Fall of The Rising

by lillytheomegawolf

Rating: mature
Tags: Romance, Princess Luna, Thriller, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Violence, Princess Celestia, Sex, Twilight Sparkle, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Dark, Death, Alternate Universe
Length: 117328

Relations begin to break down between Equestria and the griffon tribes. As war approaches, new foes and alliances emerge. The mane six find themselves in a race against time to uncover dark plans and stop the griffon chief from ending their world.

As the relations between Equestria and the griffin tribes degrades, they find themselves dangerously close to the brink of war. Dark secrets are revealed as new foes and alliances emerge. Lives are cut short while the world permanently changes. Amidst it all, love blossoms like flowers in a wasteland. This love quickly becomes threatened by the likes of Changelings, dragons, and other creatures as they are engulfed in the growing conflict.

The mane six find themselves in a race against time to uncover the truth and stop the griffon chief from unleashing his madness--and thus destroying their entire world. Their lives, families, and homes are at stake as the world plunges into chaos.

Set mid Season 2. 

Published 2012-12-31 22:00:02 UTC
Last updated 2020-12-29 03:26:08 UTC

Chapter Two: Out and About in Ponyville

Central Ponyville.

Two young pegasi stood before the door to Sugarcube Corner. The sweet store looked amazing in the moonlight, surreal almost. They felt slightly apprehensive, after all, who knew what that crazy mare had cooked up for them inside. Fluttershy nuzzled under her strong defender’s wing, quick to relish the sense of security she gathered from the intimate contact.

“Um... Okay. Are you feeling up to this Flutershy?” Dash asked, concerned by how shy her friend was acting.

They weren't even at the party and Fluttershy was relying upon her for strength. This made the bold mare anxious. What if Fluttershy spent her whole time hiding? What if her friend ran away from the party? Not only would that make her look uncool, but it would impact on Fluttershy as well.

Her worries were cut short by the timid pony’s reply. “I-I’m fine Rainbow. They... They'll all be waiting for us. I don’t want to disappoint everypony.”

“Well, all right. As long as you're gonna be okay.”

Fluttershy nuzzled her friend once more. “I’ll be fine as long as I have my guardian with me.”

This made the bold mare grin at her friend. Dash appreciated the sentiment despite how sappy it was. “Okay. Just don’t let anypony else catch you saying that. I don’t want everypony to think that the mighty Rainbow Dash is some kind of softy.”

“I won’t,” Fluttershy replied before she stepped away from her friend, ready.

With that, Dash swung the door open to reveal a packed room. Everypony inside cried out in greeting as the two newcomers entered. Fluttershy stuck to her position by her friend’s side, while Dash boldly stepped forward, her ego boosted by the attention from the small crowd.

“Hello, one and all, Ponyville! I’m Rainbow Dash, your new weather pony!” Rainbow announced, grinning widely. “I’m also the fastest flyer out of Cloudsdale! Maybe...you heard of me?” She winked with the uttermost confidence in herself.

A few greetings came from some of the ponies, some looking on with excitement, others clearly confused, but still welcoming to the two. Especially to the excitable stand-out that was Rainbow Dash.

One pony in particular, a gray pegasus with light blonde hair and bubbles decorating her flank, eagerly darted forward. Her crazy eyes were golden, and strangely, crossed. “Hi, Rainbow Dash! Hi, Fluttershy! I didn’t think I’d see you again! It’s me, Derpy!”

“Ohh....hello, Derpy...” Fluttershy said kindly to the other pegasus. “What a surprise. You live here, too?”

“Uh-huh! I’m a mailmare here in Ponyville!” Derpy nodded, a sloppy grin plastered across her grey muzzle.

“That’s... Great...” Dash did her best to look pleased despite the thought of their mail going missing due to accidents.

Breaking the awkward moment with an explosive blast from her party canon, Pinkie jumped into the air. “PARTY TIME!”

This served to restore the festive mood and several ponies emerged from the crowd to meet and greet the new arrivals. Especially Rainbow Dash, who they thought looked pretty awesome with her rainbow mane. Said mane was definitely unique to Ponyville’s already diverse set of ponies due to showcasing all the colours of the rainbow. Fluttershy more or less remained at her friend’s side, shy as ever and barely speaking to anypony. Then again, not much attention was given toward her. She found this to be a relief as it made the noise of the party bearable.

She was used to standing in the shadow of her friend and felt perfectly fine with it. It didn’t matter that she was always the “shy pony with Rainbow Dash” all her life. As long as she had her friend by her side, that was all she needed.

Rainbow Dash, on the other hoof, loved the attention. Ponyville was, in some ways, smaller than Cloudsdale, yet pretty big in its own way. And in all honesty, she was a bit of a big fish in a small pond, so to speak. She could finally stand out among the other ponies, which was just what she thought would come to be when moving here. It reminded her of the adoring fans she’d had back in Flight School, except a bit different this time from that kind of scenario. That much was certain, and she liked that a bit a better.

But upon noticing how nervous and overwhelmed Fluttershy seemed, her protective instincts kicked in yet again. “Hey, ‘Shy, you want some cupcakes or something? They sure smell good!” Rainbow suggested.

Fluttershy smiled and nodded and gave her a nuzzle, “Sure, Rainbow. I’d love one.”

Despite her embarrassment, Rainbow Dash didn’t force her friend away. She just hoped nopony happened to be watching them at this point in time. Regardless, she smiled at Fluttershy fondly, glad she was at least trying to have a good time.

As if by some unspoken agreement, the pair made their over to one of the refreshment tables. They took in the sight, an assortment of baked goods and other kinds of sweet treats. Cupcakes, muffins, cookies, candied fruit, chocolate, all kinds of sweets that could give an elephant cavities.

Taking one, Rainbow offered it to Fluttershy. With a shy yet delighted giggle, the shy mare smiled brightly and accepted it. Fluttershy leaned on her guardian as they ate, gazing around at the party in progress.

“I think I like our new home. These ponies are awesome!”

“Yes, I’m so glad we found a wonderful place to live.” Fluttershy quietly replied. She found she was beginning to enjoy their quiet moment in the noisy establishment.

Spotting a rather big string of taffy, Dash’s rosy red eyes lit up and a grin invaded her face. “Hey Fluttershy. Wanna try this? It looks awesome.”

Noticing the size of the coils the yellow pegasus tried to shy away, “it... it looks awfully big. I’m not sure I could finish it.”

“No problem. The awesome Rainbow Dash is here to help.” The big smile on the blue face, warmed Fluttershy’s heart.

The bold mare reached for the large bowl and placed it between them. “Ready?”

Fluttershy tentatively nodded back.

“Go!” Rainbow Dash got stuck into the taffy, devouring it as if it were her last meal.

Fluttershy on the other end of the string, chose to take her time and enjoy the treat. Unaware of anything else, Dash continued to munch her way along, thoroughly enjoying herself. Here she was, delighting in a very tasty treat with her best friend. Her sense of the rest of the room begun to disappear and the bold mare closed her eyes for the moment, falling into the wonderful taste. Since it was taffy, and very tricky to chew all the way, it took some time to make their way along the coil, but they continued to endure it nonetheless.

Fluttershy buzzed, the sugary goodness filled her, excited her, as the taste danced through her mouth. She saw the cerise eyes before her close in blissful enjoyment and smiled to herself as she continued to chew along the stringy treat. Two best friends, enjoying their first tastes of what Ponyville’s sweet shop had to offer. It couldn’t get any better than this, right? Everypony seemed to be enjoying themselves, especially Dash. Fluttershy noticed that the taffy was about to run out and slowed down further, happy to savor the taste.

Luminous pink eyes fluttered open as Dash took in the sight of the last coil disappearing. Drawn in by the taste, both ponies inched closer as they worked their way toward each other. Two lips met in the middle as they both moved in for the final bite. Mild surprise filled Dash’s face as Fluttershy fell into the unexpected kiss.

Thankfully, nopony seemed to really notice what was going on. Or if they did see what was happening, nopony spoke about it out loud.

Cheeks on fire, heart alight, and with a mind that felt about ready to explode, Fluttershy stared with wide eyes as their lips met in the middle. She knew somepony had to be seeing this, and that they were in fact sharing a kiss in the middle of a crowded party. Yet, her eyes closed as she gently kissed her companion. She relished the combination of the sweet flavor of the taffy, along with the warm feeling of Rainbow’s lips. The feeling compounded when Rainbow Dash kissed her back and engaged the two in a mutual, brief, but very sweet lip lock.

On any normal day, Fluttershy could do what she had to do in order to suppress her romantic feelings for Rainbow Dash. The longtime crush she'd had on her did surely have moments of taking its toll, but it was usually when they kissed for whatever reason that it would truly arise. She never quite knew why Rainbow was fine with them kissing each other, considering that she had no idea how the cyan mare felt in return. However, the sweet feeling of a genuine effort put into the kiss on Rainbow's part was enough to put her own worries on hiatus for now. At least she liked their kissing.

Rainbow on the other hoof, wondered the same. She had been having strange feelings for her friend for some time now, yet was uncertain over what to do with them. After all, this kind of sappy stuff was not what a mighty, future Wonderbolt was made out of, right? But, no matter what lovey-dovey thoughts she had for her friend, all she could deduce was that because Fluttershy was a very sweet and affectionate pony, even willing to share intimate kisses, it made sense. They were so close, having been best friends for several years, and had gone through a lot together. Perhaps maybe even a few too many intimate moments for two fillies, but Rainbow Dash never found that she minded when it came to Fluttershy. It even made the name calling she used to endure worth it for her best friend’s happiness. Maybe she felt that kissing was a deeper way to express how much she cared? Or Fluttershy just plain enjoyed kissing her, because...it felt nice?

It didn't matter. Neither knew how long it lasted, however brief it was, but they parted all too soon, eyes lost in each other. There may as well have been no ponies around them for they had eyes only for each other.

“Oh my gosh! You two look sooo cute! You know you make such an awesome, cute couple!” Pinkie gushed, effectively throwing cold water on the two mares' close moment.

“What? No!” Dash shot back, defensively as Fluttershy hid behind her own mane in shock and shame.

“I must say, you two dears look absolutely adorable together! How long have you two been dating?” A beautiful pure-white unicorn with deep blue eyes, and a stylish purple coiffure mane approached the flustered two pegasi.

“We aren’t dating!” Rainbow Dash continued to defend her position.

This was made extra difficult by the shy pony who just decided the best solution for her embarrassment was to snuggle her crush for support. Rainbow did the best she could to shrug the odd feelings off. What she needed to do now, was convince two ponies who had invaded their special moment that the kiss was nothing special.

“Well, that kiss certainly looked like something. It’s not every day I get to witness such a genuine show of affection.” The gushing unicorn continued to smile at the pair.

“Party for the new couple!” Cried out the pink party pony as she leapt in the air.

“Um...we...we’re...” Fluttershy spoke up, her voice barely above a whisper.

“Mmm?” The unicorn looked over at the shy pony curiously, “I beg your pardon, dear, whatever did you say? I can’t hear you.”

“I...I said...we...we’re...we’re not...a couple...” Fluttershy squeaked, shrinking back again. “I-I’m sorry...miss...um...”

The unicorn smiled before extending her hoof, “Rarity. And you’re Fluttershy, correct? I overheard you both earlier. It’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance, of course!”

“Yep, She’s Fluttershy. I’m the awesome Rainbow Dash!” Butted in said mare, eager to turn the conversation away from the funny feelings she had inside.

“Of course,” Rarity’s expression faltered slightly, but she turned back to Fluttershy, “Aren’t you just darling! Tell me, who does your mane? It’s absolutely gorgeous! You must tell me your stylist!”

“Um...I...I actually...style it myself... Sometimes Rainbow will do it for me.” Fluttershy admitted as she rubbed her forelegs together nervously.

Rarity’s eyes went wide before she burst into a smile. “Really! That’s astounding! Oh, then you must join me to my next hair appointment, absolutely! Ooh! Have you ever been to a spa before, Fluttershy?”

“Um...no...we never went to a spa before...” Fluttershy shook her head, still highly nervous.

“You seem to be quick to include your companion in your assessment.” Rarity observed thoughtfully, ever the mare for juicy details and fresh gossip.

“Y-yes. We...we do everything together.” The shy yellow pegasus admitted.

“Well then. You and your good friend absolutely must come with me to the spa tomorrow! It will be quite a treat for you, definitely!”

“Sorry, I don’t do that sort of thing.” Dash disdainfully fended off the offer as it were some sort of disease.

A sad look overcame Fluttershy’s face as her ears drooped. While it was far from a big deal, she almost couldn’t help but feel a little saddened by that. After having done everything together pretty much their whole lives since they met, it was almost a bit of a shock to find something new that they wouldn’t try together.

But why did it matter? It was no big deal. Rarity was making a generous offer to try something new, and there was no reason for her not to take it.

“...All right...” Fluttershy said sadly.

“Then it’s settled! Why don’t you come to the Carousel Boutique first thing in the morning!” Rarity beamed, “Do you know where it is?”

“Y-Yes, I think I saw it when we came to town today...” Fluttershy nodded.

“Wonderful! I’ll see you tomorrow at ten! Ta-ta!” Rarity winked at her in a knowing way before she trotted off to speak with a orange earth pony with a well cared for blond mane.

Fluttershy glanced at Dash and her a pleading look.

“Oh all right. But you know I don’t like other ponies touching my mane...or my hooves.” A cyan hoof waved in front of the yellow pony’s face as a rough example.

Fluttershy nuzzled her friend. “But Dashie... You always let me...”

“Yeah, I know. You’re....different...special.” Those words set the shy pegasus’s heart aflutter with joy. Her Rainbow Dash had just called her special! Maybe one day, she might just maybe have a chance. A chance to get with her secret crush.

As a way to fend off the incoming blush, as well as the giddy joy inside, the shy mare instead chose a weak defense mechanism, she knew was due to fail. “I’m just me... just Fluttershy...”

“I know!” Rainbow squeezed her eyes shut, “It’s just...I trust you, okay? I wouldn’t let somepony I didn’t trust touch my hooves or my mane! That’s all.”

Fluttershy gave her friend an affectionate lick on the muzzle. “Thank you.”

“Right. How about we find something to eat. I’m still starving.” Dash huffed, suddenly eager to get away from all the prying eyes that might still happen to be watching. The last thing she needed was the locals seeing her softer, less cool side.

“We just had dinner and a whole coil of taffy, you silly!” Fluttershy giggled with delight.

Rainbow grinned widely. “What can I say? I need a lot of food for this stomach! It takes a lot to keep this future Wonderbolt in the skies.”

Ponyville outskirts, the pegasi’s cottage

An excited Rainbow Dash pulled the covers over herself as she wriggled around in bed, doing her best to get comfortable. Although not as comfy as a cloud, her bed provided an acceptable level of comfort to the athlete. She’d had it ever since they moved into their first apartment, after all. After lying there for a few moments, her mind on fire with all the wonderful events of the day abuzz in her head, she expelled a sigh, trying to go to sleep.

Fluttershy had long since gone to bed, while she herself stayed up to do some night time flying.

A sudden whimper broke the calm of the night. Then another. In alarm, Dash turned toward her friend’s bed. The poor yellow pegasus tossed and turned as if under assault. Suddenly, creamy hooves kicked at the air. Rainbow Dash didn’t want her friend to suffer to whatever nightmare had taken hold of her her, so rushed from her own warm bed over to the other pegasus’ bed.

She squeezed and settled behind Fluttershy, spooning her, as she whispered into her ear in an attempt to relax her.

“Shh, shh...settle down, Fluttershy, it’s all right. You’re just having a really bad dream. But I’m right here to make you have awesome dreams!” Rainbow whispered as she stroked her friend’s side with a hoof to comfort her.

It came to work as Fluttershy gradually stopped whimpering and thrashing in her sleep before she slowly calmed down.

Aquamarine eyes glistened in the night as the recovering pony woke from her sleep. She felt the unexpected warmth and almost jumped out of bed in fright. The only thing preventing her doing so were they cyan hooves wrapped around her, caressing her, trying to calm her beating heart.

“Fluttershy, Fluttershy! Calm down, it’s okay, it’s me!” Rainbow whispered loudly.

Managing to roll over onto her side, Fluttershy was met with the worried cerise eyes of her best friend, her form bathed in moonlight from the nearby window. She breathed heavily, gradually calming herself. She realized she had just woken from a bad dream, and that Rainbow was comforting her. Heat flooded her system. A warm giddy heat that caused her to blush at how close she found herself to the pony of her dreams. She quivered slightly, from both fear of her nightmare and the close physical contact she was locked in.

“I... Oh... Sorry...I...had a bad dream...”

“...Oh...” The cyan speedster nuzzled her friend, “Don’t worry, ‘Shy I’ll protect you, no mater what. Besides, it was just a dream.” Her confident tone helped calm the still shaken pony in her embrace.

Trembling a bit, Fluttershy nodded as she snuggled into Rainbow’s warmth, as she could remember doing many times when they were fillies, and even on occasion in the recent years with them living together in the apartment. It wasn’t the first time they shared a bed together because she was scared or really upset about something. She exhaled, laying her head against Dash’s warm chest, feeling her gentle heartbeat. The strong well measured beats put her system at ease.

“Rainbow.... I’m so glad you’re here with me...” Fluttershy smiled, “I don’t know what I’d do without you...I’m so sorry you have to do this so much... I wish I was brave like you.”

“Nonsense... Nopony else I know could stare down a fully grown bear.” The big cheesy grin banished all remaining fears and caused them both to smile at the memory.

Fluttershy’s cheeks burned softly. “That was different! I couldn't let some mean old bear hurt you!”

Chuckling, Dash stroked her friend’s mane gently, “Yeah, but you still overcame your fears and stood up to it to help me. Isn’t that what they say bravery is? Going for it despite that you’re scared?”

Blinking her eyes, Fluttershy blushed again, “Um...well...yes...”

Dash grinned at her friend as she ruffled her mane affectionately. “Well then, my brave filly. I guess that makes you braver than me. And I’m awesome!”

Dash shifted her attention to Fluttershys belly and begun ticking her friend. The normally quiet pony broke out in a series of adorable giggles under the friendly assault.

“Dash! Stop it!” She cried as she squirmed.

The bold mare grinned at her companion. “Who’s awesome?”

Her friend’s squeals grew louder with each tickle, but she managed to gasp out, “Y-You! You’re...you’re awesome!”

“That’s right! Who’s awesome? Who’s the fastest flyer in Equestria?”

“You are!” Fluttershy continued to wriggle as laughter escaped her.

Laughing herself, Dash stopped the tickles and instead rolled on top of Fluttershy, nuzzling her nose, “You got it, Flutters. Sweet dreams.” The cyan mare made a move, about to leave the bed, only to find a pair of forelegs wrapped around her.

“Please don’t go,” Fluttershy whispered, looking up at her with big pleading eyes.

“Fluttershy, I’ll just be in my bed less than ten feet away from you. Don’t worry,” Dash assured her.

“...Please? I want to sleep with you tonight... It...still is our first night in a new house and I feel...well...kind of nervous...please stay with me?”

“Okay then.” Dash relaxed back down into bed. “I guess you’ve had a just nightmare and need somepony twenty percent cooler for support, right?” She grinned across at her shy friend.

In response, Fluttershy nuzzled her defender. Warm fuzzies exploded in the night as the yellow mare buried herself in her companions warm cyan coat. Dash allowed her companion to get cuddly with her. As long as no pony else saw, she was okay with it despite how odd it felt. They lay there for a moment with only the gentle beating of their hearts in the still of the night. Fluttershy reached up and gave her rainbow maned friend a thank you lick.

“I thought we were supposed to be going to sleep.” Dash coyly asked.

Fltutershy didn’t feel like sleeping anymore. She felt like... felt like...she wasn’t sure, but she wanted to just stay awake, in the company of her dearest friend. Snuggling. Yes, she loved their snuggles. That sounded good to her.

“I don’t want to sleep now,” Fluttershy giggled, nuzzling Dash’s nose, “I want to stay here with you.”

“Is that right?” Smirked the cyan pegasus, towering over her playfully.

Giggling, the shy mare nodded, “Hee...yes...”

“Well I’m sure that can be arranged.” A pile of cyan plush fell upon the yellow pegasus below and giggles exploded from both parties as they rolled around in bed together.

The invigorating laughter removed all fear from Fluttershy’s mind and she began an uncoordinated assault upon the mare she was locked in a bubble of joy with. When they came to a stop, the two young mares found themselves wrapped up in the bed sheets together, coats ruffled, manes a mess and with wild grins plastered across their faces as they stared into each others shining eyes.

A chuckle escaped Rainbow Dash as she lay her forehead against Fluttershy’s, just taking her all in. Her mind then wandered to earlier, during the party, when they’d gotten into the taffy coil...

“Flutters...” She whispered, leaning in slowly.

A tiny gasp escaped Fluttershy, but she leaned up toward her as well, meeting her halfway.

Their lips met, gently engaging in a soft kiss.

The kiss slowly gained passion and Dash ran a hoof experimentally along Flutershy’s back and down her side. The creamy yellow pegasus arched her back in surprise, feeling the tingles rush through her. She traveled her hooves down to Dash’s flank, holding her tighter, before darting back up, as if afraid of touching her there.

It was, however, sending excitable tingles throughout her body, which coiled along within her stomach in an intense pool of heat. Fluttershy elicited a little moan, bringing her forelegs around Dash’s shoulders.

Fluttershy allowed her hooves to travel down her friends back, delicately teasing the powerful pinions, enjoying the feeling of the awaking wings which showcased the cyan mare’s excitement. Fluttershy felt her own wings flutter as the bold pony reciprocated.

After a few more moments, their movements slowed as they then settled against each other, just kissing gently. Their lips met and parted a few times in kiss after kiss, with their hooves since stilling in their ministrations.

For these brief moments, when their lips were interlocked in a warm kiss, could both pegasi have just one moment. Just one moment to pretend, that maybe, they were in love with each other. Even if, upon the parting of their kiss, would reality set in to remind them of what was true. Painful and sad as the results could be, it didn't stop the sweet moments from being enjoyed.

They had no idea what truly drove the other to engage in such passionate kisses. But they did know it was something special that they both shared.

The two ponies broke away, their breathing labored. Fluttershy felt her radiant smile mirrored in the pretty cyan face above her. Rainbow chuckled, stroking the soft pink mane of her companion, earning giggles in response.

For some time, they simply gazed at each other, eyes locked. With the luminous glow of the moonlight streaming in through the window, both ponies lay there, content in it’s soft glow. Giggles came from them both as they nuzzled each other's noses. The warmth of each other's bodies permeated between them and the cooling breeze from the open window added to the moderate temperature.

Peaceful. So peaceful, so comfortable.

Fluttershy felt herself falling in love all over again.

“Rainbow...”

“Yeah?”

The creamy yellow pegasus didn't respond, but she did boldly lean up to touch their lips in another kiss. Happy to oblige, Dash kissed her back and held closer to the mare beneath her. Moans came from Fluttershy's throat, a reaction that caused Rainbow's wings to rise. The idea of her best friend laying beneath her, moaning in pleasure as she...

Trying to fight back dirty thoughts, which was easier said than done at this very moment, the daredevil focused on their kiss. Fluttershy was always so gentle and sweet with her kisses, it was impossible for Rainbow not to melt and feel all tingly from the sweetness of it. A kiss of the perfect reflection of the shy mare. And she loved every second of it. Fluttershy's kisses were, by far, the greatest thing ever to touch her lips.

Parting, the two giggled once more as their glowing smiles grew.

“Wow. You are amazing, Fluttershy.” Dash continued to beam from ear to ear at the pony in her hooves.

Fluttershy unleashed excited giggles as she nuzzled into the messy rainbow mane belonging to her best friend. “You’re amazing too...Dashie...”

“Awwww.” Rainbow chuckled. She kissed the forehead of the sweet pegasus below and then rolled off of her. She came up behind the creamy yellow pegasus, spooning her once more, “Let’s go to sleep. We’ve got a lot of unpacking and things to do tomorrow, anyway.”

“Mmmm...” Fluttershy nodded, her eyelids drooped at the comforting position they shared. “Goodnight, my Rainbow...” With the head of the moment fading, the pretty yellow pegasus felt like she could finally drift off into a good nights sleep.

“Night, Flutters.” Dash allowed the call of sleep to summon her too as she retained her grip on her best friend.

Dash awoke to see nothing but pink. The bedmane from her best friend filled her vision. She blinked herself awake then ran a hoof along her muzzle to clear the intruding wall of colour from her vision. Her hoof grazed the sleeping mare who was cuddled up to her causing the shy pony to mumble in her sleep and nuzzle her, tightening her grip.

“Dashie...” Fluttershy mumbled sleepily, nuzzling her neck.

‘Oh great...’ Dash thought, realizing she was just about stuck. Not only was Fluttershy’s grip on her not allowing her to get up, but, she actually didn’t even want to move. ‘She’s not going to start saying sappy friend stuff in her sleep, is she?’

Sure enough the quiet yellow pegasus whispered, “So cuddly...mmm...so warm and cozy, my dear... my pretty rainbow...”

Fluttershy nuzzled deeper into her friends rainbow mane. With burning cheeks, Dash looked away, wondering what to do. She was used to Fluttershy saying sweet things, but she wondered....nah. Either way, she wanted to get up and fly! But she also couldn’t leave Fluttershy’s comfy bed or her strong embrace.

Much to the horror of the trapped pony, the yellow mare continued her sleep talking. “You amazing pony...”

Unable to take it anymore, Dash licked Fluttershy’s nose causing the sleeping mare to wrinkle up her face. Rainbow repeated her action, hoping to awaken the sleep snuggling pony. Once more, the action caused Fluttershy furrow her brow and stir a little bit, but she didn’t wake up.

“Mmm....Rainbow my dear...c’mere...” Cooed the sleeping pony as she rubbed Dash’s side in a sleepy manner with her hoof.

Where’s this coming from? Dash wondered in shock. She would have fallen out of the bed in shock had it not been for the vice grip she was still trapped in.

“Fluttershy, please wake up.” She nose bumped her friend, giving her an accompanying lick on the muzzle. “Come on.”

“Mmm...” Fluttershy stirred again, sounding a little distraught. She then held Rainbow Dash tighter, even going so far as rolling over and-

“Owwwwww!!!” Came the timid mare’s pained squeal.

Rainbow Dash gazed down at her companion in shock as Fluttershy rudely emerged from her slumber. In a flash, she realized she had her friend pinned and hurriedly released the pony before she settled down a safe distance away.

“Ow...ow...” Whimpered Fluttershy as she rose slowly on her forelegs, she cringed at the pain from the impact as it slowly faded away to a dull thumping. It wasn’t the first time it happened in her life, but it was painful nonetheless. “Oooh...ow....”

She felt like somepony had landed on her too. Said pony reached out a helping hoof to assist her rise and Fluttershy allowed herself to be lifted up onto her hooves. She hung on for a few moments, happy to drift weightless and free.

“Are you going to stand or do I have to hold you all day?” The annoyed voice of Rainbow Dash rang out and snapped the shy mare back to reality.

Immediately, Fluttershy darted away in shame, her ears drooped and gaze downcast. How could she be so selfish and inconvenience her friend like that? She felt stung, but tried to calm herself. Right now she had to wonder why in the world she fell out of bed, and what had just happened. Something wasn’t right, but she just couldn’t place her hoof on it.

“...Sorry....” She uttered shamefully.

“Hey...” The soft voice of her best friend broke the shameful silence.

A cyan hoof lifted the ashamed pony’s chin up. Fluttershy’s wings flew up in surprise as her friend planted a kiss right on her cheek. Her cheeks burned, her eyes drifting away in shyness. Just like in her...dream?

“Don’t worry about it, Flutters,” Rainbow chuckled. The bold pegasus grinned as she gently released her, “Sorry you had to fall like that! You just kinda grabbed me in your sleep and-”

“G-G-Grabbed you?” Fluttershy cut her off, her eyes wide, “But...why would I grab you? How did I grab you?”

Brow furrowing slightly, Dash stared at her, “Um...duh, in your sleep, like I just said.”

“Yes, but...how?”

“Fluttershy, hello? Last night? You had a bad dream and I got into bed with you, since you didn’t want me to leave. Remember?”

“....I...you....” Fluttershy’s cheeks burned bright red. ‘Last night wasn’t a dream!?!?!?’

Rainbow Dash chuckled at her friend's bright complexion.

“Yep. You seemed to be enjoying yourself quite a lot too. It reminded me how nice you are to sleep with.”

“O-Oh....” Fluttershy blushed heavily, looking down shyly.

With further laughter, the cyan pegasus lifted her friend’s chin to gaze into her eyes. “You have beautiful eyes...”

A look of mild panic crossed Fluttershy’s face.

“What? You do.” The bold mare leaned in and gently licked her friend’s muzzle.

Rainbow pulled away, feeling as hot as Fluttershy’s blush looked, and with a grin like a crazy filly.

“Umm....!!!” Fluttershy looked at the time, she gasped in mild horror. It was nine thirty. “Oh no! We’re going to be late! We have to go!”

She hurried out of the room to get to the bathroom.

With a receding grin, Dash sighed. Her ears and wings drooped a bit sadly. That was a little disheartening, not to mention disappointing. Did Fluttershy really feel that nervous and panicked? What had happened to last night? It wasn’t so much the kissing itself, though their kisses were awesome, but the entire principle of the situation. She couldn’t help but feel a little down about it.

With the soft clop-clop of hoofsteps, Fluttershy re-entered the room, kissed Rainbow on the cheek before she trotted back out again, mumbling an apology as she did so.

Cyan wings shot up and Dash’s grin returned in an instant. Her confident feeling returned once more and the rainbow-maned mare strutted out after companion, eager to face the day.

Ponyville, just outside Carousel Boutique.

“Here it is... this must be the Carousel Boutique...” Fluttershy announced as she admired the highly fancy architecture. “It’s beautiful!”

“Yea...” The rainbow maned daredevil felt bored already as she stood next to her excited friend.

The two mares entered the store, where they saw Rarity applying a dark blue fanciful dress encrusted with gems all over the neck and waistline onto a mannequin. A little bell rang, above the door as it opened, catching the unicorn’s attention.

“Ah, Fluttershy, darling! Rainbow Dash! How wonderful to see you two again!” Rarity greeted cheerfully, going over to them. “Shall we get going, then?”

“Oh, yes!” Fluttershy nodded, beaming, “I can’t wait to try out going to a spa! I’d always wanted to, but...we could never afford it...”

“Awww...” Rarity said sadly with sympathy, “I know exactly how you feel, darling. Back when I first moved out of my parents’ home, I too had very little money to work with! I could not afford such wondrous things as I can now! But as I worked hard on my designs and my second job, I managed to come up with enough to not only buy and remodel this shop, but to prosper as well!”

“Wow...” Fluttershy smiled, nodding, “That’s quite a story, Rarity...”

Rainbow Dash simply rolled her eyes. Suddenly an amusing idea popped into her head and she slinked up to her fellow pegasus and draped a wing over her. Sure enough, Fluttershy blushed and let out a little squeak.

“Isn’t it, though?” The unicorn giggled, “Oh, but listen to me! Here we are standing around like fools! Come come, you two! We must depart!”

The three of them exited the store, with Rarity locking up behind them, before they set off into town.

Much to the embarrassment of Fluttershy, Dash kept her strong protective wing about her best friend. Fluttershy did love the contact, to be sure, but she didn’t need protection right now. Nopony was bothering them, she wasn’t scared, and Rarity was a very nice, kind, sociable and interesting pony, she was a friend. What was the problem? What could her bold friend be playing at?

“Rainbow! What are you doing?” She furiously whispered to her overprotective friend.

The cyan mare grinned back, fake sincerity written all over her muzzle. “Nothing...”

“...All right, then,” Fluttershy sighed and turned back to Rarity.

“Tell me dear, how did you two end up here in Ponyville?” Rarity queried.

“Oh! Well, we’re from Cloudsdale,” Fluttershy explained, smiling, “and we were living in an apartment there. Before we moved, I had finished school, Rainbow had a new job lined up here as a weather pony, and I had applied to be a vet assistant at the clinic here in Ponyville. It was because...not only did the rent in our apartment building...well, inflate... but the owner of the apartment we rented was being sold, so we had to move to a cheaper place.”

“Ah! How interesting,” the unicorn giggled, “and wherever did you choose to live now?”

“Well, we found a-” Fluttershy was cut off when she felt a cheeky nuzzle from her friend, “Rainbow!!”

The prankster giggled to herself, pleased at the change of attention. “Yes?”

Fluttershy gave her a look of annoyance, turning back to her newest friend. “We-we moved into the cottage by the Everfree Forest.”

A look of surprise crossed the alabaster mares face. “Well I never would have imagined a mare like you choosing to live near that ghastly place!”

“W-well... its not so bad...”

“Yeah! Fluttershy once stared down an angry bear! Spooky woods are nothing.” Dash’s boasting added a fresh blush to her shy friend’s light cheeks.

“Stared down a bear?!” Rarity exclaimed, wide-eyed. “My goodness! How brave of you, Fluttershy!”

Looking away, Fluttershy mumbled sheepishly, “W-Well...I...um...well I...”

“She’s almost as awesome as me.” The daredevil couldn’t help but add as she swept a hoof over her flushed companions shoulders.

“A barbaric ruffian for a pegasus?” Rarity stated dryly, then turned back to Fluttershy, “Well my dear, I must say that it must have taken you a great deal of courage to have accomplished such a thing!”

“It was...nothing really...” Fluttershy admitted softly, her cheeks still heated.

“Oh, now don’t be modest, darling!” Laughed the fashionista unicorn, “I for one must say that while it may indeed be... foolish to try to stand up to something much bigger and more dangerous than yourself, it is indeed admirable that you can overcome your fears!”

“I... I was only doing it... t-to save my Dash.”

Rarity raised an eyebrow, quiet for a moment, eyeing the protective cyan wing, then smiled, “I see.”

Despite being mentioned, Dash realized that she was, yet again, out of the loop. Fluttershy was getting along with this snooty, nose-high unicorn? How? It didn’t make sense! And for that matter, she never got annoyed at her attempts for attention, which admittedly, deterred her a little. Why was that? Why was Fluttershy so willing to hang out with a posh pony like Rarity?

Rainbow Dash pulled her wing back in temporary defeat. The cheeky prankster glanced around to check for anypony who might happen to be watching. Happy that no pony would notice her perhaps ‘uncool’ antics, a grin appeared on her muzzle. She allowed the pair to continue their unimportant banter as she sidled up alongside Fluttershy, getting right into position to-

“Rainbow!” Fluttershy giggled as the bold pegasus delicately nibbled her ear.

“Now, really! Rainbow Dash, do you mind?!” Rarity scolded. “Can’t you keep such gestures to a more private time?!” Despite her tone, there was a spark of interest in her eyes.

“Why? What are you going to do about it?” Rainbow Dash shot back with a smirk upon her face that told the fashion artist who was boss.

“Hmpf. Ruffian ponies... all the same...” Rarity stopped. “Anyway... here we are.”

Excitement filled Fluttershy’s eyes while Dash’s filled with an equal amount of boredom in preparation for what was about to come.

With the use of her magic, Rarity held the door open for the two pegasi who entered, side by side. Fluttershy took in the entrance lobby with interest, feeling very relaxed and comfortable already, while Rainbow took everything in with great disdain.

“Wow! This is lovely!” Fluttershy beamed.

“Indeed it is!” Rarity giggled, and looked over to Aloe, “Hello, Aloe! The usual, please! And be sure to throw it in for my two new friends, as well! ...Especially her...she could use some special spa treatment,” she added, gesturing to Dash.

“Hey!” The cyan pegasus protested.

Before anypony could blink, the two spa ponies, by the names of Aloe and Lotus, whisked the trio away for pampering. It all happened so fast, because the next thing they knew, they were in robes, towels on their heads wrapping their manes up, and in bathrobes, no less. They were placed into a sauna, with Lotus pouring steaming water over some hot rocks with a soup ladle.

Due to not being used to the intense heat, it took some time for Rainbow to get her breathing under control. It felt as if she were dehydrating, and fast.

Deciding to make the best of a bad situation, Rainbow Dash wrapped a foreleg grumpily up against Fluttershy, slowly circling her back. She knew that such actions would be the easiest way to get some kind of response out of either of her two companions without annoying Fluttershy.

With a shy smile, the yellow mare snuggled right back. It was clear that her companion really didn’t want to be here at all, and could only find solace in her. The fact she was actually trying meant the world to her. She felt there was no reason to ignore her... affectionate gestures.

“What do you think so far?” Rarity queried.

“It’s amazing! I’ve never been in a sauna like this before!” Fluttershy beamed from within the firm grasp of her best friend.

“I’ve seen better.” Rainbow Dash continued to devote all her attention toward the yellow pony beside her.

“That’s wonderful to hear, darling.” Rarity replied to the yellow pegasus, ignoring her insolent companion.

“D-do you come here often?” Fluttershy quietly queried.

Delighted to be on a good topic Rarity became rather animated. “Well... I like to come here at least once a week. If you like, we could do this every week together! Wouldn’t that be marvelous, Fluttershy?”

The mare in question nodded, abuzz with both the joy of getting on well with her new interesting friend as well as the close attention from her longtime companion. This entire little spa trip was turning out to be a lot better than she expected. “That would be great, Rarity! I'd love it!”

“Count me out,” Dash muttered, breaking the moment.

“But...” Fluttershy protested, her smile fading. She had wanted so much to share this with both of them. But, then again, she couldn’t exactly force her crush to do something she clearly didn’t desire to do at all. Sighing, the creamy yellow pegasus nodded, “Um... All right, Rainbow. I understand. If this really isn’t something you want to do with us, then that’s okay. You don’t have to do something you don’t want to for my sake.”

“You really know how to twist my wing, don’t you, ‘Shy.” The affectionate yet annoyed gaze from Dash met her friends aquamarine eyes. “I’ll try. As long as no pony tries to mess with my mane.”

“But...! Rainbow no, I wasn’t trying to...” Fluttershy squeaked, looking unsure, “Oh...it’s sweet of you to offer, it is...but you don’t have to if you don’t want to...”

In response, Rainbow Dash ran a comforting hoof down her friends back, cutting Fluttershy off.

“We’ll see, okay? If this time goes badly... I’m not coming back to this... place.”

Fluttershy nodded meekly. She turned back to Rarity, who was observing them with curious and keen eyes, smiled, “Well, Rarity, it sounds good.”

“Wonderful! Now then, what was I to say? Ah yes, well, as I mentioned earlier, I am indeed a designer! You saw that dress when you came in, did you not?”

“Oh, we did. It was beautiful! You made it yourself?”

“Indeed I did, darling! I make all of my dresses and I run quite modestly successful fashion lines! Why, I will even take commissions! If you ever are in need of a dress, do let me know!”

“Really? Well, gosh, Rarity! That’s wonderful! I... well, I am adept with sewing, but designing isn’t much of my forte. Well... Um... if you wouldn’t mind... I’ll... take you up on that once I have some extra money...”

Rarity waved her hoof dismissively. “Don’t you mind that. I think I can feel an idea coming for the most wonderful dress for you. I could make you one too if you like Rainbow Dash?”

“Nah. Dresses aren't really my thing. They get in the way while I’m trying to pull off cool tricks.” Replied the mare in question as she waved Rarity off with a cyan hoof.

Fluttershy on the other hoof stared at the queen of fashion. “Y-you’re offering to make me... a dress? For free?”

“Of course, darling. Why, I just love a good challenge when it comes to clothing!”

“But... but... I can’t accept that!”

“Nonsense, dear! I insist. It would be my pleasure to make a lovely dress for you!” Rarity waved it off, beaming.

“But-” Once more the quiet pony tried to protest.

“No buts!” Rarity cut her off. “I have made up my mind, darling!”

Giving up, Fluttershy mumbled a soft “okay” before she settled back along the bench.

“Now then,” Rarity said, changing the topic, “Why don’t we move on to the next bit of our treatment? We shall get facials and a hooficure!”

“Oooooohhh!” Fluttershy smiled, feeling better from before. “I’ve never had a hooficure or a facial before! I’ve always wanted to try them!”

“You mean we get to splatter our face with green mud? Neat!” Dash grinned. She wasn’t too keen on the hooficure idea, though.

“Well I guess that's one way you could put it.” Rarity muttered as she made her way out.

The three mares were taken to another room, where they were placed upon flat chairs and cushions. Aloe and Lotus then applied the facial mask to their faces, along with cucumber slices over their eyes.

“Wow! Mud in our faces and food, too? This is pretty cool!” Rainbow grinned, eating one of the slices.

“Rainbow Dash! They’re not for eating!” Rarity scolded, “The cucumbers go over your eyes in order to prevent puffiness!”

“Oh...don’t mind it, Rarity...” Fluttershy said softly.

Rarity huffed, turning back to Fluttershy, despite being unable to see her, “Regardless, dear, she needs to mind her manners.”

“Hey! I’m right here!” Rainbow Dash grumbled.

Aloe and Lotus returned with a little trolley. It bore small basins, a horn file, and three hoof files along with various little jars of lotions and cream. Rarity looked pleased, Fluttershy excited and curious, however Rainbow Dash looked as if she were about to come under attack. She suddenly realized what this would mean.

Lotus took the horn file, proceeding to work on carefully filing Rarity’s horn. Fluttershy placed her hooves into the basin of the warm, tingling liquid solution. She pulled them out a few moments later, holding them out, before Aloe went to work on giving her a hooficure.

When Lotus approached Dash with the file in her mouth, the cyan pegasus gulped. She didn’t like anypony touching her hooves. But for Fluttershy, she decided to try it. Nervously, she held one hoof out, while the tip of the file grazed it slightly.

“YAGH! No no no! Don’t touch my hooves! That’s it! I’m outta here!” Dash leapt up, and darted out the open window faster than anypony could blink.

“Rainbow-!” Fluttershy cried out to the slowly fading spectrum her friend had left behind. She reached out toward the window in vain. Her eyes watered, a tear escaped along her facial-covered face and her lips quivered.

“There there, dear.” Rarity did her best to offer a comforting hoof as the yellow pony continued to stare out the window after her friend.

“Sh-she never abandons me...” The distressed animal caretaker complained, her gaze still on the empty sky.

“I take it she’s very loyal to you, isn’t she?” Rarity said gently, rubbing Fluttershy’s back.

With small slow nods, Fluttershy glanced at the unicorn tearfully, “Yes... She’s my best friend...and she’s always been a very loyal pony. I just...well I...I knew she didn’t want to be here...I just...didn’t think this would happen... I mean, I know she doesn’t like anypony touching her hooves...but I...well I should have seen this coming, shouldn't I?”

Thinking for a moment, the fashionista sighed and shrugged her shoulders. “I can’t tell you that for sure, you know her better than I do. I have to say it was incredibly rude of her to just leave like that, especially with how it makes you feel. Pig headed pegasus... Well, I suppose I can’t blame her entirely. I would feel this way if my dear friend from Sweet Apple Acres had dragged me to do farm work! Regardless, dear, you shall have to go and talk to her after this is over.”

“....Okay.” Fluttershy shrank away, it was clear she didn’t want to do any such thing.

“I’m serious, darling. What she did was rude and it upset you. You must tell her that, otherwise, she will never learn.” Insisted Rarity.

Sniffling, the tearful pegasus nodded, “Okay, Rarity...thank you.”

“You’re welcome, dear,” Rarity smiled, using her magic to levitate a handkerchief to wipe Fluttershy’s eyes, “I must say...she is rather possessive of you.”

“...Possessive? No she isn’t, that’s silly.”

“I’m serious, darling, I could tell with the way she looks at you, and especially earlier on our way here. Now, I take it you two spend a lot of time together?”

Fluttershy nodded, her cheeks going pink, “Yes. We’re very, very close. Fillyhood friends. ...Back in Cloudsdale...when we went to Flight School...we were social outcasts. I was always very shy and such a weak flyer. Rainbow Dash was...well, a bit of a prankster, and always had a reputation for being too fast, not following the rules and taking naps in class. Everypony made fun of us, for different reasons, and called us names. We stuck together and were...each other’s only friends...”

“I see,” Rarity nodded, looking thoughtful. “I can see why she may be protective or possessive of you, dear. And why losing out on sharing something with her would sadden you.”

“As I said, we did everything together... even... snuggling...” Fluttershy smiled a slightly sad, nostalgic smile. “And she means so much to me. We have had our tough moments and she can be brash and aggressive, even with me... but... it’s okay. I can handle it. I can handle her.”

“You surely put up with a lot, Fluttershy!”

“I guess I do... but it’s rewarding, because she really is a great pony. A very loyal friend, and she can be very sweet. Sometimes when I’m sad, she gives me a little treat I like just to cheer me up. She always remembers my birthday and makes it special with surprising me, she’s there when I need somepony to talk to, she lets me cry and would also tell me when I’m crying over something stupid, and... well, there’s so much.” They shy pegasus’s muzzle was becoming rather red once again as thoughts of just how nice her best friend was continued to flood her mind.

Rarity smiled, she let go of the timid mare and returned to her spot. “That’s lovely, dear. I suppose I truly did misjudge her a lot. But the affection I had seen between you two last night even today was just adorable. You must be very comfortable with that to be able to exude that kind of sweetness with one another!”

“N-Not so much... it’s kind of embarrassing... doing that in public... and yet... sometimes I just don’t mind...” Fluttershy giggled to hide the embarrassment she felt here with her new friend.

“And despite all that she is not your special somepony?” The alabaster mare leaned closer, eager for answers.

“Oh no!” The pegasus’s yellow cheeks darkened further and she began to feel nervous.

“Well. What would you do if she asked you to be her special somepony?”

Fluttershy’s eyes went as wide as dinner plates and a tiny squeak escaped her. She blushed, heavily, and looked around the room in uncertainty, biting her lip. Yet, after a few moments, she softly managed a reply, “...I’d say... yes.”

Rarity’s brow rose as she smiled a little more. It was all that was needed to be said about how the shy pony was feeling. “Is that right, dear?”

A very bashful nod was the forthcoming reply.

“Well, Fluttershy, then why don’t you ask her?”

“What? No! I could never do that...”

“Why not?” The designer unicorn queried, tilting her head, “You both seem to be open to the idea, so why not ask her?”

“Because....well...um....there’s something about that...” Fluttershy murmured, her ears drooping. “During Flight School, and even after we moved in together... Rainbow...always...was...um...subject to.....being called derogatory terms for a female who likes mares.”

“So...” Rarity went on, turning serious for a moment, “Part of why you’re afraid of such a thing is because you feel that she will be saddened or angered about you assuming she likes mares because of the abuse she has faced of that in the past?”

Hidden behind her wall of shy, Fluttershy nodded.

Noticing the deteriorating state of the timid mare, Rarity softened, reaching over and giving her a calming rub on her back. “It’s okay Fluttershy. How about we try again one day when you are more comfortable with this?”

The mare in hiding’s face slowly lit up. “Okay.”

“Just remember dear, don’t wait too long or somepony else might get in first.”

Fluttershy’s joy was replace by alarm. Her friend would never do that would she? But then again, it wasn’t as if she would have the right to be upset or jealous. Rainbow Dash was allowed to live her own life and make her own decisions. If she ever wanted to get together with somepony, mare or stallion, Fluttershy would feel terrible about holding her back from her happiness just because she was jealous and wanted her friend to herself. But she couldn’t have her cake and eat it too. Not unless she...

No. She couldn’t do that to her. Not like this. Yet still, the thought of it plagued her mind and ate at her gut painfully. She just hoped, maybe, she could get some closure about this issue before it was too late.

But for now, she was determined to do her best to enjoy what was left of the spa date with Rarity. Even if the disappointment of her best friend’s departure still remained. Fluttershy decided she had to put Rainbow Dash out of her mind if she were to truly enjoy herself here with her new friend.

Chapter Three: New Friends

Chapter Three: Of Bunnies and Ponies.

Ponyville outskirts, the pegasi’s cottage.

Later that afternoon, Fluttershy arrived home after she had lunch with Rarity. Despite the absence of her best friend, she’d wound up really enjoying the spa treatment. She even promised her new friend that she would love to go again, maybe even make it a weekly routine. Overall, she was glad to make a new friend and to find a new activity she liked to partake in.

Upon her arrival home, she found the cottage empty, aside from the boxes and stuff that still needed to be packed and put away. There was a note taped to the stairwell railing, which she read,

Went to work early after I left, so I won’t be home until about five or so. Don’t start without me!

~RD

Fluttershy nodded to the note, as if it could respond, then placed it aside. She glanced at the clock, showing it to be 1:43. With a resigned sigh, the creamy yellow mare decided to keep on unpacking boxes to pass the time until her companion came home.

The rest of the day dragged by as Fluttershy did her best to unpack. Without her bold friend around to liven things up she quickly found herself bored with the dull task.

Sighing, the yellow mare glanced around the messy room, looking for something else to do. But what could she do? Her glazed blue eyes passed the window, taking in the view outside. Two tiny blobs caught her eye. The lead creature was a tiny white rabbit, the larger, grey and white creature chasing it was closing in fast. Fluttershy gasped in shock and took off at a speed normally reserved for Rainbow Dash.

The yellow pegasus swept the small bunny up in her hooves, protecting it like a mother protects her young. “Bad mister raccoon. How dare you chase a poor little defenseless bunny.”

Faced with the glare of the animal expert, the raccoon froze, no creature had ever talked to him like this before. The cheeky bunny peeked out from behind his protectors hoof and poked his tongue out, teasing the petrified creature before him.

“Now I want you to say sorry to this poor little bunny. Go on.”

The raccoon looked all the more guilty before he nickered lightly toward the bunny, twiddling his claws in a nervous manner. The cheeky critter who was under the pony’s protection gave him a cheeky look back. This broke the raccoon’s guilt, turning it back into anger toward the small fuzzy herbivore.

Noticing the raccoon’s change Fluttershy butted in again. “Now that’s not how you say sorry.”

The angered creature attempted to storm off only to find his path blocked by yellow hoof. “You’re not going anywhere until you apologize properly.”

In her hold, the bunny blew a raspberry as if to taunt the creature that had once been chasing it. After exchanging a quick death glare, the raccoon faked his remorse for the benefit of his freedom. While the creature below did its best to look sorry, Angel was busy trying not to roll off his ride as he suffered a fit of laughter.

Fluttershy lifted her hoof, glad that both creatures appeared to finally be on good terms with one another then turned to the gleeful bunny in her hooves.

“Now you run along you little angel.” She attempted to shoo the rascal away but he clung to her coat and gave her a pitiful look. “What’s wrong? You don’t want to go? Are you hurt? Sick? I am training to be a Veterinarian... I can help you!” Despite her alerted and caring state, her voice was surprisingly loud for a pony so quiet.

The small creature under her protection eagerly motioned to his mouth in the global language that clearly stated, I’m hungry, feed me.

Fluttershy felt a little put off that bunny was so quick to become demanding but put that aside. ‘He only wants food, thats okay, Dash and I have enough to go around.’ She turned and slowly headed back inside, allowing the mischievous bunny to hop aboard her shoulders.

The duo made their way to the kitchen where the yellow pegasus sat the waiting creature down on the floor. She proceeded to hunt through the assorted bags of shopping till she found what she was looking for.

“How’s this?” She held up a string of lettuce.

The bunny stared, frowning, and shook his head.

“Um... okay.” Her head disappeared once more as she hunted for something else.

Her eyes shone as she reemerged with small neat package of hay. “Little bunnies just love hay. Don’t they?”

In anger, a tiny paw swiped the package sending it slamming onto the floor. Desperate to get the message across the bunny once again began motioning.

“Um... Okay...” Not entirely sure what the cute little critter was trying to ask for, Fluttershy once more went searching through her bags.

Tap tap tap tap tap tap tap.

A tiny foot drummed impatiently upon the wooden floor, reminding the searcher of his need to feed. Fluttershy squeaked, caught slightly off guard by the noise, but nodded as she kept on looking through the bags.

“I’m so sorry, little bunny, I just don’t know what you want! Please, tell me what you’d like?”

Palming his face with his paw, the bunny resigned and hopped over, reaching into the bag himself. He pulled something out, then tossed it at the yellow pony, which bopped off her head and landed at her hooves for her to see. Fluttershy’s face lit up in understanding.

“You want a carrot?”

A tiny head bobbed rapidly, he had finally got the message across!

“Oh... okay.” A shy smile lit the yellow mare’s face, happy to have the problem sorted out.

She nudged the carrot toward the bunny who rapidly devoured it as if he had never eaten before. Fluttershy picked another from the bag, holding it carefully over to the tiny fuzzball who snatched it from her grasp and shoved it into his tiny motor mouth.

As soon as the second carrot was finished, the little creature motioned for more.

“Are you sure? I don’t want you to get a tummy ache, maybe you should stop.” She did her best to pacify the demanding creature.

He tapped the floor with an impatient foot, demanding more.

“Okay, but please go easy.” She removed the rest of the carrots then placed them in front of the hungry creature. He ripped into the pile, sending shards of carrot flying in every direction.

“Oh dear...” Fluttershy blinked, unable to do anything else, other than watch the spectacle.

After demolishing the pile, the obnoxious rabbit bounded onto Fluttershy’s back and promptly fell asleep, softly snoring. Resigning herself to being the tiny animal's bed, the defeated mare sighed. She walked over to the couch and plonked herself down upon it. After a period of time passed, the animal caretaker was sure that he was well and truly asleep. She reached up and carefully removed her package, placing him in the care of her forehooves on the couch. She stroked his fur softly cooing to the sleeping ball of white fuzz, “Aren’t you just the cutest little bunny ever. I think I’ll keep you. My little...Angel.”

Fluttershy nestled down, resting her head beside the blissful creature and allowed herself to join him in the realms of asleep.

With a massive yawn, Fluttershy awoke, stretching her limbs as she stood up. Had she taken a nap? She hadn’t even realized that she had done so! But when she looked at the clock, shocked to discover that it was already quarter past five....

She looked around in a panic. Where was Rainbow Dash? Her friend was supposed to have been home by now. Where was she? Was she safe? What if something had happened to her and Fluttershy wasn’t there to help her?

The front door flew open, revealing a grinning Rainbow Dash with a cake box in held by the twine in her teeth, “Honey, I’m home!” She placed the box down next to her on the floor.

“Rainbow!!” Fluttershy exclaimed happily, her cheeks pinkening at the ever familiar joke they always used ever since they started living together. Every now and then, Dash would come home and say that line, just to play with her.

Fluttershy giggled and trotted across to Rainbow Dash. She brought her strong companion into a hug and kissing her on the cheek. Due to her eyes being closed, she didn’t catch Dash’s predatory smirk, and the bold mare turned her head and caught her lips, kissing them.

Fluttershy’s aquamarine eyes burst open in shock, that wasn’t supposed to happen! However, she couldn’t help but allow herself to be pulled into the kiss by her crush. She melted, instantly savoring the tantalizing feel of Rainbow's lips. Fluttershy’s entire body suddenly felt so alive and full of love for her secret crush and best friend. She returned the kiss whole-heartedly, happily engaged in a prolonged kiss almost mirroring what they had done the night before.

Rainbow Dash pulled away, grinning. “How’s my awesome friend? Had a fun day?”

Fluttershy nuzzled her companion, feeling enraptured all over again. “Much better now that you’re here, my guardian angel.”

“You’re too sweet,” Dash chuckled, she kissed the cute yellow pegasus in front of her on the cheek before she released her. “I brought home a cake! Got it from that crazy pony, Pinkie Pie! I was passing Sugarcube Corner on my way home, and decided to go inside and get something sweet for dessert! I go in, Pinkie’s there, as if she’s expecting me, and she gives me this free cake! It looks so awesome!” She indicated to the box.

“Yay! Now we can celebrate our new home. I hope you didn’t mind me unpacking almost everything that was left?”

“Nah, I don’t care!” Dash shook her head, “Thanks for that, Flutters.”

“You’re most welcome, Dash.” Fluttershy turned, “Would you like some dinner?”

“You bet I do! I’m starved!” The cyan pegasus licked her lips, “Sounds good to me!” the earthquake from the light blue belly indicated her point, causing Fluttershy to giggle. She licked the cyan mare’s muzzle affectionately before she trotted off toward the kitchen.

“Follow me. You sound hungry.”

Dash picked up the cake and followed her friend, eagerly anticipating the coming meal.

“I have some groceries I bought today,” Fluttershy told her, searching the bags, “Is there anything you want? There isn’t much, but I have a variety to work with.”

“Um... what made all the mess?” Rainbow Dash paused, passing a hoof over the carrot shards on the ground.

“Mess?” Fluttershy turned around, following where her friend was pointing, “Oh! That was Angel. I’m afraid I missed all that mess before I had a nap.”

“Angel?” Dash cocked her head, she had never heard of anypony called angel.

“He’s my new bunny!” The yellow pony gushed.

Without leaving her friend time for a reply Fluttershy eagerly pointed to the sleeping rabbit nearby, “There he is!”

Relief flooded Rainbow Dash’s system, it was only some pet, not a stallion. Indeed, a little white puff of fur snoozed where Fluttershy had pointed.

“Isn’t he adorable?” Fluttershy cooed.

“Yeah, he's cute.” Rainbow smiled a bit, glad to see that her friend had found a new animal to fawn over.

“Can we keep him? Please?”

“Well... I don’t see why not. He... looks okay.” Although Rainbow Dash would have preferred to let the creature go, her companions pleading gaze easily convinced her otherwise.

Fluttershy unleashed a squee of excitement at the acceptance from her friend. She flew into the bold mare, tacked her in a big hug and zoomed into the air in joy.

“Thank you, Dashie!! Thank you! You’re the best!” Fluttershy squealed.

“Yep... I’m awesome. Now please, stop choking me.”

Giggling, Fluttershy smothered her best friend’s face with kisses before she released the cyan mare and dropped to the floor beside her. “Sorry...I’m just so happy! Thank you!”

Dash giggled and gave her best friend a hug and a nuzzle. “Hey, if it makes you happy, that's fine by me.” When she turned to look back toward Angel, she noticed something amiss, and frowned. “Hey! Where'd the fuzzball go?”

“Gone? Why he’s-” The shy mare looked to where her pet had been...only to see that the spot was indeed empty. “Oh! He must have gotten up, I suppose! I’ll go prepare dinner, then, you get yourself comfy. I’m sure you had a long day!”

Fluttershy headed to the kitchen, taking the bags with her to prepare their evening meal. Rainbow stretched her body a bit before heading over to recline on the couch after quite a long day.

A flying cabbage hit the rainbow-maned mare in the back of her head. She spun around to face her attacker. “Hey!”

The bunny, Angel, stood a few feet away, giving her a hard stare. Clearly, he did not approve of her. The annoyed pegasus advanced upon the tiny nuisance, ready to tell him off.

“Oh, there he is! Good! Rainbow, meet Angel Bunny!” Fluttershy reappeared, glad to see her friend was finally able to meet her new pet.

“He hit me!!” Dash rubbed the back of her head, cringing. “He just threw a cabbage at my head for no reason!”

“What?” The shocked animal caretaker looked down at the innocent bunny, unable to believe he would do such a thing. “Angel Bunny, now why did you throw a cabbage at her head? That’s not nice!”

The fluffy white critter shook his head, denying all charges.

“Angel...” Fluttershy’s voice held a warning tone, “I know Dash would never lie to me. Now why did you do that? It was very rude. She lives with me, after all, and I will not have you treating my friends so shamefully. Apologize, now, please.”

The tiny nuisance looked horrified, the two were together? Now how was he supposed to have a caretaker? He frowned and shook his head.

“No Angel, she’s my friend.”

Dash slowly approached her friend and gave her a nuzzle. Fluttershy giggled, her anger diminishing, and nuzzled her light blue companion back, a slight blush upon her muzzle.

The minute creature gave the pair a look that said whatever, before he hopped off to find something else to chew on.

“I’m so sorry he hit you, Rainbow,” Fluttershy said softly, “I didn’t think he would do that. And yet...he did throw a carrot at me today when he tried to tell me he wanted one.”

“Then why would you keep such a pet? I’d kick his flank out right now.”

“I know... but let’s give him a chance. He’s been out in the wild longer than being a domestic pet, Rainbow,” Fluttershy coaxed, “We’ll just make sure he knows who’s boss in the house.”

“Yeah, me. The awesome Rainbow Dash!”

Fluttershy giggled, “Yes, that’s true. I’m also the boss, since he’s my pet. He’ll have to listen to both of us.”

“Good luck with that.” Dash wandered over into the kitchen to try and find what it was her companion had been in the middle of creating.

“Rainbow have faith,” cooed the creamy yellow pegasus as she followed after her crush. “It will just take some time to house train him.”

“Okay. But... why did you call him Angel?”

With a bright smile, Fluttershy trotted over to her companion and nuzzled her sweetly, kissing her on the cheek, “Because he reminds me of my other angel...”

Dash’s cheeks glowed as she caught her friends meaning. “Awwww... Thanks Fluttershy. But did you really have to name some bunny after my awesomeness?”

“Well, no... but I wanted to,” the animal caretaker admitted, looking away shyly.

The cyan mare’s tummy chose the intimate moment to announce its presence once more.

Fluttershy giggled. “I guess I need to get my angel pony something.”

“You bet! I’m still starved!” The athlete grinned as she watched her friend trot over to the counter. While Rainbow Dash observed, her smile softened as she gazed at the beautiful pegasus, just in awe for a moment. ‘You know, she’s the real angel around here...’

A thought overcame the cyan pegasus then and she realized something. She had ditched Fluttershy earlier that day. Yet her companion hadn’t even brought it up? Did she not care, or was she too hurt? If she was hurt or even angry about it, she was hiding it so well. But then again, while the quiet yellow mare was one to wear her heart on her hoof, she could also cover her feelings under many hard to grasp layers pretty well.

Saddened, Rainbow Dash trotted over to the creamy yellow pegasus and gave her a hug.

“I’m sorry, Fluttershy.”

The surprised pony flinched slightly before she melted into her friend’s affection. “Mmm? What for, Rainbow?”

The cyan pegasus took a deep breath, she stepped away from her friend to gaze honestly into the stunning orbs in front of her. “...For ditching you like that. I mean, if I think about it, if we went to a Wonderbolts derby or something and you ditched me just like that, I’d be pretty mad. So, it was stupid of me! I know I don’t like anypony touching my hooves, but I guess I could’ve just told them I didn’t want a hoofi-whatever that was!” She squeezed her eyes shut, looking away from her companion.

But when she felt warm forelegs embracing her body, her eyes shot open and she remained frozen for a moment.

“It’s all right, Rainbow. I forgive you,” Fluttershy whispered softly.

“...You’re too forgiving, pal. I don’t deserve that,” Dash sighed and looked away from the quiet pegasus.

“Yes you do,” the shy pony admitted, and then with bold bravery, leaned in and gently touched their lips together. They both blushed, but prolonged the sweet little kiss, “And I forgive you.”

With a goofy smile upon her muzzle, Dash just hugged her best friend, content in that moment of forgiveness.

“However, you’re going to have to let me at least take care of you, Dashie.”

“...Oh fine, you’re the only pony I’d let touch my hooves, anyway.”

They laughed a bit before sharing another kiss. When Fluttershy pulled back to resume making dinner, Dash sat there on the floor with a lovesick, goofy grin on her face.

That is until Angel tossed a carrot at her head.

Ponyville, Market Square

The next day, since they didn’t have to go to work until the afternoon, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy headed off into town to buy some more groceries. With their saddlebags at the ready on their backs, they traversed through the quaint farmer’s market in search for the items they needed in terms of fresh grown food.

One of the stands caught Dash’s attention, which to her surprise, was an apple stand. It didn’t just sell apples, it sold all kinds of apple-made products. Apple pies, caramel apples, apple fritters, dumplings, fries, and even apple juice! Her jaw dropped, and her mouth watered.

“Why howdy’ nice day fer a young couple like yerselves to be around town.”

Fluttershy blushed heavily and hid against her equally embarrassed companion.

“Uh, hey! We’re uh...not a couple! We’re just friends!” Dash protested, her own cheeks fairing no better than her shy companions were.

“Really?” It was clear that the farmer didn’t believe them.

“Duh, of course!” Rainbow grinned, trying to look convincing. “Just a couple of roomies getting some food, you know?”

“That’s okay, but ya’ wouldn’t be the first two in town.” Applejack nonchalantly pointed out.

“Well...um....but we’re....not a couple.....Miss....” Fluttershy squeaked.

“Yea. We’re only here to buy some apples.” Insisted Rainbow Dash as she held her ground, wishing that her friend would give her a little more space and therefore make both their lives easier.

The farmer reached out and plucked a bunch of the red fruits from her stall. “Here ya’ go! Ah’ hope ya’ll enjoy your day!”

“Oh, thank you!” Fluttershy reached into her saddle bag to produce her bag of bits. “How much do we owe you miss...? I’m...sorry...what’s your name?”

“Applejack! Pleased to meet you. If ya’ll ever find yourselves in need of some of the greatest produce in all of Equestria don’t hesitate to drop by at Sweet Apple Acres. That’ll be 8 bits for you miss.”

Rainbow beat her friend to it, tossing the required amount onto the table and giving Fluttershy a quick confident grin. The orange earth pony in front of them chucked.

“Ya sure you two are both just friends?”

“Yes!” With her final answer, Rainbow Dash stalked off in a huff. So much for being the most awesome pony in town. Her shy friend was making her look soft!

Fluttershy stayed back for a moment. She glanced around shyly, “Um...it was very nice to meet you, Applejack... We’ll see you around again, of course.”

“Sure thang, Miss Fluttershy!” Applejack grinned.

The orange farmer bid the shy yellow pegasus good bye with a nod. “Ah look forward ta seein’ y’all again! Stop by anytime!”

“We will, yes... thank you....” Fluttershy nodded gratefully then hurried after her companion.

As the two young mares walked off the farmer laughed to herself. “Ah’ think ah’ can see a young couple when ah see them... wonder how long it’ll take.”

Canterlot, Celestia’s private quarters, 18 months later.

“Enter.”

The slow creak of the ancient door heralded Princess Luna’s entrance into her sister’s room. The luna princess entered with care, her light blue mane flowing in the breeze was a sign of her undeveloped powers as an alicorn. Her recent freedom from her prison called Nightmare Moon had caused her to stand noticeably smaller than her sister too. The young looking mare was uncertain about the condition of her sister’s current mood and so crept up to her with tepid steps.

“Thou has summoned me, sister?”

“Yes, I did.” Celestia nodded in reply. “Although I would call it something other than summon. You are my sister and a princess like me.”

“We know.” Luna slowly continued her slow approach toward her ever regal sister.

Instead of making further conversation, Princess Celestia turned to her window and gazed out across the land. The last rays of her sun were upon Equestria, as magnificent as the mare who stood watch.

The deep blue alicorn sidled up beside her sister and after a quick questioning glance at the near inanimate pony, she too turned her vision upon their land. Luna could feel the time for raising the moon was nearly upon her and quickly started to become restless. She wondered why her sister called for her at such a time when she had better things to do than simply watch the world go by.

More moments passed in silence as Luna itched to get moving, to do something, to raise the moon.

“It’s amazing, isn’t it?” Celestia’s voice broke the silence between the sisters.

“Yes. I guess...” Replied Luna softly as she wondered where her older sibling was headed.

“I remember the days when we used to do this as a family. We dreamed of the future, what we could make of Equestria through friendship and love... yet not once did I think of how beautiful it was at the time... how unique.”

“We remember those days to ‘Tia. Are not times better now than they were before?”

With a sigh Celestia turned to her sister. “I wish I could say yes to you little sister. A few months ago, I would have said yes without second thought. However now... now I’m not so sure.”

“What?” The luna princess did a double take, carefully eyeing her sister. “Does thou mean all is not as right as it appears?”

“I do. There are forces at work, some friendly, while a few are not. They are out there, out in our beautiful kingdom. While I delight in the power of friendship and all others that exist for good, I worry that the darker powers will try their hoof at something soon.”

With a concerned look upon her muzzle, Luna turned to gaze out across the land. “Art thou certain? But everypony is at peace. A peace thou has protected for well over a thousand years... even from me.”

“I know. We may soon need more than simply the Elements of Harmony to defend Equestria. Cadence’s search for the Crystal Empire is going well, as are my guards attempts at keeping the peace here.”

“Does thou mean that thou has at long last found the Crystal Empire?” Joy sparked inside Luna, she would love to see the Empire again.

“It may have been found, yes.” Replied Celestia.

“Is why we have been called? To venture forth and seek out the hidden Empire?” Asked a now excited Luna.

“No. I have another small task for you. While Cadence is tending to matters regarding the Crystal Empire, I would have you seek out the part of the key that lives in the mountains. I must know that it is still safe.”

“As thou wishes. We understand.” Luna’s mood soured a little at the thought of so many days flight by herself out into the wilderness, yet she knew of the tasks importance. “And if it is safe?”

“Then all is well in Equestria. If it is gone... Then we must seek to retrieve it. While you go about your tasks, I would have you to listen for any rumours. I am still hopeful that we will come out of this without Equestria passing through any darkness at all. I asked you to meet me here, in my room as it is private. More private than anywhere else and I don’t don’t wish for anypony else to bear witness to what may yet be something minor.”

“Not as private as the time thou and thy less than handsome prince dwelt here. Those were the days we had to stay well away.” A smug grin covered Luna’s muzzle for a moment as she broke the mood of the moment, glad that their serious part of the meeting appeared to be over.

Upon being met with a stony look from her sister, Luna bowed her head. “...Sorry... We-”

“All is fine. You have done nothing wrong.” A white hoof lifted from the floor to rub the back of the night blue alicorn. “I simply can’t ever recall you finding somepony special.” A happy, encouraging grin covered the solar alicorn’s face as she bumped flanks with her younger sibling.

“Why sister... Thou ought to be ashamed of thyself.” With a huff Luna turned away, her muzzle pointed at the ceiling. “We simply cannot find a mare who takes our fancy. That is all.”

“Oh yes... And what sort of mare might my sister seek?” Celestia grinned lightly, glad for the change in topic.

“We are not sure.” Came the curt reply as Luna continued to pin her gaze upwards.

“I think I sense something here Luna... are you sure you are telling the truth?”

A sparking green eye darted briefly toward the sunny alicorn before it returned to its patch of celling.

“Or does my sister need to get out more? I can arrange a few days off if that is what you would like?” Offered the pure white mare innocently.

“We are fine. Thou has borne the load for the both of us for long enough. And alone too.”

“I’m sure I can manage one or two more days. If you can tell me what kind of mare you seek... I might even be able to help you.”

Luna turned her gaze carefully back to her sister. “Thou always wishes to help us.”

“I am your sister.” Celestia continued to smile, doing her best to lighten the mood.

“Thou has done enough,” quietly insisted Luna.

“But I will alway be willing to help, even if you don’t want it.” With this, Celestia moved in for a comforting nuzzle.

Luna breathed a sigh of relief at the contact. A coy smile played across her muzzle for a few moments as she entertained thoughts of a certain mare she had first spotted when she was still Nightmare Moon.

“We... might have somepony in mind... If the night court were to be suspended for one evening, we could fly out and visit this pony.”

“Then it shall be suspended for tonight. I think a special somepony will help you greatly. You have much to learn if you are to fully integrate back into society and rule alongside me. As much as I wish for you to do so, you still have some ways to go.”

“Does a special somepony really make such a big difference to thy life?” Luna asked with uncertainty.

“Yes. Even if they are the same sex as you.”

This caused Luna’s cheeks to heat a little. She was thankful for the dark coat that prevented the blush from becoming visible to her sibling,

“Then why did thou never choose a new mate?”

This killed the mood for Celestia, but she chose to answer the question all the same. “Because I’ve never truly been able to get rid of the old one... even though he is not with us now.”

“He’s in stone...” Luna gave her sister a stony look to suit her comment.

“Yes...”

“You want him out?”

  “Yes...”

“Then why not just release him?!?” The princess of the night felt almost ready to explode at her sister for not accomplishing the obvious already.

“Luna... I can’t.”

That shut the dark coated princess up.

Silence returned to the room once more. “We thought thou saith thou moved on after thy daughter disappeared...?”

“So did I.” With that, Celestia turned and made her way across to her bed. “I remember this fitted a draconicus rather well too.” She padded the sheets for a moment, indicating the spot where the lord of chaos once slept. The sunny princess kicked off her gold shoes and slipped under the covers.

Luna looked on as her sister gazed up at her from with the warm sheets. “That... that is too much information...”

“No Luna... If I were to tell you what we did in this bed... that would be too much information.” Celestia smiled as repressed memories began to surface of the long nights spent with her special ‘somepony.’

“Sometimes we wonder about thee, big sister...”

Celestia stretched out in bed, relishing the warm contact with the sheets, then she smiled up at her sister. “That is a good thing. I would hate to be as perfect as everypony thinks I am.”

Luna slowly made her way toward the door. Now was the perfect moment to raise the moon, before her sister let slip with any more unwanted information about her past.   Just before Luna was about to open the door with her magic she turned to face her sister for one last parting comment. “Should we bring thy statue to thy room, your highness?”

“Oh get out!” Celestia waved her sister away playfully.

“The offer still stands.” Replied Luna with a more sombre expression.

Once the door had closed, the princess of the day lay there for a small eternity, unable to move as her brain went for a trip down memory lane.   Her stunning daughter, Natura and her wonderful yet unpredictable Discord. Both gone. Gone for so long that some days it was as if neither had ever existed anywhere but in her heart.

While her daughter was long gone, Celestia knew that it was remotely possible to free her ex-coltfriend. Yet she knew that if he were to be released now, there was no way she could able to ask him for forgiveness, or that he would accept her.

Chapter Four: Of Bunnies and Ponies

Chapter Four: Hearth’s Warming Joys

Ponyville outskirts.

Snow covered the land of Equestria. Pure white snow, It was soon to be the joyous, wonderful time of the year, Hearth’s Warming Eve. Already, Ponyville was decorated with the amazing decorations of the holiday, along with an enormous Hearth’s Warming tree set up in the town square. Everypony in town, Earth ponies, pegasi and unicorns alike all utilized their capabilities in order to decorate it with a variety of big ornaments and streamers.

On this particular snowy day, Rainbow Dash trotted along the tree lot with her roommate and best friend Fluttershy, as they searched for a tree to put in their cottage. Rainbow had offered to go out into the forest and chop one down, but Fluttershy resisted, saying she didn’t want her friend to get hurt. It took some coaxing, but the daredevil finally agreed to just going down to the lot and finding a tree. They were also pulling a sleigh along with some ropes, which they would be using to bring the tree back to their cottage.

“How about this one?” Rainbow pointed to one nearby, which was at least ten feet tall.

“Um... I don’t know... I think it’s too tall...” Fluttershy replied thoughtfully, before she shook her head. “I don’t want the tip of it to get smooshed by the ceiling.”

“Fine, something shorter,” Rainbow relented, looking around the lot. “Hey! That one!”

The more studious mare studied it. “I-... well, I don’t know... what do you think?”

“It’s too skinny. We need one with a lot of pine needles! Wait, then it’ll need more water. Fine! Let’s get a medium one or something!”

“Oh, don’t worry, there are plenty of trees for us to choose from! Here, let me try. Mmm...mm...This one?”

“Too thick!”

“That one?”

“Too small!”

“How about this one?”

“It barely has any branches!” Rainbow Dash indicated, becoming rather annoyed at the lack of a clear winner.

The two pegasi were pretty hard-pressed to find a tree that was “just right” for them and the cottage, but with Dash being a little bit picky and Fluttershy concerned about the sizing, it took a while. A few minutes, neither knew how long, at the most.

But finally, within the trees, they found one that was just perfect. About six and a half feet tall, fairly thick branches that hid the trunk, but not too thin or thick. Frankly, for what they were looking for, it was just what they needed. A simple yet big enough tree, for their little home during the Hearths Warming season.

“It’s perfect, Rainbow! I’m glad we found one to make this very special...” Fluttershy murmured as she helped her friend tie the tree to their sleigh.

“I’ll say! For our first Hearth’s Warming in a new town and new place? It’s just what we need!” Rainbow grinned, tightening a few of the ropes.

The powerful muscles in the athlete went into action as she hauled the heavy object along on the sleigh. Fluttershy trotted contentedly beside her best friend.

It seemed to take no time at all for the pair to reach the cottage. Fluttershy gently opened the door for her friend. The bold mare briskly toppled the tree off the sleigh into the snow.

“Hey, Flutters? Help me get this thing inside!”

“Okay.” The yellow pegasus stepped back outside to assist.

Fluttershy helped by pushing in the tree, while Rainbow pulled the rope, the two of them working together as best as they could to bring the tree inside. Once they managed to get it through the doorway, the pink-maned pegasus flew over it to get inside, heading to the box of Hearth’s Warming decorations (one of the few boxes they didn’t need to unpack) so she could fetch the appropriate stand for it. She set it in place, then helped Dash pick up and prop the base of the tree into the stand. Dash held it in place, while Fluttershy slipped underneath and adjusted the hooks to hold the trunk in place.

Making sure it was steady, Dash gingerly let go, and Fluttershy crawled out from beneath the tree to examine it as well. Sure enough, the tree remained standing and steady, majestic in their living room.

“Ya know, since the cottage is bigger than the apartment and has taller ceilings, it’s no wonder it’s a great size!” The cyan pegasus grinned, taking it all in.

“Oh Rainbow, it looks wonderful! We were right to choose this tree...” Fluttershy smiled as she gave her crush a winged hug.

“Yea. It’s awesome.” The cyan mare disappeared into the container of decorations, throwing several out. “And now we get to decorate the tree.”

Tinsel settled on Fluttershy’s nose followed by several other items that were tossed her way by her friend. The shy pony began to feel like she was the tree. Suddenly a cyan hoof removed her coverings meeting her lips. Before she realised what was happening, her friend pulled away, grinning.

“Sorry there, Flutters. I almost thought you were a tree.”

“Silly....” A blush settled on Fluttershy’s cheeks as she giggled with delight, then began to search one of the other Hearth’s Warming Eve boxes.

“Right...” Dash studied the majestic tree for a few moments, tinsel in one hoof.

Without waiting for her companion to start, the speedy pegasus begun throwing items onto the tree, decorating it just like so. She tossed all kinds ornaments and tinsel along the tree as fast as she could. She flew up and hovered gently above the floor to reach the higher branches. Fluttershy found the star in one of the boxes, making the sure the lights in it still worked. Seeing that they did, she set it aside so that they could put it on last.

Another box contained the tree lights, which Fluttershy tested as well and was glad to discover they still worked fine. She began to string them along the branches, starting at the lowest before she headed upwards with the help of her wings. Rainbow Dash helped her, taking another strand and starting up at the higher branches, so the two of them would meet halfway as they made their way up and down.

“All right....now for the star,” Fluttershy brought it over, holding it in her mouth, “Why don’t you put it up, Rainbow?”

“Nah, you do it! I did it last year.”

“Oh no, I insist! You do it.”

“Nuh-uh! Nothing doing! You’re putting it up!”

“...Why don’t we...both put it up?”

Rainbow grinned, nodding as she took the other end in her teeth, “I love the way you think sometimes, Fluttershy!”

A very blushy yellow pegasus giggled as the pair hovered up to the top of the tree, gently placing the star on top. Once it was connected to another one of the plugged-in lights a few branches down, it lit with a beautiful glow illuminating the pair in a warm gentle light.

Both mares stood back to take a moment to admire their work, amazed at how lovely their tree looked. While it wasn’t too much different from the trees they had back at their first apartment, it did still prove to be a unique and special Hearth’s Warming tree. Since they had a various assortment of ornaments, tinsel and lights, they were able to mix things up every year, so in a sense, it did feel like they had a new tree every year.

“Oh Dashie...it’s beautiful...it really turned out so wonderful...and for our first tree in our new home...” Fluttershy murmured, tears in her eyes, “I really don’t think I could have asked for any better...”

“Aww, come on, don’t get sappy!” Dash threw a foreleg around her best friend’s shoulders and held her close, “It’s just a decorated tree for the holiday and it looks great! Nothin’ to it!”

Fluttershy blushed and snuggled against her, “I know...that’s very true. I suppose I can’t help but get caught up in the sentimentality of it... And well, these past few years since we’ve been living together...it’s been a treat to share it together.”

Unable to keep from smiling, Rainbow Dash gave her a hug, “You’re right, Fluttershy! It’s pretty awesome we can do this together again!”

The two friends settled down under the tree and snuggled into each others comfortable embrace.

At least until Angel came scampering into the living room and rammed himself in between the pair, as if demanding for some attention too. Regardless of the interruption, both pegasi settled in together, embraced (with Angel, too), taking an afternoon nap together under the tree.

Feeling nothing but the placid beat of her friends heart, Rainbow Dash allowed herself to fall asleep to its rhythm.

Ponyville Marketplace.

Fluttershy trotted along beside Rarity as the two mares browsed for Hearths Warming gifts in the noon day sun. They shopped along in the stores, now seeking gifts they wished to buy for their friends and families. It was clear that the festive season was about to hit the town, everywhere they looked. As it drew nearer, it was no wonder the hustle and bustle grew all the more stronger. Fluttershy had to admit that it was very different from the holiday season in Cloudsdale, to be sure.

“Isn’t that necklace just divine?” Rarity’s eyes shone as she beheld yet another trinket her heart desired.

“Um... Rarity... It’s 350 bits. That's my entire budget for the gifts I have to buy...”

“Well, then do tell, what IS on your list, dear?” Rarity queried.

“Um... well.... I’m buying a sweater for my father....” Fluttershy looked over the list she had in her hoof, “A new figurine for my mother at the ceramics shop... a couple of things for my aunt and uncle, my cousins.... my grandfather...”

“Nothing for Rainbow Dash?” Rarity gasped.

“O-Oh! No no... I... I already have her present...” Fluttershy admitted, blushing a bit. “Well... um.... two presents, actually...”

“Oh?” Rarity turned an enquiring gaze upon her friend.

With a slight bush, Fluttershy indicated to a small box she had in her saddlebags, “I just bought it when we got here, actually. ...It’s mistletoe.”

Rarity gave her a blank look.

“...What?” The timid mare looked at her with confusion, wondering why she was looking at her like that.

Suddenly realization crossed the alabaster mare’s face. “You’re planning on asking her out, aren’t you?”

“N-no... of course not...! I mean, I want to... but I'm just... I can't do that unless I know for sure that she wants to be with me!” Fluttershy trailed off, shaking her head. “I just want to kiss her. All of times we kissed were spontaneous and I can’t just ask!  ...At least with mistletoe, I won’t have to.”

“Hoping your mare will come to you, are we?” Rarity observed with a smile.

“Um...!” The timid pegasus really didn’t need such information going public.

“Don’t worry Fluttershy. As much as I love gossip I want you to know that your secret is safe with me.”

Fluttershy smiled with relief, “Thank you so much, Rarity... That means a lot to me.”

“You’re welcome, my dear.” Spotting something, the white unicorns eyes went wide. “How about that for some stunning lingerie? Isn’t it darling? Perhaps that would make for some lovely sleepwear! And even, perhaps... entice Rainbow Dash?” Rarity gave her a saucy wink.

“W-What?!” Fluttershy’s eyes went wide. Yet, at the same time, she couldn’t help but imagine the idea of herself wearing that, while Rainbow lay on the bed, looking at her with that sexy, predatory smirk and beckoning her to join-no! She couldn’t think that! “I-It’s... nice... very... nice... um... ooh! Over there! Let’s... go over there!”

Excitement lit the queen of fashion’s eyes as she spotted the nearby pet store. “Oh, now that would look amazing on Opal!”

While Rarity hurried off toward the pet gifts store, Fluttershy lingered for a moment. To buy, or not to buy? But what use would she have for lingerie? Thoughts of the look on a certain rainbow maned mare filled her head once again. Her heart begun to beat rapidly and she found herself walking toward the quiet lingerie shop. Whatever it was inside telling to buy it, and she found herself powerless to stop it.

The lingerie in question that Rarity had spotted and Fluttershy found herself looking over was beautiful. It was pink, with a trim of black lace, at a fair length that would likely cover half of her flank, the material was silk, and it had spaghetti-thin straps.

“That will be 80 bits, love.” The dry voice of the bored mare behind the counter rang out, snapping the shy mare out of her trance.

Fluttershy unleashed a small squeal of surprise.

“Oh come on. I’ve been here the whole time...” The attendant complained as she rolled her eyes.

“Um....” Fluttershy twiddled her hooves. “O-Okay... yes... I-I’d like to purchase this one,” she indicated to the very lingerie piece that was fitted on display of the dress dummy.

“Great. You must be very keen to impress your special somepony. I can guarantee you, he will just love to see you in this.”

Fluttershy felt her face heat up. No stallion would ever catch her in such an outfit! Even if she did go through with wearing it, the only pony who would ever be allowed see her in it was and always would be Rainbow Dash.

“I... I-I’m not... it’s... it’s... It’s not for me! It’s... uh, ..for a friend! For... Warming Eve's Hearth and all... hee...” Fluttershy said nervously.

“Of course... whatever.” The unimpressed mare stared back at her, holding out her hoof awaiting payment.

Nodding rapidly, the shy pony reached for her bag of money, then handed over eighty bits in exact change.

Satisfied, the attendant returned to her previous task of ignoring everypony, which allowed Fluttershy to hurriedly pack the kit into her saddlebags. The shy pony made haste out of the shop, hoping that no pony else had spotted her. She quickly scanned the crowd for her friend, and quickly spotted the unicorn still inside the pet gifts store. With a sigh of relief, the yellow pegasus made her way over.

“Ah, there you are darling!” Rarity didn’t seem to miss her temporary absence too much. “I was wondering. Should I get this one or this for Opal?”

Fluttershy tensed, unsure. But then again, she figured it best to just pick one and get it over with.“Um...the one on the right?”

“I’ll have the one on the right.” Rarity confirmed, then promptly handed the payment across to the serving pony.

“Well....then I guess we’ll continue our shopping, then...” Fluttershy said, a bit flustered, hopeful her friend wouldn’t catch on to the fact that she did indeed buy the lingerie after all.

Rarity gave a nod, then led her friend out of the shop. “Absolutely, dear!”

Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie and Applejack made their way out of Sugarcube Corner and toward the packed marketplace. All three were happy to enjoy the sights and sounds of the festive season.

“This is going to be the best Hearth’s Warming Ever!” Pinkie couldn’t get enough of the festive sights around them as she bounced about.

“Ya say that every year,” Applejack muttered dryly, but smiled anyway, “So how ‘bout you, RD? Got anythin’ in mind fer yer... friend?”

“Um... not really...” The disorganized speedster trailed off, she still had no idea what she could buy anypony.

Pinkie Pie gasped, “What???? You don’t have a special giftie for your special Flutters? But Dashie! That’s so sad!!!”

With a nonchalant shrug in response, Rainbow Dash looked from shop to shop to see where she could start. “Yea. But I haven’t found anything, okay? Fluttershy needs something... I don’t know... special... Something awesome.”

Applejack chuckled, “Not something like a certain kind of hoof band ah’ hope.”

“Oooohhhh!!!” Pinkie giggled excitedly, “That would be SO COOL, Dashie!”

A cyan hoof covered the party pony’s mouth before she could go any further. “I am not getting anypony a wedding band!”

“Ah’ never said nuthin’ about no wedding band.” Applejack defended, her face split into a massive innocent grin.

“But you suggested it!” The accusing voice of Rainbow Dash caused Pinkie to giggle.

“An’ yer tha one who said it,” teased the farm pony.

“And then we all get to have a great big party for Dashie and Fluttershy!” Pinkie nearly exploded with joy.

“No Pinkie! I’m not marrying my best friend. That’s just... ewwwww...” Rainbow trailed off with a look of distain upon her face. At least, she hoped it was a convincing

However, a clear blush resonated on her face as she couldn't help but envision the idea of one day marrying Fluttershy. It had been at the back of her mind, especially since they practically lived like they were married, so to speak. But it wasn't quite something she was ready to even bring up. No matter how appealing the idea sounded.

“An’ ya’d rather marry some complete stranger?” Applejack jabbed, winking.

“NO! If I had THAT kind of choice, duh, of course I’d marry Fluttershy over a stranger!” Dash huffed.

“What about me? Would you marry me?” Pinkie bounced up and down with no clue as to why she herself was offering such a thing.

“NO.” Dash said outright, shaking her head.

“It’s alright Dashie.” Pinkie giggled. “I was only teasing you. We both know you love Fluttershy.”

“I DON’T love Fluttershy!!!” Rainbow blushed hard, “I, yeah, I love Fluttershy but I’m not IN love with her!”

This was of course a big lie. Admitting it to herself and then out loud to others wasn't exactly the same thing in her mind.

Pinkie rolled around on the path in hysterics, even the orange earth pony couldn’t help but join in a little.

“What?! Why are you laughing?! That’s not funny! ...You two are acting totally uncool.” The cyan pegasus huffed, scowling. “It’s just a fact, that’s all! Now I’m done saying sappy things! Can we just get this over with already?!”

“Oh. Okay. Hey Applejackie, come with aunty Pinkie. I need to show you something.” The two left Dash to her own devices for a minute, both of them sent winks at her over their shoulders.

“Yeah, uh, okay, I’ll...meet you girls over there... later...” Dash stared after them, confused. Why did they just leave?

Her eyes, however, caught on to why. Right in front of her now was a lingerie shop. Oh no. They did NOT just...! In a wild panic she gazed around. They did...

She saw their plan. This was not what she had in mind. A lingerie shop? Who in her family or out of her friends would she buy something like this for?! And she herself would never be caught dead in lingerie. It was outrageous! Oh, she didn’t have to play this game. All she had to do was walk away. Just walk away. Away from it.

Her eyes caught sight of a lovely lingerie nightgown. Pink silk, black lace trim, thin straps... Dash gulped. Why was she staring at it? Who in Equestria would she want to entice by wearing it? It was stupid, she couldn’t possibly-

“Oh, Dashie...” Fluttershy murmured with seduction in her tone. The cute mare stood on her hind legs as she presented the lovely lingerie she wore in full view.

“C’mere you, you sexy beautiful pony...” Dash purred, beckoning her with her hoof. “You look beautiful, Flutters...stunning.”

“My rainbow...my Dashie...my sexy Wonderbolt...” Cooed a loving Fluttershy as she crawled into bed, full of joyful giggles. “Let’s make sweet pegasus love...”

Rainbow Dash forcibly snapped herself out of uncalled for, yet hot fantasy, the weather mare decided to wander inside and see what the fuss was about. The nagging feeling wouldn’t go away otherwise, anyhow.

“Hello... Welcome to Passion Night Lingerie Store. What can I get you today, miss?” The bored attendant asked with no apparent interest in her customer.

“Uh...” Dash’s mind went blank. What was she doing here again?

This was not her sort of place. She turned her attention back to the wares and suddenly remembered why she had entered the shop in the first place.

“Well, hurry up, I don’t have all day.” The bored tone of the shop keeper cut through the bold pony’s trail of thought.

“Hey! Aren't you supposed to be nice to your customers?” Rainbow Dash’s tone carried enough of an edge to cut a cake in two.

However, she might as well have bashed her head against a brick wall as the bored attendant appeared to be completely unfazed. “Whatever miss. Now are you going to buy something hot or not?”

“Yeah, ...that one.” Dash indicated the lingerie that she imagined Fluttershy would fit so well that- No! It was just going to be a present for her best friend... nothing more.

“80 bits.” The dull mare grabbed the money given to her.

Rainbow Dash packed the lingerie in her saddlebag and hurried out without saying another word to the rude shop keeper.

She strutted about, doing her best to appear as if nothing had happened. She had not just brought her beautiful friend something so... personal... but try as she might, the athlete could not keep the thoughts of how... nice... her best friend would look dressed up in such a way. Her wings continued to rise as she scanned the crowd for her friends.

Dash just hoped that her companions wouldn’t know what she just bought and why she bought it.

Much to the muti-coloured pegasus’s relief, nopony mentioned anything of the sort as the small group continued with their Christmas shopping.

Ponyville outskirts, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy’s cottage.

It was Hearth’s Warming Eve. A beautiful, bright snowy day in Ponyville, as everypony bustled about to get ready for their pageants and celebrations. Already there were carollers going about the streets with the beautiful traditional carols that were still practiced and sung even to this very day. The town Hearth’s Warming tree was decorated to its full prosperity along with a giant gold star, the entire town was decorated with beautiful ornaments and garlands, and it seemed to be that you could hear jingle bells in the air...

Over at the sweet little cottage near the Everfree Forest, the Hearth’s Warming spirit was just as alive there as it was everywhere else in town and indeed, all across Equestria.

Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy were preparing their holiday meal to share together. It had been a tradition since they’d began living together to spend Hearth’s Warming Eve with each other, and then to share Hearth’s Warming Day with their families, then come back in time for New Years.

“Wow Fluttershy. This looks amazing.” Dash couldn’t help but lick her lips at the tantalizing sight of their upcoming meal.

“Rainbow.” The chef warned as a stray cyan hoof ventured too close to some of the appealing food before them. “No! No! Bad Rainbow. Down, girl.”

Feeling cheeky, Rainbow leaned across and licked her friends muzzle. “How about now?”

Fluttershy shook her head as a soft blush settled upon her muzzle, “Noooo. It’s not ready yet, silly filly...”

Rainbow Dash noticed the rising temperature and decided to have some fun. She licked her best friend once more, then followed up with a quick kiss on the cheek.

“Hee...Rainbow, you can help me by cutting up the-oooohh!!” Fluttershy trembled and squealed as a pair of cyan forelegs wrapped around her body from behind.

Fluttershy’s wings bristled as she felt hot breath across her neck. A moment later she felt her bold friend gently nibble her ear eliciting a little squeak. She trembled, the spoon fell from her hoof and into the bowl of pudding she was mixing.

“R-Rainbow, what are you doing?”

“Nothing, just making sure you’re not all tense.” Rainbow Dash smirked, then kissed the back of her neck lightly, “And all that.”

“Ooh...” The shy pegasus trembled, blushing furiously. “Rainbow, stop...”

Chuckling, the cyan mare didn't let up in her ministrations on her best friend. “Sure doesn't sound like you want me to stop, Flutters.” She ran her hooves along Fluttershy's chest and stomach gently. “Do you?”

Excited tingles coursed through her body, her heart pounded, and her legs felt weak. Her wings were struggling to rise up despite being pushed down by Rainbow's body. There was even a strange heat pooling in her stomach as more intimate thoughts ran amuck in her mind. Even to where she hoped that one of Rainow's hooves would just travel a little lower...

“...No... I don't want you to stop... u-unless you do.” Fluttershy uttered honestly, yet she hoped that the bold pegasus would stop before things got... heated...

Encouraged, Dash kissed the back of the yellow mare’s neck again and nuzzled into the soft pink mane while her hooves continued their work. As Fluttershy leaned against her, it thrilled her all the more.

“Ouch!” The projectile bounced off Rainbow’s nose, spinning off into space.

Dash locked gazes with the offending carrot eater. “Why did you do that, you stupid bunny?” Her demands were not met as he blew her a raspberry then took off around the corner.

With the moment over, the thankful yellow pegasus turned back to the meal she had been tending to. Though not without the intent in scolding Angel for his misbehavior and interrupting the special moment. It was so close! Yet, at the same time, she almost felt relieved. What if something did happen? Would she have even been ready for that? It was hard to tell if she felt relieved or disappointed from the interruption. What was even going to happen, had it actually gone through?

Saddened at the sudden end to her fun and with no bunny there to take her disappointment out on, Dash turned back to her friend. She planted her hind on the floor, and settled down to observe the skilled pony was putting the finishing touches on their meal.

‘You know...she really is good looking....heh heh, she grew to be a real pretty mare. When she’s cooking something up, it’s weird how she looks awesome and graceful doing it. Wonder what’s going on in her-WHY AM I THINKING SAPPY STUFF?!!? ...Must be the holidays getting to me.’ Thought Dash, a hot blush upon her face, glad that her friend’s attention was elsewhere.

Fluttershy hummed to herself as she continued to work, mulling over the different possible ways to get her friend under the mistletoe with her. Tonight was her only chance, after all, since they were to head back to Cloudsdale to be with their families first thing tomorrow... she had to think of a good way to do it.... but how?

She cast a glance at her friend and did a double take. ‘Was Rainbow just checking my flank out?’ A further glance confirmed her thoughts. The clear blush that had formed on the bold mares face told Fluttershy all she needed to know. ‘She is looking...’ An adorable little giggle escaped the shy pony. At last she was able to return the favor and embarrass her friend.

Fluttershy playfully, though unsure why, gave her flank a little wiggle. Sure enough, Dash’s cheeks burned more and this time she looked away for a moment out of embarrassment.

‘But...why was she checking me out? She can’t really... have a crush on me or something can she?’

Dash meanwhile, couldn’t believe that Fluttershy caught her looking. And didn’t even seem to mind! This was getting to be too much. Her hormones were rising again, as were her wings.

Dash trotted out of the room to find something to do, and went to the bedroom. Under her bed was a box labeled “magazines”, which was true, it was indeed filled with all kinds of sports and stunt flying magazines, but within the box, wrapped up in tissue, was the lingerie she had bought for Fluttershy. Was she actually going to give it to her tonight?

The cyan pegasus gulped as she pulled out the garment. She looked it over for a moment and wondered how had she ever thought this was a good idea in the first place? Fluttershy would indeed look amazing in it, it would enhance her cuteness and her beauty all at the same time. It was perfect for her. The cut and design was sensual and alluring, skimpy even, but it wasn’t dirty nor sleazy. It was just the right kind of idea to showcase a mare like Fluttershy’s more sensual side.

But the question lingered in her mind. Why did she buy it for her? Did she really want to see her in it that much? For future use? How was she going to explain it to her? And what would Fluttershy think when she saw her gift?

Dash shook her head and did her best to clear the annoying thoughts. As soon as she glanced down again however, she was immediately reminded of how well it would fit her cute friend. She felt her cheeks heat up, then heard hoofsteps approaching. She hurriedly stuffed the lingerie back in the box and pretended to be in the middle of flicking through her magazine collection.

“Dinner's almost ready, Rainbow!”

The cyan mare took that as an excuse to stuff everything back in the box like a filly caught with her hoof in the cookie jar.

“I’ll be there in a minute!” Rainbow Dash hoped her shy friend hadn’t just caught a glimpse of the surprise present.

“All right, Rainbow,” Fluttershy said from the top of the stairs, only able to spot the top of Rainbow’s head considering she was obscured by her bed, “It should be ready in about five minutes or so!” She retreated slowly back downstairs.

With the receding sound of her friend’s soft hoofsteps, Dash sighed with relief. She had nearly been caught. She glanced up to meet the gaze of Angel Bunny.

“What?” Her chilling tone cooled the winter air in the room.

He simply gave her a disapproving look and refused to budge.

“Oh, you’re angry I’m giving her something like that? Come on! Get over yourself! I’m not about to make decisions based on what you approve!” Rainbow shot at the bunny.

Surprisingly, Angel just made a sighing motion and palmed his face with his paw. He then returned his gaze to the pegasus in front of him and gave her a look that was clear about what he was trying to say.

“I’m not giving it to her because I like her! It’s just... something nice for her to wear!”

Angel gestured over to a sweater that was hanging on a chair.

“Well yeah, I know it’s different than something normal to wear, give me a break!”

The bunny pointed at her, then made a pantomime of the likeness of Fluttershy, and then made a swooning pantomime.

“It’s not like that!” Dash hissed. “I know what you’re trying to do but it won’t work! So shhhh!”

A little smirk overcame Angel’s face, clearly stating that he knew something she didn’t. Now that confused her. It happened a lot with Angel giving her these looks in regards to how he knew something she should know yet didn’t. It was a mystery she wasn’t even sure how to approach. Not that she cared, mysteries like that weren’t her thing unless she really wanted it. Did she want to know? Partly, but she had no clues to go on. What was he trying to tell her? That was the real question.

“Look, I have a present for you, okay?” Dash whispered, “But I’m not giving it to you until after dinner. Maybe then you’ll shut up for once?”

Angel gave her an “I’ll consider it” look before he hopped away to go downstairs.

“Rainbow! Dinner time!” Fluttershy called from downstairs. “Come and get it!”

Feeling a mixture of nerves and eagerness, Rainbow answered the summons. She went downstairs and stood by the table, eager for some good food. Since it was a special occasion, they used the good plates and silverware that Fluttershy had inherited from her grandmother years ago. The table had a little assortment of Hearth’s Warming flare, along with two candles, one green and one red, along with a bottle of cider, two special glasses, and all of the food spread out in various dishes along the table.

It looked awesome, a mixture of an intimate setting for two and also a holiday meal.

“Have a seat, Rainbow!” Fluttershy appeared near her and delicately slid a plate of bread onto the table.

“Sure thing Flutter-oh!” Dash was caught off guard upon seeing her friend.

Much to her surprise, Fluttershy wore a beautiful dress. It was green, with a white silky trim, hugging her form perfectly and yet flowing beautifully in a flattering and modest way. She even had some tinsel in her mane set behind her ear, along with a red hair tie set into a bow.

After a few moments, Rainbow Dash realized that she was staring and closed her mouth, trying to act as if nothing was wrong.

“What do you think?” Fluttershy looked at her with a shy, sweet smile as her cheeks flushed a bit, “Do you like it?” She indicated to her dress.

“Fluttershy, you look awesome.” A big goofy grin adorned Dash’s cyan muzzle. She tried not to stare too much, despite how hard it was for her to keep her deep pink eyes from wandering.

With a growing smile, Fluttershy giggled with delight, clapping her hooves a bit, “Oh, yay! Thank you, Rainbow!” She approached her crush, quick to offer a well received nuzzle.

“D’aww, n-no need to thank me! You went and prettied yourself, I’m just saying what I see!” Replied a very blushy Rainbow Dash.

“I know, but I appreciate it very much,” cooed the pretty yellow pegasus who added a little hug to the already warm glow of the room. “Well....shall we?”

“Yeah!” Dash sat down at one end of the table, Fluttershy took her’s at the other, “Oh boy, this looks awesome! Seriously, you’re the best cook ever.”

Fluttershy giggled, looking down, “Oh...thank you... I’m glad it turned out good.”

“It always does, Flutters! You know that! Now, let’s eat!”

“Don’t you want to make a toast? Like we always do during these special occasion dinners?”

“Oh yeeeaahh...” Dash chuckled, grinning, “All right!” She poured them each a glass of cider then quickly held her glass up. “What should we toast to?”

“Um...well...to our new home, to living in Ponyville, making new friends, and our first Hearth’s Warming Eve in our new home. And... to us... to our friendship,” Fluttershy smiled as she held her glass up as well.

Rainbow Dash smiled too, “To all of that, to my awesomeness, and to you making an awesome meal, Fluttershy!”

They clinked their glasses, took a sip, then proceeded to eat. The meal passed with a sense of bliss, even with Dash occasionally devouring the food happily as if it were her last meal. But eventually she’d slowed to a more civil pace, even if just to appease Fluttershy. It was already dark outside, with only a few candles lit around the cottage to dimly illuminate it. But also, it was snowing outside, creating a beautiful, perfect image to Hearth’s Warming Eve.

Even Angel had his own little Hearth’s Warming meal over where he sat at a tiny doll-sized table, along with a little sweater and a toque on his head with his holes for his ears. And for a change, he was actually fairly well behaved. Despite the looks he often sent his owners, he didn’t throw anything nor slap them. Whether or not it was because he was indeed a jerk with a heart of gold or if it was because he didn’t want to lose out on the carrots, celery and other treats in his stocking was debatable.

After dinner, Dash helped Fluttershy with the dishes and put all the leftovers away in the fridge. The shy pony then led her friend out to sit by the tree and look out the window at the spectacular view of the snowy landscape, the snow falling from the night sky, the entire sheer beauty of Hearth’s Warming Eve.

To add to the atmosphere, a fire was lit up in the fireplace to warm up the cottage all evening. Fluttershy let the peaceful moment sink in slowly. Here she was, enjoying Hearth’s Warming Eve with her best friend. The best night of the year, and it was theirs to share as always. She nuzzled her defender, relishing the cozy rainbow mane. She grew delighted when the bold mare nuzzled her back. But as the evening grew warm with the two young ponies embrace, something felt out to Fluttershy. Here they were doing what they had always done, what could be different?

“You know, this kind of thing is usually boring,” Dash admitted, breaking the silence between them. “But I gotta admit it’s awesome with you, you know. I know I’m sappy, but I guess I can get away with it on a night like this, with only my best friend around!”

Fluttershy gave the cyan pegasus a nuzzle of thanks. “Would you like your Hearth’s Warming Eve present?

“Definitely!” Dash grinned. “Gimme gimme gimme!”

From inside her dress, Fluttershy withdrew a large envelope. She was given a quizzical look from her friend.

“Here you go, Rainbow... Happy Hearth’s warming...” Fluttershy smiled, holding it out to her.

“Um... It’s so small.” Dash commented, her desire to open presents thrown off for the moment by this small package. The light blue pegasus quickly realized she had done and a small look of panic crossed her face, the last thing she wanted was to make Fluttershy sad.

A little hurt by her friend's words, Fluttershy decided to try something “But... um... this... this is only one of your presents. I-I have another one for you too...”

“Okay. Thanks Fluttershy.” Dash gratefully took the envelope. She tore the top open and pulled out... a group shot of the Wonderbolts, with all of them having signed it! “WHOA! A signed Wonderbolts picture!?”

The bold, surprised mare rushed her shy friend, hugging her tightly. “Thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you!!!”

“N-no problem Rainbow.”

“I mean...WOW!!” Rainbow Dash grinned widely, she hugged her friend some more, then let go, abuzz with excitement. “How did you get it?! This is awesome!”

“Well...um...while you were at a weather conference in Cloudsdale... I was working one day at the veterinary clinic, and Spitfire herself was in town visiting her sister. Her sister has a parakeet, and so Spitfire brought the bird in since her sister was at work, and so I helped heal it and make it feel better. After that, she kind of owed me a favor...and so I asked her for an autographed Wonderbolts photo I could give you.”

“She did what!?! You're so awesome Fluttershy!” Dash carried her friend up into the air, pulling off a little loop the loop of joy.

She settled down in the snow, placing her smiling friend beside her. Rainbow Dash was still buzzing, the was one cool present. Fluttershy said she had another one too. Dash grinned, something told her, Fluttershy was saving the best for last.

“Oh Rainbow, it’s nothing... I just knew it would be a great gift for you, that’s all...” Fluttershy mumbled, her muzzle tinged pinkish red as thoughts of the final present took over.

“It was AWESOME! You’re the best of the best, Fluttershy! Thank you! I’m gonna go put it upstairs to frame it later!” Rainbow Dash hugged her best friend once more, and then raced inside and upstairs.

She placed the photo into a plastic sheet for safekeeping then placed the package into the drawer of her dresser for the moment. Nervousness set in as she realized that this was the inevitable moment of... giving Fluttershy the present she got for her.

The nervous mare slowly reached under her bed, Dash pulled out the now-wrapped box. If Fluttershy really didn’t like it, they could return it, right? Yeah... they would do that... But a part of her almost hoped that wouldn’t happen. She really wanted to see Fluttershy wearing it and-no! She could not think that. Not like this. The point was giving her a nice present. Nothing more.

Fluttershy sat there, waiting patiently in the snow for the return of her friend. What could her friend have gotten her this year? Hopefully it wouldn’t be something silly like the last years poorly thought out gift.

“Uh... hey! I’m back! And look at this! I found your present!” Dash grinned nervously as she hovered over to her friend and held out the badly wrapped gift. “Uh...Happy Warming Hearth’s! I mean...! Hearth’s Warming Happy! ….Darn it! Just... happy whatever! You know what I mean... Hope you like it!!!” Her cheeks were flushed by this point, and not just from the climate of the room.

Fluttershy looked at her friend. Her normally bold companion was certainly acting off. ‘It must be whatever gift is in the box... It must be something embarrassing. Extremely embarrassing for her to be like this.’ The shy animal caretaker gently reached out a hoof, accepting the gift.

Rainbow Dash looked on with wide, almost fearful eyes as her yellow friend ripped off the covering to reveal-

“Rainbow Dash!” The shock in Flutershy’s voice killed any and all thoughts that were running through the weather ponies mind.

“I’m sorry! I'm sorry, okay?!” Dash yelled, she squeezed her eyes shut and madly hoped to Celestia that her friend wouldn’t abandon her in shock. “I’m sorry, Fluttershy! I’m sorry! It was a stupid idea, wasn’t it? I’m sorry! We’ll return it tomorrow before we leave to Cloudsdale! I’m sorry....”

“Dashie....”

Rainbow opened her right eye a crack to see the warmly smiling face of her pretty yellow friend. This sent her mind into a tailspin, she had no idea how to take such a smile.

“Look up.” The soft voice of Fluttershy melodiously rang out, sending the bold mares heart into a frenzy.

With a glance up, Dash spotted her companions pink tail. She did a double take. ‘Is that... Mistletoe?’

“This is your other present, Rainbow....” Fluttershy cooed sweetly, her eyes gleaming as her smile grew. “A Hearth's Warming Eve kiss.”

Dash glanced nervously between mare and mistletoe, unable to believe her eyes. ‘This is impossible. She can’t do this after such an awful present from me...’

The pretty creamy pegasus closed the gap between them, only to plant a soft but purposeful kiss upon Dash’s lips. Rainbow Dash’s eyes went wide, stunned by the kiss Fluttershy had initiated. But her desires were slowly awakening as she embraced her best friend and kissed her back. Her wings flared open, wrapping around them.

Feeling her friend kiss back, a squeal of joy escaped the timid mare. This was a perfect idea. Passion flooded her system and she held her strong friend, unwilling to let go. She felt her yellow wings open, slowly flaring as a mirror of her desires. She wriggled as a tingling sensation flashed across her as blue and yellow feathers brushed together. This was amazing. She ran a hoof though her friends rainbow mane enjoying the play of it against her hooves.

While unsure of why Fluttershy wanted to kiss, it didn’t matter. Dash was all too happy to follow through with the suddenly awesome Hearth’s Warming tradition of the mistletoe. She ran her hoof through her companion’s soft mane, relishing the feel. As well as that, the warmth and sweetness of Fluttershy’s lips were intoxicating, it weekend her muscles, but she was all too glad to surrender to it all. The smell of her friend was even better, it added to the moment and the warmth they shared in their sweet kiss.

The pegasi held for what could easily have been a couple of minutes, lost in each other. After what seemed like forever, they parted with reluctance, and eyed each other fondly.

“I hope my pretty rainbow enjoyed her kiss.” Fluttershy cooed as she lovingly nuzzled her companion.

Grinning goofily, legs weak and her entire body on fire, Dash nodded, “Yeah.....definitely....awesome...” ‘But why...?’

Going outside to enjoy the falling snow and the cool air for a few minutes, Fluttershy settled down into the crunchy snow, bringing her multicolored mare with her. She rolled Dash gently onto her back as she slowly snuggled into the warm tummy.

“This is a perfect Hearth’s Warming...” She trailed off into bliss.

“Ohhh yeah... best Hearth’s Warming... EVER!” Rainbow Dash grinned goofily in pure bliss, unaware of the cold against her back.

For these two friends at least, all was right in Equestria.

Chapter Five: Hearths Warming Joys

Chapter Five: Love Blossoms

Ponyville, outskirts near Fluttershy's cottage

Rainbow Dash flew along the bustling streets of Ponyville, on a mission. The athlete had to make sure her best friend was alright.

'Gilda really seemed to knock her about the other day... I just hope she's okay.'

Without stopping to knock, Dash burst through the front door of Fluttershy's house. She came to a sudden halt, upon the sight of her fears confirmed, there was Fluttershy, sitting on her couch, crying. Tears stained her pretty yellow coat and it was clear from the amount of moisture that she had been this way for a while.

"Fluttershy...!" Rainbow wasted no time as she dashed over to her, sitting beside her friend on the couch. "Fluttershy, I'm so sorry!"

"R-R-Rain...bow...?" Fluttershy looked up at her with teary aquamarine eyes and lowering her hooves from her face, "You're...you're here... I... I didn't... I thought..."

"What Gilda's done to everypony was just... ugh! Terrible! Even when Pinkie was trying to be nice to her by throwing her a party! And she just...! And you! How could she be so mean to you...?! I'm sorry I didn't believe you before Flutters, back when were... I'm sorry! And now I see I was blind all this time!" Rainbow felt tears of her own pool in her eyes, but she didn't fight them back. "Darn it! Now I'm crying! Ugh! This is just... look, I'm really sorry!" The distraught cyan mare held out her forehooves, "Can you ever forgive me?"

Sniffling, Fluttershy nodded before embracing her best friend, "Oh Rainbow... of course I do! It's not your fault, it's okay... I-I just... she hurt my feelings and roared in my face... Scaring me and my little ducky friends... I'm sorry you had to see me this way."

"Darn it, don't apologize for something like that!" Rainbow shook her head, only to her special friend even tighter.

Still moments passed as Fluttershy slowly dried her teary eyes upon Dash's shoulder. Several quiet moments passed with only the sound of the shy mare's sniffing ringing out.

Suddenly, the quiet voice of Fluttershy broke the silence, "remember...we're friends. Forever. Right?"

Looking up, Dash nodded as she wiped off her own tears before brushing a few strands of Fluttershy's mane out of her eyes, "Yeah...! Duh, I remember that. Friends forever. I never forgot that, Flutters."

"Do you... also remember..." Fluttershy blushed a bit as she did her best to summon the nerves to continue. "W-when you... kissed me? ...For the first time?"

Dash's instant reaction made it clear that she did.

While they had kissed quite a few times over the years, it was their first that truly cemented them. The bold mare's cheeks darkened and she no longer looked like her normal overconfident self. Fluttershy hesitated, but as she looked into her longtime companion's beautiful cerise eyes, a warm surge of confidence overtook her mind and heart. They say that sometimes, your heart did things you yourself are scared to do. Well, now was one of those times.

Without a second thought, Fluttershy leaned in and kissed her best friend gently on the lips. All her troubles melted away at the touch of the speedster's lips and Fluttershy found the surprised mare kissing back in no time at all, with a passion to equal hers.

Angel bunny's jaw hit the ground as his caretaker continued to make out with her oldest and dearest friend. He then fainted, leaving the two connected ponies to continue on their passionate moment alone.

The impact was even greater for the two ponies involved in the kiss. Fluttershy's world disappeared from around her, nothing mattered, except the cyan mare who was kissing her back. This was mightier than ever before, it was amazing. For some reason, it almost felt like she was kissing a lover and not a friend. Her one true lover.

All the while, Rainbow Dash felt the same feelings return from when they'd shared a kiss back in their fillyhood and every kiss thereafter. Only they increased tenfold at this point. It brought with it a strong and fiery passion she never thought possible outside of her flying. Oh, but Fluttershy awakened that within her, and honestly, she loved it. She wasn't sure why her friend was kissing her, but if she didn’t know better, she would say without a shadow of a doubt that it was because the pretty yellow mare was in love.

Regardless, Dash kissed her with passion, even going so far as to lay the creamy yellow pegasus down on the couch. Much like their first kiss, upon which she had placed her on the cloud. She relished how Fluttershy moaned, bringing her forelegs around her tighter and just kissing with more passion than before!

Daringly, Dash prodded her lips with her tongue, to which Fluttershy opened her mouth to grant access. Their tongues met for the second time in their lives, gently and yet passionately engaging in a little intricate dance.

The two ponies pulled away from each other, both sporting light blushes and breathing heavily.

"Wow..." was all the young lovers could manage.

That one soft word, spoken softly as a single strand of saliva broke between them like a floating heart that opened both of their eyes to each other’s true feelings.

All Rainbow Dash could think of was one thing. That thing was the mare in her forelegs. Sweet, innocent, beautiful Fluttershy. Giving in to her desires Rainbow Dash gently moved in. She gave her waiting mare a quick lick on the muzzle, confirming her need. With a wild grin of delight, she pressed her lips against Fluttershy's.

The normally timid mare was also burning with desire as she kissed back vigorously. They quickly broke into each others mouths and began to explore the uncharted territories within. Fluttershy let out a small sensual moan as she ran her hooves through her friend's mane. As the shy mare continued her delicate dance with Rainbow, she ran a hoof gently down the cyan mares back. She reached the wings and began ruffling the powerful flight feathers eliciting a groan of pleasure from her companion, arching her back as tingles ripped along her spine.

In response, Dash reached her own hoof down to stroke it along the base of Fluttershy's wing, teasing the feathers. She growled sensually at the back of her throat at her companion's ministrations. Jolts of pleasure coursed through her body in ways she never imagined, it felt as if she were flying in a whole new kind of way. In any case, it was amazing what Fluttershy was doing to her.

Fluttershy moaned louder between kisses, now spreading her hind legs. She ran her hooves up the daredevil's back, still teasing her wings every now and then. To think that this little event of an apology and taking care of a friend led to a very heated makeout session. She wasn't complaining, this was something she had desired for quite a long time! It was true that she never forgot their first kiss, which in fact, still gave her shivers and tingles whenever she thought about it. Now to have the chance to kiss her again, in this way, with Dash fully responding in kind... it was breathtakingly amazing.

Enraptured, Dash ran both hooves down Fluttershy's sides, reaching her flank, and then going back up again to course through the soft, blossom pink mane. She couldn't believe how far this had escalated, but she was just loving it! A part of her wondered if Fluttershy would ever be up to making out with her again, and more often at that. She hoped so, for kissing Fluttershy was amazing, so thrilling! Not quite to the same level as flying, but still awesome as it always was. It also felt like something at the back of her mind was prompting her, urging her onwards. It was clear, this was much more than just a kiss between friends.

Fluttershy broke away, flustered and breathless. She gazed into those stunning cerise orbs and knew what she had to do. She inched her muzzle closer and closer.

Rainbow Dash grinned down at her, clearly happy to encourage her onwards.

This was it. She could feel a sense of courage within her heart, to finally go after what she dreamed of for a long time. Whatever it was, their kiss, or how tired she was of waiting for herself to be brave, Fluttershy couldn't stop the next words out of her mouth. "Rainbow Dash... um... I have...something to ask you."

"Yeah? Go ahead, Fluttershy! Ask it!" Dash gazed down at her with a curious grin, butterflies invaded her tummy in a frenzy of nervous activity.

Taking a breath, Fluttershy worked hard to gather her nerve.

She took another slow breath, then another.

Slowly her breathing slowed to a more considered tempo. She could feel the courage she required to ask the biggest question she had ever.

At least she had a moment to breathe and be able to gather the right words. Words that had eluded her right up until this moment. She had to do this right, to make sure she could get her point across but without going too strongly. But then again, considering what had happened between them over the years, it almost seemed silly. They kissed, made out even, flirted with each other, and just barely skirted the lines between friendship and romance on these little occasions.

But now it was time to step beyond that line. Under no uncertainty. Fluttershy was ready for it, moreso than ever.

"Rainbow... You're my best friend... and I... I... I r-really... wanted... to tell you that I... um... well I wanted to know... I..."

"Come on, tell me!" The cyan pegasus urged her, eager, almost throwing her best friend into the air in excitement.

Fluttershy squeaked, but then, just came out with it. "Rainbow Dash, will you go out with me? I mean...! Um... Do you...want to be my special somepony?"

This was not the eloquently created question the daredevil had thought her friend was going to spring upon her and in her surprise, fell off Fluttershy, onto the floor.

"What?" The surprised mare slowly picked herself up.

"Oh my gosh! Dash? Are you alright?" Fluttershy gushed as she leapt off the couch to assist her friend.

"Yeah. I'm... fine." Rainbow gazed into the stunning aquamarine eyes in front of her. "Did you just ask me to be your special somepony?"

A very meek nod was the only answer forthcoming.

In the quiet cottage, nothing moved. Fluttershy couldn't bear to think what would happen next if her best friend said no. It might spell the end of their relationship forever. Now she regretted ever having said anything, wishing she could take it back and pretend it never happened. Losing the chance at them being lovers was better than losing her best friend.

Before her panicking mind could think of anything else, a smirk slowly spread across the cyan trickster's face.

"YES!" Dash soared up into the air Fluttershy clutched tightly in her forehooves.

The duo soared around the room several times, flying at breakneck speeds.

Just before Fluttershy thought they were about to break something, the driver settled down. Dash slowly calmed herself and placed Fluttershy on the couch in front of her.

Realizing her reaction, the cyan mare blushed and rubbed the back of her neck with her hoof, "I-I mean... yes! Yeah! I think. Yeah!"

Fluttershy blinked, utterly taken aback by her reaction. Not only in the fact that she said yes, but also in how she reacted. It barely even registered at first, to which Fluttershy had to take a few moments to recollect her thoughts. Her heart raced, her stomach uncoiled, and a warm wave of absolute joy overtook her body. It was the most amazing feeling in the world. To think it made Rainbow Dash just as happy, if not happier.

With a beaming, dazzling and loving grin, Fluttershy embraced her best friend... no, her marefriend, and giggled with glee. "Oh, Rainbow! I'm so happy! ...Thank you!"

Rainbow Dash affectionately ruffled her new marefriend's mane, wearing a massive heartwarming grin upon her face. "No, Fluttershy. Thank you."

The bold mare enveloped her partner in a loving hug and gave her a nuzzle which Fluttershy was more than happy to return. They slipped into a slow kiss, relishing the taste of each other, the way everything else just... disappeared. The way the world now seemed to make more sense as they kissed and kissed and kissed. The rough week now seemed like a distant memory.

All of a sudden, a loud rumbling echoed from the bold mare's tummy and she broke off from her ministrations to rub her offending belly.

Fluttershy licked her cheek. "Is my special somepony hungry?"

"Err yea. I guess I should have had lunch before coming..." Answered a very sheepish Rainbow Dash.

Fluttershy gave her a quick peck on the cheek before walking off toward the kitchen. "Then how about I make my sweetie something special?"

A loud rumble answered the yellow mare who giggled as she disappeared around the corner.

Angel Bunny eventually recovered from having fainted out of sheer surprise. When he got up, he hopped over toward the kitchen where he smelled some food, he came across a very surprising sight. As Fluttershy was cooking, Rainbow Dash was occasionally snuggling up against her and even handing her something when she asked for it. All the while, the cyan pegasus had a big, loving grin directed right at the shy pony.

Angel couldn't believe this development, not in the slightest. His caretaker really did love the rainbow one, didn't she? He figured as much. What with how she talked about her all the time and always seemed to be somewhere else whenever doing so.

Oh well. He hoped she wouldn't forget to feed him. At least she was happy.

Regardless, he shot Rainbow Dash a very warning look. The daredevil just gave him a look that was both "Don't worry, I would never hurt her" and also "Watch yourself, buster" all at the same time.

Hm. He had to give her credit for that one.

The sweet twittering songs of birds came to her ears, a soft breeze blew, and the sweet smells of spring reached her nose. Wherever Fluttershy was right now, she didn't want to escape it, much less wake up from it. She had long since left the dream world, now awaking, but still kept her eyes closed. She did her best to go back to sleep. However that was proving to be futile, despite how warm, so comfy she felt. But then the source of warmth moved, then breathed gently, Fluttershy blinked her eyes open. She found a blue face combined with a rainbow mane just inches away from her line of vision.

Rainbow Dash was with her in her bed, sleeping peacefully, with her forelegs around her in a protective embrace. Then the amazing memories from the day before hit her like a ton of flowers. It was amazing. Fluttershy blushed as the memories of the day before were rushing back to her. It hadn't been a dream at all. Not even the part where she had asked her new fillyfriend to spend the night.

Even though Rainbow Dash had moved out of the cottage after creating her cloud home nearly two years ago, she still visited often and would spend the night on some occasions. That had frequented a little less in the past few months, especially after Twilight Sparkle had come to Ponyville.

But last night, she remembered...

She remembered how they had spent the rest of the day together, just like old times. To the point that Fluttershy just didn't want her best friend-turned-marefriend to leave.

~Flashback~

Dash came back into the cottage after her joyful flight, she stretched her wings slowly, then her legs. The flight was what she needed to get the edge and excitement off what had just happened.

But the instant she did, Fluttershy was at her fillyfriend's side, with a nuzzle and happily giggles.

"Hello Rainbow." The shy mare greeted her from the cover of the bold pony's mane.

"Hey there, snuggly. Still can't keep your hooves off me, huh?" Dash smirked as she threw a foreleg around the pretty pegasus’s shoulders. "I was only out for a few minutes, silly."

Blushing profusely, Fluttershy snuggled in. "It wasn't only a few minutes." She quietly attempted a rebuke.

It worked, since Dash chuckled at how adorable she looked when all blushy and kissed her on the cheek, "Okay, then how long was I out flying, cutie? You tell me."

"Um... too long..." The barely audible reply caused the rainbow maned pony to crack up laughing.

"Aw man, you're too much, Fluttershy!" Laughed Rainbow Dash, grinning, "Felt like too long?"

"Yes." The meek reply might as well have come from a mouse.

"You know I would never abandon you, Flutters." Fluttershy felt a strong cyan hoof ruffle her mane affectionately. "...Was I really gone that long?" She glanced at the clock as if to seek answers, but found it to be pointless, considering she didn't even know what time it was before she went out for a flight.

"Yes..." Fluttershy pouted, snuggling her more, "Rainbow...? Will you... um... well... I... um..."

The cocky mare gazed at her in confusion. "What?"

"Um... well... I-I know you moved out a few years ago and I know you haven't been too keen on being here that much lately... but I... oh, I want to spend tonight with you... would you... stay with me here tonight? Please...? If you don't mind that is..." Fluttershy managed, looking down with a blush.

"But don't you only have one bed these days?" The bold mare grinned down at her.

"Yes... but I... well... I don't mind if we... share it... that is... if you're okay with that..."

"Well it might be..." Dash considered.

Worried, Fluttershy's eyes began to glimmer sadly, "Oh... please stay here, please? I just... I've always missed you since you moved away... I miss living together."

"Well... I guess I could stay as long as you do something for me in return." The cheeky blue mare made a silly, suggestive face, eager to get a reaction from her mare before she continued.

Blushing a bit, Fluttershy looked at her curiously, "Um... okay, what is it you'd like me to do?"

"Remember my awesome gift that you never even tried on for me?" With a grin like that on the mares face, it could only be the one and only gift from nearly two years ago.

Fluttershy caught on to that, her cheeks burned as a mild panic ran through her mind. The lingerie... the exact same lingerie she had bought for herself and that Dash had gotten for her. She swallowed, feeling nervous about that, and yet... yet if it made her want to stay, and would even heat things up... she couldn't help but feel a little excited about it. Her wings were even beginning to rise. "I... I...! Um...! ….Okay, Rainbow. I'll wear it. I only ever wanted you to see me in it, anyway..."

"Awesome!" Rainbow Dash liked the sound of where that was heading. ‘Maybe we can even have some fun with it while we are at it... I wonder what it would feel like to touch Fluttershy’s- No! No! Now now! Go away dirty thoughts... Rainbow Dash doesn’t need you...’ Despite her small mental war inside, the speedster couldn’t help but entertain the thought of what she would do with Fluttershy after the cute mare was all dressed up.

Fluttershy trotted off to retrieve her unused gift when suddenly she was called to a halt by the sound of her marefriends voice.

"Hey, come back here, silly! Never mind that now, Fluttershy. I can wait." Dash chucked, a big strong blush present upon her muzzle.

"But... I..." Fluttershy pouted a little bit. "...I wanted to, Rainbow... I swear..."

Dash sauntered over to her, and brought a hoof to her cheek as she ran it along sensually, then brought it around to her neck, "Later. It will be more... fun... then." The smile on the bold mares face lightened up Fluttershy's feeling of sadness.

"I... d-didn't think... y-you would see me that way or have... desired me..." Fluttershy admitted, blushing profusely.

"Really Fluttershy? I'm not blind you know. I can see you're the most beautiful mare in all of Equestria. You've got the hottest flank around too." The grin upon Rainbow's muzzle only served to heighten the shy mares embarrassed state.

"N-No... that's not true..." Fluttershy squeaked, "There are plenty more ponies prettier than me."

"Everypony else... is..." The daredevil mare leaned in close, right up to her companions ear. "Normal. You are cute." She then delicately nibbled on the yellow mare's ear electing a squeak in pleasure and surprise. "Especially when you are shy..."

Fluttershy giggled happily, a beaming smile coming to her face, "Oh, Rainbow...! You're such a wonder..."

"Not as wonderful as you, beautiful." Dash smiled broadly, "I'm just awesome."

"Hee... Oh... Well I... um... Rainbow... I... well I wanted to say... I've wanted to wear that for you ever since you gave it to me..." The shy mare admitted, blushing profusely.

"I know. But now, we can really have some fun with it." A predatory smirk covered the bold mare's face as she stalked around her willing captive.

An intense, pleasuring heat pooled in Fluttershy's stomach as her desires were stirred yet again. Oh, as if the torture of desiring her best friend ever since she was sexually aware wasn't bad enough! Now she was all too willing to let it happen even more, especially seeing as the feelings were mutual. She blushed heavily, a shy smile upon her face. "I can't tell you how long I've wanted this, Dashie..." She uttered as a shiver of anticipation ran through her. ‘I wonder what she would look like in the one I brought?'

"Let me guess?" Dash continued to circle her mare, her rainbow tail tickling the shy pony's nose with each rotation. "For almost as long as I have?"

Fluttershy jumped in mild surprise. "What?"

"I wasn't just defending my best friend there all those times... I don't exactly want my special pony to get hurt now do I? Or pregnant..." The cheeky pegasus bumped flanks with her fillyfriend, a mischievous grin upon her face.

Fluttershy almost exploded with the heat. She trembled as her eyes followed her marefriend's every move, her cheeks burning all the more. "I... I... I didn't think you... oh, Rainbow..."

Emboldened by her marefriends behavior Dash stopped her circling to nibble her companions ear. "That's why you're the only pony I would ever let touch my hooves... or... the rest of me..." The tone in her voice implied where she was headed.

Oh, now that just did it. Fluttershy wasn't sure if it was because of her repressed sexual desires, or the heat of the moment, or both, but something in her just snapped like a potato chip. Whatever it may have been, all she knew was that she couldn't hold back anymore.

Turning to face the cyan pegasus, she brought her forelegs around her neck and kissed her, deeply. Passionately. She savored the moment like it would last forever.

Two sets of wings rose in unison with each other as the two lovers continued to deepen their kiss. Fluttershy moaned at the back of her throat as she ran her hooves through the ever-wonderful prismatic mane she loved so much. She then prodded Dash's lips with her tongue, gently, but with precision, begging for entrance into her sweet cavern.

Rainbow replied with a sensual growl of her own, allowing entrance for her friends tongue into her mouth.

Exploring her fillyfriend's mouth and marking the growing-familiar territory. Dash tasted wonderful, like the dinner they'd had earlier with the tint of apple pie they'd had for dessert. She ran her hooves along the cyan mare's sides, gently rubbing her powerful wings.

Rainbow replied with several powerful beats from her taut wings, continuing to blissfully explore the inside of her friends mouth.

Sensual moans escaped between kisses as the heat rose slowly, like a building volcano. The creamy yellow pegasus lowered her hooves down to her marefriend's flank, especially over her cutie mark. To feel it this way excited her all the more, which made her own body tremble, the heat coiling even more intensely within her stomach.

Parting from her lips, though reluctantly, Dash chuckled and then lay kisses along Fluttershy's neck. She earned soft moans in return, to which only encouraged her to continue.

"Oh Rainbow..."

With a delighted grin plastered across her muzzle, Dash kissed, licked and nibbled along the creamy yellow neck, savoring Fluttershy's sweet, wonderful scent. She trembled with pleasure at the feel of Fluttershy's hooves running along her body, causing her wings to stiffen all the more.

Breathing labored, the timid pony held her longtime companion closer as soft moans escaped her, overtaking her entire being. Was this happening? Was it really leading somewhere? Oh, it didn't matter, her mind was clouded with pleasure. Pure bliss. All she wanted was the pony in her embrace, to love her completely.

Gently taking hold of her face, Fluttershy brought Dash into another kiss. This time, by some kind of feat of strength, the creamy yellow pegasus gently but still thoroughly lowered her partner to the floor, straddling her. Not once did their passionate, heated liplock break as their tongues and lips clashed hungrily.

Fluttershy slid slowly down the moaning pegasus, nibbling and kissing her belly softly before continuing downwards. Fluttershy's nose brushed against something causing her to pause her ministrations.

"Ngh-! Fluttershy...!" Dash moaned, trembling, wondering why her marefriend had stopped.

Fluttershy gently licked the hardened bud, all the while touching its twin with her hoof. Earning louder moans from the pegasus beneath her, she gently latched her mouth onto the nipple.

Dash groaned, allowing Fluttershy to spread her hind legs as the yellow mare settled down, straddled over the hindquaters of the mare she loved. Light blue legs parted further to allow even greater access as the yellow mare excitedly continued her work. There was a part of her mind telling her that Fluttershy had to stop, the time just wasn't quite right for this! She knew where this was going, she knew the minute Fluttershy kissed her a few moments or so ago. As much as she wanted nothing more than to "roll in the hay" with her, there was that nagging voice at the back of her mind telling her to wait until a more special time.

Even if Fluttershy's pleasuring ministrations on her breasts were clouding her mind more and more. It was impossible to fight it, since she wanted it too. Hay, the fact that Fluttershy wanted her just as long, just as badly, was pretty awesome to think about and yet again making it harder to stop her.

"Fluttershy...!" Rainbow Dash moaned.

Rainbow Dash gazed down at her lover with glazed, half-lidded eyes. This wasn't good. She knew that if Fluttershy went on, and went lower, it would only lead to one thing. There was little enough space between her breasts and marehood and all it would take was for Fluttershy to lower her head and it would be all over. If this was how hot it felt for her now, she could scarcely imagine how it would feel when the shy mare reached her nethers. As much as she wanted that, now was not the time.

"P-please... Fluttershy."

The yellow mare smiled brightly up at her with a curious look, slowly licking her chops in anticipation for what was about to come.

"Please... stop."

"What?" Fluttershy stared in unbelief at the pegasus she had just been about to pleasure in one of the most intimate ways possible between mares.

"Stop..." Dash's voice trembled, but she managed, "Believe me, I want it too. But shouldn't I... I don't know, take you to dinner first or something?"

A look of panic, shame, and disappointment overcame Fluttershy's face. She whimpered, about to move away to go crawl into a corner and hide. But soon she did, Dash's forelegs gently reached out and held her there, before bringing her up to embrace her better.

"I'm sorry..." Fluttershy whimpered again in shame, "I got carried away... I just wanted you so much and I let the heat of the moment over take me."

"Hey, come on! Don't worry about it! I gotta say, I didn't think you had it in you, but you really managed to take me by surprise!" The cyan pegasus admitted with a laugh, "It was still awesome, Fluttershy. But seriously, I gotta take you out on a date first. We should do this when it's special. I know that's sappy, but I don't care. You deserve... well, the best." The bold mare locked eyes with her partner, determined to let her know just how much she cared.

Sniffling, a sweet tearful smile overcame Fluttershy's face as she nuzzled the cyan plush ball. Though still disappointed, she felt relieved, and very touched by the sweet sentiment.

"Don't worry Fluttershy. I promise... I'll make you mine some night soon." Rainbow Dash gazed into her mare’s eyes with a completely serious look upon her face that carried all the love she could muster in the moment of extreme intimacy.

Fluttershy's wings fluttered with excitement. "Really?" She squeaked.

Dash chuckled rather loudly making Fluttershy realise she probably sounded too excited at the prospect, so did her best to calm down. Her wings still fluttered lightly as Rainbow Dash wrapped her forelegs around her, nuzzling her cheek.

"Really," Rainbow Dash chuckled. "Hey, Fluttershy?"

"Yes?"

Looking into her marefriend's gorgeous teal eyes, Dash reached a hoof up to gently stroke her cheek, and smiled sweetly at her. "I love you, Fluttershy."

Fluttershy let out a squeak of joy, hugging her marefriend back. "I love you too, Rainbow Dash."

~End of Flashback~

Fluttershy beamed, giggling at the sweet memory of them having admitted that they loved each other. What a liberating, beautiful feeling it had been! She sighed dreamily, holding her hooves over her heart, and glanced out the window. She could see Celestia's sun having long since risen in the cloudy sky, hear the birds singing, and the soft breeze yet again. It looked to be a beautiful day!

When she turned her head to face her partner, she was surprised to find a pair of cerise eyes looking back at her.

"Oh!"

"Good morning, beautiful." Rainbow Dash lovingly kissed her fillyfriend on the forehead.

Fluttershy sighed dreamily again, her smile returning, "Good morning, Rainbow..."

"What were you thinking of there, Flutters?" Dash slipped up beside her pretty yellow mare, slowly sliding all four hooves past her and locking them both in an embrace once more.

"Oh..." Fluttershy giggled, blushing a bit, "I was just so glad that yesterday wasn't a dream. I feel so happy... I... how long were you awake?"

Dash giggled at the memory. "Not long... You almost went too far there didn't you?"

Blushing all the more, Fluttershy hid her face in her neck, "Dash...are you never going to let me live that down?"

"Well... maybe... but it's so much fun." Dash grinned mischievously at her bashful companion.

The creamy yellow pegasus pouted.

"You are." The cyan mare licked the yellow muzzle in front of her, breaking her marefrined's sad face with a giggle. “And I gotta say... I never expected my teats to get suckled...”

"Um..." Fluttershy began, completely embarrassed by her own daring actions.

The shy mare looked away a little, unable to meet her mare’s eyes. "W-what do you want to do today, if you're not too busy?"

"Well..." Dash drew her shy companion in with a powerful wing. "I was thinking you and I could go on a little date. We should probably tell our friends too. Then... Well... I'm sure we could find something..." The bold pegasus wrapped herself around Fluttershy, tickling her nose with a cyan feather.

Giggles of delight escaped as Fluttershy beamed, "Oh, Rainbow! That would be wonderful! ...Yes...Yes...we should tell our friends...oh, they'll be so happy for us! I mean...well, they've always teased us about being a couple..."

Immature giggles escaped the trickster. "I guess they have. How about we prove them right?"

"Okay." Fluttershy delicately licked her mare, wrapping a wing over her too.

"You nervous?"

"A little... but... I have faith in them... they're our friends."

Dash grinned, kissing her beloved on the nose, "That's my cute filly. Be a big brave mare for your marefriend."

Giggling, Fluttershy smiled brightly at her encouragement, "For you, my love...I'll do my best."

Dash leapt out of bed and saucily waltzed out the door, giving her marefriend a sly wink before departing. Fluttershy blinked, but then hurried out after her.

Later that morning, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy had joined their friends for a picnic lunch out in the fields near town. It was a little potluck sort of thing, where they all brought the needed materials or food, all set up on a checkered blanket on the grass near a willow tree. Along for the ride was a very happy Spike, glad to be included in their little activities today.

It was perfect timing, considering the events of yesterday and their plans to tell their friends of their new relationship development. At least, when the moment would be right, considering that they were trying to find a good lead-in for it. While Dash was happy to just announce it like that, Fluttershy said it would be best if they simply waited until a good moment to share it would come up and go from there. Since she wanted to help make this easier and not scare her away from it, Dash agreed.

As was the norm, Fluttershy was cuddled up next to her best friend while Dash did her best to ignore the public affection.

"I just can't believe what a meanie pants she was!" Pinkie exclaimed, having been in the middle of ranting on about the recent incidents with Gilda the Griffin. "Not even my super duper awesome party worked!"

"I'll say," Dash agreed, rolling her eyes, "I don't know who she thought she was, but she is not my friend!"

"How did you even meet her, Rainbow?" Twilight queried curiously.

"It was at Flight Camp," Rainbow Dash shrugged a bit, looking toward Fluttershy with a little wink. "Fluttershy and I were still in Flight School, and so for the summer our parents signed us up for Flight Camp. A lot of flying creatures go to Flight Camp, mostly ponies. But I guess it’s not too uncommon to find others like griffins. So Gilda was one of them. Fluttershy fell sick with a cold during one weekend, and even though I was trying to take care of her, I got bored and wanted to go outside and do all the fun stuff!"

"Rainbow, you know I encouraged you to go outside even if I wasn't feeling well," Fluttershy encouraged, as she nuzzled the storyteller.

With a chuckle, Dash nodded and nuzzled her back, "Yeah, I know! Anyway, so I went out to play, and I saw Gilda showing off some tricks to her group. I thought it was pretty cool, especially since I never saw a Griffin before! So during lunchtime, when I was on my to bring Fluttershy some food, I found Gilda on the way and told her that her tricks were awesome. She saw my cutie mark, and I told her how I got it! After that we showed off tricks to each other, teamed up for events, and were just fast friends after that!"

"Considering the circumstances, I'm not surprised!" Rarity said, shaking her head.

"Since she lived far off in the Griffin territories, she had to leave after Flight Camp was over," Dash went on. "We did keep in touch through letters here and there, but after a while we went on with our lives. There were some issues going on, I don't know the details about all that. Something boring about her dad,  the griffin tribes and some dumb key."

"Was she always so super meanie weanie?" Pinkie wanted to know.

"Eh, only to those she didn't think was 'cool', really," Dash shrugged. "Kinda like she did yesterday."

"Can't say I didn't see that one coming," Twilight remarked.

"How 'bout Fluttershy?" Questioned Applejack.

"Oh..." Fluttershy mumbled, "I tried to get along with her, but she was always mean to me whenever Rainbow wasn't around. She said if I told Rainbow... something bad would happen."

"What?!" Rainbow Dash cried out, shocked that she had never heard about any such incidents, "Fluttershy...! Why didn't you tell me?!"

"I was scared, and then after... it didn't matter anymore after she left," the creamy yellow pony admitted shamefully, looking down at the blanket.

"Well Ah cain't blame ya there, sugarcube," Applejack said sympathetically, "Sometimes we don't tend ta think o' that kinda thing after it's over. But ya still should 'o told her 'bout it."

"Applejack is quite correct, dear," Rarity agreed, "I think you should have at least told a counsellor or a nurse about it if not Rainbow Dash back then, and you still should have told her anyway."

"I know..." The shy yellow mare admitted, placing her head in her forehooves and staring at the ground. "I'm sorry I didn't tell you... she didn't hurt me physically... she just called me names and told me to stay away from you..." Fluttershy admitted, pulling back a little from her fillyfriend as she spoke.

"Sure explains why she asked me why I hang out with you..." Dash admitted, only to hold her mare closer, "Hey, don't worry about it, pal! You don't have to worry about her anymore, ever again."

"Look at you two there, aren't you both just little darlings. You could make such a cute couple." Rarity commented, her eyes sparkling.

The rest of the gang giggled at the little remark, to which even Twilight smiled at, despite not quite catching on.

"Rainbow and Fluttershy? Really?"

"Well dear, when they moved to Ponyville a few years ago, together I might add, they were usually quite close," Rarity explained, giggling. "It was rather adorable, especially with the chemistry they had. So, you can see we tease them about it from time to time."

"First time Ah saw 'em, they was standin' side-by-side as they walked, glued ta each other, practically," Applejack recalled.

"And they kissed during the party I invited them to!" Pinkie piped up, grinning widely. "They were eating taffy and ate their way along it and then it was kissy time!"

"Hey, chuckleheads, guess what?" Rainbow threw in, smirking, "We actually are dating."

"What?" Rarity stared at the young couple unable to believe what the light blue prankster had just said.

"I was right all along! Party time!" Pinkie almost went into orbit with glee.

"It's about time you two came out. It's been pretty darn clear for a while now you two." Applejack remarked, snickering, "Ah saw it all along."

"Wow," Twilight blinked, taking this all in for a moment, "It's odd, I'm almost not surprised and yet, it's pretty shocking. Well, a lot of ponies wouldn't think it'd work, but I think that's up to you two to decide." She smiled.

"Dear, how long has this been going on for?" Rarity inquired, she just had to have the latest and realizing that they were telling the truth, she couldn't resist delving.

"Um... since... yesterday..." Fluttershy admitted, cheeks flushed.

"Only yesterday?!" Rarity gasped.

"After the whole stuff with Gilda, yeah, I had to make sure Fluttershy was okay," Dash shrugged.

"I remember! She made Fluttershy run away! Oh, I'm sorry, Flutters!" Pinkie now dashed over and hugged her friend. "That was so meanie weanie of her!"

"O-Oh, it's... it's okay now, Pinkie... thank you," Fluttershy managed, patting the pink Earth pony's back gently. "It was also bad memories of fillyhood, anyway."

"You poor thing. Why didn't you tell us?" Rarity asked, joining in the hug.

"Well...Rainbow was so happy to see her old friend again..." Fluttershy admitted, digging her hoof into the picnic blanket a bit, "And I didn't want to rock the boat. So I just didn't want to ruin anything. I even... well, thought maybe she changed and was just having a bad day... I didn't want to bother anypony about it."

Twilight smiled and joined the hug too, "Well I don't know about everypony else, but you seem to be fine now."

A soft, sweet blush overcame Fluttershy's cheeks yet again, "I feel wonderful."

"Thanks to yours truly!" Dash winked, joining the hug. "Hey, want to know the kicker? Fluttershy asked me to be her special somepony!"

"Get outta town!" Applejack's jaw dropped, her eyes going wide, "Fluttershy? Ya did?"

"Hee... I did..." Fluttershy giggled meekly, ecstatic as she gazed happily at her friends.

"Goodness, darling! I have to say you surely have come a long way in being assertive!" Rarity said with surprise, and then smiled. "Well, I have to say I'm very proud of you for that."

"Oooh oooh! Did you make the first move, too?!" Pinkie asked, grinning widely.

"...Yes..." Confirmed the shy pegasus, burrowing under her marefriend's wing.

"She did, all right!" Rainbow Dash snickered, keeping her wing over the shy and nervous pegasus in a comforting manner, "So yeah, she's mine now! All of those lovesick ponies who want her can SUCK IT!"

"Now really! That's just uncouth! ...Though I suppose I can't blame you for feeling such a thing..." Rarity mumbled, shaking her head. "I know how it can be when you are the pony everypony wants!"

"Riiiight..." Applejack mumbled dryly, shaking her head.

"I'm back!" Spike came trotting back, his arms full of gems, "I remembered there were some gems buried out in the field near here! Did I miss anything?"

"A little..." Twilight giggled.

"Let's just say Fluttershy and I are together!" Rainbow winked at him, grinning.

Spike dropped the pile of gems he was carrying a mixture of shock and joy radiating from him, "Whoa! Really?! You guys? You and Fluttershy?"

"You bet!" Dash now hugged Fluttershy and nuzzled the blushing pony.

"...Wow... didn't see that one coming," Spike admitted, whistling a little.

"Why, Spike! You found some gems! How delightful!" Rarity beamed, now trotting over and inspecting them. "Mmm-hmmm...yes! They are in wonderful condition!"

"Let me see," Twilight lowered her horn toward the gems, inspecting their quality as well, "Yep! They are in good condition! Good work finding them, Spike!"

"What can I say? A dragon like me likes gems in his tummy!" Spike patted his scaly stomach.

"Ooohh! This one!" Rarity levitated an emerald, inspecting it, "I have been looking for a gem such as this one for a dress I am currently working on, and it's absolutely perfect! Oh, dear Spikey Wikey, may I have this one? If you would like it replaced, I can certainly give you another gem from my storeroom, but this one is unique! I must have it!"

Melting under the affections of the alabaster unicorn, Spike handed over the requested gem without argument. Fluttershy giggled, you could just about see the love hearts wafting off the infatuated baby dragon.

"Thank you, dear Spikey-wikey!" Rarity giggled with glee. "I simply cannot thank you enough! Come by the boutique later this afternoon and I shall have your replacement gem!"

"Nah... you don't need to, it's fine..." Spike managed, his cheeks pink.

"Now now, dear, I insist! You were generous to give me such a lovely little gift I needed, I surely see no reason not to repay you!"

A wishful look appeared upon the baby dragons face.

Getting an idea, Fluttershy cleared her throat, "Actually, Spike... since you're going to the Grand Galloping Gala... you're going to need a suit, right?"

Snapped out of his stupor, the small dragon blinked, "Well, yeah. Why?"

Catching on, Twilight smiled, "I seem to remember that your old suit is too small for you, isn't it?"

"Yeah..." Spike looked a bit puzzled as to where they were going with this.

"Well, Rarity, would you be willing to make a nice suit for him?" Fluttershy suggested.

Rarity's azure eyes lit up with delight! "Why, yes! That's a brilliant idea! A perfect little favor! What do you say, dear Spike? Shall you come to the boutique so that I may work out a suit that is to your liking? I shall need your measurements and such, of course."

"Yeesss..." Spikes eyes shone, it was almost too good to be true.

"I'll see you then." Rarity slowly waltzed her way back over to her spot on the blanket. She carefully set her new gem down between her forehooves in a protective manner.

"Alright everypony, how about we have some lunch now?"

Out of nowhere, Pinkies party cannon appeared in her hooves, it fired, startling everypony else. She rolled onto the blanket giggling.

"Good gracious, Pinkie!" Rarity cried, having nearly let go of her new gem, "What on earth was that about?!"

"Party cannon fun, of course!" Pinkie grinned widely.

"Pinkie Pie... you're sooooo random!" Dash laughed, shaking her head as she left the blanket to go and comfort Fluttershy, who had scurried off a good few feet away from it in suprise.

"Random is my middle name!" Giggled the pink Earth pony as she hugged a blushing Twilight.

Covered in streamers and confetti, Spike shook it off himself, "I knew I should've stayed in bed today."

"Rarity grabbed the sulking dragon in with a forehoof, and brought him into a loose hug. "There, does that make my Spikie Wikey all better now?"

He gave his crush a hug back. "Heaps better. Thanks Rarity!"

The two settled down together, sharing the wonders of the collective gem collection as they sat opposite the two snuggling pegasi. Spike stole a quick glance at what the two lovers were in the middle of. He grinned to himself as the two pegasus ponies shared a quick passionate kiss. He imagined what it would be like if that were him and Rarity.

"Ya know... Ah' almost think we might have ourselves two couples here Twi."

The lavender unicorn paused mid mouthful to glance between the two groups. "Well that would be a dream come true for Spike. But I'm now sure I can imagine what will happen once he grows up. Dragons get a lot bigger than ponies do."

Applejack looked thoughtful for a moment, biting her lip, "Yeah...yer right. Do ya know about tha growth rate of a dragon?"

Twilight shook her head, "I'm afraid not. But I assume it may be that they too develop at different rates... to an extent. However, he's only a few years younger than the rest of us, in terms of age. If he were a pony, he'd be the same size as us, pretty much. But since he's a baby dragon and they seem to grow slower than ponies, that seems to be the factor."

"...Ah heard in some o' them there folk tales that dragons live a long time," the farm pony said thoughtfully, "Is that true? Could he outlive Rarity? An' all of us?"

"...I don't know," admitted Twilight, shaking her head again, "I wish I understood dragons better, but Spike is the only true source I have."

"Well then... Ah' guess there's really only one way to find out. Ah' only hope it doesn't break the young guy's heart. It's made of gold on that dragon." Astutely observed the farmer as she eyed the youngster.

Twilight smiled, it was nice to hear other's say such nice things about him. Especially coming from the element of honesty herself. It helped make all those years of raising him seem all the more worth it.

"Ohh! I know. How about have a massive party tonight!?" Pinkie seemed to spring out of nowhere despite having been securely at Twilight’s side mere moments ago. "We have to have a party for Fluttershy and Dashie. Couples party!" She bounced high into the air.

"Um, Pinkie, don't you think you should consult them about it first?" Twilight suggested, looking uneasy.

"Why would I do that silly? It's not as if they would ever say no to a Pinkie party."

"If ya' say so. But ah' still think ya'll should ask them first." Added Applejack as she watched the pair of lovebirds.

Pinkie bounced over to the huddled up pairs. "Party next week! I was going to hold it tonight, but I'm super busy, and I have so many obligations and other parties this week... But I think I can pencil your couples party in two weeks time!" She overflowed with excitement. "Don't you ponies worry. Your auntie Pinkie will take care of everything!"

Fluttershy, overhearing that statement, rolled her eyes slightly, "I'm older than you, Pinkie."

Ignoring the shy mare's statement, Pinkie bounced off to set up for the big event.

"Well Ah' guess that's one way to break up a picnic." Applejack commented as she selected a sandwich from the food that was laid out in the middle of the blanket.

"I agree with you there," Twilight said, levitating a bagel sandwich over to her paper plate with her magic.

Fluttershy giggled with delight when Rainbow Dash offered her a cherry to eat. She opened her mouth, allowing her marefriend to place it on her tongue. "Hee! Thank you." She ate it, removing the stem from her mouth in doing so.

With a proud grin upon her muzzle, the bold mare reached over and grabbed a delicious looking hay sandwich. She carefully picked it up in her jaws, offering a bite to her fillyfriend. A giggling Fluttershy took a dainty bite, touching noses with her champion in the process. As if to mirror their moment with the taffy, Fluttershy slowly nibbled her way through the delicious morsel, locking lips with a grinning Rainbow Dash. The two fell into a slow passionate kiss that was met by 'awww's from all their friends.

"Oh, do get a room, you two!" Rarity giggled, mock teasing them.

"Don't ya encourage 'em!" Applejack laughed, shaking her head.

Rainbow Dash leaned in to whisper into her lover's ear. "We can get that room later."

Fluttershy giggled as thoughts of what they could do began to pop into her head. Her wings slowly fluttered as an outward sign, causing her to be given a quizzical look from Twilight.

"Are you okay, Fluttershy? Do you need to go flying for a bit?" Twilight queried curiously.

"Y-yes please." The blushing mare slowly pulled herself up. "Um... Rainbow... Could you... um..."

"Yes. I'll come with you." The powerful athlete stood bolt upright, ready for flight. “Your good pal, the amazing Rainbow Dash is always ready for fun in the sky!”

Joy was written all over the pretty yellow mare's face as she stood next to her fillyfriend, gazing at her other friends. After a moment cyan wings spread and Dash motioned for her marefriend to do the same. They took off, quickly leaving the others far behind.

Rarity giggled delightedly, shaking her head, "Darling, you do realize that Pegasus wings tend to react to certain emotions?"

"Yes. and if that's them in public... I really don't ever want to walk in on them when they are alone..." Twilight shook her head, doing her best to clear her thoughts as knowledge from her studies entered her head.

"Ah hear ya there, sugarcube," agreed Applejack. “I guess they jus’ have all them years of wantin’ to be together to make up for...”

"I agree. One can only imagine how comfortable they must already must be, having known each other all these years." Rarity continued to voice her observations. "Especially taking into consideration of the fact that they had no problem kissing each other before they were even dating!"

"Wow," Twilight whistled a little, "I can't imagine, and yet, well, Princess Celestia always said that everypony does what works."

Turning her attention to the young dragon by her side, Rarity offered him a quick nuzzle before speaking. "Does my darling Spikey Wikey want to come back to the shop with me? I'm sure I could make you something absolutely adorable for tonights party."

The excited dragon turned to his mother-figure, seeking permission.

With a knowing giggle, Twilight nodded, "Of course, Spike. Just don't stay out too late. We still have the party to attend at eight."

"Thanks Twilight!" Spike lept to his feet, trying to drag his crush up with him. "Come on Rarity. Lets go." As an afterthought, the excited dragon scooped up his small collection of gems, popping one in his mouth as he did so.

The duo headed off, leaving just the two remaining mares sitting side by side at the otherwise abandoned picnic site.

"So Twi... Do you have any special somepony in mind?"

Snorting, Twilight shook her head, "Of course not! I've been too busy with my studies, and I only started making friends when I first moved to Ponyville and met you girls. So, I didn't exactly squeeze a love interest. ...Besides, I never had a crush before," she sighed a bit, "I don't even really think about it...or know what to think about it. I mean, sure, seeing Rainbow and Fluttershy like this, all happy together, is just wonderful. I'm so happy for them! But it's just not something I was thinking of. And besides, I'm from Canterlot... Pretty much every female there places importance on finding a husband and more often than not, having children. That's all well and good if they want that, but I'm not ready for that."

The farmer paused her meal as she digested the information. "Wait... What?"

"What, what?" Twilight looked to Applejack with confusion. "What's wrong?"

"Nuthin. Ah' just almost thought that yer was going to say you were a fillyfooler like Fluttershy and Dash here are."

The lavender unicorn blinked a few times, staring at her friend, before looking down at her food, "I actually don't even know if I like mares or stallions."

Silence passed for a few moments as they both considered the topic at hoof.

"Ya' know... there's only one way to find out." The confident orange mare sounded like she was ready to do something decisive, something that might be a little uncomfortable for the purple unicorn even.

Choosing to set aside her ill at ease feelings, Twilight continued her meal in silence. Applejack meanwhile watched her unicorn friend at the corner of her eye on occasion, but also went back to eating her lunch. Who knew what the future would hold, indeed.

Chapter Six: Sisters and Lovers

Chapter Six: First Date Joys

Ponyville

The two weeks till Pinkie’s party had sped by. It was now the day of the party, the very party Pinkie had promised to throw. All in celebrating Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy's newfound couplehood. Which continued to flourish beautifully over the course of the two short weeks as the two grew closer than ever. They spent a little more time together when they were free, with Dash usually going over to visit Fluttershy and helping her out at the cottage. The other popular course of action was for Fluttershy to join her new fillyfriend for naps on the lower-flying clouds.

Hormones, however, continued to manifest between the two pegasi. Try as they might, their desires for each grew daily.

Tonight, of course, was also going to be their first date. Before the party, which in itself was going to be the end of their first date with a bang.

'Oh yeah, I'm doing it! I'm gonna take Fluttershy on a date. A real date! She's gonna love it! ….But what am I gonna do? I can take her someplace she likes...but where? What else can we do?' Wondered the speedy blue pegasus, still unable to decide the best for their first official date.

Dash looked over at her fillyfriend. The yellow pegasus was flying along with a dreamy look on her face that suggested her mind was elsewhere. Rainbow Dash grinned as she thought of a fun idea to snap the mare out of her daydream. She drifted across the yellow pony's flight path, pulling back until her tail tickled the pretty mare's chin.

Fluttershy giggled, snapping out of her lovestruck stupor and looking to her companion, "Yes, Rainbow? Did you need something?"

The grinning trickster continued to allow her tail to flutter about in front of her mare's face. "How about I take you out to dinner tonight on a date. Then we can go to Pinkie's party."

Eyes going wide, Fluttershy beamed brightly and nodded, her cheeks flushing, "Yes! Yes! Oh, Rainbow, I'd love to!" She came forward and wrapped her in a loving hug, mid flight.

Dash flicked around in the sky, grabbing her surprised partner in a pair of protective forehooves. The two lovers fell into a deeper hug as cyan wings propelled them both onwards. To anypony below, it was an odd sight with what appeared to be one pegasus glued to the underside of her lover in a hug that allowed the stronger flyer to propel them onwards, solo.

Despite how nervous she felt, Fluttershy knew to trust her marefriend and longtime best friend. She knew Rainbow Dash would never let anything bad happen to her, and trusted her immensely in the sky. She relaxed, even enjoyed the little trip, as she basked in the wonderful warmth and security, yet fun, of her beloved's protective embrace.

The two pegasi gazed out across the peaceful land as Dash's powerful wings continued to propel them onwards. Fluttershy began to wonder where they could be going that was so high and far from Ponyville.

"Rainbow... Um... Where are we going?"

"Fluttershy, pal, do you trust me?" The spectrum maned mare gazed into her lover’s eyes for a few moments as she flew, waiting patiently for the truth.

Fluttershy nodded, allowing her gaze to slip back to the landscape below in awe.

With a grin, Dash held her mare tighter as she spotted a perfect place to start. An open field. She propelled toward it, keeping Fluttershy safe in her grip. "Then we're going to get us started on this date thing! So, Fluttershy my love, hope you're ready for some mind-blowing tricks!"

Blushing, eyes wide at the affectionate term of endearment, Fluttershy all but melted in her hold by now, smiling goofily, "Of course, Rainbow my dear..."

After a couple of hours of the cyan mare showing off to her lover and cheerleader she slowly descended to the ground, huffing and puffing and looking like she needed a break.

With an ever so slightly tired swagger in her step, Rainbow Dash strode toward her partner. "Your turn to fly us home."

A shocked, almost blank look met those words. Fluttershy had no idea where they were or how to get home. There was also no way she could carry her more powerful and heaver companion.

Dash cracked up in a fit of giggles that rapidly turned into a full on laughing bout as she rolled around on the soft grass.

Fluttershy stared down at her mare in shock, 'What part of this is funny?'

"It's okay, cute stuff, I'm only messing with you! Aw man, you should've seen your face!" The laughing hyena of a pegasus managed as she held onto her stomach and pointed at her companion in her filly-like glee.

"...Oh..." Fluttershy blinked a few times, inwardly berating herself for not having known better than that.

But as she watched her fillyfriend topple backwards onto the ground, laughing and holding her tummy, a funny little idea sparked into her mind. A little something that occurred a lot when they were fillies. Oh yes, she could get the drop on her now! Time to best the trickster at her own game, so to speak.

Fluttershy giggled and lunged forward, pouncing on Rainbow Dash. The two rolled around along the ground, at least until Fluttershy effectively pinned her to the ground below. Oh yes, worked every time.

"Hee! Pinned you," Fluttershy smiled.

Dash kissed the lovestuck mare's nose, sending her into a tailspin of delight. The bold mare then promptly flipped her off. "No you didn't. Nopony ever beats the amazing Rainbow Dash."

"Yes I do." Fluttershy smirked lightly. A sight surprising to see on her, but not exactly rare. She crawled toward her suggestively, licking her lips, and placing a hoof on her stomach, "But I know many ways to subdue you, my Dashie..."

"Try me." Never one to back down, Rainbow Dash laid out the challenge.

"I will..." Fluttershy giggled, taking the challenge. She crawled up her mare's body, and proceeded to nibble her neck, lick it, and lay butterfly kisses along there.

The receiver of her affection giggled and squirmed under the sensual assault. "Oh you are so asking for it Flutters!"

"Asking for what?" Fluttershy cooed innocently, as she brought her hooves down Rainbow's sides and gently massaging the base of her wings.

Before Dash had time to respond, Fluttershy lent down to the plush cyan tummy of her fillyfriend. With a light smile playing across her face she proceeded to blow the biggest raspberry she could. Loud, happy laughter rang out across the otherwise quiet zone.

"N-Noooo you don't!"

"Yes I do!" Fluttershy giggled, and blew another raspberry into her tummy.

Dash flung her forehooves over her belly in a protective manor continuing to laugh. At that moment, Fluttershy looked up for a moment as she stopped her attack, then... marveled. Normally not a lot of ponies would describe Rainbow Dash as "cute", although she definitely was in her own kind of way. But right now, Fluttershy couldn't recall having ever seen her look more adorable than she did when she was a little filly. The way she was lying with her back on the ground, her hooves over her stomach in defense, her mouth hanging open in a huge joyful smile, panting, her cheeks pink, and her eyes glazed over with love for her mare. Adorable. Fluttershy couldn't believe it.

"Oh no you don't." The quiet mare gently reached out to brush the defenses out of the way.

"Noooo! Stop it!" Dash cried, trying to protect herself again. "You win, okay? You got me!"

"Nope!" Fluttershy giggled, still trying to pry her hooves away.

As a last line of defense, the bold mare grabbed her Flutters and pulled them into a quick embrace. Dash smirked, knowing she had managed to stop her butter-yellow pegasus. Especially since Fluttershy giggled and snuggled into her, happily having given up.

"Okay Snuggly. Your time's up."

Fluttershy pulled away with a confused look upon her face. A smirking blue mare pulled the confused pony back, bringing their lips together. Although confused for a moment, it was only a moment before a very happy Fluttershy kissed her back.

Dash giggled mid kiss, running her hooves down through the pink mane and toward the base of the fluttering yellow wings. In response, Fluttershy trembled a bit and moaned between kisses, especially when their mouths opened simultaneously to allow their tongues to meet. Giggling immaturely, the bold mare made the first move, pressing their lips back together and invading her lover's mouth in a speedy manor, seeking to explore all she could.

Fluttershy in turn ran her hooves down her mare's body as well, massaging the base of her wings once again, this time doing her best at preening the feathers as well. Dash lightly gasped as hoof brushed against wing. Getting preened by her marefriend was amazing, especially when mixed with the heat of their make out session.

It was getting so hard to control herself, Fluttershy just about wanted them to make love right here. Right now. But was this really the place for it? On one hoof, that was exciting, as well as remote and open in the middle of a large field. Things were getting heated, it would certainly escalate into that if they let it. But it felt as if there was something missing from this picture.

Fluttershy tried to ignore her desires, despite that her nether regions quivered ever so slightly with need. She just hoped she wasn't getting wet, let alone hoping that Dash wouldn't feel it.

Meanwhile, Dash could in fact feel that her marefriend was getting a little wet in the nether regions as the normally shy pony moved around on top on top of her, softly groaning. Knowing exactly where things were going, she withdrew from their deep kiss. The pony on top immediately gave her a pitiful look, as if hungover with desire.

Licking her face gently, the multi colored pegasus nuzzled her overly excited marefriend. "Hey Flutters. How about we save it for later?"

"I'm trying..." Fluttershy mumbled, nuzzling her back, "I just can't help it... I'm sorry..."

"Well I'm just dying to see my pretty marefriend in that prezzie I gave her two years ago. Remember that awesome gift?"

Fluttershy giggled, blushing a bit, "Of course. And I said I would wear it for you, and I will..."

"Right! Then how about we go for a swim and cool off? Then I'll take my special somepony out to dinner." Rainbow slowly petted her heated mare's back, grinning at her.

"Sure," Fluttershy smiled back, "You can be so romantic, Rainbow..." She nose-kissed her, giggling.

The athlete snorted. "Me? Romantic?"

"Yes." Fluttershy cooed, snuggling her.

"Um... Snuggly..."

"Yes Rainbow?"

"You're still a little wet..."

Realizing she was right, Fluttershy blushed and then slowly got off her, looking away, "It's okay... I'll just... um... go relieve myself."

"No you don't." Dash grabbed the yellow pegasus’s tail.

Fluttershy pouted slightly. "But, Rainbow..."

"Lets go for a swim. Then we'll both be super cool to go. I... uh... have the same problem..."

"...Oh..." Fluttershy realized, able to faintly smell it. She giggled a bit, before she hugged the athlete lightly. "I think the cold water and swimming stimulation will help us, you're right. Shall we?"

"Yep. Right now before I change my mind." The athlete charged off, hauling her mare into the sky with her. "How about that spot over there?"

"There?" Fluttershy pointed down toward the watering hole they were approaching, "Sure! That's a great place to swim... maybe the have some cool fish..." She trailed off as thoughts of possible aquatic life entered her mind.

The tired cyan pegasus happily descended gradually. "Right you're flying yourself home. You're getting too heavy for me."

Fluttershy gently released herself from the blue pegasus’s grip and flew alongside her, happy enough to power her own flight. "But you always pick me up before I can say anything... I'm sorry, I think I might've put on a few pounds... it's okay, I can fly on my own."

"I was getting tired silly filly. You're not fat." Rainbow Dash giggled lightly to herself. "Yes, I know, the mighty Rainbow Dash getting tired. Just don't tell anypony or I'll never hear the end of it..."

"Rainbow, don't be silly," Fluttershy assured. "You're still a pony. Everypony knows that."

"Yea. But I'm awesome and cool. Not everypony's cool like me." Dash defended, proudly holding a forehoof to her chest.

"Well, true... but... that doesn't mean that you don't need rest." Replied Fluttershy as she continued to keep pace alongside her mare.

"That's why I have you... my sunggly wuggly." Several quiet giggles escaped the flying champion as she found it impossible to hold back after using such a silly pet name.

Fluttershy giggled and flew closer and carefully gave her beloved a sweet nuzzle, "And I'll always be here to help you relax, my champion Rainbow Dash..."

"You left out the naughty bit there Flutters. You have no idea what I have in store for you later. Now come on!" Dash smirked as she allowed herself to enjoy her wandering thoughts.

Wrapping a cyan hoof around her beloved, the speedy mare tilted into a dive, carrying both pegasi into the water below.

The two ponies had disappeared beneath the dark, glassy surface for a few moments with a massive splash. The slow flowing river continued on it's path for a few moments in disturbed tranquility as the two lovebirds remained under. But it wasn't long before Fluttershy emerged with a squeal, splashing about like she was in trouble.

"COLD!" She squealed, shivering, "Oh sweet Celestia...! This is cold!"

Her bold companion broke the surface a moment later, gasping. "That was freaking AWESOME!" She splashed the shivering pony who was floating beside her.

"Hey!" Fluttershy whimpered, swimming away.

Laughing, Rainbow Dash swam after her, "Come back! I'm not going to hurt you."

"Nooooo!" Fluttershy giggled as she swam franticly away, only to get caught a second later when she reached the shallow shoreline. She giggled, falling to the ground as Dash held her tightly, forehooves wrapped firmly around her back.

The bold mare reached over and gently nibbled her ear. "That got your mind off me didn't it?"

"A bit." Fluttershy mumbled.

"I'm going to have to do better than that then." Dash replied with a grin.

The athletic pegasus leapt back into the shallows, using a strong wing to send a small wave in the direction of her mumbling fillyfriend.

"Eeeeee!" Fluttershy squealed as small waves of freezing water hit her, "Rainbow, I'm already soaked! It... it won't work anymore! Um... let's just... s-swim a bit, okay?"

"Come on then." The athlete paddled out into the cold swimming hole, an encouraging grin directed at her shorebound love.

Fluttershy hesitated. While she was glad the urges had more or less disappeared, now she needed to... Well, she looked over to some bushes and figured to take care of herself now before she ended up wetting herself in an unfortunate embarrassing accident. "Um, okay... I'll-I’ll be back... Just a moment." She trotted over to the nearby bushes.

"Fluttershy! Don't be sad. We can do that when we get back!" Dash called out.

The creamy yellow pegasus peeked up from the bushes, "Um... I just... need to pee..." She confessed.

"Oh... Well why didn't you say so?” Laughed Rainbow Dash. “Never mind!" The bold pony submerged herself, happily waving her fillyfriend away with a hoof.

Nonetheless, Fluttershy smiled, "Oh, I'll take you up on that, Dashie..." She said to herself, giggling as she went to relieve herself.

Once finished, Fluttershy went back into the water, paddling around happily. "Ah...this is much better..."

"Hey Snuggles! Over here!" The rather loud shout from the surfacing pony drew her attention over to near the opposite shoreline stood.

Fluttershy paddled on the spot, looking toward her companion, "What are you doing over there, Rainbow?"

"Swimming, Flutters. Duh! Now hurry over here or I'll get bored!" The grinning pony continued to tread water as she waited impatiently for her fillyfriend.

"We wouldn't want that," Fluttershy agreed, smiling. She made a shrugging motion as best as she could and paddled over toward Dash, using her wings to propel along the water faster.

As soon as she came within a few pony lengths, Dash leapt out of the water, her powerful wings beat once, giving that extra boost. She crashed back down close to her startled companion.

"Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeepp!" Fluttershy wailed, fighting against the crashing waves that surrounded her.

"Race time!" The excited pony bobbed alongside her less athletic friend.

That massive grin was not something that Fluttershy could say no to.

"And guess what Fluttershy? I'm already tired because of carrying your hot body all day. So I guess my special somepony will have a much needed advantage." She continued to grin hopefully over at the yellow pegasus floating in front of her.

Of course Fluttershy knew better. While she could be fast, certainly, she knew Rainbow Dash would still manage to surpass her even when tired. But regardless, she blushed at the compliment and looked away a bit, "All right, Rainbow... let's do this."

"Now, or later?" The rainbow maned mare wore a moderately suggestive grin upon her face, enjoying herself. "Sorry. Race time."

"Go!" Fluttershy grinned as she splashed her lover right in the face then paddled off at full speed, doing her best to get any kind of headstart.

"Hey! No fair!" The athlete kicked off after leading mare, propelled by her tired yet still powerful limbs.

Fluttershy laughed heartily, using her wings to propel herself once again as she swam away. Of course, Dash pulled up next to her in a matter of seconds, a wild grin plastered across her gorgeous face. The pair grinned at each other, ecstatic in their little race.

The joyful race continued for a small eternity as Dash happily fell into place, right next to her competitor and love. As they neared the shoreline, both ponies were breathing heavily, swimming was not something they normally spend a lot of time doing and both found it surprisingly tiring. Working against the resistance of the water was definitely different from the support and resistance of the wind up in the sky, to be sure. But still a lot of fun.

With heavy breaths, the two lovebirds floated happily around in the shallows for a few moments, trying their best to regain their strength.

Fluttershy turned her head over toward her companion, and scooted closer to her, kissing her cheek, "I... don't even know who won. But I bet it was you..."

The smitten cyan mare floated beside her. "Couldn't have been me. You totally did."

"Nooo, it was you, I bet it was," Fluttershy giggled, a happy smile upon her muzzle.

"Nope! That was you, Fluttershy!" Rainbow continued to grin as her ego expanded.

"...Wow, I thought you hated to lose, Dashie..." Teased the yellow mare.

With a hearty chuckle, Dash reached over and ruffled her special somepony’s wet mane, "Heh... I make an exception for you, Flutters. Just don't you tell anypony. You're the only one allowed to win against me!"

"Oh, Rainbow..." Fluttershy giggled, she rolled onto her back on the shoreline, enjoying the feel of the gentle, slow-lapping waves as they washed over her from time to time.

With a wide grin, Dash saw an opportunity and scooted over, climbing on top of the saturated animal caretaker. It was very reminiscent of having done so as a filly, with all the more added to it by now. She all but melted as she observed the way Fluttershy gazed up at her lovingly, with her aquamarine eyes twinkling with glee, her loving, sweet smile, and the adorable blush on her cheeks. The fact that she was soaking wet with her limp mane matted about on her face and the ground below her head only added to her appeal.

'I don't know what I did to deserve Fluttershy...I don't deserve her at all. But I'll never let her go!' Dash thought as she kissed her beloved on the forehead. 'Still, Fluttershy deserves the best, and I'll make her happy, however I can. ...Darn, she's so pretty! And she grew to be real hot... Heh heh, no wonder I can't keep my hooves off her... Ah yeah, tonight's gonna be awesome. I'm going to blow her mind... I'm gonna make sweet awesome Sonic Rainboom love to you tonight, Flutters. Just you wait...'

Fluttershy felt totally relaxed as she lay there on the shore with cool water against her drenched coat and her true love on top of her, a living blanket to her warm and protected. 'Oh Dash... It feels so nice to finally have you. You have grown up to be the most beautiful mare I've ever seen.' She caressed the wet rainbow mane, noticing the naughty look crossing her marefriend's face. 'I look forward to tonight. I just know you will continue to make it as wonderful as it is now.'

To tease her a little, Dash grinned and then ran her tongue across Fluttershy's soft, supple lips. She then licked along her muzzle, as if licking the water off her coat. Returning to her lips, she kissed them passionately.

Fluttershy returned her affections, pulling the bold mare deeper into the kiss. The lovers rolled around on the bank, churning the serene location into mush as passions flared. After a soft battle of wills, the yellow pegasus found herself on top. She pulled out of the kiss to gaze down at her muddy lover with a shy affectionate smile.

"Dashie... We're all dirty now. I think my beautiful rainbow needs another swim."

Turning pink, Dash chuckled and then splattered some mud on Fluttershy, just to tease her, even though she was already muddy to begin with. "Oops! Looks like Fluttershy needs a bath, too!"

"Well, let's get in the water..." Fluttershy cooed, poking the dirty blue nose in front of her.

Dash laughed lightly, "Okay. But only because you say so, mucky mare."

Fluttershy giggled and blew a raspberry. "You first."

"Somepony wants to watch do they." Dash smirked suggestively.

"...Maybe..." The creamy yellow mare smiled innocently.

"Fine. Here goes the greatest mare ever." Declared Dash. She broke their embrace and hovered a few feet over the smiling pony below.

She landed and slowly swaggered into the water, being careful to wiggle her flank as much as possible on the way in. Fluttershy watched with great interest, sitting up and observing her beloved's every move, carefully, making sure not to miss a thing. As the subject of her affections submerged she shook herself out of her stupor. 'Bath time.' She carefully made her way into the muddy water, following her mare.

Dash floated along, happy in the middle of the expanse of water.

Fluttershy slowly paddled along, there was no need to hurry, her Rainbow wasn't going anywhere. As she swam, she kept an eye out for any creatures below the surface. Unsurprisingly, none were to be found. Fluttershy figured they had probably churned the water up so much they had frightened the little critters away. She quickly decided not to worry herself over the aquatic life as they were probably more than capable at taking care of themselves. Fluttershy had a rainbow to catch.

It was absolutely perfect. Celestia's sun was shining in the sky, clouds were set rolling by in the wind, a breeze blew, and the sweet songs of the birds echoed within the trees nearby. As the wind blew, it whispered within the leaves, creating the atmospheric sound of whispering trees. Fluttershy closed her eyes as she basked in the sweet sounds, smells and feelings of nature. It couldn't have been any better than this. Nothing could possibly go wrong in these peaceful times.

Something long, slimy, and yet roughened brushed along her legs under the water. She immediately yelped and took off into the air, launching herself out of the water as she thrashed her legs about. However, due to how scared she was, her wings receded and clamped against her sides, leaving her to fall back into the water. Thankfully, she was only a few feet above the water, so she didn't have far to go.

But the splash nor submersion beneath the water came.

"Whoa there, Flutters!" She felt the strong hooves of her guardian grip her. "Come on, you have me here. You don't need to be scared."

"I felt... something! Under the water! I think it was a tentacle! It might be a squid!" Fluttershy squealed in fright, holding to Dash tightly.

The bold mare sighed, giving her a look. "Really Fluttershy? Just some squid?"

With a slight giggle, the shy mare loosened her hold. "Yes. Come to think of it... If I haven't been scared, I would love to have seen it..."

"Would you like me to try and find it for you?" The strong pegasus asked as she hovered closer and closer to the shoreline.

A meek nod was her reply as Fluttershy snuggled into her wet coat.

"Well okay then." Gracing her lover with a confident grin, the guardian placed her companion down on the shore and dove into the water.

A couple of minutes passed, and Fluttershy began to worry. 'Did something happen?' Rainbow hadn't even come back up for air and then go back down again. She sincerely hoped that it was just because she could hold her breath that long. She shifted her weight around on the spot, growing restless. Was it worth returning in there to see? What was it that held her precious pony?

Before she could do anything further, Rainbow Dash finally came up to the surface, gasping for air. By the looks of things, she was completely unharmed.

"Nothing down there, Flutters! It's kinda murky and hard to see, though, so I don't know. But I went along and I'm pretty sure there's nothing down there. Just seaweed and whatever other kinds of water plants."

Relieved, Fluttershy trotted up to her protector and embraced her, laying a series of kisses all across her wet face. "I was so worried... You... You..." She sniffed back a set of tears.

Softening, Dash smiled and embraced the soft pegasus, giggling a bit from the kisses, "I'm sorry. I can hold my breath pretty long and I just wanted to give it a once-over as much as I can. I should've come up, so, yeah... sorry about that." She kissed her love on the cheek to further assure her.

"Dashie..."

"Yes Fluttershy?"

"Please don't ever leave me. You make me worry so..." Fluttershy cuddled deep into the loving embrace of the bold blue pegasus, content in her presence.

Holding her closer, Rainbow Dash nuzzled into Fluttershy's damp hair and nodded as she gently rubbed her back in comfort. "I won't, I promise. I love you, I'm not gonna leave you, Flutters. Never! I'll never leave you alone like that."

"Yay!" The soft cheer set the strong champion's heart aflutter.

"Now how about we head home? I'm getting hungry." The athlete’s tummy added further statement to the conversation.

Fluttershy nuzzled into her companions dirty wet coat. "Okay sweetheart. I'm ready for our dinner date."

Grinning, Dash kissed her nose. "Great! ...We're gonna need a shower, though."

"I know. Anything to make my Dashie look beautiful!" Fluttershy continued to snuggle her protector.

"I'm not beautiful! I'm awesome! You're the one who's beautiful, pal!"

Fluttershy ran a hoof through the damp mane of her lover. "No. You're the most beautiful mare I've ever seen."

"So that's why you can't keep your hooves off me." The bold mare chuckled to herself as she nibbled her lover's ear in an affectionate mannor.

"Perhaps..."

"Fluttershy..."

"Yes sweetie?"

"You have wings and I remember telling you I'm not flying you home. I don't care if it's romantic and mushy. It gets old sometimes... Besides, I don't think you want your awesome marefriend to collapse."

"Of course," Fluttershy assured, smiling. "I'm perfectly capable. And like I said...you were the one who carried me, I never actually asked you to, silly. So... shall we go?" She couldn't help but wonder if Dash truly meant referring to her cottage as home to them both, even though they'd lived there together until Dash moved out. 'I wonder if she'd ever move back in...'

She disentangled herself from the loving hold of her special somepony and kept pace as they slowly flew towards home.

In the late afternoon sun, two colourful pegasi touched down in front of Fluttershy's cottage, the young couple shared a quick kiss before walking up to the front door. They found a very angry looking Angel Bunny waiting for them.

"Oh, there you are, Angel!" Fluttershy said happily, undeterred. "Sorry we're late, we had lost track of the time. Are you all right? Do you need me to feed you?"

He immediately motioned for a carrot, giving a solid answer to the animal caretakers question.

Fluttershy nodded, plucking the carrot from the vegetable patch and giving it to him, "Here you go, Angel! Enjoy."

The rodent excitedly grabbed the offering and began munching on it, allowing his mother figure off the hook for being late home for his meal time. However, he was still none too pleased to see his once secondary owner. Despite in the past he merely tolerated her in a begrudging sense and enjoyed tormenting her with the knowledge of his caretaker being in love with her... he was none too sure this was going to end well. He shot her a glare after making sure Fluttershy wasn't watching.

The cyan mare poked out her tongue in a quick response before putting a ruffled wing over the yellow pegasus as if claiming the mare for herself. Dash allowed herself to be led along as Fluttershy slowly fed her animals. The couple stuck to the ground for extra snuggle time, making the most of the peaceful atmosphere before their date.

As soon as Fluttershy finished tending to her animals she turned to the pony who was practically glued to her. "Rainbow. I think it's shower time... We need to get you looking nice and pretty for our date!"

"Looking awesome, you mean," Dash smirked, "I think it's you who needs to look all clean and pretty for our date, Flutters."

"Only if my special somepony washes me clean first." Fluttershy nuzzled the smirking mare gently, finding herself smiling too.

"My Fluttershy has just invited me to shower with her." Dash grinned like a naughty filly, unable to believe her luck. "You had better hope we make it to our date if you're going to be offering things like that." She chucked slowly as she started to lead them inside. This was going to be a lot of fun.

"What can I say... I can't keep my hooves off you, my love..." Fluttershy cooed, her eyelids lowering in a suggestive manner.

She felt the protective wing of her rainbow flutter and rise.

Angel facehoofed. There was no way those two were going to make it to the showers at this rate. Getting a bold idea, he rushed up to the annoying blue one and gave her a kick on her hind leg.

The cyan pegasus angrily rounded on the tiny creature. "Hey! Stop kicking me, you little pest!"

Fluttershy turned to see Angel standing there with an "Are you serious?" kind of look, and came to see what he was trying to do.

"Oh... I-I'm sorry, I think we should just get into the shower now, Rainbow... um... we're getting a bit off track."

Dash chuckled to herself. "Yea I guess we were a bit weren't we?" She forced her wing back down into position over her companion.

With Angel's watchful gaze, the two lovers waltzed inside and headed toward the showers. Satisfied, the white rabbit headed off to go play outside for a little while.

They went to the bathroom, laying out a couple of towels, then picked out some soap and shampoo they would be needing. Fluttershy turned on the water, making sure the temperature and the pressure of the spray were at good levels. Satisfied, she climbed into the tub, and turned to face her companion. With a delighted smile, she beckoned to the multicolored pegasus in front of her.

"Come in, sweetheart..."

Dash giggled, "Don't mind if I do Snuggly." With a soft smirk on her dirty face, she slipped in beside her friend.

Dash used her powerful wings to create small waves that sent tides of warm water splashing up her marefriend's back. She leaned down and gave a small nibble on the blissful pony's ear. Fluttershy's sharp intake of breath told the grinning mare that her method of attack was an effective one. Using a hoof she brushed a delicate yellow wing, teasing it open. She leaned down and used her mouth to slowly preen the delicate yellow feathers while her hooves worked on other parts of her dearest companion.

With a groan of pleasure Fluttershy sank slowly down into the tub filled with bliss. Along with the pleasures of the entire process, it was very reminiscent of the old days, and even the recent past, when they would bathe or shower together. So while this was nothing new in principle, it did still hold a fresh, wonderful new feeling that she just loved.

"Almost..." Dash whispered, nibbling her companion's ear a little bit as she continued working on cleaning her.

Afterward, she moved down washing Fluttershy's back, using the soap and a cloth along her coat. She even cleaned along the butter yellow flank, decorated with the adorable cutie mark of the three butterflies, all areas she could not reach without help. After a little while, Rainbow had finished all she could easily reach from on top.

The yellow pony slowly rolled over in the tub to gaze up into the radiant face of her true love. She allowed her legs to part as the bold mare slowly sunk down on top of her. Dash smirked for a moment, happy to just look down into the face of the one she loved. She brought their noses together and the happy couple took a moment to simply lie there. After a moments bliss, Fluttershy gave the mare on top a quick kiss. She felt a spark of joy inside yet again, as if nothing could ruin this.

Dash grinned, kissing her as well and giving her a nuzzle. She then stood up, and gave a thorough pass with the scrubbing cloth on the soft yellow underside, delighting in each giggle she elicited from her lover as she worked. Slowly, slowly moved the scrubber as it migrated down with circular motions to make sure everything was well cleaned. Fluttershy held her breath as the light blue pegasus continued to move lower and lower, yet they both managed to contain their hormones even when Dash reached and cleaned Fluttershys nether region.

“There... easy...” The cyan mare stood back to admire her work upon her mare. “I bet you feel awesome right now!”

“I-I do Dashie. You were amazing. It looks like I might have to get you to wash me every night... I-if you don’t mind that is...” Fluttershy gazed meekly into her lover’s eyes, hopeful that her wish would be granted.

“Well...” Dash grinned, delighted at the idea. “Only if you wash me too. I want to feel how cool it is for somepony as awesome as me to wash.” She offered a cyan hoof, still grinning from ear to ear.

Fluttershy accepted the helping hoof and stood, eye to eye with the pony who had just accepted her offer. “Rainbow Dash... That would be truly wonderful.” She gave a quick kiss, adding to the answer, only to pull shyly away with a strong blush upon her muzzle.

“Awesome! I guess that makes it your turn now!” Declared a delighted Rainbow Dash as she slipped into the warm water to await her own treatment.

Fluttershy detached the shower head and used it to rinse the dirty pegasus. Afterward, she too applied the same treatment of preening her wings, carefully, then giving the whole mare a full body wash. It was clearly the best wash the athlete had received in a long time and the look on Rainbow’s face was bliss.

They washed each other's manes thoroughly then rinsed them off, before taking a couple of minutes to just enjoy the warm water together. Fluttershy giggled, leaning against the back of the tub again, slightly up against the wall, and motioned for her beloved to join her. With a grin, Dash did so and lay on top of her once more as both mares enjoyed each other's closeness and the warm water spraying over them from above like a trickle of rain. They met in the middle with a soft kiss, relishing the magic of the contact along with the refreshing droplets that ran down each others faces.

They withdrew, eyes shining as they gazed lovingly into the depths of each others souls. Warm fuzzies buzzed through their bodies, lifting their spirits to new heights. The moment might as well have lasted forever.

With slow, revered movements yellow hooves moved up to gently touch Rainbow's face, Fluttershy smiled in pure bliss and sighed dreamily. Whatever could have been better than a moment like this, she was unsure if she wanted to know, "Oh, Rainbow... I love you..." She whispered softly.

Dash leaned her forehead against her marefriend. "And I love you too, Fluttershy." She wrapped her wings around her special pony, enveloping her with all the love she could offer.

"Hee...my Rainbow..." Fluttershy cooed sweetly as she basked in the warm loving presence of their little cocoon.

Obliging, Rainbow Dash leaned in nuzzled her mare, making her way to the creamy mare's ear. Finding her target she softly nibbled it, eliciting giggles and a soft moan from her pony. Grinning she slowly moved downwards, nibbling the shy mare's soft neck, causing her to squirm with glee.

"Hee hee...!" Fluttershy giggled and squirmed, completely delighted. Warm jolts of pleasure coursed through her, heightening as each little nibble passed. "Oh Rainbow...so good..."

"You like that, do you?" The cyan speedster grinned, continuing her ministrations.

"Yes..." A delighted squeal escaped the shy pony. "Oh...yes...I do..."

Delicate yellow wings flapped against the blue feathery covering that encased the two lovers. Dash moved on, giving the excited, shy pony a quick affectionate lick on her muzzle. They locked gazes, blissfully holding onto the moment. Dash smirked as Fluttershy gave her a pitiful look, begging for more.

"My special pony wants more, does she?"

"Y-yes..."

Answering with actions, Dash slid her muzzle down, brushing her nose against Fluttershy's damp coat. She gave a quick nibble on the pretty pegasus's neck and was rewarded with the blissful moan of her pampered creamy mare. Her wings slid off, allowing the fluttering yellow ones to expand outwards. With a mischievous grin Dash began to delicately nibble her way down Fluttershy, heading for her tummy, offering the odd lick whenever the fancy took hold.

"D-Dash..." Fluttershy moaned, sliding further back into the tub, spreading her hind legs. She trembled as she felt the slow build of heat from below.

"Yes Flutters?" the bold mare leaned in and blew a raspberry right on the middle of her yellow mare's soft belly.

"Nooooooooo!" Fluttershy squealed, laughing, and trying not to thrash too much in the confined space of the tub. "Noooooooooooo!"

"Okay. I'll stop if my pretty pony begs me to." Dash grinned slyly.

Despite her tickled state, Fluttershy caught on, and giggled, "...Well played, Dashie..."

The athlete rose for a moment to take in the sight of her adorable marefriend. The pretty mare took the bold pony's breath away. The wet mane added to her appeal in their current situation and Dash found her gaze wander down to the spread hind legs of her begging companion. She spotted her final target and felt her own marehood begin to clench with excitement, mirroring the mare under her. 'No. I must wait...' She found her eyes glued to the spot. Temptation flooded her system. 'But on the other hoof...'

She leaned in, crafty smile hovering upon her face. The mare underneath her shuddered with anticipation. Oh yes, she knew what Fluttershy wanted and what she was hoping for. As much as Dash wanted it just as much, she had another plan in mind. After all, Fluttershy had done the same thing. It was her turn to return the favour...

She gazed up at the lovestruck eyes of her companion, it was clear how much Fluttershy wanted it. Wanted her, Rainbow Dash to minster to her in the most intimate way. With a smirk, Dash finished off her move, lowering her mouth down to the perky little buds located above Fluttershy's nether regions. She licked her lips before gently kissing one of them.

Fluttershy gasped, kicking her hind leg a little. Encouraged, Dash gave the nipple a little lick before enclosing her mouth around it. There was a strange and funny little taste to it that was almost like nothing, and yet, had something of a texture. But she liked it, it was an interesting new experience to try. She suckled and even gently nibbled, while her hoof pleasured the other nipple gently, but thoroughly.

"Y-Y-Yes...! Oh, Rainbow Dash...! Aaahhh..." Fluttershy moaned beneath her, trembling. It felt amazing, especially this close to her heated area. Oh, if only Dash would just go a little lower... But regardless, she felt pretty giddy to have inspired Dash to do this after she had given her a suckle the day before.

Feeling her own nether regions start to dampen ever so slightly, Dash realised it was time to stop, or she would be unable to contain her pent-up desires. With one last nibble, Dash gently pressed her fillyfriend down into the tub, slid the timid pony under her. She gave her creamy bundle of hot joy a giddy grin before reaching down.

'Go for it Dash!' Fluttershy almost cried out loud.

To the yellow pegasus's dismay, the bold mare once again stopped short of her marehood, instead she chose to plant her tongue upon the perky yellow nipple. She then slid Fluttershy along under her, giving the pleasured mare one long, loving lick all the way up, right to her cheek. She then collapsed gently upon the shuddering pony.

"Yeah, you want me, don't you, Flutters? I could tell the way you looked at me, the way your sweet voice begged for it." Dash teased, chuckling as she nibbled her ear. "Tonight, I'll make you mine... I have a whole night of pure pleasure in store for you."

Fluttershy couldn't help it. She shuddered as she brought the teasing mare into her embrace. "I have a little surprise for you too, my Rainbow."

With a delighted, yet naughty grin, Dash nibbled her ear once more and then lowered her head down to look at her longtime companion, "I figured, pal... So, what say we dry off and get going? It's time for our date."

"Yes." Fluttershy nuzzled her lover, she felt ready for their first date.

The thought of going out in public dismissed the naughty thoughts that were floating through her head. Besides, there was always later...

Central Ponyville

A little bit later, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy went out into town, heading to their favourite little diner. It wasn't much, but it was the first place they tried and enjoyed when they first moved to Ponyville, the Sweet Briar Rose Diner. For their first date, it seemed to be pretty much appropriate. Many would have objected, especially since it isn't "fancy" or any sort of thing like that. But Dash didn't care, she knew Fluttershy enjoyed the food here just as much as she did, so what was the problem? It was all they needed.

They walked into the homely decorated diner, full of smiles. It was the same place it always was, mostly filled with small groups of ponies, all busy enjoying the good food and atmosphere.

The couple took their seats at the usual table, in their usual seating and settled down to await the arrival of their menus. "Anything special you want tonight, Fluttershy?"

"Um... no... I-I think I'll just have the usual."

"Aw come on, it's our first date. Try something new..." Dash prompted.

"That's all right, I don't need to," Fluttershy smiled.

Glancing at the menu, a little smirk overcame Rainbow's face, "Say, I have an idea. We both like spaghetti, right?"

"Absolutely! I love it," Fluttershy giggled.

"Well, let's get a couple's dish of spaghetti!"

Thinking of that for a moment, the creamy yellow pegasus smiled and nodded, "All right, Dashie. That sounds good to me."

"That's a good," Dash leaned over and kissed the shy pony on the nose, eliciting several giggles from her.

Their waiter appeared. "Do I assume that it's the regular girls?"

"Not this time, bud! Tonight's real special!" Dash winked at the waiter. "We'll have a couple's dish, spaghetti!"

"You realise that it's designed for couples and not just friends? Right?" The attendant dismissed their query, waiting for them to order properly.

"Well... we... we're dating now, so... yes..." Fluttershy blushed, her mane covering her face as her timid nature hit full force.

"Oh... Um... I'm sorry... it's just... you two have been coming here for years and I never knew... I'm so sorry." Apologized the stallion who was serving them.

"Nah, don't worry!" Dash waved a hoof, shaking her head. "It's only been since yesterday, anyway! So bring that and some grape soda!"

"Yes M'am." He bowed, then took their menus and walked off to fulfill their orders.

"So, you two are finally dating, eh?" Said Rose, the pink coated owner, a graceful looking earth pony from behind the counter, she had overheard. "About time!"

"You said it, Rose!" Rainbow winked at her. "And we have the most amazing night planned ahead."

"I bet. All those years to catch up on right?" The pink pony asked.

Fluttershy blushed and hid behind her mane, giggling nervously. They sure were going to... not that she wanted to openly share that fact with anypony else.

"Fluttershy says yes." Dash joked, snickering.

"Okay... Well you just treat her well. I've heard how brash you can be."

Rainbow Dash shrugged, "Yeah, I know, I'm the almighty Speed Demon. But I... well, you know! I can curb it!"

"I'll bet, kiddo. I've seen you two together over the years you guys moved here, I know what you're talking about," Rose assured, winking at her. "I bet you only let that quiet mare do that too..."

"...She does, yes..." Fluttershy admitted, looking to the older pony with a little smile.

Rose picked up a tray with their glasses on it and started walking toward the young couple. Knowing they were accepted, Fluttershy couldn't resist and so scooted across, nuzzled up under a strong cyan wing and gave her loving protector the warm fuzzes as she cuddled her.

The establishment's owner placed the drinks down in front of them. "Well shucks you two... It's nice to see such a happy couple. Drinks are on the house."

"Oh... n-no we couldn't accept that, Rose... you know how much we support your business..." Stuttered Fluttershy from beneath her partner’s wing.

"It's not every day I get to see a couple as open as you two are. You're a same sex couple too! Normally they hide away, which I know is understandable, but I think it's very brave when they're open." She chuckled to herself. "No... drinks on the house. You two are one couple I will always welcome on my premisses with open hooves."

"Hey, awesome! Thanks, Rose! Glad to know!" Rainbow Dash grinned. "Does this mean this awesome Wonderbolt can order more free drinks?"

"Yes, but don't push your luck. You're not a celebrity yet." Rose left the couple to their own devices, a grin upon her face.

Fluttershy giggled and snuggled into her marefriend with giddy joy, "You'll always be a Wonderbolt to me, sweetheart."

"And you will always be my snuggly cheerleader, Flutters." Dash whispered as she nuzzled back, relishing the warmth radiating from their embrace. While she didn’t want others to hear the silly, uncool words she was using, Rainbow Dash wanted to continue the special feeling they had going with their date.

Smiling more, Fluttershy daydreamed then of the wonderful idea of that. Out in Cloudsdale, the Wonderbolts perform, with Rainbow Dash among them performing their tricks. Fluttershy sitting in a special seat reserved for her, cheering her mare on, squealing and encouraging her the entire way. After it's over, Dash touches down and approaches her, looking to her with a loving smile that radiates her face, touching their foreheads together. "I love you..." she would say, as the two would bask in their sweet little moment after the performance. How amazing it would be to travel with her and support her on that. Oh all the places they would see, and all the animals she would meet.

Her moment of daydreaming was cut short by the waiter's voice. "Your spaghetti. I hope you find it to your liking."

"You can bet this will be awesome!" Rainbow Dash beamed, eager to begin.

"Thank you..." Fluttershy whispered meekly.

"Right, race you to the middle?" Dash asked hopefully.

"Not everything needs to be a race, Rainbow."

"I know, silly filly. But it makes it more fun, for me at least."

Fluttershy's eyes lit up nonetheless, her smile growing. "Kind of... like when we first moved here... with the taffy... our first kiss in Ponyville..." She whispered softly.

"Heh... yeah, I remember. That was awesome!" The cocky mare grinned at her pretty companion. "Except that this time you definitely look 20% cuter, Flutters! And so hot."

"But I haven't changed how I look..." Fluttershy giggled bashfully. "I look the same..."

"Nh- uh. You've grown. We're both cooler!" Dash did her best to explain, only to resort to her usual stance on coolness over everything else.

Fluttershy shook her head, "Oh, no. The years have been wonderful to you, Rainbow... I look the same as I did after we first moved to the apartment. The only changes were that I let my mane grow..."

"Wet mane... soooo awesome!" Dash cheered as quietly as she could, causing her shy lover to turn crimson.

"It's... just a wet mane, Dashie..."

"Oh no. You look hot like that. I'm going to have to remind you later tonight..." Dash grinned suggestively, leaning down toward their shared bowl of food.

Blushing immensely from the thought, Fluttershy did the same and started to eat the noodles.

Falling into the bubble the two lovers allowed themselves to become immersed in each others eyes and the delicious meal they were sharing. As they slurped up the noodles, they mirrored each others movements, looking forward to the juicy end to the filling food.

Rainbow Dash slowly extended her wing covering Fluttershy to tickle the back of they shy mare's ear. As the feathers made contact, Fluttershy's own wings sprung open. The two quickly descended into a winged game of pleasure as they gazed into each others luminous gaze, eating away at the meal in front of them.

Eventually, they found themselves biting onto the same strand of spaghetti. Exactly as predicted, to which Dash nonetheless smirked triumphantly at. Fluttershy blushed, but otherwise eagerly went along with it. Slowly, they ate along the noodle, going toward each other, almost there, meeting in the middle... Excitement built in both of the lovers as they continued, almost there...

Cyan met yellow as the last noodle disappeared. They immediately fell into the kiss, wings tips touching as they worked the pleasurable contact between them. The air was electrifying. They slowly deepened the the kiss as they invaded each others mouths. As if called onwards by some mysterious force they both lowered their wings slowly. They relished the tingles that flew through their systems as feather brushed against feather, yellow against blue.

The magic was wonderful, at least until the cough of a nearby customer, not-so-subtly trying to tell them to get a room broke it. Oh well, they laughed it off anyway and continued to eat.

Not without a few other kisses that followed in their same-strand moments, of course.

The rest of the dinner date passed quickly, neither mare willing to leave the other's loving embrace the whole time. Before they knew it, the delightful dinner was over and it was time to head home.

Chapter Seven: Love in Bloom

Chapter Seven: Two Lovers Bond

Ponyville, Fluttershy's Cottage

"That was a lovely dinner we had, Rainbow..." Fluttershy gushed as they arrived back at her cottage. "It was wonderful!"

"Yep! It was totally awesome. Shame that somepony in there didn't approve... we were just getting started." The bold pegasus grinned

"Oh..." Fluttershy trembled a bit nervously, "I... I hope we don't meet anypony else like that..." But she knew better, not everypony in Equestria approved of same sex relationships after all.

"I don't think so... I mean, I know we're gonna, but you know!" Dash attempted to remember back... but her mind was filled with a Fluttershy induced haze.

With a sigh, Fluttershy nuzzled her mare, and then went to go and open the front door of the cottage. She realized how hard things were sure to be sometimes, especially considering the past. But when she felt Rainbow's tail sweep against her back, it was all she needed to remember the reality of the situation, to which she smiled in bliss.

The couple slowly made their way inside, cautious not to wake too many of the animals. Fluttershy could feel the tension building in the air. This was it. They were finally here. She had her Rainbow Dash alone... Her wings fluttered in nervous excitement. Now too, she could try on the gift her long time friend had given what felt like forever and a day ago. 'What happens if Dash doesn't like it? Or I let her down?' She quivered, unsure about if she could go through with it now that they were here.

The two mares quickly found themselves standing in their bedroom. Complete silence reigned. Both could feel the build up sexual tension in the air.

Rainbow Dash turned to face her companion. "Are you sure you want to do this Fluttershy? I-I've never done anything like this before."

"I-it's okay Rainbow my love. It's my first time too... I-I'm just feeling a little nervous and excited I guess..."

"Well... me too, actually," Dash admitted, her ears flopping. "I know I kinda act all, well, raw and sexy, but I'll be honest, I'm real nervous. I hope I can do this properly!"

A warm, sweet smile overcame Fluttershy's face as she walked over to gently nuzzle her mare, "I understand, Rainbow. I hope I can do it, too... Well, we'll learn about it together, won't we?"

"We sure will." Gaining confidence, the cocky mare began grinning at her companion once more.

"Dashie... Um... I-I have a little surprise for you... do you mind?"

"Are you kidding? I love surprises!" Dash grinned more, "What is it?"

The shy pony smiled at her bold fillyfriend before turning away to retrieve her little 'surprise'. Rainbow Dash waited, rocking back and forth on her hooves, whistling, shifting her weight a bit.

A few moments later, after having made sure to have picked the right box, Fluttershy came back and handed it to her to open. Eager, the cyan pegasus did just that, and opened the box to reveal... a pink, silky, black-lace trim lingerie outfit. The same one she had gotten for Fluttershy a couple of years ago.

"What!?" The cyan pegasus almost exploded, unable to believe her eyes.

Fluttershy blinked. Had she really given her the wrong box? She had made sure to give her the box she herself had bought, since she kept the one Rainbow gave her for herself. "...Is something wrong?"

Unable to believe her ears, Rainbow Dash felt the need to explain arising amidst her disbelief that she would simply have her present returned. "Fluttershy... that's my present I gave you. It's for you... not me."

"...Oh..." Giggling, the shy pegasus realized this would come up, "Well... y-you're going to have to trust me, Rainbow. Please? ...If you don't mind...I want to see you in it..."

"Um... okay. But I thought you were going to wear my present." The bold pegasus was slowly deflating.

"I will be wearing it, sweetie." Fluttershy winked at her. "Well... you can go put this on... I-I'll wait here."

"Fine. I'll see you soon hot stuff." The cyan mare picked up the box and slowly trotted down the stairs to put on the lingerie in peace. She had no idea where this was going, only that it wasn't what she had planned.

Smiling to herself, Fluttershy flew over to retrieve hers. Oh yes, in time, Rainbow would understand that she would indeed be wearing her present...

The nervous yellow mare slowly put on her lingerie... delicately ensuring each part of the garment was on correctly for maximum effect. She could feel heat pooling in her stomach, this was it... there was no backing down now. Her wings fluttered and she fought to keep them down. This was going to be a special moment and she did not need her feathery appendages to make life difficult right now.

Meanwhile, downstairs, Dash had gone into the bathroom to change into the lingerie. She still couldn't help but feel a little bit sad and confused. Sure, she wasn't opposed to wearing something comfy for Fluttershy's pleasure, but this wasn't what she expected. All of her fantasies of seeing her beloved wearing her present...shattered. But what did she mean when she'd said she would be? It didn't make sense. Yet, she knew she had to trust her, right? But still.

Regardless, she pulled it on, adjusted the straps, made sure her wings went through the holes just right, and that it was on correctly. She looked at herself in the mirror, unsure of what to think.

"Well, I GUESS it looks okay on me. But it would've looked a lot better on Fluttershy," she mumbled to herself.

Defeated, but still determined, the daredevil came out of the bathroom to head back upstairs. She heard something drop to the floor, and turned to see Angel staring at her with wide eyes, having dropped his carrot onto the floor in shock.

Neither of them moved a muscle as they stared at each other, unable to believe their own eyes.

Long moments passed as the awkward silence deepened.

Dash was unable to believe she had been caught wearing such a ridiculous outfit, and Angel, simply felt shocked to bear witness to such a bizarre getup on his caretaker's fillyfriend.

At least until Angel recovered, shook his head rapidly and darted out a nearby mouse hole, fleeing outside.

'I hope I don't look that bad... Stupid bunny.' Dash turned, resigning herself to completing the task at hoof.

Rainbow Dash slowly, begrudgingly made her way upstairs, she hesitated, keeping her eyes closed, "Okay, Fluttershy. I've got it on. Now just tell me straight out, don't spare my feelings. I look awful, don't I?"

She heard a squee of joy from across the room and opened her eyes. Her jaw dropped open.

There she was.

Fluttershy was on her bed, sitting up on her haunches, gazing toward Rainbow Dash with a loving smile that combined into a suggestive, sultry stare. Her mane was out of her face, completely exposing herself, and most surprisingly, wore the same lingerie. The moonlight from the window shone in on her, bathing her in its luminous glow. She looked absolutely stunning and the lingerie only added to her appeal. It was almost too much. Dash felt about ready to faint at the sight of her stunning fillyfriend, completely at loss for words as her heart raced and entire body seemed to ignite on fire. Cyan wings shot up as if she were about to rocket off into the night sky.

"But... whaa..." Her entire brain slurred. The sight in front of her was making coherent thought hard.

There was no way she was going to be able to string a sentence together with that hot pony sitting there like that.

Beaming, Fluttershy blushed and giggled as her smile became more nervous, but still sweet, as she gazed at her lover, "Hi Rainbow... D-do you... do you like what you see? I...I told you I'd be wearing your gift... the one I'm wearing is your gift. ...That one... i-is what I bought... I... oh my ...you look gorgeous..." She took in the sight of her lovely mare, awed by how amazing she looked.

Many would have never thought it possible, even she herself wasn't certain, but had wanted to try for that. Sure enough, Rainbow Dash looked pretty amazing in her own piece. The pink clashed nicely with her body, along with the black lace, and it even offset her rainbow mane nicely. The silky fabric hugged her toned curves, and the colours added a sweet, feminine look to her, yet without going too far.

"You... What? Flutters... You look. AMAZING!"

Dash took a tentative step forward. This was too good to be true, it had to be a dream.

Yet something told her this was real. Her Fluttershy was actually wearing her gift.

A delighted laugh came from the lovestruck yellow pegasus, as she smiled more at her beloved. Then, raised her hoof and beckoned her, "Come here, my darling Rainbow Dash... come to me..." she pleaded sweetly, and opened her forelegs in a manner of asking for a hug.

With wide eyes, the aroused weather pegasus waltzed forward, utterly smitten by the beauty before her. She reached the bed and a cunning smile crossed her face. She decided to play with the begging pony first.

Rather than using her wings, Dash instead climbed onto the bed, slowly, as she smirked suggestively at her partner. All of her nervousness was slowly fading upon the sight of the sexy, adorable pegasus before her. She felt bold, highly aroused and ready for anything her lover could throw at her. She licked her lips, approaching her like a predator, as her eyes scanned carefully up and down.

"You're all mine now, Fluttershy..." Dash whispered, chuckling as she came to now tower over her partner, gently laying her down.

Fluttershy's wings fluttered. "Yes Rainbow sweetie... I'm yours."

"And I'm yours," was all the cyan pegasus said before she just pounced.

The two ponies were caught in a tangled mess of limbs, bodies pressed together, lips and tongues clashing. Nothing was held back, they kissed deeply and passionately, moreso than they imagined ever before.

The world disappeared from around them faster than an exploding sonic rainboom. It was rapidly replaced by a haze of passion and love as they slowly rolled around on the shy pegasus's bed, moaning softly as they playfully fought for control.

Silky lingerie rubbed against heating coats as they worked, adding an exotic sense to the highly sensual atmosphere. The pressure was on the rise and this time, neither mare wished it to stop.

Rainbow Dash turned things up a bit by running her hooves along Fluttershy's sides, enjoying the silky feel of the lingerie as her hooves passed between it and the soft coat of her fillyfriend. Her hooves quickly found and played with her flared, stiff wings. Moans erupted from the pony beneath her as creamy yellow hooves responded in kind.

The two came to rest, playing with each others wings, cyan on top of buttery yellow. Slow sensual kisses accompanied the sensual exploration. Two flames of love meeting to form a building inferno of passion.

Feeling all the more aroused, Dash then dared to tread a new territory. She angled one hoof to slide down Fluttershy's flank, then down along her thigh, inward. Then back up along her tummy, only to go lower, and then applied pressure to her sex through the fabric of the garment.

"Y-yes! Dash...!" Fluttershy stammered, fighting for control over her quivering, excited body."

Smirking a little, Dash continued her ministrations, even going as far as to slip her hoof beneath the silk garment, touching the wet area. Then pulled it away, earning a whimper of protest from the aroused mare beneath her.

"You want more, Flutters?" The cyan pegasus cooed to her lover, eyes gleaming.

Fluttershy shot her a pleading look. "Y-yes!"

In response, she kissed her once more, sinking her hips into Fluttershy's to further stimulate each other. She pulled back, then proceeded to hungrily kiss and nibble her neck.

Fluttershy moaned in pleasure, her hooves wavering through the soft prismatic mane. "Oh... Rainbow..." The heated coils of pleasure pooled in her stomach, accentuating her need all the more.

Dash chuckled, continuing her ministrations. The way Fluttershy responded was immensely arousing, and now she couldn't wait to see what her efforts would earn her. To finally give her lover what she wanted, what she herself wanted as well.

'I've waited for this moment for years...to finally have Fluttershy as my fillyfriend... To make love to her...this is going to be so AWESOME!'

Slipping her hoof beneath the lingerie, she yet again applied pressure to Fluttershy's marehood, maneuvering along the wet, soft folds. Even though masturbation was not something she herself was a complete stranger to, it felt so different, so strange to be touching somepony else's privates. And yet, she loved every second of it.

"Rainbow...! Oh...yes...! Aaahh...!" Fluttershy moaned, spreading her legs further, welcoming the sensation of her friend-turned-fillyfriend ministering to her.

"Mmm..." Dash murmured, wedging her hoof into her entrance experimentally. "You want me to use my mouth, don't you, Fluttershy?"

A soft squeak emanated from the yellow mare as ecstasy continued to wash over her system. "I...I- ...don't know." She confessed as she fought for control over her raging system. "Try?"

"Well how about this first?" Rainbow Dash coyly asked, slowly pulling back the clothing to reveal the soft wet marehood of her lover.

She grinned as she slowly inserted her right forehoof, light blue slowly disappearing inside bright yellow.

"Da-ash...!"

"Yes?" The bold mare gently pushed further, causing her fillyfriend to stretch out as her body tingled with strange, euphoric sensations.

"Keep...doing that...!" Fluttershy stammered, her hips rising off the bed in response. "Yes...oohhh!"

Dash removed her hoof and gave it a lick, relishing this new sticky, sweet taste.

The taste of her mare.

Feeling herself continue to heat up, the bold mare pressed her slippery hoof back inside and began to slowly work it as she imagined a stallion would with a mare.

Fluttershy moaned louder as the white-hot pleasure raced within her. She gazed at her lover with lust-hazed eyes, panting and moaning as she raised her hips in time with Dash's hoofing. It felt amazing, far better than the test with her own, especially since it was Rainbow Dash performing this on her. "Rainbow...oh my...Rainbow..."

As pegasus on top continued to work her pleasures upon her lover, she lent down and used her nose to move the colth, revealing one of Fluttershy's nipples. Grinning, the aroused mare licked it, garnering another soft moan. Fighting against desires for her own pleasure she settled for suckling the revealed mammary glands as she continued to slide her hoof in and out, in and out.

In this small, hazy world of heightened senses, the new fillyfriends heard everything, every soft pant from their partner, every creak the bed made in time with their movements and every soft squelch the cyan hoof made as it breached the wet entrance of the yellow pegasus on the bottom.

Their tingling bodies felt like they were on high alert, small bolts of lighting coursing along each contact point between them.

"Yes! Yes! Oh...Rainbow Dash! You sexy Wonderbolt! Yes!" Fluttershy squealed, her hips raising yet again, her head buried against her pillow. "Ohhh Rainbow!" She moaned even louder than before, surpassing even the usual level of "Fluttershy volume", which was quite a feat in itself.

Fluttershy could feel it coming, like an impending explosion. Her muscles contracted and she increased her own movements in desperation. She wanted it. Needed it, and there was nopony better to deliver than her oldest and dearest companion.

Sensing the coming end Dash withdrew her hoof, slowly sliding it out as she continued her ministrations upon the nub. She finished up with her mouth and slowly sat up, gazing down at her lover with glee. She felt like an excited wreck, mind on fire, body quivering slightly. Everything else was merely part of a lust filled haze, nothing mattered except Fluttershy.

The mare in question whimpered, locking gazes with her fillyfriend. Those shining aqua eyes, the pretty yellow face with the now roughed up mane. It all only added to Dash's heightened feelings for the pony beneath her.

"P-Please..." Fluttershy brought both her shaking forehooves together, begging desperately.

"Oh I'm sorry, did my hoof slip out?" Dash teased.

Fluttershy nodded slowly.

The cyan mare gave the glistening foreleg of hers a lick. The taste immediately shot straight to her brain, short circuiting her mind. She needed Fluttershy and Fluttershy needed her.

With a smirk Rainbow Dash settled down in a predatory stance facing the damp lingerie before her, glistening marehood partially visible beneath. She slowly began to undress her wanting lover's lower section, stripping away enough of the lingerie to offer unobstructed access. The cyan mare offered kisses and nibbles to the surrounding areas as she worked, ensuring that her mare would not loose any of her built up tension. She was careful to only lightly brush the wet folds as she worked. Each pass brought on a series of fresh moans of pleasure, indicating that her work was appreciated.

She placed her forehooves on Fluttershy's hips to prevent the incoming spasms and she slowly sucked in a breath of air. With lungs full of air she moved closer and closer until she was mere inches from the quivering marehood of her partner.

She softly blew on it.

"Ahh-hhhh...! Dash...!" Fluttershy cried, softly squirming.

Dash gently moved in, and ran her tongue along the entrance as if asking to be allowed in.

"P-Please..." Came Fluttershy's response, her breathing harsh as a wall of pleasure roared across her system.

Grinning, Dash nodded and her tongue darted inside of her entrance. The taste of Fluttershy was so much stronger when using her mouth, as well as the smell. She was certain no taste could ever possibly surpass this, as it was definitely the best taste ever. Eating her out was nothing like she imagined and it was far more amazing than she could have ever pictured.

And that was why it was awesome.

Humming to further add vibration, she found, Dash worked her magic on her lover. Of course, she had no idea what she was doing and was just using her mouth in various ways, with licking, suckling and nibbling. Yet, it seemed to work, considering the way Fluttershy was moaning and crying out in pleasure. She grinned, hummed a little more, and continued to happily eat her out.

She angled her nose so that her own hard breathing could add wind to the pleasure she was delivering to her mare.

Fluttershy tensed up, locking her hips. She could feel it, she was right on the edge with only the pleasuring from her friend driving her clouded mind forward. She was in total ecstasy, nothing else in the world matted except her loving protector.

It built up inside of her, growing at every second, to which she nearly wanted to stop because of how intense it was getting. But there was no escaping it, but of course, she was fine with that. All these years of fantasies were coming to fruition.

Finally, Dash grinned as she found the little nub, to which she eagerly took to giving attention to. That little nub bundled with nerves, the clitoris... She couldn't help but congratulate herself on actually paying attention during the Sex Education classes they had back in Flight School.

She attacked mercilessly at her clit with her tongue, lips and teeth, determined to make Fluttershy feel pleasured to the max. Her head was pushed more into the crevace as Fluttershy's hooves grabbed at her mane and head, holding her there. Dash more than happily surrendered, still performing her first oral sex on her beloved.

"R-Rainbow Dash...!" Fluttershy cried in pleasure, trembling beneath her. "I...I...ooohh! I think I'm...! Oooh...!"

Already? It seemed like she hardly got started! Or at least, that's how it felt to Rainbow Dash. Nonetheless, she returned her tongue to her entrance and darted it about inside, feeling the inner walls clamp down on the appendage. Her lips continued to give attention to the nub, working simultaneously with her tongue's actions.

That was all it took. Fluttershy actually yelled out Rainbow's name a lot louder than she ever had in her life as she climaxed. Her body became taut, she felt a strange leaking from her marehood, and her muscles contracted, then relaxed. It had felt like a strange burst of pleasure that overtook her entire being, and then just slowly faded away as she relaxed.

Rainbow Dash was taken aback when an onslaught of the strange nectar-like substance that had been matting Fluttershy's marehood suddenly came leaking out like a stream. It surprised her so much that only some of it ended up in her mouth, but a good portion of it ended up all over her muzzle. It was warm, sticky, but slick. She pulled her head up, blinking her eyes and taking a few breaths. Then Dash leaned back down and gently lapped in and around Fluttershy's sex to clean up the rest of the substance, and kissed it. Getting back up again, she licked around her muzzle to taste it further. It was just as amazing!

Looking down at Fluttershy, Rainbow melted and smiled brightly. She looked amazing in the afterglow of having been sexually pleasured. Her cheeks were flushed, sweat ran down her head, wisps of her mane were plastered to her face, her lips were parted as she panted, and her eyes were hazed over with lust and pleasure. To further add to the look, the sweet lingerie she half wore accentuated the entire sensuality of the moment.

"D-Dash." She lightly panted as her body started to relax. "Y-you were amazing..."

"Awesome!" Dash grinned, taking some excess off her face with her hoof and licking it, looking down at her partner with bedroom eyes, "I'm sure glad it was amazing for you, Flutters. It was awesome! You have no idea how amazing you taste!"

"Rainbow... You have something on your face. Here let me clean you up darling." The shy mare lifted herself up and pulled her lover back down on top of her.

She nuzzled the athlete, softly licking portions of her face clean. It was strange to taste herself on Dash like this. But she liked it in an odd way, there was something erotic about it, and it made her all the more curious to taste Dash's own juices.

Chuckling, Dash allowed her caregiving companion to do just that, even finding it arousing to see her actually tasting herself. When Fluttershy finished, the shy mare pulled her down into a kiss, which she happily returned.

Yet again Fluttershy tasted herself on Dash's tongue, lips, and in her mouth, all the more adding to the eroticism of the prospect. In a way, they were sharing it.

The two lovers pulled away from each other smiling radiantly at each other. "Your turn Rainbow."

"Are you sure, Fluttershy?" Dash asked, slightly concerned. "If you really don't want to do that, I'll understand if you-"

Fluttershy's response was to reflexively flip them over so that she was on top. She smiled seductively, her eyelids lowering, "I want to, my love... I want to make you feel just as amazing as you made me feel... I've wanted to go down on you for years..."

"Heh heh... Sonic Rainboom time..." Dash gave off a naughty chuckle, spreading her hind legs.

The lingerie around her marehood was already damp, suggesting that the bold mare was already more than just a little excited. Fluttershy gently pushed up the fabric a few inches to reveal her mare's glistening sex, which was indeed leaking ever so slightly. She touched it gently with a tentative hoof, experimenting. Sure enough, a pleasured little mewl escaped Rainbow Dash, who squirmed ever so slightly. Given how aroused she must have been, Fluttershy wasn't surprised.

The not so shy mare leaned down and ran a tender hoof along the wet spot eliciting another moan from her partner. Deciding the prolong the moment, Fluttershy lay down on top of the aroused mare. Dash looked at her with clouded eyes, unsure as to what she was trying to do.

In answer to the confused pegasus, Fluttershy cuddled up on top of her, nuzzling the tomcolt and giving her loving licks. Figuring she would try an alternative to the way her mare had gone, she slipped a creamy yellow wing inside the dampening garment. Yellow feathers brushed along the soft spot inside.

"Ahhhh...! Fluttershy!"

The yellow mare smiled as the pleasured Rainbow Dash called out her name. This must have meant she was doing a good job. She snuggled into the sweaty powerful frame of her soulmate and continued to allow her wing to brush against the wet marehood causing the pleasure pony beneath to squirm slightly as the pressure continued to rise.

"F-F-Fluttershy...!" Rainbow Dash groaned, arching her hips in response as her hooves dug into the mattress beneath her. "D-Don't stop...!"

"Oh...? What happens if I do...this?" She paused, causing a cry of dismay to escape from the pony below.

Smiling sweetly she wriggled in position and with a confident swipe from her hoof, pushed back the lingerie to reveal the gliding nethers below. She licked her lips, eyes glimmering as she took a closer look. Giggling, Fluttershy rose up again, using her other wing this time, running it along the slit.

With a sharp intake of breath, the aroused athlete arched her back, powerful wings causing her to rise a bit.

Cooing softly, Fluttershy gently pressed her back down with a firm forehoof.

"You want this, Rainbow?" She asked sweetly.

Looking up at her with eyes glazed over with lust and passion, Dash panted as she managed to nod, "Y-Yeah...! I want it, Fluttershy... I want you..."

The shy pony smiled down at her. "That's my Rainbow Dash..." She slowly rocked to the side, slipping her wing deep into Rainbow's entrance.

At the sharp intake of breath, Fluttershy giggled and wiggled her wing around, letting her feathery appendage expand and flutter as she felt herself grow very excited over what she was being allowed to do. At the sound of the high pitched grunts from Dash she continued her work, massaging the flexing cyan wings as she did. The soft pony ran her muzzle along her marefriend's tummy leaving a trail of butterfly kisses and the occasional lick as she worked her tensing wing faster and faster.

"A-Awesome...! Awesome...Flutters...!" Uttered the pleasured pony, breathing heavily and moaning loudly. "Yes...! Yeah! Ohhh!"

Fluttershy kept it going, amazed at how adept she came to be at this, despite her initial nervousness and uncertainty of the situation. She kissed her beloved's mammary glands, before moving back up and attacking her lips with a passionate kiss. Fluttershy ran her forehooves through her beloved's mane as she engaged in a heated kiss that caused her mind to begin to cloud over once more with lovestruck passion for her pleasured special somepony.

The lip lock caused the wet yellow wing to come out and Rainbow gave off soft pleading moans between kisses. She wanted her companion to continue her work... not stop! However, she allowed herself to get pulled into the vigorous kiss, running her hooves desperately along her mare's back.

Admittedly, the creamy yellow pegasus couldn't help but tease her lover a little bit, especially since she herself had been teased. She giggled, keeping the kiss going a few more prolonged moments, and then pulled back.

"Oh, I'm sorry...did you want more, sweetheart?"

"Yes...!" Pleaded the wet mare.

Fluttershy gave her a soft lick on the muzzle. In response, Dash giggled and yet whined lightly in protest. Answering her wordless plea, the not-so-shy pony inched her way down the aroused pegasus's body, licking and kissing along her tummy as she lifted the fabric of the lingerie a little higher until it was nearly bundled up around her chest. She ran a tentative hoof along the wet sex of her marefriend, all the while using her mouth to pleasure the perky nubs of her breasts. Feeling the cyan athlete slowly arch and squirm under the immense levels of pleasure washing over her caused Fluttershy to stop her work for a moment in a fit of giggles. She was immediately met by a further moan, begging her to continue. Big hazy red eyes gazed at her and she knew by the pleading look that there was no way Dash would allow her to stop now. She smiled broadly back, winking saucily at her fillyfirend.

"All right, Rainbow..."

With that, Fluttershy went lower, bringing her hooves down to Dash's soaked, quivering marehood. She placed her hooves on either side, gently parting the lips as she gazed upon the labia with curious awe. She leaned in, kissing her folds, before her eyes settled on her target.

A second or two passed, giving complete agony to the pleasured mare. She could feel the soft, warm breath of the yellow mare wash over her marehood, sending tingles up her body.

With a final smile Fluttershy leaned in and enclosed her mouth over her lover's sex. She suckled, nibbled and licked along the inner walls, running her tongue along her clitoris.

Rainbow Dash squeaked in a manner so unlike her, it was as if it were a figment of her imagination. But it was her, the squeak of pleasure had escaped her upon the intense ecstasy of the contact of Fluttershy's mouth on her fillyhood.

Fluttershy gently licked around the inside caverns, brushing her nose against the sides in her attempt to sink her tongue further in.

The athlete bucked her hips, pressing the surprised mare's face right up against her inner thigh, raising her hind legs and bringing them around Fluttershy's head. Dash moaned as the pleasure continued to build to unimaginable levels. She was about to... about to-

"FLUTTERSHYYYYY!" Dash cried out in pure ecstasy as she rode out a very intense and strong orgasmic wave, completely vocalizing everything to the very mare responsible. It was followed by noises sounding like grunts and squeals mixed together before her body collapsed against the mattress.

The slick substance gushed out, rushing along Fluttershy's tingling tongue, into her mouth and up her muzzle, catching her off guard. The second thing to hit her was the unique taste. It was unlike anything she had ever felt. Musky, sweet, tangy, and even salty. Mind spinning, she slowly lapped up the substance, relishing the new taste. The secret taste of Rainbow Dash that nopony else would ever get to sample. She gently cleaned up the wet area between the exhausted mare's hind legs, giggling to herself as the wasted speedster nearly passed out under the ministrations of her tongue.

The harsh panting of the quivering mare brought her slowly back to reality. She had done it. Fluttershy could not believe it. A fantasy of hers for some time, to be able to pleasure Rainbow Dash so much to the point of her screaming her name in pure pleasure, to taste her and eat her out, especially after having received it herself. She had actually gone through with such an intimate, sexual act, on her longtime best friend, now her lover. It was very overwhelming as her mind tried to make sense of the situation, her body quivering with excitement, and her wings flared stiffly.

The aftertaste of Dash remained on her mouth. Everything led to this. Everything. And she just loved it.

"Yay!" She softly cheered, working her way up to snuggle properly with her fillyfriend.

Though still overwhelmed with the aftermath of the sexual act, Rainbow Dash managed a smile and weakly lifted her forelegs to hug Fluttershy to her. She didn't just feel immensely pleasured, she felt even better than that. To have experienced this with somepony she loved so much, to have given this to her and then receive it back as they shared the experience together.

They had shared a lot of firsts together. And tonight was no different. Never in her life would she let another mare or stallion touch her like that, not after Fluttershy. Not after the only pony she ever loved.

"Fluttershy..." Dash panted out, stroking her beloved's mane, "That...was...awesome... You're good..." She nuzzled her, holding her tighter. "So awesome..."

The shy mare giggled softly, stroking the radiant mare under her. "Thank you Rainbow. You led well. As always." She softly cooed, beaming.

Dash smirked at her then pulled the willing pegasus in, bringing their lips together. Much as how Fluttershy had tasted herself earlier, it was now her turn to taste her own substance left over on Fluttershy's lips and tongue. The strange taste was utterly bizarre, but after going through one of the most special and private things two lovers could, it fitted rather well in the tingling aftermath. It was made all the more special knowing it came from Fluttershy's sweet, wonderful lips.

The two lovers relaxed on the bed in each others embrace. This had been the best day ever.

As the moments ticked by, neither of them noticed it was already well after 8:00. They had been all too busy in the moment, caught in each others love and passion.

Ponyville, Sugarcube Corner

"Well, it's after eight..." Twilight said, looking at the nearby clock and biting her lip. "And they haven't even shown up yet."

"Wonder what's takin' em so long?" Applejack mused, scratching her hat.

The party at Sugarcube Corner was in full swing... sort of, especially since it was between just the six (or rather, four) of them and Spike. But even well after the designated start time of the party, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy were nowhere to be seen. No sign or trace of them at all since they'd left to go about their flying business earlier that afternoon.

While it was not unusual for Rainbow Dash to be late, her fillyfriend was a different matter. Everypony had assumed that Fluttershy would be the one to ensure that they were on time. However it was clear that Rainbow must have managed to get them caught up in something.

"OH! I know! How about the four of us have a party!" Pinkie suggested as she brought Twilight into a hug, brightening already. "It'll be a Change of Plans Because Our Friends are Late party!"

She jumped up and fired her party canon, causing everypony to jump. Spike ran up to Rarity and offered her a hand back onto her hooves.

"Thank you Spike." The ladylike mare softly thanked her helper. "Why did you have to fire that preposterous thing Pinkie? You know I don't like it how you mess up my mane with that canon."

"Don't worry silly, your mane's fine." Pinkie leapt around, undeterred by the annoyed look being tossed her way.

The party pony disappeared, then reappeared with her hooves full of various party foods and wearing a massive grin upon her face. She slipped the first item in front of Twilight before setting off to serve her other friends.

"Ah say Pinkie. Ya' never cease to amaze us." Applejack chuckled, as she took a sip of her drink.

"I definitely can't argue with that..." Twilight agreed. "Well, Pinkie is right, though. There's no reason we can't still have a fun party together."

Applejack grinned and nodded as she adjusted her hat. "Ah'm with ya there, Twi!"

"I suppose it wouldn't be a horrid thing at all," Rarity shrugged a little. She felt a tap on her foreleg, to which she looked down and saw Spike smiling, holding a cupcake to her.

"For you, my lady! Care for a cupcake?" Spike asked as valiantly as possible.

The snow-white unicorn was taken aback by the kind gesture, and giggled. Rarity smiled, nodding as she took the cupcake. "Thank you, Spike! You're very sweet to offer! I would love a cupcake."

Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash lay in each others embrace. Everything was peaceful and quiet. The messed up lingerie lay at the foot of the bed the two were cuddled up in, completely forgotten.

The yellow mare suddenly shot up, remembering something important. "Dashie. What about the party?"

"Relax Fluttershy. Its not as if we can go now in the shape we're in." The cyan pegasus pulled her marefriend back down and into her strong embrace.

"But...but... it's our party." The timid pony protested.

"By now I bet Pinkie has renamed it to something crazy and continued without us. Now come on Fluttershy. Just relax." Dash ran a tender hoof though her Flutters mane.

"Oh... okay.” The shy mare gave up and cuddled back up to her mare.

The two lay there soaking up each other's warmth and love. Fluttershy snuggled into her partners coat. The strong smell of their lovemaking continued to hang in the air, the twin scents mingling seamlessly.

"Hey, you feel all right?" Dash whispered, nuzzling Fluttershy.

Giggling, Fluttershy nodded as her eyes closed in bliss, "I feel wonderful, Rainbow... Amazing. How...do you feel?"

"Me? I've never felt more awesome than this, Flutters! Just you and me... alone..." She smirked at her lover. "I've still got a few things I want to test out, mind you..."

"L...Like...what?" Fluttershy's eyes opened as she looked up at her. "What do you have in mind...?"

"Well... I could take you up high and show you. It's a little something I heard of called making it rain." The bold mare snickered softly as rather vivid sexual images of her yellow pegasus flashed through her head.

"...You...have weather duties at this hour and need to make a nighttime downpour?" Fluttershy tilted her head.

"Not quite. It involves the two of us on a nice comfy cloud. Alone..." Dash ran a hoof along her mares side, carefully ruffling the yellow feathers. "And no... Natural rain is not required."

"Oh... So do we work together to make the cloud rain then?" Fluttershy inquired, still not entirely sure about what exactly her fillyfriend had in mind.

Dash blinked. How Fluttershy managed to still stay so adorably innocent, even after they'd just gone down on one another, and knew all about sex, was beyond her. Undeterred, however, she kissed her deeply, running her hoof along her side some more and then down her flank. Her hind leg even coursed along her inner thighs, barely brushing her recovering marehood.

Pulling away, she smirked at her in a suggestive manner, "Nope. You and I are going to make love on a cloud, Flutters."

"Oh... My Rainbow is so imaginative sometimes." Fluttershy giggled, running a hoof through her lover's mane gently.

"You bet I am! I'm Rainbow Dash, after all!" Dash winked. "Let's just say I've always wanted to test a cloud..." She leaned over to the pretty yellow mare's ear and whispered, "with you..."

"O-oh... okay. I take it we don't need a bath before going out then?"

"Nope. It'll be more fun this way." Dash grinned as she traced a hoof along the now fluttering wings of her fillyfriend.

Fluttershy reluctantly rose from the protective, loving embrace of her cyan pegasus. "Well then my naughty Rainbow... how about showing me a new trick?" She smiled shyly at the grinning mare before her.

"Sounds good to me. I guess I can count on you to be my cheerleader?" Dash whispered seductively, narrowing her eyes and licking her lips.

"Yes. I will try." She jumped off the bed and turned to face her stunning companion who was still lounging in bed.

"Awesome!" Now Dash leaped off the bed, opening the window. "Then let's fly!"

Two lovers landed on a nice big fluffy cloud. There was nothing around, no pony or airborne creature to disturb their private time.

With a swish of her rainbow mane, the bold mare turned to face her companion. "Well, Flutters... What have we learned?" Dash asked, grinning.

"Loss of control..." Fluttershy managed to retain a straight face as she answered.

"Yes. And?"

"Screaming and hollering..."

"And most important?"

"Passion." The animal caretaker nuzzled her companion eagerly.

"Right! Now that you know the elements of a good buck... let's have one!"

Fluttershy turned bright red and let out an adorable little 'eep' then burst into adorable little giggles.

Rainbow Dash advanced on her fillyfriend with a naughty look on her face. Fluttershy met her with a beckoning, loving smile.

Wings Fluttering with raw excitement, the grinning mares met in the middle, wrapping their hooves around each other as they smothered each other in kisses. The scent of mating already hung over them, so it took no time at all for them to get "warmed up" for the upcoming big event, so to speak.

Tearing her lips away, Dash leaned further down, kissing and nibbling along Fluttershy's neck. The delighted, enraptured giggles from the pegasus beneath her were all but intoxicating and encouraging.

The delighted yellow pegasus fell, giggling onto the cloud, offering a most intimate view of herself to her partner. She continued to giggle at the sight of her fillyfriend's reaction as the cyan mare's wings shot up to full extension and her eyes began to glaze over with lust.

"You were wanting something Rainbow?" The downed pegasus softly asked.

"You definitely read my mind, Flutters..." Dash licked her lips as she smirked down at her lover devilishly. "I just have one thing to do before we get started."

"W-What is it, Rainbow?" Fluttershy cocked her head to the side as she stuttered, unsure about what the change in plans could mean.

Smirk growing, Dash stood, towering over Fluttershy like a predator. Her hind leg snaked between her legs, rubbing at her nether regions enticingly. A loud gasp came from the aroused creamy yellow pegasus, to which Dash continued stroking her hind hoof along Fluttershy's marehood.

Fluttershy was moaning within a few seconds, overtaken by the little bursts of pleasure that coursed through her. The bold pegasus grinned, she was certainly getting the response she had been hoping for. She slid down a bit, allowing her fluttering wings to brush against the moist area.

"D-da-ash...!" The quivering yellow pegasus cried out as the brush of the feathers threw pangs of ecstatic pleasure though her system.

"Yes 'Shy?"

She received no answer as the pegasus beneath her began to moan louder, completely overtaken by the hot ministrations.

The enticing sounds, mingling in with the scents in the cool night air drove Rainbow Dash's wings to their full extension, whipping along the tender spot on their way up. This caused Fluttershy to wriggle as the sensations drove all other thoughts and feelings from her mind. She wanted her fillyfriend. No... needed her.

"Rainbow!" She caressed the rainbow mane with a forehoof, trying to draw the bold mare in further. "Oh...Rainbow...! Oh, take me! Take me now, Rainbow!"

Dash giggled with a cunning look in her eye. "Does my precious little Fluttershy want something?" She nuzzled up to the aroused pony, giggling as her companion tried to pull her into a more intimate embrace.

Fluttershy looked up at her with pleading eyes. "Yes...! Please! I need you!"

The bold pegasus ran a hind hoof along her companion's marehood as she scooted up to bring their muzzles together. The contact drew a pleasured gasp from the normally quiet pony.

"Gee, Fluttershy, somepony's being awfully loud tonight. I guess I've got you in a good mood there don't I-" She almost collapsed as Fluttershy boldly ran a hind hoof along her own sex.

She sunk into the embrace of her fillyfriend, who immediately laid into her with butterfly kisses all over her muzzle.

The pretty yellow pegasus broke contact, gazing into her companion's shining cerise eyes with a lusty look upon her face. "Please, I need you..." She gently nuzzled the excited cyan pony, her surprisingly intense, strong grip told her partner she was done messing around.

"And I need you, pretty pony..." Rainbow cooed, kissing her nose. She lifted herself off, slowly, since her body resisted it. A set of glistening aquamarine eyes followed her the whole way, impatiently waiting.

Once she sat up, the bold blue pegasus toppled over onto her back, spreading her hind legs wide, using her forehooves to support herself on the cloud. "O-Okay...let's try this..."

Fluttershy gave her a brief look of confusion. Why was she choosing to lie down like that? What happened to using her hoof and tongue?

The cyan pegasus inched closer, slowly, getting them into what could only be described as a scissor position, with both their marehoods in direct contact with each other. Dash trembled, raising her hips to further the contact.

The contact was like nothing the couple had yet felt. Soft, sensitive folds rubbed against each other, cyan mixing with yellow. Slowly dampening as the sexual tension rose within each pony.

Bolts of sensual electricity flew through the two lovers systems, flowing as if over charged, sending both mares into the realms of ecstasy. And this was only the start.

Like this they lay, slowly rubbing their nethers together, Rainbow Dash in control, adding to the slow grind with the occasional thrust.

"D-Do you...like this...Flutters...?"

Soft moans emanated from the other pegasus as she allowed the new contact to send yet a new wave of raw pleasure washing over her. "Y-y-ye-es...!" She managed in between gasps.

Dash nodded and then manoevered her hips along to rub their glistening nether regions together, rather more intensely than before. It felt wonderful, to be this close to her, even without having to use her hooves, mouth or her wings! She groaned at the back of her throat, thrusting her hips a bit harder, feeling her forelegs giving out before she collapsed completely, but still she somehow kept going, propelled onwards by her lover.

Fluttershy cried out and worked her own hips in response to her marefriends. Fighting against the immense waves of pleasure that were assaulting her, she managed to prop herself up slightly. The mare of her dreams looked so amazing, mane in a mess and her beautiful cyan coat faring no better. The sight of the rainbow maned pony at work, glazed red eyes shining in the night, caused her mind to blaze like a bonfire of passion.

Determined to add her own spark to the night, the normally shy, delicate animal caretaker gave her partner everything she had, grating marehoods together at an increasing pace, fighting with the need to stop and allow herself to simply receive.

No this time, she was going to show her fillyfriend how far she could go. How fast she could go. How well she could match her athletic partner.

She looked forward to their little trial escalating.

"F-Fluttershy..." Rainbow gasped, looking at her with hazed, lusty eyes,

"Y-Y-Yes...Rainbow...?" Fluttershy uttered, opening her eyes partway to gaze at the raw beauty who was causing her so much pleasure.

Managing to smile amidst her panting and moaning, Dash whispered, "...I love you..."

A sweet smile overcame Fluttershy's face, "I...I love you, too..."

They continued grinding and thrusting into each other's marehoods, both of which were beginning to leak onto the cloud underneath.

Fluttershy could feel it building, the same dam about to burst that ruptured earlier was now threatening a repeat session as she continued to relish the feel of her lovers wet marehood against her own.

Dash felt the bubbling volcano too as they continued to share lovejuces upon the cloud. Her mind was completely clouded over now. All that remained was the pony who was rubbing up against her nether region.

Both enraptured mares reached the heights of ecstasy as a few more rubs did the trick. Rainbow Dash came first, yelling out a breathy and slightly squealed version of Fluttershy's name. Fluttershy soon followed, crying out loudly, followed by a sweet squeal of Rainbow's name. They collapsed on the cloud, still partially joined together as their legs and hips relaxed.

A couple of minutes passed before either of them could move, or at least, wanted to move. There was just something so beautiful and erotic about having their leaking marehoods so close together like that. Dash made a note to herself to make sure they would do this again in future lovemaking activities.

Right when Dash felt ready to try to move, Fluttershy not only beat her to it, but actually crawled on top of her. The yellow pony nestled upon her, snuggling in and sighing in contentment. Smiling with love, Rainbow brought her tired forelegs around her and held her close, encasing her into a protective and warm embrace.

"Hey there snuggly, was that awesome or what?" Dash asked, grinning widely at the content pony on top of her.

"Oh yes..." Fluttershy cooed lovingly, giggling. "That was amazing, Rainbow... How...did you know about that?"

"Me? I paid attention in class." She giggled. "And day dreamed on clouds... way too much..."

"Hee...me too..." Fluttershy admitted, blushing all the more, if that were possible.

Her equally heated companion ran a hoof through her now sagging yellow wings, softly, relishing the feel of feathers against her hoof.

"Noooo..." Fluttershy laughed, wiggling a bit.

"Yes..." Dash cooed softly, coaxing the feathery appendages to life.

"If you keep doing that...you're...hee hee...going to get me...hee...aroused..."

Dash giggled like a naughty school filly. "We're already wet, what's bit more?"

"I...I don't know if I can take any-oooohhh!"

"You were saying?" Ruby eyes lit up the night as the eager speedster came very close to outright begging for more.

Fluttershy's wings sprang to life yet again, flaring to their full extent.

"What do you say Fluttershy? Wanna go another round? We can go slowly this time..."

Panting a little, Fluttershy nodded and smiled, "Yes..."

As the party continued on, unaware of the reason behind the two lovers absence, the two ponies in question continued to lie on their cloud, bathing in each others love.

Meanwhile, on the borders of Equestria, unfriendly eyes watched, waiting.

Chapter Eight: Picnics and Griffins

Chapter Eight: Those Eyes

Manehatten, past city borders

On a small road to the blissful city unfriendly eyes watched, waiting.

Waiting...

Waiting...

Suddenly, something spoke in a coarse voice. “They should be here by now.”

“Shut up! We don’t need some stupid pony taking notice.” Reprimanded another.

The eyes continued to peer out from the roadside, watching the peaceful city of Manehatten.

Suddenly, a small troop of griffins rounded a corner. They marched slowly along the road as if on their way to the city. They bore no markings to identify themselves and were garbed in light leather armor. They all had no use for weapons due to the extremely sharp looking talons that clacked lightly with each step.

“Yes....” Expelled one happy watchers as the group marched closer.

The twelve griffins came to a halt, not far from the where the eyes were keeping their silent watch. Their leader, a young muscular griffin who wore extra trimming on his shoulder plates stepped forward.

He glanced around and wondered where the creatures he was supposed to meet were situated.

Silence.

Typical.

They always seemed to enjoy their cloak and dagger games and as much as the young captain enjoyed sneaking about with his unit, he was getting sick of how hard their allies were to find.

“Sometimes I wonder why the council bothers with those creatures... its not like we need them to take over Equestria anyway...” One cocky young griffin muttered as the troupe idled in wait.

“The grand master knows we need them, so shut it, or you’ll get us all killed.” Threatened the pack leader before he turned to survey the landscape once more.

“Birdbrain Volibeak...” Muttered one of the rear troopers.

Before the captain could get violent toward the offending griffin he heard a noise and with flared wings, turned to face the side of the road.

A rough hiss escaped from the bushes causing a grin to cross the griffin patrol leader’s face. He set off at a slow march, motioning for his fellow griffins to follow him.

The unit stalked into the outcropping to find themselves face to face with a pack of changelings.

The evil creatures were everywhere. In every bush, tree and shrub they dwelt, leering at the newcomers.

The lead griffin cleared his throat. “I, Captain Volibeak demand to speak to the scaly in charge here.” He demanded as his long claws dragged the soil underclaw with as much menace as he could muster.

“I am.” Hissed one of the jet black creatures, it’s jade green eyes flashing in the late day sun. “You griffinzess are late...” It added before morphing into a bear, gaining a height advantage over the now smaller griffin.

Not one to back down, Captain Volibeak took a step forward. “We encountered a few... problems along the way. But... they are ‘fixed.’ Not that you scum would care.”

“All that matters is that you are late... Our queen grows restless... We hunger for the love within this nation.” Replied the towering bear with a cruel grin upon its face.

“And you can have their love.” Butted in the lead griffin. “We don’t care about that... All I want to know is... have you found the relic?”

His question was met by an irate glare from the bear as it continued to tower over its ally.

“Yesss.”

Silence met the reply as the bear turned and began stalking off as if nothing had happened.

“Well then, where is it?” Arrogantly asked Captain Volibeak.

“We can show you.” The bear’s form flickered for a moment before it retuned to the jet-black changeling. “But our queen wishes for you lot to be the ones to retrieve it.”

“That is fine by me.” Gruffly replied the irate griffin. “Get a move on then.”

The slinky changling appeared to grin at his ...friend... before it turned, opened it’s wings and began buzzing off. The rest of the unnatural looking creatures followed suit, sticking close to the ground as they flew off. The small griffin troop stood in shock as more and more changlings appeared, seemingly out of nowhere, rapidly forming a swarm of death.

“If this is their scouting party... I would hate to see their war party...” Remarked one griffin as she stood in awe of their allies numbers.

The lead griffin huffed. “But we are superior creatures. Now move your hides, before I skin them.”

The rest of the small scouting group took off obediently into the sky, flying above the warped creatures below as they allowed themselves to be led along toward their goal.

Ponyville, Fluttershy’s Cottage

Rainbow Dash awoke to a sight she had previously only dreamed of. The pretty yellow face of the mare of her dreams glowed, inches away from her own. Soft warm breaths from the sleeping pony sent tingles along Rainbow Dash’s neck as Fluttershy continued to dream. Shining red eyes wandered along the face of her loved one, studying every little detail. She slowly began to recall the events of the night before, the amazing time she had shared with her fillyfriend. It was almost too good to be true. Yet here she was lying on a cloud with her long time crush wrapped up in her forehooves.

Her body slowly began itching for some action and she contented herself with running a hoof through the messed up pink mane that mingled with her own polychromatic one. She felt both a little tired from the nights activities as well as extraordinarily refreshed. It was an unusual sensation that overall left her felling like a new pony. Something momentous had happened and it made the lack of sleep worth it. The light blue daredevil began to grin slowly, she knew they now had something extra to look forward to doing together. Fluttershy was now well and truly hers and she intended to be the coolest and best fillyfriend ever!

Despite her urges to stretch her wings, she found it easy to remain locked in the cozy embrace. Fluttershy was just so warm and cuddly, it was hard not to enjoy simply idling with her. In fact, it felt like could happily remain in her embrace like this forever! That sounded all too appealing. She would just about give up her wings if it meant she could remain in her loving hooves...

Fluttershy stirred lightly, shifting a bit and sleepily nuzzling her fillyfriend.

“Hey there, beautiful... are you awake yet?” The cheeky mare asked coyly.

“Mmmm... no... don’t wake me up... I want to be with my Dashie.” Fluttershy murmured in her sleep.

“Well how about you stop dreaming about me then, I’m right here...” Rainbow grinned widely as a sense of victory welled up inside.

“No you’re not...”

The bold mare blew gently upon the yellow snout in her face making it twitch in the most adorable of ways. “Oh yes I am, snuggly.”

“Nopony can call me that but my Rainbow...” The sleepy mare complained, running a hoof along the cyan mare’s head and ruffling her mane.

“Oh, but I am your Rainbow, snuggles.” Dash snickered, having a ball with her sleepy companion. “So why don’t you wake up?”

“No...” The wistful whine melted the athlete’s strong heart, this was all too cute to be a normal day in the life of Rainbow Dash.

“Come on.” Dash lightly licked her nose.

“Ee!” Fluttershy squeaked, her face twitching as she brought a hoof up to brush along her nose.

“Is my pretty pegasus awake now?” The cheeky mare asked.

“....Fine...I’m awake...” Fluttershy pouted, opening her eyes. She blinked, looking a bit surprised. “...Rainbow?”

“Who else but awesome old me?” Beamed the egotistical pegasus, lighting up the sunny mare’s world.

“...So... last night was...?” Fluttershy asked hopefully.

“Why do you think we’re on a wet cloud?” Dash giggled like a naughty filly.

“...Oh... hee...” Fluttershy blushed, a forehoof arriving quickly to cover her heating muzzle.

Dash stroked the shy pony gently, savoring the moment. “Hey Flutters. How about we go get cleaned up and then I’ll take you out to breakfast? My treat.”

“Oh... okay. Um... I... I should probably tend to my animals first. They are probably all wondering where I’ve gone.”

“You do that, I’ll help if you need it.” Dash winked. She picked herself up, allowing a slow stretch to overcome her body, working all the kinks out.

Fluttershy smiled, before standing slowly and doing as her partner did, “Thank you, Rainbow.”

They flew off, heading back to Fluttershy’s cottage. As it turned out, they hadn’t gone too far, especially since Fluttershy’s cottage was in a remote location, after all. It only took a couple of minutes by way of leisurely flight to get back, anyway.

The two young lovers touched down, right outside the front door. Fluttershy nuzzled her messy companion softly. “Now... how about I start them off and if I need any help, you can join in. I don’t want you to scare any of my cute little critters.”

“You got it,” Dash kissed the still glowing yellow mare on the cheek and strutted off to sit nearby, happy enough to watch and get a few more easy moments of waking up.

Angel came outside, having heard them talking. He looked a mixture of annoyed and slightly confused, especially since he wondered where his caretaker had gone all night. But as he came near, he scrunched up his nose and waved his paw as if to ward off a bad smell.

“What is it, Angel? Is something wrong?” Fluttershy softly asked, approaching her little pet.

Angel gave her a look as if to say “Are you serious?”.

She lent down to pick him up but he bounded out of reach. The bunny rapidly began pointing first at her, and then at his nose, he then waved his paw as if trying to ward off a bad smell. Then he fell on his back clutching at his throat, pretending to choke to death under the ever so slightly noticeable assault of the musky smell wafting from the two lovebirds.

“....Oh goodness...I’m so sorry, Angel! You’re right... Once I finish tending to everyone, Rainbow and I will take a bath to get cleaned up, don’t worry.” Fluttershy assured.

He tossed her an annoyed look, especially appalled by how she could let her mane become such a mess and bounded angrily off to go find his own food. As soon as he made it inside he slammed the front door. There was no way he was letting that randy rainbow pegasus back inside without a bath. Two sweaty pegasi were too much for his poor nose!

“Looks like we should have taken a dip first.” Dash commented wearing a grin upon her muzzle.

“But I’m sure we can’t be that bad... It’s only like I smell a little of you.”

Dash giggled. “Yea... I see that little pest likes the smell of me so much, I nearly killed him.”

“Oh, he’s only being overly dramatic, Rainbow.” Fluttershy nuzzled her mare, inhaling the erotic scent that she had already grown to enjoy from her companion.

“Figured,” Dash chuckled. “But you do look like you need a bath. I’ve given you my messed up mane.”

The pretty pink maned mare slowly turned, a purposeful stride in her step as she moved off to tend to her pets, tail waving coyly in the air. “Well what if it suits me right now. I’m sure my Dashie needs a bath more than me. I can’t remember the last time I saw you shower.”

“Hey! Not fair!” Complained the speedster. “I do shower, and you know it!”

The buttery mare gave a departing wink, “and when you do, I’m sure you will look even prettier for me.”

Fluttershy went to work on finishing up tending to her animals. As much as she would have preferred a bath right now with her mare, the strong blue pegasus decided to wait a moment to allow her fillyfriend some time with the pets. Rainbow Dash smirked as she watched her fillyfriend’s hindquarters, feeling her wings rise as she caught a glimpse of what the messy tail hid.

“Bath time!” Called out the speedy mare, grabbing the surprised pegasus in her forehooves as she lifted off into the air.

The athlete gracefully looped around in mid air, flying right down into the peaceful creek that ran alongside the house. Fluttershy gasped in shock as the cold water impacted with her.

“How’s that, Fluttershy?” Dash grinned cheekily as she floated under the shocked pony.

“Rainbow!!” Fluttershy whined, shivering and pouting. “....Why did you do that? It wasn't fair.”

“Nope. You gave me a free shot.” The cheeky mare ran her hoof along said area, causing the shy pony on top to ‘eep’ and jump.

“Dash, you naughty pony!” Fluttershy slapped the offending blue hoof.

“You weren’t complaining last night...” Rainbow purred, smirking.

“Well.... no...” Fluttershy blushed, looking away for a moment. “But this isn’t fair... you killed the mood. Bad Dashie! Don’t do it again, please. ...i-if that’s okay with you.” As her sentence faltered, her gaze fell to the water in submission.

A guilty look overcame the cyan pegasus then as she brought a foreleg around her shoulders. “I’m sorry, Fluttershy. I guess I wasn’t thinking, was I? I didn’t mean to make you upset.”

“It’s okay. We’re still learning...” Fluttershy snuggled into her wet mare. “You’re so much warmer than this stream...” She cooed, gently yet dominantly pressing her pegasus back into the water.

“Well, I am Rainbow Dash... and I’m on fire, baby!” Dash giggled, allowing her lover to snuggle in close.

Fluttershy giggled as she continued to cuddle into the plush cyan coat. “Now... how about we have a proper bath? I don’t think my stream is made for ponies to wash up after a... special night... I-if that’s okay with you?”

“What the hay... but you’re taking it with me, Flutters,” Dash smirked.

“I never said I wouldn’t.” And with that, the emboldened pegasus whipped up a wing adding a further layer of muddy water to her already drenched companion’s coat.

Fluttershy let out a light giggle before leaping ungainly out of the stream and rushing inside with her fillyfriend hot on her trail.

After their bath, the two mares dried off with Fluttershy’s warm, fluffy towels as they sat on the living room floor. Of course, Fluttershy snuggled close, to which Rainbow Dash happily accepted and cuddled her fillyfriend close.

“...Rainbow?”

“Yes?” Dash asked, a confident grin plastered across her face.

Hesitating with what she was about to ask, the creamy yellow pegasus looked around nervously for a moment. She bit her lip, considering whether or not to go through with it, Fluttershy managed to gaze into her companion’s curious cerise eyes that met her own. She realized now was pretty much as good at time as any. Too soon, maybe, but then again, considering everything else, it didn’t seem like a stretch at all. At least, she hoped it wasn’t.

Heart pounding, muscles contracting, and her stomach churning with anxiety, Fluttershy voiced her little wish in a soft whisper as she looked up at her lover pleadingly. “Rainbow Dash... would you like to move back in with me?”

A massive grin spread across the light blue mares face. “Fluttershy... I’d love to!”

“Really...? Y-you don’t mind living here again? I know how much you wanted to get away and have your own, more awesome place.”

“Well, sure! It was my first place too, so I know my way around! Living here again will be cool. I'll even keep my cloud house so we can use it as a ‘vacation’ retreat!” Dash pacified, grinning as widely as her muzzle would allow.

“Yay!” Fluttershy cheered, hugging the smiling pegasus.

“You didn’t think I’d say no did you?”

“Well... no. Um... Maybe...?” The meek reply was barley audible, even in the quiet of Fluttershy’s cottage.

“We have got to work on that.” Remarked Dash.

“Work on what?” Asked the shy pony, still recovering from the aftermath of the good news.

“That... you know. The whole being too shy to ask something. I’ve always been happy to move back in! I just thought that maybe you needed some more space.”

Fluttershy stood in silence for a few moments as she processed the new information. “Thank you Rainbow Dash. That means a lot to me, really.”

“Hey Fluttershy... How many spare sets of bedsheets do you have?” The cheeky speedster giggled, wearing a cunning look upon her face.

Fluttershy looked confused. “Um... you don’t want to sleep in the same bed? If you’d rather not, that’s okay! I don't mind... it can be just like when we first moved here... and back at the apartment... But I do have plenty of spare linen.”

“No, Fluttershy!” Dash cut her off before she could assume too much, “You missed my point... you know...” She nuzzled up to her mare, lifting one of her hind legs to come into contact with Fluttershy’s nether regions.

“O-Oooh....!” Fluttershy trembled at the contact. “I-I... see what you mean... But um... well... my bed is too small... we should... get a bigger bed...”

“I think that can be arranged!” Dash winked. “My bed’s a bit on the small side, too. Awesome, but small for two ponies. Tell you what, I’ll bring my stuff here later, and then we’ll go find a nice big bed!”

“Okay, and I’ll buy the linen for it.” Fluttershy smiled.

“As long as it’s soft like my clouds and looks cool, that works for me!”

“I’ll do my best, my love.” Fluttershy replied as she snuggled back into the embrace of her fillyfriend.

“Right... now how about I take you out for some awesome breakfast?” Dash exclaimed, almost throwing her partner off.

“Hee... sure...” Fluttershy giggled, thankful that her fillyfriend was excited to share such a thing at least.

Rainbow Dash led her fillyfriend out the door and immediately took off into the sky. Dash giggled as she offered her hoof to her pretty yellow partner. The shy mare accepted it and allowed the bold to assist her into the sky. Both were ready to begin a new day in their lives together, so to speak. While they certainly had taken big steps in the past few weeks, it all felt right to them. Having not only been friends since fillyhood, as well as having lived together ever since they were older fillies, it just made sense and felt like falling back into an old routine.

Fluttershy hoped, that since things had changed drastically since they moved to Ponyville, Rainbow Dash would still be fine with them living together in her cottage again.

Pinkie Pie was working the register at Sugarcube Corner that morning, happily humming to herself as she cheerfully served the customers. Just as always, she was having a super day and felt nothing less than the happy tingles of joy when she managed to make the customers smile upon giving them their desired treats.

The pink Earth pony paused, concentrating for a moment on her Pinkie Sense. She smiled then, knowing exactly what was going to come.

Pinkie giggled to herself. “Dashie’s going to crash into the shop in about five seconds!”

The front door burst open and in flew Rainbow Dash with her elated fillyfriend clutched in her hooves as if the shy mare were her bride.

“Guess what, Pinkie! We’re getting married!” Cried a very elated cyan pegasus, trailing her signature polychromatic trail.

The pink party pony’s jaw hit the floor. A dead, stony silence now filled the bakery for a few moments. At least, until Pinkie sprang to life again, what with having let the information sink in.

“You’re what? Dashie that’s amazing!” Pinkie sprung into the air like a shell from one of her canons. “Ooh! This calls for a massive party! Oooooohh!! And I’ll throw your reception and make your cake! Yay!! This will be wonderful!”

“Oh, what will be wonderful, darling?” Rarity queried as she walked into the shop.

“Hi, Rarity! Guess what?! Dashie and Flutters are getting married!”

The alabaster unicorn looked like she had just been hit by a sledgehammer.

“What?!” She quickly recovered as her mind pieced together the unexpected news. “Oh darlings! It’s so wonderful to hear!” She rushed up to the two pegasi who were still wrapped in each others hooves.

“Well... actually...” Fluttershy began.

“This is marvelous!! Oh, Fluttershy, you must allow me to make your wedding dress! It would be my honour! Rainbow Dash, I will also construct a fine dress for you, too!”

“Um, actually...” The quiet pegasus once again attempted to get a word in.

“Now now, dear! I insist!” Rarity waved her hoof. “I’ll be sure to make dresses for the wedding party, of course! We’ll all have a meeting about it later on!”

Dash let out an immature giggle. Things were getting to be too good!

“But... Rarity...” A very brushy yellow pegasus attempted, one last time.

“Ooooooooohhh!!! That sounds nice, Rare-bear!” Pinkie giggled brightly. “Who’s gonna be the bride?!! Fluttershy? I knew it! Dashie, who do you want to be your best mare?! I bet it’ll be Applejackie! Or you can pick me! But wait, nope! I’m doing the reception and helping with catering yummy treats, so Applejackie it is! Where’s Twi-Twi? She can help organize the wedding itself, she’s super duper good at organizing!!”

At the end of the party mare’s raving, Rainbow Dash couldn’t take it any longer, she toppled over onto the floor laughing. A very embarrassed Fluttershy gazed down at her.

“Rainbow Dash! Why in Equestria are you laughing?! This isn’t funny! This is a joyous occasion! I would expect you to take your upcoming marriage to Fluttershy seriously!” Rarity chided.

“That’s exactly it!” Managed the pony in hysterics before she continued to laugh raucously.

“It’s exactly what, Dashie?” Pinkie cocked her head curiously, joy still permeating out of her like a waterfall of chocolate.

“Best... joke... ever!” Cyan hooves pounded the ground, trying to relieve her aching tummy as laughter continued to rack her body.

“I had nothing to do with it... she just... did it on the spot...” Fluttershy admitted, looking away shamefacedly.

“Oh darling! I’m sorry!” Rarity came up to her yellow friend and offered her a hug. “I never meant to embarrass you.”

Fluttershy smiled, “It’s okay, Rarity... I-I think it was very sweet of you.”

“So... it’s cancelled?” Pinkie whimpered sadly, mane wilting.

“Darling, it was never on to begin with. It was all just a crazy joke from our town prankster here.” Rarity turned to the grinning culprit, giving her an angry glare.

“Awww, but Dashie, that’s saddy waddy! You don’t want to marry Flutters? But why not?” Pinkie pouted.

Rainbow Dash resisted the urge to facehoof, instead wrapping a wing around her shy companion. “Look, Pinks. Come on, it's too soon!”

Pinkie grinned, instantly recovering. “Okay!”

Blushing, but smiling appreciatively, Fluttershy giggled and nuzzled her lover.

“Sorry about being too fast for you there Fluttershy. I don’t want to push you.” The cyan mare whispered back.

“Rainbow... All you need to do is ask.”

Dash blushed, looking away with a bashful smile. It was almost hard to resist actually seeing that through. Then again, she wasn’t even sure if they were ready for that. Dash knew she certainly wasn’t ready, even if her shy fillyfriend was. Which was odd considering what had happened yesterday and this morning. But she figured it better to wait until a more appropriate better time.

Besides, Fluttershy deserved a much better marriage proposal than this.

“I think I’ll pass on that, Fluttershy.”

For one split second, Fluttershy looked stricken. “...Oh, okay. I'm sorry.”

“But only for now. We should wait. And besides, I'd rather ask you to marry properly. You know... do it in the most awesomest way ever... I'm not so good at being sappy, so that's why I kinda need more time to think about it. What I meant to say to Pinkie was it was too soon... But I do want to in the future.” A little smirk overcame the daredevil's face as she whispered in her ear, “Promise.”

Inwardly berating herself for having doubted Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy smiled and nuzzled her fillyfriend again, nodding, “I understand, Rainbow. You're absolutely right. We should wait.” Turning to their friends, she spoke up. “There... is one thing, though... We... well... decided to move back in together.”

“Yay! I still get to throw a party! Moving in party time! Look out, Pinkie Pie coming through!” The party pony bounced ecstatically out into the kitchen. “Party next week! Don’t miss it!”

“We won’t.” Dash replied to the long gone party pony.

“Well, I guess.” Fluttershy shyly said.

“You two girls missed your party yesterday. I think you at least owe Pinkie that much.” Rarity smiled kindly at the couple.

“Oh yeah...” Dash grinned mischievously as the memory of what they had done instead of the party sprung to mind.

“Um...! Sorry... we were... well we um... were doing things! And unpacking boxes!” Fluttershy gulped. “And lost track of the time.”

Rarity giggled. “Fluttershy dear, you really are no good at lying. Whatever happened must have been good for the two of you to skip out on a Pinkie party.”

“Yep! It was fun. Fluttershy and I got to unpack a few things too.” The mischievous look had yet to leave the cyan mare’s face as she told the half truth.

Rarity raised an eyebrow, but then caught on. “Oh... well at least you managed to enjoy yourselves...” She giggled.

“So! You two will be there for the Moving In Party, right?!” Pinkie Pie grinned, bouncing up to the pair.

“Yes Pinkie. We will.” Fluttershy promised with a smile. “It's the least we could do for having missed out, and we do apologize for that.”

The spastic earth pony leapt for joy, accompanied by several streamers. “Oh goodie! I don’t want to find two of my bestest best friends in the whole of Equestria to have bailed again to have sweet kinky pegasus sex! But that's okay, you sillies! I wouldn't want you to show up feeling completely tense, anyway!”

Fluttershy squealed in surprise and hid her face in Rainbow’s mane at the very open declaration Pinkie had made.

“Pinkie! We would never do that!” Rainbow Dash cried out defensively.

“Oh yes you would.” The springy mare bounced closer, a cheeky grin covering her whole face. “Why else would your coats shine and your mane look so nice and your-”

Dash stuck a cyan hoof in the overtalktive pony’s mouth “Okay we get it. Just.... please calm down. You’re embarrassing Fluttershy.” She rocked her fillyfriend back and forth comfortingly. By the blush on both their faces, it was clear that Fluttershy wasn’t the only pony embarrassed.

“I'm fine, Rainbow.” Fluttershy said with indignation, but did nothing to stop their sweet contact.

The door to Sugarcube corner once again opened to reveal Twilight Sparkle, who wore a smile on her muzzle, delighted to see her friends.

“Hiiiiiii Twi-Twi!” Pinkie bounded up to her unicorn friend and hugged her.

“Hello Pinkie. What is going on here?” Twilight asked with a lost look upon her face. Nonetheless, she returned the hug and patted the earth pony's back.

“Oh, we were talking about things!” Pinkie giggled.

“Things that make such wonderful news and gossip!” Rarity gushed, she couldn’t help herself.

Fluttershy paled at the alabaster mare’s remark. “Rarity, please, no. Don't start spreading this around. I'm not saying it's because we want to keep it secret, but it's just that I don't want anypony else knowing our business.”

“Darling, don’t you worry, I only said it would make gossip. Not that I would actually spread it,” assured the snow white unicorn, patting her friend on the head.

“O-okay, thank you.”

“Okay, Pinks! Hand over the goods! ….Yeah, that’s the real reason for here. Food!” Rainbow spoke up then, motioning to the pink earth pony.

“Okey-dokey-lokie!” Pinkie nodded, before she bounced off to the kitchen.

Twilight blinked a few times, looking around the room. “So... what is going on?”

“May I?” Rarity asked the new couple.

Fluttershy glanced up at Rainbow Dash who grinned down at her lovingly. “It’ll be okay. She’s only Twilight.”

“I know, and of course we can tell her,” Fluttershy smiled.

“Well, dear,” the alabaster unicorn turned back to Twilight, “Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy are moving back in together!”

“Really?” Twilight’s confused look broke into a smile, “Aww, that’s great, you two! I guess it’ll be nice to be living together again, won’t it?”

“Yep, it’ll be awesome!” Rainbow Dash replied as she held herself proudly by her fillyfriend’s side. “Fluttershy and me are going to have so much fun!”

“Oh...” Fluttershy giggled, flattered at her sweet compliment. “Well yes...it’s going to be lovely...” She gently nuzzled her fillyfriend, enjoying how open her affections were around their friends.

“Okay, get a room you two.” Twilight said, cutting into their moment of intimacy.

“Don’t ya’ll encourage ‘em!” Applejack laughed as she came into the room from the kitchen. “Howdy, y’all! Ah was just helpin’ out in the kitchen since Ah have some free time this mornin’!”

“Hey there, AJ!” Dash waved at her farmer friend.

“Oh don’t worry Applejackie.” Pinkie appeared alongside the orange mare. “They’ve already gotten really close and kinky! Dashie told us all about it! Theres not much more that they can do.” She giggled as Fluttershy hid in utter embarrassment under the wing of the cyan pegasus next to her who looked as if she wanted to deck the loudmouthed party pony.

Applejack’s jaw dropped as she whistled, “Weeeellll doggy!”

“Pinkie. I don’t need everypony knowing about my love life. I’ve got a reputation of awesomeness to keep and that won’t help it.” Rainbow Dash complained, slowly advancing upon the cheeky mare.

“As one who must upkeep a reputation of her own, I certainly concur,” Rarity said, shaking her head. “It would be best if we were not to broadcast such things.”

“Don’t y’all worry, Ah won’t tell anypony,” Applejack promised.

“OOhhh! Silly me!” Pinkie disappeared super quick with a comical swoosh.

“What is she all about?” Twilight asked, feeling completely lost again.

“Breakfast for everypony!” Pinkie yelled as she boldly re-entered with a cart bearing some breakfast dishes. Cereal, milk, eggs, toast, waffles, fruit, and pancakes.

“Oooohh! Yummy!” Fluttershy smiled brightly, feeling hungrier than she thought and emerging completely from her lover’s protection.

Dash’s tummy announced itself as she allowed herself to be herded toward the tray of food by her hungry fillyfriend.

“Hope y’all enjoy! Pinkie an’ Ah prepared it!” The proud farmer announced, trailing her fellow earth pony.

“It looks great, Applejack, Pinkie! Let’s eat!” Twilight added last before she joined in, horn aglow, ready to take her serving.

The 6 mares took a dish each, settling down, two per table. Fluttershy immediately settled down next to her mare, settling into her morning meal. Rainbow smiled broadly as the attack of warm fuzzes assaulted her system, yellow feathers brushing against light blue.

Getting a cute idea, Fluttershy took her spoon and took a small helping of fruit salad, holding it out to Dash for her to take.

Dash looked at her for a moment, a big blank look upon her face. She blinked a few times as if wordlessly asking what was going on.

Fluttershy gave a grin between the spoon she held in her teeth.

Dash’s lips formed a small “o” as realization hit her. A blushing Fluttershy slid the offending spoon into her mare’s mouth. The speedster quickly ate the offering, grinning uncertainly at the blushing pegasus.

With a sweet, loving smile, Fluttershy placed the spoon down and then leaned forward to nuzzle their noses.

Raucous laughter hit them as Pinkie Pie hit the floor, falling into a fit of giggles.

“Darling, that is the cutest display I have ever seen.” Rarity chimed in, trying to ease the tension a bit.

Dash gave a little annoyed scowl and looked away. But when Fluttershy snuggled up and lay her head on her shoulder, she found it impossible to keep the smile off her face.

“Well Fluttershy... what super cool thing would you like to do now?” Dash asked, grinning cheekily.

“Um....I don’t know, Rainbow...” Fluttershy giggled, “Is there anything you want to do?”

“How about I take my special somepony out, show you some tricks, play some games and who knows, we might even fly to Canterlot if you’re feeling bold!” Dash wrapped a forehoof around the shyly smiling mare.

“Oh my... it sounds like an adventure, then...” Fluttershy smiled.

“Yep. What better way than to have an awesome adventure with my wonderful fillyfriend!”

Fluttershy looked around shyly, wondering what her animal friends would think of her if she disappeared off on a random adventure with her marefriend. “Well...”

“Look, Fluttershy we don’t have to if you don’t want to. But I figure you’d get to see all kinds of creatures on the way there. As long as you don’t keep stopping each time you see some dumb bunny, then we could make it to Canterlot with time to spare. Pinkie Pie’s party is next week so unless you have something else on soon, I would love to go on an adventure with you. Then I can show you a little surprise.”

“A surprise?” The creamy yellow pegasus looked at Dash with curiosity.

The athlete took to the skies hovering just out of her fillyfriend’s reach. “It sure is! At least I think it will be. Anyhow. It’s going to be awesome! Come on!”

Fluttershy allowed herself to be yoinked into the air by her grinning companion. The shy mare softly stroked her companion as her partner powered along. It wasn’t like she had anything on today, or tomorrow for that matter. It might even be fun to venture out. After a few moments with the wind in her mane, she began to smile. The shy mare could feel something begin to kindle inside. An adventure might be just the thing they needed. It would allow them to build on their budding relationship and spend copious amounts of time together. ‘Yes Rainbow... I think I will go to Canterlot with you. I think I remember hearing Rarity say something about all the wonderful unique animals they have there!‘ she let out a soft squee of joy, feeling ready to fly herself to the central city in Equestria, and by her side, the best fillyfriend ever! ‘And in the city we can do the most wonderful things together... there are plenty of animals for me to see and the Wonderbolts headquarters for Dash to visit. Then when we are alone, we could snuggle... and maybe even have some private-’

“Right first stop. A nice comfy cloud! I gotta have my after breakfast nap. Care to join me Flutters?” The wonderful voice of her special somepony broke the silence, and her line of thought.

“Well, sure... but I’m not tired...” Fluttershy admitted, jiggling her head a little to clear away any potentially dirty thoughts. “But I’ll certainly lie down with you.”

“Because I’m awesome?” The bold pony couldn't help but puff out her chest.

“No,” Fluttershy cooed softly in the powerful pegasus’s ear. “Because I like to snuggle with you, Rainbow.”

“Good enough.” Dash snickered, winking.

Fluttershy continued to allow her athletic fillyfriend to fly for them both as she cuddled into the well toned mare’s embrace, relishing the peace they had together.

Rainbow Dash quickly found a cloud big enough for two pegasi and settled down upon it. She patted the spot beside her. With a giggle, Fluttershy more than happily settled down with her, laying down with her legs curled under her, nuzzling her head into the cyan mare’s neck.

“Awwwww, snuggly...” Dash gently kissed her lover gently as she stroked her mane.

Fluttershy quickly found her spot, right between the strong mare’s forehooves and she snuggled up, giving her fillyfriend a quick kiss.

“Rainbow my love...?” Whispered the enraptured yellow pony.

“Yes?” The bold pegasus asked as she softly patted her companion.

Snuggling in more to her beloved, Fluttershy closed her eyes and basked in the warm feeling, inhaling the scent of her special somepony mixed with rain and lavender, “Thankful you so much.”

“You’re most welcome, Fluttershy. But I kinda think I should be the one thanking you.” A cyan hoof ruffled the shy pony’s mane affectionately.

“Oh, Dash....” Fluttershy gave a hearty laugh, shaking her head, “No way, I should be... I especially have to thank you for agreeing to move back into the cottage... I mean, I don’t mind the solitude at all, I really don’t. But sometimes, when I thought back to when we first lived there together, I found myself missing you... a little. It'd be nice if we lived together again.”

The cyan pegasus gave her a loving lick. “Well... how else am I supposed to have my desert at night? It’s going to be awesome moving back in.”

“Your dessert? ...But you can have dessert even if we don’t live in the same house, Rainbow,” Fluttershy giggled, not quite catching on.

Rainbow Dash giggled like a naughty filly, “Oh, I’m not talking about that kind of dessert, silly.”

Fluttershy’s cheeks heated up and she hid in the spiny rainbow mane of her protector. “Rainbow Dash... You naughty pony! Don’t, please... otherwise... um... I might not allow you to make it to Canterlot...” She trailed off as she felt a sudden burst heat well up inside. Not much. But enough to start something if they weren’t careful.

The speedster licked her lips in anticipation, a grin upon her light blue muzzle. “Might want to make your threats a little less appealing there...”

“Um...” The yellow pony snuggled up as close as she could, she knew how she could get her marefriend to ease off and it was time to make her do so. “If you don’t stop... I’ll... I’ll... I don’t know... just please...” She gave the athlete an appealing look, ruffling their feathers together.

“Or what?” Dash smirked, licking her lips. “Planting the seed of a threat only makes my imagination run wild.”

“I know...” Determined, Fluttershy licked the bold mare’s cheek affectionately, “how about... if my pretty Rainbow takes me to Canterlot, we can continue to explore each other there...”

“Wow, now who’s being naughty, Flutters,” Dash smirked, licking her lips again. “But I like where this is going. Okay, a little daring adventure to Canterlot, then...”

“Then my Rainbow Dash will be all mine...” Softly cooed the pink maned pegasus. “My pretty wonderbolt...” She ran a hoof through the strong cyan wings, teasing them open.

Chuckling, Rainbow gave her a lick on the cheek, “You know I love it when you call me that, Fluttershy...”

“Yay!” She quietly cheered, “Time for my Wonderbolt's nap. I’m already making you nice and warm.”

“Yep. Nothing better than you...” Rainbow Dash let out a contented sigh of relief. She allowed her eyelids to close as she basked in the combined warmth of her partner and the early day sun.

Fluttershy lay cuddled up with her sleeping fillyfriend. Although she couldn’t sleep, it was a very comfortable position to be in. Nice and warm with the best mare in all of Equestria... she couldn't’ think of any way that things could get even better right now.

Suddenly a thought crossed her mind, ‘How long have we been lying here? My poor Angel bunny must be starving!’ She gazed back down into the face of her sleeping mare and once again found herself unwilling to leave.  ‘Oh, he can manage...he’s very smart and resourceful. I’m certain he must have gotten himself some food. But perhaps I should check really quick just to make sure... Oh, but I don’t want to leave! It’s so warm, so comfy...and what if she wakes up and finds me gone? No, it'll be okay. She'll understand.’

She slowly extracted herself from the protective grip of her loved one. She leaned down, gifting a soft kiss to the sleeping mare, planting it right on her forehead. “I’ll be back soon, Rainbow.”

She snuck over to the edge of the cloud and took wing with only a single glance back to confirm she hadn’t disturbed the sleeping speedster.

Fluttershy descended toward her cottage, finding that Angel was in his little house outside, with a carrot in his paws. When he saw her coming, he stopped short and gave her a look. Clearly, he had been hungry waiting for her, but had got carrot himself. He always preferred her to do the legwork and deliver his noms and this had left him in a rather fowl mood.

“Oh, I’m sorry, Angel.... I was preoccupied again. But don’t you worry, I promise you that I will make a much more concerted effort to still care for you and all of our animal friends! But soon we’ll have more help, since Rainbow will be living with us again!”

Rolling his eyes, Angel went back to eating his food, even going so far as to turn away from his caregiver. He knew that if the speedster moved back in, no such help would ever come. It could only lead to even longer waiting times between meals.

“Don’t worry, I’ll make sure you two get along just fine again!” Fluttershy giggled. “Anyway, I’m going to tend to the laundry before we head to Canterlot, then...” She trotted inside to fetch the laundry hamper.

The small animal gazed after his mother figure, wondering why she could possibly wish to go gallivanting off to outside lands. Deciding it must be the rainbow ponies trickery. He knew that there was no way he could steer her away from that pony, not after all these years. With a shrug he wandered off, happy enough that his caretaker was at least safe. Even if she did go, the soft pegasus was sure to be back to baby him later.

Fluttershy quickly cleaned up her room and gathered the laundry, washing everything then took it all outside to hang on the clothesline.

She hummed gently to herself as she worked, clipping a few pegs to her wings for quick access. One, or rather, two of the items were the lingerie nightgowns they’d worn the night before. She giggled, hanging them up on the clothesline as she took a moment to admire them. Oh, she would never forget how Rainbow looked in it! Maybe they could buy other types, too... The creamy yellow mare smiled at the thought. Or even have Rarity make something for them. Once they had a few they could even swap around each night for fun.

A couple of her bird friends came to help, taking both ends of a sheet in their talons and placing it over the clothesline. Fluttershy thanked them, pinning the fabric to the line with a couple of clothespins. The birds chirped sweetly, continuing to help her out by taking some of the garments from the basket, ready for her to hang.

“Okay, I should be done in a bit... thank you, my friends!” Fluttershy smiled warmly at the birds, “Hopefully I’ll make it back to the cloud before Rainbow wakes up... Hee... not that it would matter too much... we’ll have many mornings after this where we’ll wake up together. Oh, isn’t it wonderful? I never thought she would be willing to live here again... She had always wanted a place more ‘cool’...more her style....

“When she moved out, I was certainly glad for her, even if I missed having her around. We’ve lived together since, ooh, we were fairly young... It was certainly some adjusting I had to do. But I’m sure glad I had all of you for company... It’ll be wonderful for all of us to be together again! I can hardly wait!” She giggled, pinning another sheet onto the line. “Of course, it’ll take adjusting for all of us, won’t it?”

The creamy mare took a moment to rest her hooves upon the line, adding the last few garments before her planned flight back to her fillyfriend.

“Hello there, hot stuff.” Dash floated down upon a small cloud, grinning madly at the pegasus who still had her hooves propped up on the line.

Fluttershy jumped at the unexpected sight, “Oh... Rainbow. Hi... I was just getting ready to come back to you.”

“Hey don’t stop. I’m enjoying the view...” The grinning pranksters eyes slid down the pretty yellow pony’s body, cheeks heating slightly as the red globes came to rest upon their final destinations.

“O-Oh...!!” Fluttershy blushed as she realized exactly where her lover’s line of vision stopped. She almost felt self-conscious, about to cover herself with her hooves. But what good would that do? They’d already seen every inch of each other, especially last night. As the initial surprise melted away, she smiled a bit.

“Hee... oh, Rainbow... you naughty thing...”

The bold mare hopped off her cloud, slowly continuing to make her way toward the shy pony on hoof. “Well... Do you mind?”

She came to her fillyfriend who was still propped up on the clothesline and nose bumped her.  Fluttershy giggled, smiling more at her. Dash smiled in return, nose bumping her again.

“No... I-I don’t mind...” The creamy yellow pegasus said softly, her cheeks pinkening.

“Oh good.” Dash lightly kissed her on the cheek. “Just watching you do things can be awesome... especially with a little extra...”

“Rainbow, don’t be silly... You’ll get bored after five minutes and want to do something else, no matter how appealing the view is...” Fluttershy pointed out.

“Nah, I can handle it when it comes to you,” Dash flew around, coming behind Fluttershy and hugging her around her torso, nuzzling her head on her shoulder.  “You’re worth every little boring moment. Sometimes, when I think of everything we’ve done, I gotta admit, I think of the more boring moments.” She whispered into her lover’s ear, a grin upon her muzzle.

“...Really?”

“Sure! I don’t know why, but when I think of the times where nothing happened, I gotta admit, they’re nice. Easy...”

Fluttershy let out a small squeak of joy, tuned and cuddled her companion. “Oh thank you!”

Dash chuckled and nuzzled her, “No need to thank me, Flutters! I gotta make sure no pony else ever is snooping on my mare. Come on, don’t get mushy on me...”

“Too late,” the pink-maned pony giggled and kissed her muzzle.

Dash pulled away grinning, “all right... now you’ve asked for it!” She dived straight back in, planting a quick flurry of kisses all along the giggling pegasus’s muzzle.

“No... no... Dash.” Fluttershy managed in between giggles as the soft assault continued.

“Oh yes!” The bold mare laughed back, bringing a hoof around her mare’s back.

Fluttershy took flight, still giggling under the bubbly assault. “Now Rainbow... we... we both have to make it to Canterlot. I would very much like to get my date before you get too cuddly.”

“But that would ruin all the fun.”

Fluttershy continued to hang in the air out of her reach.

“Okay. How about I race you there?” Ever one for a race, Rainbow Dash couldn’t help but offer.

“B-but I can’t hope to keep up with you dear...” Fluttershy began to sink

“Trust me Fluttershy. I’ll swing round and give you a lift if you start to fall behind. But you do have wings and I need my pegasus to know how to use them.” The speedster zipped up to the same height of the floating yellow mare.

As much as Fluttershy could fly no problem, and even have a decent speed, there was that persistent underlying fear. Of being too slow for somepony so fast. Even though she was reassured time and time again, the fear still persisted her.

“...You’re right,” Fluttershy murmured, trying to keep a brave face. “And I can use them just fine, so I really don’t know what the problem is, either...” She bit her lip, but decided not to let her nerves get the better of her. “Then let’s do it. I can do this!”

“Awesome! Come on Flutters, follow me!” The rainbow-maned daredevil took off, leaving her signature trail behind her.

Fluttershy sighed. ‘What have I just got myself into?’ With less gusto than her companion showed, she flew off in loose pursuit.

As expected, while the pair flew off toward the majestic, mountainside city of Canterlot, Rainbow Dash was far up ahead, while her pink and yellow companion lagged behind in pursuit. It was almost embarrassing, to which the latter hoped nopony could see them. Regardless, she knew it would be better to try than to give up, which still did sound like a better option. But she had to remember, just had to remember, that Rainbow Dash loved her no matter what. It was pretty much the best motivation she had in all of this, which did help things along. Maybe not so much her speed, but at least it kept her in the game.

The leading mare glanced behind herself to take a peek at her loved one. Deciding that the precious yellow pony was now too far behind, Dash came round in a tight loop and rushed at her surprised fillyfriend.

It was all Fluttershy could do to get out of the way as she began falling like a surprised earth pony, screaming at the top of her lungs as she plummeted to the ground below.

Spotting the oversight in her flawed plan, Rainbow Dash swooped down and plucked her lover from the clutches of gravity. “Gotcha!”

A blush coating her cheeks, Fluttershy couldn’t help but smile and bring her hooves around Rainbow’s neck, gazing at her with adoration. It was very reminiscent of the past when they were fillies, and Dash had come down to the ground and scooped her up after her victorious Sonic Rainboom. A wonderful memory that to this day remained close to her heart.

The victorious mare continued to fly with her charge in her forehooves and a grin upon her face. Although she didn’t plan on carrying her fillyfriend all the way there, now seemed like a good time to allow the pretty pony to have a quick break.

“I hope you’re getting those wings warmed up again Fluttershy. I want to be able to cruise the next part with you.”

“R-really?” The soft voice of unbelief reached the bold pegasus’s ears.

“Yes ‘Shy. As cute as you are in my forehooves, it’s much easier for me when you fly along by yourself.” Rainbow paused for a moment to allow the words to sink in. “Plus...I might want to show off to my aerial spectator.”

“Oh... Of course,” Fluttershy smiled. “All right, you can let me go, then...I’m good to fly.”

“I didn’t say I wanted to let go of you yet...” Dash purred, nuzzling her nose.

Fluttershy giggled, “Hee...Oh, Rainbow...”

“Yes yes. Suck it up while we’re alone snuggly. The snobs in Canterlot don’t like fillyfoolers as far as I know...” Cerise eyes gazed around thoughtfully.

“That’s okay, we'll be fine as long as we're together.” Fluttershy cooed softly. “Besides... you don’t normally like being too affectionate in public. Maybe they will think we are still just friends.”

“And awesome! You can never forget the coolness Flutters. Everypony knows I’m hot stuff.” Rainbow Dash added.

“Yes...” The quiet mare fell into silence, happy to simply enjoy the feeling of her fillyfriends powerful movements as they cut through the air.

After a little while, they neared the city skyline and Rainbow Dash let Fluttershy go. The two pegasi cruised along together, enjoying the warm glow of the sun on their backs and the wind in their manes. Rainbow Dash chose to stick close to her fillyfriend as she didn’t want anything to happen to her while they were so far from home. They continued their leisurely flight together, occasionally brushing wingtips and giggling like school fillies sharing silent jokes.

They day was surely continuing to get better and better. Both ponies couldn’t wait till they arrived.

Rainbow Dash paused as she caught a dark form flying high in the sky further above them. She looked after it for a moment, but then shrugged it off. It was probably nothing to get concerned about, anyway.

Chapter Nine: Lovers Bond

Chapter Nine: Of Captives and Love

Mighty Wing, Central City.

Gilda strutted along the streets of the capital city within the Griffin Territories, known as Mighty Wing. Mighty peaked towers lined the central street on either side of Gilda, a mass of dark brooding browns and greens. Even the windows appeared to be brooding, dark and glazed as they stared out into the world beyond. Although it was a peaceful nation, it was clear that it was not a welcoming one. It was built by griffins, for griffins. Few other creatures were in sight, none of whom were ponies. As Gilda gazed around at the familiar territory, she wondered what could be causing such a fuss. Griffins were hurrying about, many on the wing. All appeared to be on a mission about something or another. Or rather, the leaders were just arguing over nothing again. That always came to be around here.

The young griffins entered her home, only to be greeted by her father’s servants. She brushed them off for the moment. She didn’t need to be tended to right now, let alone by several of his minions.

Gilda exhaled, feeling quite bitter about the events that occurred in Ponyville. She'd lost Rainbow Dash, the coolest friend anyone could ask for. What occurred was something she never expected, the very pony she found acceptable had become a dweeb. Most especially in their encounter right before she left.

Not to mention falling in love with the weakest and most pathetic pony she'd ever seen.

~Flashback~

“HEY! Where do you think you’re going, Gilda?!”

Gilda turned, facing Rainbow Dash with a deadpan look, “Listen dweeb, yeah, you’re a dweeb now, Dash, but I have no time for your stupidity. I’m getting out of here.”

“You have a lot of nerve, Gilda! I heard about what you did to Fluttershy!” Dash said angrily, her eyes narrowing dangerously. “What has she ever done to you?!”

“She’s a doormat you dweeb, she's not cool like you used to be.” The angry griffin cut back as she took up a defensive stance, ready to strike out at the pegasus who was once her friend.

“Hey, Fluttershy may have confrontation and insecurity issues, but she’s not a doormat!” Dash yelled, hovering in the air, “She’s my best friend, you know!”

“What are you going to do about it, little Rainbow Crash?” It was the first time Gilda had ever called her old friend such a name. Although it was once unthinkable to call her such things, the angry griffin now saw no reason to restrain her mean streak from lashing out.

“What is your problem?! All you’ve done since you got here was treat everypony like garbage, even right when Pinkie was nice enough to still try to reach out to you even after you made her feel like dirt....you STILL manage to mess that up!”

Brown wings flared in offense to the light blue mare's words. “My problem? They’re all lame little ponies! How can you stand to be around lowlife like that?”

Dash growled angrily, snorting through her nose, “Because they’re my friends! They’re all good ponies in this town! Fluttershy and I had to leave Cloudsdale and we came here! And I’m glad we did because it’s where we met our closest friends! They’re not low-lives!”

The nasty creature below the angry pony took off into the air, pressing her beak against Dash’s nose. “What’s that dweeb? I’m sorry... I can’t hear you above the weak cries of your pathetic friends. I’ll give you one last chance to come back with me and be cool.”

“HEY! You watch what you say about my friends! And by the way, I heard about the way you treated Fluttershy in flight school...” Dash said in a warning tone, touching down to the ground again. “YOU threatened her so she wouldn’t tell on you! How could you?! You’ve done nothing but torment her for no good reason!”

Gilda remained in the sky, feigning despair. “Oh why, how sad... the little filly needed teaching a lesson. She was checking out another filly... that was like... eww gross.” The feathered features of the airborne bully contorted with disgust. It was becoming very clear that in her world, it was not okay to be anything other than straight and cool.

The cyan Pegasus’s jaw dropped. “WHAT...did you just SAY?!!?! I dare you to repeat that!!!” Her eyes narrowed dangerously yet again.

“What? I didn’t need her looking at you like that. It would have made you soo uncool.” Gilda complained defensively, unable to step away from such a dare.

“Looking at....?” Rainbow faltered, looking surprised.

“Yea, it was fun... she stopped pretty quickly once the pain set in... it didn’t take much at all.” The bully reminisced, a giggle of past pleasure escaping as her claws stroked the back of a frightened imaginary filly.

“You.....!!!! Why I oughta....!!!! If you talk about Fluttershy like that ONE. MORE. TIME. I’m not afraid to use force!” Rainbow threatened, wings flared ready for action.

“Oh come on Dash. It’s not as if she’s important.” Gilda swooped far out of hoof range, doing her best to maintain her cool persona. She landed on a nearby cloud and gazed at her claws, seemingly dismissive of her past friend.

Dash let out a snarl of defiance, “Oh yeah?! Well you’re WRONG! Fluttershy is the most important pony in Equestria! I love her, Gilda, and nothing you or anypony says is going to change that! She’s my best friend and I would never leave my friends hanging!”

“Whatever dweeb... go run back to your little fillyfriend, she’s changed you Rainbow Dash... now you just suck.” Gilder dismissed her, slowly flying off.

“Hey! Fluttershy didn’t change anything! HEY! YOU COME BACK HERE! Don’t you fly away from me! HEY! I’M TALKING TO YOU!” The fired up mare cried out from the ground.

“Goodbye Rainbow Crash. Come see me if you ever get over that useless excuse for a flying pony.” The bully called back one last time before she began to pick up speed, ready for her long trip home.

“I DARE YOU TO COME BACK HERE AND SAY THAT!!!” Rainbow Dash was all to keen to pursue the departing griffin.

A fight was the only thing that would come from such an action and oh boy was her system calling for it! However, the one thing that kept her on the ground was her best friend, Fluttershy. As much as she hated it, Dash knew that there was little chance she could beat Gilda in a one on one fight. At least at this point in time. If she did go down and no pony saw it happen then there was no telling how long it would take for her friends to find her, for Fluttershy to find her. The thought of Fluttershy losing her forever kept her on the ground. She wanted to see her oldest friend again. Taking deep breaths to attempt to calm her rage, the pegasus lowered her wings, ever so slowly, just begging her opponent to return and start the fight.

Shaking her head at the soft display below her, Gilda muttered to herself  “You’re not worth it...” With a massive beat of her brown wings, Gilda picked up a great deal of speed. It was time to go home.

~End of Flashback~

Looking back, Gilda wondered if she could have done or said more about that. After all, Rainbow Dash, who was once awesome and cool, was actually wrapped around the hoof of a much lamer pony than even Pinkie Pie. ‘Should I have tried to save her...? Bring her back here where she could learn how to be cool again?’

“Miss Gilda, your father is in his study. Do you wish to go see him?” Asked the butler, breaking the brooding beast’s line of thought.

“Whatever...” The light brown griffin stalked on past as if the attendant wasn’t even there. As he began to scurry off she stopped. “Hey! Wait.”

The orderly immediately scurried back to his young master. “Yes?”

“Actually... I think I will see that old featherbag. Tell him I’m back and would like a quick word with him. I have his artifact.”

“Yes, Miss Gilda,” The scrawny young griffin bowed and flew off to deliver the message.

“Right... now that we have that all sorted... Off to go see-” Her musing was cut short by a voice she hadn’t heard in too long.

“Sis!” Came a voice from behind her. A smaller griffin flew ungainly over to her, a big smile on his face. “Oh my gosh, you’re back!” He landed on his rump, right in his older sister’s face.

A small, rueful smile overcame Gilda’s face. “Hey, Glen.”

“How was Ponyville? Did you see Rainbow Dash again? Was she as awesome as you always said she was? Do I get to meet her?” Glen asked eagerly, looking up at his sister with a curious smile as he bombarded her with questions, just about hopping up and down in his eagerness.

Gilda sighed, shaking her head as she patted his head with her claw. “Afraid not, little buddy. Turns out she’s just a big a dweeb as the rest of the ponyfolk. I thought she was cool when we were younger, but she went to the Dweeb Side.”

“Bummer... I always wanted to meet a pony.” The dark tawny feathered hide of the younger griffin hit the floor once more as he came to an dejected rest.

“Even so, she’s a fillyfooler, anyway,” Gilda said, shaking her head again. “And with a lamer pony, no less. I’d rather you not see that, kiddo.”

“Wait? What? How could someone awesome grow up like that?” The younger griffin was clearly perplexed. He had heard so much about the most awesome pony ever and could not believe that something had changed.

“I guess she just spent too much time with that little dweeb of hers...” Gilda deadpanned, trying not to give it too much thought.

Glen looked at his sister sadly and sighed, “That’s too bad, sis. She sounded cool.”

“I know, little bro,” Gilda ruffled her brother’s mane a bit before letting him go.

He scampered off, happy enough in his own world, despite the bad news. It left the older griffin smiling, he always somehow managed to brighten up her day...

“Miss Gilda, your father will see you now,” The youngster in question scrunched up her face. The butler certainly knew how to announce himself.

“Great.” Gilda said, brushing past him to ascend the nearby staircase, determined to not be led along like some royal fool.

Up on the second floor of the mansion, she came to her father’s study just adjacent to the master bedroom. Her father was Chief Grandeur, one of the griffin leaders, a mighty and powerful griffin...in his prime, anyway. These days, while he was old and clearly ageing, he was still far from weak. Especially in how he had come out of retirement after the assassination of one of the younger leaders.

When Gilda entered, the old griffin looked up from his paperwork before setting it down on his desk.

“Gilda dear, you’ve returned,” he said gravely, his deep bass voice filling the air. “I take it your...excursion to Ponyville was far from satisfactory, then.”

“Got that right, dad.” The much younger creature plonked her hindquaters down just inside the doorway.

“I had warned you in the past...ponies are nothing but weakness and trouble,” he said, standing from his desk. “But you take after your mother...being as headstrong and independent as always, my dear.”

“You were right, dad. I just wanted to show them what real awesomeness was, in the name of us Griffins.” Gilda said proudly, but then sighed, “I thought one of them was worth it. She was fast, cool, daring, and powerful. ...But I was wrong. She’s as weak and lame as the rest of them.”

“Well I hope you taught her a lesson... Those ponies need a strong iron beak to rule their soft lives.”

“Believe me, dad, I let them know that. I even let her know that,” Gilda said agreeably.

“Oh good. Did thou find what I asked you to retrieve?” He asked offhandedly.

Gilda dug something out of her travel bag and delivered it to her father. It was wrapped in cloth yet a hint of gold was visible where the pointy part of the artifact had punctured its soft covering. “I couldn’t find it. I kept looking as much as I could, heck, I even asked a few ponies. They were lame and kept telling me they had no idea what I meant. But this item... I nabbed off a patrol, then gave them your new orders."

A few moments passed in brooding silence. The young griffin began to wonder if her father was going to speak again, or if she should just leave.

Before she could do anything, the old councillor spoke up. “It’s their Princess... she must have more of them than I thought... Oh well. At least I know that there are a few who can follow properly.” Chief Grandeur went to look out the window, standing with his mighty wings spread, looking contemplative.

“You bet, dad,” Gilda turned to the door, ready to leave.

“By the way...should you ever consort with their kind again...I have a special task for you...my dear daughter”

“Yeah, what?”

“....Do not hold back in teaching them that very important lesson, my dear. We are superior. Always and forever.” The massive predator paused as if in thought for a few moments.

He took his time once again, after all, nothing moved until he told it to. “Although neither the council nor Celestia suspects my next move, however they may discover my true motives before we are fully ready. Our scouting party is on its way to uncovering yet another artifact and I need you to make sure my prize makes its way back here before any other creatures know it resides within the city. If they find out, council would not take the news lightly. ”

“You got it, dad.” The serious young griffin trooped out of the quiet study.

The aging griffin trooped slowly back to his desk and stood leaning against a small bookcase.

“Does m’lord require any assistance?” The butler asked, reappearing seemingly out of nowhere.

“Yes. Go away. And remember, you hear nothing.” The iron tone left little to the butler’s imagine as to what would happen to him if he were to ever speak up.

“I hear nothing.” Confirmed the obedient griffin, before backing slowly out.

The door closed, leaving only the brooding council member to his own devices. He turned to face the bookcase. A claw found what he was seeking and slowly pressed a button. With a slowly grinding, it slid back to reveal a small messy den. It was roughly hewn into the side of the room and looked almost as old as the griffin himself. From the celling of the small den hung a oil lamp and some odd spiky instruments.

The light stench of death hit Chief Grandeur’s nostrils and he stood for a moment to allow the smell to seep into his system. It made him think of war. War was good, war would purify the lands and erase all ponykind. The smell also reminded Grandeur of the lengths he had to stretch to accomplish the most important of tasks. He alone would succeed where no griffin before him had.

A grin appeared on his face as he stalked in. “Hello again. Sorry to leave you but I had guests.” A cruel claw turned the face of a battered white pegasus stallion to face the griffin Grand Master.

If looks could kill, this one would set the mighty griffin alight.

“Oh now don’t give me that face, I would hate to go round three with you.” From the tone of Grandeur’s voice, it was clear he was entertaining the thought of dishing out more pain to his captive.

Stony silence met the words of the cruel ruler. “You know, I don’t want to kill you, you know. You must be as noble as my own royal guards... for a pony anyway. Anyway... down to business. I know Celestia has one of my artifacts and I want it back. One way or another, thou will give me what I seek.”

The roughed up royal Canterlot guard kept his silence as he glared at his captor.

“Okay then. It’s on to round three. As your host, I shall be... kind... generous... and all that nonsense... Now where were we? Ahhh... yes.” Chief Grandeur took a deep breath. As much as he knew most of his fellow councilors were sure to protest against his incoming actions, they didn’t have to know a thing.

After all, what they didn’t know wouldn’t hurt them, or spoil his fun.

Canterlot, edge of the city

Two young lovers landed at their destination, Canterlot. The outskirts near the train station seemed to be a perfect pick for two ponies who wished to go unnoticed as the crowd appeared to have somewhere to go or something to do. No eyes lingered upon either mare, a fact that Fluttershy was thankful for. After all, crowded places were not really her thing. But while she felt nervous, the quiet mare felt it best that they at least make their presence known to the Royal Guard as they were Element bearers.

The pair walked side by side toward the main city and kept their wings to themselves to dissuade unwanted attention.

Rainbow Dash kept her wings to herself for other reasons too. As the fastest flyer in Equestria, she did not wish to appear a softy or uncool. As the bolder and more excited of the two, Rainbow Dash led her fillyfriend along confidently toward the palace. She paid no heed to the snobbish ponies they encountered, content to keep her ego to herself. She wondered why they had to wear such silly clothes, it wasn’t like there was a special event going on in the city. She snickered when an especially overdressed-for-Rainbow Dash-couple walked past. The stallion shot her a dirty look earning a grin in return.

Fluttershy meekly followed her best friend and lover, intrigued by the sights and intimidated by the sheer amount of ponies around her. She began to wish she was back with her animals instead of allowing herself to be dragged out into public by an attention seeking pegasus.

“All right Fluttershy. Your surprise is coming up.” Rainbow Dash declared as the pair rounded a corner to face the majestic sight of the palace.

Looking to her companion curiously, Fluttershy mulled over what it could possibly be. A beautiful sight? Most likely, what else could she have possibly been able to set up, considering neither of them had ever been there?

The bold cyan mare broke her friend’s trail of thought, “coming right up pal. I just don’t want you to go around telling everypony what we are about to do.”

“Oh... okay.” The shy pegasus wondered what kinds of trouble her fillyfriend was planing for them.

“You trust me, right?” Rainbow paused, ready for take off. “Because you’re going to love it.”

“Of course I trust you Rainbow. You just make it sound like we’re about to do something dangerous...” Fluttershy trailed off, still nervous.

“But, you’re keen to give it a go?” The eager mare asked, a hopeful grin upon her mug.

After a moments consideration Fluttershy nodded slowly. “I’ll do it, um... whatever it is.”

“Alright! Come on, I’m sure you won’t regret it!”

Fluttershy smiled shyly she she followed her fillyfriend to one of the walls of the palace. She spotted the cyan mare scanning the walls, checking for signs of guards. Happy that the coast was clear, Dash nodded to her with a smile.

“Um... Rainbow... What are we going to do?” Fluttershy asked, feeling a wave of butterflies impact with her tummy.

The bold cyan mare motioned up at the wall, still grinning like a filly about to fly into the out of bounds zone on the flight course.

“But why? Can’t we just ask nicely to be allowed in?”

“If we were coming for a boring visit I would have marched right up. But I’ve got something exciting to show you. It’s like the most awesomest pet I’ve ever heard of!”

This new piece of information caused Fluttershy to have a change of heart and her nerves and fears quickly disappeared. A pet that was cool enough to make her mare excited, must surely be an amazing specimen.

“A pet? Ooooh...what kind of pet?”

“You’ll see! C’mon, Flutters!” Rainbow Dash lifted off, offering her fillyfriend a hoof with a slight snigger.

Fluttershy accepted the offer, propelling herself carefully upwards alongside her friend. They flew along the palace walls, avoiding detection from the Royal Guards, as Rainbow searched for a specific window to view into. It took some time, even a couple circles around, as she tried to locate the one she was looking for.

“In here.” Dash motioned with her free hoof.

Fluttershy mutely nodded and allowed herself to be guided into the window. Right near it, on a perch, was majestic and beautiful phoenix. Bright fiery red feathers, yellow accents, a strong beak, wise gleaming eyes, and talons that looked both sharp and yet majestic all at once. Fluttershy was stunned. She had never seen a real phoenix outside of documented pictures in the books she’d read. Now there was a real one right in front of her, looking just as amazing as they were described and shown in images. Much like years ago, when she had laid her eyes upon real animals for the first time, she was awed and amazed. A real phoenix. The very real, majestic bird.

The awestruck mare was brought back into reality by the quiet giggling from the pegasus beside her. “Oh dear, sweet Celestia... You should have seen your face... You look so adorable...” The bold mare managed between suppressed giggles.

“Rainbow...” Fluttershy giggled back, looking embarrassed, “But how can I not be? It’s a phoenix! I-I’ve never seen one before! Oh, she’s gorgeous! Look at her!”

“I know... isn’t it awesome! I just didn’t expect such a cute filly face when you saw it.” Dash nuzzled her, filling the shy mare with a warm buzz inside.

The creamy yellow pegasus giggled, overtaken with affection and awe all at once. She was also glad they were so far up in the sky and out of sight. “Oh, Rainbow, thank you! I love it! It was wonderful of you to show her to me! Wow! Ooh...I wonder who she belongs to...”

“Awesome. Uh... don’t tell anypony, but this belongs to Princess Celestia herself. I heard Twilight talking about her and thought my cute little filly might be interested in seeing the sights.”

“Oh...I see....” Fluttershy nodded in understanding. It made sense that the Princess herself would have a majestic pet.

“Just don’t tell anypony I was sneaking around. Egghead wouldn’t like it.”

“Well I...don’t like you sneaking around, but... I understand, I won’t tell.” Fluttershy promised, with a massive delighted smile upon her muzzle.

“Thanks.” The prankster grinned then snuck a quick kiss.

“I wonder where she is, anyway...” Fluttershy wondered aloud.

“Who? The phoenix is right here silly filly.” Dash gave her a confused look.

“No Rainbow, I meant Princess Celestia. Surely she wouldn’t let her pet out of her sight for too long.”

“Uh, Fluttershy, she’s got a lot of things to do as Princess and all. I think she’d make sure her pet could handle themselves, but she’d care about them anyway. I mean, even you can’t have all your animal friends in sight every five seconds. You’d want them to be able to take care of themselves when you’re not around, right?”

The animal lover giggled, realising her mistake. “Silly me... You’re right.”

“Course I’m right!” Dash grinned. “Okay, we better go before-”

“Hello, my little ponies. It’s so good to see you again.” The majestic form of Princess Celestia came into view inside the room.

“Meep!” Fluttershy squeaked in fright and jumped into the hooves of Rainbow Dash. It was clear her wings had temporarily seized up in fright.

“Princess Celestia!?! We um... were... just here to... um...” The guilty blue pegasus glanced around trying to find an excuse for the couples seemingly random appearance.

Princess Celestia giggled, smiling at them warmly, “There is no need to be afraid, Rainbow Dash. I was coming to feed her, and I overheard your voices. Hmm, I don’t know why you couldn’t simply come to me and ask to see her. Be that as it may, I see you’ve met Philomena! Isn’t she lovely?”

“Yes! She sure is!” Fluttershy replied energetically, the timid mare found her wings once more as her delight in the new pet returned.

“Yea... She’s cool... and stuff... yeah...” Rainbow Dash confirmed, unable to offer much else in the face of the mighty princess.

The princess held out her hoof and Philomena flew and perched onto it, before Celestia nodded. The phoenix flew out the window, inspecting Fluttershy. Nervous, the yellow mare held her hoof out as well, to which Philomena gently landed to perch on it, happy.

“I see she appears to know of your kindness, especially to animals, Fluttershy.” The royal alicorn commented.

Fluttershy blushed at the compliment. “Oh...”

“It’s times like this Fluttershy that your love of animals pays off, all right! That is cool!” Rainbow Dash grinned as she took in the regal sight of her mare with the fiery bid perched upon her outstretched foreleg.

“I see that two friends appear to be more than you used to be.” Celestia smiled kindly up at them. “You have my congratulations.”

“H-H-How... did you...?”

A soft chuckle escaped the princess, “I have seen displays of affection such as yours many times, Fluttershy. I know love when I see it. After all... My sister appears to show similar symptoms.” A further laugh escaped, as if something recent had caused her mirth.

“Oh... okay.” The shy mare hovered, happily in the sky with the most remarkable creature she had ever seen perched upon her forehoof. A wonderful sensation filled her. This was amazing!

She found herself swept off her wings and into Dash’s embrace as the trickster slowly flew down to meet the alicorn.

“I do not mean to pry, of course, but I do ask simply because I’m curious, what brings the two of you to Canterlot?” Celestia asked, holding her hoof out for Philomena to return to her, which the phoenix did so.

“Well, I wanted to show Fluttershy that nifty bird you have there! And I guess for a change in scenery!” Dash declared happily, completely missing the point that she had broken into Canterlot’s palace to do so.

“I see. Does this mean that I am able to entertain two of the bearers of the Elements of Harmony for the evening then?”

“Oh n-no, we could never impose upon you, Princess!” Fluttershy replied humbly.

“Don’t be silly, you two. It would bring gladness to my heart to spend time with the two of you, if you would like.” The smiling princess lit the room with her radiant smile.

“Hey, that’d be cool! Sure! We’re in!” Rainbow Dash promptly agreed. She promptly dumped her mare at her side. In doing so, she also ceased any and all ‘snuggly’ actions. It would not do to lower her coolness rating in Canterlot, least of all around a princess.

With a massive grin upon her muzzle, the blue pegasus turned to her loved one. “This is going to be great Fluttershy! You’ll get to see more of this awesome phoenix and then we’ll get to stay in one of these massive rooms together.”

“Of course,” Celestia added, placing Philomena onto her perch. “Should you two wish to stay the night, I would be very happy to offer you a room.”

“I... I... um... all right... thank you, Princess...” The reply from the yellow pegasus was barely audible, yet caused the already bright smile to expand.

“Yes please!” Rainbow Dash cut her quieter companion off before the quiet ramble could continue.

“Splendid, then. Oh, and I had forgotten to mention, Twilight Sparkle is here as well. She came this morning to study on some subjects she had wanted to catch up on, due to not owning the books that she can find here in the palace library,” Celestia informed them.

Both mares looked at the princess in surprise then at each other. “Twilight?”

“Yes. I had my sister join her. Poor Luna is more reclusive that even Twilight used to be. And I know they are sure to get along very well.” Celestia smiled knowingly.

“Oh... I’m sorry...” Fluttershy said softly. “It’s... very nice of you to let them work together.... I... mean... well... is it all right? Do they get along?”

“If you like... we can go and find out.” Celestia gave them a kind smile before turning and starting to walk off.

“What the hay, sure! C’mon, Fluttershy! Let’s go see what this shindig is about!” Dash eagerly waved for her fillyfriend to follow.

Celestia led the way out, she briskly clopped off down the hallway. It was clear she knew the pair would be hot on her tail.

Just before the pair were about to leave, Rainbow Dash leaned in close to whisper in the yellow mare’s ear. “Imagine what we could do in a bed in this palace... it must be huge.” The cheeky cyan pegasus pulled away, she wore a grin from ear to ear. It was clear she had a few ideas in mind.

“Oh....” Fluttershy blushed and looked away. “T-that sounds...fun...” She allowed a wing to brush against her lover’s side.

Tingles raced though both pegasi as walked out of the well adorned room into the hallway.

“Of course it will be.” Giggled Dash. “I’m sure I’m not the only one with ideas too...”

Fluttershy smiled back shyly, she did in fact have a few things in mind, none of which she felt willing to share anywhere near other company.

The trio walked along the corridors in complacent silence, nothing but the sound of hooves on polished floors to announce the progress of the three mares. They quickly made their way to the grand library and Celestia motioned for them to stop outside.

“While I understand that Fluttershy will have no troubles with the rules of the library, I would like you, Rainbow Dash to please remember that this is a quiet zone. Ponies from all over Equestria are here reading and researching and will not appreciate it if somepony bothers their quiet.” Celestia addressed the couple, doing her best to ensure that they understood.

“Okay, okay, Princess... I’ll be quiet!” Dash nodded. “Don’t worry, I’ve lived with Fluttershy for years, you do get to pick upon these things!” She made the motion of zipping her lips, a cheeky smile playing lightly upon her face.

“That is good. I hope you understand, but I just had to make sure.” The snow white alicorn turned to the grand doors and upon contact with her powerful magic, they swung gently open revealing shelves upon shelves of books.

Rainbow Dash had to fight to stop her jaw from hitting the floor. The was an unbelievable amount of literature. Whats more, inside were more eggheads than she had ever clapped eyes on in her life, and they were all in one huge room together!

Although not a reader to Twilight’s level, Fluttershy couldn’t help but get lost in the amazing sight. What it would be like to spend a day in the royal library, with all kinds of books on just about everything! She wondered what animal books they would have, and couldn’t help but scan a few of the titles as they three of them walked along.

“Please... follow me.” The alicorn turned and silently paced down a side aisle.

The trio came across two mares, buried in their reading as they studied, side by side. Twilight was completely absorbed by her material while, beside her, Luna’s tail twitched with the early signs of boredom.

Although having seen her before, Rainbow and Fluttershy were amazed at the sight of Princess Luna again, especially in how more relaxed (albeit a bit bored) she looked.

Fluttershy instinctively kept to her fillyfriend’s protective side, unsure if she should be terrified or not of the old Nightmare Moon.

“Twilight, Luna? Do pardon the interruption, of course, but your friends wanted to see you.” Celestia said in a very soft voice.

Twilight looked up, and looked surprised. “Oh! Rainbow, Fluttershy? What are you girls doing here?”

Princess Luna looked up as well, studying the two pegasi, “...Ah... we have seen you two before... Elements of Loyalty and Kindness. It is our pleasure to see thy both once again.”

“We...? You guys both?” Dash questioned, pointing one hoof to Twilight and then Luna, all the while keeping herself planted solidly beside her mare.

Celestia let out a small hearty laugh, “please do excuse my sister. She still uses the old tongue.”

“It is the Royal We,” Luna elaborated, “It is customary of Canterlot Royalty to speak in this way, of course!”

“Right... Whatever...” Rainbow Dash appeared thoroughly bored already by the mild history lesson.

Fluttershy on the other hoof was clearly more interested in the strange custom.

“That’s...  um... well... very interesting, Princess Luna. I have never heard of that before.” Fluttershy admitted almost in audibly.

“Well, I could have given you the latest edition of the History of Canterlot Royalty,” Twilight mentioned dryly. “So, anyway, what are you two doing around here? I didn’t think Canterlot was really your cup of tea, especially you Dash.”

“Sure it’s not! But I wanted to show Fluttershy a change of scene!” Dash shrugged, speaking a bit louder. Catching herself, she began to whisper, “You know... to try new exciting things! New discoveries!”

Both Twilight and Luna exchanged looks and shrugged while the alicorn of the sun let out a small giggle.

Celestia quickly broke off her laughter. “I hope that you mean you came here to see my pet phoenix and other palace animals Rainbow Dash.”

“Yea... of course.” Confirmed the confident athlete. “I sure did come here to let my fillyfriend see your pet. Also I was thinking of taking a look around... you know.” ‘And maybe a few other fun antics that are only for those in the Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash club...’ She added silently to herself, feeling rather smug.

Luna looked at the couple with a fresh gaze, one that was very inquisitive.  She looked from Dash to Fluttershy and back again, then to Twilight, and her sister, before looking back at the couple once more.

“Dost thou mean that the element of kindness is thy lover?”

Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes. “Yes. She is... got a problem with that, moon brain...?”

“Rainbow! She’s just asking!” Twilight defended her. “Give her a break.”

“Thank you Twilight Sparkle. But we do not have a problem with that. It is just something we are not used to seeing.” Luna explained as she attempted to stifle a giggle at the silly name.

Fluttershy noticed and gave a small, nervous smile back as Dash continued to appear bored.

Twilight shook her head, sometimes Rainbow Dash and her names could go a bit far. At least in this case the princess didn’t appear to mind.

Trying to change the mood of the conversation, Flutterhsy piped up in the hope that she could ease the mild tension. “We understand, Princess Luna...”

“I do not know if thou does... but that is of no consequence.” The midnight alicorn replied.

Realizing her error, Fluttershy averted her gaze, “sorry...” The soft whisper was barely audible in the already quiet library.

“It’s okay, Fluttershy.” Twilight assured. “I think we all know what you meant by that.”

Rainbow Dash turned to her fellow pegasus. “How about we go for a nice flight... maybe see some more animals... then I’ll take you out for a meal.”

Fluttershy nodded. It probably would be better to leave the two to their studies after all.

“Okay... we’ll see you two eggheads later.” Rainbow Dash grinned as she turned to leave with her marefriend.

Luna burst out laughing, while Twilight did her best to not look too offended.

“Have fun then, you two,” Celestia offered kindly. “Would you like an escort, or would you rather go on your own?”

“Thanks for the offer, Princess, but that’s okay! I can protect Fluttershy from anything. We’ll be back later!” Dash grinned, leading Fluttershy out, waving at them. “See ya, Twilight!”

“Well, I didn’t expect to see them here. Please may Luna and I get back to our studies? I feel as if I am nearly there.” Twilight asked.

“Absolutely, Twilight. I should be getting back to my duties,” Celestia nodded. “Luna, I hope you’re doing well, and I will see you later.” She smiled at the two in a knowing manner before she headed to leave the library.

The two mares resumed their studies almost as if nothing had happened and Luna’s tail immediately began swishing around again. It roped the idle dark purple tail of the smaller mare, entwining with it. With the two deep night shades entwined, the princess ceased her restless action. A small grin played upon the face of royalty as she continued to read. Every now and then she would pause when she thought the other mare wan’t looking and peek up to admire her.

Chapter Ten: Those eyes

Chapter Ten: A Griffin in Canterlot

Canterlot Palace

Rainbow Dash flew slowly around the outer courtyard of the castle. Now that there was no threat from the ignorant guards below, they were able to fly happily in the open sky. It was bliss.

Fluttershy wore a wide grin upon her muzzle as she enjoyed the breeze. She flew alongside her companion in silence, with a curious mind as to what they would be doing next.

“Look Fluttershy! Something awesome’s below!” The call of the mighty cyan mare called Fluttershy’s mind to attention.

“What is it Rainbow?” Fluttershy turned her gaze down toward the the greenery below. “Oh... you think there’s some cute animals down there?”

“Well duh!” The cheeky cyan responded, flipping in the air. “Want a cool Rainbow Dash landing to greet your new pals?”

“Um... no... that’s... that’s okay... I’d... I’d rather just land on my own... I don’t want to... um...well, erm....” She tried to think of a way to put it lightly. “I don’t want to interrupt them.”

Rainbow Dash did her best to put on a sad face, but knew it looked fake due to the residual smile. “Awwww.”

“No... I... no... I don’t mean it that way.” Fluttershy bit her lip.  “...All right... we can do that. But please do it quietly?”

“Na... It’s okay, you can pay me back for it later if you like.” The speedster grinned, knowing her partner had misinterpreted her.

“But...”

“And I said we can roll with your plan. Come on.” insisted Rainbow Dash, not about to allow her marefriend to back down.

Fluttershy exhaled, why did she keep ending up offending or disappointing everypony at the worst possible time? And yet Dash didn’t seem to mind that she was being a bad marefriend. She just nodded and mutely headed down toward the ground level of the palace garden, trying to keep her mind off everything and hoped that seeing all the plants and animals together would be nice enough to lift her spirits.

Rainbow Dash stayed in the air while her animal lover landed. “You go... I’ll just scare them with my awesomeness.”

In truth, Dash knew that her presence would be best spent down below. She knew she could enjoy herself around the cute critters and the skill her shy mare showed always instilled a buzz inside. Rainbow Dash knew she could never possess such patience and peace of mind. She also knew why her wings were yet to carry her off into the wide open sky. Her eyes were still set on the flank of the mare of her affections and she really didn’t mind. Fluttershy had a hot flank and as her fillyfriend, Rainbow Dash figured she had all the right in Equestria to spend as long as she liked admiring it, even from afar. A silly grin settled on her face and she knew it was time to fly off before certain thoughts took over and her wings stiffened too much to maintain flight.

‘Imagine that... the great Rainbow Dash, killed by wingboner...’ She shook her head, yep, it was definitely time to go. Such a fall would be totally uncool. ...Yet hilarious in all the wrong ways. Her eyes traveled up the well groomed coat of her lover to meet her stunning aquamarine eyes.

Fluttershy looked back up at the pegasus above. She realized that her special somepony hadn’t even wished to share the moment with her in the first place. While it did make her feel sad, she found it easy enough to accept that they both did still have their differences and this would allow them a bit of time away from each other. At least the animals should cheer her up. She’d done this a thousand times before on her own; it was no big issue. It was just her first time in Canterlot Gardens and she had imagined that she would be able to share it with the pony who mattered the most to her. ‘Oh well... maybe some other time... I hope I can get her to come down one day with me. She really doesn’t know what she is missing out on.’

“Hello...” She greeted a couple of bunnies, albeit a bit nervously. “I hope you’re all doing well. I’m Fluttershy... I hope we can get along...”

The bunnies sniffed her curiously, before they smiled. It was easy for the little critters to tell, this new pony was kind. A squirrel came scampering over, while a few robins landed on the branches of a tree above, watching the scene.

Fluttershy smiled, glad to see that they warmed up to her so easily. Things weren’t always straightforward when it came to new animal friends, but it also was far from difficult. Since she came from a whole different area than they, she had a feeling it would take a little bit more coaxing than usual.

“Well, everyone, I'll be here for a bit, so why don't we get to know each other?” With a yellow hoof, she beckoned for more creatures to join her.

Later on, Rainbow Dash joined Fluttershy down on the ground. Considering that she had nothing better to do after failing to find the Wonderbolts HQ, she decided to partake with some animal interaction. However, upon her descent, the animals all fled in fright. ‘What a shock.’ She thought to herself as she glanced around.

As silence fell upon the couple, Rainbow Dash continued to examine the area curiously. “Say... where are all those animals, anyway?”

Fluttershy, not looking up, just pointed toward some bushes. She then trotted over to said bushes, and whispered to the animals that they had nothing to fear. At her bidding, quite a variety of creatures came out to greet her and the new cyan pony.

Rainbow Dash kept as quiet as she could manage as her fillyfriend introduced her to all the animals. Not knowing what else to do, she stood there, gazing down at the little creatures with a mixture of boredom and wonder.

The next hour passed quickly for Fluttershy who quickly found herself in a blissful state; here she was, with the pony she loved, in the most beautiful guardian she had ever seen.

Two young lovers strolled through the streets of Canterlot. To all the world, they appeared as friends, happy to walk in each others company through the well kept roads. The posh ponies they passed paid no heed to the two lower class strangers. The occasional mare or stallion would recognize the two element bearers and greet them, but they were otherwise left alone.

The bold mare paused her stride. “So Flutters, where do you want to go? It’s on me!” Rainbow Dash waved her left forehoof to indicate the various venues up ahead.

“What? But, Rainbow! It’s...these places are all out of our price ranges! I’ll pay for us....” The shy mare was shocked that her mare wanted to go to such a high and lofty eatery.

“Don’t worry girl! It’s my shout. I’m the big shot and if anypony is going to play gentlecolt, it’s me.” The cyan mare wore a charismatic grin, there was no way she was about to allow her fillyfriend to play the role of colt in their relationship, especially in public.

“But... you don’t need to pay for dinner to be one, Dashie... and I don’t want a gentlecolt... I want my Rainbow.” The buttery mare giggled softly.

Fluttershy’s gaze came to rest upon the furthest building. It appeared to be a restaurant more akin to the ones in Ponyville than a large well endowed city like Canterlot. The finely crafted outer stone wall was embellished by a sign, ‘The Pink Pegasus.’ This was a simple hoof carved sign in the shape of a pegasus mare in flight.

“How about that one Rainbow?” Fluttershy pointed toward her choice.

A delighted grin lit the cyan mare’s face. “Sweet! See... it wasn’t that hard.” She nudged her companion and took off toward her goal.

Fluttershy smiled sweetly at her lover. She allowed herself to admire the curves of that cyan flank, the swish, swish of colorful tail as Rainbow Dash ambled up to their destination, happy to lead the way. A light blush covered her muzzle as the mare of her dreams met her gaze. A smirk covered Rainbow’s muzzle and she poked out her tongue, happy to tease. Fluttershy blushed more. She had been caught.

The shy mare trotted to Rainbow Dash’s side, suddenly eager to exit the streets of Canterlot.

“I was tempted to give you a wiggle there Flutters...”

That was not what Fluttershy wished to be met with. Her muzzle heated up a little more.

“Rainbow...stop.” The buttery pegasus pouted, she felt oh-so-ready to find a table and get on with their good meal. “We are in public.”

“What? We’ve been discreet so far. See... no pony is even looking.”

The still flushed mare glanced behind her at the ponies on the road behind them. None paid the two ‘friends’ any heed. “See... we’re just two friends having fun in the big city.”

“That’s good.” The shy mare mumbled. “Just... please don’t be too cheeky, I don’t want anything bad to happen.”

Fluttershy took a final glance around at the other’s on the street. The passing ponies were still too busy with their lives to notice anypony else. With a deep breath for courage, the shy pegasus took the lead and headed right for the table in the far corner. The obedient silence told her that her partner had heard her.

As she seated herself, Fluttershy felt herself grow a little bolder.

The bold blue mare sat herself down beside the shy one and they shared a comfortable silence. Dash glanced around and did her best to look awesome and cool in the hope that they could get served faster. She was hungry after mucking about in the sky and was confident that they could get served quickly. The bold cyan pegasus waved a hoof at a light pink pegasus attendant who was flittering between tables tending to guests and congratulated herself for her own efforts when the mare noticed them.

“Rainbow Dash...” Fluttershy nudged her lover, “we can wait. If she’s busy serving other ponies, let them go first.”

“Nonsense. I’m more important. Plus there’s gotta be other staff here to serve those other ponies.” Replied Dash as she settled back, awaiting the arrival of their attendant.

The young light pink pegasus, with a single white blossom stuck into her braided snow-white and blue mane approached. She seemed warm and pleasant.

“Hello, fillies! Welcome to the Pink Pegasus. What can I get you two cuties for lunch?” A light cheeky grin crept across her face as pulled out a notepad, ready to take their order. “Can I get you two a drink to start off?”

“Um... I’ll have water, please...” The shy pegasus trailed off, smiling appreciatively.

“Cider for me!” Added a grinning Rainbow Dash.

The hostess giggled, nodding as she scrawled it down on her notepad, “Sounds good, coming right up. You two get comfy, but... not too comfy. I’ll be back soon.” She winked cheekily at the pair before she trotted off to retrieve their order.

“There, you see? Easy.” Dash lay back against the soft U shaped couch.

Fluttershy followed suit, allowing herself to sink toward her lover as the contours brought the pair of lovebirds together in bliss. They allowed the chatter of the busy restaurant to wash over them. Rainbow Dash wrapped a hoof around her mare’s shoulder and allowed herself to relax, her eyes closing and her breaths slowing.

Before the lazy pegasus could drift off, light clopping of hooves alerted her and she opened her eyes. The light pink hostess had returned with their drinks on a tray. She set them on the table and gave them their glasses. A careful glance was given to Fluttershy as she continued to rest happily upon her lover’s shoulder. “And what would you like for your main?” The pink pegasus trailed off, suddenly shy.

“Um....well....” Fluttershy looked at the menu. “I...I don’t know....I don’t want to spend too much....but it all looks yummy...”

“Fluttershy... don’t worry about how many bits it all costs. I’ve got it covered.” A light blue hoof rubbed for a moment on the light yellow one for encouragement.

“But Rainbow...”

“Never mind that, what do you want?”

“Um... I want... the vegetable goulash...”

“Awesome. I’ll have a veggie sandwich please.” Rainbow promptly added. She bumped a hoof against her fillyfriend’s shoulder with a grin upon her muzzle.

Fluttershy smiled appreciatively and settled back against her mare’s side. It felt good to rest against the warmth of the one she loved. It filled her system, causing a wonderful bubbly sensation to fill her for a moment.

“Are you two cuties together?” A giggle escaped the pink pegasus who stood at the edge of the table, notepad still in one hoof.

Rainbow Dash shot upright in surprise. “No.”

Fluttershy found herself awkwardly pinned between the strong blue back of her fillyfriend and the couch. A small ‘eep’ escaped her and she fought to sit back upright.

“Well... maybe.” Dash glanced guiltily down at the pretty yellow pegasus as she assisted her.

“We... we are. I-if that’s okay with you.” Fluttershy added, almost inaudibly.

“It’s fine, don’t you worry. Just good to know I’m not the only mare in this city who is like yourselves.” The pink mare’s voice was almost a whisper at this point and she glanced around to make sure nopony else had heard.

“Oh... Well what is it with everypony here then? If it’s so bad, why not just move out?” Dash asked, a hint of annoyance entering her voice.

“I can’t. You see... I kinda own this place and it’s... nice. Most of the time. I make enough to be comfortable by myself.” The pink pegasus replied, still clearly nervous.

“W-well, what’s your name...? I-if you don’t mind me asking.” Fluttershy piped up.

“Me... Oh, I’m just a nopony. Working my own place, nice and quiet... Name’s Snowflake if you must know though... Anyway... I’m off.” With a swish of her snowy blue tail, Snowflake turned and trotted off toward the kitchen.

In the absence of any reason to talk, two young lovers settled down to wait patiently, sounds of kitchenware and ponies busy with their meals filled the air.

Without warning, a cyan head popped out of the corner and checked out the rest of the spacious restaurant. Pink eyes scanned the uninteresting crowd of ponies. It was good to see that no attention was being paid toward her. This banished Rainbow Dash’s nerves and helped her relax. With a satisfied smile upon her muzzle, she slipped back into position beside her mare and even allowed a smug smile to take over her muzzle as she slid a wing around her fillyfriend’s back.

Peaceful moments of togetherness passed. It left both mares feeling warm and happy enough in the welcoming restaurant. The lack of notice was nice, but there was something missing. Fluttershy could feel it. The shy mare made the decision to break the atmosphere between them. She waited for the last of a small group to pass them by before she slipped in a loving lick to her mare’s muzzle.

Before the light yellow mare could pull away, Rainbow Dash turned and added a kiss to the mix. Although she could feel the world recede from them ever so slightly, it didn’t matter. She licked the blushing pegasus on the muzzle with love, happy to return the previous gesture.

Fluttershy giggled, her smile growing. “Oh, Rainbow...” She snuggled up against the strong blue pegasus at her side, nuzzling her muzzle to muzzle.

“I know... it was too much. Now stop it before we get caught.” The polychromatic pegasus cautioned. Her wing receded to her own side as she pushed her lover aside, eager to break the sappy atmosphere before it became too uncool for public.

“Please? No pony is looking.” Fluttershy did her best cute puppy dog eyes, gazing into the depths of two stunning red orbs.

“You like twisting my wing? Do you?” asked Rainbow Dash, a hint of annoyance in her voice.

“N-no. Of course not.” Confirmed Fluttershy. “But I would like to cuddle, maybe even just a little, like we were doing.”

“No... come on. We probably should act normal again. I don’t need someponoy seeing us. That would kill my image.” Defended the bold speedster.

“Is that what you are more interested in? Your image? ...Not me?” The yellow pegasus asked as she pulled away, her mate’s words hurt, even though she knew it was probably just the speedster’s ego talking.

“...Aw, come on. Don’t be like that. You know I have an image of cool to protect. How else am I supposed to get into the Wonderbolts?”

“By being yourself.” Fluttershy’s answer was almost a whisper at this point and she turned away to gaze across at all the normal couples who were happily sharing lunch together.

“Yea? Well you know me, and I’m always cool. I know you’re special Fluttershy, but save it. I’ve had enough snuggly, sappy stuff for now.”

“Okay...” Fluttershy let out a defeated sigh and leaned harder into the soft blue velvet seat.

A few painful moments passed for Dash as she fought with herself inside. She tore her eyes away from the pitiful pegasus beside her and concentrated on downing her cider.

The sweet mixture washed through her, refreshing and delicious. She finished her cup all too soon and set it down with a small clank. Her eyes wandered the slack wings of her beautiful fillyfriend and she couldn’t help but give in.

“Fine. Come here.”

As soon as those words escaped, a delighted Fluttershy turned around to offer a nuzzle. A squee escaped her as she cuddled up a little to her special somepony. Joy welled up inside the shy mare. Not only was she allowed to do a little bit more snuggling, but had once again proved that she could win over her fillyfriend whenever she really needed to.

“You’re allowed one kiss.” Dash whispered as her side tingled pleasurably at the touch of her soft lover.

As thanks, Fluttershy lent up and kissed her lover right on the lips, holding for only a moment before parting.

A big, sweet grin overcame the shy pony’s face as she remembered the first time they had kissed, so long ago in their fillyhood. She brought Rainbow Dash closer and whispered, “you have always been the best kisser I've ever known.”

“Fluttershy... I’m the only pony you have ever locked lips with! I made sure of that... a long time ago...” The cheeky mare grinned back, mischief written all across her cocky muzzle.

Fluttershy gazed into the wonderful eyes of her companion, a question forming on her lips, mirrored on her face. “Y-you made sure? B-but the only time I ever tried to kiss somepony else was that time I tried to date a colt. He was trying to kiss me, but... but I couldn't go through with it.”

“That was fun to sabotage... He was awesome to prank.” Giggled the culprit of the long ago incident.

“...That was you?” Fluttershy’s jaw dropped.

“Well duh. I couldn’t just let my best friend kiss some idiot who clearly didn't like you for who you were.” Rainbow Dash playfully nudged her stunned companion.

“O-Oh....” Fluttershy giggled.

A few moments of silence passed as the pair mulled over the past. Fluttershy fought a mental battle with herself for a few moments as another memory surfaced from later in their fillyhood. “....Well I....um...have a confession to make, too...”

“And what might that be?”

“Do you remember that one filly, Blazing Comet, who was trying to ask you out? Well... um... when I overheard her saying that... I-I... went and told her, you and I were dating so she would leave you alone.” Fluttershy confessed, turning pink.

“Oh, how could I forget that...” Giggled the cyan pegasus. “Wait... you did what?” Dash gazed at her fillyfriend, surprised.

“Yes...I...oh, I was so jealous! She was much better-looking and so interesting and fast and daring like you...I was being selfish and trying to keep her away from you! ...I’m sorry...” Fluttershy looked down at her hooves in shame. “I did it because I was so jealous... even though she was a very nice pony and I knew would treat you right.”

“It’s okay. I heard she wound up happy with her old friend Moon Dancer from Canterlot.” Dash mused, offering a nuzzle for support.

“But... but you could have missed out! And I had no right to do that since I was too chicken to tell you how I felt! I had no ownership over you! ...I lied about our relationship and then I was terrified you would find out and...and...and...” Fluttershy a near inaudible sob escaped the buttery pegasus.

“Come on, Flutters. I’m so happy you did that! She was maybe too much like me anyway. I need somepony like you to hold me down from time to time.” The cheeky prankster giggled at the double meaning of her last part.

Looking up, Fluttershy wiped her eyes, “...You really mean it? ...Oh, why am I asking... I don’t think you’d be with me if you didn’t feel that way.” She trailed off, her voice nearly a whisper.

“Well duh... Besides, you’re the only pony I’ve ever had some seriously naughty thoughts about.” The light blue pegasus chucked, ruffling her companions feathers with her own wing, sending jolts through both their bodies. “I know you know what I mean.”

“....I suppose...” The creamy yellow pegasus giggled a bit, a faint blush appearing on her muzzle. “Um....just...how did you manage that prank, Rainbow?”

“That’s for me to know. I am the master of pranks after all.” Dash boasted. “You were my friend and special to me. It just took awhile for me to see that ‘special’ meant this...” Rainbow Dash trailed off, motioning between them.

A few comfortable moments passed with both ponies going for a walk down memory lane.

The sound of hoofsteps caused them both to glance up at the incoming pony. “Sorry this took so long you two.” Snowflake slipped their selected dishes from her back onto the table with her wings.

“O-Oh... no problem... we hope nopony felt rushed... after all, Rainbow Dash here was a little bit... pushy.” Fluttershy mumbled, twiddling her hooves nervously.

The server laughed softly. “Oh no. Don’t you worry about that. Enjoy.”

“Thanks! That’s real swell Snowflake!” Dash grinned, eyeing her plate with a hungry tummy to call her onwards.

“Sweet as you two. I’ll be just over there if you need anything else. Or you can holler! Just don’t make a mess.” Snowflake winked and walked off again.

“Wow... She’s really quite a nice mare, isn’t she?” Fluttershy confided to her partner, softly, as if being afraid of getting caught talking about the waitress.

“Are you kidding? She probably the most normal pony in this entire Snobville, all right!” Dash laughed, ruffling the timid pegasus’s mane. “Now come on! Let’s eat!” She immediately went to work on devouring her meal. Slower than usual, but still with her usual vigor.

Fluttershy joined in the giggle. “Okay Rainbow.”

The meal was delicious and disappeared all too quickly for the speedster to feel like she could fully enjoy its delights.

As soon as the pair had finished, Snowflake reappeared. “Thank you girls. I’ll take it from here.”

“Sweet!” Rainbow leapt up, ready to leave.

“Thank you, Snowflake...” Fluttershy reached for her money bag, intending to pay at least part of the bill, only to be stopped by a blue hoof.

“I told you Fluttershy. It’s my shout. So, let the gentlemare pay.”

“Oh come on...” Fluttershy pouted. “...Okay....”

“That’s my filly.” Grinned the happy polychromatic pegasus.

Dash turned to the smiling serving pony and held out the bits. “Here you go miss.”

“Wonderful, you two,” The snowy pink pegasus accepted the bits, giving Rainbow the change, “Now you two have fun out there.”

“We will, thanks.” Dash called as she walked off, ready to continue their awesome day together.

“T-thank you.” Fluttershy quietly murmured as she followed her lover out.

Rainbow Dash kept a keen eye on their surroundings, making sure nopony paid them any heed. The cocky pegasus couldn’t help but notice, the population of the city consisted almost entirely of unicorns. Snobtastic, to add to that.

But as they went along, Dash spotted an unusual sight that made her blood run cold. She was confused, suspicious, and even had a slight tinge of anger upon the sight that she saw.

A griffin.

A griffin was actually walking the streets of the city, stopping many of the ponies he passed. Each pony he stopped, would receive some sort of parchment thrust in their faces as he asked them questions. The ponies would shake their heads and he would continue onward. Rainbow wasn’t sure why a griffin was in Canterlot, but she didn’t like this one bit.

He was a well built specimen, a young muscular griffin who wore trimming on his shoulder plates and tough leather armor to cover the rest of his hide. He looked like he had traveled a great distance, yet bore no sign to indicate that he wished to say long in the pony city. This young scout looked like trouble. His smouldering anger caused several ponies to retreat as he struck one well dressed stallion for offering the wrong reply.

“Fluttershy. Stay behind me.” Rainbow broke the quiet between the two otherwise content pegasi.

“W-what?”

“Please, just do it.” At the tone of Dash’s voice, Fluttershy complied, slowly moving to a protected position behind her fillyfriend.

The griffin spotted them as he walked along, and strode over to where they were. He could see something was different with the pair, they lacked the posh exterior of the others he had encountered. Maybe he could get answers at last. Even though Dash glared with defiance, he continued, undeterred.

“Excuse me, ponies,” the scout said, as if the reference to their species was poisonous. “But I am here on official business as ordered by Chief Grandeur. We seek a relic that belongs to the griffins. It is of utmost importance that we find the location of it and retrieve it.” He held up the paper in a foreclaw for the couple to see.

Rainbow Dash felt her breath catch. She recognised that rough scrawl.

It was Gilda’s writing.

At the memory of her ex-friend, she recalled how poorly her friends had been treated by the self centered creature. “I know that hoofwriting. Why are you working with that flankhole Gilda?”

This caused the big griffin to stifle a laugh. “Not with, for. She is the esteemed daughter of Chief Grandeur and you shal show her the respect she deserves.” He stepped forward aggressively.

Fluttershy gulped and spoke up nervously. “Um... we didn’t mean any offense kind sir.”

“Really?” Captain Volibeak laughed. “I rather think your friend here did.” He turned back to face the polychromatic pegasus once more with an aggressive sneer.

Rainbow Dash didn’t like the stranger at all and decided to make her dislike known. “Whatever big beak. Beat it or I’ll break your ugly face.”

The griffin sighed, he gazed at the pair as if they were two flies he wanted to swat away. “Express insolence all you like, but you haven’t answered my question. Now take a look at this very carefully...” He pushed the notice into the rainbow pony’s face to ensure she got the best close-up possible.

“We don’t know anything about what the hay you’re looking for! And frankly, I’m not sure I like the way you are treating us!” Rainbow snarled, her wings extending as if to prepare for action. She pulled away from the document that had been thrust into her face to stare daggers at the offender.

“Honestly, you ponies are all the same. Do you address your...princess with such insolence? I should hope she would not tolerate such rude and uncouth behavior,” the griffin rolled his eyes.

“HA! That’s where you’re wrong, bucko! We’re actually in cahoots with Princess Celestia! So if you’ve got a problem with us, then that’s not her problem! It’s yours!” Dash shot back.

“I don’t have time for your nonsense, pony. I have official business to take care of with your princess.” The arrogant chestnut brown griffin waved a clawed foot, deadly sharp claws shone in the daylight with menace.

As much as Fluttershy wanted to step in and offer a peaceful solution, all she could do was cower and hope that he would leave before any violence broke out.

“If you’re here on official business, go see the princess. She will happily kick your scrawny hide back to wherever you have come from.” The bold pony continued her onslaught.

“Why she has not dealt with filthy, horrendous fillyfoolers such as yourselves, I will never understand. Most especially that weak, pathetic excuse for a flying creature behind you. Hiding there like the little coward I see she is.” The griffin scout muttered as he turned to leave to continue his interrogation of the Canterlot population.

Rainbow Dash went livid. She hoofed at the ground, snorting through her nostrils with an angered glare. “What...did...you...just...SAY?!”

Turning, the griffin scout smirked with triumph. Smug and amused, “Oh, I’m sorry. Did I strike a nerve? It seems that I have. Well, not that it matters, though I must say that you ponies getting angry is quite entertaining. You have nothing on griffins, not even you so-called powerful battlefield oriented pegasi. And that pathetic creature behind you, I cannot believe you would call that a pegasus. It’s shameful to think.”

“LISTEN YOU....don’t you EVER talk about my fillyfriend like that! Oh, you can insult me all you want! Go ahead! There’s nothing I can’t take! But you do NOT mess with Fluttershy! Otherwise, you’re going through me!” Rainbow growled in pure anger, crouching low on the ground. “I dare you to insult her again, you jerk! Go on! I dare you! One more time...and believe me, you won’t like me when I’m angry!”

The muscular griffin stepped forward, muscles rippling with raw power. “This is going to be good. I haven’t had a fight with a fillyfooler before. I wonder what that ugly yellow mare behind you tastes like?”

“Get away from her!” Yelled Dash, hovering in the air now, “Fluttershy, get out of here, now! Go find Twilight, the Princesses! Get going!”

“N-no... Rainbow... I-I could never leave you!” Fluttershy began to retreat, feeling her wings lock up even more under the weight of her fear.

“I said go, Fluttershy! I’m not letting you get hurt!” Rainbow yelled, tears in her eyes. “Now! Move it!”

The griffin chose this moment to butt in as he advanced on the pair, he gazed at Fluttershy as if she were but a meal laid out for his pleasure. “You know... my lord, Chief Grandeur told me I was special, once he even allowed me taste pony, something my kind rarely have the courage to do. It was one he himself had captured for questioning. I happen to know from experience that pegasi’s wings are especially tasty... they also make good adornments for my armor too.” The predator continued stalking toward the petrified pegasus who cowered on the ground before him, licking his chops as he went.

Dash swooped in from the side, striking him in the face with her hoof while he was intent upon his prey, Fluttershy. Growling, the griffin turned his attention to the cyan pegasus, picking himself up in the air as well with his mighty wings.

“You’re going to regret this.” He announced before swooping toward her.

Rainbow flew toward him, leaving her signature trail behind her. She gritted her teeth, a full meal before a fight was not going to work in her favor. But she had to defend her fillyfriend, regardless of any consequences. Besides, if she could take Gilda, she could take this ruffian. When the griffin lunged toward her, claws ready to sink into soft flesh, the athletic pegasus immediately dodged with a burst of speed, pulling up behind him and landing a swift kick to his back with her hind leg.

An ear-splitting screech rent the air as the mighty griffin rounded on his attacker, massive wings flaring in glorious preparation for his next attack. There was one thing he saw, this pesky pegasus that required extermination. And it was going to be fun.

Shouts rang out as citizens panicked and ran. An authoritative voice rang out across the street. “Stop at once!”

“Ohhh... canned food.” The griffin scout turned to face the pegasus guard. “Do you want a piece of me too?”

“No. But if you touch either of those ponies I will be forced to stop you.” The guard replied in a resolute tone.

Borne aloft by his big, powerful wings, volibeak paused to consider his situation. Although he had been ordered to avoid contact with guards at all costs, the polychromatic pegasus in front of him needed to be taught a lesson. He had also lost out on all the fun in his last mission when Gilda had taken the artifact from his claws and ordered his patrol on another mission chasing rumors and myth.

“Let me just have my fun, then I’ll be on my way. I promise.” The cruel creature grinned as he prepared to launch himself at the bold pegasus who continued to stare him down.

Rainbow hovered above a set of houses, the gazes of the few nearby ponies who had not fled were fixated upon the scene above as she took off once again, looping round and round the larger flying creature. The smaller flyer rained blows upon the powerful griffin’s back causing him to emit a further earsplitting screech of rage. The pair exchanged a series of quick attacks which both sides easily dodged. They looped around each other swiping with hoof and claw, narrowly missing buildings as they fought. Each side tried desperately to gain an advantage over the other.

Anything. Anything at all that could lead to victory.

Rainbow Dash knew that speed was the key. It always was. It was something she could do well. With an added spurt she powered around corner after corner before she looped around and plowed into the pursuing griffin’s side.

However things were not set to go to plan and the blow caused her to spiral out of control and crash into a nearby rooftop.

Shouts reached her ears as more and more guards arrived in the vicinity to ward off the aggressive griffin. That was good. It meant all she had to do was keep him away from Fluttershy for a few more moments. Then they would both be safe.

The griffin scout held a cocky grin upon his beak, he knew he could finish the lone mare off before anypony would dare break up his fight. He was assured victory and he knew it. He swooped down toward the roof, ready to latch onto his prey.

Cerise eyes carefully watched the incoming attack. As the talons extended, Rainbow Dash thrust herself up, her wings took over and she propelled herself into the sky. Claws raked her back as she evaded the deadlock. A rainbow trail shot into the clouds before it plummeted back toward Canterlot below, a determined look wrote itself all across the speedster’s features. Losing was not an option!

The loud wingbeats of the pursuing griffin grew in volume with each passing second and Dash forced her wings into overdrive. The two airborne fighters zipped through the panicking crowd, a gathering number of guards in hot pursuit. Just before Rainbow Dash was about to collide with a solid looking building, she veered off to the side, rapidly rewarded by a loud smack as the birdbrain behind her smashed into it.

The bold pegasus panted as she grinned back at her adversary, time to bring more pain, he was going to pay for his words toward Fluttershy!

She zoomed down toward the downed griffin. A nasty grin covered the scout’s mug. With a mighty thrust of his legs he propelled himself upwards into the earthbound pony, knocking her out of the air. He let out a deafening screech, a call to arms for those under his command.

Stunned, Rainbow Dash fell to the hard road below. Determined, but stunned she pulled herself up once more, unwilling to give up. As soon as her struggle to her hooves was over, she was airborne in under a second and ready to meet her fellow flyer.

Several guards flew to her side, ready to aid her in the conflict. “Back down miss, we can take it from here.” Advised one of the armoured pegasi.

Before Dash could obey, the mighty beast was in her face, he had dived right for her. As she pulled out of the way, her opponent grinned and span off to the side to meet her. The harsh beak collided with the soft blue coat. An instant later a claw wrapped around Dash’s forehoof and she quickly found herself pinned to the pavement, dazed from the impact and unable to respond in any way.

The griffin buried his claws into her back and raked downwards, roughly, drawing blood. Before the cyan pegasus could react, a swift punch was delivered to her face, almost knocking her for a loop. A kick to her stomach knocked the wind out of her, along with any fight that may have been left in the once proud pegasus.

Several spears impacted with the griffin captain’s hide and he let out a shriek of pain. He took off into the sky once more, prey held firmly by the neck in a foreclaw.

Held firmly in the talons of Captain Volibeak, Rainbow’s world swirled around her in a sea of meaningless garbage. Black spots appeared in her vision. She needed air, and soon! The blackness filled her rapidly as her system begged for oxygen. Just one breath, just a whiff of her lover. Anything!

She had failed her Fluttershy - her one true love - and now the both of them were about to pay for it with their lives. Her wings cracked softly as she was scraped across a rooftop, guards in hot pursuit of the fleeing griffin. Dash screamed in pain. All remaining sense of vision disappeared beneath the crushing torrent of pain as her precious connection with her wings and lower body disappeared. Try as she might, he was far too strong for her. His deathlock on her neck continued to drain the life out of her system as every inch of her body begged for air.

She had no idea where she was anymore and no clue where her true love was. It was over.

She would never get to see her Fluttershy or any of her friends ever again.

She would never get to show off her awesome moves or invent new ones.

Her life was over, just when it felt like it was truly beginning.

Before she passed out, Rainbow Dash felt the deathlock on her windpipe cease. The faintest sensation of a downdraft told her fading mind that her attacker had taken off without her for some reason. Maybe the guards had finally chased the evil griffin away. Maybe her Fluttershy might find her, save her before her body failed. However, in her world of pain, all Dash could do was lie there and accept her fate.

The last thought to cross her mind before darkness claimed her and she succumbed to her wounds and lack of oxygen was of Fluttershy. Dash even thought she heard her mare cry her name from afar.

But that was probably just her failing mind playing tricks on her.

Fluttershy....

Chapter Thirteen: A New Adventure

Chapter Thirteen: Quiet Before the Storm

Canterlot Palace

Twilight sat in the dining hall with her friends and Princess Luna while they all settled down to have breakfast. Even with a mild loss of appetite, Twilight knew she had to eat, especially since Luna gently encouraged her to do so. The past twenty-four hours had certainly been an emotional roller coaster she had not expected, not to mention the fact that she could do so little about any of what was happening around her. It was at times like this that she realized that when somepony had so little control over a situation, it could be terrifying. The fear of the unknown was already bad enough, but facing such uncertain future only further added to the anxiety of the entire matter.

In all her life, Twilight had never truly faced this kind of thing. Not with her family, not with the Princess, and not with Spike. Sure, there’d been little bouts of worrying when either would be sick, but that was it. Nothing drastic nor life-threatening had ever come about. Even the debacle against Nightmare Moon had nothing on this. There was a very scary possibility that Rainbow Dash would not survive. There was a chance that they would all lose a dear friend due to cruel circumstances.

Sighing, the unicorn turned over to a contemplative Luna, who also ate at her breakfast slowly and silently.

“Is there really nothing more you and Princess Celestia can do?” Twilight asked softly.

Luna shook her head. “I am afraid not, Twilight Sparkle. I nor my sister possess the kind of healing mastery required to tend to such a wounded pony. Thy friend Rainbow Dash was quite lucky in that she was still alive when brought in. Our doctors are the best and have been able to do a truly amazing job so far. However, dead is dead, Twilight. No sort of magic or spell can ever change that. Even my magic can not bring a pony back.”

Twilight cringed; the mention of death was a topic she would rather avoid at the moment due to her friends situation. However the topic of such magic perked the young scholar's interest. “Is there... really no way?”

“Well...” The Princess of the Night exhaled, looking to her seriously, “It is not something we encourage. Life and death are mysteries of our world even Celestia nor I can understand. But to tamper with it? We cannot. However, it does not stop many a pony from trying. From potions to rituals, to complex spells. We have seen this sort of pursuit many times. It is a fruitless effort. Many theorize in bringing back the dead, though it is truly uncertain as to what sort of circumstance will result in.”

“Kind of like those zombie pony outbreaks in stories,” Twilight muttered dryly.

“Mm....we do not know of such prose....” Luna admitted, looking amused, “But we suppose it is certainly curious.”

“Right...” Twilight smiled slightly, before growing serious again. “Is there anything else we can do?”

“Our sister will monitor the situation, and we do have the finest doctors on staff making sure all goes smoothly. But, only time will tell. There is little more we can do till we see further results of her recovery.” Luna stood from her chair, “We must be going, for we have certain duties to attend to. But if thou should need us, you may come to our private study. Otherwise, we will return later to see how you all are doing. You all may stay in the castle for as long as Rainbow Dash is here, if you would like.”

“Okay,” Twilight nodded, giving her a smile. “Thank you again, Luna... it really means a lot to me that you’re here to help us.”

A smile overcame Luna’s face as she nodded as well, “Think nothing of it, Twilight Sparkle. We have made it a point to be sure to help our citizens, no matter who they may be... and in your case, you are extra special.” She gave nods of farewell to everypony else before gracefully exiting the room.

Moments later, a warm and fuzzy head nestled into Twilight’s shoulder. The corner of her eye caught sight of a pink curly mane, confirming that it was none other than Pinkie Pie.

“Hey, Pinkie. You doing okay?” Twilight asked.

Pinkie smiled and gave her a hug, “Of course, Twilight. I’m just worried about Dashie. I can’t believe some meanie-weanie griffin attacked her like that!”

“I know... I’ll have to ask Fluttershy about the situation,” Twilight said with a frown before turning back to the pink Earth pony. “But, I’m really glad you girls all came. I think it’ll really help a lot.”

“Well duh! Of course we were going to come and make sure Dashie was okay!” Pinkie told her with a grin. “We all made sure to come as soon as we got the letter! Don’t worry, Twi-Twi! We’ll be here till Dashie gets better... Is Flutters going to be okay?”

A heavy sigh escaped the unicorn as she snuggled against Pinkie for comfort. “I don’t even know, Pinkie. She was really torn up and distraught yesterday. According to Princess Luna, she was in shock. It took a long time to stop her from crying and begging for Rainbow Dash to be there. It took a while before we could get her to fall asleep. At least she was doing okay this morning, so I guess that’s good. …I just don’t think we’ll be able to pry her away from Rainbow’s bedside.”

Pinkie nuzzled Twilight, hugging her more. “Flutters loves Dashie! it’ll be like trying to tell a cupcake not to have icing!”

“...Right, yeah...” Twilight didn’t feel in the mood to point out that both situations were far from comparable. She hugged Pinkie back, finding herself really warming up to the sweet comfort the party pony was offering. It even her scent was nice, a mixture of sweet baked goods and sugar. “Well, I guess all of us being here should help Rainbow a lot. I hope it will.”

“It will, Twilight!” Pinkie pulled her head back and, much to the unicorn’s surprise, pecked her on the lips. “And we’ll all wait here until she wakes up!” Pinkie Pie then resumed her hug, enjoying the contact.

Twilight blushed immensely within the embrace of the happy-go-lucky earth pony, unsure of what to make of that little moment of contact. This was the first time anypony other than her parents had kissed her-and on the lips too! It felt surprisingly nice, actually. Twilight smiled. She didn’t mind that it had been Pinkie Pie who had stolen her first kiss as the ever happy mare was definitely one for random acts. Pinkie was also one of her closest friends. Perhaps it had been a simple random morale booster... Or maybe it was more... From within the warm confines of the spastic earth pony’s hold, Twilight wasn’t about to break the moment to ask about motives.

After a few moments of sedate silence, Spike settled down next to Rarity, sighing. “Well I guess it’s a case of ...and now we wait.”

“Yes. I hope my Spikie Wikey won’t get too bored,” Rarity wrapped a hoof around the already dull eyed dragon.

“Nah, I’ll be fine.” Spike smiled a bit at the snow-white unicorn in appreciation. “I guess I’m just worried. I had a feeling something like this would happen, I just didn’t know when.”

Rarity gave a nod, smiling sadly, “Indeed.”

Spike nodded, looking around at the other ponies, then at his claws, “I just hope Rainbow will be okay, though. I don’t think I’d ever seen Fluttershy or any of you this upset before.”

Applejack reached over and petted his head, making him giggle. “Believe me, sugarcube, Ah have a huge family, an’ yet ah’ve never experienced something like this before.”

The farmer sat down beside Rarity and quickly found herself leaning against the soft white coat of her friend. It was warm and inviting, but she knew she could go no further when said unicorn had a baby dragon in her forehooves. She let out a sigh as the group sat in thoughtful silence.

Applejack glanced across to Twilight who continued to snuggle with the baker. From where she sat, she decided they looked rather cute together. As her mind wandered, aided by the welcoming presence at her side, a thought struck her. Could this mean their group of six was about to divide up as they found their special somepony was someone they already knew? Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy had each other, as did Twilight and Pinkie Pie it seemed. However Spike was getting on too well with Rarity for her liking.

Applejack stiffened. Where did that come from? Was it because it would mean she would be left alone while the rest of her friends shared a special connection with somepony else in the group? Was that a sudden pang of jealousy she felt? The farmer felt as if she could do nothing but watch and be happy for her friends. After all, as a well brought up mare who was a part of a hard working family of ponies who never sought after same-sex relationships, she did like stallions right? Therefore there was no reason to be jealous of Spike. Then the seamstress cut the farmer’s thoughts off by leaning on the tense earth pony. The added weight of the soft mare at her side made Applejack slowly relax.

“All I can say is that there was one time a couple of years ago: my dear darling Sweetie Belle fell ill to pneumonia. If not for having been taken to the hospital, it was likely she would not have survived....” Rarity murmured sadly, her gaze downcast at the young dragon in her forehooves. “It really does open one up to the gradual possibility of losing somepony you care for.”

“Sorry, Rarity,” Spike gave her a little hug. “I uh...well, don’t really know first-hand what you went through or what Fluttershy’s going through... but you know, I’m still here to help if you guys need it at all.”

Rarity smiled warmly, “Thank you, dear. It’s very compassionate of you. I think we all very much appreciate it.”

“Hey, I just want to be there for Twilight and her friends,” Spike said with a bashful grin.

“Now don’t say that! Yer our friend too, Spike!” Applejack grinned as well. “Ya know we love ya!”

Casting a meaningful look toward Rarity and Twilight, Spike smiled, “Thanks.”

Later in the morning, Twilight entered the throne room to find her teacher there. As she entered the dreamlike room, the only sound was of hooves on the sun painted floor. Though the majestic alicorn didn’t acknowledge her presence, Twilight knew that she was aware of her entrance. Slowly, the unicorn approached her longtime mentor, sitting before her on her haunches. Pinkie Pie, Applejack, Rarity, and Spike followed in silence, allowing the purple unicorn to take the lead.

“Is there something you wished to see me about, my dear Twilight?” Celestia asked kindly, a small smile on her face.

“Well, it was about what Fluttershy said... about the fact that Rainbow Dash was attacked by a griffin.” Twilight said.

A small frown overcame the Princess’s face as she nodded slowly, “Yes, I recall. I had wanted to ask her further of the matter, but I also do not want to stir the trauma I’m certain she has faced.”

“I know what you mean,” Twilight agreed, shaking her head. “I might try later on, but I don’t know. It’s like you said. I don’t want to upset her even more, but I think it’s important we find out about it. Um...we did have a griffin recently come to Ponyville a few days ago, actually. She was in Junior Speedsters Flight Camp with Rainbow Dash.”

“I see...” Celestia said thoughtfully, gently urging her to continue.

“Well, the thing is, she just wasn’t nice to anypony. Of course nopony did anything about it because she was much bigger and stronger... Heck, some of them even justified her behaviour saying that we all go through a phase of not liking anypony,” Twilight rolled her eyes a bit. “Fine, sure, but that doesn’t justify their behaviour and doesn’t mean they shouldn’t own up to it and learn something from it. She stole from and tormented some ponies, including Fluttershy. But, nopony did anything about it. It came to a head when she was mean to Pinkie Pie, telling her to stay away from Rainbow Dash. Even after all that, Pinkie threw a party for her to try to make things better.”

Celestia chuckled, “Bless her heart. I can’t say I’m surprised.”

Twilight smiled as well, a little blush overcoming her cheeks. “That’s for sure. It was really nice of Pinkie to at least try to reach out to her. Unfortunately, the griffin, Gilda set off all these pranks that Rainbow Dash set up. That was part of the fun of the party. It was all bad luck on Gilda’s part and it’s no wonder Pinkie was blamed for it. Anyway, so then Rainbow told Gilda off after the way she treated her friends, and so Gilda left in a huff.”

“I see...” The alicorn of the sun murmured.

Twilight bit her lip, wondering if maybe, just maybe, there was some kind of a connection to this. “Princess, I could be wrong, but I wonder if... nah, it’s probably too far-fetched.”

“Twilight... Please share, you normally have wonderful insights. There is a very good reason I chose you to be my student.” The princes encouraged.

“Okay... Well what if the two events are connected? First Rainbow Dash has a rough encounter with Gilda, her old friend, then she gets beaten up by a griffin who wasn’t supposed to be in Canterlot. What if more griffins will come?” Twilight posed.

The princess sighed. “I had hoped it would never come to this...”

This caught the unicorn’s attention as she gazed up at her teacher curiously, “What do you mean? Come to what?”

“War. The griffin council have made threats for some time now. I have denied them what they have been searching for and it seems they now desire to take matters into their own claws.” The normally peaceful gaze of the sunny mare turned into something surprisingly violent.

“War?” Twilight repeated, a tinge of fear in her tone. “Princess... I....”

The others in the group stared, slack jawed at Celestia too. There hadn’t been a war for many thousands of years.

“Do ya’ll mean a war, as in ponies get killed kind of war?” Applejack asked, stunned as shockwaves of such an unreal mention continued to radiate around the once peaceful room.

“I do,” Princess Celestia said gravely. “However, I wish to stress that nothing is set in stone just yet. I do not want any of you to panic, nor to spread panic, either. If it comes to a confrontation, I will seek other ways to reinstate the treaty with the griffins. It has lasted for well over two thousand years and I do not wish to see it fail now.” The princess paused with a sigh and took a moment to gather herself. “That aspect is a long story, and one I shall share another time. Please, do not worry. It’s probably likely that the griffins are merely persistent and a little more aggressive in their attempts to gather the artifacts they desire, but I don’t believe it’s cause for alarm. Just please, keep calm, but do keep your guard up. I suspect that one in the griffin council is seeking war. If we stop him, all will be okay.”

Rarity felt the dragon by her side cuddle in close and put a reassuring hoof around the youngster’s shoulders. She gazed around noticing that her friends were doing no better. As a mare of art and fashion, a potential war was her worst nightmare.

“I understand, Princess,” Twilight said softly. “We’ll keep that in mind.”

“Ah really should tell Big Macintosh... He’ll wan’t ta keep a close eye on tha farm... Ah don’ need any stray griffin folk stealing our apples.” As was expected of the honest farmer, her first thoughts of defence was for her home.

Celestia smiled with assurance. “I understand, Applejack. If you do wish to depart for Ponyville, you’re welcome to, all of you.”

“O’ course, but Ah’ll write ‘em a letter fer now. Like ya said, no need ta panic,” Applejack relaxed herself a bit. “That’s really all Ah need, to let’ me know ta be careful.”

“What a good idea darling,” Rarity piped up, sounding rather more perky than before.

“I asked a few ponies back home to look after Fluttershy’s animals and Angel,” Twilight stated. “I’ll let them know to keep an eye out for anything as well and make sure the animals are safe. Griffins are carnivorous, after all.”

Pinkie Pie looked around the room, trying to think of a way to contribute to the conversation. “I guess I’ll have to make sure that Mr. Snuffles and Flubber look after the place! Oh! And I absolutely must tell the Cakes! We can’t have any mean old griffins invading my partyhouse!” Pinkie jumped up.

With that, the alicorn used her magic to summon some blank parchment over to the ponies along with a few quills, smiling. “There you are, my little ponies. Go ahead and compose your letters. Just be sure not to spread a panic, just that they should keep this in mind. As I said, nothing is for certain.”

Each in turn took their time to write the message they desired to send home onto the parchment. Once each mare had written their messages, Celestia used her magic to send the scroll off to its destination. Even Spike looked relieved to have his normal duty taken care of, and even looked more relaxed to see that the rest of his friends were at ease now, too.

Once each letter was sent, Celestia turned to the small group with a stern look on her muzzle. “What I am about to tell you is not to leave this room. At least not yet. Am I understood?” She paused, and was gratified to see each of the assembled ponies and dragon nod.

“Sure. But what is it about now?” replied Twilight, uncertainly.

“A long time ago, when I was but a young mare and my parents had only recently passed their rule over to my sister and I, our land was at peace. We had brought all ponies together under one banner and were on their way to forming Equestria as you know it. Outside our great nations’ bounds dwelt many other species. Dragons, changelings, the zebra tribes, and even the griffin colonies.”

“Okay... but what does this have to do with us now?” asked Twilight. After all, she had read more than enough history books to know the setting for the founding of Equestria.

The princess’s horn lit up and with her magic, she brought forth the box that contained the 6 elements of harmony. “You all know what is in this box?”

“Yes. Th’ elements of harmony,” replied Applejack, unsure as to where the mighty princess was headed.

“These were not the only magical artifacts to exist back then. To keep balance with my sister, myself, and the elements of harmony, my parents helped the griffins create their own elements to better govern and protect their lands.”

“You mean those meanies have their own elements of harmony?” asked Pinkie Pie, unable to believe what she had heard.

“Yes. Of sorts, although they chose their own name for their elements,” confirmed Celestia. “After all, in those days Equestria was but a fledgling and every creature strived for good in the knowledge of what war brings upon the land. But for the griffins, instead of using their elements for the betterment of all, they chose to use them to empower their ruler. He became a tyrant and all of ponykind were thrust into a brutal war against a nigh unkillable foe. ...Warbeak as he called himself... the monster was defeated, but the cost of victory was almost unbearable for me as that day, I lost my only daughter and my coltfriend, to whom I was engaged.” Celestia paused for a moment, as ancient painful memories returned unbidden to her.

The room fell silent as Celestia’s subjects awaited her recovery. Everypony couldn’t believe what they had just heard, not only had their princess endured a war with the griffins before, but she once had a daughter.

After several moments, the princess continued. “My sister and I hid the griffins artifacts. We erased their memory from the history books. No creature could contain the evil the malicious elements carried, nor could we destroy them. If ever the six griffin elements are reunited, Warbeak could very well return once more, in another form.” The mighty alicorn sighed. “As my sister and I no longer hold the elements of harmony, we are unlikely to be able to personally put a stop to him if he were to return. I have long hoped for peace between pony and griffin-kind, yet each generation, the griffins become more and more antagonistic toward Equestria.”

“So where are these dark griffin elements?” tentatively asked Twilight.

“They are hidden. However I know the location of a hooffull of them. If you wish to begin the search for one of them, then I would ask that you, my dear Twilight, seek them.”

“Ah hope Rainbow gets better soon...” muttered Applejack. “Then we can send her out too.”

“I second that,” added Rarity. “Although, I’m not sure it is a good idea sending Twilight out all alone.”

“I can go with her!” offered Pinkie Pie with an energetic bounce. She placed a forehoof around the purple unicorn’s shoulders in support for her friend.

“Thanks, Pinkie. But are you sure you don’t want to stay and keep an eye on Rainbow?” Twilight asked.

“Dear. I’m sure that as long as Fluttershy is watching over her, she will be sure to get better,” comforted Rarity. “And if I go with you as well, then at least we will have half our group to make sure our mission is a success.”

“What do you think, Princess?” Twilight turned to her mentor, a questioning look upon her face. “Should... should so many of us go? Or just me?”

“I think that it is a delightful idea if Laughter and Generosity go with you.”

“Me too!” Spike called out. “Please, Twilight is like a sister to me and I don’t want to see her get hurt.” He glanced down at his feet in mild embarrassment.

Celestia smiled brightly at the young dragon. “I think that sounds like a lovely idea. Although I have a feeling your request comes because of another pony too.” She smiled, delighted for him.

This caused Spike’s blush to intensify and his eyes began to examine the glossy floor closely as a way of avoiding the mighty alicorn’s gaze.

“Well Ah’m in too.” Applejack added defensively. “Ah don’t really want to jus’ sit around and twiddle mah hooves while you gal’s are off on an adventure.”

“It would still be nice to be there for Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash,” admitted Twilight.

“Fear not.” Celestia replied, her eyes sparkled knowingly as she continued. “I am sure it will take a day or two for you all to prepare yourselves. You may also use the time to visit your friend in hospital. Twilight, I shall give you some background reading to assist you in finding the first of the griffin elements.”

At the mention of research, Twilight’s eyes lit up. “Just give me the books and I’ll do the study!”

Celestia smiled down at her ever eager student. “That’s wonderful to hear Twilight Sparkle. I’m sure that the faster you all can accomplish your goal, the faster you will be back to continue your support for Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy.”

“That’s right. I just hope her and Fluttershy will be alright.” Twilight sighed, the mention of her hospitalized friends brought her back down to reality. “It’s a shame they can’t come with us...”

“Do not worry about Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash. Of the three griffin elements I hid, one is rather far away. I think that if we were to send the two pegasi to retrieve it, they would be able to do so in the most timely manor. It would allow you four to retrieve the one other I know of, after Rainbow Dash’s recovery. That is... providing she awakens sooner rather than later.” Celestia chose to leave out the part where she explained how long the coma my last. The mood was sombre enough without such information out in the open.

Twilight nodded solemnly at her mentor’s words. “I think that’s a great plan, Princess. But do you think it’s safe to break the elements of harmony up like this?”

“While the griffins elements are broken up, they are useless. The only need for all six elements of harmony would arise if the griffins were to obtain their six. So, to answer your question, I think it will work better if you split up now and maximize your chances of success.” Celestia advised in a calm manner.

Twilight nodded in agreement before she remembered something else and turned to her mentor, “Princess...if it’s okay, could I go and see Rainbow? I know Fluttershy is there with her and you said that it should only be one, but I’d just like to see her for a minute. I won’t be too long.”

Celestia’s permission was forthcoming with a sad smile. “Yes. That should be okay. But I would like the rest of you to give the couple their space till tomorrow.”

Applejack gave an understanding smile, “O’ course, Princess. We’re here ta help anyway we can. An’ we’ll be there ta see ‘em whenever we can.”

“Absolutely,” Rarity agreed.

“Oh! I know! We could plan the bestsest party in all of Equestria for them once they get well again!” Pinkie looked overjoyed at the idea of a party in the palace.

Celestia giggled, “I think a nice party would set everypony in high spirits.”

“Yay!” Pinkie exploded with joy. “That will give me something extra fun do when we are out on our super duper adventure!”

Twilight gave a smile as well, before she stood and headed toward the door flanked by her friends. “Okay, I’ll be right back, I just want to make sure everything’s okay with Fluttershy and Rainbow too.”

“Absolutely, dear. We’ll be waiting for you in the lounge,” Rarity replied as she split off from the scholar.

Pinkie bounded over to the lavender unicorn, giving her a tight hug. “Good luck, Twilight! See you later!”

Recalling a certain little moment from earlier, Twilight blushed a bit, but smiled, “Thanks Pinkie. I’ll see you later.” She gave the Earth pony a quick hug before her mentor drew her attention once more.

“Twilight. May I have a quick word with you before you check on your two friends?” The tone of the alicorn’s voice gave nothing away as she stood up from her throne to approach her student.

“Um... Sure.” The uncertain unicorn trotted back to meet her long time teacher.

As the sounds of clopping died down, Celestia used her magic to shut the doors to the throne room. “I have been meaning to tell you something for a while now...”

“Um... okay?” A sense of foreboding fell upon Twilight. She didn’t like where her mentor was headed, not that she had any idea what was forthcoming.

Although the ancient alicorn stood proud, a look of sadness filled her features. “I have failed you, Twilight.”

“What!? No you haven't-” protested the young mare, only to be cut off by the sage-like alicorn in front of her.

“Of all the things I was required to teach you. There is one topic I never touched upon. Ever since you were a little filly I have been training my possible replacement.”

The news hit Twilight like a ton of bricks. The young scholar felt like running away, to hide or simply evade the underlying implications of why she had been raised as the mighty alicorn’s replacement.

“When you were young, the griffin council and I met here in this very room. They were angry. One of their number even hinted at war if I didn’t step down and allow somepony more... normal to take over in my place. They required that I teach you the ways of war as well as peace. Although I promised them I would teach you at least some of the art of war, in the years since I chose not to. It now appears that my actions will cost everypony dearly. You see Twilight, when the time comes, you are to be the new princess of Equestria. It is time to take the steps to fulfil your destiny.”

Twilight stood in shock as she slowly digested the news. “But... but... what...?” She stammered. “A princess...?”

“Yes.”

“Does this mean I won’t be your student anymore?” asked a highly worried Twilight.

“I will still be here for you, to see you take your final steps to becoming the new leader Equestria needs. It has become clear to me that my time here as Princess is ending. It shall come to an end whether I like it or not.” Princess Celestia’s motherly gaze never left her student and despite the shocking news, the mighty alicorn did her best to exude calm.

“Is... is there a book or something that I can study on how to be a princess?” Fumbled the bookworm as she fought to calm herself from the sudden rush of nerves.

“It is not something books can teach. Luna is happy to help you pick up what you require to know about war. She will also be your teacher, if you allow her to be.”

“I-I would be honoured to have her as my teacher as well. But... Princess... I’ve been wondering... Why not just send Luna or the guards out to retrieve these ‘griffin elements’?” The future princess asked, eager to take the conversation off the topic of her impending coronation.

“The absence of one of the princess’s would attract too much attention. We here in Canterlot are being watched. I do not know how closely or by whom, but I know for certain that we are. Even one so reclusive as Luna cannot go unnoticed for too long. After all, she is the one who raises the moon. My guard are required for other tasks, such as border patrol and the defense of our outer cities. Changelings have been spotted as well as griffins and both appear to be antagonistic toward my little ponies.”

“Changelings...?” The well studied youngster knew little about the shape shifting creatures, save that they were not ones to play nice. “Y-you don’t think... that maybe they are working with the griffins?”

Celestia sighed and turned to gaze out one of the mighty windows that looked out over the city. “I have given it thought. I dare say that if they are, the two sides will not be able to work together for long as changelings are not creatures to be trusted, even by griffin-folk.”

“Oh... well ...I hope they turn on one another before they attack us. I would hate to be caught up in a war” managed Twilight. She didn’t like the thought her home coming under attack from two sides.

Celestia nodded but otherwise kept her silence for the moment.

“So... is there anything else? Or do I go see Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy now?” Asked Twilight as she started to feel herself get antsy for some kind of action.

“You may go.” The queenly alicorn nodded.

Twilight paused at the door and turned to face her mentor. “Oh and Princess... I’m so sorry to hear that you lost your only daughter.”

Celestia smiled a sad smile as her eyes met the bright shining orbs of her student’s. “Maybe I should tell you about her one day. It comes with quite a story.”

The young mage nodded, a smile formed on her muzzle. “I think I would like that, thanks.” She waved goodbye and with that, departed for the hospital rooms.

Celestia walked up to the stained glass and gazed outside to her realm, deep in thought. “Maybe I should visit him one day...” she considered as she continued to gaze outside in the direction of the Canterlot Gardens.

Suddenly the ruler’s mood shifted and she tore her gaze away from outside. “No... those days are long gone.” She let out a final sigh before allowing her serene exteriour to return.

If somepony were to walk in on the princess now, they would have no clue that anything was ever wrong.

Chapter Fifteen: Griffon at the Gate Part 2

Chapter Fifteen: Shaking the Nest

Mighty Wing, Chief Grandeur’s mansion

Early morning hung across the griffin territories. It was that time between the dark and the dawn. Celestia’s sun was yet to rise upon the land and for most, it was still a time of rest. There were, however, two who were awake in the residence of Chief Grandeur.

The Chief himself strolled into his dining room. The candlelit room was covered in almost complete darkness due to the candles burning low. The mighty griffin seated himself down before he gazed at his plate. “Where is my breakfast?” His demanding tone rang out.

“Where are the kids?” bluntly questioned Gretelda as she stalked up behind her mate.

“What?” The master of the house turned to his mistress. “They should be ready to attend breakfast with us.”

“Well perhaps you would like to try their rooms. Both our chicks are missing,” replied Gretelda in a worried tone that told her mate she was most displeased with him.

“Well I didn’t order them to do anything. Now where’s that butler... I’m hungry!” The irate master turned to his absent plate, his action dismissing the other griffon.

“You mean, you don’t care about our children?” the mistress of the house asked, hurt by the words of the griffin she loved.

“Yes I do,” the strong, well endowed griffin retorted. “But they have clearly decided on some sort of morning activity together. I know my daughter will be back. There is a meeting this morning at sunrise.”

“But Glen always sleeps in. You know how lazy that youngling is.” It was clear, the annoyed female was not about to let her partner go.

“Look, if they don’t both show up by sunrise I will have them found. Does that settle it for you?” The quick tempered chief turned to his mate once more, his gaze hard as his belly demanded for food now!

With a sigh Gretelda turned away. “I take it that because it’s your big day, you will be unable to search for them personally?”

“Aye... Sadly.” Claws clacked against the table as Grandeur continued to impatiently await his morning meal.

“Whatever... Well, till they are back, you have lost my support.” The hurt griffin missus stalked out from the room.

A rumble sounded in the near darkness. Chief Grandeur was still hungry.

“Where is that butler? He should be here already.” Sharp claws continued to drum against the table as the big cruel boss awaited service.

However, it soon became clear that nothing was forthcoming. Claws scraped along the table like fingernails down a blackboard. The earsplitting screech should have been enough to instantly summon a worried butler.

With a muttered curse, the massive winged beast hauled himself up and headed straight for one of the few rooms he never ventured into: The kitchen.

It looked like today was truly a rare day: He would have to make his own meal.

Three griffins sat in the study of Chief Grandeur as the sun rose above the horizon. Celestia’s sun lit the room, giving a wonderful warm glow to an otherwise sour atmosphere. It had become clear that neither Gilda nor her brother were about to turn up.

The young ex-captain sat in silence beside his new missus. He wondered why his master was in such a foul mood. He wondered why that very same griffin had summoned him, yet he dreaded voicing either for fear of forfeiting his young life at the claws of the older angry griffin.

“Where is she...” muttered the Chief. “Come on... thou never late...”

Suddenly a clawed fist slammed against the desk. “Come on my daughter. Where art thou...”

Gretelda suddenly poked her head in the door. “My Lord... you told me our chicks would be back. I expect them to be found without delay.”

“Yes yes, I will. Now fly off somewhere. I’ve got a meeting to attend to.”

The chief’s mate left in a huff. No further words were said as the door slammed behind her. The irate griffin stalked off to try and find her children herself.

The mighty leader turned to face his loyal scout and his mate. “And now we can get down to business...”

The pair in front of the chief waited nervously for him to continue as he examined the pair for a moment at his leisure. “My daughter was supposed to appear today with us. I had something in mind for her, but since she has gone missing... I guess the two of you will have to do.”

Volibeak nodded. “Of course... I live to serve you Chief.”

This made Chief Grandeur smile. At last his day could get back on track. “Good. Now here is what thee must do...”

Within fifteen minutes the meeting was well and truly over. The trio were now situated at the window, overlooking the mighty capital of the griffin colonies.

The pride-filled leader allowed his gaze to rest upon the mighty roost of the eight. It was there that he knew his lordship over all griffins would be solidified this day. The seven other chiefs were sure to bow to his rulership. Flanked by them, he could summon all to his cause and they would claim the ripe land of Equestria and stomp out the menace of the changelings in one fell swoop.

His tickets for success lay in the draws at his desk. One lay in the secret compartment of each side. The third, he knew his greedy father would keep jealously hidden away till the time came to summon the one who would secure victory in the later battles. In the mean time, two talismans would give ample power to secure himself as supreme ruler of the griffin colonies.

With a smile he loped over to his desk and withdrew the first talisman, the golden talon. The eyes of the younger griffins filled with awe as they beheld the object of griffin myth. Chief Grandeur leaned over to the left draw. As soon as he opened it he could tell something was off. A concerned look crossed his face. ‘Who art been snooping about in my study...’ he wondered to himself. He knew that no beast could possibly know of the object that lay hidden below the rest of the draw.

With care, the leader of the capital gripped the hook and pulled lightly. The secret compartment opened to reveal nothing.

The mighty griffin’s heart stopped. This was impossible.

He had been robbed.

“Gilda!” His rage filled cry rang out as he realised who the offender had to be.

It made perfect sense. She must have stolen from her very own father and fled, fearing his wrath.

The offending drawer was suddenly flung against the filing cabinets behind him. The chief of Mighty Wing proceeded to take his rage out on everything within claw range.

The young couple stood by in fearful silence as their master attacked his own desk. They were too afraid to move, even when a slab of wood smacked Volibeak in the face. They could not believe one so old, wise, and high up was prone to such violent acts against his own property.

The rage filled destruction quickly subsided and a panting beast stood around the shards of his ornate table. Without a word he picked up his one remaining talisman and stalked over to the couple.

They pulled back fearfully as he approached and were glad when he failed to lash out at them too.

“Give me your pack.” A foreclaw with splinters in it extended. It opened to accept the shoulder slung bag from the scout who obeyed his master immediately and without question.

The golden claw was thrust into the bag. Two sets of eyes followed the revered object the whole way.

“Since my daughter has robbed me of my second talisman, I shall require the both of thee to be extra careful. I no longer have the full power I was counting on,” Grandeur spoke, his voice as hard as stone.

“Yes, Chief,” Volibeak replied for the couple. “But we are still ready. The scouts will give their allegiance to you too.”

“Good. Come with me. I have an idea that may yet grant me the power I seek.” Chief Grandeur stalked out in search of his father.

The two younger griffins followed their master faithfully out. Both wished to know where they were headed before their mid-morning mission but neither had the courage to ask the creature whose mood could still swing at the drop of a talon.

Mighty Wing, Chief’s Nest

Seven griffins sat impatiently around the round table in the Chief's Nest. This was the their parliament house, the place where all major decisions were made public to the other cities and tribes. The sturdy walls were adorned with nothing besides the massive drawing board at the head of the room. It was like a small bunker. Near impenetrable save for the skylight above. The mid day sun shone through the small open window, a reminder that time was moving on. The seven waited for the final member of their ruling party. As usual, he was late.

Suddenly the door to the Nest burst open to reveal Chief Grandeur. The massive chief was flanked by his personal guard, the banned unit of the black guard. The griffin at his side stood a full head taller this his master. The room fell silent as they saw the giant beast. The insignia on his black shoulder plate of a winged shield caused a stir. Everyone knew what it meant. Commander Dark Wing smirked as glares of hate burned into him. His mere existence was a threat to all who opposed Chief Grandeur and he enjoyed his reputation.

“You know that is a banned unit,” stated Chief Patrick, the eldest griffin present. His grey hooded cape covered his equally grey hide and wings. “He will see execution for it.”

“An’ what happened to your face...? Ya look even more fuggly than normal,” asked another of the seven chieftains who were seated round the table.

“No he won’t,” replied Chief Grandeur with a confident air. He smirked at the comment regarding his looks, but chose to otherwise ignore the jab at his vanity, at least they noticed. “For today, everything changes!”

“Get that guard out of here now!” demanded Chief Lucian, an earth brown griffin with spiky styled mane of crystal white. “I will not allow our sacred meeting to be intruded upon by your personal army! Were the one who called this thing, the least you can do it obey its rules!” the law keeper threatened.

Several of the other chiefs also called for the Black Guard griffins who flanked Chief Grandeur to be expelled from the room or executed. Instead of doing either, the capital’s leader strutted to his place at the head of the table.

“Guards... take up thine position at the door... see that we are not interrupted.” He casually told the black armoured griffins around him.

“You will is my command,” replied Commander Dark Wing.

The towering griffin turned to the two other black guard and with a single nod, marched out the door. With a slam it closed. The loud noise reverberated around the small bunker-like room. A threatening silence fell upon the eight as the griffin at the head of the table took his place.

Now the eight chieftains were alone with each other. Grandeur had been looking forward to this moment all morning.

“You’ve got some balls showing up like that,” growled Chief Stewie, a short creamy brown griffin with a light purple mane. He placed a claw on the table and looked ready to pounce on his fellow chief.

“Intended,” grinned Chief Grandeur. “That’s why I have two children and thou have none.”

A venomous hiss escaped the chief of the southern isles beak. “What did you just say?”

“I said...” With a loud slam the mighty claw of the cities chief hit the ancient table. Not only did it serve to draw attention from all present but it also ensured he had the spotlight for what he wished to tell his fellow chiefs.

The massive griffin spoke up nice and loud, “I am here to claim what is mine... I expect you all to give thy allegiance to me. I call for a vote. Let us vote for who shalt take the mantle of high chief.”

“Well you're stupid then, aren't ya,” scoffed a greying griffin from the only other major griffin city. “I will never vote for ya, or my name’s aint Zeke the Untamable, chief of all who live in East Wing.”

“I had hoped for as much...” murmured Grandeur to himself. He smirked back at his fellow chieftain, filled with hope for an upcoming fight.

The massive chieftain motioned with the claw on the table. Moments later, the lightly armoured body of one of the guards of East Wing crashed through the skylight above. The body slammed into the big round table with a crunch. Many of the chiefs to jumped in surprise and horror at the merciless deed performed in their presence.

“Oops… looks like someone was caught watching us…” commented Chief Grandeur with a nonchalant air.

“What is th’ meaning of this?” The northern accent of Chief Saxon rang out directly across from Grandeur. It was questing, but not accusing of his fellow ally.

“I knew Zeke here would attempt to backstab,” calmly stated the master of Mighty Wing in his most cocky tone.

“I did not!” The chief of the dead griffin retorted, wings flared in anger at the accusation. “You set me up!”

This only caused the supremely confident griffin to settle back in his seat. The smug grin on his face proved enough to further anger his adversary and the grey griffin of East Wing leapt across the table, propelled by mighty wings.

Claws clashed and beaks snapped as the two chieftains tore at each other. Loud squawks rent the air as the pair battled for supremacy. They fought with raised forelegs, vying for an opening against each other. Claws ripped at the air as they circled each other in the enclosed space. After several more quick swipes the pair of adversaries leapt away from each other, panting lightly.

“I’ll get ya’ this time ya’ worm!” Zeke the Untameable cried as he lunged at the ruler of Mighty Wing.

Claws met and quickly locked, wings flared and a brutal struggle for dominance began as both griffins attempted to push the other over. All the while beaks zipped around, seeking an entrance, to rend and tear flesh.

Grandeur found himself tiring under the constant assault of the slightly younger and fitter griffin chieftain. Suddenly his back paws slipped on the hard stone floor. Distracted by his traitorous hind legs, the mighty griffin used his wings to steady himself. In the split second requited to regain balance, his adversary’s beak found its mark on the soft neck tissues of the cocky ruler. Once, twice a third time the predatory beak lashed out. Each time the surprised Grandeur could do nothing but take the blows to his face and neck.

Chief Grandeur unleashed a squawk of pain and fell back upon the hard floor. His forelegs curled reflexively around his neck, ready to shield from further assault. He could feel his rage settling upon him. Rage was good, it was powerful. He loved the sense of power it gave. He smiled up at his opponent as Zeke the Untameable strutted around his fallen enemy as if he were prey. “Come and get me you pathetic excuse for a city chieftain,” mocked Grandeur.

Zeke the Untameable unleashed a roar of anger. “Ya dead! Ya hear me!?” The angered greying griffin lunged at the grounded monster who continued to grin up at his foe in the most condescending way he could.

For the beast on the ground, it felt like time had slowed to a crawl as he faced his own impending death with a smile. Now was his time. Now was his chance.

“Die prey...” muttered Mighty Wing’s master.

From against his chest, Grandeur retrieved his own talisman as well as the one he had ‘borrowed’ from his father. He imbued his rage into the pair of ancient artefacts. His anger flowed like a river of molten lava, flooding the bottomless pit inside each of the talismans he bore. His foreclaws burned against the two talismans as he held onto them, on in each claw.

As claws of death touched the downed griffin, a shaft of light broke the lunge. With unreal speed the downed monster leapt out of the way. With wings that glowed an angry red, the cocky griffin was borne aloft to the ceiling where he hovered, leering down at the surprised chief below.

“I am the one who is to be ruler of our kind,” stated Chief Grandeur. “None may stand in my way...”

With that he fell upon the beast below and with a swift blow to the head, he felled him. Shocked gasps escaped the unwilling audience who could not believe their eyes.

“You murderer...” muttered Chief Lucian, shocked that anyone present would dare kill a member of the council.

The rage induced red magic receded from the master of Mighty Wing and he flicked his mane, dispelling droplets of his own blood. “What was that? Oh I’m sorry. But I have the talismans of Warbeak.” He smiled, filled with confidence. “Therefore... As his heir by blood and a chieftain on the council of the eight tribes, I hereby claim the title of supreme chieftain over all griffins.”

“Was this why you summoned us? To just take control?” asked Chief Patrick. The council elder sounded really miffed off and dug his claws into the round table in anger at the seemingly careless  attitude his fellow chief had chosen to display. “You. Can’t. Just. Do that…”

“Why yes... thou art right,” nodded Chief Grandeur smugly. He tucked the two talismans safely away once more. “You all know what the confirmed existence of the six talismans of Warbeak mean. It is our duty to sweep aside the weak excuse for creatures that is ponykind and claim all the lands in this world. Now is the time I tell thee. Rise up... Support me and I will see to it that griffins emerge victorious. As thee have seen... I, as heir of Warbeak the first, am able to use his talismans. Therefore... I speak truth. Join my cause, dedicate thou clans and cities to me and together we shall not only clear the ponies from this land, but all others as well.”

The soft clack, clack of a single griffin clapping rang out across the stunned room. Chief Harrison continued to applaud Grandeur as a highly awkward silence settled upon the room. “You finally have my support for supreme Chieftain of all the eight griffin tribes.” He confirmed. “Well played. You scheming flankhole…”

“And Ah too,” added Saxon in his northern accent. Despite his statue like pose, the chieftain sounded willing to continue his support for the cocky master of their capital city.

Chief Brian Fury, a tawny brown and black griffin who had remained silent chose to speak up too. “Alright... You have convinced me. My tribe is yours o merciless Grand Master…” He didn't sound pleased with his own words and quickly slumped down in silence.

At the conclusion of a third vote of confidence in the ruthless chief, Stewie unleashed a throaty growl. “Screw you. Neither I, nor any in the Southern Isles will support such scum. Can you not all see? He will get us all killed! I want a war, but not one that we will lose.”

Grandeur simply smiled back at the antagonistic griffin. He expected the short creamy griffin to reject his authority. The stunted griffin always had shown dislike of all who were taller than himself.

“Lucian?” asked Chief Grandeur, his tone full of confidence.

All eyes turned to chief who personally looked after the law books. The chieftain sighed, “I won’t condone your actions... but you leave my tribe no choice. I will allow you to be high Chief on one condition. You leave me in charge of my own tribe at all times. If I am to follow, I demand this of you.”

“Fine. Thy wish is granted,” shrugged Grandeur.

“And you will not get away with the murder of one of our eight,” added the master of law before he too settled back, he gaze affixed to the new high chief.

“Thou is a liar and a cheat and a murderer... What a sorry arse of a ruler we have,” Chief Patrick muttered. “I’d burn thy tail and skin the feathers off thou wings if I were able. I see thee only have two of the six... Does this mean we are to be set on a wild goose chase? Or does thou actually have more?” The council elder leaned forward intently, his gaze bored into the griffin who was about to become the ruler of his kind.

“My griffins are retrieving the last three as we speak,” smiled Chief Grandeur.

“Then thou have been doing a lot behind our backs...” muttered Patrick. Murmurs of agreement followed his comment.

“Yes. War is upon us. Thou have seen it coming... surely it is good then for us to make the first move. With me, we shalt not only contest the ponies’ homeland, we shall claim everything from Canterlot to Cloudsdale for ourselves.”

The mention of the magical city in the clouds spiked a positive response. Many a griffin had visited the cloud city. Everyone loved it. The only problem were its inhabitants.

“I offer thee it all,” added a victorious Grandeur.

“Buck it. You’ve got us. No wonder I saw a changeling so close to home.” Stewie stalked over to his new boss and glared up at the scared face before him. “Because you’re working with them, aren’t you?”

“Oh council...”

Suddenly, a cold darkness reached out across the room. Creepy laughter rang out across the room. It echoed in a surreal way that caused all present to stiffen up at the unwelcome sound.

“Hello griffins,” the alien voice of the queen of the changelings rang out across the room once more. It sounded almost double pitched and full of mocking glee.

Manes bristled and feathers stood on end as everyone turned to face the intruder from above.

A guard flew down from the skylight. He stood before all, proud and tall on the sacred round table. The creature quickly morphed into the alien form of the changeling queen. Queen Chrysalis stood before all, her jet black form held an unreal sheen to it that appeared to unsettle the council even further.

"So nice of you all to welcome me here on such an important day." Her condescending tone remained as she addressed the chiefs.

"What is she doing here?" demanded Chief Patrick.

"Well she wasn't invited..." muttered Chief Grandeur. "State thy purpose. For no one is welcome at a council of the tribes save for the eight who rule.

"I've come regarding the war." At her words, almost half the griffins in the room tensed, the impending war wasn’t the most popular topic in the roost.

"Then speak of this to me later. For soon this shall be over." The mighty chief of the griffins motioned to his fellow griffins in the room.

“Oh, but I think now is the perfect time...” Chrysalis almost purred with glee. “I’m so delighted you failed to tell your fellow chieftains of our agreement.” She sadistically smiled at new ruler of the council. “May I enlighten them?”

Chief Grandeur felt like ripping the changeling before him to shreds. Just as he had won his fellow chiefs over, his secret ally was about to damage his already shaky reputation. “Fine,” he spat.

Insect like wings buzzed as the queen of the changelings fluttered over to the grand master’s side. “As you all should know. We all are about to invade Equestria. I need their love, and-”

Before the queen could continue, the font doors burst open to reveal the black guard. A masked assassin stood before them, ready to attack unwelcome invader.

“Stop all of thee!” ordered Grandeur before any could reach his temporary ally. “Chrysalis... Queen Chrysalis, is a friend... Our… ally.” he spat the word out out as if it were poison. “Please escort her out and don’t allow her to turn into one of thee...”

“Yes m’lord.” Replied Commander Dark Wing as he advanced upon the lone changing.

The massive Black Guard towered over the smaller queen. With a smile, Chrysalis’s horn lit up. The giant griffin found himself unable to advance. The queen’s magical hold on him was too strong.  With an annoyed grunt he continued to struggle against his bonds.

“Let me put this straight…” Chrysalis smiled victoriously. “You don’t like me… and I don’t like you. But if we work together, we can both get what we desire. You don’t care about the ponies’ love. Let me and my changelings have it all. I don’t care about their lands… you can have those.”

“You know… I like that idea,” Chief Stewie replied, a sudden grin erupted across his face.

“What?” Several shocked griffins turned to the usually antagonistic griffin leader.

“I do. You make our war easer… you and your changelings get what you’re after. Why should I care what you do with their love. Love is for the weak. But turn on me and my whole tribe and more will seek you out and destroy your kind!”

Chrysalis smiled at the cocky griffin’s words. At least she still had her allies. “Then it is done. I’m sure you can share with them the plan. I would hate to have to come back again.” Insect like wings buzzed as the queen took flight.

Silence. Rough, angry silence took over in the absence of the queen of the changelings.

“Looks like someone has to come clean…” stated Chief Lucian.

From the immediate physical response by his fellow chieftains, it was clear they all wished to hear what had been hidden.

“I will… after thou all swear allegiance to me and announce my new position,” replied Grandeur as he brushed more blood off his mane. The day certainly had turned into a rocky road. But that didn’t mean his goal wasn’t one step closer than before. The new high chief smiled to himself. This was certainly a moment to remember. Now all he had to do was return his father’s talisman before it was found to be missing.

As much as Grandeur wanted to keep such a powerful item for himself, he knew his crazy father would lose it entirely if he discovered the robbery. Plus, the old bird brain was needed for the sacrifice.

As his fellow chieftains continued to talk around and to him, the new lord of all griffins congratulated himself for such a perfect plan. Nothing could stop what was about to happen. A sharp claw found the corpse of Zeke, the chieftain truly had been untameable. Grandeur took a moment to consider the best replacement for the deceased chief of the city, East Wing. Whoever they turned out to be, they would just so happen to be a loyal supporter of their master.

The greying beast smiled to himself. The next few days were sure to be a lot of fun.

Mighty Wing streets

In an empty backstreet of the mighty griffin city, two griffins strolled along victorious. The high Chieftain of the griffins towered over his servant, Kapisi the assassin.

“Good job on the false spy. It's nice to see he was one of them... Now I have another task for thee… I want you to seek out my chicks and bring me Gilda and my talisman. And don’t forget to follow up on Unknown. I still wish to see the heads of the Elements of Harmony on my desk,“ Chief Grandeur muttered to Kapisi.

The pale yellow griffin nodded, his black stripes rippled as he smiled up at his master. “It shall be done.”

“Good…” smiled the Grand Master of all griffins. He then strutted away as if nothing had ever happened. It was time to make his first public appearance as the new chieftain of all griffins.

The assassin motioned to the dead air of the alleyway. Five other griffins slipped from the shadows. “We have a mission,” stated the lead assassin he strolled into the shadows and in an instant was gone. The five remaining assassins glanced amongst themselves before obediently following their master off.

Edge of Equestria, not far from Baltimare

A small group of griffins flew silently along in the breeze. The winged beast in the lead somehow managed to retain the hood he wore to cover his mysterious face.

Deep scarlet eyes penetrated the surrounding landscape in search of unwanted company.

As the lone pony city came into view far below, the eight flying figures took to even greater heights.

Eight forms disappeared into a large cloud. The fluffy white construct began to move along the horizon faster than before as if propelled by a strong breeze. To all below, nothing was amiss.

Even the city guards on high alert failed to spot anything odd in the sky as the cloud far above continued on its way over the city. It was headed at speed toward Canterlot.

Chapter Sixteen: Griffon at the Gate Part 3

Chapter Sixteen: Bed of Pink

Canterlot Palace

That very same morning when everything changed for the griffins, a peaceful, loving dawn graced ponykind, courtesy of Celestia. On this morning full of surprises, more than just Celestia’s magic appeared to be at work for ponykind. Some would say Princess Mi Amore Cadenza was at work in the land as well, for love lingered in the air. Simple, joyful love that knew no bounds. It brought peace to those who shared it despite the hard times ahead. Two ponies in particular lay in a special kind of peace in each others hooves. One pink and the other purple.

Twilight awakened to the warmest most cuddly morning she had ever experienced. It felt like she had all her blankets magically heated, giving her warm fuzzy love. Whatever this was, it was absolutely heavenly. A comfy bed, the warmest of blankets and feathery pillows... this was truly a wonderful feeling for Twilight. It felt better than Hearth’s Warming morning, with the warm fuzzes thrown in and everything. She wanted to bask in this wonderful feeling for all eternity if she could.

Something against her moved. It alerted Twilight, but didn’t deter her completely.

“Hi!” Came a cheerful, sweet voice.

“Hello, Pinkie...” Twilight mumbled sleepily.

Her eyes shot open. ‘Pinkie!?!’

Sure enough, Pinkie Pie lay there in the bed next to her with a big grin on her face. The two ponies were very close due to the intimate cuddle the party pony had her locked in. Twilight’s eyes were wide as the sleep all but faded from them. Her heart pounded, and she felt so powerless and yet, comforted all at once.

“You’re finally awake, Twilight!” Pinkie giggled and kissed her on the mouth, gently before pulling away. “Good morning!”

“W-what are you doing in my bed?” Twilight asked, completely lost and taken aback by the affectionate little lip lock.

“Silly, you asked me to sleep with you last night! So I did!” Pinkie told her.

Twilight went red. “I… I... sleep… with me?”

The grinning pony rolled them over slowly. She claimed top position and straddled the flushed bookworm with a cheeky, delighted look. “Ohhh…you must’ve been super duper tired and can’t remember! But it’s true! You were falling asleep, and asked if I could stay with you! So I did and I wanted to keep you all warm and toasty all night! You’re so cuddly, Twilight!” Pinkie giggled as she nuzzled the embarrassed mare.

Twilight felt her body tremble. She wasn’t sure what to make of Pinkie’s sporadic intrusion into her personal space, and yet, felt immense curiosity well up inside. What would happen if she kept allowing these actions? It was, after all, one of her first times ever sharing any sort of romantic moment with anypony.

“So here we are!” Pinkie ruffled her mane. She gazed happily down at the embarrassed librarian with a gleeful smile. She kissed her again, this time prolonging it.

Twilight didn’t resist, nor did she move at first. But just when she managed to apply pressure in return, there was an interruption.

A knock sounded at the door.

“Come in!” Twilight called softly, unsure of who their guest was.

Princess Luna’s head popped around from behind the door, only to spot the two mares cuddled up in bed, Pinkie Pie nestled happily on top. “I… Must go...” The alicorn of the night bolted out, as if in a panic.

“Silly Woona.” Pinkie giggled, “we weren’t doing anything dirty... yet. Now where is she going?” Pinkie wondered, sitting up. “That wasn’t nice! Why would you come in and then leave? Come on, Woonie...”

“...Woona? Woonie?” asked Twilight, at a loss over her companion’s silly names.

“Yes, silly, the Princess! Woona!” Pinkie exclaimed as if it were common knowledge.

It was a moment like this that Twilight knew all the more, she would never understand Pinkie Pie’s way of thinking. Yet, there was still something so adorable and quirky about it, the silly pony’s attitude was hard not to like. “...Right... well, we should get up and go get some breakfast, then.”

“Okey dokey lokie! Let’s go, Twilight!” The party pony pulled her companion out of bed, dragging her toward the bathroom suit with gusto.

With no other option, Twilight just allowed herself to be taken along for the ride. Despite that, even she couldn’t help but smile at Pinkie’s outgoing and cheerful ways. It really was just the medicine they needed in these tough times.

The party pony happily washed her silent companion. As Pinkie worked with her usual energy, Twilight’s mind wandered. It seemed the crazy pink pony really did like her. Seeing how they lay intwined in bed, it was no wonder Luna had left in a hurry earlier. The poor princess must have assumed the worst. She was brought out of her thoughts by the cheerful humming of her caregiver.

“Rub a dub dub dub, two fillies in a tub!” Pinkie giggled, then hummed a totally different tune in a seemly made up language. She continued to work with gusto upon her crush. With care, she rubbed the special purple coat down and couldn’t help but admire it the whole time. With a big, wide grin it was clear how much she enjoyed the moment.

Suddenly Pinkie Pie paused, “time to get you all nice and clean, Twi-Twi!”

“T-thank you, Pinkie. Would... do you now need me to wash you?” She asked tentatively.

Pinkie beamed and nodded. “Yes, pwease! Go ahead, Twilight!”

“Um… right. Uh… I’ve never done this before... so just let me know if I’m doing it right...” She started scrubbing slowly, using her magic to guide the scrubber along the back of her companion.

“Don’t worry, your auntie Pinkie is right here to help!” Pinkie giggled. “Oooh! That’s nice!” She giggled again, like a less than innocent school filly, as the scrubber reached her cutie mark.

Twilight smiled. Maybe she could get used to Pinkie... The mare under her care seemed to enjoy the activity a lot... Perhaps too much. The cleaning unicorn put it off as Pinkie Pie being Pinkie Pie. After all, they had a morning to start. Surely there were items on her list that required her attention.

“There. I think...” Twilight trailed off. She glanced along the pink mare’s body, doing her best to spot any remaining areas that needed a good clean.

“Thanks Twilight!” Pinkie bounded out of the tub. She plucked two towels off the rack and handed one to the quiet unicorn. “Maybe we can try the other areas next time.” She grinned. Her expression made it clear what she hoped those other places were.

“Other areas? What?” Twilight gave the cheeky earth pony a perplexed look.

“You know!” Pinkie giggled, enjoying herself in the moment.

“Not really...” Twilight admitted.

Pinkie spun around and planted her poofy tail in Twilight’s face. “What’s underneath!?!” She jumped away in hysterics.

Twilight wasn’t sure she wanted to answer that question. Yet, on some level, it did stir a strange rising heat from within as a shiver coursed up her spine. “Right... well… I guess next time we can try. H-how about we see how things go?”

The pink earth pony winked at the stuttering unicorn, then sat down on her haunches as she watched Twilight dry herself. As soon as the lavender unicorn was done, the puff ball was back at her side.

Pinkie put a hoof around her shoulders. “You know, that would call for a party.” She proceeded to bound out, heading to breakfast.

The two mares arrived for breakfast to find Celestia and the others already there. The only ponies who happened to be missing were Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, and Princess Luna.

“Morning girls, slept well I take it.” Rarity asked keenly.

Twilight blushed. “We weren’t doing what you’re thinking!”

“An’ what exactly do ya’ suppose we wa thinking there, gal.” The farmer shot the fashion artist an annoyed look. “Not all of us have a dirty mind, Rarity. You’re th’ one who was with Spike all night.” Her voice trailed off with a hint of venom in it.

A look of pure “Oh crap” overcame Twilight’s face.

“Hee hee! You girls are so silly!” Pinkie giggled, coming behind Twilight. She brought her forelegs around the unicorn’s neck and nestled her head on top, a massive grin etched across her face.

“Has Fluttershy come out of Rainbow’s room? Did you hear anything?” Twilight queried as she snuggled back against Pinkie. She wasn’t sure why, but the sweet embrace of her friend was strangely very warming and comforting, to the point that she just didn’t want her to let her go. It felt nice to know somepony who was willing to establish comforting physical contact when you needed it.

Rarity shook her head, looking grim. “I’m afraid not, dear. The last anypony has heard of them was when you saw them yesterday. I absolutely must bring her to my suite and make sure she gets a proper bath and grooming. The Princess had also decided to have a bed placed in Rainbow’s room so that Fluttershy will be able to sleep comfortably and not leave her side.”

Celestia nodded in agreement. “Staff continue to keep a close eye on them. Although Rainbow Dash’s condition is still unclear, her wounds are healing well.”

“And this coma?” Twilight asked.

“The doctor cannot guess when she will come out. But you all are welcome to see them both today.”

“Yay!” Pinkie cheered.

After breakfast, just as planned, Twilight and the group headed to the hospital wing of the castle. It didn’t take long to find Rainbow’s room, nor did they have a problem being allowed in.

When the group entered in, however, Fluttershy looked awful.

The normally bright and sunny creamy yellow pegasus looked shockingly downtrodden and ill-rested. It was like she had barely slept a wink the night before when her friends had enjoyed their own peaceful slumbers. Her mane was limp and even a bit messy, the feathers on her wings were ruffled and in need of preening, and her coat even seemed to have lost much of its lustre. The shy pony was slowly grooming a cyan wing, taking all the care in the world to make sure the feathers were all in line. It was as if everything she lived for, had passed on and the lonely mare wanted to follower after her lover.

When Fluttershy turned her head, her friends could tell she was troubled, despite this, she tried to smile nonetheless. “...Hello, Twilight. How are you girls doing?”

“I thought you said she didn’t look this bad.” The fashionista furiously whispered to her fellow unicorn.

“She didn’t…” replied a rather stumped Twilight in the quietest whisper she could manage.

However, everypony appeared to have heard the murmured exchange and an awkward silence took over for the moment.

Twilight decided to take charge and slowly approached the two shattered ponies before her. “I’m…fine…” she trailed off.

“Are you alright, darling!?!” cut in a rather shocked Rarity.

“I’m… I’m fine,” quietly replied Fluttershy as she turned her head away in shame. She knew her condition must look bad, but right now, the only thing that really mattered was the pony beside her.

“No yer not,” stated Applejack. “What’s wrong sugarcube? Please tell us. Ah don’t want to separate you from Dash here.”

The yellow pegasus let out a sigh. “I-I nightmares.” She squeezed her eyes shut tight. “I had a nightmare about griffins attacking us.” A sob escaped as she attempted to continue. “A-and Dashie didn’t make it.”

At this, her friends rushed to her side. Each pony did their best to comfort the wrecked pegasus.

“Dont’ worry, darling. We’re here for you,” comforted Rarity.

“Yea. Don’ you worry yer head about it, Fluttershy. Ah’m sure RD will be jus’ fine,” added Applejack.

“The Princess also said she is doing well,” added Twilight.

“Yea. Please perk up. I can’t stand a sad face.” Pinkie Pie did her best to smile an infectious smile.

“Thanks, girls,” the shy mare quietly thanked her friends. Their support had already done a great deal toward lifting her spirits out of the dumps. Now all she felt was the need for her fillyfriend to wake.

The small group of colourful ponies pulled away to give the shy mare her space in the already confined hospital ward.

“That’s what friends are for, right?” grinned the less than poofy, pink party pony.

“I guess,” Fluttershy responded with a slight smile of her own.

“How about we take care of Rainbow Dash for a moment while you take some time out to look after yourself, dear?” Rarity asked as she rubbed the back of the messed up pegasus.

“I… I don’t think I could leave her.” Eyes of love gazed at her heart’s delight.

“If you don’t, I will take care of you myself,” threatened Rarity. “Your mane is a tragedy and I’m sure you are in need of a shower.”

The pegasus at Dash’s side took a moment to glance at herself. Fluttershy noticed that she did indeed look as terrible as her she thought. A sigh escaped. “You’re right…”

“Don’t worry, Fluttershy. We will be sure to look after her while you’re getting cleaned up. Go on… we’re all here for the both of you.” Twilight encouraged from the foot of the double bed.

“Besides, you want to look your best for your special somepony when she wakes, don’t you?” Rarity chimed in again, motioning at the cyan form who lay as if sleeping.

Fluttershy nodded. After all, what would Dash think if she awoke to find her fillyfriend in worse condition than herself. She knew that would not go down well. Her ever loyal fillyfriend would want want-no demand she took care of herself.

The shy pony slowly rose from the bed and stretched. She hopped down and offered a hug of thanks to her supportive companions.

“Yay! Free hugs for everypony!” cried Pinkie Pie as she leapt to help form a group hug.

A fuzzy warm feeling entered the cold hospital atmosphere. It pushed out the the fear of Dash’s passing and calmed Fluttershy’s roughed up nerves. Although the tired mare wasn’t sure she was ready to leave her mate’s side, it was clear she had no choice. After all, this was the last day she had with the group as a whole before they went in search of the first of the griffin talismans.

Rarity accompanied the distraught pegasus as she left the hospital ward. The fashion artist was determined to see to it that Fluttershy would become presentable once more. With her charge in tow, she strode along the mighty hallways of Canterlot’s palace. First things first, she had to guide Fluttershy to her room to be groomed and cared for.

To think that her very best friend, her beloved, had nearly died trying to protect her. The scary prospect was all too much for Fluttershy.

As the refreshed and showed mare walked along beside one of her best friends, her mind unwillfully wandered. She wanted, no needed to get back to Rainbow’s side immediately. What if Dash woke up? What if she passed on? What if she were forever scarred inside? All these scenarios ran rampant in her head. She picked up the pace, and caused Rarity to hasten too in order to continue her role as guide.

The two quickly reached the now sparsely decorated breakfast table. There was one pony present, Princess Luna, who was quickly wolfing down her meal as if she had to be someplace twenty minutes ago.

“Princess Luna!” Rarity exclaimed, surprised. “...Are you all right?”

“We are fine.” The curt response cut through the air, as the alicorn continued her meal.

“Um… d-don’t mind us… I’m just getting something to eat… We… we won’t… bother you… your Highness...” Fluttershy managed in a shaky voice. “I have to get back to Rainbow soon, anyway...”

“It’s alright.” Luna sighed, almost faceplanting into her nearly finished meal. “We must attend to our duties now. We bid thee a good day.” Without another word she extracted herself from the table and walked off, rather stiff lipped, as if trying to contain an inner tornado of emotion.

Rarity watched her go, utterly perplexed. “It seems to me that she must have a problem going on… she seems quite upset and tense all of a sudden.”

Fluttershy giggled softly. “That sort of reminded me of... well me... when I thought Comet was dating Rainbow back at school.”

“Is that so?” Rarity looked at her friend curiously, a small smile stretching at her lips. “Hmm… I suppose it could be something of that calibre, then. After all, I have seen that look within many ponies!”

Without furthering the speculative conversation, Fluttershy took her seat at the table. After a few dainty bites she began digging in. The meal was AMAZING! She could feel its impact upon her system almost instantaneously as she quenched her hunger. It made the measly hospital meal the night before seem terrible and tiny in comparison. Eventually, she was devouring it at a rapid speed, uncaring of the impact upon her freshly washed coat. Speed was the goal and she was drawn on by one of the most astounding meals she had ever had.

The regal unicorn watched with wide eyes, utterly disgusted. “Fluttershy, really! You’re eating like Rainbow Dash! Slow down! It’s not going anywhere!”

“No... maybe not... But I do need to get back to Rainbow Dash...” The refreshed pegasus managed as she continued to eat at speed.

“Slow down, dear,” Rarity chided. “You’re going to make yourself sick.”

The yellow mare blushed, hiding behind a hoof, “sorry...” she murmured. She realised just how bad the sight must have been for her companion and mumbled a further “sorry…” under her breath.

The unicorn spotted her companion’s blush and took a slow breath that ended in a sigh. “It’s okay, dear. Just please... slow down for the rest of your meal.”

Fluttershy nodded solemnly and took a few last bites before she pushed her plate away, suddenly done with food. “P-please... Um... if you could be so kind as to show me back. I really do need to be at her side.”

“Of course, dear. Let me lead the way and we shall be back with the other girls before you know it.”

“Thank you, Rarity…” Fluttershy smiled shyly.

“You’re most welcome, young mare,” the posh unicorn replied with a smile. “Let’s get you back to your beloved.”

The pair made their way back to the hospital wing, where they rejoined the others who had waited patiently around the double bed.

The three other bedridden ponies in the ward were also awake at this point and smiled at the shy mare as she made her way in. It seemed everypony was happy to see her looking better.

“Hello, miss Fluttershy,” greeted Greymane. “It’s nice to see you looking better.”

“Ah’ll second that,” added Applejack.

“We’ve been watching over Rainbow Dash while you were away.” Twilight motioned to the comatose pegasus. “You haven’t missed anything.”

“Thank you.” Fluttershy smiled at her friends. Her gaze wandered nervously between the floor and their faces.

The small group of friends stood back to allow the timid mare easy access to her lover’s side. Fluttershy slowly made her way up onto the bed and lay close to her beloved, on her stomach. “Hello, my love...I’m back...I’m sorry to have left you. But I’m all right now, see? I’m all clean and I had something to eat...” She held the cyan hoof, gently rubbing her cheek against it. “I hope you didn’t miss me too much. But I’m here now... I’m back.”

“That’s soo cute!” Squeed Pinkie Pie as she leapt into the air. Streamers flew from her forelegs in her best attempt at dishing out some joy.

Fluttershy blushed and her mane fell acoros her face as the party pony grinned at the couple on the double hospital bed.

Pinkie nuzzled up to Twilight and lay a hoof over her shoulder. “Don’t they look so cute together?”

“They sure do,” agreed Applejack.

As Pinkie and Twilight scooted over and nestled together at left side of of the bed, the remaining earth pony couldn’t help but feel a little left out. The farmer kept her best happy face on as her gaze wandered between the two apparent couples in their small group. It seemed like everypony but her had found love. Even Rarity seemed to be leading Spike on a lot more than usual. At least, Applejack hoped her unicorn friend was just leading the young dragon on. But by now, she felt it would be no surprise if they were indeed more than what they appeared. If the dragon and his crush were together, her emerging crush upon the same mare would be sure to make her suffer.

The tough farmer zoned out as the other four began talking. The developing feelings for Rarity made her wonder. Had she really been uninterested in love untill now or was it her dedicated life on the farm that was to blame for never realising her feelings for Rarity? As her gaze continued to linger upon the alabaster unicorn, the left out earth pony began to wonder if she was now too late. Should she simply leave Spike and Rarity to each other? Or was it worth coming between them and potentially hurting everyone?

“....Fluttershy....” uttered the comatose pegasus.

Conversation in the room stopped. Applejack’s sappy train of thought derailed at high speed off a bridge and exploded somewhere below. All attention, even from the two other recovering parties in the room was now centred upon the pony who had spoken.

Aquamarine eyes lit up. “Rainbow!” Fluttershy scooted as close as she possibly could, almost sitting right over the inflicted mare.

Unfortunately, nothing further came from the bedridden daredevil. There was, however, slight movement from a blue left forehoof as it gently held her counterparts yellow one.

“Rainbow?” Fluttershy gently licked the cyan muzzle.

No response.

Fluttershy could feel her heart rate take a few steps up in speed. ‘Does this mean she’s almost ready to come back to me?’ She wondered, excited by the prospect.

“Does that mean I get to hold a party soon?” Excitement entered Pinkie Pie’s voice as she wondered aloud.

“Ah hope so, sugarcube,” replied Applejack with a smile.

“It would be wonderful to see her awake before we depart tomorrow,” added Rarity.

“The Princess needs to know about this,” stated a very hopeful sounding Twilight.

“Go on then, Twilight. We can keep Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash company while you report to her,” offered Rarity.

The Princess’s student didn’t need to be told twice and exited the room with a delighted stride.

Future Princess, Twilight Sparkle entered the throne room where she found Princess Luna sitting in place of Celestia. The occurrence from earlier that morning returned to Twilight’s mind, and she wondered what to expect. Would Luna be mad? Sad? Or pretend it didn’t happen?

“Um...Princess Luna...?”

“Hello, Twilight Sparkle.” The dead tone of the alicorn sounded out softly. Luna stared blankly down the long room as if the single mare was not there.

“Um....hello....” Twilight rubbed her foreleg nervously. Now what to do? “So...nice weather we’re having, huh? Yeah! Very nice day! Mmm-hmm!”

“Yes... loverly if I still had somepony to share the view with...” Luna bitterly trailed off.

“...Well, if you want somepony to share it with, I wouldn’t mind sitting with you,” Twilight offered, smiling nervously.

“Somepony special... However it seems we are too late, once again.” The lonely alicorn trailed off into sadness. Her view wistfully stitched to one of the nearby panes of glass to her left.

“...Too late? What do you mean?”

“We saw thee with thy marefriend, Twilight Sparkle. We-we...I understand… Nopony ever could love Nightmare Moon...” A tear hit the floor as the words hit Twilight’s ears.

“Princess Luna, I… oh...” Twilight cantered over to the lonesome pony and awkwardly put a hoof around the larger mare’s shoulders. “Princess, last night, I was apparently out of it due to being so tired and I apparently asked Pinkie Pie to stay with me for the night. Companionship, I guess.... And she was with me when I woke up. I swear, nothing happened.” Twilight caught herself before she trailed off into stuttering. “And that’s just silly, Luna… you’re a wonderful pony. You’re not Nightmare Moon anymore. You’re you, Luna, the Princess of the Night.”

A loud sniff rang out across the room as the princess did her best to contain her sorrow. “Yes... and so few enjoy my night...”

“Are you kidding? Times have changed! There are so many ponies who are awake for the night! Night jobs, night clubs, all kinds of nighttime activities occur all across Equestria! Everypony has an appreciation for night time, Princess… Especially me,” Twilight assured her.

A cheeky smile formed across the larger mare’s face. “Well I guess... most ponies do take to lovemaking under our night,” Luna tentatively glanced across to her crush.

“Well, yeah, I guess they would.” Twilight shrugged a bit. “And let’s not forget astronomy! So many ponies out there love to sit there with their telescopes and study the stars and all the distant planets! That’s by far one of the best aspects of the night!”

“...Like you...” The publicly shy alicorn smiled at the young unicorn by her side. She restrained her desire to envelop the lavender mare in a winged hug.

Twilight giggled and nodded, “Guilty as charged! I do that a lot! I’ve loved it, ever since I got my first telescope as a filly!”

“We have seen you many a night. Thou looks amazing, sitting there, shining in my moonlight, gazing up at our sky.” Night blue wings began to peak outwards.

Twilight glanced away bashfully, a blush across her deep purple muzzle. “You’re really sweet to say that, Princess... I do really enjoy the night. I’ve studied the constellations of the stars for years… and it’s all so fascinating. And well, ever since you were saved… I think the nighttime is a lot more beautiful and enchanting than it ever was. I think a lot of ponies agree.”

Luna almost cried out in happiness at the unexpected compliments. All she could wish for now was to wrap the mare next to her up in a big hug and take her flying into the night sky. Even though it was only the middle of the day, barely reaching the afternoon.

Twilight however, answered that wish for her with a warm hug.

The alicorn of the night hugged back, her wings slowly unfurled and found their places upon the soft lavender coat of the pony she knew she would never be able to call her own. Although she knew the annoying, pink party pony had already won Twilight’s heart, Luna was delighted in the contact she currently shared. She wished it could last forever, or at least for the rest of the day. As the mighty alicorn gave into her desires, salty tears of joy and sadness leaked from her eyes and fell upon the mane of the pony she was hugging.

A warm feeling encased Twilight as she reveled in the comfort of Luna’s embrace. She was warm and smelled like a beautiful spring night, with a tint of some wild flowers. She giggled and nuzzled the alicorn’s neck gently. Her heart pounded, muscles clenched and relaxed, and spine raked with shivers. Once again Twilight felt an immense heavenly comfort in being within somepony’s embrace that she liked. For some reason, being cuddled by Luna felt warmer than any blanket. She also felt a deep sense of security, just like the hugs she could remember from her parents when she was a filly.

A sad jolt zapped her heart as she realized she couldn’t possibly decide which hug she liked more. Pinkie’s or Luna’s. Both of them were wonderful, but it was hard to decide which one was better. Twilight wasn’t even sure it was a choice she could make.

Luna seemed to sense her indecisiveness and pulled away blushing. “We are sorry, Twilight.”

“No no, it’s okay, Luna... I was the one who hugged you first,” Twilight said sheepishly. “...You’re really cozy.”

“Thank’e kindly, Twilight. We...” The saddened alicorn rubbed her hoof against the back of her head, ruffling her light blue mane, unsure how to continue.

“You...what?” Twilight looked at her quizzically.

“We must bid thee good bye for now... We hope to know thy heart's desire soon.” The downhearted, but not defeated alicorn trotted off, her light night blue tail swayed from side to side enticingly as she wandered along. The way she did it, Twilight felt like the motions were on purpose as if to-

“...S-Sure....” Twilight felt a sudden rush of intense heat pool inside at the sight as the royal tail lifted ever so slightly as Luna left the room.

Twilight felt like an utter louse. It was all she could think about as she settled in the palace library, trying to make sense of everything.

While her friends had welcomed her back after she eventually found Celestia, Twilight could not rid herself of thoughts of what it would be like doing things with the princess of the night. All kinds of things. Everything from reading to romantic flights, providing Luna was strong enough to carry two ponies, to nocturnal activities for two.

Then there was Pinkie Pie. The party pony had somehow decorated the whole ward by her return. Streamers all the colours of the rainbow lined the walls while little balloons that spelt the words ‘get well soon’ hung above the bed. The party pony seemed to have clued onto the internal battle Twilight was faced with and did her best to help swing the battle in her own favour. While the group of friends spent their afternoon enjoying each other’s company, Pinkie had continued to stick close and offer all the warm, distracting fuzzes she could. No matter how hard Twilight tried, her wonderful, crazy companion never left her side.

She supposed they must have looked to all like the mirror image of Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash. inseparable. She felt loved and cared for, just as Dash was sure to.

Now, that afternoon of friendship was over and the scholar was by herself. The cold had settled in for the night here in the library. The moon had done so too. Yet despite the chill and the lowering of the candle wick, the bookworm refused to leave.

She tried hard to read, but at every second, all that crossed her mind were the saddened looks on the faces of Princess Luna and Pinkie Pie.

'Very nice, Twilight Sparkle. You're a smart and studious unicorn, the personal student of Princess Celestia, you study friendship...and now this happens! Where did I go wrong? What do they see in me? In ME? All I seem to be doing is breaking their hearts. Especially Pinkie... All she's trying to do is be as sweet as can be, she's being Pinkie, just with an extra dose of all that lovey dovey aspect. And she KISSED me! ...And boy I liked it... Really liked it. I liked it so much that I almost just want to kiss her myself! But then there's Princess Luna... She's amazing, and such an interesting friend... And she's very warm...' A bubbly sensation passed though Twilight as she remembered the perfect sensation of warmth and safety that accompanied the touch of the princess.

“Oh, I can't choose!! I don't even know what to do!” Twilight yelled, her head fell upon the table with a loud thud. “...At least Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy have it easy…” she muttered.

At this point, despite the circumstantial tragedy, she couldn’t help but envy them. Even with, according to her friends, long before she moved to Ponyville herself, the uncertainty they’d had in how the other felt, there was definitely no uncertainty in the fact that they loved each other. No second guesses, no other parties, nothing.

By now Twilight wished she had that kind of luck. That sort of good fortune that would never come at the expenses of her friends. The future princess sighed. She felt defeated. It was impossible to decide on either mare, especially when both Luna and Pinkie were trying to help decide her too.

“Okay... let’s weigh the options! First, Pinkie. She can be random, silly, overbearing, frustrating, strange, talks in non-sequiturs, doesn’t pay attention sometimes, jumps around, has too much energy for me, and doesn’t always take things seriously,” she sighed, looking disgruntled. But she smiled a bit. “Then again, she’s very sweet, a good listener, always likes to make everypony happy, considerate, sensitive to other pony’s feelings, very insightful when she wants to be, helpful, caring... Yeah, she really is a great pony. The way she managed to handle my...well, sort-of-not-so-rejection was actually very mature, even if she was a bit upset. But I guess I can’t blame her for that, either. I know I would be! And she makes me laugh like nopony ever has. Her energy can be a good thing too I guess… Not to mention, the Cakes seem to see a lot in her, and she does excellent work at Sugarcube Corner. I love her baked goods! Mm-mm! I don’t know... I’d love to give her a chance, I would! But what about Princess Luna?” The young unicorn paused as she noted each point down on a handy piece of paper.

“Right, now Luna! Let’s see... Luna... Well she’s socially awkward like me. She shares my love for the night and stars, hay, she owns the night... but she’s immortal and I'm not. That’s definitely a downer… I mean, one day I’m going to get old… and then I’ll die… and she’ll still be alive and have to face going on, and even one day starting the process all over again, with the pain of losing her loved ones plaguing her. Where was I? Right! Well she’s really smart, knows where I’m coming from when I talk about all the interesting things I learned, and she’s curious like I am, so there’s that... Okay, okay, let’s be fair; cons. Again there’s the immortality issue, she’s a princess… Just like me now I guess. I live in Ponyville while she’s here, we won’t always have time to date, and… maybe we’re a little too alike.” This thought worried her a bit. “What if we end up getting bored? What if there’s no balance?”

Once more, Twilight let her head fall onto the table, this time on the open page of her book.

“How am I ever going to decide!?! They’re both great in their own ways and I really like both of them!”

The lone unicorn allowed silence to return to the library. Only the sound of one pony’s breathing continued to disrupt the otherwise perfect serenity of one of Twilight’s favorite places.

“Pinkie… She’d be a great fillyfriend. I hope she does find somepony... even if it’s not me… It would be nice if it were me… But why does that bother me so much? I just want her to be happy!”

The lavender unicorn sighed heavily, she stared blankly at her book, none of its words registered as her eyes traveled across the text upon the old paper.

“And then there’s Luna. Of course, her eventually moving on and maybe or maybe not finding somepony else is pretty much a given, isn’t it?” Twilight laughed humourlessly, before letting her head fall again. “But… maybe it’s not. What am I going to do?!”

Getting some advice about this was about the only option she had. But who to go to? Princess Celestia was definitely a favourable option what with how wise and kind she was, especially in the fact that she was her teacher, and even a surrogate mother. But that also left the fact that she was Luna’s sister. That was already looking to be an awkward conversation.

Twilight turned her attention back to the book in front of her and once again tried to lose herself in it. Several minutes of fighting with her unwilling mind later, she wound up slamming it shut.

“That’s it. I need to go talk to somepony...”

Twilight forced herself up, and slowly walked out of the library frustrated. She needed to talk to somepony, anypony. Well... anypony other than the two who were currently questing for her heart.

Deep in thought, she wandered along the hallways of the palace. Hoof steps rang out loudly in the darkened spaces as she clopped along. ‘If only I knew who to talk to. Not Pinkie, I don’t want to break her heart again. Not Luna, just... no. I don’t think I want to ask Celestia either... she seemed to be in on Luna’s secret.’ The last point made Twilight uncomfortable. ‘How long had her teacher known about her sister’s crush? Maybe her parents could help?’

Crash!

Twilight found herself sprawled on the ground, her limbs mixed with a dark blue mare with a silky blue mane that seemed to bare the starts of the night sky.

“Luna!” She cried, jumping up.

This was not somepony she wanted to see right now.

“Twilight Sparkle,” Luna responded in a formal matter. “We do apologize, we had not been paying attention to our surroundings. Art thou all right?”

“Y-yes. Um... hello, Princess. Um...what are you doing here?” She nervously asked.

An amused smile overcame the darker mare’s face, “why, we live here, silly. But if thou must know, we were merely heading to hold night court.”

“Oh. Right. Well... um... good luck with that.” Twilight smiled nervously at the alicorn before her.

“Thank you, Twilight Sparkle.” A smile remained on Luna’s lips, despite the sadness in her eyes. “We shall see you later then. Have a good day,” she proceeded to walk off.

Twilight found her gaze lingering upon the receding flank as the saddened night alicorn wandered along. ‘I guess you have a good flank too... Wait! Why am I even thinking that!?!’

Eventually, the confused unicorn made it to the lounge, hoping maybe to get a little reprieve. But much to her surprise, in the room sat none other than a cheerful Pinkie and Rarity, who were currently playing some late night chess.

“And... check!” The pink earth pony declared with glee, grinning at Rarity.

“Mmm...check, is it? Well...no longer!” Rarity smirked, knocking off one of the pieces with her Queen. “Take that!”

“How did I not see that!?!” Pinkie nearly exploded.

Rarity gave a giggle, “Well, chess is all about strategy, darling.” She looked to see Twilight, and smiled. “Why hello, Twilight!”

“Oh. Hi, Twi-Twi!” Pinkie waved at her as well, greeting her.

Twilight rose an eyebrow. She couldn’t believe that Pinkie was actually greeting her with genuine cheerfulness. At the same time, she smiled warmly, glad to see that there were no hard feelings. ‘There she is...that’s the Pinkie I know and love! ….Wait, what? Okay, focus, Twilight!’ “Hi, girls!”

Canterlot Palace, Hallways

Princess Luna could feel the somber tug of her moon as it hung in the night sky far above. It felt silent and brooding, a mirror of her own emotions. The gentle clop, clop of her hoofsteps rang out all too loud for the princess’s own liking as she trudged onwards through the otherwise silent hallways of the castle. Although she had told her crush of the night court, she was in fact headed in another direction entirely. Her true destination: a room normally ventured into only when pranks or secret meetings were in order. This was not one of those times.

The good thing about this part of the castle was the lack of other ponies. It was peaceful and quiet. As Luna made her way to her sister’s bedroom, she passed only a hoofful of guards the whole time. The lack of anypony to talk to had long since allowed her mind to wander back to the young mare who dominated her thoughts ever since she had entered her life; Twilight.

That mare was more beautiful on both the inside and out than any other pony she had ever met. Luna could hardly believe that no pony had ever asked the future princess out, yet she found herself wishing that trend had continued long enough for her to begin courtship with Twilight. Misty eyes fell out of focus as the dreamy alicorn pictured her crush. She envisioned what the cute unicorn would look like if she were to walk alongside her in these never-ending stone tunnels. Her perfect purple mane would sway from side to side ever so slightly as they trotted along together. Twilight and Luna, two princesses, together, happy and in love. They could laugh and talk, sing and snuggle together. Things that only two lovers could do together would be conducted under her own night sky. ‘Twould certainly be the happiest days of our lives.’

Time passed the long-lived alicorn by like the water of a calm stream. It was truly peaceful to be alone. Here Luna had found a place she could at least pretend she lived in a world where Twilight loved her back.

She closed her eyes shut as tight as they may go. Moisture welled up behind the two lids as the torment of reality set in once more.

A loud smack rang out as Luna’s muzzle rammed into the ornate door of her sister’s bedroom. Stars briefly twinkled and birds sang as her brain reeled over the impact. The princess briefly wondered if what she was about to do was a smart idea or not. Before she could debate the merits of entrance into her sister’s room, a voice called out.

“Come in.” The kind tone of the ruler of Equestria caused Luna to jump.

She wondered why her sibling may still be awake at such a late hour. Maybe she was stuck on some paper work. Or maybe her older sister had heard from Twilight and had them both on her mind.

“Is anypony there?” Celestia’s voice carried an almost foallike curiosity to it as it reached the ears of the thoughtful alicorn who remained frozen in thought.

“We…” Luna paused. “There is something we wish to discuss with thee sister.”

A warm light enveloped the doors and they opened slowly to reveal the white winged mare. She stood tall and noble at her window, a surveyor of what she owned. Celestia had her head turned to face her unexpected guest.

“Hello, Luna. Tis a wonderful night, is it not?” The gaze of the mighty alicorn turned outward once more.

“Why… yes,” the younger alicorn replied as deep blue hooves guided her to her sister’s side. “But we fear that such nights may become scarce soon.”

“Of that I am certain,” agreed Celestia soberly. “But I ask that you continue to paint your night with as much love as you can.”

“But, what is the point?” wondered Luna aloud. After all, what was the point of showing off her artwork each night if Twilight belonged to somepony else?

“To give all my little ponies hope in this hard time.” Celestia’s reply brought out a sad smile on the younger mare’s muzzle.

The two sisters shared a moment in peaceful silence. Suddenly, a sigh of defeat escaped into the cold night. A dark blue chin fell gently upon the window sill as glazed cyan-green eyes gazed listlessly out across the land. “Alas, we fear it will be all for naught. Thy student clearly loves Laughter more than Nightmare Moon.” A suppressed tear escaped and ran down the dark muzzle of its owner. Luna closed her eyes, ashamed of her herself.

A warm peace fell upon the lonesome princess. The equally toasty side of her sister impacted softly with her own and Luna realised the warmth came from a massive wing. She smiled in thanks as the pure white feathers continued to warm her cold heart.

“My dear sister… you are no longer nightmare moon.” The soft tone of her sister’s calm voice was like a barrier that fell between night mare and her sadness.

Luna turned to face her older sister and failed to stifle a sniffle as she gazed into the large kind eyes. “How can thou be certain?”

Celestia tightened her hold on the highly emotional mare she was comforting. “Because I know you are not her. You are my sister and I love you just the way you are.”

The tearful alicorn gave her sister a thankful nuzzle as the kind words continued to reverberate around her brain.

Before Luna could voice her thanks, her sister continued to speak, her voice soft in the quiet of the night. “I’m sure Twilight does hold you dear in her heart, just as I do. While she may see you as simply a friend, there is hope that she will see you as something more.” Celestia smiled down at her sister with such confidence that Luna felt her heart soar with hope. Hope, that she was not alone. Hope, that she might be loved after all and that she was special to somepony. A small fire rekindled its light inside her as the older alicorn continued to hold the night blue mare in a comforting embrace.

After an untold period of time passed like water under an old bridge, Luna found her voice. “So... does this mean... we may go with thy student on her quest?”

“No.” Celestia’s reply dampened the fire inside Luna so fast she scarcely knew it even existed. “If you go with Twilight, more than just my little ponies are sure to realize one of the sisters are missing. The enemy is will to know we seek the griffin elements. It will also place unnecessary pressure upon Twilight to arrive to a decision. Please, stay.”

Luna sighed. Her sister was most likely right. The only problem it presented was that her absence would leave her crush alone with the other contender for the scholar's heart. That fact did not sit well with the lovesick mare. She was willing to bet anything that Pinkie would make the most of their time away. The two may even return as a couple. Luna’s heart sank like a rock into the deep blue sea at the dreaded thought of such failure. The emotional boulders that followed brought her nigh, to the realm of heartbreak and left her there alone. How could she go on knowing her love was with somepony else? How did ponies survive such heartbreak? luna guessed the time for her ancient heart to find out was soon to come.

She broke contact with her sister and turned to the door in defeat. “We... must go. We need time to think.”

“I understand,” Celestia replied in a somber tone. The ruler of Equestria made no move to pull her clearly saddened sister back. Maybe it was because she believed the time to think would help. Maybe it was because her sister had gathered all she could from the moment they shared. Or, most likely, it was because on some level, she could feel her sisters pain. It was hard to recover the loss of a loved special somepony. The loss of her lover and foal had left a hole inside that could never be filled by anything else. She supposed it was the price paid for longevity. Celestia slowly nodded one last time to her fellow ruler who had briefly turned to glance back.

With permission to leave, the lunar alicorn left, head low. This was sure to be a long night. Luna knew little sleep would be found in her bed, yet she trouped off in search of it none the less.

Above canterlot, the deep night sky appeared to lose some of its glorious shine as it shifted to match the artists dour mood. Stars flickered and tingled as the feeling spread outward like a ripple. The fleeting disturbance settled as the sky dimmed ever so slightly.

Although the outlook for the night was bleak, hope endured. Tomorrow was sure to be another day. A better day. A day in which a small group of ponies hoped to be reunited with their daring friend before the start of their quest. A day Fluttershy wished once again to have her Rainbow Dash returned to her.

Chapter Seventeen: Shock Waves

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Chapter Eighteen: As the Hour Grows Late

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Chapter Ninteen: Growing Fires

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Chapter Twenty: The Cover Of Darkness

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Chapter 21: Wake of Darkness

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Chapter 22: Shaking the Nest

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Chapter 23: Shockwaves

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Chapter 24: The Sun Sets

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Chapter 25: Moonlight

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Chapter 26: Wake

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Chapter One: The Bonds Begin

Canterlot throne room.

The late afternoon sun illuminated Eight royal griffins who sat in front of Princess Celestia’s throne. The eight bore themselves tall and proud, each as regal and commanding as the alicorn they surrounded. In the deafening silence they stood, the air like an impending storm and none there dared break it. Despite the lack of support, Celestia felt safe in the presence of the carnivorous sky dwellers.

“Welcome, Griffin representatives.” Celestia said with calm sincerity. “I invite you to speak as freely as you wish. Please, do tell me what ails you, and I shall listen. It has been many a year since I was last graced with your presence and as I’m sure you know, I am delighted by your presence here today.”

Chief Grandeur stepped forward. Not only did this griffin wear a small crown to show he was the leader of the council, but he also appeared well built from years of fighting. The scars on his face and sides made that last part clear enough. He was a keen, ruthless ruler in both stature and intelligence.

“We here have come to bid thee greeting Princess.” The mighty griffin paused for a moment for added effect. “My fellow council griffins and I have asked to meet with you regarding the treaty between our two species.”

A look of mild surprise filled Celestia’s face. “Oh... I remember our treaty. Please go on.”

Chief Grandeur stood as if in thought for a few moments before he replied. “The council and I have decided that with our two aging empires we should attempt to rebuild the strong bounds we once shared.”

“That does indeed sounds like a sensible idea,” relied Celestia with a slow nod of her head. “Yet I sense this is not the only matter you wish to speak to me about.”

“It is indeed.” The chief replied with the beginnings of a smug look upon his face. “But I would like to send my daughter as my species selected student. You have a few weeks to find a young foal from your own kingdom to send as the exchange student. It might be a stepping stone to greater things between us.”

At his words, the other council members glanced at one other in surprise. Clearly this was an unexpected turn of events for them, though none were bold enough to stand their leader up over it.

For the first time since the group had walked in, Celestia regarded them a careful glance. She had no idea what their leader had in store. He was turning out to be more than just the regular violent griffin councilor.

Celestia hoped that maybe this griffin’s daughter had wished to be the one to travel to Equestria. Because if so, such a griffin could give her a chance to show just how kind and caring all ponyfolk were. Maybe for the first time in well over a thousand years she would have the chance to show the griffins a better way of life. “Well I for one agree with you so far. I would be happy to find out who is willing to travel to your lands. I trust your kingdom is where it has always been?”

“That it is,” confirmed Chief Grandeur. “And my chick Gilda is quite eager to see your Equestria. So please don’t delay for too long.”

“That does sound promising.” Celestia allowed a smile to escape onto her lips, there sure did sound like there was hope for a better connection between the two species.

Chief Grandeur stepped forward as if to further intrude upon the princess’s personal space. He flicked his wings as if ready for action as he slowly but surely advanced upon the lone mare in front of him. He knew what he had to say next would rip the smile right off her muzzle. And he knew he would enjoy every moment of it.

“Celestia. We feel the treaty is breaking up. Not just some minor threat that you can cover like your other problems. It is nearing a time for change in leadership, we need somepony who will listen to us... and not just us. There are other creatures out there too. What happened to your Zebra friends? Or the old alliance with the dragon folk? Or even the changeling problem? All factors point to thou... the ruler of Equestria.” The powerful griffin’s talons drummed a steady, impatient beat upon the stonework under claw as he talked.

Before Celestia could answer, one of the other elders in the small group of griffins spoke up to add further detail to his leader’s point. “Yea. You’ve held the throne for thousands of years...and all by yourself too I might add. That’s a lot of power for one pony to hold in their hooves. Too much.” This caused a murmur of agreement to ripple through the group.

“It was not of choice, Griffin Elders.” Celestia’s voice became stony, yet somehow still remained it’s calm. “I had to do so for the good of my subjects and Equestria. However, that is not of this topic. I wish to know in what way I am denying the treaty and what can be done to remedy the problem. I have negotiated with the dragons and have obtained one of their eggs. It recently hatched for one of my pupils too.”

“What you can do is step down before we are forced to resort to more... extreme measures...” The calm tone of the lead griffin held nothing but contempt for the alicorn in front of him. “We feel we can not do business with your kind like we used to. Don’t you notice a distinct lack of interaction between pony kind and all the others who dwell both inside and outside Equestria’s borders.

Celestia regarded the Griffin Leader with calm, curious eyes. “While I have noticed this lack of contact and I miss it, It would not be suitable for me to remove myself from my current position. Why do you believe it be best that I abdicate the throne as the Princess of the Day, Chief Grandeur? Please, explain.”

With a cunning grin upon his face, he gladly obliged her, kneading the stone underclaw with pleasure as he delivered his message.  “Your ponies are weak and poorly managed. Friendship is magic you say...yet I remember the stories of the days of yore when we relied upon our mighty armies to survive. I’m sure you remember the days of my forebears... the everlasting days of Warbeak. Or the times when the divided pony tribes each had their own armies to match our own. Equestria is not just the nice place you paint it to be. Out where you little fillies do not venture is a dangerous land. It creeps closer slowly, beyond the border. To both our land and yours. Yet you do not take action. We feel that your interests have turned inward from your empire to yourself.”

This did raise an interesting point Celestia had not quite thought of, and nodded. “I see. Your reasonings are not entirely off the mark, Chief Grandeur. I understand your intentions and I do not fault you for the way you perceive this. There was indeed a time, before the founding of Equestria and even times thereafter in which wars raged upon ponies and other sentient inhabitants of the world. We are indeed none prepared for such invasions and wars, that indeed is true. However, times have changed no such occurrences have come to be in over a thousand years. There is no need to worry of such matters, and the times of war training have passed. It is an old practice that of which very few ponies alive even know.”

The soft clack clack of claws on stone was the only sound in the room for a few moments as the wise griffin contemplated his move. “What of this impending arrival of your sister from her moon prison I hear of? How will your little ponies defend themselves from her? We all know she houses a great deal of...dislike for you.”

“How my sister feels of me is her own business...however that may be. We also have the Elements of Harmony to defend Equestria should any kind of danger befall it.” Celestia spoke calmly, though with an edge in her tone. “The Elements bring upon the power of friendship and overcomes true evil.”

“But thou haven't wielded such items since her disappearance. This leaves more allies than just us wondering if you are still capable of utilizing such items of power yourself. We can’t afford such objects to fall into the wrong hooves.”

The royal alicorn gave a curt nod. “That much is true. I nor my sister are no longer connected to the Elements. They must be awakened by the new wielders should the time come. Whoever those ponies might be. Thankfully as of yet, there has been no need for the elements of harmony.” She glanced out the window for a brief moment before turning her attention back to the griffins. “I understand you may not trust nor believe my judgement, but I hope you will at least see my reasoning.”

A younger griffin stepped forth, unable to contain himself any longer within the bounds of the proceedings. “What if we all do not? You have grown old Celestia. It is time for a change... just like the tales of when your parents stepped down to allow you to rule. Such a time has come again.”

This made Celestia stand from her throne, regarding the Griffins with a calm, cool expression. “It is true that I have ruled Equestria as the Princess of the Day for many a time, and the past thousand years was done so by myself. I raise the sun and the moon. It is not something I am incapable of. Such a day in which both I and my sister will pass down a successor has not yet come to pass.”

“Do you have...foals...? Young to pass your throne to?” The grand master of the griffins once again spoke, highly interested in the alicorn’s answer.

The Princess of the Sun shook her head slowly, as if there were a deep sadness within that she refused to acknowledge or dwell upon. “I do not have any offspring to speak of. At least none of whom are still with me... I have only my young student, Twilight Sparkle. She is some way off becoming a fully grown mare, let alone one who is sufficient to take my place.”

“It would appear you have not planned for certain...unfortunate events... Is this...student... worthy to take the throne, should you pass on?” Pressed Chief Grandeur, his cruel voice unveiling some small portion of his dislike for the kind ruler of ponykind.

Without hesitation, the grand alicorn responded, “I have sensed a great power and potential within her. She will know of it when she’s truly ready. Though she is still a filly, time and again, my faithful student has proven her worth.”

“Then we respectfully request that you prepare your prodigy for all outcomes. You used to have everything covered...” Chief Grandeur waved a dismissive claw at the alicorn, “but now we fear you are not who you once were.” He slowly turned to lead his fellow council members off, prepared for one last parting comment.

For a moment, Celestia would have refused, but paused a moment to think it over. While the training and knowledge of war may have been outdated and no longer needed, perhaps there would be room to at least inform Twilight of it to a certain level. She looked up toward the Griffins, and gave a single, curt nod.

“Very well. I shall heed your request and see that my faithful student learn the ways of war.” She stated simply.

“It’s not just that Celestia... Should our longest standing ally fade, we need somepony strong who can rule. Both on the fields of death and glory and in her kingdom at home. Since you refuse to allow others to govern alongside yourself, we require that you prepare your special student for when their time comes.” The lordly griffin began to strut out.

“...I do dare say that I cannot argue with that.” Celestia replied calmly as she slowly rested upon her throne.

“A queen needs her king... such a shame you never found that... I would so like to deal with a more practical thinking leader.” He grinned a cruel beaky grin back at the lone princess.

Celestia frowned, but made no response to that remark. “Unless there is anything else, you are dismissed, Chief Grandeur. As are the rest of you. I shall take as you said into consideration.”

“Then I take it the treaty is still on for now...?” Chief Grandeur continued to grin at the lone alicorn, wings quivering in anticipation.

“Yes. It is.” Nodded the Sun Princess. “Of course our treaty still stands.”

“Delightful... I shall send my chick in a few weeks time. You have till then to sort your side of the bargain out.” With his parting comment, he departed, delegates in tow.

In the quiet of her throne room, Celestia sat back with a sigh. “I did almost have a king once... when I was young... It’s my fault he’s gone. But I somehow doubt that he would match your vision of a practical thinking leader.” A light smile played across the princess’s muzzle at her final comment. It took little effort for her to suppress the tears. It had been over two thousand years since she had been forced to seal away the one she had loved. The one who had helped banish Warbeak. Since that time long ago, she had learned to move on, despite the small reminder of her past love.

Cloudsdale, the outskirts.

Two fillies played together on the clouds without a care in the world. The smaller athletic filly dashed off, out in front and her companion followed to the best of her somewhat less athletic abilities. They leapt from cloud to cloud, laughter and cries of joy rent the air as they did so. After a while Dash smirked at her companion. She ground to a halt and allowed the surprised yellow filly to smack into her.

As they lay in a heap together, with grins that matched the others’ bright smiling muzzle, they stared into each others eyes. Young eyes that shone like the first summer sun. Nothing else in Equestria mattered at the moment. The lanky, taller filly of the two, a creamy yellow pegasus, reached up to gently touch the cheek of the other filly. A cyan pegasus with a wild rainbow mane, serving a stark contrast to the yellow filly’s light pink mane. Teal eyes meet magenta, both sets of lips still curved into sweet smiles.

The cyan filly lay on top of her yellow companion, happy to remain nestled in a heap, a warm, loving embrace.

“Hey Fluttershy. Are we friends?”

The yellow filly’s face lit up at the offer. “Yes!” Her soft voice almost cracked with joy as a squee of glee escaped her and she hugged the smaller filly on top energetically.

With a bright smile, she nuzzled the other filly’s nose. “Friends forever?” Tentatively asked Fluttershy.

“Forever.” Dash confirms, hugging her friend back. For once, this cyan speedster did not care who might be watching, or that she was doing something ‘uncool’ and sappy.

Tears pooling in her eyes, Fluttershy continued her strong but still gentle hold on the smaller filly in her hooves. She nuzzled the colorful, messy mane, loving its soft feel, giggles escaped her as she relished the moment.

When Rainbow Dash looked to her again with a big grin, Fluttershy beamed as well before leaning in to kiss her on the cheek, then the other cheek, nose, and forehead. “Yay!” The shy filly cheers.

“Gotcha!!” Rainbow Dash yelled out happily as she tackled her filly.

“Noooooo!!!” Fluttershy squealed as was she found herself knocked to the cloud ground, giggling madly, “Not again, Dashie! Let me go!” The pair roll around in the mid day sun with not a care in the world, enjoying each others contact.

“Never!” Dash laughed, tickling her sides with her hooves.

“Nooooooo!!!” Laughed a squealing Fluttershy, giggling and wiggling beneath her. “S-Stop! I surrender!! Hee hee!”

“Then say it! Say I’m the best!”

“You’re...you’re the best! The best in Equestria!”

“Now you’re talking!” Dash laughed triumphantly. She licked her companion’s cheek. Happy in her success, the bold filly extracted herself from her larger friend.

“Well well well, if it isn’t Fluttercry her fillyfriend Rainbow Crash!”

The two turned to see none other than the two regular bullies they dealt with just about every day. It was no secret that the two fillies were indeed social outcasts among their peers, given that Rainbow Dash was a daredevil troublemaker, and Fluttershy was a weak flyer and very shy. In all, they really had only each other to count on.

Said spectrum maned filly immediately leapt into a defensive stance. “I’m not her fillyfriend!” Rainbow Dash glared at the pair who had just insulted the coolest pegasus ever.

Hoops and Billy, the two bully pegasi colts, simply sneered at the pair as they prepared for further insults. The duo wander forward, seemingly unable to notice the brilliance of Celestia’s day. Instead they snickered as shy yellow filly hid behind her daring cyan protector.

“What’s the matter, Klutzershy? Gonna cry? You’re gonna cry?” Billy jeered as further laughter burst from the rude colt.

“Yeah, I bet she’s gonna whine and cry like a big foal!” Hoops nudged his friend. He laughed as if he had just made a hysterical joke.

“HEY! You leave her alone!” Dash snarled with anger, pawing at the cloud beneath her.

“Or what, Rainbow Crash?” Taunted Billy. “What are you gonna do about it?”

“Keep making fun of her and find out!” Dash took a step forward, “If you mess with Fluttershy, you’re going to PAY!”

Whimpering, Fluttershy continued to hide behind her defender. She shook with fear and distress. Despite the angry filly being smaller than herself she still managed to use the rainbow-maned pegasus as a living wall of defense. Dash stood protectively in front of her friend, not one to allow the bullies to get an inch.

“All right, Rainbow Crash...here’s the deal. We challenge you to a race!” Hoops said, stepping toward her with a sneer.

“You’re on!” Rainbow replied. Here was one decision that certainly did not require a second thought.

All that mattered was that she could defend her friend from the bullies who had plagued them day in and day out for what seemed like forever.

The small group quickly found their way to the start line of the school’s racetrack. Alongside their enemies, Rainbow Dash was ready. Ready to win this race, ready to defend her best friend's honor. She grinned and slowly licked her lips. Young Rainbow Dash could already taste victory.

It tasted quite good.

Fluttershy waved the flag with a timid motion. The speedy youngsters took off. Dash blazed past her timid friend, knocking her off her small cloud as the determined filly flew toward victory.

Fluttershy fell toward the ground below, screaming. But nopony could hear or see what had happened or stop the imminent impact with the ground. The vertigo was getting to her greatly, the wind drafted, everything around her fell lower and lower as she went.

This was it, her young life would be over, no cutie mark, no purpose. She hadn’t even found somepony special to love. Rainbow Dash would probably win this race, but wouldn't have anypony to share it with. This scared her even more. If she died, then Rainbow would all alone! She couldn't abandon her best friend like this! But what else could she do? She couldn't fly to save herself, and nopony noticed what happened.  As tears begun to pool in her eyes she readied herself for the inevitable end. She closed her eyes, limbs flailing desperately yet uselessly in the wind.

No such rude cut off happened. The frightened filly opened her eyes to find she was perched upon a small swarm of butterflies.

They surprisingly had the strength to hold up a filly her size. Yet it didn’t matter, because this was an amazing moment she never would have even dreamt was possible. Not only was her life saved, but the youngster found herself in a whole new environment.

The ground below.

Growing up as a filly in Cloudsdale who couldn’t fly, she was told to be very careful to not fall off the clouds and crash-land on the hard ground below. But now, here she was, closer to the ground than she ever had been. It was more than just an ant-sized expansive wonderland. It was a real place, far beyond the clouds, with so much to see, so much to offer!

And she owed it all to the Pegasus Race.

Fluttershy was gently set upon the ground on some grass, to which she eagerly allowed herself to recline upon the surprisingly soft surface. All around her were sweet woodland creatures, which studied her curiously as they gathered. Amazed, she beamed at them in awe, unable to believe that here she was able to see all kinds of wonderful animals! She’d only ever read about them in books! But now here she was, on the ground, close to all kinds of creatures.

“Wow! What a place filled with so many wonders!” She gushed, taking it all in. “The sights, the smells, they’re everywhere and all around! I never felt so good before! This empty place inside of me is filling up, I can't get enough of it! I want it, oh yes, I want it! If I'd had known that I was missing all of this here on the ground.... I would have come sooner and never left!”

Her eyes drifted up back to Cloudsdale, where she could still see the rainbow streak coursing along the race track. Unable to breathe she watched as the trail exploded into all the colours of the rainbow. The breathtaking sight zoomed along the track and easily passed the finish line. Her new animal friends, however, were scared from the explosion. It set Fluttershy to work, to comfort them, to let them know it was all going to be okay.

As she managed to console her new little friends, she briefly checked herself out to ensure she was okay too. Down, down, down her eyes travelled, coming to rest at the sight of a cutie mark on her flank! Three small blue butterflies with pink wings. Her little wings fluttered with joy! She buzzed with excitement, after such a poor start to her first ground based expedition, she had all the animals she could imagine, and her cutie mark!

Fluttershy beamed and glanced around again before she allowed her vision to drift skyward, hopeful to be able to make it back up to Cloudsdale and thank her best friend! If not for her, this would never have happened!

She spotted a certain cyan filly flying toward her at great speed and her heart soared. It was Dash! But as the speeding rainbow of a young pegasus drew nearer, and nearer Fluttershy’s heart flittered with a sudden pang of fear. Her friend was clearly moving at such a speed that any impact at all could seriously hurt the both of them. But just before her reflexes could enable her to cower properly, the triumphant filly plucked the surprised Fluttershy off the ground and carried her off in style, with the speed of a waning Sonic Rainboom toward home.

“Rainbow!” Fluttershy gasped, looking to her best friend with shock. “That was...it was a Sonic Rainboom!”

“I know!” Dash grinned widely, holding her friend protectively in her forelegs as if the shy filly were her bride, “I was out there defending your honor, and then THAT happened! It was wicked awesome! I performed the first Sonic Rainboom EVER!”

Fluttershy gasped “You have your cutie mark too!” The excited filly almost quietly screamed with joy.

With a confused look, Dash turned to check the news. “Awesome!!!” Rainbow yelled happily, grinning from ear to ear, her own cutie mark was better than she had ever imagined. “If it weren’t for you, I wouldn’t have done this! Thanks, Fluttershy!”

“N-No...Rainbow...it was all you!” Fluttershy hugged her around her neck, nuzzling her mane, “I didn’t even do anything...all I did was fall... But you...you performed a legendary feat nopony thought possible! And earned your cutie mark! I’m so proud of you....!”

The heated young athlete grinned at her friend. She softly caressed the back of her head with as much care as her shaking, adrenaline filled hooves could manage. “I guess this proves it. We are made to do everything together.”

This brought a delighted squeal out from the shy filly and Fluttershy nuzzled her best friend again, thankful for everything.

The two fillies touched down on a low cloud, further away from Cloudsdale and the rest of their class, but still fairly high in the sky.

“Are you sure you don’t want to go back and see the other foals? I’m sure they would love to see their champion.”

“No way. All I need is you, Fluttershy. Everypony else here is just...uncool. Like summer heat uncool. You...your subzero awesomeness!”

“...Rainbow...” Gratitude filled tears pooled in Fluttershy’s eyes in response to her best friend’s words.

“You’re my best friend, Fluttershy! And friends stick together to the end!” Rainbow declared, grinning. “C’mere, you!”

The two fillies interlocked in a passionate embrace, holding each other tightly. All the while butterflies and woodland creatures surrounded them from far below, observing the sweet scene between them.

As their eyes met, still remaining in their embrace, the two fillies leaned in and kissed each other on the lips. A very strange action, but at the moment, neither of them cared. If there was one surefire way to seal their friendship, this had to be it. They held the position for a small eternity, relishing the touch of each others lips. Fluttershy eventually pulled away from her best friend, she grinning like a filly on Hearths Warming morning who had just discovered the biggest present ever.

Fluttershy gazed into the stunning rosy pink orbs before her and without thinking took a deep breath and leaned in once more to meet their lips. The shock on Rainbow’s face quickly faded into enjoyment as she kissed back. The bold cyan filly eased her friend down into the soft cloud, further melting into the enjoyable and sweet kiss.

Grinning, the two fillies pulled away, both with slow heavy breaths and light, matching blushes. “How was that, Flutters?”

“...Wow....” Fluttershy uttered breathlessly, staring up at her best friend in wonder. “Hee....oh Rainbow...that was quite a kiss...!” She giggled a bit, utterly delighted and also... also something she could not put her young hoof on, not that it mattered at all right now. “Um...thank you...”

The bold pegasus gazed happily at the pony who was her world, mind abuzz with happiness. “No problem, Fluttershy. It was awesome!”

The shy filly pulled back a little, a mix of hope and fear written across her young face. “Um... Dashie?”

Without giving a second thought, the speedster replied, grinning. “Yes Fluttershy?”

“Are we....going to be...together forever?” Uncertainty took over and Fluttershy slowly withdrew further.

With a grin upon her muzzle, the bold youngster donated one last kiss to the timid filly, a light kiss on the nose before she replied, "Yes. Forever.”

Beaming brightly, the young yellow pegasus gently ran a hoof through her little angel’s prismatic mane. If there was ever a moment that she just adored her friend so much more, it had to be now. She nuzzled their noses sweetly, before she bestowed a final kiss of her own upon the other filly’s lips.

“Forever, Rainbow Dash....forever.”

Mighty Wing, capital city of the griffin folk.

Far away from the two young happy pegasi, stood the once noble and strong capital of the griffin kingdom, Mighty Wing. The city stood tall and brooding. Strong like an ancient fortress, yet still clearly in use. The tatty, beaked turrets around the outer wall left little to the imagination as to who resided within. One such southern tower held two griffins. The young energetic female hopped on the spot, eager for the upcoming trip whilst her much older father appeared to be happy to leave all the energy with the young. The Grand Master of the griffins stood, silent and watchful over the land. His mind was on the mighty success of a meeting he had recently endured with Celestia. He knew he had full access to their land and his meeting with said annoying ruler had proved she was as weak minded as ever.

Even if the rest of the council were yet to know it, here now he, Chief Grandeur had a chance to return their kingdom to its former glory.

“Dad.”

“Dad!”

“Daddy!!!”

The cries from his teenaged chick rudely brought the ruler back from his own thoughts.

“Yes, Gilda?”

“Oh good! I thought you were ignoring me there for a second.”

“I was... thou was being a pain in the flank.” Grandeur replied, aloof, with a cruel smirk upon his face.

“But dad... that’s totally uncool.” Insisted Gilda as she glared at her father.

“Not for me. I’m allowed to do what I like. And if our mission doesn’t go to plan, I will lose my seat at the council of elders.”

Despite the risk she knew her father was taking over her journey into enemy territory, the young and eager Gilda wasn't about to allow for any of his problems to bother her in the slightest. “But this will be awesome!”

“My darling pain-in-the-flank chick. Please pay attention for a moment, or I’ll bash your skull.” A claw slowly clenched, raking the stone it rested upon.

Gilda scoffed at her father’s threat, but did as she was bidden.

Gratified by his daughters silence, the ruler of the griffin territories continued. “Beyond here, is the land of the ponies... Equestria as they call it. I want to you go. Learn their ways... then come back to me as the greatest griffin who ever lived. I know what we seek is out there... And I am certain you will be the one to find it.”

“Yes dad.” Obediently replied Gilda. She tiled her head to get a better glance up at her mighty father. “I’ll miss you dad.”

“As will I, miss you too my girl. Now... who’s my coolest chick?”

“I am!” Eagerly replied Gilda.

“Right you are. Now, I’ll race you to cloudsedale!”

“Ohh! So you can take me to where the dweebs live! I thought I had to fly there all by myself.” The young griffin lifted a few feet off the ground, filed with anticipation at the impending fun with daddy.

“Well... I decided we can do this together. The council can eat their own beaks as far as I’m concerned.” This caused his daughter great mirth and the young griffin rocked unsteadily about in the air above him.

“Now that would be funny!” Gilda decided her best course of action was to land once more, rather than potentially embarrass herself in front of her own father. The last thing she needed was to appear uncool in his eyes.

Chief Grandeur waited for his prized offspring to land. He lifted off, his mighty talons snagged the younger flier on his way past. A shriek of joy rent the air as Gilda enjoyed the speedy sensation as her father carried her effortlessly through the sky.

After Grandeur felt he had gained enough altitude, he relinquished his hold and allowed his daughter to spin out of control as she slipped out of his slipstream.

“Hey! No fair!” The annoyed cry caused Grandeur to smile. He knew nothing would stop his chick catching up with again. She was the fastest youngster he had ever come across. The only problem for her now he knew would be for her to make enough friends to pull the secret mission off.

Cloudsdale to Ponyville, 12 happy years later.

The years had drifted peacefully by, as Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy grew into young mares. It had been a bit of a trying time for the pair these past years, but together, they made it through as best as they could. Not everything turned out as it was hoped, what with Rainbow Dash leaving flight school before she graduated. Fluttershy continued in her studies, while Rainbow performed little odd jobs to make some money. The two of them eventually rented an apartment together in a fairly well-to-do neighbourhood after they moved away from their parents’ homes. Rainbow did what she could to support Fluttershy’s studies, to which Fluttershy eventually got herself a job as a waitress to support them both.

However, times had hit a rough end when the rent was raised, and the owner of the apartment was looking to sell their place. Even with both their earnings, they sadly couldn’t find a cheaper place in Cloudsdale. Fluttershy had finished school a few months prior to this notice and they knew it was time to settle down in a cheaper place. Luckily, Rainbow Dash had been taking a course of her own, from her mother’s guidance, in how to be a weather pony.

A fortunate ideal came to mind when Rainbow Dash was offered a job as a weather pony in Ponyville, a small town located below Cloudsdale. Fluttershy, saw this and applied for a job as a veterinary assistant. Then, after she went in for an interview and was later given the job, she decided to move to Ponyville with her best friend. It worked out perfectly, considering they wanted to move along together. One of them staying behind in Cloudsdale while the other left was not a possibility they were willing to endure. Since prices of rent and housing were much cheaper within the small town below, it was ideal for them.

So one morning, with their lease up in less than a week, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy packed up their small amount of belongings and shipped them to Ponyville. It had been fortunate that they found a nice cottage to rent for a while at a cheap price. Fluttershy even planned to save up money to one day buy it, while Rainbow Dash would later find her own place when she had enough saved.

~~~

“You all packed, Fluttershy?” Rainbow asked, as she came into the shy mare’s bedroom.

Fluttershy nodded as she zipped up her saddlebags, “Yes, I’m all packed, Rainbow. Are you?”

The cyan pegasus nodded, gesturing to her saddlebags on her back, “I am! The rest of the boxes finally arrived at the cottage today, and I’ve got the last of our food here. So we can get going when you’re ready!”

“All right,” Fluttershy placed her saddlebags onto her back, and then trotted over to her best friend, “Rainbow... I have to thank you for this... I’m glad we could do it together.”

“Hey, no need to thank me, pal!” Rainbow nuzzled the pretty pink maned young mare affectionately, “I knew that cottage was right up your alley and well... I’m gonna need some time to save up on money, so I guess it won’t kill me to live there for a while too!”

With a small giggle, Fluttershy smiled, “I know. I’m just grateful... Um....well...it’s kind of sad...I’ll miss this place. I mean...it was our first place together, wasn’t it?”

“Aside from back in flight school? Yeah! You’re right!” Rainbow turned to head out the door, with Fluttershy following, “I’m gonna miss Cloudsdale too, but I think I can make it in Ponyville! They need a fast, awesome, super cool pegasus like me!”

“You’re right,” Fluttershy said softly, “I’m very anxious to live there, though. Right on the ground, near the animals...”

Rainbow Dash chuckled to herself, and shook her head. She knew Fluttershy liked that idea all too well, indeed.

The two pegasi left the apartment after the beheld it in one last time. It was a modest little place, just perfect for two young ponies starting out in their lives. But now, it was indeed time to go. While not a place where a lot of memories were created, it did still have a special place in their hearts, since it was their first place since they moved away from their parent’s homes. They would never forget it.

They relinquished their keys at the front desk and left the building for the very last time. As the pair exited the building, Rainbow Dash dropped some of her stuff in surprise. “Dad!?! What are you doing here?”

With a light hearted chuckle, the purple stallion with a spiky rainbow mane stepped forward to greet his daughter. “Well I couldn’t let my girl go without saying goodbye now, could I?”

“You never can get enough of my awesomeness can you dad?” Rainbow Dash bragged with a smile as she stepped forward to greet her father.

“A dad will never tire of seeing his daughter...or her awesomeness.” Came the sure reply as the older pegasus’s yellow eyes twinkled in the daylight with happiness.  Suddenly, his tone dropped to a near inaudible volume before he finished with a cheeky grin upon his face. “Though I’m not sure you will quite ever know the feeling...”

“What do you mean?” The young mare inquired of her father as she she came to stand in his face.

“Oh... It’s just a crazy thought... seeing you and your ‘best friend’ here always makes me smile.” And smile he did, his big confident grin of older-stallion awesomeness, within it, he still held his slightly cheeky, know it all look too. But as this was her father, Rainbow Dash was happy to shrug the comment off and allow herself to be hugged.

“Come here then...” He offered a wing and enveloped his daughter in a warm, welcoming hug.

Fluttershy stood patiently behind Rainbow Dash as said filly hugged her dad back, she felt pretty certain that he had been insinuating that something was going on between them. Not that she would mind of course. As her eyes wandered down her best friend, she found her muzzle suddenly heated up into a slight blush. With a small ‘eep’ she turned away, desperate to turn both her attention and thoughts elsewhere.

“So...um... why did you come... and not... my parents too...or Rainbow’s mum...?” Fluttershy shyly asked from behind her mane.

“Well... I asked... But everypony but me is working. Still... You girls are lucky... at least you have me to send you on your way from ponyville.” He strode over, picked up his daughter’s fallen pack and threw it onto his own back. “Ready?”

“Of course.” Replied Rainbow Dash with equal vigor.

“Yes.” Quietly added Fluttershy as she took her place by her friend’s side.

“Right! Off we go then! I’ll take you most of the way to ponyville. But no further... I do still have my own home here to return to.” The stallion took off at a leisurely pace, at home in the sky.

“You’re on it dad! Come on Fluttershy! This is going to be fun!” The eager young pegasus took to the air after her father without a single glance back.

Fluttershy took a moment to gaze one last time at her temporary home before she took too off after the vibrant pair.

Ponyville, the outskirts.

“This is it! Our new home!” Rainbow Dash declared as she dumped her saddle bags on the floor.

“It’s as wonderful as when we first saw it!” Fluttershy gushed happily.

Even though the cottage was filled with boxes and scattered furniture, it was still a wonderful sight to behold. Their new home, an actual house, was all ready for them to arrange and live in. The cottage was located on the border near the Everfree Forest, a very strange and scary place where monsters and creatures roamed... But within its lesser evil places, it still housed woodland creatures. Perfect for Fluttershy, to be sure.

The cottage had a fireplace, a living room, a kitchen area, a downstairs bathroom, a basement, and an upstairs. There was only one bedroom at the top of the stairs, but it didn’t matter. Both their beds fit perfectly alongside one another, and it wasn’t the first time they shared a room, either. Their days back in Flight School were spent sharing a dorm together, and occasionally even the same bed. More so, although they had their own rooms back at the apartment, it wasn’t a big deal to step back into their old arrangement from fillyhood.

“Well we do have a lot of unpacking and arranging to do, Rainbow...” Fluttershy said as she gazed around the room. “Shall we?”

“You bet! Start unpacking, I’ll move stuff around!” Rainbow grinned as she nudged her friend lightly with a hoof.

Fluttershy nodded, “Right! Let’s begin!”

The bold mare begun to move the various household items roughly into place. Fluttershy turned around to see her friend engaged, slowly shifting the couch along toward the back window. She turned, with a grin upon her muzzle to face her friend. Fluttershy glanced around the room then back to the strong cyan pegasus.

She shook her head. “Um.... How about...over there.” She pointed with a delicate yellow hoof to a spot on the opposite side of the room, right between the door the kitchen and the stairs to their bedroom.

“Okay.” The athletic mare complied, moving the couch over toward the other end of the room.

Fluttershy studied it for a moment, considering, and then shook her head, “No no...try moving it to that end of the room.”

“Sure,” Rainbow moved it to where Fluttershy had indicated.

“No no...over there.”

“Here?”

“Actually, no. Try back where we started it-no! The other side.”

“Fluttershy!!! Make up your mind!!” Rainbow Dash ceased her task of couch pushing. She couldn’t help but verbally lash out, annoyed by her best friend’s indecision.

A soft “meep” escaped the yellow pony as she realized what had occurred. Her ears drooped as she looked down at the floor in shame, unable to believe she had actually been bossing her around. It was just like when they first moved into their apartment, wasn’t it? When she practically ordered the stronger mare around, quick to forget her place, all because of the positioning of furniture. And it happened again, this time to the point of annoying her.

“I’m...I’m sorry, Rainbow. I didn’t mean to get so...bossy...”

Rainbow’s annoyed countenance immediately melted into guilt as she trotted over to her companion. She brought her forelegs around her in a hug, “Hey...hey, come on. It’s okay. I didn’t mean to yell, okay?”

“No no, you were right to me in my place. ...Um...you can put the couch wherever you like,” Fluttershy murmured as she hugged her strong mare back.

With a grin upon her muzzle, Rainbow nodded, quick to recover. “I liked the first place you picked!”

“...You know what? I did, too,” Fluttershy smiled.

They spent the rest of the day unpacking boxes, arranging the furniture just so, but it wasn’t all done by the day’s end. Of course, the furniture was all placed where it should be, all that was left to do was to unpack the rest of the boxes, and put those items away. For the time being, they did unpack the necessities needed, such as a few clothes, food, dishes and utensils, and other little items such as writing increments and paper.

As the sun began to drift low on the horizon, Rainbow Dash found her tummy asking for food.

The adorable giggles that escaped from the pink-maned pony near her, let her know her request hadn’t gone unnoticed. “I think somepony needs their dinner.”

“Yeah...” Dash trailed off.

“Well, it is our first night in our new home,” Fluttershy said thoughtfully. “Why don’t we go out for dinner? I still have to unpack our cooking stuff, anyway.”

The cyan mare’s face lit up at the suggestion. “All right, but I’m paying.”

She took off out the door before Fluttershy could protest, forcing her slower friend to sprint after her.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The two newcomers headed out into town, scoping out a place to eat at. Rainbow Dash opted for a diner near the town border, but Fluttershy suggested a closer place they were passing, which was a bakery known as Sugarcube Corner.

The two mares headed toward the door, anticipating a good meal ahead. Dash reached for the handle only to have the entrance burst open, revealing a pink earth pony with a fluffy mane.

“Helloooooooo! Nice to meet you! My name's Pinkie Pie!” Streamers exploded into the air and the party pony held her forehooves up in the air, quick to celebrate her first meeting with the two new ponies.

Fluttershy ‘eeped’ and hid behind her bolder friend. Pinkie Pie noticed her effect upon the shy pony and softened.

“I’m sorry. I wasn’t supposed to scare you two! There’s a party to go on here soon! You two cuties must be new around here! I know everypony in Ponyville and since I don’t know you that must mean you’re new! You’re now invited to the party that’s going to start soon!! It’s going to be awesome! Oh, and what are your names?” The speed rambling mare paused, eager for an answer before she continued her speed talk.

A stunned silence hung in the air for a moment. Rainbow Dash was the first to recover from the verbal assault upon her senses. She blinked a few times to clear her stunned mind before she struck a cool pose as if to indicate herself.

“I’m Rainbow Dash, of course! Fastest flyer in Equestria! And this is my best friend, Fluttershy!”

A yellow hoof waved a shy greeting as its owner continued to hide behind behind the living wall of multi-coloured ego.

“Well! Hello Dashie and Flutters! Awesome to meet you! I’m off now! Got a party to plan for. See you two girls in half an hour!! Bye!” The door slammed shut in the two stunned ponies faces.

“Well... I guess this means we need to find another place to eat.” Rainbow shrugged.

“Okay...” Fluttershy trailed off, still unsure over the motives of their soon to be host. “Lead on, Rainbow.”

The two pegasi wandered around town, enjoying each others company as they explored the new environment. The speedster occasionally took to the sky to stretch her wings while Fluttershy provided her with a constant spectator, something she was well versed in doing for her friend. She enjoyed the thrill of watching her bold cyan friend have fun in the late day sun. It was also nice to be able to sit back and admire her friend for how beautiful she really was without the chance of being noticed.

After a little while, with their rumbling tummies, the two pegasi decided to continue their search for a place to eat. They eventually settled upon the little diner Dash had spotted earlier, the Sweet Briar Rose diner. Apparently it have quite a good reputation around town, so they decided to try it out. Sure enough, the food was delicious! It was all they needed to hit the spot.

Sometime a little later with time to spare before the impromptu invite to the party, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy wandered first around town, before they adventured beyond into the open fields that surrounded Ponyville too. When the cyan pegasus had done a once-over of the area, she had seen all the rural aspects of it, and found it to be a combination of boring and yet awesome, since wide open fields meant a perfect place to practice her stunts on and above the ground.

An amazing view of the sun dipping into the horizon was all that Fluttershy needed for an idea of what to do next.

“Rainbow...why don’t we watch the sunset? We used to do that sometimes...when we were fillies...”

“C’mon, really?” Rainbow groaned, shaking her head, “That’s just a boring pastime! C’mon Fluttershy, let’s do something awesome!”

“...Please?” Fluttershy pleaded as her gorgeous aquamarine eyes began to water.

No matter what, Rainbow Dash could never say no to that face or those eyes. She trembled, then sighed, relenting.

“All right, fine. We’ll watch the sunset until the party. Happy?”

With a soft giggle, Fluttershy nodded and nuzzled their noses. “Yes!”

They sat down on a little hilltop and drank in the view of Celestia’s sun as it gently dipped into the vast horizon far ahead. It certainly was a bit different than in the past when they observed the sunsets up in Cloudsdale, but no less beautiful. Fluttershy felt ecstatic to experience such a beautiful sight in their new home setting, while Rainbow Dash, who liked sunsets almost as much, felt a bit restless.

But, she was glad she wasn’t alone. Sharing moments like these with her best friend were worth the boredom.

Shifting closer, Fluttershy smiled brightly at her friend, then gently lay her head against her shoulder. Rainbow Dash blushed a bit, but welcomed the contact. Nopony else was there, so she didn’t care. She smiled too, leaning her head gently against Fluttershy’s. She even brought a foreleg around the cute pony, happy to hold her closer.

It just made this quiet, peaceful moment even better.

Of course, they still had the upcoming party at Sugarcube Corner and for that Rainbow Dash was grateful. As nice as the company was, it would be great to do something truly exciting before bed. She also wanted to meet her fellow townsponies and see just how many she could impress with her awesomeness.

Chapter Eleven: Nightmare Night Suprises

Chapter Eleven: Shock waves

Canterlot Palace

“So, then we shall report to our sister of our findings, it seems,” Princess Luna announced to Twilight, as if she needed to know.

Walking alongside her in the grand corridors of the palace, Twilight nodded, “It’s all part of getting you used to spending more time in the company of other ponies. And, well, being her student, I guess it’s no wonder she wanted me to help you and report your progress.”

“Thou art kind to help us, Twilight Sparkle,” Luna murmured, looking away from her, “We simply cannot thank you enough for your time. We are imagine it must be quite an arduous task for thou to endure.”

“Twilight. Just Twilight please.” The unicorn smiled.

“Er...yes, Twilight...” The Princess of the night repeated, sounding uncertain. “Well, then we suppose it is only proper that thou may address us as simply Luna.”

“Okay. That would be nice.” Twilight smiled, delighted with the way the conversation was traveling.

A small smile traced Luna’s lips, “Very well then. Do tell, Twilight Sp-....pardon, do tell, how art thou conducting thy studies in Ponyville? Thou never did explaineth thy assignment.”

The purple unicorn thought for a moment before she replied, determined to give the best answer possible to her new friend. “Well it’s really quite a simple assignment really once you get used to living with other ponies. I just have to report to Princess Celestia on my findings on friendship. There’s nothing to it.”

“On friendship, you say...” Luna repeated, dropping the olden Equestrian tongue. “...Tell us, Twilight, what findings hath thou discovered thus far?”

“Well... um the first joy was sharing your blessings and not just keeping everything to yourself. Then I learned that while friendship is about the giving of ourselves to friends, it's also important to accept what our friends have to offer. So far the lessons have been great!” Twilight had a slight spring in her step at the mention of her successes so far.

“It would seem, as we heard...” Princess Luna said thoughtfully. “Our sister receives thy reports by letter... We must admit, it certainly must be lovely to receive.”

“Well yes...” Twilight blushed slightly.

“May we read them?” Inquired the alicorn.

“Oh, sure! I don’t have a problem with it. I don’t think Princess Celestia will mind, either. Why don’t we ask her when we get to the throne room?”

“Thank you for your generosity Twilight. We will be sure to study your letters well.”

Twilight smiled a bit more as she looked at the midnight blue alicorn, “I don’t doubt that, Princess-...sorry, I mean Luna. I have to say it’s great how you’ve been studious and retaining the information we’ve learned so far as well as you have. I’m sure you’ll have a lot to learn as well when it comes to friendship.”

“Yes. And we hope that you will continue to grace us with your company. It...it helps, having somepony who understands.” The alicorn trailed off into silence.

“Well, then I’m glad to be of help to you in that also, Luna,” the lavender unicorn replied kindly.

“We must admit though... we are not normally able to study as well as we have today... Methinks it has to do with the company.” The alicorn brushed a wing against the mare beside her.

Twilight blushed a bit, especially when, to her surprise, the wing draped over her back. Much in the way Rainbow Dash draped her wing over Fluttershy’s back.

Luna smiled down at her blushing companion. “Is my wing appreciated?” She asked hopefully.

“W-Well... I never had this happen before... except when I was a filly, and Princess Celestia used to do the same to keep me warm and protect me.” Twilight admitted. “But...yes. This is nice, Princess.”

The royal mare smiled happily, so far things were going much better than she imagined they would. Here she was with a friend, who seemed to understand her better than anypony else, other than her sister. She was kind, powerful and had the most amazing- ‘Thou must stop there. Such inference has only led to trouble in the past.’

“Mayhaps I might be allowed to take you up and show you my night sky sometime?”

The idea immediately sparked Twilight’s interest as she looked at the midnight alicorn. “Really?! Wow! That would be wonderful! I’d love that! Oh, I’d have to bring my notes along, to document everything I find, and really see everything up a lot closer!”

“Of course. Anything that pleases thee.”

“Gosh, Princess...that’s really nice of you, I’d like that a lot, really! Thank you...!” Twilight’s excitement bubbled up inside and a slight blush coated her muzzle at the warm sensation that followed it.

“It’s just Luna,” Said alicorn smiled kindly down at the pretty mare who kept pace alongside her.

“Right! Of course, Luna.”

The two found quickly themselves at the throne room. It was an average day at work for Princess Celestia who was seated at her throne, overlooking a few samples of paperwork she would later be taking into her private study. But when Twilight and Luna entered, she lowered the papers down with her magic and smiled warmly.

“Ah, there you two are. How did it go?” The princess of the sun enquired.

“It went really well, Princess!” Twilight said eagerly. “We had a pretty good time just studying and even talking about things!”

“Thy student has the most divine flank.” Luna commented, as a delighted grin emerged across her muzzle.

Celestia’s eyes went wide for a fraction of a second, before her lips curled into an amused smile. Twilight, on the other hoof, looked completely shocked and slack-jawed. Where had that come from?!

Noticing her student’s discomfort, despite how amusing it was for her sister to say such a thing, it was then that Celestia returned to stern mode, “Luna... While I am glad you finally managed to express levity, I will say that that was highly inappropriate. I do apologize for your discomfort of that, Twilight.

“...We are sorry Twilight. Could thou ever forgive us?” Luna asked, blushing, despite how truthfully she had meant it, the princess realized it was entirely out of place to publicly announce such facts.

“I-it’s okay... I’ve just never had anypony say such things about me before. I’m only an average unicorn.”

Luna’s eyebrows rose. “Never? Thou art serious? ...Hmm....We can only wonder why nopony has noticed.”

“Um... yes.” Twilight replied, still shocked that anypony could think her good looking.

Celestia spoke up, “I think it’s because she has only ever lived in the library or around ponyfolk who are too reserved to talk so openly about such matters.” The princess looked thoughtful for a moment. “Hmmm... The moon and her stars... That could be delightful...”

“Sister, surely this must be changed! For dear Twilight Sparkle is but a lovely specimen and should not-”

“A-Anyway!” Twilight interrupted, clearing her throat. “So, uh, I do have a friendship report!”

“That's good, Twilight.” Celestia accidentally let out a little giggle unbefitting of royalty. “Would you care to share it with us?”

“I would,” said the unicorn, looking relieved to have the subject veered away from her...apparent attractiveness. “I learned that sometimes, when you make a new friend, they can sometimes need a little help with certain matters. But when you be patient, work with them, meet them halfway and just be there for them, you can really see how much of a good friend they can be. Because you gave them a chance and helped them when they needed a little nudge in the right direction.”

Twilight jumped as a midnight blue wing ruffled her mane affectionately. “Thou art a great orator too, Twilight.”

“Sister... sometimes some ponies need to learn when to hold their tongues or keep their wings to themselves. Now is such a time...” Celestia required the alicorn before her with a light, amused smile upon her lips.

Luna exhaled, but nodded, “We suppose you’re right, sister. We do apologize Twilight Sparkle.”

“Once again... it’s-” Twilight was cut off by the doors to the throne room as they burst open.

The trio turned, looking to see the surprising sight of Fluttershy as she rushed into the room with an injured and bloody Rainbow Dash on her back. The yellow mare looked panicked and weary, while Rainbow Dash appeared lifeless and limp, which was worrisome. The guards around the pair appeared to have been in a fight and many bore claw marks where they had been raked by attacking griffins.

Twilight gasped and rushed to her aid. “Oh my gosh, Fluttershy! What happened?! Who did this?!” Twilight wanted to know, growing worried.

“G-g-griffin... in the city... attacked... Rainbow... is gone now...” Fluttershy collapsed beside her partner.

“We fought them off your highness, but they got away.” Added one of the guards with a grim look upon his face.

Immediately, Celestia rose from the throne and strode over to the group, she bore a grave and serious expression, “Fluttershy, first you must calm yourself. I will take her to be healed and cleaned up. Twilight, Luna, please stay with Fluttershy and bring her to a room so she can rest and recuperate.”

“No!! I must stay with her! Please!!!” Cried the hysterical pegasus. All she could think about was to leave Rainbow Dash all alone would allow her to die and she found the thought terrified her like nothing before.

“I would recommend you to rest, my dear little pony.” Celestia tried to convince the distressed mare with her calm, soothing voice. “I will allow you to see her once the shock has worn off. By the looks of things, she will require immediate attention and we can not afford any interruptions. Okay?”

Fluttershy whimpered, but conceded as she allowed her mare to be lifted up by the Princess’s magic. Twilight went over to her friend and gently patted her back in comfort. Princess Celestia gently carted Rainbow Dash out of the room with her magic as she headed off to heal and examine her, leaving the other three in the room to do as she had instructed.

Wordlessly, Luna stood up and motioned for Twilight and Fluttershy to follow her. The two mares did so, to which the midnight Princess draped a wing over them both as a way of comforting them. Fluttershy simply didn’t care and simply allowed it, what with how terrified and grieved she felt at the moment.

Twilight bit her lip, looking to Luna with nervous eyes. “Luna... do... do you think she’ll be alright?”

“We are unsure. It would seem that it all depends on how her rainbow-maned companion does.” The night princess replied softly.

Fluttershy trembled as they walked, crying softly to herself.

“...I hope so... she looked pretty beat up...” Twilight murmured, biting her lip again.

“R-Rainbow....” Fluttershy murmured as if in a tearful trance, the harsh images of her attackers still all too clear in her mind.

“Do not worry yourself, young Fluttershy,” Luna assured her. “Your marefriend is in safe hooves with my sister, that much you can be assured.”

Small tears continued to run down yellow cheeks as Fluttershy walked along, too choked with emotion to utter any further words. Her whole world had shattered in minutes after what had started out as a perfect afternoon.

Twilight peeked around Luna’s form to look at Fluttershy, feeling her heart sink. She had never seen any of her friends this upset, or scared before. It was almost terrifying, and she couldn’t possibly imagine what Fluttershy was going through. This was Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy’s longtime best friend, and her lover. They had been through so much together. And the prospect of losing her had to be something horrible.

Luna led them to a suite, to which she opened the door and allowed them entrance. Using her magic, she gently set Fluttershy onto the bed so that she could rest. Twilight jumped up onto the bed next to her friend to keep her company and soothe her as best as she could.

Fluttershy wriggled away from the unicorn and cried softly, burying her muzzle in the bed sheets.

“Shhh...” Twilight rubbed her back soothingly, using her magic to settle Fluttershy down as best as she could. “Calm down Fluttershy, it’s okay. We’re here with you, you’re not alone. You’re going to be fine.”

“B-but what if... what if... she doesn’t make it... We’ve always been together...” Fluttershy continued to cry as her mind reeled.

“Twilight Sparkle, it is best if we keep her warm and safe. She is in shock.” Luna told her unicorn companion gravely.

The young scholar nodded and shifted her position to accommodate for the alicorn as well. The two mare’s sat by the poor pegasus who was cried for her loved one.

After what felt like forever for the pair, their charge finally fell into fitful slumber. Twilight breathed a sigh.

“So...what do we do? Do you think she’ll be all right?” Twilight asked, worried for both her friends.

“We will wait until our sister reports back to us, Twilight,” Luna told her softly. “Until then, we are to do what she says.”

“Okay. Well what would you like to do while we wait?” The lavender mare asked her new friend.

The alicorn princess sighed heavily, draping her wing over their charge once more to keep her warm. “I do not know, Twilight Sparkle... It would seem that this grievance makes it hard to think of anything else, does it not? Perhaps thou may haveth a suggestion?”

“Yes... Um...” Twilight’s cheeks heated as she thought of one idea... “M-may I...um... well you see your other wing... and it was so comforting before somehow...” She trailed off awkwardly.

A small smile overcame Luna’s face. She lifted her free wing, motioning for Twilight to come to that side.

Twilight complied, moving over to snuggle into the larger mare’s hold. She sighed with relief as feathers enveloped her, soothing her mind and allowing her to finally relax. With a blush still covering her face, she nuzzled the alicorn in thanks.

With her wings draped over the two other ponies, Luna settled down as best she could, and lent gently against Twilight. Despite the tense situation surrounding her sister’s student and her friend, she felt a faint warm glow inside at the purple unicorn’s touch. She even smiled a little at Twilight’s close snuggling, and offered a hint of a blush on her dark cheeks as she reciprocated.

Some time later, after what could have been hours, Princess Celestia entered the room, looking grim.

“Well, with the help of our best medical team, I managed to stabilize her condition. However, she is comatose at the moment due to her severe injuries and has suffered a concussion. She fractured a few bones, especially in her wing, and has internal bleeding. It is hard to say whether or not she will arise from the coma any time soon, but at the moment, I have managed to heal her as best I could.”

Twilight breathed a sad sigh of relief. Despite all those injuries, her friend was still alive. That at least meant she could heal.

“Twilight, I have written a letter to your friends, so that they may come to be with you two while Rainbow Dash recuperates.” Celestia continued, still in a steady calming tone. “Luna... thank you for taking care of Fluttershy and Twilight, your help was greatly appreciated.”

“You’re welcome sister. We... we must now awaken Fluttershy now mustn't we?”

Celestia looked down at the sleeping pegasus, nodding, “I suppose that would be best. However, we must tell her this lightly, and make sure she will not react harshly. I can see that she was in shock, almost to the point of delirium earlier, was she not?”

“Yes, she was...” Twilight sighed. “It took us a while to get her to sleep.”

“Well. I trust you two to act with caution. She will likely still be broken inside after what the griffins did to her. But if she asks to see her fillyfriend then I welcome her to do so in a few hours time.”

“A few hours time?” Twilight repeated. “...Okay, I just hope that’ll sit well with her. But okay, Princess, we’ll make sure she’ll be all right.”

The alicorn of the sun nodded her thanks before leaving. The room quickly became deathly quiet once more as the two mares watched over the sleeping form of Fluttershy.

“....Luna?” Twilight spoke up softly.

“Thou would like to request something of us?” Luna asked solemnly, with a hint of hope in her voice.

“N-No...not at the moment,” the unicorn shook her head. “I guess I just... wanted to say that I’m glad you’re here with us, Luna. I...well, I’m not sure what I’d do if I was all by myself in this. You’ve been really helpful to me, too...”

“We... I have been greatly appreciative of thou too Twilight. I am glad we had each other for this task.”

A small smile traced Twilight’s lips. “Me too... I’m glad we had each other... and I’m glad we could be here for Fluttershy. ...She really needs it.”

Luna softly rested her head onto of the unicorn next to her. “Yes... we feel she does.”

“...I hope she’ll be okay... Rainbow Dash means so much to her, and she’s one of my best friends, too,” Twilight sighed, looking toward the window with a faraway look in her eyes. “I never went through this kind of thing before. It’s kind of scary. I can only imagine how Fluttershy feels.”

Luna held her silence, unwilling to add to the downtrodden mood in the air. Even Twilight took a page from her book when she too fell into a soft silence.

The next few hours fell by as Twilight too allowed herself to fall asleep, awaiting the moment to deliver the bad news to the sleeping pegasus.

The sun rose the next morning, it cast light into the otherwise dark, downtrodden room. The rest of Twilight and Fluttershy’s friends arrived, along with Spike. Now Applejack, Rarity and Pinkie Pie sat on the floor by the ornate bed, while Twilight and Luna remained with the still-sleeping Fluttershy. Since the bedchambers were so spacious, there was more than enough room for everypony. Yet, despite the size, the newly arrived ponies kept together to better help each other over the rough surprise. In the interim, Luna quietly informed the rest of the Elements of Harmony about what had happened along with Rainbow’s condition.

Pinkie Pie, trying to be cheerful, could only sit in stoic silence most of the time. Rarity was crying, but softly so as not to disturb the mood, while Spike tried to comfort her. Applejack looked grim as she sat there, hat against her chest, not saying so much herself.

The solemn mood was softly broken by the entrance of Celestia. The princess nodded to her sister who gently nudged the sleeping Pegasus.

Fluttershy stirred slowly. “D-Dashie?” She reached out in her waking moments for her loved one to find nothing.

Panicking, she jumped up to find all her friends seated on the floor in front of her. Her ears drooped, yesterday had not been just a bad dream.

“No, it’s us, Fluttershy. We’re all here.” Twilight told her softly.

“Don’t ya worry, sugarcube. We’re here fer ya,” Applejack assured.

“That’s right, darling... you do not need to worry about a thing.” Rarity murmured, wiping her eyes with a handkerchief.

Pinkie Pie smiled, but said nothing. As did Spike, who had now taken to sitting with the normally cheerful party pony and played with her curly mane.

“H-hi everypony... w-why are you all here?” Fluttershy asked, frightened by what the answer might be.

“Fluttershy,” Celestia said softly as she approached the mare in shock. She bent low to the level of the bed to look her in the eye. “I wish to tell you what is going on, and I’m going to need you listen to me, and to remain calm. Can you do that, my little pony?”

Despite the panic in the yellow mare’s eyes she nodded.

“All right, good. First of all, I think it is best that I tell you of the straightforward factors at hoof. Rainbow Dash is still alive. She is currently recuperating in the hospital wing of the castle under intensive care. Her condition has stabilized, and she has made a tremendous recovery over the course of the night.”

“D-does this mean... I can see her? I...I must...” Fluttershy gazed up at the royal pony pleadingly.

“You may. But I ask that, for the time being, we allow only one pony, and given that you are closest to her, Fluttershy, you may see her. But do keep this in mind. Rainbow Dash is currently comatose, and it is uncertain how or when she will come out of it.” The princess added gravely, but softly.

“I will,” Fluttershy whispered softly as a tear escaped.

The distraught pegasus shyly got up from her resting place and after feebly hopping off the bed, she stood before the mighty princess of the sun.

“You may follow me, then.” Celestia turned to leave. “Luna, please take my student and her friends to the dining hall for something to eat. I’m sure they must be hungry.”

A few growling tummies confirmed her suspicion.

Pinkie giggled at this. “Yay, food fight!” She grinned inappropriately, eager for something fun to break the downtrodden mood.

“Ah could use food in mah tummy...but Ah cain’t help a food fight...” Applejack chuckled a little.

“Honestly, a food fight? At a time such as this?” Rarity rolled her eyes, sighing.

“I’m up for that!” Spike said, getting up onto Twilight’s back.

“Yes silly... We need something fun to get our sad faces turned upside down.” Pinkie did her best to smile happily as she got up, ready for something to eat.

Luna took her place by Twilight’s side, placing a wing over the unicorn, careful to avoid the dragon on top.

Celestia smiled warmly at their moments of levity before she led Fluttershy out of the room, Luna did the same in leading Twilight and her friends out as well.

Eastern Foothills of Foal Mountain

“Gee bird brain. Why did you have to go start a fight? Now those guards are out looking for us.” Muttered one of the griffin patrol as they flew along at combat speed toward home.

“Yea, ya’ just made it harder for all a’ us.” Added another annoyed scout.

“I’m in charge here. You fools didn't get to me in time! Ok? Now, we’re landing!” Commanded a highly annoyed Captain Volibeak.

The small group landed quickly, but before Volibeak could issue any orders one of his less than pleased followers spoke up with a sneer. “Oh yea, and you forget the council... they are gonna skin you alive when they find out you almost started the war already.”

“I give the orders here. Now shut your taps! No one is to say or do anything without my permission.” The wounded leader paused to fight off a wave of pain that hit his system.

Oh, how he would have loved to continue the fight and teach those pesky ponies the meaning of pain. But being outnumbered, even with his patrol of 9 griffins at his back, had left no option to retreat. As he glared around his small party, he noted that most of them had sustained injuries of some kind. For the pathetic, insolent little creatures that they were, those pony guards had put up a greater fight than Volibeak had imagined they would. They had even forced him to drop his lunch. And he had so been looking forward to the taste of pony ever since he had been introduced to the illegal delicacy by his superior, the chief, Grandeur.

“Why did you have that pony in your claw boss?”

“What pony?” Volibeak snapped to attention, stiffening, ready for an all on verbal war.

“We saw you with that pegasus in your claws. Why did you kill it? Were you going to eat it?” An older griffin asked, advancing on the captain.

“Look... she attacked me.” Captain Volibeak replied to his inferior, scowl met scowl as eyes locked in a battle of wills.

“I’m sure she did. Right guys?” The only female in the group spoke up as she trotted to Volibeak’s side. “Come on, drop it before a fight starts.”

Several murmurs passed through the small company as they stood in stand-off, none of the guttural murmurs were nice and all were directed at the two griffins up front.

Captain Volibeak turned to face the only griffin who stood with him. “Thank you Mia. Good to know one griffin is dependable.”

“Why don’t you just buck each other and get it over with already.” Snarled the oldest in the pack, his deep, raspy voice full of hate toward his fellow griffin. “I’m sick of your antics. You keep overstepping the line. If it weren't for Chief Grandeur, you would be dead meat... although, as war approaches, I’ve heard that he is becoming less popular again these days. So maybe your time will be up soon.” The older griffin prowled up to the younger, wounded captain and glared up at him.

“Shut it, private Chein! If I wanted your opinion on something, I would have told you what it was!” ordered Volibeak.

“Whatever. After you have reported your failure to the council, I will be challenging you for command of this scout group. And you will lose to me.” Chein declared before he rammed his beak into Volibeak’s.

“It’s you who’s dead.” Snarled the captain as he did his best to forget his still open wounds. “Soon as I see the hospital, you are done.”

The older griffin chuckled as he turned away. “Sure. Soon as you’re gone though... I can stop listening to those schemes of the grand master and I won’t have to obey that Gilda either.” Relished the older scout as he strutted back to his place amongst his loyal companions.

Before the cocky griffin could reach his comrades, a claw latched into his side and flipped him on his back. The larger Captain Volibeak was on his challenger before anyone else could respond. With harsh deep breaths he leered down at his smaller companion.

“No... I don’t think I will be going anywhere.” With a vicious swipe he knocked his struggling opponent out with one mighty headbutt.

To add to the wound suffered by the downed beast, the lead griffin raked a claw through the primary flight feathers on his foes right wing. Stunned silence rang out across the camp, you could hear the faintest insect noise above the hushed breaths of the stunned group.

“I might be h’injured, but I’m not weak...” spat the captain as he glared down at his downed challenger. The leader of the small scouting group turned to face his other companions. “Look here. I’m still stronger than all of you, I’m the boss, you will do as I say and no griffin will argue. We camp here for the night. I’m off to make a decision. We might fly home, but I suddenly find appeal in the challenge of breaking back into Canterlot. Am I understood?” The iron tone of the commanding griffin ran out across the clearing, the only answer he received were muted nods from all those under his command.

Satisfied, Volibeak stalked off. As much as he would have prefered to have run his unit with no internal conflict, he was sure they were loyal to him again; at least for now. How those ponies managed to seemingly live in complete peace was beyond him. At least brute force was an ever successful way of retaining command.

Moments after her leader’s departure, Mia picked up the only bag of healing supplies they carried and sauntered after her boss, happy to leave her fellow scouts in preference of her captain’s company.

Tense, quiet moments passed as the small company prepared to camp for the night. The odd griffin shot dirty looks toward where their captain had disappeared off to, while others contented themselves with the fact of his iron beaked leadership.

Several griffins burst out laughing as squarks rent the late day air. “Looks like ol’ Chein was right!” Screeched one of the scouts as he fought back his hysterics. “It’s gonna be a long night for those two!”

Laughter followed, then near silence as the unit calmed down once more. Apart from the odd cries of a complaining griffin getting his wounds tended roughly to, the silence persisted.

“I hope she mauls him. Then we are sure to go home. I’m getting sick of these woods. Equestria makes me sick.” Spat another of the small party as he tended to Chein’s wounds with concern.

“Well, you're paid to think. But not like that. So shut it.” Advised another as he settled down for the night. “

“Snoopeh, your watch.” Commanded the griffin who continued to slowly care for his fallen comrade.

“Fine. But ya’ is second.” The griffin in question took off to find a nice vantage point to keep guard from, his tawny brown wings propelling him upwards with expert ease.

Mighty Wing, Chief Grandeur’s mansion

“Come in.” The voice of Chief Grandeur rang out loud and clear in the otherwise quiet mansion.

With a deep breath to stabilize himself, the young scout stepped into the room of his master. He felt ready. Ready to admit yet another of his rare yet annoying failures. Now was as good a time as any to simply get it over with.

The door creaked open to reveal his master. The massive griffin appeared as well groomed as usual, yet it was clear from the scowl on his face that he was already displeased with his servant.

“What is this? Why are you hurt?” Demanded Chief Grandeur as he eyed up one of his prized servants with distaste.

“I have a mate now. Okay?” smirked Volibeak back at his master. “It’s nice to finally have one of those...”

“So... she’s one of the rough ones?”

“Yea. Kept standing up for me, even when the other subordinates got mutinous. Then last night I found out why... she also tried to fix me up a little. But she sucks real bad as a medic.” He smirked across at his boss.

“And... thou has them under control?” Chief Grandeur had become impassive once more and regained his usual, impenetrable cool.

“Yea. That is why I have so many injuries.” Nodded Volibeak, his golden eyes gleamed in the weak light of the study room.

“And I take it you failed to find the relic.” It was more of a statement than a question, after all, the elder already knew the answer.

Volibeak nodded mutely, his presence alone should have been enough to make that fact crystal clear. He now wished he was back in Equestria, still trying to find a way back into Canterlot.

“Ah well... at least thou and Gilda managed to retrieve another of the six. That is still one closer to our goal.” mused the big boss as he toyed with the items on his desk.

Silence settled in; uncomfortable silence that left the younger griffin squirming as his boss’s predatory eyes shifted around, examining every little detail on the wounded hide of the young scout captain.

“Those are spear wounds, are they not?” asked Grandeur, almost absentmindedly.

“Correct sir.”

The Chief sighed. “Thou got into a fight with guards?” Again, it sounded more like a statement and Volibeak felt like he was receiving a telling off already. This was not going to be fun.

After a moments contemplative silence, the forthcoming answer breached the young captain’s beak. “Yes. One of them stupid pegasi attacked me.”

“Oh...?” Grandeur eyed his servant with a suddenly amused gaze. “I’m sure you just had to attract attention when you were getting close, did thou not?”

The young captain cursed under his breath before replying with trepidation. “I did my best sir. If you still think the item is in Canterlot, send me out again. I shall not fail you this time.”

“No!” Sharp claws dug into the desk the grand eldar sat behind. The mighty griffin quickly rose, glaring down at his young faithful servant. “No...”

The old griffin stalked slowly toward the young captain who he quickly pinned against a wall. The fire in his old eyes told Volibeak that the calm exterior was only a false wall, projected outward for others to see. Then, the old griffin spoke, his voice as sharp as a keen blade. “Thou are one of my best. But you shall not fail me again.” His bloodshot eyes traveled the scout’s muzzle before drilling into the light blue eyes of Volibeak. There Chief Grandeur held him captivated. “You know... the way to succeed here? If a part of our empire does not work, swap out the maimed and dysfunctional limb for a new one. Sever it off with beak and claw if I must. This I have done each and every time it has been required thus far and you know what... it works perfectly. Your bickering party of fledglings will serve from home now. Your captaincy is hereby revoked and I remove you from your pathetic squad. I want both you and your new missus to see me at dawnbreak tomorrow for your new assignments. Thou are hereby dismissed... my faithful servant.”

“But... but... You can’t do this to me! You need me out there!” The claws of the young angered griffin sank into the hard floor, grinding in a surreal way as they forced their way through hard stone. There was nothing Volibeak could do about his change in rank, especially with his master towering above him.

A cruel grin settled over Grandeur’s face and he settled back as if easing from one state of mind to another. “I just did. And I know thou wilt obey. I already have another unit of scouts on their way into Equestria. The council commissioned them to venture forth alongside our allies as a way of building our trust between the two. You are dismissed. I shall see thee in the morning.”

With a growl, the young captain stormed out. His one consolation was that he would not have to put up with his unwilling rabble for days on end anymore. As he burst out the front door and barged into his new mate who had been patiently waiting for him, he decided it was probably best that he calm down at some point.

Maybe.

Either way, those ponies were in trouble next time. Volibeak was sure of it.

Chapter Twelve: Revival

Chapter Twelve: Of Plans and Plots

Canterlot Palace

At the hospital wing of the castle, Celestia paused in front of one of the rooms, guarded by two royal guards, who allowed entrance.

“Alright, here is her room. I do ask that you be very careful.”

“I will. Thank you...” Fluttershy softly replied, nodding.

Celestia gave her a warm smile. “Do not worry, Fluttershy. I think, with you there, she will draw strength from your friendship, from your love. I will leave you to see her in private. If you need anything, you may ask any of the medical staff and they will tend to your needs.”

Fluttershy nodded solemnly, stepping into the room beyond. She walked along with her mind drifting to every place that wasn’t the somber room she found herself in. ‘Where’s my Rainbow Dash? I need her... she needs me.’

Further in the room, on the luxurious hospital bed, was the mare Fluttershy had been seeking. The once proud speedster was hooked up to life support. Rainbow Dash wore a hospital gown, bandages, and an oxygen mask over her snout. Despite her injuries and the slightly bloodstained bandage around her head, she looked as if she were merely sleeping.

Fluttershy gasped at the sight and took flight over to be with her loved one as fast as her wings could carry her. “Dashie, oh my Rainbow....” She sobbed as she landed at the foot of the bed, burying her face in the outer reaches of the multi-coloured mane.

Although she felt relieved to know that her beloved was still alive, it worried her. What if she never came out of that coma? What would happen? How long would she be in it and when would she awaken? She wouldn’t die in a coma would she? Fluttershy had so many questions, so many worries. But all she could do was sob, mourning the saddening sight of her best friend. To think that only mere hours ago the day before, they had been laughing and having a good time together, reminiscing of the old days over a great meal. They had been happy, enjoying each other’s company.

“...Rainbow....my love...” Fluttershy rose her head, tearfully gazing upon her comatose companion. “I’m here....I’m here... I won’t leave you, Rainbow...I’ll stay by your side until you wake up... I promise you...”

Rainbow Dash didn’t stir, nor even make a sign of life. All that confirmed her chance at continued existence was her heart monitor. But with each beep it made, Fluttershy couldn’t help but fear of the droning flatline that could appear any second. Every heartbeat she feared would be the last.

Carefully, she leaned in and kissed her lover on the cheek.

“I won’t leave your side until you wake, my darling... I won’t...” She whispered, and lay her head on the mattress, closing her eyes and trying to find some kind of solace. Fluttershy even gently held onto a cyan hoof for comfort. She hoped that somehow, Dash would feel her contact and come back to her.

The comatose pegasus’s hoof offered the terrified pony some comfort amongst the ruined form. She nuzzled the cyan offering, holding onto it as if it were a lifeline.

Although Rainbow Dash didn’t respond any further, it was all Fluttershy needed for now.

She was alive.

And if she was alive, then it meant that her Rainbow Dash could come back to her.

Mighty Wing, Chief Grandeur’s mansion

Gilda sat around the dinner table with the rest of her family. They all ate in silence, tearing the flesh from what they were eating at speeds that would leave other animals fearful of the mighty beaks. Beside her, sat her younger brother, Glen. Chief Grandeur sat at the head of the table. He wore a black suit with slits to allow for his mighty wings. It could be that he had plans later that night that required formal attire. It was also possible that he simply wanted to show everyone that he was the boss of the home. Either way, no one felt like asking the tense griffin chief. On his left side, sat his mistress, a griffin by the name of Gretelda. Across from her sat the elder patriarch of the family, the very father of Chief Grandeur himself, Chief Gigan, a ancient griffin who was almost completely grey in both fur and feather. Despite this beast’s age, he bore himself tall and proud as he continued to devour his meal.

“Hey, dad, when do you get to send me out there again?” Gilda asked as casually as possible. Despite her casual appearance, it was hard for her to keep the eagerness completely out of her voice.

“Oh, me too this time please dad! I wanna do something awesome and cool for once!” Piped in Glen, like a little chick.

Chief Grandeur calmly faced his children as he wiped his beak with a napkin offered to him by his mistress. “Gilda, thou shalt know when the time is right, should such an occurrence come to be. Glen... I will require you to take up more training before I will allow you out there. You must be strong willed and a formidable fighter to face those wretched ponies.”

“Would that allow me to get a cool title like yours dad?” The youngster asked, seemingly ignorant of the meaning behind his father's title and the hard work involved in obtaining it.

“Absolutely, son. Much as I and my father before me.”

The elder Chief merely nodded solemnly before he resumed eating.

A knock sounded on the door, which was rapid to indicate urgency.

“Come in!” The Chief’s voice rang out with kingly authority.

A messenger scout entered, he shoved the butler roughly to one side as he barged in. The messenger was bedraggled, his deep brown feathers were ruffled and his chocolate brown pelt wet from impacting with too many rain clouds.

“Sire, we have reports from your operative in Manehatten,” announced the messenger griffin, looking off into the distance so as to not meet his master’s eye.

“And...” Chief Grandeur’s menacing tone made it clear that failure was not an option he wanted to hear.

"They report that no artifact is present in the city. They also wish to tell you, it is still poorly defended. The pony princess still fails to heed the hints of war." The messenger bowed his head in respect for his leader as he awaited a response.

Chief Grandeur settled down, pleased by the report. “This is good news indeed. Instruct them to advance our plans. I shall take full control of the council tomorrow at noon. Keep all signs of thy presence hidden till three days thereafter."

"It shall be done, boss." The messenger bowed and exited.

"Does my lord require anything further?" Asked the butler from his place by the door.

"No. Leave us." Grandeur waved the servant away.

The door closed quietly, leaving the family in peace as the head of the table surveyed his house. "Gilda. I would like thee to meet with me come dawn. It shall be in my office as per usual."

"Okay. That sounds cool dad." Grinned Gilda.

"Can I come too please, dad?" begged Glen.

“No. Gretelda, take care of my son. See that he is kept from trouble,” Chief Grandeur instructed as he adjusted his suit. “Father, we shall depart. I shall summon our followers for a meeting.”

The griffin mistress in question nodded in obedience to her mate before resuming what was left of her meal.

“Lame, Dad... Can’t I come tonight too?” Gilda rolled her eyes knowing her question would only be met by a no.

“Come on, Dad! Let me come too! Then I can learn the ways of the lords!” The energetic young griffin almost bounced into the air with excitement. Glen did his best to make sure that he truly meant what he was saying and so met his father with highly excited eyes.

“Son, your enthusiasm is greatly valuable. But now is not the time.” Chief Grandeur chided his son. The mighty griffin went to leave, but paused, turning to face his children. “...Actually my daughter... I have a use for you tonight...” The mighty griffin paused in thought. “I want you to summon our followers.”

“Aww... yea!” The excited youngster hopped up rushed to her father’s side. “Thanks, dad! I’m sure you won’t regret getting me to help.”

“Okay... whatever dad. Just don’t leave it too late. I don’t want to take over from some old bag of feathers who can’t teach no more...” Glen glumly headed out, disappointed that he was about to miss out on such an excellent chance to see his cool father in action, leading others and whatever else he did while he was out.

Taking one glance toward his son, Chief Grandeur paid no further mind to his family as he led his father out of the room to head to the meeting within the grand headquarters of the city.

Mighty Wing Streets

A lone figure snuck along in the night, the griffin stopped at seemingly random doors along the bleak road in Mighty Wing. With a single knock the door would open and words would be exchanged. Sometimes the griffin inside would appear to dispute the orders given to them and a harsh, hushed conversation would take place. Every encounter resulted in the lone figure strutting off successful.

Mighty Wing, the Hidden Underground

“And here we are...” Smiled Chief Grandeur as he settled back in his seat.

The dungeon like room was lit by a single candle in the middle of a simple black circular table.  A small group of seven griffins sat around the table. At the head sat the leader of the group, Chief Grandeur. He appeared as smug as always in his better than thou manor that left the others in the room with no question of who ruled the roost.

A single long talon traced along the table as the chief continued to talk. “You are all no doubt wondering why my daughter summoned you.” He paused to glance at those around him. Apart from his father, no one had any idea why they had been summoned out of the blue. This was good. Although, maybe he should not have sent his daughter away after using her to summon their supporters. After a moment's deliberation the mighty leader put thoughts of his most beloved chick aside. She was to be told anything important in the morning. Better for one so young and valuable to get to sleep. Plus, this way he could leave out anything she was not allowed her hear quite yet.

With a dark smirk, he continued once more. “The pieces continue to move in our favour and I shall take full control of the council tomorrow at noon. Not only that... but we shall get our greatest asset... For here is another piece of Warbeak’s talisman.” As the sharp golden object impacted with the table, several members of the party let out a gasp.

“So it isss true...” Murmured a hooded griffin with an orange and white striped face.

“This must mean... they all have survived.” Added a female voice, awed by the golden claw that was pinned to the table by their chief's claws.

“Yes,” nodded Chief Grandeur as his right claw continued to rest protectively upon the golden claw that was the talisman. “As it was foretold. He has survived, and now is the time for us to bring him back and retake the lands that are ours.”

“But what about the other Warbeak talismans?” Asked a chocolate brown griffin who had blood red warpaint splashed up his face, especially across his powerful beak to make him appear more menacing. “We only have two.”

“There you are wrong, Draven.” A younger griffin who went by the name Kapisi with an almost pale yellow coat with black markings across his muzzle and body spoke up. “My operatives, assassins if you like, for they did assassinate a low priority target on their way... have found another of our talismans.” Bragged the youngster. With that, the young griffin placed a bag on the table. “Behold...” Kapisi ripped the bag away to reveal what appeared to be a golden feather with a deadly sharp tip. “...Our lord’s feather. The talisman of the wind.”

“Very... very good my young kapisi. May I make use of thou operatives for another task that has come to claw?”  Chief Grandeur asked in a disarmingly nice manner.

“Of course my lord. They will do anything for you.” Replied Kapisi before he knelt down to bow before his chief.

“Good. I would very much like to see them after this meeting,” requested Grandeur. “I have some missions in mind for thou operatives.”

“So, we are half way there. But are you sure now is a good time to start the war? We would look like fools if our plan were to be revealed too soon and Celestia prevents the summoning.” A dark grey and black griffin with deep blue wingtips spoke up in his gruff bass voice. He was the only best in the room who could compare to the mighty chief in size and strength. He stood a full head taller than his lord, a true giant of his species. Upon his strong shoulders, he wore black armour that snaked round to cover his muscular chest and sides. Upon the shoulders of the dark metal, there sat a winged shield insignia, the sign of the black guard. Grandeur’s personal armed forces had been ordered to cease operations many times in the past, yet here stood the commander of the forbidden unit in half garb.

“Commander Dark Wing... now is the perfect time. I am well aware of the risks. But should we assassinate several of the members of the pony bearers of harmony, we shalt be well on the way to victory. At this very moment they will be in Canterlot, summoned by their princess to see their friend whom a captain of mine either killed or injured.”

“How do you know this?” asked a snow white female with a black beak. “And isn’t Canterlot too well guarded for any assassination attempt? ...Especially now they know we are hostile?”

“Sasha,” smiled Grandeur. “Good question... yes.” Claws clacked against the hard surface of the table as the leader of the meeting took his sweet time.

“We all know that Celestia hid several of our talismans of Warbeak. Now that my captain has so dumbly alerted her to our search I am sure she shall send out her bearers of harmony to do her dirty work. Once they find the Warbeak talismans, we forcibly remove what is ours before they transport them back.”

“You want them to find the last of our Warbeak talismanss for us?” asked the hooded griffin, his orange and white striped face contorted into a cruel grin. “I likes the sound of that.”

“Is that what my lord requires of his assassins?” asked Kapisi, a delighted grin spreading across his face as he relished the idea of the upcoming fun.

“Precisely,” nodded Chief Grandeur. “Once thy operatives help me take over the council, I wish for them to head to Equestria and seek out and slay the elements. If we can take them all, Celestia will have lost her precious little ponies and the only ones who can stop us.” The griffin chief turned to his faithful black guard who stood at the table on his right. “Commander Dark Wing, while the assassins keep silent watch, I wish for your griffins to make themselves seen once the council is underway. That way, they will know I still hold the true power of the griffin colonies. Volibeak, my captain who is not here, will see to the scouts. They will side with me. Sasha, we shall require thy services. Every griffin under my command will need armour fit for war.” The snow white female griffin smiled a pride filled smile and nodded in reply, allowing her leader to continue. “Draven. I need you to make sure that your fellow commanders in the guard do not try and stop the black guards entry into primal beak. The meeting between our colonies chiefs must not be disrupted, even if it tis me who is under attack.”

“Yes, Chief.” Bowed the chocolate brown griffin, his red stained beak curled open in pleasure.

Chief Grandeur turned to the hooded griffin to his left. “I want you, unknown, to do what you do best. I want thou to become active in Equestria once more. Join thy spies... find out when it is that Celestia is to send her elements in search of our talismans and where they are destined to go. Immediately inform Kapisi and his assassins for they shalt be waiting in the wing to strike. This must work, for our allies... those unnatural scum grow restless. They hunger for the love the ponies hold in their hearts and I would hate to deny them their wishes for too long. Queen Chrysalis is most unpleased by my lack of action. She does not and may not know why we seek these items.”

“I shall ventuure forth with pleasssure...” replied Unknown, deep scarlet eyes gleamed with dark pleasure from within the hood unnerving every beast around him.

“Good. Depart now,” the chief dismissed his chief spy before turning to his father who sat at his right claw. “Thou art been oddly silent father. Is there something on thy mind?”

“It is as I have told thee my son,” rasped the eldar. “I know that your idiot captain will cause them to rally to their princess. Also, as I have told thee... should we succeed in removing their elements... nothing will stop us... that includes Celestia and her precious partner of old, Discord.”

The mention of the lord of disharmony caused everyone to fall into an odd, uncomfortable silence. While the draconequus had focused his threat upon ponykind, all griffins present knew the kind of chaos that came from the one and only Discord. Although he was merely a story to most griffins, the more learned knew of his past deeds and what he was capable should he be freed from his stone prison. No griffin warrior wanted to be forced to always fly upside down in battle or worse. For the naturally mean spirited griffins, disharmony could easily bring about their defeat.

After a few moments of catching his breath, Chief Gigan continued. “I am sure thou all remember the stories I have told thee... Celestia is not the reason we lost last time. Neither her nor any of her line can defeat our master once he returns... For she allows her elements to be held by mere ponies.” An ancient gnarled claw reached up and dug into the table in malice. “But, I wilt personally oversee the execution of any who hinder our quest. That includes any of thee.”

The elders words rilled several griffins, all of whom considered themselves forever loyal to the chief and his father’s cause.

“Give me the three...” commanded the ancient griffin. His claw opened, demanding payment.

His son, Chief Grandeur turned to face the elder griffin. “Father, thou sure about this? Surely it should be me to-”

“Mine!” raged Chief Gigan, completely intolerant of his sons objections.

“Why?” asked an annoyed Chief Grandeur, angered that his father was standing him up in front of his most important followers.

“Because...” The grey with age beast took a deep breath to steady himself as adrenaline surged through his ancient system, fuelled by his own anger toward his hard headed son. He decided to drop a bomb in the form of information no other beast had been privy to as of yet. “The one who bears the six must give his life that his lord may return. Thy talismans do grant power... but the only control any have is the power to summon the griffin of war. They only have one master and he wilt not relinquish them. This is my dream... this is my life... and none of thou may object.” Bloodshot eyes pierced the gloom as the aggravated elder glared at the younger griffins.

In response to the unexpected information, the leaf was hastily tossed to the elder griffin who snatched the offering without thanks.

Gigan turned to his son. “Well?”

“Well what?” replied Grandeur, his feathers ruffled. He towered over his father and did his best to look intimidating to his eldar. “I will look after them until it is thy time. Don’t you think I too have heard stories? I know what the talismans can do.”

Without warning, the ancient griffin lashed out at his son. His right claw struck the bigger griffin right on the bottom of his muzzle and left a gash all the way up the side of his face. Grandeur held his ground as his father left with his single acquired talisman of Warbeak.

“Dam, boss. You okay?” asked Draven, his gruff bass tone brought everyone out of the shock of seeing their master attacked by his own father. The monster of a griffin took a step toward his Chief, left foreleg outstretched to offer help should it be needed.

“I’ll be fine,” insisted Chief Grandeur bitterly. “This shall make me look nice and pretty for tomorrow.” A cruel grin appeared on the face of the chief as he imagined the impact his latest scar would have on the council tomorrow.

The larger griffin took a step away from his dangerous boss. He nodded respectfully as he sat at his place once more. “I never said a thing. Continue, chief.”

“I think I’ve told you all enough for one night. You lot know what you need to.” The leader’s face hardened as he hid bad mood from sight. “Final question... Who art with me?”

Squarks of support and approval rang out across the dungeon like room. The Chief smiled, delighted that all his followers were still so readily on his side. “And now... I shalt see thee all tomorrow at noon.” The only griffin who wore a suit then turned stalked moodily out as blood leaked down his face and onto his pristine black suit.

Mighty Wing, Chief Grandeur’s mansion

Gilda walked along the passageways of her home, alone. She was tired from playing messenger and her legs had a dull ache in them from all the walking in confined areas. Claws clacked against the solid stone as she made her way up toward her father’s study. The passageway was poorly lit, only by the occasional candle. After all, this section of the house was off limits after dark. Between the darkness and the rugged hallway, a hostile atmosphere hung in the air. It was as if the walls themselves were telling Gilda to turn back for fear of death. While the sense would scare many creatures away, this young griffin was on a mission and she was determined to see it through.

The young griffin soon reached her destination. She carefully pried open the door. “Where are you....?” she muttered, unwilling to be kept out from her father’s room and true plans for much longer.

Sure enough, the intimidating office was deserted, just as it should be at such a time. Given his workaholic ways, he was definitely still at the underground headquarters, a place no normal griffin would ever dream of venturing to. Gilda had no idea how long the meeting would take or what kind of information her dad would hide from her upon his return. The cool youngster sighed and quickly moved over to a few filing cabinets behind her father’s desk. She rifled though several, muttering to herself about papers.

One file in particular, which she had to wonder why it wasn’t stored in a secret place, labeled GRIFFIN COUNCIL, GO DIE, she pulled out.

“Same old Dad. Secretive, impossible to nail down... but... I know how your mind works...” she smirked, flicking through the contents.

The papers inside consisted of information regarding, as she discovered, the treaty between the Griffins and the rest of Equestria itself.

“Wait... There’s a treaty like this?” She questioned out loud. “I thought that was just some dumb story dad fed me when I was a chick to make me go into dweeb land...”

The youngster pulled out the first paper to better read it.

I, Princess Celestia, hereby grant the tribes of Griffins under the rule of the council of 8, the liberty to settle within a place of their choosing. Under the conditions that no harm is to come to any of my subjects.

Provided that your subjects do not cause ponykind harm of any sort, the Griffins are within the right to live just as peacefully and to be afforded the same rights and responsibilities as all ponies in Equestria are.

In turn, I hereby grant that my subjects will be informed of your kind and still feel free to interact. All creatures big and small have the right to live within peace and harmony together. It is what I encourage, but whether you choose this alliance will be up to you and my subjects, so long as no harm is brought to either kind.

At best, a civil alliance shall be formed, in which the Griffins are free to enroll within schools and various careers across Equestria to compliment your own culture. Should there be any matters that are in need of discussion or reform, know that I always hold a court every day, and will be glad to sit down and renegotiate if needed.

Signed, Princess Celestia.

Gilda looked over the treaty, wondering what else there could be to it. That was when she saw the other half of the compromise, this one written by her ancestor, one of the first chiefs of the tribe. The parchment was ancient and clearly had a spell upon it to ease the passage of years. It shimmered in an odd surreal way in the candle light appearing as if near new, yet at the same time appeared to be well over a thousand years old.

I, Chief Warbeak the second, hereby grant the ponies of Equestria the liberty to settle within any domain of their choosing. It may be within your own territories or within the lands of the griffin tribes. As long as no griffin comes to harm, we shall not raise a talion in war. You may not, however, settle within the land of the chiefs as that is the griffin citadel and no other creature is allowed access.

A civil alliance can and will be formulated, in which all eight tribes will freely adhere to.

All ponies within our lands must obey our laws through and through. Laws of our kind have been enclosed within this document, so that they may educate themselves of our laws and our kind. These laws include but are not limited to; the bearing of weapons, interspecies breeding or marriage between a griffin and pony, marriage between two males or two females, all of which being prohibited. Any sort of violation of these laws or any of our other tribal specific laws within our lands will of course result in the Death Penalty. Our kind have but many traditions and customs to adhere, and we do not cross such lines.

If any matters arise in the future, there is court held, every Wednesday. Any issues will be dealt with quickly and effectively, as is our way of life. If you do not bring your issues to our court, do not expect us to lift a wing.

Signed, Chief Warbeak the second, representative and lord of the council of 8.

Gilda stared at the section in shock. No such treaty was taught at any of the schools in the griffin tribes. Aside from the odd mention by her father of an ancient treaty that was supposed to bring a false peace between all species in and around Equestria, nothing had ever been mentioned. She smiled.

“Why would they hide this, I wonder...” she mused.

She carefully repacked the treaty and placed it away in its place. As she was about to shut the draw she spotted something else of interest to her keen eyes. She always had known her father must be hiding something. But this was beginning to appear as if she had just walked in on his treasure trove. She pulled out the second sheet.

This was a rather torn piece of paper. The scrawling upon it was clearly her father’s claw.

The treaty is still in place, we should be able to get scouts into the royal city.  In turn they-

The rest was cut off on that end, which confused Gilda. She continued to read what was on there, trying to make sense of it.

…..of Chaos and S....**

...lings have agreed to be our allies fo...   ...manehatten... ...oft target...

…..he six talismans of Warbeak to unloc.....

That was it. Nothing more on either side. Everything else was either torn off by claw or somehow redacted. Gilda mulled it over, before carefully placing the paper back where she found it. ‘No wonder he was always pushing for me to find another talisman of Warbeak. Those things must have some serious power. They sound cooler than the ponies lame elements of Harmony too...’ Another search of her father’s desk drawers led to the discovery of one particular notebook. Which had a lock to it. Where the key was, she didn’t know, but knew that this had to be some top secret information all the more. Her nose could also faintly smell something. It smelt like raw meat. Of course, her father may keep an emergency stash of food up in his study. He did spend all day in here sometimes after all Gilda reasoned to herself.

Gilda shook her head, her father needed to learn to be more subtle sometimes.   Then a thought stuck the searching griffin. If her father kept all this information hidden away, maybe he kept his talismans somewhere dumb too.

With a grin, the cocky youngster began a new search. She shoved the draw closed and began hunting through the draws on her father’s work desk. The solo griffin’s claws made quick work of sifting through the rubbish and random papers that littered the insides.   After several tense moments of wondering if the items had been taken out by the Chief himself when he went off to his meeting, her thoughts were halted. Gilda’s claws scraped the bottom of the right hand draw and felt a small steel hook. With a grin, she grasped the hook and slowly forced the hidden compartment up. Inside lay a golden tail ring. It bore an inscription around the band that was impossible for the youngster to decipher. She decided it had to be something unimportant that was written in ancient griffin.

The thief smiled. Good thing no other griffin was ever bold enough to venture into this room. Her father was too easy to steal from. Gilda knew there was no way her father would punish her like he would any other invader. After all, she was his prized chick. If anything she was doing him a favour by making use of one of the talismans of Warbeak.

She was safe. Safe to ‘borrow‘ a talisman she only just had discovered.   With an excited grin, Gilda picked up the golden tail ring. “Looks like your mine now... I wonder how many more of these cool trinkets Dad has stashed around the place...”

“Hey sis!” The unexpected call made Gilda hit the roof in surprise.

The suddenly extra-paranoid griffin promptly hid the golden talisman against her underside. Her right claw clutched onto it for dear life as she glared at her younger sibling. The last thing she needed was for her loudmouth brother to tell her dad she had been snooping around the study again.

She squawked angrily at him. “Don’t ever do that to me again, pipsqueak! It’s something important here and I don’t want to get caught!”

Glen retracted, wide-eyed, “Sorry, sis... I didn’t mean to. I just saw get back from your super cool mission... you then came in here and I was wondering what awesome stuff you were doing.”

Gilda relaxed a little, maybe her brother could be persuaded to be of use to her this time instead of telling tales to their parents. “It wasn’t that great, little bro. It’s only like I got to tell Dad’s followers to meet him in the dungeon.”

“You mean they didn’t let you come too? Lame...”

“Tell me about it. Anyway...” she paused. No sounds of an incoming griffin were heard so she motioned for him to come closer.

Curious, the younger male wandered forward. The griffin who stood alert and ruffled behind the table quickly grabbed a small pack from an open draw and thrust something inside. With a disarming smile Gilda threw the pack over her hooked beak and across her back. Glen eyed the bulge with curious eyes but decided to question her later about the contents.

“If I tell you this... you are soo going to have to come with me.” Gilda told the inquisitive griffin with a face that made it clear he would be in trouble if he said something smart at this point.

“Come with you? Where?” Glen cocked his head curiously.

“Equestria. Where those idiot ponies live...”

This made the younger griffin smile. “Really?! Awesome! I’ve always wanted to see those places! And what about the Wonderbolts? Can we see them too? I’ve always wanted to go to Cloudsdale! From what you said about it, it sounds really cool! Wow!”

“No Glen. We won’t be going anywhere cool. It will not be a vacation for you to sit there and preen your fancy wings.” She snapped. “I’m going to do what our old featherbag is now too old to do.”

“...But sis...why?” Glen asked softly, looking very disappointed. “I don’t understand why no one likes ponies. I mean....I never met any, but I read a lot of stories and they sound really nice. I want to see these places, sis! I want to meet ponies!”

“That’s because they are naive. The dweebs don’t even know what’s cool anymore.”

Glen bit his beak, looking uncertain, “...What are you going to do, sis?”

“By the looks of what I’ve found so far... It looks like we need to start a war, those old geezers are being too slow.” She turned turned her attention away from the shocked younger griffin to quickly shut the secret compartment and close the gaping draws. She decided that for now, one 'borrowed' talisman would be enough, she just had to get out now before her father returned and asked questions.

Glen didn’t respond; he only looked down at his claws, trembling a bit. He’d heard war stories from his father and grandfather, but didn’t like the sound of conflict at all. “I don’t know, sis...that’s scary and...I...I just don’t know about that. Why do we have to go to war? Nothing wrong happened.”

“Pssh... don’t be a pushover, little bro. If you continue like that, the ponies will win. That Celestia is a real troll, don’t ever trust her.” Gila replied as she strolled around from behind the desk.

“Oh... okay...” Glen continued to look uncomfortable.

“Look, if you’re not going to be of any help then beat it. Our dad is about to claim lordship over all the tribes. From what I’ve managed to find, our chiefs have been hiding stuff that could be really uncool for the normal griffins to see. ...And when dad takes over, we all know what he wants to do. You’re a cool brother and all but I have something I need to do.” Her face lit with cruel joy. “I know exactly where I’m going too now. Thank you dad. I will now do you proud.”

“Okay...” He turned to leave, saddened by his sisters resolve to leave.

Suddenly something stopped him. “You know what, if you don’t want to come... it’s okay.” His annoyed sister looked at him with the familiar expression of harsh kindness he knew he would miss if she went on yet another mission without him.

The older griffin continued, knowing she once again had the full attention of her brother. “Although, I guess that since I do now know of the location of the first assault, I could take my cool bro on a quick tour,” she grinned at him.

Her words turned his world around. “Yes please, sis!” He gave her a big hug.

Gilda brushed her energetic younger brother off laughing.

“Hey, it’s no biggie. Now come on, I don’t need our dad catching us.”

“You got it, sis! ...Wait, you know where the first attack will be?” He stopped dead in his tracks as her information seeped in.

"Yea... I first heard one of Dad's cronies mention it a few days ago... then tonight I caught a few hints too. But I think we should still aim to get these talismans... I think a few ponies might still remember me and be wiling to help the coolest griffin ever." Gilda bragged as she strutted out.

Glen stood for a moment in thought. "So... what your saying is that you know where the attack is... but you don't know where the talismans are hidden but we still are looking for them?"

"Bingo. Together I think we can charm a few ponies into helping us." Gilda flashed her brother a smile. "After all... you do want to meet a few of those dweebs don't you?"

"I sure do! Sis, your the best!" Glen raced up to his elder sister and gave her a quick hug.

She shrugged him off and continued on her way out, a delighted swagger in her step. “And now... two of the coolest griffins ever get to find dad’s missing talismans. I’m sure they can make a super cool griffin like me even cooler and way more powerful.” She grinned as the pair continued on down the hallway together.

Both griffins were ready and eager for adventure. Gilda was becoming especially eager to get her claws on her fathers talismans. If they were as important as she was beginning to think they were, they could make her very powerful indeed. Especially as they linked to her ancient ancestor who had led the war on ponykind. After all, a cool griffin like herself could have a lot of fun with her family’s long lost power. Maybe she could even steal the glory of leading the first assault if she found more of the talismans of Warbeak.

Chapter fourteen: Griffon at the Gate Part 1

Chapter Fourteen: Dreams

Canterlot Hospital wing

Twilight slowly entered the room. The first thing she noticed, beside the yellow pegasus and her blue lover, was the fact that they were not alone in the room.

The Canterlot Palace hospital ward had a light blue dividing curtain on either side of the pegasus ponies bed indicating there were other occupants in the room. The whole room held a sterile feel with a light scent of roses in the air. Past the left curtain lay a white stallion who appeared to be one of the Canterlot royal guard. On the other side of Rainbow’s bed, an older unicorn couple slept together. From the fine gold and blue garments the white mare wore, it was clear they were both very rich ponies. The stallion held his mare’s hoof lightly as they lay side by side on the double hospital bed. Twilight smiled warmly at them before turning her gaze to the pegasi before her.

Rainbow Dash was still hooked up to life support, her fillyfriend sat on a comfy chair by her bedside. The buttery mare held one of Dash’s hooves, laying her forehead against it, sniffling. When she heard the door open, Fluttershy turned her head slightly to see Twilight there.

“Oh... Hello Twilight.” Fluttershy greeted her friend without leaving the life support of her lover’s hoof.

“Hey, Fluttershy...” Twilight slowly approached, as if getting too close would upset everything. “Um...well, I guess I don’t really need to ask. But, how are things here?”

“Well... Rainbow’s doing... well. I just hope she gets better soon. It hurts to see her like this. But I could never leave her side.” The shy pony turned her gaze back upon the messed up mare on the bed.

Looking over at her comatose friend, Twilight couldn’t help but agree with her. At the same time, Rainbow did look peaceful, as if she were sleeping.

“I understand, Fluttershy. I’m not asking you to. But I hope you’ll get some sleep and eat, since you do need to take care of yourself, as well.” Twilight advised.

“Oh... I will,” Fluttershy murmured absently, nodding a bit.

Twilight bit her lip and wondered how to approach the matter delicately, at least enough that Fluttershy would be willing to talk about it. She wanted to know the details, but could see it would likely be hard, given how traumatized Fluttershy had been over the past twenty-four hours or so.

“...Fluttershy, can I ask you something?”

“...Yes...” Came the soft murmured reply.

“Well,” Twilight cleared her throat. “Earlier yesterday, what happened? With the griffin attack, I mean. You were a little vague about the details. And, ...okay, if you don’t want to talk about it, I understand. I just want to get the facts about it and all.”

“Oh... no... It’s okay... I can tell you, if you like...?” Fluttershy offered, shyly.

“Yes please,” Twilight sat herself down upon the floor at the bedside.

The apprehensive pegasus took a deep breath before opening up. “Well... Rainbow and I found a griffin when we were out and about... then... then... he started asking us questions about some kind of relic an-and he was being all mean... and calling us rude names. Then he attacked Rainbow...” Tears started to well up in the yellow mare’s eyes, but she forced herself to continue. “Then... then... Rainbow fought to defend us but got overpowered. Th-the guards... they couldn’t do a thing to save her... it was awful.” As she staggered to the end of her sentence, the moisture in her eyes began to escape and she once again began to unwittingly wet the cyan hoof she held onto.

“...I’m so sorry...” Twilight murmured, bowing her head. “...Do you know what the griffin wanted?”

But it was almost as if the distraught mare wasn't listening. “I-I came that close to losing her Twilight! She could be... d-dead...” The yellow pegasus continued to cry into the hoof of the comatose guardian whom she loved.

Deciding to try again in a better moment, Twilight took the time to comfort Fluttershy by rubbing her back. “It’s okay, Fluttershy... Don’t worry about that. She’s safe now, and that’s what matters. You’re both safe.”

After a few moments the wall of tears began to recede and they crying mare sniffed a couple of times. “I-I guess...yes...But what kind of meanie goes around attacking ponies?” She nuzzled her lovers foreleg despondently.

“It’s hard to say. But the princess said some things earlier regarding the griffins. Something about looking for their version of the elements of harmony.”

“Oh... well that might be what he wanted then...” murmured the shy pegasus, unable to meet the scholar's eyes.

“And the rest of the girls and I will be headed out in a few days time to try and find one of these griffin elements,” added Twilight uncertainly, hoping that her friend wouldn’t think they were abandoning them in their time of need. “The princess knows where some of them are and she says the first griffin element is close enough for us to make it back in time for Rainbow Dash’s recovery.”

At the mention of her loved one’s rehabilitation, Fluttershy blighted considerably. “So... t-the princess is sure she will be better soon?” The hopeful tone of the quiet mare hung in the air, it added light to the otherwise sad mood.

“She doesn’t want to give false hope, but we are all sure Rainbow Dash will get better. The girls and I will even come round tomorrow to visit you and Dash.”

“Oh thank you Twilight!” Fluttershy threw herself into a thankful hug with the purple unicorn who after a moments shock, hugged back. “It was so nice having somepony to talk to... I-I... look forward to seeing the rest of the girls again tomorrow.” Fluttershy withdrew and turned back to her fillyfriend. “But now I should tend to my special somepony... she needs me you see...” The shy pegasus tenderly licked the bedridden pony’s cheek.

Twilight nodded then stood up. The sombre mood had returned to the room and this time she had no idea what to do about it. “All right. I’ll leave you two alone.” She turned to Rainbow. “Hey, Rainbow Dash... I hope you’re okay. I have to say, you did a brave thing defending Fluttershy like that, against a griffin no less. Your efforts weren’t in vain either. She’s completely safe. So, I have to thank you for that. We’re all here right now, Rainbow, and we’ll see you later.” She placed a comforting hoof on the downed pony before turning to the mare at her side for one last check.

“Yes... my brave, pretty rainbow...” Fluttershy cooed softly as if the comatose pony could hear her.

“....You really do love her, don’t you?” Twilight said softly, her gaze drifted to the blue guardian meaningfully.

“Oh yes... I’ve known it for a long time now... and I’ve always loved her.” Fluttershy gently stroked the messed up multi-coloured mane, trying to caress it back into shape on the hospital bed.

The unicorn smiled. “I think Rainbows going to be overjoyed to wake up and see you.”

“Mmmmmm...” Fluttershy agreed as she nuzzled into her loved one’s forehoof, settling down to rest once more.

Twilight observed the cute scene for a moment, and then quietly moved to the doorway; ready to leave. As the scholar stood there drinking everything in, she noticed the older couple once again. The stallion waved at Twilight, happy to see another pony who wasn’t part of the medical staff. He then turned back to his own special somepony and just like Fluttershy, began to tend silently her.

The lavender mare turned and slowly began to make her way back to the rest of her friends. She walked along slowly, deep in thought. Rainbow Dash was certainly a lucky mare, Fluttershy seemed to show even more devotion toward her than Spike did with Rarity. Thinking of said young dragon... He almost appeared to be getting closer to the mare recently. The thought put a smile upon her face, if he finally did finally go out with her then at least that that would stop the continual stream of questions she faced each day.

It was interesting, to be in love with somepony. Twilight couldn’t help but feel amazed that two of her closest friends, who were best friends themselves, actually found love in one another. All her life, she hadn’t expected to think about love, or even friendship for that matter. But now, it was all coming to her, all kinds of friendship, and now love too.

Love...

With that one word and all the confusion that accompanied it, Twilight walked along. She allowed her legs to carry her as she lost herself in thought.

Pinkie Pie walked across her thoughts, and she wondered what it would be like waking up next to the spastic mare each day. Then she thought of Luna. Her warm comforting wings and calming presence. The princess was also one of the few ponies who happily studied with her! It would be amazing to have a special somepony. Twilight paused in thought, it was strange, but she realized she didn’t know which she personally prefered, stallion or mare. The scholar decided further study was required on the topic before anything radical could occur in her life.

She continued on her way, humming a tune to herself to try and lift her own spirits.

Twilight suddenly stopped. She realized she had nearly walked into a set of doors. Given that they were darkly coloured and had a stone carving of the moon engraved, she knew it had to be Luna’s room. The door opened, revealing the alicorn herself.

“Greetings, Twilight. Can we assist thee with something?” The princess asked.

Twilight froze under the gaze of the royal pony, she fought to come up with something to say that would explain her sudden appearance. “Um... well... I was kind of just wandering around and thinking about things. And I happened to see your...um...study...”

The princess smiled at her. “Then we wonder... what is on thy mind?”

“....Luna...well,” Twilight began, looking away. “I wanted to ask you something. You and Princess Celestia... It’s something I never really thought of, but now, well, I guess I can’t help but really want to know more about it.”

“Ah, well, come in, then,” Luna went back into her study, motioning for the unicorn to follow her.

Twilight did so, following the night princess into the room. The door was closed gently behind her by Luna’s magic. Taking a moment, Twilight took in her surroundings. Although adorned with dark tiles and a fairly dark ceiling, the room was well lit by two ornate windows. A desk sat by one of the windows, and a comfortable looking two pony couch lay near it. Two walls housed bookshelves filled to the rim with books and other little knick knacks.

“Tell us, then. What is on thy mind?”

“...Princess....have you...well...I mean, what’s love?” Twilight silently cringed at how bad she must have sounded.

“Well...” The royal alicorn hesitated, as if unsure how best to answer. “It is quite hard to say, Twilight Sparkle. Love is surely a driving force in the world that even the wisest of ponies cannot comprehend. All that we know is that we will know of it upon feeling it. Truly feeling it. There is also the matter of there being all kinds of different sorts of love. Love for thy friends, thy family, thy romantic partner, thy pets....it goes on. Love is a great mystery, and it has no rules. It is impetuous. We cannot help how we feel, nor may we choose who our heart desires. Nopony can. That comes the true mystery. Who we love.”

“Right... Is there anyway to research and find out what the feelings mean?” Twilight asked hopefully.

Luna smiled warmly at her. “Are thou attempting to hint that they might be in love with somepony?”

“W-What?!” Twilight squeaked, her eyes wide and cheeks flushed. “N-No! No! Not me! I just...well, I see the way Spike has a crush on Rarity... and... well, the way Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy love each other.”

“And thy has come to ask about finding love for thyself?” The princess asked softly, almost hopefully.

“I...” The unicorn looked away a bit, “I just want to research it more. To understand it better. That’s... what I want to do, really. I mean, friendship is something I’m understanding a lot more, and I enjoy it so much. I love my friends. ...And well, maybe one day, if I do fall in love...I want to have a better knowledge of it.”

The hopeful expression rapidly faded from the midnight blue alicorns face. “Oh. Well... if that is all you seek then we guess we... could attempt to help.”

“....What about you, Princess? Are...you in love? Or...were you ever in love?” Twilight dared ask, “I mean, if that’s something you want to try to talk about.”

Luna felt like she should just give up on Twilight then and there. ‘To think thou missed all of the hints we gave thee!’ she inwardly groaned. But, maybe it was worth one last try. “Well we think that we may be feeling something for one mare. But love is a hard thing for us to find... so few ponies are as long lived as the royal alicorns.” She turned away, sadly.

Thinking of that for a moment, Twilight couldn’t help but feel bad for her and Celestia then. It had never occurred to her, at least not like this. It was almost the same as making friends while you were immortal. Your life would go on, endlessly, while those you were once close to would eventually pass on. You would remember them. Or, one day, if you were around long enough, maybe forget them. She could imagine it must not have been easy if they ever did or would fall in love.

“That makes sense. I think anypony in your position wouldn’t be too willing for that...” Twilight murmured, looking over at the midnight blue alicorn. “But who was it that Princess Celestia took as her coltfriend? She doesn’t seem like the type for romance...”

Luna smiled as if remembering a sour memory. “We think it’s best if you talk to her. She used to be... rather proud of her coltfriend. Not that we think he was much of a colt... Or a pony for that matter.” The night mare scoffed, nearly laughing at her own bad sense of humour over the matter.

“Okay... I guess I can do that. I guess I can see her again later...” Twilight paused in thought as a slow grin spread across her muzzle. “So... who is this mare?”

The midnight princess didn’t turn to meet the inquiring mare’s gaze. “We...I...” Luna trailed off, silently battling herself. “She is a unique pony... one with whom I would gladly spend a lifetime to get to know. ...Thou aren’t shocked that it is a mare I seek?” She asked softly, turning to the smaller pony with a questioning look in her eyes.

“No, not really,” Twilight smiled. “I guess, well, I didn’t see it coming... But I think after seeing Rainbow and Fluttershy together... believe me, they can be pretty affectionate. Especially when they think they are alone... and pegasus wings can be a dead giveaway sometimes. It kind of just got me used to it. Before that, I didn’t even think about love, so it makes no difference to me.” Twilight couldn’t help but feel that the princess’s earlier actions toward her had something to do with the princess’s preference of mares. Not that she had any idea how to ask and not wind up looking terribly silly.

Luna looked rather relieved at the confession. A hopeful spark returned to her eyes, cheeky almost. “Well we did once say this mare had the most divine flank we have ever seen.”

Twilight gave a laugh, not quite catching on, “Really?”

Becoming bolder, the princess smiled kindly across at the mare of her affections. “Yes... She was even there at the time. We are not sure if she feels the same way though...”

“Well you-” Twilight blinked, wide-eyed as she remembered the embarrassing incident. “.....Er....Princess, I don’t want to assume, but... are you... implying that you’re...” She blushed a bit, her hoof running over a foreleg nervously.

The hot cheeked alicorn turned to face the smaller pony, her large wings fluttering softly. “Our sister has had many a laugh at our expense. She knows how oblivious her student is to... such matters of the heart.”

Twilight’s eyes grew to the size of dinner plates. “Um... I.. but Luna... I mean... are you sure? We just met yesterday... and... me? I-I’m not even that special. I’m just Twilight Sparkle. Sure, your sister is my teacher, but... still I... I don’t know what to say...”

“Thou art the most amazing mare we have ever met...” Luna’s voice became soft as she continued nervously. “But we understand if thou is unable to reciprocate such feelings.”

“...It’s not that, it’s just that I don’t know, really,” Twilight admitted, feeling awestruck. First Pinkie kissed her right on the mouth, and now Princess Luna herself was admitting she had feelings for her. What was she to do? To say?

“Tis okay if thou requires time to decide for thyself.” Luna turned, using a wing to hide her embarrassment.

A small, grateful smile overcame Twilight’s lips. “Thanks, Luna... It’s not that I’m not flattered, because... well... I am. I-I’d rather give you an answer when I know how I feel for sure. I think you at least deserve that much.”

“Thank you, Twilight Sparkle. As long as you don’t take forever, we shall be fine.” The alicorn moved toward the window and gazed out across her domain. “We didn’t mean to embarrass thou so.”

“No... it’s okay, you didn’t. I just didn’t expect it,” the unicorn replied a bit sheepishly, giggling a bit. “...I’m sorry though, I... well, I guess it’s not quite what you wanted to hear....”

“No... tis not. But such is life when my hearts desire is also pursued by another,” Luna softly replied.

“Well, I guess-wait! What? Somepony else likes me? How come I’m the last to know???” Twilight pouted.

The larger mare laughed quietly. “Because, despite having the most divine flank, your horn is always in a book Twilight...”

“Okay, you got me there...” Twilight smiled sheepishly. “...Who likes me, then? It’s... it’s not Pinkie is it?” She trailed off, uncertain of her own words.

“We... we think it is not our position in life to say. She... she... no. We shall allow thee to discover it for thyself, maybe in doing so you will discover where you heart truly lies...” Luna laid her chin upon the windowsill, sad, yet contented.

“I guess that makes sense...” Twilight murmured, smiling a bit. She trotted up to the saddened alicorn and offered a quick nuzzle. “Um... but you know... I hope we can still be friends. I really do enjoy our time together and you have been so sweet looking after Fluttershy and me. It was also nice having a study partner.”

“We would love that, yes...” Luna placed a wing over the smaller pony in reply to her actions.

Twilight smiled more, feeling at peace yet again, even in these tough times. “Sounds great, Princess...”

“Thank you, Twilight. We bid thee goodbye.” The dark wing slumped from the smaller mare’s back falling to the alicorn’s side.

Taking it as a cue to leave, Twilight headed to the door, she opened it with her magic. The powerful young unicorn turned to glance at her new friend once more, smiled, then quietly exited.

“Where have you been Twi-Twi!?!” Pinkie almost blew up from the all the pent up tension inside.

This was what greeted Twilight when she entered the lounge one level downstairs in the palace, where her friends were waiting. The unicorn blinked, wondering what Pinkie was upset about... only to realize exactly what she meant.

“Sorry, Pinkie.... everypony... But after I spoke with Fluttershy, I was walking around a little, and I went to talk with Princess Luna since I passed her study,” Twilight explained sheepishly.

A look of comic horror passed the party pony’s face. “Oh no. Did Nightmare Moon try and attack you?” Pinkie threw her forehooves up in mock horror.

“Attack me-...Pinkie, what are you talking about? Princess Luna isn’t Nightmare Moon! You saw her earlier today and during breakfast! You even spoke with her!” Twilight exclaimed, really not in the mood for the Nightmare Moon jokes. “I’m fine, Pinkie... I was just talking with her, that’s all.”

“Ah think that our friend Pinkie here was just feelin’ a little antsy ‘bout somethin’,” Applejack laughed. she knew exactly where the pink party pony’s issues were coming from and why she was acting even stranger than normal.

Twilight glanced from Applejack to the pink party pony, “Oh, okay... What’s wrong, Pinkie? Are you okay?”

“As long as the mean old Nightmare Moon didn’t try and take my Twilight... I’ll be okay.” Pinkie’s mane and tail poofed up, exemplifying her energetic stance.

Twilight sighed and shook her head, “It’s not going to happen, Pinkie. Don’t worry about that.”

Pinkie smiled, giving her a hug and nuzzling her neck. Twilight blushed a bit, but hugged her in return, if even just to further assure her. She had to admit, Pinkie’s cuddly, bouncy ways were appealing to her and she found herself enjoying the contact more with each nuzzle Pinkie Pie offered.

“Come.” Pinkie bounded over to a spot opposite the snuggling Rarity and Spike. “Snugglies!”

Twilight rose an eyebrow, but shrugged before she walked over to sit with her friend. Almost immediately upon doing so, Pinkie brought her forelegs around the studious unicorn, snuggling her close before she kissed her on the nose. The unicorn blushed, but Pinkie grinned widely.

“Don’t you worry, my Twilight, we’re all right here! And I’m here, too, of course!”

“T-thanks Pinkie. I gotta say though... you’re being very cuddly all of a sudden.” Twilight stuttered as an unwanted wave of heat crossed her muzzle.

“Hee hee! What can I say? They don’t call me Pinkie Cuddly Wuddly Pie for nothing!”

“Darling... we don’t call you that...” Rarity pointed out in a bit of a deadpan manner.

“Don’t mind her, Twilight, at this rate the super duper Pinkie Pie will be known as Pinkie Cuddly Wuddly Pie in no time!”

A small smile cracked at Twilight’s lips, “I definitely don’t doubt that...”

Beep. Beep. Beep. Beep. Beep. Beep.

The monotonous beeping of the heart rate monitor droned on repeatedly. The dull, annoying noise barely reached Fluttershy’s ears. Being one of the few sounds in the room, it sounded too loud, yet too soft all at once. The only other sounds were of five ponies breathing. The soft gurgle of her tummy sounded, thankful that she chose to eat lunch an hour ago. Twilight’s visit already felt like it happened days ago.

Fluttershy held her beloved’s hoof in both of hers’, afraid to even let go for a second. It was getting harder and harder to look upon her lover’s comatose form, her eyes closed, as if threatening to never open again. Everything in the room felt like it was reaching out and mocking her. Even the ponies who lay peacefully in their own beds added to the horrible feeling of seeping doom.

‘No... I shouldn’t think that. Everything here is meant to help her, and she would probably be dead if not for them.’ Fluttershy battled against her doubts.

She heard the stallion across from her murmur to his posh fillyfriend. Fluttershy’s unfocused mind failed to comprehend what was being said, yet she felt they were words of hope to his loved one. She glanced across at the couple and realised that the nurse must have opened the curtain between them after lunch. She could see white interlocked with grey as he tenderly held his lover’s hoof. She smiled at the ray of hope they held between them. Her grip tightened on her own special somepony. She had to keep her own ray of hope for the pegasus she held most dear to her heart.

As the stallion began to murmur to his partner once more, Fluttershy decided to try the same tactic on her special guardian. She turned to gaze down at the cyan beauty on the hospital bed. Even like this, comatose and dead to the world, Rainbow Dash took her breath away.

With a shaky, uncertain voice Fluttershy spoke to the pony she wished to see awaken. “Rainbow... I-I know you can’t hear me, but I have to say...” The timid mare took a deep steadying breath, she could feel small volumes of strength returning to her system with every word to her lover.

It was that strength, that hope that helped her onwards. “I think I feel better talking to you. Even if... even if you don’t answer me back. But that’s okay. I suppose... there is a part of me that hopes, somewhere in there, you know I’m here. It does help. I wish you could answer me back...” She pouted, her voice soft and sombre.

Fluttershy let out a tiny sigh that may as well have come from a mouse and glanced around at the curtain across from her on the left side of Rainbow Dash’s bed. She had only recently realized that one of the guards who had helped them, lay in the bed there. While she knew thanks were in order once every ponies’ condition improved, for now Fluttershy wished to stick by her loved one. He was thankfully protected by the false wall that hung from the ceiling. That curtain kept her from seeing what sort of injuries had caused him to wind up in such a room. She turned to the right side of Rainbow Dash’s bed, twisting around in her seat to better view of the older couple who lay together on a double hospital bed.

While their curtain was currently pulled back to reveal them, Fluttershy was sure the doctor had done so for a reason. Since they now appeared to be sleeping, she turned back to face her lover, encouraged that nopony save her mare had a chance of hearing her words.

“It’ll be okay, Dashie. I just hope you wake up. If... if you never do... I’ll always love you, my pretty rainbow... No pony can replace you. Though our blossomed relationship was short-lived, i-it was amazing. These past few weeks...” Tears of sincerity ran down the creamy yellow mare’s face as she gazed upon her beloved. “…These past few weeks have been by far the best of my life. And it was because of you Dashie… Oh, I can’t even begin to tell you how happy I have been... how we had been able to come together in love. I only wish I told you sooner... But I suppose better late than never, right? Our first night together, making love, oh... I’ll never forget it. Ever. They say you never forget your first time, your first love, your first kiss...  And I know I never will.” She smiled through the pain she felt inside. She had to be brave, for herself and for Rainbow Dash.

“That’s soo sweet…” murmured the stallion behind her.

Fluttershy jumped in surprise to face the bed where the unicorn couple lay. She could not believe he had just heard the words intended for Rainbow’s ears only.

From his partner’s side, the grey stallion continued, a grim smiled upon his muzzle. “Don’t worry young mare… it’s all safe with me. Just keep talking to her. I’m sure she can hear you.” His gaze fell upon his own mare. “Just like I know Crystal Showers here can hear me.”

“Oh…” The shy pegasus turned away, a strong blush coated her face. ‘Next time I have to leave out the part about us having sex. I don’t know what I’d do if any pony else heard.’ She knew it would be polite to respond to the stranger, but her nerves prevented her mouth from working.

Silence reigned.

“I-it’s nice to meet you sir… my name’s Fluttershy.” A high pitched squeak escaped and she hid behind her mane. One eye peeked out across at the stallion who continued to hold his mare’s hoof.

“I can see why,” chuckled the stallion. “I’m Greymane. Pleased to meet you.” His gaze fell to the unicorn he held. “Both my wife and I are in because of certain health problems. Excuse me, but I probably should try and get some rest.”

“Oh… Okay.” Fluttershy quietly replied. She turned to once again face her special somepony.

A yellow hoof idly played with multi-coloured locks of the speedster’s mane. They spiralled slowly down till they reached her tummy. Fluttershy sighed and nuzzled her guardian. She was so warm, so inviting. If only it were a double bed, then she could lay with her special pegasus.

She heard the sound of lips meeting muzzle as the stallion kissed his wife. Something inside Fluttershy cried out at the sound and without thought to her actions, she stood. The timid pegasus slowly, carefully hovered in the air. She could feel her wings cry out in joy! It felt rather wonderful to be airborne again, even if in confined spaces. With determination written all over her muzzle, Fluttershy manuvered herself till she hovered over Rainbow Dash.

Bedsprings creaked and legs were jarred as Fluttershy landed ungainly upon the bed straddling her loved one. A delighted smile lit her face. It might not be a bed designed for two, but she was confident she could still snuggle her lover for support. She had to do anything to make her comatose fillyfriend feel better and what better way to get through to the highly physical pony than more physical contact. She slipped into the sheets, spooning her lover and slid a wing over the side of the sleeping pegasus. Now she was comfortable and hoped that inside, Dash would be too.

In the hospital ward the slow beeping of the life support machine rang out in the otherwise silent room.

Beep. Beep. Beep. Beep. Beep. Beep.

“Rainbow....wake up…” Fluttershy’s plea escaped her lips, badly audible.

“Rainbow....wake up...”

“Five more minutes….” mumbled the speedster to herself, unwilling to open her eyes.

But it was for naught, since Rainbow Dash woke up moments later. Her eyes fluttered open. For a brief moment, she was taken off guard when she saw where she was. Where was she? It took a moment to register, but she felt her body relax. It was only Fluttershy’s cottage. Their cottage. Their home. Their bedroom.

Next to her in bed, Fluttershy beamed happily with a bright smile. “Hello, my love...”

With a delighted chuckle, Dash leaned over and kissed the beautiful pegasus on the nose. “Morning, sunshine.”

Fluttershy giggled before wriggling out of bed. She headed over to her dresser to brush her mane in front of the mirror. Rainbow sat up in bed, watching with admiring eyes. Little sweet moments like this in the morning were always such heartwarming gold. The cyan pegasus extracted herself out of bed as well and trotted over to join her love. She patiently watched as the shy pegasus continued to brush her mane.

An idea sparked in her mind. She took the brush from Fluttershy, motioned for her to sit, then continued the job of brushing her mane. Of course she added a little Rainbow Dash flare to the mix as she worked... but that was all part of the fun. Fluttershy giggled and leaned back against her. The sweet action quickly escalted into snuggles between the two despite the efforts to get her mane brushed.

Afterward, Fluttershy carefully picked up a piece of jewellery from the dresser and placed it around Rainbow’s neck. A pendant on a strong but loose-fitting chain. Rainbow grinned, doing the same by taking a similar piece and placing it around Fluttershy’s neck. Pendants of each other’s cutie marks; with Fluttershy wearing the pendant of the powerful rainbow lightning bolt striking from a cloud while Rainbow wore the pendant of the three pink butterflies.

Both mares shared a nuzzle. The warm fuzzes erupted around them. They warmed the room and brought joy to their hearts. The lovers shared a sweet kiss, pouring their love for each other into the simple, enjoyable action. With smiles on their faces, they turned to gaze at a framed photograph sitting on the dresser. A wedding photo.

“Mom! Mommy! Yay!” A yellow coated, rainbow maned filly barrelled around the corner. She quickly collided with her parents in a ball of rainbow and sunny yellow at their hooves.

“Good morning, Spectra.” Fluttershy helped her filly up and into a family hug.

“You’re acting just like me there squirt. Just try not to crash into everything next time.” Dash giggled as her daughter nuzzled her.

“Mommy’s right… slow down before you hurt yourself, sweetie,” Fluttershy gently chided.

“Oh come on! But Scootaloo taught me a cool trick!” Spectra pouted.

“You bet I did!” Scootaloo entered the parents bedroom as well, a broad grin upon her muzzle.

Dash chuckled, she looked from her adopted daughter/sister to their own filly, “Really now? Would you care to share it with the class later after I get back from work?”

“Yes!” Spectra nuzzled her parents before wriggling away. “C’mon, Scoots! Time for school!”

“Not until after we eat!” The orange pegasus reminded her.

“Well,” Fluttershy smiled at her family before she headed to the stairs, “Then I suppose that means duty calls. Let’s get you all some breakfast.”

An excited Spectra chased after the motherly mare, full of hearty giggles and wearing a cheeky grin. Scootaloo watched after them, turning back to Rainbow Dash.

“Any cool tours with the Wonderbolts coming up, Rainbow Dash?” She asked hopefully.

Rainbow paused, for some reason she could not remember anything about her next tour with the Wonderbolts. In fact, a lot of things, though present in her life and mind, seemed to be a strange mystery she couldn’t piece together. But it was probably nothing, anyway, just overthinking everything. The question at hoof regarded her lifelong idols, the Wonderbolts. The cyan pegasus still kept a poster of her group on the center wall of the bedroom.

“Nah. Nothing I can think of. Just weather jobs for now for me.” Dash smiled. “I’ve got a family now, and I’m not about to leave my friends or my family hanging! Besides, I’ve had my run going out far and wide. There should be something coming up close to home soon… I’ll need to check.”

The young pegasus looked downcast for a moment before recovering. “Does that mean you’ll get time off to show me all your cool tricks so that I’ll get to be a Wonderbolt one day too?”

“You know it, squirt,” Dash chuckled and ruffled her mane, still calling the youngster the affectionate silly name.

Scootaloo smiled brightly, “Awesome!” she exclaimed and rushed downstairs to join her adopted sister and mother for breakfast.

Before following, Rainbow Dash took one last glance at the Wonderbolts poster, to which she herself was a centerpiece on. The picture had been taken when she was the captain of the Wonderbolts. The leader on all their travels and the most amazing pegasus on the team. In those days, both Fluttershy and herself traveled around together, so as not to be separated for too long. Dash knew it hadn’t been easy for Fluttershy to have left her home and animals behind, but was she willing to endure it. The shy pegasus had even met all manor of creatures on their travels, some of whom lived near the cottage now.

Eventually they married and for a time, remained traveling with the Wonderbolts as one of their full time show ponies. Life on the road remained exciting as before, but Fluttershy’s wish to return home to their previous way of life quickly became harder to ignore for the now married Dash.

Fluttershy had been wishing to settle down and begin a family. Dash had been initially unsure, considering her position of power. But the captain of the Wonderbolts soon realized just how important a slow-paced and simple life was to her wife. The couple both agreed for Fluttershy to stay behind at their home while Dash traveled for one last tour abroad with the Wonderbolts.

Dash’s eyes turned to a smaller poster the hung over the bed. This one showed a small group of show ponies. This was the group Rainbow Dash had elected to lead for local shows. A system that allowed her to continue to live the dream of being a part of the Wonderbolts and stay with Fluttershy. On some occasions, the whole family would accompany Dash to her shows closer to home. As such gigs could hardly cover the cost of a family, the part time Wonderbolt chose to become Ponyville’s resistant weather pony once more.

Now, she had a new dream.

Dash smiled, feeling a sense of warmth overcome her heart at memories she held. But something was off, something deep and elusive. The proud pegasus shook the strange feeling off as nothing. She flew downstairs and joined her family for breakfast.

Scootaloo and Spectra were ready for school as they eagerly stood at the front door with their saddlebags, they waited impatiently for their mother to bring them their lunches. Fluttershy did so, handing them each a paper bag.

“Goodbye you two, have a nice day at school,” Fluttershy smiled, kissing their foreheads.

“We will, Mommy!” Spectra giggled.

“See you, Fluttershy!” Scootaloo waved, leading her little charge out the door.

Rainbow Dash moved to the door next, with her own saddlebags as she prepared to depart for another day of weather duties.

“Have a good day, my love,” Fluttershy cooed sweetly, offering a nuzzle.

Grinning, Dash swept Fluttershy into an intimate embrace and gave her a loving, searing kiss. Fluttershy squeaked in surprise, but was eventually kissing her back vigorously. They parted, looking to each other with flushed, half-lidded smiles, remaining close to one another.

“Come home for lunch, Dashie,” Fluttershy whispered in a sultry tone.

A suggestive smirk overcame Dash’s features as she licked her wife’s lips, “You read my mind, Flutters. Think... you might want to throw a little bit of that cute lingerie you have?”

“Hee, of course.” The shy pony didn’t even try to hid the blush that now completely covered her muzzle.

They kissed once more, nuzzling each other warmly.

“Love you, Fluttershy.” Dash smiled as she headed outside onto the path. “So much.”

“And I love you too, Rainbow,” Fluttershy beamed, blushing. “I’ll see you later.”

Elated, the cyan pegasus headed out and flew off into the waiting sky. However, in doing so, she felt a very strange feeling. It was warm and loving, as if enveloping her completely in a strange familiar way. It almost felt as she were carrying her loved one with her. Her care, her love, her soul, yet she knew that the pretty yellow mare was at home waiting for her triumphant return.

The bold mare quickly completed her weather duties for the day, the strange presence helped her all the way. Cloud by cloud disappeared under precise, well practised assaults. Her clear speed was amazing. Today was truly a great day to be a pegasus! Soon she began to feel herself drawn back to the cottage she called home by the strange feeling inside.

“Time for lunch! Oh boy, I wonder what Fluttershy’s got in store!” She wondered as she flew along.

“Hush now, quiet now, it’s time to lay your sleepy head...”

Rainbow Dash almost fell out of the sky in suprise, ears perking. “Fluttershy?” She looked around, up and down, and behind her. But there was no sign of Fluttershy or anypony for that matter. “Weird...I swear I her singing... But what the hay is going on?! Fluttershy’s at home and I’m pretty sure I’m not imagining it! Oh, whatever.”

She hummed and whistled, trying to get her mind off the strange occurrence from just moments ago. Nothing to worry about, anyway.

Something quick as lighting darted by, startling the speedster out of her lovestruck flying pattern.

“What the hay?!” She exclaimed, hovering like a stunned pegasus.

Another projectile rocked past her, slamming into the road below, sending shards upwards. The athletic pegasus dodged the incoming shrapnel.

“Nothing’s going to bring Rainbow Dash down that easily...” She muttered as she boldly sped off.

The ex-Wonderbolt evaded several more falling rocks, swerving out of the way with well practised ease. The strange sensation of Fluttershy never left her. It felt like the shy pegasus was snuggling her back, it was odd, but filled her with hope. Dash knew she would succeed in this new, bizarre challenge. A grin entered her face, nothing could stop this pegasus. Suddenly a new thought entered her head. ‘Fluttershy! I hope you’re alright!’ The part time Wonderbolt put on an additional burst of speed and plowed onwards through the deadly storm. She glanced up to appraise her position only for her eyes to widen in fear. The biggest hunk of rock she had ever seen was headed right for her. The flaming projectile smashed into her and she fell, pulled to the ground by its mass. ‘This is it... this is the end...’ She closed her eyes, small tears formed despite the otherworldly forces exerted upon her.

She hit the ground, her tail pinned beneath the rock. Try as she may, she couldn’t move. Her tail was caught and taut, and the rock was far too big and heavy for her to move, especially since she couldn’t adjust herself to the right angle without pulling hard on her tail. There was no way she should have survived the fall, yet somehow, here she was… still alive.

“No! No!! I have to get home to Fluttershy...! I have to help her...! Help our kids...! Uggghh, come on, tail!!” Dash yelled out, trying hard to pull her tail out, but with no success. “No!!”

All around, far and beyond, meteorites continued to fall from the sky. If not for the completely hopeless and terrifying situation, it would’ve been an amazing spectacle. Rainbow Dash could hear the screams coming from Ponyville, the air raid sirens going off, and crashes of the falling rocks in the distance. There were even mild tremors along the ground. It was clear that this wasn’t the only big rock to make an impact.

She trembled, tears in her eyes. There was nothing she could do to protect her family, who were likely terrified, especially Fluttershy, who was at home with the animals. Spectra and Scootaloo were safe at the schoolhouse, especially since they had each other for comfort. But it still didn’t help that she was trapped and somepony could get hurt, especially her friends and family.

“Rainbow… Rainbow, my dear... It’s okay...you’re going to be all right...” Fluttershy’s soft, sweet voice reached her ears.

“...Fluttershy! Fluttershy, thank Celestia you’re okay! But you shouldn’t be here! It’s dangerous!” Dash cried, looking around, but found no sign of her wife. “…Fluttershy? Fluttershy, where are you?”

“I’m here, my love… I’m here… and I won’t leave you…” Despite the bold mares cries, Fluttershy sounded like she couldn’t hear anything Dash said.

A warm comfort washed over her once more. Dash had never felt so warm and safe before. As death rained down upon the world, one pony enjoyed the safety afforded by her true love. She closed her eyes in defeat as the world around her died. Inside she could still feel Fluttershy. She held onto the feeling, made it all her mind thought of, all she existed for.

As Dash lay in the fetal position on the scorched earth, her back became warm and cosy. It felt like she was being spooned by her Fluttershy. The soft touch of yellow fur against blue, pink mane merging with all the colours of the rainbow. It felt like a wing now covered her heaving side protectively. She could hear whispers, soft as Fluttershy’s quietest pleas and sadder than the tears she cried over every animal lost.

Time passed. Dash didn’t know how long, but after a while, everything just stopped. She managed to open her eyes and looked all around. Nothing was out of place nor damaged, which was odd. What had happened? Had she just imagined Ponyville’s destruction?

“Rainbow...” The soft tone of her wife drifted as if on the breeze.

“Fluttershy? Where are you!?!” The solitary mare cried out.

“It’s okay, my sweet rainbow… I-I’m here for you... Oh, my dearest, please wake up...” Her tone was pleading, almost like she was holding back tears.

“But I am awake.” Dash responded, confused.

No response. The voice faded away, as if it were never even heard. The sense of peace however, remained.

Suddenly, the sense of peace turned cold. The whole world appeared to slowly lose its colour as on the far horizon, a winged creature appeared.

The winged pony rapidly descended with otherworldly grace and soon landed in front of the part time Wonderbolt. The sight of the mare took Dash’s breath away.

Before her stood an impossible creature. She appeared to be an alicorn, but at the same time, she was not. Dash found herself staring at the captivating eyes, unnatural orbs that glowed with mischief and power. Her right eye was a bright sunny yellow while her left was deep purple. Her head was grey and matched her glowing horn: A white tufty mane stuck out, it almost covered her yellow eye like a crazy unbrushed fringe. Past her brown ears fell a light black mane which fell like darkness upon the pure white body of the strong young mare. Her blue wings tucked themselves neatly at her sides and a sky blue tail that looked like it belonged to a draconequus twitched in the breeze. In place of a left hoof, she had a lions paw. The whole left leg was a light brown that suddenly cut off as it met her perfect white coat. Her right foreleg was deep brown and like the lion’s leg, it too retained its colour right up to the pristine, pure white coat. Her cutie mark was of clouds slowly moving to cover the sun, a sun that looked rather like the cutie mark upon Princess Celestia.

“Wha-“ Dash began, filled with awe.

The regal alicorn cut the stunned pegasus off with a wave of her forehoof.

Although her voice was cheeky and light, the message she carried was anything but.

“If I were a filly of any sort,

I’d leave Canterlot and travel forth,

for only fools seek the griffin talismans of their Lord.

Upon the pathway leading south,

This trail bring death with every pace;

Beware of dangers lurking there, both in land, sea and sky,

two paws, two claws of the feathered race.

And false ponies of black who seek thy love.

After thy home one day, seek out the zebra and his wife,

Forsake the path, continue southlands way,

Find the trail and lose thy life.

Dodge thine cities and their hay,

For upon volcanic rock thou shall make thy stay.

Meet the ones of fire for they shall show thee the way,

across land of marsh and mud.

With sense sharp and open eyes,

thou shall not sleep least

the one of yellow and pink disappear.

Where the sea meets the shore,

Rock stands sentinel evermore,

Find it as I did.

The one of magic who cannot fly,

The beast of fire who cannot roar,

Lies deep beneath the monster's mouth,

Keep him with you night and day

For there in caverns vast,

Thy final talisman is hid.”

The regal pony fell silent, her face lit up in a gleeful smile before she remembered the contents of the riddle she had just delivered. Her face quickly became sombre yet she retained the cheeky look in her eye.

Dash stood before the strange alicorn, unsure what to do or say. She felt like there was no place for her to go, or to hide. She was rooted to the spot. Before this creature, in this fading world of white all Dash could do was stare.

“Wha- who are you…?” Rainbow Dash eventually managed.

The stranger let out a giggle. “Who me?” Her horn lit up with powerful magic and she spread her wings wide. “You’ll find out… or maybe not… I don’t know yet. Mother will be soo angry…” She giggled like a naughty filly, with a mighty flap of her wings, she took off into nothingness in the sky above.

“Just remember to remember my riddle. Its so much fun…” The mysterious mostly-alicorn giggled from somewhere in the void Dash found herself in.

Darkness closed in on the speedster but as she raised her wings in a panicked attempt to flee, she felt the warm presence of her lover return like a nice blanket on a cold winters night.

“Fluttershy…” smiled Rainbow Dash, thankful that she wasn’t quite so alone anymore.