Fleur De Lis, Shining Star, and Ozzy Shore after quite a passionate night to say the least, were resting comfortably in Fleur's bed. Ozzy with his back flat on the mattress with two naked mares on their sides asleep beside him, their heads not too far from Ozzy's. Who while still asleep had an arm rather firmly wrapped around each one. Fleur was the first to wake up as the gentle rays of the sun reached her eyes. Fleur then gently placed her lips on Ozzy's and the kiss much like before, quickly became lustful in nature.

Within moments Ozzy was awake.

"I wouldn't mind getting used to that wake up call," Ozzy whispered.

"Perhaps I can get that wake up call next time," Fleur whispered back with a giggle. Ozzy then kissed Fleur back with passion while making sure not to wake Shiny. Before long though Shiny would start to rub Ozzy's chest, her way of saying that she wanted in on the fun as well which Ozzy and Fleur had no problem with. Despite just waking up the trio had a lot of energy, and they would soon be using all that energy at once.

"Well that escalated quickly," Ozzy said as he and the mares had finally gotten out of bed and started to get dressed.

"Well it's not like that wasn't the first time that happened," Shiny added as she and Fleur helped each other get their bras on.

"But this time just might be the best one," Fleur said. After that they went downstairs and helped themselves to a relaxing breakfast. Shiny especially was relaxed which Ozzy and Fleur couldn't help but notice. "My Ozzy, you've really put Shiny in a good mood," Fleur mentioned as she was reading the paper.

"Well, it's not just that. Clocking Solar Flare in the jaw really helped too," Shiny said as she closed her eyes smiling with her hands behind her head remembering the very thing she mentioned.

"Speak of the devil," Fleur said. "He's right here in the paper, apparently he checked himself into the hospital after he somehow," Fleur paused for some reason as Ozzy and Shiny awaited in rather suspense. "Broke his jaw," Fleur answered causing the trio to pause, unsure how to respond. Only for the silence to be utterly broken when the three busted into explosive laughter, which rather shocked several of the maids that were working not too far away.

"We, we, we," Ozzy tried to say but couldn't stop himself from laughing. "We shouldn't laugh about something like that."

"Yes we should!" Shiny said as she continued to laugh. "It's the least he deserves."

"Yeah, but I'm actually really glad that he's making an effort to be better," Fleur said. "I just hope it wasn't my punch that broke his jaw."

"Yeah, I hope it was mine!"

"All right Shiny, that's enough," Fleur said.

"Okay, you have a point," Shiny said as she finally stopped laughing.

"I'm actually really glad that Solar is trying to turn over a new leaf too," Ozzy said.

"Yeah, unlike a certain other stallion," Shiny said as she also recalled the time she got back at Puff Tie taking the same position as before.

"I can't get over how good a mood you're in Shiny," Ozzy said as he got behind her and decided to rub her shoulders, putting her in even more of a good mood.

"Shiny?"

"Mm, yes Ozzy?"

"Did it really feel good when you punched Solar Flare so hard he fell on his back?"

"Yes, it did. But not as much as this," Shiny answered and Ozzy started to slow down the massage a bit and stretched his fingers down her back more. "If you're trying to get me in the mood again Ozzy, you're doing a very good job."

"I only ask because I was rather tempted to sock Robert myself when I saw him."

"Oh, he did put you through a lot," Fleur said as she placed her hands on Ozzy's back and gave him a bit of a back rub as well.

"Actually it was when he asked you two to take your tops off," Ozzy answered.

"Oh," Fleur replied.

"I wouldn't have blamed you if you did," Shiny said. "I might have given him a good punch along with you," she added.

"Though as good as it felt socking him, it felt even better when I was able to forgive. Because it feels like a weight has been pulled off of me," Fleur said.

"Yeah, that felt pretty good too," Shiny said as she got up while making sure Ozzy's relaxing hands didn't get off her back. Shiny then placed her hands on Fleur and started to give her a back rub.

"What are you doing?" Fleur asked as she couldn't help but laugh a bit.

"I don't know, I just didn't want you to feel left out," Shiny answered.

"I think Ozzy is starting to rub off on you," Fleur teased.

"Oh he's done a lot more than rub," Shiny added.

"Shiny!" Ozzy almost yelled out embarrassed.

"Well it's true," she retorted.

"Yeah, but at least wait until we finish breakfast," Ozzy asked of her.

"Okay fair enough, but first." Shiny then pulled Fleur and Ozzy into a hug, both of whom immediately returned it. "There was a time that I thought I'd never be this happy," Shiny said. "We've been through so much, but we've helped each other through it all as well."

"She's right," Ozzy said as he hugged the mares a little tighter. "And after all that we've been through and all we've helped each other with, I think we can finally put the past behind us."

"Well, not the entire past," Fleur said which was followed by a bit of an awkward science.

"Wait," Shiny said as the three broke apart from the hug. "You mean it's that time again?"

"Yes," Fleur answered.

"Wait, what time?" Ozzy asked as he started to wonder if he should be concerned.

"Every year my brother and I take a trip to our summer cottage in the countryside."

"How come?" Ozzy asked.

"Because that's where mom and dad were buried," Fleur answered. And with that Ozzy understood everything. "Ever since they passed away Fancy and I made it a tradition to visit them every year."

"Well I hope you two have a pleasant stay," Ozzy said."

"What?" Fleur asked.

"You and your brother Fancy, I hope you enjoy visiting your parents," Ozzy said.

"Oh no Ozzy, you're coming too," Fleur said.

"What?"

"Don't be too surprised Ozzy, Fancy and I don't go alone we bring those we consider family as well. It's a nice relaxing time, sort of like a mini-vacation that we take to relax from all the drama from our jobs, social standings, or anywhere else really."

"Fleur and I actually really look forward to it. Sometimes it's nice to get away from it all," Shiny said.

"After we finish breakfast do either of you mind if we head over to Fancy's house?" Neither Shiny nor Ozzy had a problem with that so Fleur called up Silver for a quick trip to her brother's house. He like Ozzy and Fleur had no problem and before long the three made their way over to his house. Once there Buttermilk greeted them at the door and brought them to Fancy Pants who was more than happy to see them.

"Fleur, Shiny, Ozzy, jolly good to see you again," Fancy said as he walked over to his sister to give her a warm hug that she returned right away. Fancy then informed them that he had been expecting their arrival because he knew exactly why Fleur had come.

"I'm not surprised one bit," Fleur said. "You always were good with schedules and events, plus the whole annual trip was your idea."

"Speaking of which," Fancy said. "Do you recall how we agreed it was okay if we invited others to our little annual getaway?"

"Of course," Fleur answered.

"Are Toffee and Bubbles coming as well?" Ozzy asked.

"No, that would be nice but they're too busy to come this year and Silver wants to stay and make sure the both of our manors will be all right with us gone. I'm actually inviting two new guests that are here with me right now, they arrived right before you got here actually."

"Really who are they?" Ozzy asked and right after he did he got his answer.

"Hey, Oz-Man!" Jude called out getting everypony's attention as he came into the room and wrapped his arm around Ozzy which he returned.

"Oh gosh," Shiny said as she put her hand on her face. "You can't be inviting him."

"I like him," Fancy answered. "I find him charmingly rustic."

"Thank you, that's a compliment right?"

"For you, it's more than one," Shiny replied resulting in her getting an elbow in the gut from Fleur. It wasn't very hard but it got her attention.

"Shiny, be nice," Fleur said calmly yet firmly.

"Ever since that little stallions night out a while back, Jude and I became rather close. So I wanted him to come with us to help us get a little closer."

"And speaking of which since he invited me I invited a certain spry filly that I want to get closer to as well," Jude said, and as if right on cue Shimmer Dress walked in surprising the trio.

"Shiny! Fleur! Ozzy!" Shimmer Dress called out while showing off a bit of her new dress that ironically or rather fittingly was shimmering.

"Shimmy!" Fleur and Shiny said at the same time as they went over to hug her.

"You're coming too?" Ozzy asked as his marefriends continued hugging her.

"Of course, we've been separated far too long, I'm taking any excuse to spend time with these two," Shimmer Dress answered. "And spending time with you Ozzy isn't half bad either," Shimmer added as they all stopped hugging. Including Jude and Ozzy.

"Thank you Shimmer," Ozzy replied as he couldn't help but blush a little bit.

"Yeah this'll be great," Jude said with excitement. "Just me, the Oz-man, and some babes. Oh, and you too Fancy sorry."

"Quite all right Jude," Fancy replied. "Though it won't just be us."

"Really who else is coming Fancy?" Fleur asked.

"Well I could tell you, but I won't," Fancy answered with a rather mischievous smile. "I think I'll keep it a surprise, it's a very special guest."

"Oh, somepony important?" Shimmer Dress asked.

"Oh yes quite," Fancy answered. "But that's all you'll get from me."

"Hey Fancy," Ozzy said who had been rather in deep thought up till now. "Is it okay if I invite someone else?" Ozzy's question rather surprised everypony as none of them were quite sure who he was talking about.

"Why of course my good man, but who do you mean?"

"Well, I think I'll keep that my surprise," Ozzy answered and then asked Fancy Pants if he could use a phone he had. Fancy then informed Ozzy of a phone located in the other room.

***

The next day Ozzy got up bright and early and made sure that Shiny and Fleur did the same to pack for their trip. After a small lunch, they went to the train station, and to their surprise, Ace Sawyer was already there waiting for them on a bench.
"I was rather expecting you lot about 15 minutes earlier," Ace said as he checked his watch while still sitting on the bench.

"Ace?" Shiny asked. "What are you doing here? Were you following us or something?"

"If I was following you, how could I have beaten you here?" Ace asked rather stumping Shiny.

"He's here because I invited him," Ozzy answered.

"You did?" Fleur asked rather surprised.

"I wanted to thank him for giving me the advice I needed, as well as collecting all of the groceries I meant to get."

"He was rather surprisingly insistent," Ace said as he looked the other way to point out the others who had arrived.

"Your surprise invite I presume?" Fancy asked as he arrived with Jude and Shimmy. Ace then introduced himself to the trio and Ozzy explained why he invited Ace once again.

"I'm rather surprised you agreed to come, Ace, since we hardly know each other," Fleur said.

"When Ozzy explained everything it intrigued me," Ace answered.

"It what?" Jude asked.

"Caught my curiosity," Ace replied.

"If Ozzy hardly knows you, how was he able to contact you?" Fancy asked and then Ace answered his question by giving him one of his cards, the same kind he gave Ozzy. "My my, a detective and a lawyer. Quite impressive."

"Is he any good?" Jude asked.

"Oh, he is," Ozzy answered. "He could tell just by looking at me that I had a lot on my mind."

"So where's the other surprise invite?" Shimmer Dress asked.

"She should be here any moment now, honestly I expected her to be the first here."

"Hey Ace," Jude said. "Can you guess who the pony that's going to be joining us for our little trip is? Fancy won't say," Jude finished as Fancy Pants decided to take a sip from a water canteen that he decided to bring for his annual trip with his sister. "I think it might be a special lady friend if you know what I mean," Jude said as he wrapped an arm around Shimmer Dress's waist.

"No that's not going to be it," Fleur said.

"Is it Princess Celestia?" Ace asked and right after he did Fancy spat out the water he was about to drink shocking the others. "I was right wasn't I?"

"How could you have figured that out?" Fancy Pants asked which once again shocked the others.

"Wait he's right?!" Fleur said pretty much speaking for the others.

"Yes," Fancy answered. "But how could you have known?"

"Elementary my dear Watson," Ace said as he stood up. "By being told he's not saying who the individual is implies that they're important enough to get a shock out of the others within his circle. And since he is from a noble, the individual can't be another noble or some sort of celebrity so it has to be somepony above your status, that being royalty."

"You were able to figure all that out just from what you heard?" Fancy said.

"That, and she's standing right behind you," Ace answered and when he did the others turned around to see that she was indeed standing right behind Fancy Pants. Princess Celestia waved at the others who bowed out of respect at her, all except Ace.

"Princess, forgive me for not noticing you sooner your highness," Fancy said as he raised his head.

"It's quite all right," Princess Celestia answered.

"How long were you there?" Fleur asked.

"Not long," she answered. "I arrived little before that little spit take your brother made."

"Oh, you saw that?" Fancy said a little embarrassed of doing that in front or rather behind the princess.

"The length was quite impressive," she replied as she laughed a little bit before gesturing the others to stand, all except Ace who was standing the whole time and approached the princess and offered his hand. Princess Celestia was rather surprised as she couldn't remember the last time somepony did that, and for her that's saying a lot. But she didn't hesitate to shake Ace's hand. "It's nice to meet you, who might you be?"

"Ace Sawyer detective lawyer." Ace then circled around the princess rather surprising her again as well as the others. "My my, a winged unicorn. I read all about them and always believed in creatures of myth and legend, but I never thought I'd actually see one."

"The technical term is an alicorn," Princess Celestia said as Ace finished circling her.

"I see," Ace said now focusing on Princess Celestia's rather large mane which moved all on its own. Ace then placed his hand through it rather than holding the end of her mane. "How do you get your mane and tail to do this?"

"Uh Ace," Ozzy said getting his attention right away. "You're getting in the princess's royal space." Ace then looked at Princess Celestia and saw she was indeed a bit uncomfortable.

"Ah, of course," Ace said as he took his hand out of her mane. "Forgive me, my curiosity gets the best of me sometimes."

"It's quite all right," Celestia replied. "I understand, my sister and I have always been "anomalies" as others have put it, I hope you're having a great time here in Equestria. And as I said it's nice to meet you."

"Pleased to make your royal acquaintance."

"Speaking of curiosity, how come you didn't bow like the others?"

"I simply believe in treating others the way I want to be treated, besides being a princess isn't it rather tiring that others are always kissing your royal butt?"

"Actually, yeah it kind of does." Princess Celestia then made her way to the others starting with Fancy Pants.

"I really appreciate you saying that I could come with you and your sister on this trip. Your parents were rather close friends of mine and I believe I've put off paying my respects to them long enough."

"The honor is all mine princess," Fancy replied. "Perhaps you could tell us how you became so close to my mother and father."

"I would love to," Princess Celestia replied as she made her way over to Jude and Shimmer Dress. "I don't believe we've met. Who might you be?"

"I'm Shimmer Dress, I was one of Fleur and Shiny's friends in high school. We haven't seen each other in a long time, so we're making up for it by using every excuse we have to get together. And this is a pretty good one. Oh, I almost forgot this is my coltfriend Jude Wesley." Princess Celestia then offered her hand to Jude.

"Wow you're hot," Jude said rather loudly. "Are you a princess and a supermodel?" He asked which Princess Celestia couldn't help but laugh at. So much she didn't notice how embarrassed the others were at his comment most of all Shining Star who facepalmed with both hands.

"No, I'm no supermodel, though funny enough I was offered a chance to be in a commercial recently. Speaking of which." Princess Celestia then made her way to the last three members of the group while Shimmer Dress gave Jude an elbow to the gut. "Shining Star, Fleur De Lis, Ozzy Shore. It's nice to see you again."

"The feeling is mutual," Ozzy replied. "Will Princess Luna be joining you, or us?"

"No, she wasn't close to Fleur and Fancy's parents. Besides I needed somepony to cover my duties while I'm gone. Though if you miss her I could ask her to pay you a visit in your dreams," Celestia replied which rather caught Ace's attention.

"Well, maybe. Either way thank you," Ozzy replied.

"Speaking of which," Fancy said. "Ace, when you saw the princess how did you know which one she was?"

"When I arrived here, I was quite curious about this world. Such as this countries leaders. Princess Celestia and Princess Luna. The former name means the sky or heavenly, while the latter means moon. I doubt Princess Luna would have a sun on her arm."

"Wow Ozzy you were right, he is good. I don't suppose you know if the train is going to get here soon?" Jude asked.

"It's going to be at the station any moment now," Ace answered.

"How did you figure that out?" Shimmer Dress asked and then Ace pointed to the train which was making its way from beyond the horizon. "Oh, good eye."

"I just pay attention a lot," Ace replied. When the train arrived the group entered right away sat in different rooms. Ozzy shared his with Shiny and Fleur while Jude did the same with Shimmer Dress, Fancy Pants decided to stay in one by himself and watch the land go by as he did. Ace Sawyer was going to sit by himself as well but Princess Celestia asked him to join her in her room which he agreed to without question.

"Wonder what Princess Celestia wants from Ace?" Shimmer Dress asked.

"Maybe she has a crush on him," Jude said.

"Thank you for agreeing to my request," Princess Celestia said when she and Ace were alone.

"No big deal, I just had to sit somewhere else," Ace replied sitting on the other side of the cart. "Did you ask me to come with you because you need a detective?"

"No it's just, there's still very little I know about the world you call home. And since the train ride will take a while, I would like to ask you about E-arth."

"It's pronounced Earth."

"Oh, good to know. I would have asked Ozzy or Jude but-"

"They brought their sweethearts and you don't want to get in the middle," Ace finished.

"You are good, do you have a sweetheart on Earth Ace?"

"I did," he answered while remaining stoic. "But that was a long time ago."

"Oh, I'm so sorry." Princess Celestia as she put her hands to her chest.

"That's quite all right, I suppose that makes us even."

"Yes, I suppose it does."

"But speaking of which," Ace said. "How do you get your hair to do that all the time?"

"I thought you were going to ask that again, it's a very interesting story."

***

As the train made its way to the countryside the group quickly made their way off the train, though Princess Celestia like when she got on the train was stopped by several ponies who wanted her autograph. As they left the station they made their way up a grassy hill following a long dirt trail that lead them to a rather large cottage by a lake and facing a forest that was not too far away. Just beyond the cottage was the exact top of the hill, that was where Fleur and Fancy's parents were buried. Burying them there was Fleur and Fancy's idea thinking that way they would watch over them and the ones they brought with them.

"Wow pretty fancy," Jude said.

"Yes in an old fashion way," Princess Celestia said.

"Indeed, quite quaint," Ace added.

"Quaint?" Ozzy asked.

"It's another word for old-fashioned," Fleur answered.

"Or unusual," Ace added once again. The group then made their way into the cottage and dropped off their bags by the door. As they entered the cottage the newcomers and even the old comers that just forgot could tell from the inside that it was made with great care and attention to detail.

"This looks like quite the place to get away from it all," Shimmer Dress said.

"Yes, Fleur and I always loved coming here. Our parents, even more. That's why we thought it fitting to bury them here," Fancy finished. Fleur and Fancy then lead the others upstairs to count the bedrooms to see if there was enough. There was a total of five, the last one being the master bedroom where Fleur and Fancy's parents slept. After that they came back to the living room downstairs to collect their things after figuring out who goes where.

"You know," Ozzy said as he looked up at the master bedroom. "Princess Celestia should have that room."

"What?" She asked and the others agreed. "No I couldn't, it's such a large bed enough for three. If I take it all to myself there won't be enough."

"Yes there will," Ace replied as he went back downstairs and asked the others to do the same. "Five rooms eight individuals. Princess Celestia in one, Jude and Shimmer Dress in another, Fancy in the third, and Ozzy, Shiny, and Fleur using the last two beds as they see fit."

"But Ace that's only-" Princess Celestia stopped when Ace jumped on the living room sofa by a large TV that even had a cable box and DVD player. "Eight."

"Wait is this one of the bedrooms?" Jude asked as he stood by a wooden door about to open it.

"No," Fancy replied. "That a-" Fancy stopped when Jude opened the door and numerous things from within the closet fell out of it and onto the floor. "Supply closet."

"My bad," Jude replied with a big goofy smile. "I'll clean all that up." Jude bent down to get the stuff that fell, but suddenly all the said items were surrounded by a golden aura and then lifted into the air.

"I think it would be better if I got it," Princess Celestia said with her horn glowing. She then used her magic to place the items neatly and spread them out on a nearby large table.

"Nicely done," Ace complemented.

"Thank you," Celestia responded. Suddenly Fleur and Fancy walked over to the table looking at the various things several of which were board games such as Apologies, Scrambling, and Surgery. Along with them, they looked over several decks of poker cards, several sport balls, and half a dozen or so team uniforms.

"Quite the collection of things placed in that tiny closet," Ace said. "No wonder they fell out the way they did."

"Are these what I think they are?" Fleur asked still by the table with her brother.

"I believe they are Fleur," Fancy answered as he looked over the deck of cards and picked up one of the balls. "It's mom and dad's entertainment collection."

"Entertainment collection?" Ozzy asked.

"Well that's not quite what mom and dad called it," Fleur said. "But when we were younger mom and dad brought all sorts of things with us to the cottage to entertain us. Board and card games for inside and stuff for playing outside like Soccer or Dodgeball."

"Isn't it kind of hard to play dodgeball outside?" Ace asked.

"That's what makes it a challenge," Fancy said as he picked up a dodgeball and got a rather mischievous idea. "Think fast!" Fancy called out to Ace right before he threw the dodgeball right at him, but Ace reacted without hesitation and caught it. "Nice catch my good lad."

"Thank you, your turn," Ace replied.

"What?" Fancy asked and suddenly Ace threw the ball right back at Fancy Pants hitting him right in the gut.

"Nice shot," Fancy replied as he bent down a little placing a hand on his stomach as Fleur walked over to his side.

"Thank you," Ace replied.

"My my quite an arm you got there," Princess Celestia said. "Are you an athlete in your spare time?"

"I'm just a man with many talents," Ace replied.

"I should say so," Fancy said now standing straight up. "But let's see how you do with a different game," Fancy said as he picked up a buckball.

"Is that a buckball?" Shimmer Dress asked.

"Why yes it is, you know of it?" Fancy asked.

"A little," Shimmer Dress answered.

"It's kind of been around for a while but recently it's had a rise in popularity," Princess Celestia added.

"How do you play?" Ace asked.

"Well you're going to need a team of three first of all," Fancy replied.

"I'm in," Jude said with his hand in the air. Jude then grabbed Shimmer Dress's hand and placed it in the air with his. "And so is Shimmer Dress!"

"I am?"

"Oh come on Shimmy we just got off the train, after all that sitting we need to stretch our legs."

"I guess you have a point there," Shimmer said starting to like the idea.

"Sounds interesting," Ace said and soon the others joined in as well. The group made their way to the back of the cottage where Fancy Pants explained the rules of the game, as well as how they won't be able to play the regular way due to lack of pegasi. But they were able to adapt, naturally Ozzy teamed up with Fleur and Shiny while Fancy teamed with Jude and Shimmer Dress. Leaving Ace with Princess Celestia.

"Kinda wished we invited a 9th member," Shiny said feeling rather bad for Princess Celestia.

"Maybe I could sit out and she can be with you two," Ozzy suggested.

"No, that won't be necessary," Ace said.

"It won't?" Princess Celestia.

"Being an alicorn must mean you possess abnormal abilities does it not?" Ace asked.

"Well, it certainly has its advantages," Princess Celestia replied.

"Advantages is the keyword, with your powers and my intelligence, a lack of a third member won't be much of a problem."

"You think so?" Princess Celestia asked as she couldn't quite help but raise an eyebrow.

"Yes."

"Good enough for me," Princess Celestia replied to Ace's answer.

"Speaking of teams, maybe Fancy and I should be on the same team," Fleur said.

"Oh not at all Fleur," Fancy Pants replied. "After all, I can't beat you if you're on my team."

"Oh yeah?" Fleur said getting in her brother's face.

"Yeah," Fancy replied. With that the groups then got to playing with the teams of three first with Ace and Princess Celestia as referees, this allowed Ace to see how the game works and the others in action. Shiny naturally played the role of the earth pony with Shimmer Dress opposing her, on the condition she didn't use her magic. Ozzy and Jude played the roles of the pegasi behind them leaving Fleur and her brother Fancy with the fitting roles of the unicorns. Ozzy's team was able to pull off a win thanks to Shiny getting to the ball most of the time.

"Good game Fancy," Fleur said to her brother as she offered her hand who shook it.

"Good game Fleury," Fancy replied.

"That was quite the game," Jude said. "I definitely got to stretch my legs."

"Yeah, same here," Ozzy said.

"I hope you aren't too tired, we play winner," Ace said.

"Yes that was the agreement," Princess Celestia added. "But they seem to be quite the formidable team, it won't be easy."

"Perhaps," Ace said. "But they're still going down."

"Oh yeah?" Fleur said as she got in Ace's face.

"Yeah," Ace replied. Fleur then got back together with her team.

"You two ready?" Fleur asked.

"You better believe it," Ozzy answered.

"Same here," Shiny replied. "Let's knock that human's ego down to size!"

"It's not ego, it's fact." Ace replied as he got in position with Shiny.

"Oh he is so going down," Fleur said. But despite her statement her team hardly scored a point against him and Princess Celestia. After watching Ace not only saw how to play, but how to win. Along with his wit and speed, Princess Celestia proved to be a valuable team member. She took the role of the pegasus but also used her magic to control where the buckball bucket would go, it would prove difficult for most but she learned to multitask a long time ago.

She countered nearly all of the ball throws that Shiny was able to get and made sure the basket caught the ball everytime Ace had it. Fleur, Shiny, and Ozzy never stood a chance.

"I can't believe this," Shiny said as she was laying on the grass. "He stands so still most of the time how can he be so fast?" She asked as she recalled how she barely managed to touch the ball. Fancy's team gave it a try and they even mixed up the teams a few times but the end was always the same.

"Like I said It's not ego it's fact," Ace said as he made his way over to Shiny, tired from being in the last game and offered his hand to help her up which she accepted. After getting back into the cottage everybody and everypony helped themselves to some food, not just what they brought but some already at the cottage. Such as a carefully preserved bottle of wine which all but Ace were happy to have some.

"Come on Ace try some it's delicious," Jude offered as he was mixing the wine with a few other alcohols he brought with him. "I think I can make something really good.

"No thank you, I've sworn off alcohol," Ace said as he was getting the board games. After working up quite an appetite the group wanted to play a game while they ate. Princess Celestia, Ace, Fleur, and Shiny wanted to play Scrambling while Jude, Shimmer Dress, Ozzy, and Fancy Pants played Apologizes. Both games can have a max of four players the group decided who wanted to play what then Ace went to set the board games on separate tables.

"Are you sure you didn't want to play Apologizes?" Fleur asked Shiny. "You were quite fond of that game?"

"I'll play some other time," Shiny replied. "Right now I want to settle the score with this guy," Shiny continued as she pointed at Ace.

"Hope you’re ready to lose again then," Ace said.

"Wow you smiled, it's a shame I'm gonna whip it right off your face."

"Is she always like this?" Celestia asked Fleur.

"No, and it's a bit alarming," Fleur answered. While that was going on Ozzy was setting up the pieces for his group while Jude was with Shimmer Dress and finishing his dinner, both of whom were a bit drunk from the wine.

"That was quite a meal," Jude said.

"Yeah I'm rather stuffed," Shimmer Dress added.

"You think maybe Princess Celestia will want to play Apologizes after the four of us finish a game?"

"Why want to hit on her again?"

"Oh come on honey you aren't still mad about my comment at the train station are you?"

"It's not just the train station, you've been checking her out quite a bit haven't you?" Shimmer Dress asked.

"Not just me," Jude replied. "You've been checking her out quite a bit too haven't you?"

"What!? I don't know what you're, okay a little," Shimmer Dress had to admit. "It's kind of hard not to, she is beautiful." After Shimmer Dress said that she got an idea most likely formed from the booze still in her system. "Hey Jude, I dare you to give her a kiss."

"What?"

"Come on you've been thinking about it, why not just do it?" Shimmer Dress then started to laugh at her own joke but stopped when Jude stood up.

"Okay," Jude said as he was about to walk over to her.

"Wait," Shimmer Dress said as she tried to grab Jude but he slipped through her fingers. The said fingers then went to her face in embarrassment at what was to come. "Oh gosh, you're gonna get in so much trouble." Jude while having a little trouble walking made his way over to Princess Celestia, and placed his hand on the corner of the table she was sitting at getting her attention while also helping to make sure he didn't fall.

"Hey," Jude said.

"Uh, hello," Princess Celestia replied.

"You having a go-, good time?"

"Yes," she answered.

"Well let me help you have a great time."

"What are you talking abou-" Princess Celestia was cut off when Jude grabbed her face by both her cheeks and pulled her into a kiss surprising all of the others, most of all the princess. Jude was then pulled off the princess by Shining Star.

"LET GO OF HER! WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU APOLOGIZE TO THE PRINCESS RIGHT NOW!"

"Um, it's okay really," Princess Celestia said understandably embarrassed by what just happened. "I think the booze made him do it."

"That's never an excuse," Ace added.

"It was my fault," Shimmer Dress said as she managed to make her way over to the table. "I dared him to kiss you as a joke, I didn't think he do it." Shimmer Dress then took Jude from Shiny who tried to grab onto her shoulder but grabbed her breast instead.

"Wow Shimmy you have a really soft shoulder," Jude said as he suddenly passed out.

"Something tells me that our game has been put on hold," Ozzy said.

"Something tells me that you're right," Fancy Pants replied.

"Looks like he had more wine than he should have, I think he's ready for bed," Shimmer Dress said as she helped Jude make his way upstairs.

"Well," Ace said breaking the awkward silence. "That happened."

"Yes," Princess Celestia replied. "It did."

"Do, you still want to play?" Fleur asked.

"Yes," Princess Celestia answered. "Just give me a minute."

"Good because it will only take me a minute to clobber Jude for what he did," Shiny said as she cracked her knuckles."

"Now now," Ace said as he raised his hand getting Shiny's attention. "There's no need to get intemperate about this."

"She's more conscientious than intemperate," Princess Celestia said.

"I am not," Shiny said. "Whatever those mean."

"No reason to get irritable," Ace said.

"No offense Shiny but I don't think we're going to win," Fleur said and soon enough she would see how right she was as the game quickly became between just Princess Celestia and Ace. The former of whom was just able to pull off the win.

"My my," Ace said. "It's been quite a while since I've met someone or in this case somepony that could match me in the written word."

"Thank you Ace," Princess Celestia said as she looked out a nearby window noticing that her sister had already caused the sun to set. "I think it's time I went to bed." As Princess Celestia said that the others looked at a nearby clock and saw that was indeed rather late.

"Wow time really does fly when you're having fun," Fleur said. Ace made his way to the couch but Princess Celestia placed her hand on his shoulder.

"Ace," she said. "I don't think you should sleep on the couch, why don't you share my bed." Hearing that rather surprised the others, even Ace despite his rather stoic nature who raised his eyelids. "Now, don't get any wrong ideas. I don't have any, desires. I just want to repay you for all those victories you got me in the buckball games. Besides the bed is more than large enough for two ponies to share, or one pony and one human."

"I suppose it is, but," Ace paused. "What if I were to move around in my sleep and touch something, abnormally large?" Ace asked as he looked down at the princess's abnormally large breasts.

"I see, I appreciate your concern but I know how we can avoid it." Princess Celestia then made her way to the master bedroom and the others followed as they were rather curious. When she entered the bedroom along with the others she pulled out the covers of the bed for her to get under. "My sister and I used to share the same bed a lot when we were just fillies, we'll be using the same method. I'll sleep under the cover while you sleep over the cover, and never the two shall meet."

"Simple yet brilliant," Ace said as Shiny approached him.

"But let's get one thing straight," Shiny said as she approached Ace. "The princess is trusting you, so you better not try something funny or you'll have to answer to me."

"O-oh, I'm so afraid," Ace said clearly not intimated by Shiny's comment.

"Don't underestimate me just because I'm a mare," Shiny said as she raised her fists trying to scare Ace but once again Ace was not intimidated. Shiny threw a few soft punches but Ace blocked them with no effort. "Wow, pretty fast."

"You didn't learn that from buckball?" Ace asked which Princess Celestia couldn't help but laugh at.

"You're funny Ace," Princess Celestia said.

"So I've been told," Ace replied.

"That's enough Shiny," Fleur said. "If Princess Celestia trusts him so should we."

"All right," Shiny said as she lowered her fists and turned away from Ace. "But I'm serious about what I said." Shiny as she whipped her tail at Ace, but he caught it before she could hit Ace who tugged her tail several times.

"Keeps your hands and your tail to yourself, got it?" Ace asked as he gave her tail another tug.

"Yes sir," Shiny replied trying to keep it together. When Ace let go she made her way to the others who let themselves out.

"Are you alright Shiny?" Ozzy asked.

"Yes, I'm all right," Shiny answered as she took a minute to compose herself.

"Well Jude's asleep," Shimmer Dress said as she walked up to the others.

"Well then I'll go join him, you know what I mean. Goodnight," Fancy Pants said.

"Goodnight," the others said as he walked off.

"Speaking of which," Shimmer Dress said. "Jude covered the whole bed and I'm worried what he might do if I wake him up in his current, "condition". I know this might be rather last second but, can I stay in one of the other beds tonight?"

"That's fine Shimmy," Fleur said.

"Yeah, anything to keep Jude from doing something stupid, maybe we should just send him home."

"Now Shiny," Fleur said as she gave her friend a playful shove.

"Fine, tell you what. Here's what we'll do Fleur you can share the night with Shimmy while I get the other bed with Ozzy."

"What?" The others asked.

"The other beds won't fit three and Ozzy agreed to stay with me for the night," Shiny explained.

"What? No I-" Ozzy was cut off when suddenly Shiny placed one of her hands over his mouth preventing him from speaking. She then used her other arm to push Ozzy's back gesturing to walk and he decided it would be best to just go with it.

"You know, I should let her have this considering," Fleur said.

"Considering what?"

"I'll explain in the bedroom." When Ozzy was forced into the bedroom he was thrown onto the bed and Shiny jumped right on him, kissing him passionately.

"Sorry Ozzy," Shiny said as she broke her kiss.

"It's okay," Ozzy said with Shiny still on top of her remembering what pulling her tail does.

"That guy is stronger than he looks," Shiny said. "When he pulled my tail, I thought it was going to break off."

"I see, listen I feel kind of bad that we left Fleur maybe I should go get her."

"Oh come on," Shiny said rubbing her finger across Ozzy's chest. "She has Shimmy to keep her company. Let me keep you to myself for the night," Shiny almost begged as she got up to reach into the suitcase and pull out the nightgown she wore on her first date with Ozzy.

"Okay."

***

Morning came and Princess Celestia who was early to wake up out of habit made her to the lake on the other side of the cottage. There she pulled up her dress to place her legs in the water, helping her clear her head and relax. So much in fact she didn't hear Jude walk behind and shove her. But as quickly as he did he grabbed onto her shoulders he pulled her back.
"Saved your life Princess Celestia," Jude said as he was still holding her shoulders.

"What?" She asked while she placed her hands placed her left breast, as Jude's gesture made her heart jump.

"I was going to push you in, but I saved your life."

"You were gonna push me in?"

"No, it was a joke-" Jude was cut off when Shiny who made her way to the lake with Fleur smacked him in the back of the head.

"STOP BOTHERING THE PRINCESS!" Shiny yelled. "You did that enough last night, and your lucky she didn't have you locked in a dungeon, or banished, or banished and locked in the dungeon in the place she banished you to."

"I know," Jude answered while rubbing the back of his head. "That's why I made her this." Jude then picked up a breakfast in bed tray he placed on the ground moments ago with a large breakfast and placed it on the princess's lap.

"Oh my, is that all for me?"

"Yeah," Jude said still rubbing his head with one arm. "I'm sorry for, what happened."

"I forgive you, thank you so much for this gesture."

"Your welcome, so are we, good?"

"Yes Jude, I'd say this makes up for it."

"But you might want to head inside before you push your luck," Shiny said.

"Yeah, all right," Jude said as he decided to do just that. "I'm gonna go see if Shimmer Dress is up."

"I said I forgave him Shiny," Princess Celestia said.

"Yeah," Fleur said. "Shiny has a bit of a problem with stallions, she's gotten better with it though. But I guess it relapsed or something."

"It's not that Fleur," Shiny said. "It's just, there's just something about that guy that makes me want to, to-"

"Lash out irrationally," Ace finished shocking the mares, Most of all Princess Celestia placed her hands on her left breast again.

"Where did you come from?" Fleur asked.

"Blame my parents," Ace answered. Shortly after that Fleur and Shiny decided to go back into the cottage.

"You know there's something about that guy too," Shiny whispered to Fleur.

"What are you doing princess?" Ace asked.

"Oh nothing," she answered as she ate some of the food Jude made for her.

"May I join you?"

"By all means," she answered as she gestured Ace to sit right next to her. And he did just, taking his shoes and socks off to also put his feet in the water. "By the way I forgot to ask this earlier when you were explaining those movies brought over from your world into mine, does that talking raccoon become an Avenger?"

"No, he's with another group."

"Ace has gotten pretty close to Princess Celestia pretty quickly hasn't he?" Fleur asked looking at them from the cottage.

"Yes, do you, think she likes him?"

"You mean like how we like Ozzy? Probably." As the two mares made their way into the kitchen they saw Shimmer Dress having a chat with Ozzy until Jude surprised her by turning her around kissing her right on the lips. Which she was happy to not only give but to return.

"I was so worried when you weren't in bed with me when I woke up," Jude said holding her so close their foreheads were touching. His hands placed behind her back just above her tail pulling her closer for another kiss. "I'm so glad that you didn't run off."

"If I did run off, would you have started chasing after Princess Celestia?" Shimmer teased.

"No," Jude answered as he kissed her surprisingly passionately. "She is very beautiful I won't lie. But even when I kissed her all I could think about was you."

"Really?"

"On my life," Jude answered with sincerity which rather surprised the others, most of all Shiny.

"Uh Shimmy," Fleur said as she was still being held by Jude. "Shiny and I were going to head into the forest and look for some berries to pick."

"Fleur says the forest has all kinds of them, enough to make a couple of pies. Wanna come?"

"Sure!" She said excitedly. "I'd love to," she said as she was about to get free of Jude's embrace but he pulled her into a tighter one when she did. "Uh, just give me a minute." Jude then brought Shimmer Dress into another kiss as he lowered his hands to give her butt a gentle squeeze.

"Oh for crying out loud," Shiny said as she used one of her hands to block her sight. "Wait until you're alone to do that!"

"What? I'm just showing her butt how much I love it," Jude said.

"He does have a point," Ozzy said as he pinched Shiny's butt which made her jump out of the shock of it.

"Et too Ozzy?" Shiny said. Shortly after that, the mares made their way to the forest and even invited Princess Celestia to join them, which she accepted. That left Fancy, Ozzy, and Jude alone in the cottage.

"Have I thanked you for introducing me to that wonderful mare?" Jude asked.

"Only about 100 times," Ozzy answered.

"You're quite fond of her despite knowing her for only, what a moon?" Fancy asked.

"Yes, she's beautiful. In every sense of the word."

"That was surprisingly poetic," Ace said as he seemingly appeared out of nowhere rather than scaring the others.

"How long have you been there?" Ozzy asked.

"Since the butt squeeze," Ace answered as he held a plate of food that he got out of the refrigerator.

"Wow, you really blend into the background," Jude said.

"I get that a lot," Ace said.

"So, Shimmer Dress is beautiful," Ozzy said wanting Jude to continue.

"Yeah, and like I said in every sense of the word. That's why I'm going to ask her to marry me." Jude said surprising the others, even Ace.

"What?" Ozzy asked. "But you've only known her-"

"Long enough," Jude interrupted. "She makes me so happy, Most of the time she's all I can think about. I love her, I love everything about her. Her smile, her incredible eyes, that amazing body that just needed to be said, and how much she cares about others. She told me she took her job not because it's family business, but because it helps couples get closer."

"Really?" Fancy asked.

"Something like that. She kind of considers herself a matchmaker," Jude said. "She even said she'd like to help you with Buttermilk."

"My maid?"

"Yeah," Jude answered Fancy. "She thinks you two have a bit of a connection."

"She needs to work on her match-making skills," Ace said.

"What was that?!" Jude asked a little upset Ace may have insulted Shimmer Dress as he walked over to Ace. But was stopped when Ozzy placed an arm in front of him.

"He's stronger than he looks," Ozzy said. "What do you mena though Ace?"

"I can't speak for Buttermilk, but Fancy won't be interested. His affections lie elsewhere."

"Elsewhere?" Jude asked with Ozzy rather on board with his friend. Fancy on the other hand was quite shocked.

"How could you have possibly figured that out?" Fancy asked.

"Your sister's comment at the train station when she said it was unlikely you'd bring a lady friend."

"Elsewhere," Jude said slower as he and Ozzy figured it out.

"Perhaps I shouldn't have said that," Ace said. "I'm sorry Fancy, sometimes I just say things without thinking."

"It's quite all right, honestly I kind of wanted to tell Ozzy and Jude, but know I don't have to. You're quite the detective Ace."

"Detective? It's more like he's psychic," Jude said. "Hey Ace what number am I thinking of?"

"Jude that-"

"49," Ace answered interrupting Ozzy.

"He's right!" Jude said.

***

The mares returned with berries upon berries mostly thanks to Princess Celestia. "My my you've been busy," Ace said.

"I was motivated by the pies," Princess Celestia replied. "I've got quite the sweet tooth." The entire group then got to work cooking the pies the cottage had a rather large oven but it would still take a while before they would all be cooked. Ace then got out a movie he brought that the group could watch to make time go by faster while putting the pies in the oven and out of the oven. There were a lot of pies but it was a rather long movie.

"The last of the pies should be almost done soon," Fancy said as he got back from the kitchen before sitting down in the living room.

"Good, because this movie is almost over," Ace said as the movie reached the end of its climax when one warrior hit a large purple alien right in his chest with his new hammer.

"YES!" Princess Celestia said as she nearly used the royal Canterlot voice and surprised the others, except Ace. "That's what I'm talking about, no matter how hard they fight in the end the forces of evil will-" Ace stopped her by placing a finger to her lips, not wishing for her to miss the epic line to come.

"You should have gone for the head."

SNAP

Not long after that the movie ended leaving the entire group quite shocked, except Ace who had already seen the movie several times.

"He, he won?" Princess Celestia said.

"Good doesn't always triumph over evil," Ace replied.

"So wait, that's the end?" Fleur asked.

"Well, the end of part one," Ace answered as he got out the sequel. Princess Celestia was about to grab it when Ace suddenly pulled his arm back. "It's three hours long."

"Oh," Princess Celestia said as she looked at the others. "Tomorrow?"

"Yeah," the others agreed. After the movie ended the last of the pies were taken out and Princess Celestia was the first to help herself. The others ate as well then decided to play some of the board games, the last of which was a game of Apologizes between Ace, Princess Celestia, Fleur, and Shiny. Fleur while behind at the start of the game but managed to score the win.

"All right," Fleur said as she raised her arms up. "I win the grand prize!"

"Grand prize?" Ozzy asked who was sitting right next to Fleur. Fleur then sat on Ozzy's lap and wrapped her arms around his head.

"You for the night," Fleur said right before she teleported herself and Ozzy upstairs.

"I guess she doesn't want to play again," Ace said. Upstairs Ozzy found herself in a bed under the sheets with Fleur snug and close to him.

"What's going on Fleur?" Ozzy asked.

"Just paying Shiny back for last night. It's my turn to have you to myself."

"Uh Fleur," Ozzy said.

"Yes Ozzy."

"This is what I told Shiny last night. As much as I'd love to, get closer to you. We'd have to clean up after ourselves afterward and with all the others that are with us, I don't exactly want to explain to them why we're cleaning the sheets."

"I suppose that's a really good point, so you and Shiny didn't have sex?"

"No but we did have some rather intense cuddling," Ozzy answered.

"Oh, I like the sound of that," Fleur said as she used the spell she learned from Shimmer Dress to make her and Ozzy's clothes disappear off them.

***

When morning came once again Fleur woke up and quickly dressed before heading downstairs for some more pie. When the others came down as well she and Fancy agreed now was the right time to go to their parents’ grave. The entire group came along.

"Princess Celestia," Fleur said. "Would you like to pay your respects first?"

"Oh no by all means they're your parents, you and Fancy should go first," she replied.

"I had a feeling you were going to say that, I just wanted to ask," Fleur replied as she sat down sitting on her legs and Fancy Pants toke a knee placing a hand on his sister's shoulder. "Hello, mom and dad."

"Hello mother, hello father," Fancy said. "A lot has changed since the last time that we were here. Mostly for Fleur though."

"Yes, so much, I barely even know where to start. My life was saved by a creature from another world, his name is Ozzy Shore. He became a close friend to me and in no time at all, and eventually he became a great and passionate lover. For me and Shiny." Ozzy couldn't help but blush at Fleur's statement.

"My my," Princess Celestia said as she turned to Ozzy who started to blush more. "No need to be embarrassed Ozzy. You should be happy to have found love."

"Happy, that might be the keyword. He makes Shiny and I so happy, and like I said Shiny and I forming a herd is something I thought I'd never do but it's been a great time sharing him with my best friend. Shiny drove away so many stallions, I didn't think she'd ever get over what happened to her. But Ozzy stuck around."

"Despite me trying to get rid of him," Shiny said as she playfully gave Ozzy a whack with her shoulder. Shiny then sat down and wrapped her arms around Fleur's neck. "My hatred for stallions got so out of hand it almost tore our friendship apart. But it became stronger than ever."

"Oh come now don't give me all of the credit," Ozzy said as he sat down behind Shiny who moved to Fleur's right. "We all helped each other get closer and with our problems," Ozzy continued as he placed an arm around Fleur and Shiny. "When I came to this world I had no idea I was going to fall in love, but I did and I never imagined I could be so happy."

"We feel the same way Ozzy," Fleur and Shiny said at the same time as they pulled him into a caring embrace from each side.

"Oh and I didn't tell you this before," Fleur said. "I got jobs from Vouge, I'm going to be making so much more money. Which means I'll be donating so much more than I could before. I just hope that I'm making you proud."

"I'm sure you are Fleur," Fancy said. "Fleur has surrounded herself in a circle of those that truly care for her. My circle isn't quite as big but I'm trying to expand it as well as keeping the family reputation."

"Well I think I'm sure if they were here they'd be very proud of both of you," Princess Celestia said as she sat down resting her legs like Fleur. "I was very fond of you two, even though our time together wasn't all that long. Having been around as long as I have, I've dealt with this sort of thing so many times. But," Princess Celestia stopped as she was a bit choked up. Ace then placed his hand on her shoulder to calm her down.

"But for some these types of things can be very difficult indeed," Ace said.

"Yes, exactly. Thank you," Princess Celestia said as she held Ace's hand with one of her own. "Have you ever lost someone you cared for Ace?"

"For some these types of things are never easy, but for others they learn that these types of things are just part of life. My favorite movie taught me that among responsibility and our place in the circle of life."

"Oh I love that movie too," Jude said figuring out what movie Ace was talking about. "Did you like the live-action rema-"

"NO NO NO NO NO NO NO!" Ace screamed rather scaring the others. "Sorry," Ace said once again stoic. "Just please don't get me started on that."

"Right," Shimmer Dress said as she and Jude sat down. "You two were always welcoming to me, like an aunt and uncle. I will always be grateful for your kindness, and I think that's all I wanted to say."

"I love you mom, I love you dad," Fleur said.

"Mother father, you'll always be in my heart," Fancy added. The group then stayed at the grave just a little longer and after finishing what else they wanted to say, they got up and made their way back to the cottage.

Author's Note

Wow, what a long one. The final chapter is most likely going to be rather short so maybe that will balance it out. However I'm saying this before finishing the last chapter so we'll just have to wait and see.