him. She had been a free pony once. “Now, is that any way to greet me? I give you a home, free room and board, and all you can do is sigh at me? I expect far better of my pets. Do not make me remind you what I will do if you defy me,” Discord stated, preparing to snap his fingers and turn Equestria upside down into a world of pure chaos, ruled by him. “No, Master. Forgive me. It has been so long since I last saw you,” She whimpered, ears drooping to the sides of her face. “There’s my lovely girl. Good girl. Now… do tell me how have you been?” he asked so innocently. Fluttershy pulled at the shackles around her ankles. “I have been fine, everything is just so pleasant here with you.” She lied. She felt the bitter taste in her mouth, and immediately thought of Applejack. Discord could easily use his powers at any point to take over Equestria, and Fluttershy had hoped that Twilight could stop him, but ever since she had been… defeated by him, no one had seen any signs of her. It was like there was no longer a Twilight Sparkle, and without her, Fluttershy had to suffer in order to keep everyone else safe. It was a sacrifice she had to make, for the better of Equestria. “I get the feeling you are hiding something from me. Tell me, how do you really feel? Go ahead. Just this once, let it all out. I want to hear the suffering in your voice, the desperation in knowing that I won.” Discord smirked, using his magic to make himself a chair, lounging in it, sideways while sipping at his upside down chocolate milk. Fluttershy whimpered, and backed up to the wall, as she felt her rump hitting it. She bit her bottom lip. There was so much she could say. So many feelings, but nothing would get her anywhere. She knew he was playing with her. Wanting to hear her reactions. Her quietness was all the response he needed. She knew this. Discord was a chaotic creature, and if she didn’t feed him any fire, he would simply grow tired of her, and leave. That is what she wanted. She wanted him to leave. “Oh? What’s that? I can’t hear you. Speak louder.” He spoke lifting a clawed hand to his ear. “Oh yes? You don’t like those chains? You want to go outside? You think I’m a cruel and heartless monster? Oh my! Such language.” He smirked as he stood up, and pulled at the chains tied to the collar around her neck pulling her snout to snout, looking her straight in the eyes. “I don’t care if you feel uneasy around me. I suffered a thousand years in stone. I think you can suffer at least one hundred years in chains. I assure you I can be quite the monster, this is me being nice to you. Don’t play games with me, my pretty pony. You are nothing. You are my pet, and you will learn your place,” he hissed as he slapped her with his clawed hand. Fluttershy trembled as she shook and cowered before him. Whimpering as she felt the tears coming on, she just shook in fear. She heard him turning around, and heading out the door. “Oh and about that takeover of Equestria…” he whispered on his way out. “Did you really think I’d stop at simply making you my pet?” “But…” began Fluttershy in protest. “You have a cute butt that much is true, but Fluttershy, you forget your place. You are my pet, you will speak when I say.” he spoke as he glared at her, his red draconic eyes seeming to almost memorize her in that gaze. “Good girl. Now be good for me while I’m gone. I’ve got a Princess to meet.” he spoke with an evil cackle, and left Fluttershy for the day. Fluttershy whimpered as she heard the loud slamming of the door behind him. She turned around to look out the window. Staring out into the wide open world out of her reach, there was only one thought on her mind. “Where are you Twilight? Please...save us all.” Fluttershy said, feeling the stream of tears running down her face. Even as she shook with fear, even as all the odds seemed stacked against her. She knew in her heart there was hope, as long as there was friendship. She sobbed as she cowered in her tower prison. She couldn’t help but wonder what Discord was planning. She could only imagine whatever it was, wouldn’t be good, but there was nothing she could do. Was this all for nothing? Was there no meaning to her giving up her freedom to be the pet to the Lord of Chaos? She wouldn’t give up. Fluttershy stared out the window once again, pleading with the sky, looking up towards the clouds. “Please...Twilight. Please save us wherever you are. We need you.” she spoke. She didn’t know if she could hear her, or if Twilight was even alive, but the sliver of hope remained within her, after all she was the element of kindness, and nothing would keep her from hoping things would all work out, even if right now everything felt like it was falling to pieces, and she was but a pawn in the draconequus claws.
Walk the LineA Rocky Relationship Lesbians “Dear Twilight, why ever did I agree to let you do this?” asked Rarity, her whole body shaking, biting onto her forehoof. Trying to do her best not to look down. Don’t do it. Don’t look down. She looked down. to the valley below her, she couldn’t even tell how far up they were. She visibly trembled, and let out a shriek as she attempted to cling to the wall of the mountain. “Rarity, relax. You’re taking this way too seriously. Rock climbing is actually a lot of fun! And very educational. To think ponies were able to carve this place into an area for us to treasure, long after they had passed on to the next life,” explained Twilight with a cheerful glee, she did lower herself down closer to Rarity, to ensure she was okay, before continuing to scale the mountain. “I’m afraid I’m about to pass on into the next life if you don’t get me off this mountain!” shrieked Rarity as she clung to Twilight’s body, and stared down at the empty valley very very, oh so very far beneath them. “Rarity… It’s okay to be nervous, but you can’t be afraid. This is why they gave us these harnesses. They cling to our fur, and allow us to scale the surface without fear. You won’t fall, and even if you did, I’d catch you. So come on, please… can we finish what we started?” pouted Twilight, as she gave Rarity her most adorable pout face, putting on the puppy dog eyes. Rarity looked into Twilight’s eyes as she spoke. She felt sweat pouring down her cheeks, as she took a gulp of a breath. She couldn’t, no she would never say no to Twilight. “Okay, Twilight. You win this time. I’ll keep going.” said Rarity, as she tried to look up the mountain, and saw more and more rocks built into this structure. They could at least have made a walkway for them. Why must everything be so difficult? Though, she did realize one thing, as Twilight climbed ahead of her, the view was worth the struggle. Rarity worked her hooves up the mountain, doing her best not to look down, and focused her eyes on the majestic beauty in front of her. Twilight scaled the wall with such a precision. Such grace, such strength, and sheer will. And the entire time, the mare was giggling like this was all just some game they were playing when one little mistake, and they could very well fall to their deaths! “Come on, Rarity. We’re almost to the top,” shouted Twilight as she looked down to see Rarity struggling to keep up, and hear how heavy her breathing was. She gently slid herself back down, and took Rarity’s hoof into her own. “Want to climb it together? Walk the line of this rope with me?” asked Twilight. “Of course darling. Anything for you.” Even if I don’t survive, at least she’s having fun. Rarity trembled as Twilight helped lift her to the top of the mountain. The view ahead of them was truly a sight for sore eyes. Rarity found herself tackling Twilight into a snuggle, and kissing her right on the lips without even thinking about what she had just done. “Um...Rarity? Are you okay?” asked Twilight as she had just felt Rarity’s lips against hers. She blushed like a school filly, as she savored the taste of Rarity’s lipstick. “Okay? Am I okay? NO! I am not okay. You just made me scale a mountain darling, and I love you, but sometimes you can be a bit...much to handle.” Rarity pouted. Twilight wrapped her forelegs around Rarity and hugged her tightly. “Oh I’m so sorry, I just thought it would be adventurous to climb a rock wall.” smiled Twilight as she just held Rarity, as they would then have their harnesses removed. “Darling, I love how daring you can be, but do you think next time we can do something less...heart pounding?” asked Rarity, as she fought to get the harness off. It was just a rock wall, not a real mountain, and yet every panting breath from her lips was proof enough it felt real.
She’d never flyShe’d never fly. She’d accepted it, as much as she had hated it. The sky was beyond her reach. Scootaloo stared up at the clouds as they lazed throughout the skies. She sighed heavily, as she wiped her forehoof against the dirt in frustration, and the bitterness of something out of her control. Wings too small. I’ll never be as good as her. Never will I be Rainbow Dash. But...it’s okay. I’m not Rainbow Dash, I could never hope to be her. She’s amazing, and I’m not. And like this is hard for me to admit, but sometimes I feel I’ve failed her. Like I haven’t lived up to her expectations. Do you understand why it’s so hard?” she asked no pony. The wind whipped by, and made her mane flow down over her eyes a bit. She breathed air upwards to get it back into place. Scootaloo lifted herself off the ground. She couldn’t dwindle here any longer. She had to move on. She had to press forward. She had to find something within herself that was worthy of showing to her big sister. Both Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle had talents of their own. But the only thing she was good at was riding her scooter. She glanced at the purple scooter as it laid against the grass where she had placed it. She stood it up. She hopped onto her scooter and began riding away from Ponyville. Away from reminders of her failings. She had to find something. She didn’t even know what that something was. But it was out there waiting for her to find it. ***********8 She lost track of how long she had ridden, or how far she had come, but she panted heavily as she laid her scooter to the side, as she saw a lone cabin in the midst of the wooded forest. Not the Everfree forest, but another forest, which had no name. Scootaloo reached her forehoof up and rapped on the door three times, and stood back waiting for an answer. Eventually, the door opened. There looking down at her, was a fellow pegasus pony, but Scootaloo couldn’t help but notice her wings were bandaged up to her sides. Why? Was she hurt? Who was she? This mare whom she didn’t know, had long curly crismon locks that reminded her of blood. The pony’s fur was a soft and sandy brown. Her cutie mark was of a pair of wings, the one wing looked almost like it was darker than the other. Why? “It seems my vision was true. A pony would come to my door in need. What do they call you young one?” asked the strange mare, as she tilted her head to the side. “Scootaloo, but you can just call me Scoots. And um...I actually didn’t come for help, I’m just tired and sore from traveling so much on my scooter, and I just need a place to lay my head.” “Ah, and I suppose the trees that cover you as you trekked here weren’t good enough? Do you not like the earth and the things it has clearly provided?” asked the mare. “Well. Yeah. But...like a bed would be nice.” replied Scootaloo, a bit frantic. “Hmm...A bed. Very well, you may come in and sleep for the night. But if you don’t wish for my help, then at least heed my advice. Don’t travel at night. This place is known for strange creatures coming out at the darkest of hours to nap little fillies like you. Ones so young, and so naive, that they would snatch you up before you could even blink an eye.” explained the mare. Scootaloo, took a moment to take a gulp of a breath. This mare, she wasn’t like anything or anyone she had ever heard of. And she wasn’t really sure she liked it. But well she was only going to be here a night right? It would be fine...She followed the mare to a spare room, where she saw a bed already made up, as the mare whispered to her a good night, before closing the door behind her. Scootaloo took the chance to just breathe. Before realizing, she left her scooter outside. “Man I’m so stupid.” she said as she went back outside to get her scooter. It was dark, she could hear the eeriness of the forest, as the wind made the leaves make noises that made her jump two inches into the air, letting out a shrill shriek, before blushing and coughing into her hoof.
We didn't start the fireIt happened so suddenly, so quickly, she barely had time to blink. The flames engulfed the entire building of Sugarcube corner. Pinkie Pie made a mad dash upstairs to get the twins and hurried outside. Panting heavily as she handed them off to the closest pony she could, Big Mac was there doing some errands for the farm. “Here, get them to safety.” she shouted as she ran back inside. “Pinkie Pie what are you doing?” asked Big Mac, tugging at her tail to keep her from going back into the fire. “Gummy’s still in there! I can’t leave him behind. I’d never forgive myself.” whined Pinkie Pie as she tugged herself forward, as Big Mac pulled back, the tug of war lasting a few seconds before Pinkie Pie managed to get herself free, and dash back into Sugarcube corner. Big Mac sighed heavily, as he charged in after her. Crazy, this was crazy. They could both die from this, but he wasn’t going to just leave her on her own. It wasn’t his nature. Pinkie Pie found Gummy with a mixing spoon in his mouth. She grabbed him, and put him on her head, as she turned to head back outside, as she coughed, and began gagging. The fumes of the fire were getting intense even for her. She wasn’t sure she’d make it back out. She used the last of her strength to push herself forward, and towards the exit of Sugarcube corner. Big Mac found her there collapsed on the floor as the smoke had made her unsteady and she found herself on the ground. Big Mac without hesitation picked up Pinkie Pie, throwing her onto his strong back, and dashing outside as fast as he could. Already outside, the residents of Ponyville had called for the fire ponies to put out the remaining flames. Pinkie Pie opened her eyelids, coughing and struggling to form a sentence. “Gummy...is he okay?” she asked as she reached up, and Gummy bit onto her hoof to let her know he was okay. Pinkie sighed heavily, as she felt dazed, and confused. “I know I didn’t start a fire. We didn’t start a fire, Gummy. What happened?” Pinkie asked her alligator. Gummy’s eyes got big as he tilted his head downwards so his eyes were looking straight into hers, almost like he was speaking to her in some foriegn language. Big Mac carefully put Pinkie Pie down back onto the ground far away from the now burnt remains of what used to be her home. He looked to Pinkie Pie, as she held onto her alligator, clinging to him tightly. “Oh Gummy, what are we going to do?” asked Pinkie Pie. Big Mac put a strong hoof onto her shoulder. “Pinkie Pie, I know this must be hard on ya, but ya’ll can stay with us at the farm for now.” offered Big Mac. After all they were sorta family? He could never quite figure it out. But it was the right thing to do, he couldn’t just let her wander the streets or go live with some random ponies she might notknow be as comfortable with. “Oh, Big Mac you are the sweetest stallion I ever knew!” she sobbed into his yolk he wore around. Big Mac stood there silently, as he gently reached a forehoof out, and pulled Pinkie Pie close. The twins were by his hooves. And every pony was safe. It was a good thing the cakes weren’t home. The worst part of the whole thing was now Sugarcube corner was reduced to a pile of ashes and cinders. Big Mac couldn’t imagine what would happen to him and his sisters if the barn burnt down. “We didn’t start a fire. We swear. Right Gummy?” asked Pinkie Pie as she sobbed, and clung onto Big Mac. She just kept repeating it over and over. “No, you didn’t start this, I know it Pinkie. You’d never do something so...terrible. But for now let’s get ya somewhere safe and…” he paused, he was going to say warm and realized that wasn’t the right word choice. This is why he preferred to keep things simple or not say anything at all. Right now, Pinkie Pie needed him to be her source of strength, until she calmed down. Big Mac went over and grabbed his wagon, seating the twins in it, and then putting Pinkie Pie into it as well. “Big Mac…” began Pinkie Pie. “Do you think we can rebuild it?” “Yep.” he lied. There wasn’t anyway to salvage what was there. They’d have to make a new Sugarcube corner, but right now Pinkie Pie needed to hear some good news. “Oh and Applejack made some pies today.” “Oh I do love me some pie. So warm and fluffy and full of flavor.” Pinkie Pie stated, licking her lips, as for the brief moment she forgot about what had just occurred. Big Mac trotted them to Apple Acres, Applejack was outside with Apple Bloom, the two of them were smashing blueberries together. Applejack saw the expression on Big Mac’s face as he pulled the wagon to a stop, and immediately she told Apple Bloom to get the twins inside after cleaning herself up. Once that was done, she went over to Pinkie Pie, who immediately clung to her like glue. “Oh AJ it’s terrible, horrible. The worst thing ever!” she flailed as she tried to explain about the fire, Sugarcube corner, and how Big Mac was there to save her when she couldn’t get out. “Woah, slow down Sugarcube. I reckon ya have been through a lot, so just breathe okay?” Applejack said, as she held both her front forelegs around Pinkie Pie, as she just stiffened into her golden orange coat, sniffening. “Big Mac, can you tell me anything about this?” asked Applejack. “Nope.” replied Big Mac. He didn’t know who started the fire, or how it had happened. All he knew was Pinkie Pie didn’t start the fire. She’d never do such a thing. Pinkie Pie had done all she could to keep her loved ones safe, risking her own life to ensure even Gummy got out safely. “She needs us.” spoke Big Mac. “I know she does, and we’ll be here for her. We’re family, isn’t that right?” she smiled gently, as she rubbed up and down Pinkie’s mane, to try to soothe her. “Family. Yeah...we’re family. And I can stay here until Sugarcube corner is rebuilt. Oh AJ it was awful. Just horrible. I can’t even think of anything good to say!” “I can.” Big Mac spoke up, as he nuzzled Pinkie Pie. “You’re safe, they are all safe, thanks to you. You saved them Pinkie Pie.” “I couldn’t have done it if you hadn’t been there to save me.” Pinkie Pie sobbed, holding onto him. “It’s okay. Sometimes ya’ll need a little help. You were brave and strong as an oak.” spoke Applejack, as the two of them both embraced Pinkie Pie, and for the first time all day, she felt the first genuine smile forming on her lips.
The proposalIt was a beautiful day in Ponyville. The birds were chirping and everything felt peaceful. She panted as she galloped to the entrance to Canterlot Boutique. She felt her cheeks flushing a deep dark cherry red, as she fidgeted in place. “Oh please be home. I don’t know what to do. Oh Celestia, I need Rarity to help me.” she spoke out loud, not realizing she was talking to herself. Rarity opened the door to see Fluttershy at her doorstep. “Fluttershy? What on earth, you look rather...panicked. Is everything alright? Does Twilight need us?” asked Rarity as she studied Fluttershy’s body language carefully. Fluttershy hurried to push Rarity inside and shut the door behind them, she quickly covered Rarity’s mouth as she was about to speak. “Ssssshhh! Some pony or creature might hear you. Or worse. Rarity...we’re friends right?” asked Fluttershy, fidgeting and playing with her pink locks, nervously she twitched. “Of course we’re friends. That is a silly question and I cannot help but wonder what on earth has gotten you so riddled up like this. It’s not like you.” began Rarity. “It’s Discord.” began Fluttershy, her blush getting darker, as she tried to shield her face with her eyes. “Him again. I should have figured. What has he done this time?” asked Rarity as her cheeks puffed up, holding out her forehooves and pretending to jab at the air. “I swear if that draconequus thinks he can hurt you, he has another thing coming.” “Rarity...listen. He didn’t hurt me. He didn’t even touch me. It’s...well um…” she hesitated and then just burst out, “He asked me to marry him!” “Oh…” Rarity blinked, and then chuckled. “Oh Fluttershy, that is just adorable. To think he’d actually ask you. Well…tell me everything.” “Right. Well when I got up this morning, I went out to check on my animals, and make sure the Sanctuary was doing well, and he was there waiting for me. He had this look on his face. I think he was grinning. Ofh course I approached him, and gave him a hug. I then asked him how he was doing, and well then he said he was doing great, but it would be even better if I was with him. Then I blushed darkly, and he turned my face towards him, he cupped my cheeks and well...he asked me to marry him! Oh Rarity, what should I do?” “Well, darling the first thing you need to answer is do you love Discord? Can you see yourself with him for the rest of your lives.” began Rarity. “After all, ifall if I was asked for my hoof in marriage, I would want to love the pony or creature that was asking me. Not that I’ve ever been asked! I think most stallions are afraid of me or something. Not that it matters. I’m here to help you after all.” Rarity chuckled, even as she felt a bit of guilt. She felt this unease within herself. To think Fluttershy might be getting married and she had yet to find that perfect stallion of her dreams. Maybe he just didn’t exist. Oh well, it’s not like she needed romance in her life. She was more than happy for Fluttershy, but only if she would truly be happy living her life with someone as chaotic as Discord. Rarity didn’t know what she saw in him, but she wasn’t going to judge Fluttershy for liking him either. “Well, I do love him, I always have. It’s just I never thought I’d ever get asked this was all. I sort of panicked and came here, hoping you’d have some sort of advice.” “If you love him, then tell him that. Tell him to sweep you off your hooves and take you over that magical rainbow, they call love. Or at least those silly fairy tales that Sweetie Belle reads.” Rarity chuckled, coughing into her hoof, not wanting to admit she read those fairy tales herself, and would want nothing more than to be the Princess that got rescued by the fair and charming prince, only to be wed to him by the end of the tale. But that was just a fairy tale, and this was well real life, and a real problem at hoof. She had to assure Fluttershy that everything would be okay. “Oh...yeah. I probably shouldn’t have ran off like I did. I hope he didn’t take that as a no.” Fluttershy blushed, and hurried back out the door. “Thanks Rarity!” ************8 Discord kicked at the flowers on the ground, and grumbled to himself. Muttering under his breath. “Why’d she run off? What did I say wrong? I’ve been practicing this proposal for months! Oh...if she says no what will I do? No, I can’t think like this. Knowing Fluttershy she just got flustered. Yeah, that’s it. She totally didn’t ditch me because she doesn’t want to hurt me…” “Discord!”
